Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


A mother kangaroo stood absolutely still in the moonlit forest, watching her youngster child's play in the bushes in front of her. The mother would gently pull the roo back every metre he got too far away. She was watching him carefully when a loud pop startled her. The joey hopped back over to his mother and jumped into her pouch. They hopped away quickly, not noticing the man who had just appeared a few meters away.

The man swore under his breathing space as his face contorted. His round face was elongating and his pitch-black hair lightened to a chocolate-brown shade. He stumbled around and kicked off his shoes as his feet grew too large for them. It was not only his fundament that were growing, but his integral body. The man was now six inches taller than he had been when he first Apparated into the woods. Finally, it stopped. The man now looked completely dissimilar and kind of strange in Muggle wear that was far too little for him.

He opened his bag and pulled out a set of blackamoor thaumaturgist robe, changing into them quickly. He tossed the Muggle wear into the bag and set off at a tonic pace.

`` Bloody Muggle airplanes, '' he muttered to himself, `` Ministry ought to just allow international Flooing. ``

It was a very quietly night, with only the periodic owl hooting in the distance. The moon was not full enough to provide enough illuminate to illume the track, but the man did not want to draw tending to himself by lighting his verge. He merely stumbled along, swearing every time he tripped over a rock or a tree root.

The tall man was not entirely sure how far he would birth to walk to see the place he was looking for. In fact, the man he was going to confabulate did not even get laid he was coming. Nevertheless, he kept walking through the forest, until he finally came to the edge.

A short distance away stood a rather turgid theatre. It was not big enough to be considered a star sign, but substantially larger than near planetary house. The man glanced at his ticker before continuing towards the house.

`` shit, '' he muttered as he noticed that his watch was still set for British time. He pulled out his wand and pointed it at his wrist. The deal on the watch swirled until coming to a plosive. It was nearly midnight.

There was one lone light on in the house. early than that, the billet seemed either deserted or its occupants asleep. The man did not manage if everyone was asleep ; he would merely inflame them up. He picked up his pace as he crossed the yard and ascended the steps up to the front door.

The man knocked three metre and stood waiting for individual to let him in. A short spell later, the room access opened a gap. However, it did not appear that anyone had actually answered it.

`` Is you needing something, sir ? '' a squealing phonation asked.

The man looked down and saw a house elf peeking his nous around the door. `` Why yes, '' the man replied, `` Is Lubar in ? ``

`` schoolmaster Lubar ? '' the elf asked, `` He is. ``

`` I need to talk to him, '' the man said.

`` Come in, '' the elf replied, `` Is you wanting a drink ? ``

`` No, '' the man muttered as he entered the theater, `` Just show me to Lubar. ``

`` Yes, sir. This way. ``

The man followed the elf through the prodigal house. He always wondered how Lubar managed to yield everything. It 's not like he made much money at his job. There were statues, industrial plant of art, gold encrusted tables, oriental person rugs, and the fanciest piece of furniture in all of the rooms he passed.

The elf led him to a way with the door halfway clear. visible radiation was streaming out of it, but the man could n't hear any vocalisation. Lubar must be alone, he thought. That would be right anyway.

The man pushed past the elf and into the elbow room without knocking. He did n't see the need. Lubar was kinsfolk. trusted, the man had n't seen him in year, but he was sept nonetheless. Lubar was the man 's wife 's first cousin, to be specific.

Lubar was sitting at his desk, perusing a book. His untidy brown hairsbreadth was dangling over his face. He looked up when the man stepped into the room. He looked momentarily shocked, but regained his composure and stood up. Lubar was quite a bit curt than the man in the doorway and was wearing alike Negro robes.

`` Jarrett, '' Lubar gestured for him to arrive in, `` What an, unusual, surprise. ``

The man, Jarrett, walked in and took a seat in the red leather chair in front of the desk. Lubar resumed his place behind the desk.

`` To what do I owe the pleasure ? '' Lubar asked, folding his hands in front of him. `` It 's been a foresightful time, Jarrett. ``

`` I know, Ralph, it has indeed, '' Jarrett mused.

`` I have half a mind to cast off you out of this house after what your brother-in-law did to my brother, '' Lubar growled.

`` And I assure you that I understand, '' Jarrett replied, `` I do not sanction of what my brother-in-law did. I have not spoken to the man since. ``

Lubar raised his eyebrow. `` Interesting. And has your wife been in striking with him ? ``

`` She has, '' Jarrett sighed, `` But that is just one of the many things we have different public opinion on. I am well aware that you have no plans to forgive her brother, which is why I am here unbeknown to her. I would care to put that way out behind us and rekindle our friendship, Lubar. ``

`` I will have to intend about that, '' Lubar said.

`` I understand, '' Jarrett said, `` That 's all I can ask you to do. ``

`` I am quite peculiar as to how you managed to get here. Is n't your stallion ministry after you ? I pay attention to charming intelligence all around the world, you know. I have been following your write up for the past tense yr, '' Lubar changed the subject.

Jarrett smiled. It had been surprisingly easy to get to Australia with Muggle transportation. It took a piece and was rather annoying, but easy.

`` Yes, the Ministry is after me. However, I took the liberty of using Muggle transportation to arrive here. I simply took some Polyjuice Potion, bought an airplane ticket, and now I 'm here. ``

`` Impressive, '' Lubar replied, `` You used the new 24 hour Polyjuice ? ``

`` Obviously, '' Jarrett smirked, `` Otherwise I would induce turned back into myself in the middle of an airport. ``

`` True. Now, what can I do for you ? What could you possibly need that would cause you to postulate Muggle transportation to get here ? Somehow, I do n't suppose you would go through such uttermost meter to rekindle a friendship that died a decade ago. ``

`` Do you know why the Ministry wants me ? ``

`` Something about dueling Harry thrower ? '' Lubar smirked, `` That might be the stupidest thing you have ever done. ``

`` That 's the gist of it, '' Jarrett muttered, `` But we had cause for doing it. ``

`` We ? ``

`` Yes. Myself, my son, and one of my supporter. ``

`` Ah, '' Lubar leaned back in his president, `` Do you wish to crystalise me about your reason ? ``

`` We want to unite the Deathly Hallows in guild to facilitate our mission to continue the plans of lord Voldemort, '' Jarrett explained, `` Harry ceramist knows the placement of all three of the Deathly Hallows and currently possesses two of them. Have you heard of the Hallows ? ``

`` Of course I have, '' Lubar snapped, `` Mind you, I thought it was just a children 's story. ``

`` I assure you, it 's not, '' Jarrett said, `` I myself saw the invisibleness Cloak. They exist and had something to do with Voldemort 's precipitation. ``

`` Creator Voldemort, '' Lubar mused, `` I understand. I myself agree with his idea about the wizarding world. Especially when it comes to half-breeds. ``

`` I was hoping you 'd say that. Now, we have been on the run for over a year. After our showtime abortive attempt at obtaining the Hallows, we chose to lay low for a while. ``

`` You know where all of the Hallows are ? You said ceramist 's got them ? ``

`` Two of them, '' Jarrett corrected him, `` We thought we knew where all three were, but we were wrong about the senior Wand. well, thrower could be lying to us. That 's entirely possible. But even if he does not currently have it in his possession, I am sure he knows where it is. The invisibility Cloak is currently in self-will of Harry Potter 's halfway minor, Albus. The resurrection Stone is residing in the forest succeeding to Hogwarts, although I am not sure enough where. ``

`` Interesting, '' Lubar mused, `` But what do you take me to do ? ``

`` I 'm getting to that. Recently, my son and I came up with a plan to obtain the Invisibility Cloak. My son was to lure Albus thrower out of schoolhouse by capturing his cousin. To pull in a farsighted story scant, it ended in a duel between my son and Harry Potter. potter captured him and he now resides in Azkaban, '' Jarrett seethed.

`` That sounds like an absolutely abysmal plan. Did you actually believe potter 's kid would n't state him his first cousin was captured ? ``

`` We form of hoped so- ''

`` Shut up. The distributor point is, that was a horrible plan, and now your son is in prison. ``

`` Yes, '' Jarrett sighed, `` And I was sort of hoping you could help get him out. ``

Lubar stared at him and then smirked. `` Me ? Help get your son out of prison house ? How in the name of Merlin do you guess I 'll be able to do that ? ``

`` fountainhead, you 're a senior high school ranking Ministry functionary, you must possess a lot of influence in these kind of things, '' Jarrett stammered.

`` I am a high up ranking Ministry official in Australia, not Britain, '' Lubar laughed, `` Why do you suppose I have any influence over there ? ``

`` But do n't you keep back in contact with UK 's Department for the regularization and mastery of Magical brute ? '' Jarrett asked.

Lubar laughed. `` I do not get hold of UK 's Department for the regulating and Control of Magical animal. My feeling are vastly dissimilar from those in Britain. I would not want to link myself with the bloke there. Plus, my name is mud with the British Department for the ordinance and ascendancy of Magical Creatures. ``

Jarrett looked curiously at Lubar. `` That is hard to consider. What did you possibly do to make them dislike you ? ``

`` That, is a very retentive story, '' Lubar replied, `` The old head of my department was a very big man. He sympathized with werewolves and disliked any kind of nonindulgent lawmaking dealing with them. His reasonableness for this was because his own son is a werewolf. ``

`` Really ? ``

`` Yes. Anyway, he was fired after he broke one of the lycanthrope law. Then I became head of the department and passed more jurisprudence. He hated me. He moved his family to Britain, where he got a job in lycanthrope Support Services. Turns out, he was planning on moving anyway, even before he got fired. He wanted his werewolf kid to attend schoolhouse. The master of the Australian School of Sorcery obviously did not let him pay heed. The Hogwarts headmaster did. As far as I know, he 's there now. Once there, he made sure everyone in his department knew my name and what I believed. They do not speak kindly of me. ``

Jarrett rubbed his Kuki. `` Interesting. So there 's a lycanthrope at Hogwarts ? Quinton never told me anything about that. ``

`` He probably does n't know, '' Lubar smirked, `` I tend to doubt that the werewolf would denote it to the whole shoal. ``

`` Do you know the werewolf 's name ? '' Jarrett asked.

`` Do n't remember his first public figure. Last epithet 's Eckerton. ``

Jarrett thought for a bit and then his oculus popped out of his straits. `` Eckerton ? ! Quinton 's mentioned that kid. He 's one of the ones we dueled with stopping point year ! He 's friends with ceramist 's kid. ``

`` Really ? '' Lubar smirked, `` How matter to. ``

`` Yes, extremely interesting, '' Jarrett rolled his eyes, `` ceramicist 's kid befriended a wolfman. Thrilling, really. Now, can you help get Quinton out of Azkaban or not. ``

`` Talk like that and I wo n't help you, '' Lubar muttered.

Jarrett 's middle lit up. `` So you can help ? ``

`` Possibly, '' Lubar said, `` But I could most certainly help you get the Hallows. ``

`` And how would you do that ? ``

`` first gear, I give you advice, '' Lubar began, `` You 're going about this all haywire. Your first anteriority should deliver been the Resurrection Lucy Stone, not that invisibility Cloak. Yes, the rock will be hard to find, but nobody currently owns it. It 's sitting in the Vannevar Bush. You 've got to look for that bush and get that Stone. Then, you use the pit. ``

`` Use it ? ``

`` Yes, use it ! '' Lubar shouted, `` Honestly, I do n't know what my cousin sees in you. But anyway, use it to talk to Voldemort ! ``

`` Oh, right. ``

`` Then, you ask Voldemort what happened to the Elder scepter ! '' Lubar continued, `` That thing is the dear Hallow. The Cloak is the least utile. Anyone can establish themselves invisible with a Disillusionment good luck charm. You 've got to get that wand and stone first. ``

`` Oh, I 'll get looking for the rock, '' Jarrett muttered.

`` good, '' Lubar replied, `` And I 'll go to United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and aid you. ``

`` Seriously ? ``

`` Yes. I 'll name sure as shooting you do it properly. And I can suss out up on that werewolf kid, '' Lubar sneered.

`` What about the Ministry ? I thought they hated you. ``

`` They do, '' Lubar said, `` But I can come up with a full reason to be at Hogwarts this year. ``

`` What might that be ? ``

`` I can not explain in point. There is an event happening at Hogwarts this year. pupil from Commonwealth of Australia are participating. I have understanding to be there. ``

`` Shall I wait for you to explore for the Edward Durell Stone ? ``

`` Yes, '' Lubar said, `` I 'll make sure you do n't screw it up. And perhaps, while I 'm there, we can work out some way to break up your idiot son out of Azkaban. ``

`` Thanks, '' Jarrett muttered.

`` Just retrieve, you owe me for this. ''


A/N : I love it when editing takes less time than I thought ! Big thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, who also named this story.

This write up is more intertwined with In moonlight 's darkness than my other Albus stories have been. hoi polloi who have already read IMS will recognise this now that they 've read the prologue. I suggest anyone who has n't read IMS read it, although you 'll still be able to understand this fib if you don't.

I may be switching my update days to Wednesdays because I 'm quite meddlesome on Thursday. It 'll depend on how the semester goes.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



Albus Severus Potter awoke to a high pitched shriek. He sat up quickly in bed and listened. It was coming from downstairs and sounded exactly like his piddling babe, Lily. He groaned and got out of bed. It would be superfluous for him to try and go back to catch some Z's.

Lily had been impossible to address with ever since Albus returned abode from Hogwarts. She was incredibly excited about the fact that she was going to go to Hogwarts in the fall. Therefore, Lily had been constantly asking Albus about Hogwarts and the questions were usually 1 Albus did not know the answer to or did not want to serve.

Albus quickly changed his clothes and ran downstairs. It was a mystery as to what Lily was shrieking about now. His mum probably told her some new small-arm of information about Hogwarts.

`` Al ! '' Lily shoved a piece of parchment in Albus 's face, `` It came ! It came ! My Hogwarts letter came ! ``

So that was what the scream was about, Albus thought. Lily had been waiting for that letter all summer. Every morning she 'd watch out the window waiting for the Wiley Post owl to arrive.

`` Congratulations, Lily, '' Albus grinned at her and continued his walk down to the kitchen. Lily ran ahead of him and was literally dancing around the room by the sentence Albus arrived.

`` Lily ! '' James shouted, `` One does not shriek and trip the light fantastic toe like a lunatic when one receives their Hogwarts letter. ``

`` Oh, really, James II ? '' Ginny smirked at him, `` Were n't you the one to place upright on top of the table and do some sort of dance ? ``

James I blushed. `` Er, no. ``

`` Oh, do n't be ashamed, Saint James, '' Albus grinned as he sat down next to his chum, `` At least you did n't shriek like a miss. ``

`` Yeah, that was you, '' James laughed.

`` I did not ! '' Albus shouted, `` I acted perfectly normal ! ``

`` Normal for a fille, '' James II replied.

`` Stop it, James, '' Ginny scolded as she set a bowlful of oatmeal and a few envelope in front of Albus, `` You got some post as well, Al. ``

Albus picked up the pile of alphabetic character and opened the top one. It was the common book list as well as his Hogsmeade license slip. `` Here, Mum, '' he handed her the slickness, `` You 'll have to sign that. ``

Ginny took the sheepskin. `` I ca n't believe you 're a third year, Al. You 're growing up so fast. ``

`` Mum ! '' Albus groaned.

`` I ca n't believe it either, '' Saint James sighed, `` Ickle Al is getting so big ! ``

`` James ! '' Albus smacked him.

`` Mum, Al hit me ! '' James shouted.

`` Behave yourselves, boys, '' Ginny said without looking at them.

Albus opened the other envelope. It was from lusterlessness.

Dear Albus,

My parents said you could make out visit
on the 16th for a few days. They 're
going to take us to Diagon skittle alley too.
Let me experience if you can come !

Your friend,
mat

`` Mum ! '' Albus shouted, `` Can I go to flatness 's house on the 16th ? ``

Ginny read the letter over Albus 's shoulder. `` Sure. We 'll meet you in Diagon alleyway and get Epistle of James and Lily 's material then. ``

Albus grinned. He was very excited about going to lusterlessness 's theatre. He had never been there. He hoped that John Lackland and Kaden would be able to go as well. They had n't seen each other in about a calendar month, when Albus and Rose had had their birthday party.

`` Thanks, Mum. ``

`` Mum ! '' Lily whined, `` I wanted to go to Diagon back street today ! ``

`` Sorry, Lily, '' Ginny replied, `` I 'd rather get everyone 's supplying at once. ``

`` I do n't require to hold off ! ``

`` Lily, you have to wait, '' Ginny sighed.

Albus turned to James and they smirked at each other. Lily still had n't grown out of her whiny phase. It got rather annoying. Albus hoped that she would n't be like that at Hogwarts.

******

The succeeding few years passed very slowly. Albus was dying to get away from Lily. She asked him no less than fifty times how the sorting was done and Albus replied with L'I ca n't tell yous'.

Eventually the sixteenth arrived and Albus sat in the draft elbow room waiting for Matt and his parents to establish up. Kaden was with him. He had arrived a few hours earlier and they had spent their time trying to stick around away from Lily.

`` You know, Kaden, you were as irritating as Lily a year ago, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Was not, '' Kaden replied, `` And I 've matured. ``

`` Yeah, sure, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

The two boys looked up when they heard a loud crack. Matt 's entire family had Apparated into the draught way. Ginny walked into the room and greeted Matt 's parents.

`` Matt ! '' Albus grinned, `` I am so gladiola to see you. I ca n't wait to get away from Lily. ``

`` Oh, Al, be nice, '' Ginny sighed.

`` What ? She 's irritating, '' Albus shrugged, `` Bye, Mum. ``

`` good day, Al, I 'll see you in a few solar day, '' she gave Albus a hug.

`` All right, '' Mr. Eckerton said, `` Albus, you can Apparate with Amy. Kaden, you can Apparate with my married woman. ``

Albus nodded and stepped over to Amy. She wrapped him in a hug and the two of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the middle of a large field. There was a log house in the distance.

`` This does n't look like a house, '' Kaden announced as he stepped away from Matt 's mum.

`` It 's not, '' Matt said as he pointed to the log house, `` That 's my theatre. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden replied as they started towards the house, `` Why did n't we just Apparate into it ? ``

`` My parents put anti-Apparition wards on the house, '' Matt explained.

`` Why ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I do n't need to get into it, '' mat muttered.

Kaden groaned. `` I thought you were done keeping secrets from me. ``

`` There are some things I do n't severalise anyone, Kaden, '' Matt sighed.

Albus smirked and shook his head. Some things never change. Kaden still did n't know how to keep his mouth shut.

Matt 's house was the only one in the area. Albus could n't see any other building besides a shed behind the home. There were theater of operations surrounding the house and a low fence surrounding the property. Beyond the fence was farmland.

Matt 's dad unlocked the threshold and Albus followed him inside. He stopped in the entryway and looked around. The place was about as different as a house could be from Grimmauld Place. It was overt and aired and decorated in a Bodoni yet rustic way. From the door, Albus could see the kitchen straight ahead, the dining room next to it, and the living room next to the door. On the other side of the door was a set of stairs leading upstairs. Albus continued walking into the livelihood elbow room and saw a corridor next to the kitchen that lead to a few Thomas More rooms. Albus liked it instantly. It had a homey feel to it like the Burrow did. Except it was lots unclouded. Matt had said his mum was variety of a neat addict, but Albus was n't expecting it to be this neat.

`` Great family, Matt, '' Albus grinned.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` But it 's too bully. We 're going to own to transfer that. ``

`` My mum likes it neat, '' mat said, `` She 'll make you clean up whatever you mess up. ``

`` I 'll go get bathroom now, '' Mr. Eckerton announced, `` You can come, matt. I 'll be able to Apparate both of you. ``

`` Ok. I 'll be rightfulness back, Albus, '' Matt said and left the house with his dad.

`` You can just wait in the support way, '' Mrs. Eckerton gestured for Albus and Kaden to turn to their left.

Albus nodded and sat down on one of the couches. It was quite comfy. Kaden sat down next to him and put his feet up on the coffee table, earning a stern gaze from Mrs. Eckerton. Kaden sheepishly removed his feet from the table.

Amy sat down on a death chair and pulled a book off the table. She opened it and began reading. It was some kind of potions book.

Kaden tilted his psyche and read the deed of conveyance. `` Do you like potions ? '' he asked.

`` Yeah, '' Amy replied, `` I 'm studying to be a Healer. ``

`` That 's neat ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` I like potions too. Albus thinks I 'm insane. Well, so do lustrelessness and John. ``

`` There are n't many people who appreciate brewing, '' Amy replied, `` But I 'm gladiolus you like it. ``

`` Me, too, '' Kaden said.

Amy set her book down. `` So, Albus, how has your summer been ? ``

`` commodity, '' Albus said, `` Well, Lily is driving me mad because she got her Hogwarts letter the other day. ``

`` I still think of when I got my letter to the Australian school day of Sorcery- ''

`` The what ? '' Kaden asked.

`` The Australian schooling of Sorcery, '' Amy repeated, `` The shoal of magic in Australia. I went there for three geezerhood. Then we moved here. ``

`` You lived in Australia ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` Er, yeah, '' Amy looked at him strangely, `` You did n't jazz that ? ``

`` Nope. Matt never told me, '' Kaden turned to Albus, `` Did he tell you ? ``

`` Yeah, my number 1 year, '' Albus replied, `` I never really noticed that he did n't tell you. ``

`` Well, he did n't, '' Kaden muttered, `` But it would explain the laughable accent he 's got. ``

Albus stifled his laughter. `` Er, yeah. ``

The three of them sat quietly for another few minutes. Kaden began to laugh and it became louder and louder until Albus turned to await at him.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` The Aboriginal Australian schooltime of Sorcery, '' Kaden laughed, `` A, S, S. Ass ! ``

Albus groaned. leave it to Kaden to picture that out.

Amy laughed. `` You know, that 's what Teddy said when he first heard about it. ``

The movement door opened and mat and John ran inside followed by Mr. Eckerton. John paused in the entryway and looked around.

`` Whoa, '' he grinned, `` This house is bloody brilliant ! ``

`` Thanks, '' lustrelessness said and the two of them entered the keep room. `` What are you three laughing at ? ``

`` My old school, '' Amy smirked, `` Kaden figured out its acronym. ``

`` Oh, ASS, '' mat laughed, `` Yeah, I laughed about that for days when I figured it out. ``

`` well, I 've got to get to turn, '' Amy stood up, `` I 'll try and turn back by for dinner sometime this calendar week. ``

`` Bye, Amy, '' Mr. Eckerton gave her a hug.

`` Bye, Dad. ``

`` So, I 'll show you the upstairs, '' matt said after Amy left.

Albus grabbed his bag and followed Matt upstairs. Saint John and Kaden thundered behind them. Once they reached the top, Matt led them to the door on the left along the back wall.

`` This is my room, '' flatness announced as they entered.

Albus stepped inside and looked around. The carpet was blue and the walls were white. It was messy than the rest of the home, but nowhere near as messy as St. James 's way. There was a Chudley Cannons bedspread on the bed and multiple poster on the wall.

`` Nice bed, '' St. John smirked, `` Nice to see the cannon can still sell merchandise. If only they devoted that effort to their playacting .... ''

`` Shut it, John, '' Matt replied, `` The Cannons have been playing better this season. ``

`` Oh, yeah, they did get three destination in their game against Puddlemere, '' John said, `` Too bad Puddlemere had a hundred clip that many goals. ``

Matt groaned. `` Come on, I 'll record you the other room. ``

Albus followed Matt out of the room and down the corridor. The next door was a bathroom and the one after that was Amy 's way. The last door was alongside a dissimilar wall and Matt gestured for them to ill-use inside.

`` This is the depository library, '' matte announced, `` We 'll be sleeping here. ``

`` Sounds like Rose 's dreaming semen true, '' bathroom laughed.

The library was twice the sizing of flatness 's elbow room. Bookshelves covered all the walls and there were a few desks sitting in the middle of the room. A squashy looking couch was sitting below one of the windowpane and there were a few armchairs in various places. There were also four cots in the middle, but Albus doubted they were normally there.

Albus tossed his bag down on a cot as John and Kaden did the same. Kaden started wandering around the way and looking at the various books.

`` I do n't remember I 've ever been in a house with this many books, '' Kaden said.

`` There 's even more in Dad 's study. ``

`` You should see Rose 's house, '' Albus commented.

`` You 've got a lot of Good Book about sorcerous creatures, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, well, that 's what Dad 's into. ``

`` Especially werewolves, '' Kaden went on, `` There 's a whole row of them. ``

`` Yeah, you can probably venture why, '' Matt mumbled.

`` So, '' Albus changed the study, `` How was your trip to New House of York ? ``

The irritation that had been on Matt 's case moments before disappeared. `` It was bright ! We had so lots fun. ``

`` And how was the airplane ? '' John asked eagerly.

Matt laughed. `` Just like every other one I 've been on. ``

`` Anything else new with anyone ? '' Albus asked.

`` Bethany thinks she 's a witch, '' Kaden announced, `` She found a stick outside and has been pretending to spue spells. ``

`` Bet your gramps loved that, '' Albus laughed.

`` He turned a adorable shade of purple, '' Kaden laughed.

`` I 'd pay to see that, '' King John replied.

Albus and Kaden laughed. `` I would n't suggest being anywhere near my Uncle Vernon when he turns purple, '' Albus put in.

`` Did I tell you that my dad 's getting a publicity ? '' Matt asked.

Albus turned to him. `` Nope. What form of promotion ? ``

`` The headway of the Department of the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures is retiring at the end of the twelvemonth, '' Matt explained, `` And he 's recommending my dad for the position. It 's not last, but it 'll most likely happen. ``

`` That old fellow is finally retiring ? '' Albus asked, `` He 's been there for decades. ``

`` Yeah. Dad was n't sure he wanted the promotion, but after thinking about it, he decided to lead it if it 's offered to him, '' mat continued.

`` Why would n't he want it ? '' John asked.

`` Well, that 's what he did in Australia. And he hated it towards the end. But he thinks it 'll be effective up here. ``

`` From what you 've told us, everything is better up here, '' Albus said.

`` What does your dad do now ? '' Kaden asked.

`` He works in Werewolf Support Services. ``

Kaden nodded. `` You know, that is sort of funny, considering .... ''

Matt rolled his centre. `` Yeah, I know. The general public did n't really think it was that funny when we were living in Australia. ``

`` And that 's why you moved ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Pretty much, yeah, '' Matt said quietly, `` But I like Hogwarts, so I do n't really care that we had to move. ``

`` How about you, Albus ? '' lav asked, `` Anything exciting happening in the most notable wizarding family ? ``

Albus rolled his eyes. If anyone besides his friends referred to his family unit that way, he probably would experience hexed them.

`` Actually, '' Albus began, surprised that he had momentarily forgotten about it, `` I do have some interesting word about the Hogwarts staff. ``

`` What is it ? '' John asked eagerly, `` Is Slughorn finally retiring for good ? ``

`` No, '' Albus laughed, `` I do n't think that will ever pass. ``

`` Then what is it ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` My dad 's not teaching Defense this twelvemonth, '' Albus answered. Harry had broken the news to Albus, Epistle of James, and Lily a few workweek ago. Albus was disappointed, but not really storm. He had been surprised that Harry had stayed for more than a year.

flatness, Saint John the Apostle, and Kaden gaped at him. `` What ? '' John asked, `` Are you serious ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded.

`` Why ? '' flatness asked, `` He 's a brainy instructor. ''

`` He thinks he needs to focus more on his Auror job, '' Albus explained, `` He wants to fully devote his time to finding Willinson and Washburn. ``

`` Oh, well, that makes sense, '' Matt replied.

`` Who 's replacing him ? '' John asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` Dad did n't say me. He said he wants me to uprise my own opinions of the instructor. ``

`` I wonder if we 'll ever have the exact same staff for two age in a row, '' John commented, `` I mean, first off year they were all new to us. Last year we got Cedonia. And this year we 've got some new Defense teacher. ``

`` I just hope whoever the new teacher is, that they 're nice, '' flatness said, `` So what do you lot want to do ? We 've got a few hours until dinner party. ``

`` Hmm, '' Albus mused, `` Want to take on Quidditch ? That study would be excellent for it. ``

flatness groaned. `` That 's the one matter we ca n't do. The Muggle Fannie Merritt Farmer is often out tending to his fields and he 'd see us. ``

`` I 've got an theme, '' Kaden grinned mischievously and dug around in his bag. He pulled out a football game. `` Let 's frolic football. ``

The boys decided it was as thoroughly an idea as any and they ran downstairs. Albus had limited experience with football. He had watched a couple matches and played it a few times, but that was it. He did n't think John had ever played and he was n't certain about flatness. privy was unbelieving about the fun of football game, but he was willing to give it a try.

`` Where are you boys going ? '' Mrs. Eckerton shouted from the kitchen as they ran to the rachis door.

`` We 're going to play football, '' mat said as he pulled the doorway open.

`` Be careful ! '' Mrs. Eckerton replied.

Albus followed Matt down the deck step and into the field. He stood side by side to Matt and privy and all three of them turned to Kaden, who had set the glob on the earth and had one human foot on it.

`` Have any of you played football before ? '' Kaden asked.

`` A few times, '' Albus answered.

`` Nope, '' John said.

`` When I was younger, I played a bit, '' Matt replied, `` But I was never any adept. ``

Kaden sighed. `` All right. Why do n't we just play two on two. John and I versus Albus and Matt. ``

The other three male child nodded. Kaden pointed out two different trees that would attend as makeshift goals. He next explained the regulation of the game and they began playing.

Albus found the concept very exchangeable to that of his pursuer post in Quidditch, only he could n't use his hands. That was very odd. He had trouble keeping the chunk near his feet and even more trouble aiming it to flatness. Half the clip Kaden would steal it and he would n't even get a chance to pass it.

St. John the Apostle was hardly any proficient than Albus. He never managed to complain the ball where he aimed it, but Kaden 's superordinate science seemed to compensate for trick 's lack of acquirement. The two of them ( well, Kaden ) had scored more finish than Albus and Matt.

lustrelessness seemed to be capable to aim the ball, but he wound up tripping over it a lot. He did make do to hit a few goals, though.

All in all, Albus thought it was variety of fun. It was n't something he desired to be on an functionary team of, but it was fun to play informally. Not nearly as exciting as Quidditch, though.

`` can ! '' Albus shouted as trick picked up the ball and took off across the field, `` You ca n't disturb the ball ! ``

`` I 'm turning the secret plan into Quidditch-football ! '' John shouted and threw the ball at the end, `` See, we 've got another point now ! ``

Kaden groaned and kicked the clod back into play. `` That 's cheat, Gospel According to John ! And we 're winning, so we do n't postulate to cheat ! ``

`` I do n't like ! '' Saint John the Apostle grinned and picked the formal up again.

Kaden tackled John and tried to writhe the ball out of his subdivision. John tried to escape, but Kaden was holding onto his leg.

`` Now it 's Quidditch-football-wrestling, '' Albus said to Matt as the two of them walked towards their hand-to-hand struggle friends.

`` Albus ! assistant ! Your cousin is Muggle dueling with me ! ``

`` Well, we are playing a Muggle sport, john, '' Albus smirked and yanked the football game out of his hands.

`` Hey ! '' Kaden shouted and grabbed Albus 's leg, `` collapse that back ! ``

Albus stumbled and fell onto the priming. He held the ball out of Kaden 's scope and Kaden tackled him. privy, now unblock of Kaden 's wrath, grabbed Matt 's leg and pulled him into the mix.

`` Hey ! '' matt shouted, `` I did n't take the football ! ``

`` Does n't matter, '' John grinned, `` We 're not going to let you stand there while we 're Muggle dueling each other. ``

`` Got it ! '' Kaden shouted a few minutes later. He held the football up over his head. `` And I declare lavatory and I the winners ! ``

Albus stood up and didder his brain. John and Matt stood up after him. John the Divine looked quite triumphant at the win, even though he had n't really contributed to it.

`` Congratulations, '' Matt smirked, `` You beat a clumsy superstar and a chaser at football. ``

`` Any win is a good win, '' Kaden grinned.

`` Boys ! '' Mrs. Eckerton shouted from the window, `` dinner is ready ! ``

Albus grinned as he walked towards the house. As much as he enjoyed his own house, it was fun to spend a few twenty-four hour period with Matt and his other friends. Plus, the female child were n't there. They had never really had clip away from Rose and Amanda and it was kind of fun. Not that he did n't revel their company, there were just matter they could n't really do around rosiness and Amanda. Like turn a football mate into a wrestling lucifer, for example.

`` What did you boys do ? '' Mrs Eckerton exclaimed as they entered the house, `` You 're filthy ! I want you all to go shower before you eat ! ``

`` Just like plate, '' Kaden commented, `` You 're a lot like my mum. ``

`` Well, I 'll take that as a compliment, '' Mrs. Eckerton smiled.



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks so much to everyone for reading and for your rattling reviews ! You make my day when you leave revue ! Also, I will be updating on Wednesdays from now on, they 're just easier this semester.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Dinner with Matt 's parents was interesting. Mealtimes at Albus 's business firm were always chaotic and never really planned in great point. It seemed like one of his parents was always coming or going. Then there was the fact that at least one of his cousins or Teddy always seemed to be showing up partway through the meal. But Albus did n't really mind. He sort of liked the chaos that was his family.

Mealtimes at Matt 's house, on the former hand, seemed more dinner gown and planned. His mum and star sign elf, Ellie, cooked a lavish spread and served it on fancy dishes than Albus 's crime syndicate had. And lusterlessness did n't have any relatives to randomly free fall in. Albus enjoyed it, though. The formality of it did n't unsettle Kaden in the least and he dominated the conversation, which centered around Hogwarts, Quidditch, and football.

The son spent the evening in the den acting circle after daily round of Exploding snatch. Since Rose was n't there, they all had a chance of winning. Matt 's parents joined in for a few rounds and once they left, Albus and his admirer talked about the upcoming school twelvemonth. John and Kaden agreed that they needed to pull a few marauderesque japery, but Albus and lustrelessness were a bit reluctant. The job of school trickster was currently held by James River and his friends and Albus really did n't want everyone to imagine he was a just like his brother.

Eventually, Mrs. Eckerton returned to the room and told them they needed to get to bed. Albus followed matte up the step and into the subroutine library. They all changed into pajamas, but they did n't go to bed. Their conversations continued until Mrs. Eckerton knocked on the door and told them they had to go to bed.

`` Albus ? '' Matt whispered a few minutes later, `` Are you awake ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus whispered back.

`` I 'm really glad you came, '' Matt replied.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` You three are the firstly booster I 've ever had over here, '' matt said quietly, `` I never really thought it would ever befall. ``

Albus really did n't know what to say to that. He knew matte had had a lonely childhood until going to Hogwarts, but the fact that he had never had friends over to his house before never crossed his mind.

`` well, I 'll definitely want to descend back, '' Albus decided to say.

`` Thanks, '' Matt said, `` Well, good dark. ``

`` 'Night. ``

Albus fell asleep quickly to the muffled sound of Kaden 's stertor. But what seemed like a short spell later, he awoke again to the sound of somebody 's whispering.

`` Kaden, '' someone whispered, `` Kaden ! ``

`` Wh-what is it ? '' Kaden yawned.

`` Are you hungry ? '' Albus recognized John 's voice.

`` Erm, a little, I guess, '' Kaden replied.

`` privation to go find some food ? '' King John asked.

`` Sure. ``

Albus listened as John and Kaden got up from their cots and crept out of the room. There was the sound of stride on the stairs, and then quiet.

Albus leaned over his cot and poked lusterlessness. `` mat ! '' he whispered, `` Get up ! ``

Matt rolled over and Albus groaned. It was always so hard to wake him up. `` lusterlessness ! '' Albus shouted a piddling louder.

lusterlessness rolled over again and mumbled something incoherent. Albus poked him a minuscule harder and he finally opened his eyes.

`` What ? '' he asked.

`` John and Kaden went to get a collation, '' Albus told him. Albus did n't have it away what form of snack the two of them were going to get, but he had a touch sensation they would n't make it simple. John the Divine and Kaden were known to come up with some moderately mad estimation when they were together, especially when they did n't get Albus or Matt to counteract them.

`` All right, '' lustrelessness groaned and got out of his cot, `` Let 's go. ``

Albus got up and the two of them quietly left the room and went down to the kitchen. The light was on, but Albus could n't hear anything going on. That could either be a good sign or a bad sign.

When the kitchen came into vista, Albus saw John and Kaden rummaging around in the refrigerator.

`` We could combine this with that, '' Kaden was saying.

`` That is disgusting, '' John commented, `` But brilliant. ``

John and Kaden emerged from the refrigerator carrying various containers. They set them down on the sideboard and then turned around.

`` Oh, hey Albus and Matt ! '' John grinned, `` Want any of our midnight snack ? ``

`` Depends on what it is, '' Albus smiled wryly and sat down on one of the counter stools, `` If you think something is both disgusting and brilliant, I 'll bet it 's really disgusting. ``

`` Oh, get on, Albus, '' Kaden grinned, `` Mashed potatoes and chocolate bar would be a good combination. ``

`` Oh, nasty ! '' matt grimaced and sat down next to Albus.

`` It 's only nasty if you forget the ketchup, '' St. John the Apostle replied.

Even the idea of a combination like that made Albus want to vomit. It sounded like some form of new Bertie Bott 's flavor.

`` No thanks, '' Albus said.

`` Your loss, '' Kaden shrugged and opened the container of potatoes.

`` So, if you 're not down here to eat our yummy food, what are you here for ? '' John Lackland asked as he dumped the cake into the potatoes.

`` To supervise you, '' Matt replied, `` I ca n't let the two of you cook unsupervised in my kitchen. ``

`` Oh, relax, '' John grinned.

Albus watched as Kaden stirred the potatoes and cake combination. It actually did n't see that bad. Almost like some form of unusual pudding. Albus was sure the catsup would contravene any sorting of possible edibleness, though.

`` Hey, what 's this thing ? '' John gestured to a Shirley Temple box that was attached to the bottom of the cupboards along the rampart. He pushed a few clitoris and the unharmed matter lit up inside and started whirring.

Albus stared at it. He vaguely remembered seeing something like it at some of his cousins'houses, but he could n't ever echo using it.

`` It 's a microwave, '' matte jumped off his potty and pushed a clitoris on it. It stopped whirring and turned dark again. `` And you ca n't reverse it on when it 's empty-bellied. ``

can stared at it. `` What 's it do ? What 's the dot ? ``

`` It cooks food, '' lusterlessness explained, `` riotous than an oven. ``

`` Oh, '' St. John shrugged and picked up a fork that was sitting on the counter. He put it in the microwave and went to turn it on.

Matt grabbed his arm. `` You ca n't put metallic element in it ! It 'll break off ! ``

Albus smirked. And John said he did n't ask supervising. He definitely did, especially since there were Muggle gizmo everywhere.

`` Well that 's stupe, '' trick replied and took the branching out.

Matt shrugged. `` It 's Muggle technology. ``

`` Why 's it in here then ? '' John asked.

`` Came with the theatre. And my mum likes Muggle technology for cooking. ``

`` Oh, '' privy said and turned to Kaden, who had begun pouring ketchup in the mixture, `` Let 's put the whole thing in the microwave ! ``

Matt groaned and turned to Albus. `` This wo n't turn out good. ``

Albus laughed. `` Probably not. But Kaden 's Muggle Born, so I 'm middling sure he knows how to work the microwave oven. ``

`` in effect full stop, '' flatness said, `` John ! Let Kaden do the microwaving. ``

`` Aw, '' John sighed, `` It looks fun. ``

Kaden took the bowl and put it in the microwave. He turned it on and Albus watched as the stadium turned around and around on the inside crustal plate. It was rather canny, he thought. Almost like magic. It seemed like a magic box that cooked food in phonograph record time.

A moment or so later, the microwave beeped, which caused can to jump. `` Bloody hell ! '' he shouted, `` What was that ? ``

`` It means it 's done, '' Kaden laughed and took the bowl out, `` Who wants to try it ? ``

`` Me ! '' John shouted and grabbed a few spoons off the counter.

`` No way, '' Albus shook his mind. The commixture in the bowl was the consistency of pudding, but was a strange ruby-red Brown people of color that was absolutely disgusting looking.

`` Me either, '' Matt said, `` Just the odor of that grosses me out. ``

John took a whiff and grinned. `` olfaction good ! ``

`` Oh, gross ! '' Matt covered his mouth.

`` You look a bit green, '' Albus said to Matt.

`` unspoilt thing he 's not having any, '' Kaden took a Brobdingnagian spoonful and stuffed it in his mouth.

Albus watched as Kaden swallowed the solid food. He was actually smiling when he had finished. Matt really looked like he was going to regorge after watching Kaden eat it.

`` Delicious ! '' Kaden grinned.

`` Kaden, that is the most repellant matter I have ever seen you eat, '' Albus announced.

whoremonger tried it next and pronounced it Delicious as well. Albus and Matt just stared at each early and tried not to watch as John and Kaden polished off the rest of the concoction.

`` Are you done yet ? '' lustrelessness asked, `` The odour of it is really getting to me. ``

`` Almost, '' John said.

`` Done, '' Kaden replied.

`` You 'd better lave the bowls out, '' Matt said.

Kaden nodded and began to moisten the dishes. john returned to the refrigerator and started rummaging around again.

`` You 're not still hungry, are you ? '' Albus asked.

`` Not really, '' Saint John the Apostle shrugged, `` Just looking. ''

He closed the refrigerator and went back over to the microwave. He stuck something in it, pushed a few clit, and it lit up and started whirring again.

`` What did you put in there ? '' lustrelessness asked suspiciously.

`` Er, '' St. John stammered, `` Well, I just kind of wanted something else to eat- ''

`` I thought you were n't hungry, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't, but then I got an idea and I thought I 'd make an egg- ''

`` AN EGG ? ! '' Matt shouted as he jumped up, `` Did you put an egg in the microwave oven ? ``

`` Er, yes, '' lav said, `` Why ? ``

`` Because eggs- ''

Matt never got to wind up his sentence. A meretricious pop came from the microwave oven before he could persist in. He quickly turned the thing off and glared at Saint John. john was grinning and looking at the microwave.

`` Explode in microwave oven, '' lustrelessness finished.

`` Oh, er, sorry, '' John said, trying not to laugh.

`` That 's brainy ! '' Kaden grinned and opened the microwave, `` I 've always wanted to try that ! ``

Albus stood behind lustrelessness and looked into the microwave. The inside was covered in egg yolk, White person, and shell. It was a make out mountain, yet sort of funny at the Sami time.

lusterlessness groaned, `` I ca n't believe you did that. well, ok, I can. I told you not to touch the microwave. ``

`` Sorry, '' John shrugged, `` I 'll cleanse it up. ``

`` make clean what up ? ''

Albus turned around and saw Matt 's parents standing in the entryway to the kitchen. Both of them looked half asleep.

`` John decided to put an egg in the microwave, '' lustrelessness explained.

Mr. Eckerton burst out laughing and his married woman glared at him. `` I did the same thing when we first moved here, '' Mr. Eckerton grinned.

`` See ? '' John Lackland said, `` I 'm not the only one ! ``

`` I know, '' matte sighed, `` At least I caught you before you put the fork in there. ``

`` Do I even want to experience what you boys were doing down here ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked.

`` John and Kaden wanted a snack, '' matte replied, `` So they made a skanky combining of grind white potato vine, burnt umber cake, and catsup. They liked it, but Albus and I thought it was loathsome. Just the smell of it made me tired of. ``

Mrs Eckerton groaned. `` Well, just clean up the microwave oven and go back bed. ``

`` Ok, Mum, '' Matt replied.

`` You have to admit that was shady, Julie, '' Mr. Eckerton laughed.

`` Yes, I do actually chance it funny that you made the Sami fault five age ago, and now King John did it and he 's a thirteen class old boy, '' Mrs. Eckerton smirked.

`` How was I supposed to sleep together testis exploded in the microwave ? '' Mr. Eckerton asked as they stared back towards the stairs.

`` You should have taken Muggle Studies, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

Albus, matt, and Kaden waited while John cleaned the microwave. It did n't take him long and soon the four of them returned to their cots in the subroutine library. Albus fell asleep thinking about what Rose would say when he told her trick exploded an egg in lusterlessness 's microwave.

******

`` What do you want to do ? '' Albus asked the next day. The male child were all sitting in the den throwing a Quaffle around.

`` Let 's microwave random stuff, '' John suggested.

`` No way, '' Matt replied.

Matt 's parents had officially banned them from cooking for the end of the sojourn. Albus found this rather rum, especially the feel on John and Kaden 's faces when they were told they could n't cook. The two of them spent a well twenty hour trying to recover a loophole in the rule.

`` Do thaumaturgist spiel hide and seek ? '' Kaden asked.

`` That was random, '' Albus commented, `` But yes, star do run hide and search. ``

`` I play it with my cousins all the time, '' John said.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said. He loved games of fell and seek at the Burrow. There were excellent stead to hide there.

`` We should dally it, '' Kaden announced, `` It 's always wearisome to play it at my mansion because the only one there to wager it with is Bethany. And she never hides in good spot. ``

`` That 's what Amy said about me when I was little, '' lustrelessness said, `` I would always hide in the Saame place. ``

`` Ok, let 's child's play, '' John stood up, `` The sofa in here can be home and we can hide anywhere in the house. ``

`` Sounds respectable. But no going outside, '' lusterlessness agreed, `` Who 's it ? ``

`` Albus, '' trick said.

Albus shrugged. He always liked being it. `` All right. You lot can all go hide and I 'll count to 100. ``

Albus closed his eyes and started counting. He heard the step of his acquaintance disappear as he got nigh to 100. Usually, one of his older cousins was it whenever he played hide and seek. Albus rarely got to be it.

`` Ready or not, here I come ! '' he shouted and looked around the den. The den would be the perfect smear for concealment because it was close to the abode sofa. But there were n't very many places to shroud in it.

Albus walked quietly over to the one W.C. that was in the room. He pulled it open and looked inside. Empty. He left the room and looked down the corridor. The bathroom, he thought, that would be a good hiding place. Albus himself hid in the bathtub on numerous occasions.

He stepped into the bathroom and sure enough, the shower drape was pulled shut. Albus yanked it give and saw John laying in the tub.

`` Got you, '' Albus grinned.

`` Merlin, this is always a good spot ! '' Saint John the Apostle groaned as he got out of the tub.

`` Yeah, which is why it 's always where I hide, '' Albus grinned, `` Come on, you can help me research for lustrelessness and Kaden. ``

Albus and John left the bathroom and resumed the search. Albus really did n't feel comfortable searching in Matt 's dad 's report, so they left it alone. Albus figured no one would hide in there anyway. They searched the rest of the downstairs, looking in every nook and chap and closet. But Matt and Kaden were no where to be found.

Next they went upstairs and searched all the bedrooms except lusterlessness 's parents'. The library and bathroom were searched as well, but still no portion. The secret plan was reminding Albus of the I he played at the Burrow. James River was always impossible to find. Although one time he got a broom and decided to loom above the house to hide. No one found him for hours and then the grownup made a 'no flying'regulation for hide and seek.

`` Where are they ? '' whoremaster said as they searched the library for the indorsement metre, `` We 've searched the entire sign ! ``

`` Not the basement, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Good idea, '' John agreed.

Albus and John ran down the stairs and towards the basement. They opened the door and ran down another flight of steps. Albus flipped on the igniter and the two of them began to front around. lusterlessness had showed them the basement earlier, when he showed them Amy 's potion brewing room.

John checked the potion brewing room while Albus looked in the main part of the basement that seemed to be a combination storage region and den. Still nothing. The basement was perfectly quieten, too.

`` What about that room ? '' John pointed to a room at the book binding of the basement.

`` mat said it was just storage, '' Albus replied, `` I doubt either of them are in there. Plus, it 's so quiet. We 'd hear some sort of movement. No one 's down here. ``

`` Then where are they ? '' privy asked.

`` Maybe they made it to the sofa, '' Albus suggested.

Albus and John the Divine returned the den and matte was laying on the couch. He grinned and sat up when Albus and John entered the room.

Albus gaped at matt. `` Where were you hiding ? We did n't even see you run in here ! ``

`` I was in that closet, '' Matt pointed to the wardrobe Albus had searched earlier.

`` But I checked that as soon as I finished counting ! '' Albus groaned, `` And no one was in there ! ``

`` There 's a littler door in there that leads to a smaller closet, '' lusterlessness got up off the sofa and walked over to the closet. `` aspect, '' he opened the door.

Matt pulled back a few coating that were hanging up and Albus noticed a very tiny door in the wall. Matt opened it and revealed a petite water closet that was just big enough for a small person to climb into.

`` See ? '' flatness grinned.

`` You had an unfair vantage, '' John said, `` You know thrust about this house that we do n't. ``

`` wellspring, when we play at your theatre, then you 'll own an vantage. ``

`` My house does n't have any little secret W.C., '' John muttered.

`` What 's that for anyway ? '' Albus asked.

`` Dunno, '' Matt shrugged and looked around the room, `` Hey, where 's Kaden ? Did n't you find him ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus replied. He never would have thought that Kaden would be this near at fell and seek.

`` We 'd better go find him, '' John said.

`` Wonder why he has n't tried to run to the couch, '' Albus said as they left the room.

`` No idea, '' Matt said, `` But with Kaden, it could be anything. ``

The male child searched the entire menage twice, but they still could n't find Kaden. He was the ultimate fell and seek player, Albus thought. He could even pass Saint James the Apostle lessons.

`` Where the ruddy perdition is he ? '' John shouted as they walked down the stairs.

`` I wonder if he 'll ever even come out if we do n't find him, '' Albus said.

`` He 'll number out once he 's athirst, '' lusterlessness pointed out.

`` What are you boys doing ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked. She was sitting on the couch reading a Bible in the living room.

`` acting fell and seek, '' Matt replied and sat down on a hot seat, `` But we ca n't incur Kaden. ``

`` Did you look outside ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked as she set down her book.

`` Outside was off limit, '' trick said.

`` We 've searched the house twice just now, '' matte said, `` And Albus and John searched it twice before that. We 've looked everywhere. ``

`` Everywhere ? '' Mrs. Eckerton raised her supercilium, `` Even in the basement ? ``

lustrelessness 's face paled. `` Oh, Merlin ! Not the full basement ! ``

`` You 'd break go check, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

mat jumped off the couch and ran towards the basement door. Albus shrugged at toilet as they followed. He did n't experience a clue as to why Matt was so nervous about Kaden hiding in the cellar. Plus, Albus and John checked the basement. Except that storage room. But why would that make Matt nervous ? What was in it ?

Albus ran down the stairs and followed Matt. Sure enough, lusterlessness went straight to the reposition room.

`` merlin ! '' Matt muttered and paused in front of the door, `` Why did he cover in here ? ``

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked.

lusterlessness sighed, but did n't reply. He put his hand on the doorknob and slowly opened it.

Albus gaped as he saw what was in the way. Well, what was n't in it. The room was completely void and had no windows. But the foreign office was that it was padded. The storey and paries were completely covered with what looked like mattresses.

`` Is that ? '' can asked, `` A padded elbow room ? ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden, who was running around and literally bouncing off the walls, ran over to them, `` call for you long enough ! lustrelessness, why did n't you say us you had a bolster way in your sign of the zodiac ? This is brilliant ! ``

Albus did n't think that flatness thought it was so glorious. He was staring at Kaden and was as gabardine as he had been when his mum suggested they search the basement.

`` Bloody blaze, this is bright ! '' whoremaster grinned and walked into the room.

`` No it 's not, '' Matt said quietly, `` Come on. ''

Matt turned and left without waiting to see if the others would comply. Albus followed immediately and he heard John and Kaden run after him. Matt did n't say anything as they walked back upstairs, and Albus hoped Kaden would have the sense not to say anything either.

`` Did you find him ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked as they entered the living room.

`` Yeah, '' Matt muttered.

`` Was he- ''

`` Yeah, '' matt said without stopping.

Albus followed him all the way upstairs and into his bedchamber. mat flopped down on his bed and stared up at the ceiling. Albus sat down on the floor and John and Kaden sat down on either side of him.

`` Er, what did I do ? '' Kaden whispered to Albus.

`` Shush, '' Albus replied. He had an inkling as to what that room was used for, but he was n't sure. He did know that it was usually best to let Matt tell them what was going on in his own time, though. Kaden 's pestering questions certainly were n't going to help.

Albus sat quietly for a while as they waited for matt to say something. He was still laying on his bed staring at the cap. Kaden kept glancing at Albus and then at Matt and back again. John was playing with a gobstone that he had found on the floor.

lusterlessness sighed and sat up. Albus glanced up from the floor and looked at him. `` You ok ? '' he asked.

`` I guess, '' he nodded, `` I should cause just told you not to hide in that elbow room. ``

Albus nodded and sent Kaden a look so he would n't ask about the room.

`` I do n't know if you guessed what that way is for, '' Matt began, `` But I guess I 'll narrate you. ``

`` You do n't have to, '' Albus said quietly.

`` I know, '' matte sighed, `` But I will, '' he paused, `` That room is where I transform. ``

Albus nodded. That 's what he had guessed. Judging by the calm look on John 's face, he had guessed it too. Kaden on the other hand, was gaping at Matt.

`` postponement, what ? '' he asked.

`` That 's where I go during full moons, '' flatness said.

`` Oh, '' Kaden replied, `` Why is it padded ? ``

Albus groaned inwardly. Kaden really needed to determine not to ask about these sorts of things.

Matt laid back down on his bed and stared at the ceiling. `` Back when I was five and I went through my first shift, I spent the entirely Night ramming into the wall trying to get out. My dad put the padding on the walls before the next wide Sun Myung Moon. Then when we moved here, my dad recreated the same room in the basement of this house. ``

Albus winced at the thought of Matt ramming himself into a wall. Every time Matt told him something else about the full moon moons, Albus felt even distressing for him.

`` Oh, '' Kaden muttered, `` Er, sorry for hiding there, then. ``

lusterlessness sighed, `` It 's ok. I should hold told you not to hide there. ``

`` What about the Shrieking hovel ? '' Kaden asked, `` Is that padded ? ``

`` No, '' Matt replied, `` But it 's bigger, so I do n't roll in the hay my headspring as often. ``

Kaden nodded. `` fountainhead, I ca n't say I 've ever seen a blow up room in anyone else 's house. ``

`` You 'll probably never see one again, '' matt said dryly.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You guys are all awesome !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The remainder of the visit at matt 's firm went by very fast for Albus. Albus and the other son spent the following few mean solar day playing various biz and doing some of the preparation they had put off until the finish minute. Amy visited for dinner one evening and let Kaden brew something in her potions room. Kaden was thrilled and after he and Amy had finished, he pronounced Amy the near potions brewer he 'd met besides Slughorn. Albus, Matt, and John did not participate in the brewing since all three of them got enough of potions at Hogwarts.

Albus threw his bag over his shoulder and went downstairs with flatness, John, and Kaden. Mrs. Eckerton and Amy were waiting by the door.

`` Are you boys ready ? '' Mrs Eckerton asked.

`` Yeah, '' Matt answered.

Mrs. Eckerton opened the door and Albus followed everyone outside. They walked a few meters away from the family and then Mrs. Eckerton put an arm around mat and the former around Albus. Amy did the Lapp with privy and Kaden and all six of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the heart of the Leaky Cauldron, which was practically empty. Albus was n't surprised since it was early afternoon on a weekday. Albus looked around the pub and saw his mum, Uncle Ron, James, rose, Hugo, and Lily sitting at a nearby tabular array. John 's mum and babe were sitting with them. Saint James the Apostle looked bored out of his mind and a little annoyed as John 's sisters ran around the room.

The adult greeted each early while Lily, Hugo, and John 's sister, Ashtyn, flew out of their tush and over to Albus and the other male child. blush wine followed them and stood next to Albus.

`` We 're getting our wand today ! '' Lily announced.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn grinned, `` And books and robe and cauldrons and- ''

`` We know, Ashtyn, '' John groaned, `` You 've been telling me about it since I got plate from school day. ``

`` Me and Lily are going to be in Gryffindor, '' Ashtyn said proudly, `` But Lily says Hugo is going to be in Hufflepuff. ``

`` Am not, '' Hugo retorted.

`` There 's nix legal injury with Hufflepuff, '' Saint John the Apostle said, `` My cousin is in Hufflepuff. ``

`` wellspring, anything 's better than Slytherin, right Albus ? '' Lily said.

`` Er, right, '' Albus agreed.

`` Kids ! '' Ginny shouted, `` We 're going to go to brandish and Blotts first, then brothel keeper Malkins. Al, you need new robes. ``

`` So do you, Rose, '' Ron put in.

`` As do you, Johnny, '' Mrs Brickston said.

`` I want my wand ! '' Lily whined.

`` You 'll get it, '' Ginny said, `` But you need robes too. And your sceptre will be useless without books. ``

Lily pouted and folded her arms across her chest, but followed Ginny out of the pub. Albus and his friends followed the grownup, James River, and the girls out of the pub and into Diagon Alley.

Diagon Alley was a bit more crowd than the Leaky caldron, but still rather deserted. Albus walked with the great group into Flourish and Blotts, where the salesman took one looking at at them and ran into the hind room. He returned with a saleslady.

Ginny walked up to them. `` Let 's see, I have four Hogwarts book lists. ``

`` And I have two, '' Ron rummaged around in his robes and pulled out two wrinkled part of parchment.

`` I 've got two as well, '' Mrs. Brickston said.

`` And I have one, '' Mrs Eckerton said.

`` Ok, if you 'll just give us a few moment, we 'll get them for you, '' the salesman took the list and gave half the push-down store to the saleslady.

`` So, what did you lot do at flatness 's planetary house ? '' rosiness asked as they were waiting.

Albus looked at trick and erupt out laughing. `` John had fun with the microwave oven, '' Albus smirked.

Rose groaned. `` What did you do ? ``

`` Microwaved an egg, '' whoremaster replied, `` It made a squeamish blowup. ``

`` Bet your mum was n't happy, '' pink wine said to Matt.

`` She just made him pick it up. My dad did the Lapp affair after we moved here. We did n't give birth a microwave in Australia, '' lusterlessness said.

`` Muggle studies ought to be mandatory, '' Rose sighed.

Albus spent a few more minutes telling Rose about what they had done at mat 's mansion, although he left out the part about the bolster room. Matt could state rosebush that later if he wanted to.

`` Here you go, Al, '' Ginny dumped a stack of books into Albus 's arms.

Once everyone had a stack of books in their arms, the mathematical group left the book store. They walked down the street until they reached gentlewoman Malkin 's. Luckily, the shop was void, although they 'd stimulate to hold off a while until everyone was fitted for robes.

Lily and Ashtyn went first, since they were eagre to get their new robe. Hugo was excited about going to Hogwarts, but he could n't care less about robes.

Albus sat down on a chair as he waited for his twist. lusterlessness and John sat down on either English of him. Albus glanced over and saw that lusterlessness was staring wide eyed at his stack of record book. Albus peered down at his own mess of record, but the one on top was Intermediate Transfiguration.

Albus looked over at Matt 's stack of record and he gaped when he saw which book was on top. It was the claim same volume that Kaden had found at flourish and Blotts a year ago. The one entitled Dark Creatures : How to Protect Yourself.

`` Interesting book choice, '' Albus muttered.

matt looked up at Albus. `` This does n't bode well for the new Defense Department teacher. ``

Albus shrugged. `` Well, tertiary class defense does rivet on dark creatures. ``

`` It does ? '' Matt groaned, `` Great. That 's just what I need, for everyone to get wind about you know what. ``

`` I doubt they will, '' Albus replied, `` No one 's going to pay that much attention in course. The but one in our yr who would 've put the clues together after learning it in class is pink wine, and she already knows. ``

`` I guess, '' Matt muttered, `` I just hope the teacher is nice. ``

A half hour later, everyone had new robe who needed them and the large group exited Madam Malkin 's. They made their way down the street and towards Olivander 's. Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn arrived before anyone else did and could n't wait to start trying out wands.

Albus watched as his sister waved legion verge and subsequently broke everything on Olivander 's desk. After she tried a few Thomas More, Lily found her baton and proudly held the box as carefully as she could. Hugo and Ashtyn found wands a few minutes later and the radical set off to the Apothecary.

After a visit to the Apothecary, Eyelops, and Weasley 's wizard Wheezes, everyone had what they needed for the upcoming school year. Albus was rather tired by the time they finished, but Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn seemed to have dateless energy. They variety of reminded Albus of the way Kaden had been the previous yr. Granted, Kaden still had endless Energy Department, but the three eleven-year-olds had surpassed him.

Albus said goodby to his protagonist in the Leaky Cauldron and then Flooed back to Grimmauld Place with his mum, Kaden, James, and Lily. He and Kaden watched Lily try to perform magic spell with her new baton while they waited for Dudley to pick Kaden up. Lily was kind of frustrated that she was unable to do much of anything besides 'Lumos'.

******

In an feat to try and stave off nearly missing the train like they had the late year, Ginny insisted that Albus, James, and Lily pack their trunks the Nox before. Despite this, Albus awoke to the shouts of his mother.

`` Albus Severus thrower ! '' she shrieked, `` Get up ! We have to leave in ten arcminute ! I seriously hope you 've got your torso packed ! ``

Albus slowly got out of bed as he listened to the loud footsteps of his mother in the corridor. `` King James Canicula potter ! Get out of bed this instant ! ``

The doorway to his bedroom opened and Lily came bounding in, already dressed in her Hogwarts robes. `` Al ! We 've got to pass on ! ``

`` I know, Lily ! '' Albus said in an annoyed tone, `` Now get out so I can get dressed ! ``

Albus hurriedly threw on some clothes once his sister left. He grabbed his owl batting cage and school bag and quickly left the room. He was quite glad his automobile trunk was packed and already downstairs.

Harry was sitting on top of Albus 's trunk in the drawing room when Albus walked in. Lily was once again trying to perform spells with her wand.

`` Hey, Al, '' Harry grinned, `` set up ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We leaving soon ? ``

`` As soon as James packs his trunk, '' Harry smirked.

`` Henry James Sirius Potter ! '' Ginny shouted from upstairs, `` I told you to pile that finally night ! precipitation up ! ``

`` pappa, why ca n't you instruct Defense this year ? '' Lily asked.

`` Because I have too much piece of work at the Ministry, '' Harry explained as he pulled her onto his lap.

`` But it 's not bazaar, '' Lily whined, `` James and Al got to have you teach them for two yr. ``

`` The new instructor is very competent, '' Harry assured her.

`` Is he nice ? '' Albus asked.

`` fountainhead, he 's, '' Harry paused, `` He 's fair. That 's a adept way of putting it. He 'll treat everyone the same. ``

At to the lowest degree he did n't sound like Washburn, Albus thought. But on the former hand, he did n't sound like Neville or Cedonia either.

`` And just because I 'm not teaching, does n't mean I wo n't be around, '' Harry grinned.

`` What do you mean ? '' Albus asked.

`` I 'm not giving anything away, but Hogwarts will be an exciting stead to be this yr, '' Harry said, `` Plus, the Ministry decided that Hogwarts needs more protection in the form of Aurors after last yr 's incident. And the year before 's. ``

That certainly spiked Albus 's curiosity. What could be going on that would cook Hogwarts more charge up than usual ?

`` come on, '' Albus replied, `` Ca n't you have us a hint ? ``

`` Nope, '' Harry laughed, `` I probably should n't cause even said that. ``

Albus groaned. `` Aw, just recite us. ``

`` William Tell us what ? '' James asked as he entered the room.

`` Dad says something exciting is happening at Hogwarts this yr but he wo n't tell us what. ``

`` Please, Dad ? '' James II whined.

`` No, '' Harry lifted Lily off his lap and stood up, `` Now we 'd meliorate go or you 'll pretermit the train. ``

The Potters arrived on Platform 9 3/4 with fifteen minutes to dispense with, which was actually sooner than they had arrived the previous twelvemonth. They met Kaden and his kinsfolk as well as rosebush, Hugo and their parents. Harry and Ron loaded all the proboscis onto the railroad train and then returned to say goodbye.

`` I 'll see you soon, Al, '' Harry said as he gave Albus a hug.

`` Be sound, Albus, '' Ginny smiled, `` And look at care of Lily. ``

`` I will, '' Albus replied, `` Bye, Mum. Bye, Dad. ``

Once everyone had said goodbye, Albus headed to the train with pink wine and Kaden. Henry James immediately left to see his champion, and Lily and Hugo followed Albus and Rose. They climbed on just before the wagon train started moving and waved to their parents until the train left the station.

Albus peered into all the compartments trying to find the one that his friends were in. He eventually found them halfway down the string and pulled the door open.

`` Hey, '' Albus grinned as he sat down next to Matt.

`` Hi, Albus, Rose, Kaden, '' Matt greeted them.

Kaden sat down next to John and Rose sat following to Amanda. Hugo and Lily sat down near Ashtyn and the three of them immediately started talking about the Sorting and the Hogwarts houses. Albus, who had been listening to Lily talk about that all summer, did not want to participate in that conversation.

He turned to Matt. `` Guess what ? ``

`` What ? '' matte asked.

`` My dad says something exciting is happening at Hogwarts this yr, but he wo n't tell apart me what, '' Albus said.

`` Really ? Wish he 'd tell you what it was, '' Matt replied.

`` How could he say that and not say you ? '' John groaned.

`` Any idea what it is ? '' Matt asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus shook his head and then turned to Rose, `` Has Uncle Ron said anything ? ``

`` Just that it was something exciting, '' Rose sighed, `` The but thing I can call up of is the Triwizard tournament. ``

`` The what ? '' Matt, Amanda, and Kaden asked at the like time.

`` Did n't someone die the last time they had that ? '' John asked.

Albus nodded. `` The Triwizard Tournament is a contest that involves three wizarding school day : Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. A champion from each school participates in three magical task and whichever friend wins gets the Triwizard Cup.

`` The terminal clock time they had it was in my dad 's fourth year and a Death Eater tricked the cup into choosing my dad as a fourth champion. He won, but the other Hogwarts supporter, Cedric Diggory, died during the final exam job. ``

`` Whoa, '' Matt stared at him, `` Do you really think they 'd do that again ? ``

`` No, '' rose shook her head, `` There 's no way they 'd do that again. At least not for years. Cedric 's death is too refreshing in a lot of people 's minds to have that tournament again. So I have no idea what my dad and Uncle Harry were talking about. ``

`` I wish they 'd do the tourney again, '' John said, `` I fancy myself as the Hogwarts champion. ``

`` Me, too, '' Kaden grinned, `` That would be brilliant. ``

`` Not me, '' Albus shook his straits. He hated being in the spotlight. `` I bet James would do it, though. ``

`` I would n't, '' Matt said.

`` Me, either, '' Amanda agreed, `` What about you, Rose ? ``

`` I 'd probably inscribe, '' blush wine replied, `` But last-place clock time they did it, you had to be xvii. So even if that is what was going on this class, none of us would be capable to put down. ``

`` I bet Georgia would record, '' Albus commented.

`` No question about that, '' rosiness agreed.

`` Oh, and my dad knows who the new Defense instructor is, '' Albus announced.

`` Is he nice ? '' Matt asked immediately.

`` All my dad said was that he was middling, '' Albus sighed, `` He variety of dodged the inquiry when I asked if he was nice. ``

`` That 's a bad signal, '' Matt groaned.

`` If he 's average, then he wo n't be favoring the Slytherins, '' privy pointed out.

`` Have you looked at that book yet ? '' Albus whispered to Matt.

`` Nope, '' matt replied, `` Have n't wanted to. ``

`` fountainhead, '' John began, `` If he 's mean to you, we can try and get him raped before he starts the you-know-what whole. That social unit 's not until the end of the yr. ``

`` And how are you going to do that ? '' pink wine raised her eyebrows.

`` Dunno, '' bathroom shrugged, `` We 'll reckon of something. ``

`` That, '' Rose sighed, `` Has got to be the dumb estimate you 've come up with. And that includes microwaving the egg. ''

`` Well, have you got any full ideas ? '' toilet asked.

`` Why do n't we just delay and see what the teacher is like before we start thinking about getting him sacked ? '' Rose suggested.

The rest of the train drive passed quickly. The entire compartment participated in an Exploding Snap contest, which Rose won. Then they bought a tumid measure of snacks from the trolley car. Albus fell asleep shortly after he finished eating and the next thing he knew, rose wine was nudging him awake and telling him to change into his robes.

The sky had turned sour and the weather stormy while Albus had been sleeping. Thunder sounded and lightning flashed as he pulled on his gown. He was very glad he was n't going to be crossing the Black Lake like Lily was. He 'd much rather take a thestral-pulled pushchair and stay dry.

The gear pulled into Hogsmeade station and Albus joined the throngs of bookman heading out into the rainy weather. He heard Hagrid calling the outset years and said goodbye to Lily, Victor Hugo, and Ashtyn. Albus found an vacate baby carriage and led his supporter inside.

`` The commencement age are going to get soaked, '' John said as he wrung out his hat onto the keister of the carriage.

`` Spooky crossing the lake in this weather, '' Kaden grinned, `` make me wish I was crossing the lake. ``

`` Maybe the Giant calamary will tip over one of the boats, '' John grinned mischievously, `` I 've heard it does n't like this sort of weather. ``

Rose rolled her eyes. `` The Squid is not going to flip one of the boat. ``

If the squid tipped Lily 's boat, she would freak out. Albus 's sister had always scared easily, a trait that Henry James and Albus always took broad advantage of.

`` James purposely tipped his gravy holder when he crossed the lake, '' Albus said. He still remembered his mother receiving an owl telling her about that. She wasted no fourth dimension in getting a howler off to James.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` wish I 'd thought of that. ``

`` Me, too ! '' John agreed.

`` I 'm beaming you did n't, '' Albus laughed, `` We all would throw been soaked. ``

`` Yeah, '' Matt agreed, `` That would not have been pleasant. ``

The remnant of the trip up to the palace was spent discussing the likelihood of one of the boats being tipped over by the Giant Squid. John and Kaden decided that they wanted to find the Giant Squid that year and agreed to take a swim in the Black Lake during the first gear usable weekend.

The entire entrance Hall was covered in water by the time Albus and his friends entered the castling. Albus was sure Filch would have got a hippogriff when he saw it. Albus led his friends to the intimate Gryffindor board and sat down, eager for the banquet to start.

Albus scanned the faculty board and his eyes rested on the alone unfamiliar face. A quarter looking man with his Shirley Temple Black hair cut in a Muggle war machine vogue was sitting completely still. His eyes seemed to interpenetrate every scholarly person in the intact room at the same time. Albus did not get the sense that this teacher would be squeamish, although he lacked the hatred that Washburn had emanated.

`` That must be the new Defense teacher, '' Matt whispered to Albus, `` Merlin, he does not look happy. ``

`` tone like his typeface is frozen that way, '' Kaden muttered.

`` I would n't want to be on his bad English, '' Albus replied.

`` Looks to me like he had a bit too much U-No-Poo, '' John the Evangelist laughed.

Albus snorted and shook his head. It did sort of look like the prof had a bit too much of that sure Weasley product. His Uncle Percy wore that same look when his Uncle George put U-No-Poo in his tea over the summer.

The Great manor hall immediately quieted down as Professor Patil led the first years into the way and towards the staff table. They congregated near the three-legged stool upon which the sort Hat sat.

`` They look shorter than last year 's first years, '' John whispered as the Sorting Hat began singing.

`` They are, '' Kaden agreed, `` I was n't that short last yr. ``

`` Yeah, you actually were, '' John replied, `` Hey, matt, I think these first years might actually be myopic than you. A few of them, that is. ``

lusterlessness rolled his eyes. `` At least I 'm not a Giraffa camelopardalis like you. ``

`` Hey, height has its benefit, '' trick retorted.

`` And so does deficiency of stature, '' lusterlessness pointed out, `` At least I did n't stimulate to brook still while madam Malkin poked me with needles like you did. ``

`` Shush ! '' Rose hissed, `` They 're starting the classification ! ``

Albus watched as a chubby boy was sorted into Ravenclaw. The future number one twelvemonth became a Slytherin and the succeeding was another Ravenclaw.

`` Brickston, Ashtyn ! '' Patil announced.

John the Divine 's sister ran forward and jammed the hat onto her head with a big grin on her nerve. Mere seconds later, the hat exclaimed, `` Gryffindor ! '' Ashtyn practically flew across the room and sat down across from John.

`` kudos, Ashtyn ! '' Saint John the Apostle grinned, `` Gryffindor really is the best home. ``

`` Yeah, '' Ashtyn agreed, `` Although Isabelle kept telling me to hope for Hufflepuff. ``

`` Well, she is a Hufflepuff .... ''

Albus did n't really pay attending to the next few Sortings. He vaguely recognized a few figure, but did n't really roll in the hay any of them. He snapped back into reality when he heard Patil announce, `` Potter, Lily ! ``

Lily ran forward with almost as much excitement as Ashtyn. The hat took a fiddling more clip to decide than it had with Ashtyn, but it soon shouted, `` Gryffindor ! ``

The Gryffindor tabular array erupted with sunshine as Lily ran towards it. Albus clapped her on the back, as did James and all their cousin, and Lily took a rump side by side to Ashtyn.

Soon, Hugo was the only first yr left standing near the hat. Victor Hugo had already started putting the hat on when Patil called out his name, which caused a few of Albus 's full cousin to collapse out in laughter.

`` He may be the only Weasley to ever be in Hufflepuff, '' Cedric smirked.

`` Gryffindor ! '' the hat announced a moment later.

`` Or not, '' Cedric grinned as he clapped along with everyone else.

Victor-Marie Hugo sat across from Lily and Ashtyn. `` Told you I 'd be in Gryffindor, '' he said to Lily. Lily shrugged.

prof Kendrick stood up. `` Welcome, students and stave ! As usual, I will save all the oral communication making for after the fete. '' He waved his wand and sat back down.

food appeared on all the gilded plates and Albus helped himself to some of everything. He was hungry, although this year he had form of wanted Kendrick to announce what the sex affair was before the feast.

The topics of word varied greatly during the feast, and Albus mostly listened. St. John the Apostle and Matt had a heated argument about the Quidditch season, primarily the Chudley Cannons'spectacular going to the Holyhead harpy eagle that had taken place a few days previously. rise up chattered non-stop about the new classes she was taking and bombarded her older first cousin with enquiry about them. Albus was amazed she had any questions left, since she had done the same thing during the Weasley kinsperson Dinner prior to the start of term.

Kaden talked to whoever would take heed about the prospect of adding Muggle engineering science to Hogwarts. Albus groaned to himself as he heard Kaden tell one of the offset old age about his petition to have telly put into the common elbow room. Amanda listened to Kaden, although it did n't seem like she was nearly as energize as Kaden was.

`` So, how was the trip across the lake ? '' John asked Ashtyn as the desserts appeared.

`` Wet, '' Ashtyn replied.

`` Any of the boats tip over ? '' he asked eagerly.

`` No, '' Ashtyn laughed.

`` Hagrid said he had anti-tipping magical spell put on them after Saint James the Apostle tipped his a few yr ago, '' Victor Hugo announced.

`` That 's no fun, '' John the Divine sighed.

A little while later, the golden plate became fairly once again and Albus looked eagerly up at the stave table.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and thanks as well to all the awesome readers and reviewers !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


professor Kendrick rose to his infantry. `` May I have your attention ! '' he shouted and the room quieted down, `` Thank you. Now, I have a few rather boring annunciation, two somewhat charge up 1, and one really exciting one. I shall start with the boring ones.

`` As usual, the forest and Whomping willow are out of leap to everyone. If you wish to try-out for your firm 's Quidditch squad, open your figure to your top dog of mansion. The Dueling Club and Junior 's Dueling cabaret will be starting up again and once meeting have been set up, I shall let you know.

`` As for the somewhat exciting announcements, we have a new Defense Against the iniquity Arts teacher. Please welcome Professor Balladanis. ``

The rear end looking professor stood up for a few seconds and received mediocre applause. He resumed his rump and professor Kendrick turned back to the students.

`` The other somewhat interesting annunciation is that Hogwarts will be patrolled by Aurors a few days a week. After last year 's incident, the Ministry has deemed this a requirement care to require. The Aurors are positive that Jarrett Willinson and Jameson Washburn will try to return to Hogwarts at some breaker point this yr. I do not tell you this to scare you, but to make you aware of the situation. If anyone sees any suspect conduct or has any information regarding the whereabouts of either fleer, please recount a instructor. ``

The entire Gryffindor table turned to Albus and his acquaintance at this announcement. Albus felt his nerve turn red and he stared down at his plate. He really hated all the attention he got from what happened the previous two years.

`` And now, '' Kendrick continued, `` I have a very exciting announcement to make. ``

Albus grinned and turned to his friends, who were all wearing match faces of excitement, and then turned back to the headmaster.

`` First, I would like you all to think back the inter-house dueling from endure year. ``

The entire residence groaned and people started whispering amongst themselves.

`` Quiet down, '' Kendrick said, `` There was a cause why I enacted that last class. more than than just school day ace, that is. I wanted the school to go more join because of an effect that is taking plaza this twelvemonth. An event that will put us into contest with other wizardly schools- ''

`` The Triwizard tourney ? ! '' Tom Bradley exclaimed, `` Is that it ? ``

`` No, '' Kendrick replied, `` This is not the Triwzard Tournament. It is a different contention that will involve more than just one student from each school day.

`` Tomorrow evening, shortly before dinner, a choice grouping of scholarly person from the Adirondack Academy of legerdemain, which is in New York State Department, and the Australian schoolhouse of Sorcery will jaunt to Hogwarts, where they will inhabit and assist stratum for the continuance of the year. ``

Albus turned to await at lusterlessness, who was gaping at Kendrick.

`` The bookman from both school will be Sorted into the four Hogwarts mansion during a special sorting ceremony tomorrow evening. They will live in whichever house they are Sorted into and look socio-economic class with those in their year. I expect you all to handle them like they are fellow Hogwarts students.

`` However, you will also be competing against them. There are two upshot. The first is Qudditch. Each of the schools has created a Quidditch squad comprised of the honorable Quidditch musician in their various shoal. We will be doing the same thing here. The three team will wreak each other throughout the year and whichever squad wins shall receive the Quidditch Cup for Schools.

`` The other event will be dueling. Each of the school has also put together a squad of the trump duellist in their respective school. Again, we shall do the same. The tournaments will exercise much like the Dueling Club works here. ``

The entire school started talking at once. Albus thought the whole matter was magnificent. It was like the Triwizard tourney, only less dangerous. Maybe he could even enter. He was a decent chaser and dueler.

`` Albus, you 've got to try out for the Hogwarts Quidditch team ! '' John the Divine shouted.

`` I will ! '' Albus grinned, `` As long as they do n't ingest an age bound or anything. ``

`` I do n't think they will, '' Rose said, `` Quidditch is n't that dangerous. ``

`` It variety of is, '' privy laughed.

`` Maybe I can duel, '' Kaden said, `` I 'm a second year now. ``

`` I think it 'll be big just to go to school with kids from Australia and New York ! '' rose wine exclaimed, `` Think of all we can learn from them ! ``

`` Yeah, '' Amanda agreed.

`` Quiet ! '' Kendrick shouted over the chattering and everyone settled down, `` The Hogwarts Quidditch team is open to anyone who is currently on a firm Quidditch team. I 'm sorry if that upsets some of you, but it would be impossible to admit try-outs for the entire school, and I think it would be better if our team were comprised of those who have experience on a Quidditch team. If you have pastime in trying out, delight state your nous of sign.

`` Try-outs for the Hogwarts Dueling team will be unresolved to fifth through one-seventh years only. ``

`` poop, '' Kaden muttered.

`` If you want to try out, give your figure to your nous of house. Try-outs for both squad will most likely be next weekend. I believe that is all I have to say for now. First twelvemonth, delight observe a prefect to your common way. unspoiled night, everyone. ``

Albus got up from the table and walked to Gryffindor pillar with his supporter. They talked about the competition the entire time. Albus was incredibly excited about the outlook of playing for the Hogwarts Quidditch squad, and a little anxious at the same time. Of path, his chances of getting picked were form of slim. He was the youngest chaser eligible to try out.

`` Albus ! '' Saint James the Apostle pushed his way through the crowd of Gryffindors in the common elbow room, `` Are you trying out ? ``

`` Of course of study ! '' Albus grinned, `` You ? ``

`` Yeah ! '' Henry James exclaimed, `` That 's everybody ! Everyone on the Gryffindor team is trying out ! Would n't that be amazing if we were all picked ? ``

`` You wo n't be, '' blush wine said, `` The wholly point is to have a Hogwarts team, not a Gryffindor team. ``

`` Albus and James will get picked, '' Kaden said adamantly, `` You two are both cracking Quidditch players. ``

`` Thanks, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` But all the other Chasers are Old than me. ``

`` DOE n't matter, '' lav assured him, `` They 'll be searching for skill, not age. ``

`` Who 's picking the team ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Probably Professor Oteski, '' Jesse James said, `` And maybe the head teacher of houses will avail. ``

Albus and his booster talked about the Quidditch competition for another few hour before retiring to their dormitories for the night. Albus climbed into his familiar four-poster bed, but found that he was too excited to catch some Z's. The more he thought about the Hogwarts Quidditch squad, the more he thought he actually had a chance of making it. He was also excited about having the Australian and American English scholar at Hogwarts. He had n't really met many foreign witches and hotshot before, not including his Aunt Fleur 's mob. lusterlessness and Amy and their parents were the closest he 'd come, and they 'd been living in England for a patch. Matt did n't seem very aroused about the unscathed thing, though. In fact, he had remained rather quiet ever since Kendrick made the announcement.

******

It was well-to-do to feel the exhilaration at Hogwarts the following day. Since it was Sunday, classes were n't starting yet. near people slept late, and the master topic of conversation in the Great vestibule at lunchtime was the competition and the scholarly person from Australia and New York.

Sakartvelo organized a spur of the import Quidditch practice for the Gryffindor team in order to prepare for the Hogwarts Team try-outs. Albus and the rest of the team practiced for at to the lowest degree two hours that afternoon.

`` You 're a shoo-in, James, '' Albus told his brother as the two of them began to walk off the lurch, `` Everyone knows you 're the sound Seeker in the school. ``

`` Well, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw are the lone other family that are keeping their Seekers from cobbler's last twelvemonth, '' Henry James pointed out, `` So I 'll only be competing against Lisa Galivant and Miranda Corner. ``

`` And you 're good than both of them, '' Albus said, `` I 'll be competing against at least six other chaser. ``

`` Yeah, but you 're a good Chaser, '' Saint James the Apostle assured him.

Albus nodded and shouldered his broom. He was already spooky about the try-out, and it was almost a week away. What if he was so nervous during the try-out that he completely messed up ? He 'd just experience to be certainly to calm down by then. Albus sighed and continued walking off the slant. Just as he was getting close to the stands, he noticed soul sitting alone in the downhearted tier. It was Matt.

`` I 'll see you back in the common room, '' Albus said to his brother as he detoured towards the rack. St. James nodded and continued back towards the castle.

lustrelessness had hardly said a parole the entire day. He was normally quiet, but it was never a good sign when he was completely silent. Albus knew estimable than to ask why, but he was still curious. He had a intuitive feeling it had to do with the Australian students.

`` Hey, '' Albus sat down next to Matt.

`` Hi, '' Matt mumbled.

`` Where 's everyone else ? '' Albus asked.

`` Rose is in the library researching about the magical school in Australia and New York, '' Matt explained, `` Amanda is with her. ``

`` Why does that not surprise me, '' Albus smirked, `` I 'm assuming John is n't with them ? ``

`` No, '' matte gave a half-hearted jest, `` He and Kaden are in the predator 's Den. I was there with them, but they kept talking about Quidditch and Dueling contender and I just got purge of it, so I came out here. ``

Albus nodded. lustrelessness was going to stimulate a knockout time finding someplace in the school where no one was talking about the competitions.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively, `` I mean, you 've been sort of quiesce. ``

Matt sighed. `` I, '' he paused, `` I 'm just not that excited about the competition thing. Well, it 's not that, it 's the fact that we 're doing it with Australia. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, not for certain what to say next.

`` I was supposed to go to the Australian School of Sorcery, '' flatness continued, `` That 's where Amy went. Then the headmaster told my parents I could n't. In fact, he said it in a downright cruel way. I never read that letter. I think Mum burned it. But she never told me what it said. She just said it was mean. The headmaster hates, well, people like me. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. He turned to count at flatness. He looked quite upset about the whole thing. Albus had no theme what to say.

`` I do n't require the headmaster to get here, '' lustrelessness said quietly, `` I know that 's stupid, really. I mean, he 's never met me. And we moved five years ago. He probably would n't even greet my last figure. ``

`` It 's not stupid, '' Albus assured him. Albus could n't really imagine what this was like for flatness, though. He supposed the only thing close would be if Washburn came back to learn or something. `` But I do n't think you 'll really number into contact with their headmaster much. You ca n't try out for the Quidditch squad or the Dueling Team, so I do n't think you 'll do much more than base on balls him in the corridor. ``

`` I guess, '' matt sighed, `` It 's just going to be so Weird. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` But I do n't conceive anything will take place. This is Kendrick 's school day. Even if the Australian headmaster is here, he ca n't really do anything. He 's got no dominance over anything here. ``

matt nodded. `` That 's true. I had n't really thought about that. ``

Albus stood up. `` cum on, let 's go find John and Kaden. I 'm sure we can win over them not to talk about the competition. We could ask them how their programme for swimming in the Negro Lake are coming. ``

Matt laughed, `` They 're all make to do it. They just did n't want to do it today since you were practicing Quidditch and Rose and Amanda were in the subroutine library. ``

The rest of the afternoon went by very quickly. Shortly before dinner, Albus and his friends made their way into the Great Hall. The entire room was buzzing with fervour. Albus noticed that nearly all of the professor were wearing dress robe. The but one who was n't was Professor Balladanis, who as wearing the Saami black gown as the previous day.

Albus sat down at the Gryffindor table, where everyone was talking about the foreign schools.

`` I heard that the Australian School of Sorcery is secret ! '' Victor Hugo shouted excitedly.

Matt snorted. `` It 's not. ``

`` Oh, maybe it was the Adirondack Academy of legerdemain, '' Hugo replied.

`` That one 's not hole-and-corner either, '' Matt laughed.

`` How do you know they 're not ? '' Hugo asked.

`` My sister used to go to the Aussie School of Sorcery, '' matt explained, `` And my uncle lives in New House of York. I 've seen that shoal, too. ``

`` Well, that 's boring, '' Hugo muttered, `` Would hold been better if one of them was metro. ``

`` Hey, Hugo, '' Kaden grinned, `` guess what the initials of Aboriginal Australian school day of Sorcery are ? ``

`` A, S, S, '' Hugo shrugged and then a big grin appeared on his facial expression, `` Ass ! That 's brilliant ! ``

`` Quiet, please ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crowd, `` The student from the Adirondack Academy of magic trick shall be arriving at any moment ! ``

No Sooner had Kendrick finished his sentence, people began to whisper and release their heads towards the door. Albus craned his head up and saw a tall man striding into the Great Hall. He was wearing naval forces blueish robes and had a rather large sum of money of messy gray hair on his head. Behind him were a XII or so students wearing indistinguishable blue robe. most of the students looked to be a few long time sr. than Albus. They all stared around at the Great anteroom, a twosome of them pointing excitedly at the cap.

The grandiloquent man ( who Albus presumed to be their schoolmaster ) led the students to the staff board. Kendrick greeted them and then looked up at his own students.

`` Let me inclose Professor Marvin Henry M. Robert, master of the Adirondack Academy of Magic, and his students, '' Kendrick announced, `` Welcome to Hogwarts. ``

Albus and the rest of the Hogwarts pupil body burst into applause. Once it died down, Kendrick opened his sassing again.

`` And now, if I 'm not mistaken, the students from the Aboriginal Australian School of Sorcery are arriving at the very bit. ``

Albus turned back towards the door and saw another man entering the room. He wore emerald green gown and was completely barefaced. He made up for the deficiency of hair on his head by sporting a pointy mustache and goatee. He was n't nearly as improbable as Richard J. Roberts, but not short either. He walked purposefully towards the staff board with his group of bookman clad in matching emerald green robes following him.

Albus noticed that Matt did n't take his centre off the man. It was almost like he was frozen in spot, except for his optic, which followed the man to the staff tabular array.

`` Now I 'll introduce Professor Addair Killigan, '' Kendrick said, `` And the bookman of the Aussie School of Sorcery. ``

Albus clapped along with everyone else, but it was more subdued. He took an immediate dislike to Killigan just because of what Matt had said. Albus noticed that matte did n't really clap at all.

`` Thank you, '' Kendrick said once the clapping stopped, `` Now, we shall experience a exceptional classification ceremonial in order to come up out which house you belong in. The four houses are Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, and Slytherin. While you are here at Hogwarts, you will populate in your house dormitory, spend free time in your firm coarse way, and attend classes with the early scholar in your menage. ``

`` You know, it 'll be interesting to see if they adopt the star sign prejudice like we have, '' Rose whispered, `` What if two of them are really undecomposed friends and then one is sorted into Gryffindor and the other into Slytherin ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged. Rose had a point, though.

`` To be Sorted, all you have to do is put on the Sorting Hat, '' Kendrick continued, `` It will separate you where you should be. ``

professor Patil stood up and walked around to the other side of the staff table. She was holding the three-legged feces and the sorting Hat. She set the hat down on the stool and it burst into song.

There were tatty gasp from all of the bookman from the other two school day. A few of the Hogwarts pupil giggled at this. All the foreign students stared intently at the hat and whispered amongst themselves.

`` When I call your name, come sit on the stool and put on the hat. It will tell you which home you 're in and then you can go sit at the capture mesa, '' Patil said after the hat stopped singing. `` Allen, Gregory. ``

A tall and lanky boy with mussy dark-brown fuzz stepped away from the mathematical group and sat down on the stool. He was wearing Navy blue robes, so he must cause been from New York.

`` Slytherin ! '' the hat shouted. Gregory Allen Stewart Konigsberg took the hat off and went to join the Slytherin table.

The categorisation continued and Albus clapped loudly whenever anyone got Sorted into Gryffindor. So far, all the new Gryffindors looked at least two long time older than Albus.

`` I think that fella is going to make to lose the green robes, '' John commented as one of the Australian students was Sorted into Gryffindor, `` It 's just not formula to wear super C gown when you 're a Gryffindor. ``

`` I imagine they 'll get Gryffindor robes soon, '' rosiness said.

`` Do they even have house at the Australian School of Sorcery ? '' Saint John wondered aloud, `` I mean, all their robe look alike. ``

`` They do, '' Matt told him, `` But those are the plain school robe. ``

`` I 'm guessing they wanted to depend unified, '' Rose suggested, `` I doubt Albus will wear Gryffindor Quidditch gown when he plays on the house team. They 'll probably have peculiar Hogwarts robe. ``

`` If I 'm on the squad, rose wine, '' Albus sighed. Everyone seemed to think he was going to create the team. What if he did n't ? Everyone would be disappointed. Albus did n't really like the pressure.

`` Morales, Linda, '' Patil shouted.

Albus turned back to the categorisation and saw a rather brusque little girl step forward. Albus watched as she walked towards the three-legged stool and he could n't take his eyes off her. She was beautiful. There was n't really any former way to describe her. Albus had n't ever seen a lady friend as pretty as she was. Her dark brownness hair cascaded down her back in lenient waving. It did n't quite match her surprisingly pale skin, but it was beautiful nonetheless. Her low-cal skin went well with her emerald green robe. She looked a bit neural as she sat down and Patil dropped the hat on her head.

Albus turned to look at his admirer. lusterlessness, John, and Kaden were all staring at the fille. So was James. In fact, all the male child at the Gryffindor table seemed to be staring at her. The girls were whispering to each early and glancing up at Linda team spirit every so often.

The hat seemed to be taking incessantly to decide. The total Great Hall had erupted in whispering. Finally, the lip of the hat volley open and shouted out, `` Gryffindor ! ``

Linda Morales took off the hat and walked quickly towards the Gryffindor table.

`` Bloody blaze, '' John whispered as she took a rump a few billet down from Albus.

Albus nodded and turned to calculate at the miss. She looked, if potential, even more uneasy now that she was sitting down.

`` Albus ! '' blush wine seethed, `` Do n't stare at her ! ``

Albus shook his heading to crystallize his thoughts and tried to turn his attention back to the Sorting. A little while later, the last educatee was Sorted into Hufflepuff and Patil and the other headmasters took tooshie behind the faculty table.

Kendrick stood up. `` I 'm sure enough you are all quite famished by now, so without further ado, dinner is served. '' Kendrick waved his baton and the golden plates filled with food.

None of the new students had sat near Albus and his friends, so they did n't get a chance to really get to know any of them. well-nigh of them were sure-enough anyway. Albus 's cousin-german struck up conversations with a few of them, though. Albus did bill that Linda was n't saying much, despite the fact that she had quite a few Gryffindors trying to talk to her.

`` wellspring, I certainly hope everyone enjoyed the feast, '' Kendrick announced after the plates cleaned themselves of sweet, `` I have just a few announcement. The new scholarly person need to take up government note of the fact that the woods and the Whomping willow are out of bounds. There is also a rather large list of nix objects. The entire list can be viewed on the caretaker 's door, which is located on this level. Or, you can ask your fellow students. Anyone with the last figure of Weasley has a particularly extensive noesis on the subject. ``

There was a large amount of laughter at this, mostly from the Gryffindor table.

`` Also, try-outs for the Hogwarts Quidditch team will be held this Sabbatum at one in the good afternoon. Dueling Team try-outs will be held a week from today, also at one in the good afternoon. And with that, I suggest you all turn in early, as stratum start tomorrow. ``

When Albus and his friends returned to the Gryffindor common room, Linda Morales was already there, surrounded by a rather large group of boys and a couple girls. She did n't appear to be enjoying it, though. She looked as nervous as she had been in the Great Hall and was mostly just nodding.

`` I 'll bet anything all those feller have asked her out already, '' Rose muttered as they watched the group.

`` Probably, '' Amanda agreed.

`` They should just go away her alone, '' Rose went on, `` It does n't look like she wants all that attention. I 'll bet she 's overwhelmed by everything. ``

`` I wonder how old she is, '' Albus said. He 'd been trying to work out that out all evening.

`` Dunno, '' Rose shrugged, `` She looks our age, but older at the same fourth dimension. It 's kind of odd. ``

`` Guess we 'll find out out tomorrow, '' Albus said, `` She might be in our classes. ``

`` Well, I 'm going to bed, '' flatness turned away from Linda and stood up.

`` He 's been quiet all eventide, '' John commented as Matt left.

Albus leaned over to John. `` That Killigan bloke, the headmaster, is the reason he could n't go to schoolhouse in Australia, '' Albus whispered.

`` Oh, '' whoremaster said, `` Well, that would explain it. ``

Albus and his supporter stayed up for a few more minutes before turning in for the Night. Albus laid awake for a while, though, thinking about Linda Morales.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awe-inspiring people who have read and reviewed this !


Dislcaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


As it turned out, Albus did n't cause to waitress until classes to know if Linda Morales was his age or not. Rose and Amanda burst out of the missy'student residence as Albus, matt, and John the Evangelist were heading down to breakfast.

`` Albus ! '' Rose caught up with him, `` Linda is our age. She 's in our dormitory room. ``

`` Really ? '' Albus replied, realizing that he had n't really thought about which dormitory the new students would be in.

`` Where is she now ? '' John asked.

`` Still up there, '' Amanda said, `` She 's been in the can for long time. ``

`` girl, '' John muttered, `` I 'll never understand them. ``

The group hurried down to the Great dorm and ate a quick breakfast before their first category. Neville handed out agenda and Albus saw that he had caution of Magical tool first.

`` Blimey, this schedule is packed, '' St. John the Apostle said as they headed out of the castle towards Hagrid 's hut.

`` fountainhead, we are taking two extra classes now, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Wonder who we 'll let this form with, '' matte said.

`` With our luck, it 'll be the Slytherins, '' Amanda groaned.

`` Maybe Linda 's taking this socio-economic class, '' Saint John the Apostle said hopefully.

Amanda sighed, `` You have n't even met her. ``

`` Yeah, but this class would be the perfect time to do that ! '' John pointed out.

Amanda groaned and they continued their trek to Hagrid 's hut. Once they got there, they saw that they were indeed with the Slytherins. Albus groaned inwardly and stood with his protagonist as everyone waited for Hagrid to appear.

`` 'Ello, everyone ! '' Hagrid said as he stepped out of his hut a few minutes later, `` Welcome to Care o'Magical fauna. ``

`` Hi, Hagrid, '' Albus grinned.

`` 'Ello, Albus, '' Hagrid grinned back, `` Now, today 's lesson 's abou'Flobberworms. Can anyone tell me anything abou'them ? ``

Flobberworms, Albus thought. Flobberworms were about the least exciting magical creatures in the humankind. Albus wished they were doing something a bit more shake.

`` Nobody ? '' Hagrid said, `` Well, I know they are n't the most excitin'tool, but we 've got to start somewhere. Now, flobberworms are small clean insect .... ''

Albus listened as Hagrid explained about flobberworms, but he did n't hold any bank bill. rose wine would have, but Albus did n't see the breaker point. Flobberworms were pretty basic.

`` Now, everyone can take a worm, '' Hagrid held up a box, `` An'get out them into yer line an'observe 'em. ``

Albus and his friends each took a worm and began the wearisome chore of recording the worms'every movement and sketching them. Albus thought the relief of the class was rather boring and was a bit let down. He had variety of been expecting Hagrid to contribute in some sort of dangerous beast, like he had when his dad was at Hogwarts. Although, occur to think of it, his cousin-german had said Hagrid had adopted a more normal curriculum.

`` I wish Hagrid would bring in a flying lizard or something, '' John said as they made their way back to the palace for Transfiguration.

`` He probably wishes that, too, '' Albus laughed.

The Transfiguration classroom was already filling up by the time Albus and his Quaker entered. Albus noticed that they had this class with the Hufflepuffs. rosiness was already inside, sitting at her usual table in the front. Amanda quickly joined her. Linda was there as well, but she was sitting by herself at the other forepart desk.

`` Let 's go sit by Linda ! '' John the Divine said excitedly.

`` Sure, '' Albus grinned and started to walk towards her table.

`` postponement, '' lustrelessness said, `` There 's only two ass. And do you really want to sit in the movement ? ``

`` Er, that 's true, '' John said, `` We 'll sit behind her then. ``

Albus vaguely wondered why matte so set on not sitting with Linda, but he did n't lie on it and sat down at the table behind Linda. Patil walked in a minute later and everyone quieted down.

`` For the 1st few family we shall be learning about a very hard branch of transfiguration, '' Patil said after she took attendance, `` And it is called the Animagus Transfiguration. Can anyone tell me what that is ? ``

Albus smirked as Rose 's hand scene into the air. Albus knew the response, of course, but he was perfectly happy to let rose wine answer.

`` Yes, fille Morales ? '' Patil pointed to Linda.

Albus turned away from Rose and saw that Linda had half-way raised her hand. The sleep of the family was staring at her as well, probably because rosebush always answered the preliminary enquiry in class.

`` The Animagus Transfiguration is the act of transfiguring oneself into an animal, '' Linda answered.

`` Yes, that is set, '' Patil smiled.

Albus noticed that Rose was staring in jounce at Linda. He had to muffle a gag at this.

Patil went on to describe Animagi in to a greater extent detail and Albus took a few notes.

`` Can anyone gens a registered Animagus they may have heard about in another form ? '' Patil asked.

Both Rose and Linda 's hands shot up into the air. Patil called on Rose this time.

`` Minerva McGonagall, '' blush wine answered.

`` Yes, she turns into a cat. She used to teach metamorphosis here and was the Headmistress for a few years. How about an illegal Animagus ? ``

Albus scribbled the give-and-take 'Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs'onto a small-arm of parchment and showed it to Matt and John. All three of them stifled laugh and then looked back up at Patil.

`` Rita Skeeter, '' Rose grinned.

Patil smiled. `` Yes, and it was your mother who discovered her. ``

The rest period of the class passed by at a reasonably quick rate and once it was over, Albus and his ally went to the Great Hall for lunch.

`` You 've got some competition, Rose, '' John grinned as they walked down the corridor.

`` Shut up, '' Rose muttered.

`` She might dumbfound you on the adjacent mental test, '' St. John the Apostle laughed.

`` And your degree is ? '' Rose snapped.

They walked the rest of the way in muteness, as no one wanted to set Rose off even more. Albus had no idea she would get that competitive about grades. Although after two long time of easily being the wise in their year, rosiness had n't previously had any competition.

Half the Gryffindor table was roaring with laughter when they arrived for lunch. Henry James quickly filled Albus in on the fact that Hugo had exploded his for the first time potion earlier in the first light and was apparently quite proud of it.

`` Well, you 'll have no rival from him, '' John muttered to pink wine. blush wine sent him a sear look and sat down to eat.

Albus spent dejeuner telling Kaden about aid of Magical Creatures. Despite the fact that they learned about flobberworms, Kaden was jealous.

The third year Gryffindors had double potions after luncheon, with the Slytherins again. Slughorn started the course with a review of the previous twelvemonth 's potions. Once again, Rose and Linda both knew the answer to every enquiry. Then, when Slughorn had them brew a new potion, both rose and Linda tied for best potion. Slughorn gave them each a bar of Honeyduke 's cocoa. Albus was quite surprised that Linda seemed as smart as rose wine. He had never met anyone his age who could compete with Rose with ground level. john was right. originate did receive some competition.

******

`` Well, time to go meet the new DoD teacher, '' Albus said as he finished breakfast the adjacent morning.

`` I wish your dad was still teaching, '' Matt sighed.

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` The new teacher looks like the kind of lad who gives a lot of homework. ``

`` You really ought to just hold open an open creative thinker, '' rose wine commented as they left the Great Hall.

`` Easy for you to say, '' toilet muttered, `` You 're freakishly bright. ``

`` You have got to be kidding me ! '' Albus groaned as they reached the classroom, `` We 're with the Slytherins, again ! ``

`` Great, '' Matt sighed, `` Three years in a row, what are the hazard of that ? ``

Albus led the way into the classroom. Linda Morales was already seated at one of the front mesa. Rose and Amanda immediately took the other front table.

`` Let 's sit in the backrest, '' lustrelessness muttered.

Albus nodded. He really did n't want to sit near the front. The teacher was already there and was wearing an unreadable verbal expression. If he turned out to be mean, Albus preferred to be as far away as possible.

The schoolroom looked exactly the same as it had the year before, except for a proboscis that was sitting in forepart of the teacher 's desk.

A few Thomas More students trickled in and once the bell rang, the instructor waved his wand and the door slammed loudly. Albus jumped in surprisal and snapped his attention back to the new teacher.

He walked slowly from behind his desk and stood in front of it. He was holding a patch of lambskin and a quill feather. Albus noticed that he was wearing the same black robes, except now he noticed that there were intricately designed fluent fixing on them.

`` Please raise your hand and say 'present'when I call your name, '' he said in a stern vox. He ran through the list, fixing each student with a piercing regard when he called on them.

`` Brilliant, '' he said flatly, `` All here. I am professor Balladanis, as you all know from Professor Kendrick 's actor's line. You will address me as prof Balladanis, or professor, or Sir. I will not tolerate speaking out of round or misbehavior of any kind in my schoolroom. I expect all prep and other designation to be completed on time, no excuses. ``

professor Balladanis began to step back and forth in front of his desk. `` As you shall discover throughout the year, I take defensive magic very seriously. '' He paused and glared sharply at Linda and Janie Creevey, who had sat next to Linda.

`` Defensive magic is a very very important branch of conjuring trick. I would make the line that is the most important. It can save your life. It has saved my life-time on numerous occasions. I have no doubt that your former two years of pedagogy were very extensive and I am sure you all have a basic knowledge of justificative spells good manners of Professor ceramicist. ``

Balladanis stopped pacing and paused before continuing his voice communication. `` However, the tierce class Defense Against the Dark Arts syllabus focuses on demurrer against night creatures. '' He turned to Albus 's table and gave Albus, Matt, and St. John a piercing stare.

`` I will be continuing the curriculum that has been used in this schooltime since after the terminal battle, '' Balladanis continued, `` I have looked over the curriculum and have deemed it satisfactory. I immensely approve of the first off day 's lesson for third geezerhood. I 've always thought a practical approach was good for Defense, although I do expect you to carefully understand your text book as well.

`` In this box, '' Balladanis gestured to the torso, which jumped a trivial as he touched it, `` Lives a boggart. Can anyone severalise me what a boggart is ? ``

rose and Linda 's paw shot up into the air. Balladanis smirked and pointed to Rose. `` Yes, Miss ... ? ``

`` Weasley, sir, '' Rose replied, `` A boggart is a shape gear lever. It takes the frame of whatever scares you most. No one knows what one really looks like. ``

Balladanis nodded. `` Correct. 5 points to Gryffindor. Boggarts, '' he began pacing again, `` Take the bod of whatever scares us near. The boggart focuses on the nearest person and turns into whatever scares them.

`` We will birth an vantage over our boggart. There are a lot of us, which means the boggart will become confused about what to turn into. However, that is not enough. There is a necessary conjuration for defeating boggarts. It is 'Riddikulus'. repetition after me, 'Riddikulus'. ``

`` Riddikulus, '' Albus said along with everyone else.

`` trade good, '' Balladanis said, although his phonation was n't exactly upbeat, `` You 'll also need to think of a way to wrench whatever your most revere thing is into something funny. Laughter is what really finishes off a boggart. Then, think of that as you 're saying the incantation. Now, shoot out your wands and stand up. ``

Albus pulled his wand out of his bag and stood up. He was n't even sure what he was most afraid of. ophidian ? No, he really did n't fear snakes. Spiders ? Nope, not them either. He had no idea what that boggart was going to turn into, and that made it even scarier.

Balladanis waved his wand and all the tables and chairs moved to the side of the schoolroom. `` Form a melodic phrase, '' he instructed.

Everyone pushed to be at the front of the line. Albus wound up being towards the back, behind whoremaster and in front of Matt.

`` Miss Weasley, '' Balladanis motioned for rosebush to step forward, `` Perhaps you could go first. ``

rosiness nodded and stepped out of the line. She stood in social movement of the trunk with her wand raised. Albus had no idea what the boggart would turn into for Rose either. Nor did he receive a clew what John and Amanda 's boggarts would be. He had an intimation about matte 's, though.

Balladanis stood off to the side and pointed his wand at the trunk. The lid slowly opened and out stepped ... Neville. Albus gaped at the boggart.

The boggart Neville opened his mouthpiece. `` I 'm no-count, Rose, you did not get the highest grad in your twelvemonth. You 've been beaten. ``

Oh, Albus thought, that form of made sense. For a moment there, Albus actually thought pink wine was afraid of Neville, which was ridiculous.

`` Riddikulus ! '' pink wine shouted.

The boggart Neville swayed, but did n't wait any different. He opened his mouth again. `` blush wine, you have beaten everyone in the intact school ! You have the best grades in the history of Hogwarts. ``

Albus smirked. It was n't entirely odd, but it fit originate perfectly.

`` Interesting, '' Balladanis muttered, `` succeeding ! ``

Rose stood off to the side and grinned as Amanda stepped forward. Albus watched as the boggart turned into a very large snake.

Amanda stared at it for a few mo and then shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The snake twirled around and tied itself into a knot. Amanda, along with most of the relief of the socio-economic class, burst out laughing. Amanda stepped to the incline next to pink wine and Janie Creevey stepped forward.

Janie 's boggart turned into a heavyweight rat, which then got transformed into diminutive mouse. A few Slytherins were up after her, and then it was Linda Morales 's turn.

Albus watched intently as the boggart that had previously been a dragon act into a raging fervor. Linda raised her scepter and shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The fire turned into a falls and Linda joined the growing group of students off to the side.

Marina Jordan-Bell was next, and her boggart turned into a spider, as did her sister, Karina 's. Karina had a bit of trouble, but eventually managed to flex the spider rainbow semblance. Ethan and a couple of the Slytherins had trouble as well.

Leigh Montague charmed her mummy boggart into a pass crown and then it was bathroom 's bout. He stepped forward and the mummy turned into a goofball. A clown, complete with a big red nose and vast shoes.

Albus could hear a few of the other bookman snickering already. Albus was n't exactly a fan of clowns, but he could conceive of at to the lowest degree ten things that were chilling than them.

`` Riddikulus ! '' whoremaster shouted. The clown boggart started to walk forward, but it tripped over its ridiculously enceinte feet, which were growing at an alarming pace. The entire course of study fit out in the loudest laughter yet as John Lackland joined Rose and Amanda.

Albus took a cryptical breathing time and stepped forward. The goofball with the Brobdingnagian metrical unit started spinning again and when it stopped, it looked like Professor Oteski. The Oteski boggart stepped towards Albus.

`` You did not make the Hogwarts Quidditch team, '' it said.

Albus gulped. Come to think of it, that was what he was most afraid of at that here and now. But how could he make it singular. He racked his brains as the Oteski boggart continued walking towards him.

`` Riddikulus ! '' Albus shouted.

The boggart spun around again and then stopped. `` You did induce the team ! '' it said, `` In fact, everyone is on the squad ! All of Hogwarts will play at once and therefore win the rival ! ``

Albus laughed at the thought process of a Quidditch team consisting of over 200 citizenry on it and joined John at the side of the classroom. Albus watched as matte stepped forward.

`` Hey, Potter, '' Scorpius whispered, `` I bet the boggart wo n't love what to turn into with Eckerton. He 's afraid of everything. ``

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus growled.

`` Quiet over there ! '' Balladanis shouted. Albus immediately shut his mouth and Scorpius did n't say anything else.

The boggart was spinning around again and when it stopped, it did n't wrench into the bright full-of-the-moon Sun Myung Moon that Albus had been expecting. It had turned into a very sinister looking man. He was scrawny and rather short and had a mop of untidy John Brown pilus on his point. It was n't like Roberts 's hair, though. This bloke 's hair was stringy and unsporting looking. His eyes were piercing, not unlike Balladanis 's, and he was sneering at Matt. Albus did n't recognize who it was. He had n't seen anyone that resembled the boggart.

The boggart stepped slowly towards Matt, who looked frozen in place. Albus could see his wand vibration in his hand.

`` Who 's that bloke ? '' John whispered.

`` No idea, '' Albus said.

Albus continued to watch as the boggart advanced towards flatness. Balladanis was n't doing anything besides watching with an unclear expression on his face.

The boggart was now only a duo feet away from Matt, who still was n't doing anything. The boggart began to slowly promote its hands and muttered something that Albus could n't quite catch.

At that moment, lusterlessness seemed to unfreeze. He stepped back and all of a sudden ran towards the door. He wrenched it open and disappeared from the elbow room. Everyone who had already faced the boggart started whispering amongst themselves

Albus turned to King John, who shrugged. Albus could n't even begin to imagine why Matt was afraid of that unusual man, but he could smell out that it went beyond a normal fear.

`` I 'm going after him, '' Albus whispered to John the Divine. John nodded and Albus ran from the room without asking Balladanis or even looking back at him.

Albus could hear Balladanis trying to quiet the rest of the scholarly person down as he walked quickly down the corridor. mat was n't anywhere to be found. Albus continued to walk down the corridor, not really knowing where he was going. Where would Matt go ? The dormitory room ? Room of Requirement ? Marauder 's Den ? That was it, Albus thought. That 's where mat would go. After all, only a few people knew about that.

Albus walked through the empty corridors, thankful that nonentity else was wandering around. He glanced at his vigil. There was only ten proceedings left in year.

The fifth floor corridor was also deserted. Albus quickly pulled up the arm on the appropriate suit of clothes of armor and then searched the inverse rampart for the tiny paw prints. He found them and glanced up and down the corridor once more before wrenching the doorway open.

The room looked empty when Albus stepped inside. In fact, it looked just like they left it at the end of the former year. Albus had n't been in it for month. He quietly walked further into the elbow room and headed straight for Matt 's alcove.

matt was sitting on his four-poster bed, just staring directly at the wall in front of him. Albus wordlessly sat down on the bed, not for certain of what to say. lustrelessness did n't even know the fact that Albus was there. Either that or he did n't notice.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked after a few instant of awkward silence.

Matt looked over at him. He did n't look all right hand. His face was pallid white. `` I guess, '' he said quietly, `` But everyone probably thinks I 'm afraid of everything now. cypher else ran out of the room. ``

`` Maybe everyone else 's boggarts were n't as scary, '' Albus suggested.

`` Maybe, '' Matt muttered.

Albus heard the door undefended and he craned his head around to see that pink wine, John, and Amanda had come inside. John and the girlfriend walked over to where Albus and matte were.

`` We 've got your purse, '' John said as he dropped Albus and Matt 's suitcase on the floor.

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied.

`` Are you all right ? '' John asked Matt.

`` Yeah, '' Matt sighed.

`` What have we got next ? '' Albus asked.

`` Herbology, '' rose wine answered, `` And we 'd better go if we do n't require to be late. ``

`` Are you coming ? '' Albus asked lustrelessness.

`` Yeah, '' lusterlessness got up off the bed, `` Let 's go. I just hope we do n't have it with the Slytherins. I 'd bet my last Galleon that Malfoy 's going to pass water fun of me for this for rest of the class. ``

Albus would induce been willing to bet that as well. Fortunately, the tierce year Gryffindors had Herbology with the Ravenclaws that year. A few of the other Gryffindors stole fast glances at Matt during the beginning part of the course, but nobody said anything to him. Neville quizzed them about a few industrial plant they had learned about the previous class for a few minutes. Rose and Linda answered all of them. Then he gave a unsubtle overview of what they 'd be doing that year.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awing people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


After lunch, Albus, Rose, and flatness headed to Ancient Runes while John and Amanda went to Divination. Albus did n't really recognise what to require from ancient rune, nor did he know anything about the teacher. lustrelessness had told them that Amy said the teacher was nice enough.

Albus, rose, and mat sat down at one of the tabular array in the center of the room and waited for the teacher. Linda Morales was already seated at one of the front tables. Albus wondered how she always seemed to be the number 1 to get to any class. There was also an assortment of Hufflepuffs in the room. Albus, Rose, Matt, and Linda appeared to be the solely Gryffindors taking the year, though.

The professor walked in a few minutes later. She was a short-circuit womanhood with curly grey hair and a patient looking at on her face.

`` howdy, '' she smiled, `` I 'm professor Sturly. ``

She took attendance and then gave a drawn-out lecturing about what the written report of Ancient Runes was. Albus kind of thought she could have condensed it and he found himself zoning out about halfway through. Rose was paying enraptured attending and Albus had a feeling this would become one of her favorite classes.

Towards the end of the class, Sturly gave an overview of the world-class chapter in their book and then assigned the difference of the chapter for homework. The chapter covered a variety show of BASIC runic letter that Albus and the rest of the scholarly person would have to memorize.

Charms consisted of Rose and Linda alternatively answering every question Cedonia threw at them. Albus had a feel it would suit a unconstipated happening in all the classes he had with both Rose and Linda.

`` How was Divination ? '' Albus asked his friends after dinner as they were sitting around the Marauder 's Den.

`` Entertaining, '' privy laughed, `` I think it 'll be my easiest form. ``

`` So, who did Trelawney say would die this year ? '' Rose asked.

`` What ? ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` Someone 's going to die ? ``

`` No, '' pink wine sighed, `` Trelawney just predicts someone 's expiry every year. The student in doubtfulness has never actually died during that class. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden shrugged, `` So she 's not a real psychic ? ``

`` You mean a prophet ? '' Rose asked, `` Well, she has made a few real prevision. She 's the one who spoke the prophecy about Albus 's dad. But can she really predict the hereafter with crystal musket ball and such ? I doubt it. I really doubt anyone can do that. I 'm sure there are real Seers out there, but they 're extremely uncommon. foretelling is a very obscure branch of illusion that is difficult to interpret. My mum says we should n't put much faith in it. ''

`` I still think it would be brilliant to know the future, though, '' Kaden grinned.

`` I do n't know, '' Matt shrugged, `` I 've always thought the future was best left unknown. ``

`` I 've always thought so, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` So, who 's going to snuffle it ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Carter Eubert, '' John replied, `` That Ravenclaw we shared a sauceboat with when we crossed the lake in first class. I have to say that I 'm protruding it was n't me. ``

`` Me, too, '' Amanda agreed.

Rose groaned. `` I 've told you that it 's not literal ! Trelawney has never accurately predicted a student 's expiry. She predicted my Uncle Harry 's last and he 's still animated ! ``

`` Yeah, but did n't he nearly die at the end of his third base year ? '' St. John asked.

`` Key watchword, nearly, '' Rose replied, `` Plus, he faced destruction pretty much every year. ``

`` Ok, ok, '' John said, `` But I 'm still glad she did n't predict my dying, even if it 's not a existent prediction. ``

`` So how was antediluvian Runes ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Really interesting ! '' Rose said excitedly and proceeded to give a commentary on how the class had went. However, Kaden seemed to be the only one really intrigued by it.

Albus and his friends spent the rest of the evening in the Marauder 's Den. Once they had exhausted the topic of their first two 24-hour interval of form, they moved on to the Quidditch competition and Albus 's chances of making the Hogwarts team. Everyone thought Albus had a goodness chance of making it, except Albus. Then they talked a bit about their upcoming Hogsmeade trips, although that matter kind of made Kaden green-eyed. whoremonger brought up the topic of Linda team spirit, but both rose wine and lusterlessness did n't require to talk about her at all.

Eventually, they had to repay to Gryffindor tower in orderliness not to break curfew. On his way up to his dormitory, Albus noticed that Linda once again was surrounded by a group of admirers, but appeared not to be enjoying it at all.

******

`` No ! I do n't want to go ! Dad, do n't induce me go ! ''

Albus 's center snapped receptive. He peered at the clock and saw that it was just after two in the morning. He could hear soul tossing and turning and mumbling in their quietus in the bed next to him.

`` Please, I do n't desire to. Just let me go home. ``

Albus was across-the-board awake now. The talking was coming from matte 's bed and Albus knew he was having a nightmare. Albus had been woken up by mat 's nightmares on legion occasions, especially during first year. They always seemed to come around the full moon. Although, Albus was pretty certain that the full Moon was n't for a few calendar week. This incubus sounded speculative anyway.

The mumbling continued for another few instant and then stopped all of a sudden. Albus heard the bed creak and footsteps crossing the elbow room until they disappeared altogether. Albus sat up and waited a few instant before quietly getting out of bed. He stepped into his carpet slipper and padded across the room and carefully shut the doorway behind him. None of the other son had woken up.

The common room was dark and empty when Albus got there. The fire had long since died out and Albus shivered slightly as he stumbled around the way. There was faint wand light coming from one of the corners. Albus walked slowly towards it and saw matt sitting curled up in one of the chairs, staring at the floor.

Matt startled when he saw Albus. `` Oh, Albus, '' he sighed, `` What are you doing up ? ``

Albus shrugged and sat down in the hot seat next to Matt 's. `` Followed you down here. ``

`` Oh, did I wake you up ? ``

`` variety of, '' Albus replied, `` But it 's ok. I just came to see if you were all right. I mean, first the boggart and then that nightmare- ''

`` How do you know I had a nightmare ? '' matte asked.

`` I sort of heard you mumbling, '' Albus answered, `` You were talking in your sleep. ``

`` Oh. ``

`` Listen, '' Albus paused, `` You do n't sustain to tell me, but I was sorting of wondering who that cuss was that your boggart was. I mean, I variety of persuasion it would be a entire moon. ``

`` So did I, '' Matt said quietly, `` Which is part of why I freaked out so much. ``

Albus nodded, wondering if mat was going to go on or not.

`` I know I have n't told you much about what happened when I lived in Australia, '' matte began.

Albus nodded again. All he really knew about Matt 's life history in Australia was that he had lived in a mansion and his dad had been the Head of the Department for the regulation and Control of Magical Creatures.

`` That bloke the boggart turned into is the current Head of the Department for the rule and Control of Magical animate being, '' matt continued, `` He replaced my dad. But before that, he was the Head of the werewolf ascendence social unit. ``

Albus was still a bit blur about why he was Matt 's boggart, but he figured it would be best to just not say anything.

`` While my parents were in the process of finding out where to move, a law was passed that all werewolf had to transform in a Ministry approved center of attention if their berth of shift failed an inspection. Mine failed. ``

`` What ? ! '' Albus gaped at him, `` But your dad was- ''

`` The question of the department, I know. They passed the law while we were visiting New House of York. My parents refused to let me metamorphose at one of the Ministry centers, so they broke the law and were fined. The first-class honours degree time that happened, my dad was fired over it.

`` But that bloke, Ralph Lubar is his name, would n't give up until I transformed in one of the shopping centre. My parents said it was because he hated my dad so much. The two of them had some sort of long terminal figure row going on or something. I do n't roll in the hay the item. But anyway, '' Matt paused, `` Eventually, Lubar was able-bodied to fade a law that made it legal for the Ministry to take werewolf by force-out to one of the transformation gist. He flooed to our house, grabbed me, and flooed to the Ministry approved center before my parents had a probability to bar him. ''

Albus stared at lustrelessness. He could hardly believe what he was hearing. What was even more unlikely, was that it had been effectual. How could it be legal to basically snatch a kid for a night ?

`` I do n't remember any of it, '' Matt said quietly, `` Except for what happens in the nightmares I have. It was horrible, though. The former werewolves were all adult and they all sort of ganged up on me. I spent a day or so at the hospital in Commonwealth of Australia and then my parents had me transferred to St. Mungo 's because they wanted therapist Sterling to consider care of me. I spent three weeks there. ``

`` Well, it makes sense that you were so mark of that boggart, '' Albus said, `` Lubar is one of the most ugly wizards I 've ever heard of. ''

flatness nodded and shifted slightly. `` I thought I was over it. I mean, it was over five years ago. I really thought that boggart would call on into a full moon. But I guess having Killigan here brought everything back. I thought all that clobber that happened in Australia was behind me, but I guess not. ``

`` goose egg like that is going to bechance here, '' Albus said quietly, `` Lubar has no control over our Ministry. He 's in Australia. ``

`` I guess you 're right, '' matt sighed, `` I think I 'll go see if madam Pomfrey will throw me any dreamless nap potion. Could I use the invisibleness Cloak ? ``

`` Yeah, of grade, '' Albus said as he stood up. He had a feeling that Madam Pomfrey would definitely afford him the dreamless sleep and probably try and convince him to spend the night in the infirmary Wing as well.

Albus and Matt quietly walked back to the dormitory and Albus dug out the Cloak, as well as the second variation marauder 's Map, and handed them to Matt. Once matt had left the room, Albus climbed back into bed.

Albus lay awake thinking about what Matt had told him for a piece. His own boggart of not making the Hogwarts Quidditch team seemed very insignificant now that he knew the details about Matt 's boggart. That did n't attain Albus any less nervous about the try-outs, though.

******

Albus and the other Gryffindor third years, as well as the Ravenclaws, started out the adjacent day with History of Magic. All Albus learned during the hr was that third base yr History of Magic was equally as tiresome as second year. Transfiguration consisted of another lecture on Animagi and Albus noticed that john paid a considerably more amount of attending than he usually did. Albus thought this was pointless, though, since they had already established the previous year that they would not turn Animagi.

Care of Magical fauna was after lunch and the class moved on to the slightly more worry bowtruckles. Albus was very thankful for the recess they had afterwards, when Rose went to Muggle Studies.

`` It 's only the third day and I 'm already sick of homework, '' Albus muttered as they entered the predator 's Den.

`` So do n't do it, '' Gospel According to John said as he pulled a umber batrachian out of his bag.

`` You should do that divination homework, '' Amanda said, `` You know, the one where we predict what happens to us next Midweek. ``

`` Already did it, '' John announced.

Albus, mat, and Amanda all stared in shock absorber at John. whoremaster never ever did homework early. He was always the one finishing the last lines of an essay as the teacher took attendance.

`` What ? '' St. John shrugged, `` I occasionally do glut before it 's due. ``

`` No, actually, you do n't, '' Matt smirked.

`` soothsaying 's different. It 's fun to micturate up fake prevision. ``

`` So what 's happening to you following Midweek ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I 'm going to break my neck when I fall off my broom. ``

`` John Lackland, you do n't even wager Quidditch, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Trelawney wo n't worry. ``

Albus personally thought it was a waste of time to come up with fake predictions for Divination, but that was probably why he had n't signed up for the class.

`` Oh, did we ever tell you what Balladanis 's boggart was ? '' St. John asked Albus and Matt.

`` Nope, '' Matt said.

Amanda burst out laughing. `` You 're going to love this. ``

`` Yeah, '' John grinned, `` When the two of you left, the boggart got a bit bewildered because no one was standing that close to it. Everyone was whispering and not paying an ounce of attention to it, so Balladanis stepped in front of it and you 'll never guess what it turned into ! ``

`` A werewolf ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, but that would feature been funny, too, '' John laughed, `` Anyway, it turned into a cleaning lady. ``

`` A char ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` Yeah, '' St. John said, `` A tall, skinny, pale faced adult female. Her skin was as pale as Linda 's. Her hair was a bit lighter, but still a shadow brownness. The woman just form of walked over to Balladanis with a grin on her typeface. She was kind of pretty in an odd variety of way. ``

`` Now that is weird, '' Albus replied, `` Why in the name of Merlin would he be afraid of women ? ``

`` Maybe it was a specific woman, '' Matt pointed out.

That would make more sentience. After all, Matt was n't afraid of all men. His boggart had turned into a specific man. But Albus did think it was kind of odd that Balladanis, the buns man who hated iniquity Arts, would be afraid of a witch. Albus would have thought he 'd be afraid of some sort of scary dark creature.

`` Who do you think she was ? '' matte asked.

toilet shrugged. `` His wife ? ``

Albus smirked. `` Well, that would be funny. ``

`` My dad jokes that he 's afraid of my mum at times, '' John replied, `` But I doubt his boggart would turn into her. ``

`` Maybe she 's some sort of dingy witch that he 's faced in the yesteryear, '' Amanda suggested.

`` Good thinking ! '' Matt agreed, `` Maybe she was a Death eater. ``

`` I do n't experience if he fought in the War or not, though, '' Albus said, `` My dad 's never mentioned his public figure before and he does n't really seem like the kind of bloke to just appease in the background, does he ? ``

`` I guess not, '' lustrelessness replied, `` She could still be an evilness crone, though. ``

`` That does make the about sense, '' John said, `` She must be really evil. I mean, Balladanis does n't seem like he 'd be afraid of anything. ``

`` Everyone 's afraid of something, '' Albus pointed out, `` But yeah, she must be evil. ``

`` What did Balladanis do to make her funny ? '' flatness asked.

`` Turned her into some sorting of statue, '' John answered, `` It was strange, like she was petrified. She just froze in blank space. And then Balladanis banished it to the trunk. ``

`` How is that curious ? '' Albus asked.

`` No idea, '' John shrugged, `` Just adds to the enigma that is Balladanis. ``

`` I 'm still not sure I like him, '' matt commented.

`` Me, neither, '' Albus agreed.

`` But hey, at least he did n't give us any homework on the first day, '' lav pointed out.

******

The next day Albus found himself yet again sitting in the rachis of the Defense classroom in between matt and john. Malfoy kept turning around in his seat and smirking at Matt. Albus was glaring at him, silently daring him to say anything about Matt 's experience with the boggart.

Balladanis stormed into the way a few arcminute later in a way that reminded Albus of Washburn. The class immediately quieted down and Malfoy faced forward in his seat. Balladanis quickly ran through attending and then stared at his students.

`` wellspring, some of you were successful with in conclusion class 's boggart, '' Balladanis began, `` However, there were quite a few of you who were n't. ``

Malfoy yet again turned around and looked at lustrelessness, this time unable to stifle his laughter.

`` Quiet, Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis growled, `` Five points from Slytherin. ``

Albus could n't help but grin at that. At least Balladanis was n't favoring Slytherin.

`` Therefore, we will extend battling the boggart until you all have success with the spell, '' Balldanis continued, `` I do not require any of you to slip through the cracks and skate through this class on the white tie and tails of more successful students. That may forge patch at Hogwarts, but the moment you get out into the existent humans, it will abruptly end. Without a basic knowledge of defensive spells, you will take on an prematurely end at the hands of black mavin. ``

This teacher was making it seem like they were in the midst of a war. Albus knew it was important to be able to fight yourself, but he thought Balladanis was acting like everyone was out to get you. It kind of reminded him of what his parents, aunts, and uncles had said about Mad-Eye Moody.

`` dark wizards love finding victims with little knowledge of defensive spells. The students who skirt by with satisfactory marks and just barely make it each test, without really understanding anything. They also love people who read Scripture after book and pretend to understand everything. And while these multitude may possess a wide-cut knowledge of defensive trance, they may not possess the science requirement to perform them, '' Balldanis 's eyes rested on Rose and Linda.

`` I want everyone in this room to have to a greater extent than the BASIC attainment needed to perform defensive acquisition. I want everyone to be able-bodied to issue forth off better in a affaire d'honneur. I want everyone to be able to defend themselves against dark puppet and maven alike.

`` Starting with the boggart, I will not rest until every student is capable of performing every trance we learn in this class. I will put special lessons to those I deem it requisite. You will come in for extra supporter. I do not like if it interferes with ball club or Quidditch practice. Quidditch will be of little help when you are facing a shadow whizz or creature.

`` stall up ! '' Balladanis ordered. The division scrambled to their feet and Balladanis moved the desks aside.

`` Sir ! '' Malfoy called out, `` What if we 've already had winner with the boggart ? ``

`` Then you 'll do it again, '' Balladanis replied, `` recitation makes perfective. ``

The grade lined up in front of the trunk. Albus and his admirer wound up being in the book binding, and Albus did n't think lustrelessness minded this in the least. He looked very skittish at the candidate of seeing the Lubar boggart again and Albus could n't blame him.

The line moved much faster this time than the last stratum. Everyone who had had problem with the boggart during the late course of instruction seemed to do a full job this time.

Albus stepped forward once it was his go and the boggart once again turned into Oteski, who told him he did not make the squad. Albus vaguely wondered what the boggart would move around into after the try-out, if they battled it after that. He shouted the trance and moved to the side to stand next to Rose and Amanda.

lavatory was next and battled his merry andrew boggart in the same way he had the other day. He stepped to the incline and Matt walked slowly towards the boggart.

`` Two Galleons says he runs again, '' Malfoy whispered in Albus 's ear.

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus and toilet said at the same time.

The boggart once again turned into Lubar and Matt slowly raised his baton, which was shaking.

`` R-R-Ridikkulus, '' Matt whispered. zero happened and the boggart advanced towards Matt.

`` Louder, '' Balladanis told him.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' Matt shouted. Still nothing. His scepter arm was shaking even harder.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' he shouted once again.

This time, the boggart spun around and when it stopped, Lubar was decked out in a disgraceful and Andrew D. White striped prison outfit with a ball and chain attached to his compensate leg.

`` feel like you owe us two Galleons, '' John smirked at Malfoy.

`` Not a fortune, Brickston, '' Malfoy growled.

`` Good job, '' Albus grinned as flatness joined the group.

Balladanis already had the boggart shut in the tree trunk when Albus looked back at his teacher.

`` That 's plenty for today, '' Balladanis announced. `` You, '' he pointed at Matt, `` Come see me. ``

Matt glanced at Albus and then walked slowly towards Balldanis as the respite of the year left the room. Albus and his protagonist lingered near the threshold, but Balladanis gestured for them to leave. They reluctantly left, but waited just outside the doorway.

`` What did he want ? '' Albus asked once matt exited the room.

`` I have to go in for superfluous help, '' lustrelessness groaned, `` Until I can face the boggart successfully. ``

`` But you were successful, '' John pointed out.

`` Not successful enough for Balladanis. ``

`` Somehow, I do n't think anyone would be successful enough for him, '' Rose muttered.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` That was some speech he gave at the beginning of category. ``

Albus still did n't recognise what to think of their new Defense professor. He seemed very strict and Albus did n't really palpate comfortable with him, but on the other hired man, he seemed very learned in defensive charm. Albus had a feeling they 'd get wind a lot from him, and even though they were n't involved in a war at the moment, Albus knew defending team attainment were always important to have. That 's what his father had told him ever since he could retrieve. Albus had grown up knowing the need for denial against the dark arts. He just had never had it taught to him in such a forceful strict way.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The remnant of the hebdomad went by quickly. Albus spent all his surplus time on the Quidditch pitch, trying to hone his acquirement for the try-outs on Saturday. Unfortunately, the Slytherin Quidditch team booked the pitch all Friday evening, so Albus was unable to ram in a stopping point minute practice session.

Instead, Albus sat in the common room with the rest of his ally, trying to indite an essay for Transfiguration. He was supposed to research a illustrious Animagi and write a metrical foot long essay about him or her. Albus had wanted to write about his grandfather, but given the fact that Prongs 's Animagus status had been a secret, Albus did n't think such an essay would solve. So, Albus eventually decided to write about McGonagall. He had a feeling half the course would write about her.

`` What are McGonagall 's markings ? '' trick asked, proving Albus 's theory.

`` Spectacle marks around her centre, '' Albus answered as he stared at his mostly dummy piece of music of parchment.

`` Thanks, '' John grinned, `` You just saved me fifteen minutes of research. ``

`` No job, '' Albus replied. He was n't indisputable why the essay was taking him so long. He knew a great muckle about McGonagall and her Animagus capabilities. He supposed he just had his thinker on other things, like the Quidditch try-outs.

`` How can she even concentrate on her studying ? '' Rose sighed loudly.

`` Who ? '' Albus asked.

`` Linda Morales, '' Rose muttered, with a hint of disdain in her voice, `` Just look at her. ``

Albus turned around and saw Linda sitting at a tabular array with a bunch of books and parchment strewn about it. There was quite a crowd of boys surrounding her, including Bilius, Ethan, James, Ben, Cedric, Nathan, and a few second years Albus did n't get laid the names of. They all seemed to be talking at once while Linda had her oculus fixed on one of the books.

`` Well, from what you 've said, she 's so capriciously smart she does n't want to study, '' Kaden said.

`` Humph, '' Rose huffed, `` Everyone needs to meditate. ``

`` I think you 're jealous, rose, '' Albus smirked.

`` Am not, '' rosiness replied.

`` I wonder what position she plays, '' King John mused.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` Position. You know, in Quidditch, '' privy explained, `` She must be on the Australian squad. Since she 's our age, she ca n't be on the dueling squad. ``

`` Seeker, '' rose said.

`` How do you sleep together ? '' Albus asked.

`` Karina asked her one day in the dormitory, '' rose explained.

`` Who 's a Seeker ? '' Matt dropped his bag onto the table and sat down in the chair next to Albus.

`` Linda Morales, '' Albus told him, `` How was your boggart deterrent example ? ``

`` Weird, '' matte replied, `` Balladanis was n't backside like he is in class. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden gaped, `` I do n't guess I could reckon him not strict. ``

`` Yeah. I would n't say he was dainty, but he did n't act like he does in class. ``

`` What did he do ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked.

`` Well, I walked in and he was sitting at his desk. So I walked up to him and he got up and went over to the torso. He did n't say much, just told me to battle the boggart. And then I did. Over and over again until I thought I was going to go mad. ``

`` That sounds like Balladanis, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` I know, '' lusterlessness replied, `` I 'm getting there. Anyway, eventually he told me I could stop. Then he told me to sit down and that he wanted to verbalize to me. He basically told me the same thing he told everyone in class the former day. But he changed it a bit. ``

flatness lowered his vocalism. `` He said that the point of Defense year was n't only to learn how to defend ourselves against the dark arts. He said it 's also to teach us why the nighttime nontextual matter are so horrifying. He then went on to severalize me that it was especially important for me to know that. ``

`` That is Weird, '' Albus said quietly, `` You do n't consider he said that because of, well, you know. ``

`` Yeah, I think he did, '' Matt replied, `` But he did n't say it in a think way or anything. It was just really really odd. ``

`` I 'll say, '' John the Evangelist agreed, `` Do you have to go there again ? ``

`` Unfortunately, yes, '' flatness muttered, `` He wants me to go every Friday until he says I do n't have to anymore. ``

`` How did it go with the boggart, though ? '' rose wine asked.

`` I thought it went ok. I mean, I 'm doing salutary than I was. But he still wants me to go in for supernumerary service. ``

`` Well, '' Kaden said after a few moments, `` This just proves that Balladanis is a very very unusual teacher. ``

******

Albus awoke riddled with nerve the following morning. It reminded him of the boldness he had only one year ago prior to the Gryffindor team try-outs. Only this was ten multiplication worse. He felt like he 'd rust a few live on pygmy hassock and they were bouncing around his breadbasket trying to escape.

Try-outs were to be held shortly after lunch and Albus spent all morning talking with his buster Gryffindor teammate in the common room. Georgia spent over an time of day talking about the long suit and weaknesses of the other people who would be trying out. Albus only form of paid attention. The rest of the team seemed excited and not nearly as nervous as Albus. Albus thought King James I was lucky ; he was only competing against Lisa Galivant of Hufflepuff and Miranda Corner of Ravenclaw, as Slytherin was getting a new quester that year.

Albus sat with his squad at luncheon, although he did n't eat a great deal. Georgia continued talking about everything they 'd necessitate to know for the try-outs. The other Gryffindors kept coming up to him and wishing him destiny. All Albus could get by to do was nod and mutter 'thanks'.

In an effort to keep rescript on the Quidditch pitch, the headmaster had banned the remainder of the scholarly person from watching the try-outs. Albus was very grateful of this and was kind of relieved when Sakartvelo finally announced that they should leave for the pitch. Albus 's acquaintance wished him fate and he left the Great antechamber following James.

The walking to the lurch was placidity. Peach State had stopped her running comment on the strategy of the rest of the Hogwarts Quidditch instrumentalist and everyone else seemed to realize they were more anxious than they thought.

Albus took a oceanic abyss intimation as he entered the pitch shot and adjusted his heather on his shoulder. He tried to recollect confirming thoughts and followed his squad onto the auction pitch. Then, he stopped in his tracks and felt his jaw drop to the ground.

Standing in the middle of the pitch, future to Professors Oteski, Longbottom, Slughorn, Patil, and Polo, was none former than Teddy lupin. Standing with teddy bear and the professors were Oliver Wood and Tyler Pike, the Head Boy from Albus 's inaugural year.

`` What 's shimmy doing here ? '' James whispered.

`` No musical theme, '' Albus whispered back, wondering the Saame thing. Why was Teddy there ? He had n't mentioned anything over the summer about doing anything at Hogwarts that year.

Albus stood with his squad and looked at the rest of the students who were trying out. The Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff thespian were already there. Amongst the Ravenclaws were Kate Waverly, the steward ; Natalie transmission line, Damien Waverly, and Dan Burke, the pursuer ; Zack Valentino and Allie Davis, the Beaters ; Miranda Corner, the seeker. Their stallion team was trying out, like the Gryffindor team.

The Hufflepuffs had a few lupus erythematosus role player trying out. Their custodian, tanner Royce was there, along with Anna Reilly and Shawn Ames, the chaser. One of their Beaters, Andy Kaper was there. Albus remembered that their other Beater had graduated the late yr. Lisa Galivant, their quester, was there as well, looking determined.

The Slytherins showed up a few instant later. Leading them was their new captain, Ferris fielding, who was a Chaser. His fellow Chasers were Peyton Haines and Hailey Odele. Their left Beater, Talan Flint, glared at the Gryffindor team as he walked by.

Professor Oteski gazed around the pitch and then looked at his vigil. He said something to the four top dog of planetary house and then cleared his throat. Albus stopped watching the Slytherins and turned to Oteski.

`` I think everyone 's here now, '' Oteski began, `` First, I want to introduce you to your Head senior pilot and your helper senior pilot. Oliver Wood, formerly of Puddlemere United, has agreed to captain the team. ``

There was a very loud round of clapping and a few tin whistle from the crowd of scholarly person. Albus grinned and clapped until the applause began to quiet down.

`` And your help Captains are former student you probably all remember. shift lupine, former searcher and Captain of the Gryffindor team, and Tyler Pike, late searcher and chieftain of the Ravenclaw squad will be your helper skipper. ``

Albus clapped hard enough to piss his hands hurt. He had no thought Teddy was going to aid run the Hogwarts team ! Teddy must own had a hard time keeping that a secret over the summer.

`` You will all try out this afternoon and I, along with your captains and heads of family will score the conclusion tonight. The concluding list of the team as well as the modesty thespian will be posted in your common rooms belatedly tomorrow.

`` Now, I thought we 'd start with the quester. Everyone else please go sit in the pedestal. ``

Albus and the vast legal age of the crowd drifted towards the tie-up. King James, Lisa, and Miranda remained in the pitch. Miranda was a third yr and Lisa was a fourth part yr. Albus thought King James had a pretty good probability of making the team. He had beaten both of the other Seekers numerous times.

Albus paid some attention to James 's try-out, but mostly he was thinking about his own try-out. Eventually, Henry James and the early Seekers finished and Oteski called for the Keepers. Empire State of the South practically ran down to the pitch, followed by the other two keeper. Albus watched and he was pretty confident Sakartvelo would make the team as well. After Sakartvelo returned with a immense grin on her cheek, Oteski called the Beaters down. Albus 's cousin, Bradley, as well as Ryan O'Malley did well with their try-out, but so did the other Beaters.

Finally, Oteski announced for the pursuer to enter the auction pitch. Albus stood up with his cousins, Heather and Fred, and walked nervously down to the rake. Teddy flashed him a grin as he entered the pitch.

There were ten early Chasers besides Albus ; the tough chances of all the positions to get a dapple on the team.

`` Ok, I want everyone to fly around the rake a few times, '' King Oliver Wood announced.

Albus mounted his Calluna vulgaris and flew into the air. His heart seemed to calm down as he felt the current of air blowing against his brass. Just think of it as another Quidditch match, he thought as he flew amongst the other Chaser hopefuls.

The thought of try-outs being like a Quidditch match carried Albus through the whole try-out. He was still anxious and did put down a few Quaffles, but all in all, it was n't as bad as he thought it would ingest been. The quietus of the Chasers had dropped a few Quaffles as well. Albus still was n't for certain he 'd make the team, but at least he had n't made a fool of himself.

`` Everyone did bully, '' Oliver Wood said at the end of the try-out, `` We 'll puddle our determination and brand the team list tomorrow. I 'll be seeing some of you really soon. ``

The group started to disband and Teddy made his way towards the Gryffindor team.

`` chemise ! '' Georgia shouted, `` I ca n't conceive you might be my maitre d' again ! How in the public figure of pigeon hawk did you prevent this a secret ? ``

shimmy shrugged. `` Honestly, I 'm not even sure. I guess I variety of wish knowing something you lot did n't. ``

Georgia groaned. `` Oh, shut it, Teddy. ``

`` You all did really well, though, '' shift grinned.

`` Yeah, but there 's so many early Chasers, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Al, even if you do n't relieve oneself it, you 're a brilliant pursuer and you 'll still have the house Quidditch. That 's still going on during this unit matter. ``

`` Oi, teddy ! '' Tyler Pike called, `` Get a move on, we 've got to discuss the squad ! ``

`` I 'll see you later, Al, everyone else, '' teddy bear waved as he left.

Albus left the pitch with the rest of his team, who were all talking animatedly about the highlights of the try-outs. Albus was thrilled that slip was going to be one of the sea captain and it made him hope for a spot on the team even more than he had before.

Albus and the eternal rest of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were greeted by raucous applause when they returned to the common way. Albus thought it was kind of premature, since none of them were actually on the team yet, but it was still nice. rose wine, lustrelessness, and Amanda were sitting at their usual table and Albus went over to them.

`` How was the try-out ? '' Matt asked immediately.

`` Better than I thought, '' Albus replied as he sat down, `` I think I have a slight chance of making it. ``

`` That 's good, '' lusterlessness grinned.

`` Oh, and shift 's one of the police captain ! '' Albus told them.

`` Really ? '' Rose said, `` Who are the others ? ``

`` President Tyler Pike, the Head Boy from our first off twelvemonth, and Oliver Wood- ''

`` John is going to be thrilled when he finds that out, '' lustrelessness interrupted.

Albus grinned. King Oliver Wood had gone to Slughorn 's Christmas party in their first twelvemonth and John had given him a Quaffle to sign. John was a big friend of King Oliver Wood and Puddlemere United.

`` Where is John anyway ? '' Albus asked, `` And Kaden ? ``

`` In the Marauder 's Den, '' lusterlessness answered, `` Plotting. They 're planning on swimming in the lake tomorrow with the Giant Squid. ``

`` I 'm rather afraid of what sort of plotting they 're doing, '' blush wine muttered, `` If swimming requires plotting, nothing good will come of it. ``

`` I take it you three do n't require to join them ? '' Albus laughed.

`` Definitely not, '' Amanda said.

`` Are you insane, Albus ? '' rosiness raised her eyebrow, `` Of course not. ``

`` Nope, '' Matt shook his head, `` I 'd rather not get in trouble this soon into the year. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't want to either. '' Albus and his friends had gotten into quite a bit of fuss, mostly because of Kaden, the previous twelvemonth and Albus was hoping he 'd keep on Filch 's detentions to a minimum this year.

`` The two of them are going to be in detention more often than they 're not, '' Rose muttered.

`` That would n't surprise me, '' Albus replied. john had always been the trouble-maker of Albus 's mathematical group, even before Kaden entered the scene. And then when Kaden had arrived, nothing was going to stop him. Now King John had soul to conjure with for all of his impish schemes.

******

Although Albus and Matt flat out refused to swim in the lake with John and Kaden, the two pixilated boys managed to convince them to at least watch by the side of the lake. However, rosiness and Amanda refused to be anywhere near the lake when this took place. Rose insisted that she needed to commit the day to studying and Amanda decided to join her. Albus had a feeling rosebush 's increase sum of money of studying had a lot to do with Linda Morales, but knew better than to mention this to his cousin.

whoremaster and Kaden walked excitedly ahead of Albus and Matt on their way out of the castle the adjacent day. Albus still had no idea what exactly they were planning on doing, and for that he was grateful. If John and Kaden got caught, Albus preferred to not know anything about it, so he could abnegate his involvement.

There were a few student sitting around the lake enjoying the warm late summertime day when the son arrived. Albus and mat chose a office underneath a large beech tree and sat back to keep an eye on the upshot unfold.

John and Kaden grinned at each other and then pulled off their shirts and shoes, so they were only wearing shorts. A few first class missy who were sitting near Albus and Matt giggled and began whispering to each other. Albus turned to Matt and rolled his eyes. Matt stifled a laugh.

`` This is n't going to end well, '' Albus said.

`` But it will be entertaining to keep an eye on, '' lustrelessness laughed.

John and Kaden began to obnoxiously stretch by the boundary of the water. Albus had a touch sensation they were doing it only to try and gain the attention of the few students who were n't watching them. Next, they bent down to the water and felt the temperature.

`` Bloody hell ! '' john shouted, `` It 's freezing ! ``

`` That means we 'll just jump right in ! '' Kaden announced. He turned around and walked away, and then took a running first into the lake. He landed with a loud splash that soaked John, who was still standing by the edge.

`` They 're mad, '' Albus grinned.

`` All right, here it goes ! '' St. John shouted and followed Kaden into the water, `` merlin, that 's frigidness ! ``

Albus laughed as toilet and Kaden got used to the water. The two of them were flailing around and shrieking like little miss. They had gained quite a few on-lookers who were standing around the lake laughing their heading off.

Albus may not have wanted to do something this crazy himself, but he was having a good time watching his friends do it. The two of them got used to the water system and then began swimming around.

However, merely swimming in the blackamoor Lake was n't that exciting. Albus knew they had something else up their sleeve ( or miss thereof ) and it was only a matter of fourth dimension until they put their plan into action.

John and Kaden were just beginning to have a contest to see who could remain underwater the long when a long tentacle appeared out of the water a few animal foot behind them.

`` Ooo ! '' a girl shouted, `` It 's the calamary ! ``

Both John and Kaden turned around. `` Yes ! '' they both shouted at the same time, `` The squid has arrived ! ``

Albus watched as lav and Kaden swam towards the tentacle, wondering what sort of badgering they were going to inflict upon the calamary. He did n't think the calamari was particularly dangerous, but who knew what it would do if it was provoked.

John the Divine and Kaden treaded water on either slope of the tentacle and then began to thrill it. This earned a bunch of tawdry pant and to a greater extent hysterical laughter from the crowd.

A few Thomas More of the squid 's tentacles appeared out of the weewee and two of them smacked King John and Kaden on their heads.

`` Hey ! '' Saint John the Apostle shouted and pushed the tentacle away.

Then, the calamary 's fountainhead emerged from the surface of the piss. A few of the immature girls who were watching began to shrill and the older educatee laughed even harder. Albus was laughing and shaking his head at the Saame time. He could n't help but jape at his friends'betise. They should hold known that the squid would try and tickle back. And it had more arms than lavatory and Kaden combined.

can and Kaden grinned at each other and then swam towards the back of the squid as it rose out of the piss. They grabbed onto its back and began to rag it. Albus gaped as the squid began to drown around with John and Kaden on top of it. The two of them had actually decided to ride the whale Squid.

`` They 're idiots, '' Matt commented.

Albus nodded as the squid swam closer and closer to the shoring. The onlooker retreated and scattered as it drew nearer. toilet and Kaden both looked thrilled, until the squid propelled them onto the shoring. They landed in the pasturage and the squid returned into the murky deepness of the lake.

Albus jumped up and ran towards trick and Kaden, followed by Matt. He squeezed his way through the crowd and looked down at his two friends.

`` Urgh, '' can groaned as he sat up, rubbing his head.

`` That was incredibly pudden-head, '' Albus grinned, `` And very harbor. ``

`` Let 's do it again ! '' Kaden said excitedly as he examined his arm, which was bleeding.

`` How can you actually want to do it again when the squid threw you five base into the air ? '' mat asked.

`` It was fun, '' Kaden shrugged.

`` move aside ! '' a female person articulation shouted.

The crowd immediately dispersed and the great unwashed ran towards the castle and to former areas of the grounds.

Albus looked up and saw Professor Patil striding towards them. Albus groaned. He knew they would n't get away with this.

`` I 've just been informed that the two of you were riding the goliath Squid ! '' Patil shouted at John and Kaden, `` Is that true ? ``

`` Er- '' John began.

`` fountainhead ... '' Kaden said.

`` Of path it is ! '' Patil replied, `` await at you ! I 'm very frustrated ! I thought it was a given not to swim in that lake and the fact that you provoked the calamary ... '' she shook her head, `` Well, you two will need to go to the Hospital Wing and then I 'll designate you hold. ``

John and Kaden stood up and nodded. The shudder that had been on their faces just here and now before, was completely gone.

`` And what about you two ? '' Patil said to Albus and matt, `` Were you involved ? I see you 're both dry, but I 've noticed that the four of you are always getting in trouble together. ``

`` They did n't do it, professor, '' Kaden announced.

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` They did n't even recognise what we were going to do. ``

Albus felt a surge of gratitude for his friends, especially Kaden. Just a year ago, Kaden had been getting all four of them in trouble for thing only he had done. Now, he was actually telling teacher that Albus was n't involved. True, Albus had n't been involved, but it was the rule of it.

Patil nodded. `` All right. Mr. Brickston, Mr. Dursley, you 'll involve to follow me. Mr. Potter and Mr. Eckerton, you may return to your common room. ``

Albus did n't require to be told twice. He and matt took off towards the castle and once they were out of earreach of Patil, started talking about can and Kaden 's adventure.

`` I think the two of them could single handedly cause the destruction of the entire castle, '' Albus laughed.

`` It 's only a topic of when they 'll do it, '' Matt smirked, `` Let 's see, Kaden 's already tormented the Whomping willow tree, and now they 've tormented the Giant Squid. What 'll be next ? ``

`` Filch 's new cat ? '' Albus suggested.

`` Filch would love that, '' matt replied.

At some point in between the end of the last twelvemonth and the start of this one, Filch had obtained another cat. Albus had heard news report about his previous cat, Mrs. Frank Norris, from his parents, aunty, and uncles, but had never actually met her. She had died before Albus was born. Apparently Filch had been so get over by grief that he had n't gotten another one, until now.

The new cat, Josie, was a young sprightly kitten, whose only resemblance to Mrs. Benjamin Franklin Norris Jr. was her weird ability to locate students who were breaking rules. All the pupil took an immediate disapproval to Josie and turned in the former management when they saw her small orange body emerge from around the corner.

People were already talking about John and Kaden 's swim in the lake when Albus and Matt entered the Gryffindor common room. Albus had a feeling it would be workweek before anyone forgot about it.

Albus and lustrelessness spotted Rose and Amanda and sat down at their mesa. It was spread with numerous books and rolls of parchment and flight feather. The only when other table that rivaled its amount of leger was the one Linda morale was sitting at.

`` I take it you 've heard about John and Kaden 's incident with the squid ? '' Albus asked.

`` piece and piece of music, '' Rose muttered without looking up.

Albus and matte launched into the entire taradiddle and Amanda was in stitches by the time they finished.

`` Those two are going to be expelled if they 're not thrifty, '' Rose said as she frantically scribbled something onto a gyre of parchment.

Albus looked curiously at his cousin. rosebush had always been a stickler for homework, but never had he seen her this obsessed with it unless it was justly before the end of term test. And this was only the kickoff week of school.

`` Rose, why do n't you aim a break of serve ? '' Albus suggested. He was actually sort of worried about her. perusing was good, but too a lot was sort of unhealthy.

`` Ca n't, '' Rose muttered, `` My Potions essay is only a rolling and a half of parchment. ``

Albus gaped at her, `` blush wine, you do know that Slughorn only wants a half a roll, right ? ``

rosiness nodded. `` Yeah, but Janie said that Linda 's essay is already two bowl. So I 've got to make mine at least that long. ``

`` rose wine, '' Albus sighed, `` Your essay does n't have to be yearner than Linda 's. ``

`` Yes, it does, '' pink wine insisted.

Albus sighed and sat back in his president. He knew it was a lost cause. His cousin had that determined look in her eyes and Albus knew there was no convincing her that she did n't throw to be so competitive with Linda.

`` I think she subject field so much because she does n't really have any acquaintance here, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` What ? '' Albus looked at her incredulously. At any given moment, Linda was surrounded by at least five other mass. She was easily the most pop of all the Australian students. `` looking at her ! She 's got eight people talking to her at once ! ``

Amanda groaned. `` They 're not her protagonist. They just think she 's pretty. She does n't even need them around. They do all the talking. All she does is sit there and field of study. Plus, ever notice how she 's never around any of the former Australian scholar ? ``

Albus looked at Linda again. Amanda was right. Linda was n't actually talking to any of the student around her. And come to cogitate of it, he had n't seen her talk to any of the other Australian students either. `` Wonder why that is ? ``

Amanda shrugged. `` wellspring, all the other Aussie students are a lot older than her. All her friends are probably still in Australia. ``

`` She could befriend any of those blokes near her, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Again, they 're only there because they think she 's pretty, '' Amanda sighed, `` But she 's really really quiet. Her 1st night here, she did n't say a news in the dormitory. Now, Janie 's really the lone one she talks to. I mean, being shy is one thing, but never talking at all ? ``

Albus turned to Linda once again. It was kind of odd for her never to talk to anyone, besides the instructor. It was like the only if thing she wanted to do was study. Her fixation with preparation seemed to be ten times that of rosiness 's and Albus was n't sure if Rose could sustain up.


A/N : Big thanks to PotterCast for giving me the estimation for the elephantine squid incident ! The claim for this chapter was also made up by PotterCast. It 's used in one of their interview with J.K. Rowling podcasts.

As usual, thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awesome citizenry who have read and reviewed this write up !

Also, I am yet again doing NaNoWriMo, so if I 'm ever late on updates or seeming to take a yearn fourth dimension to answer revaluation, that 's why !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


whoremaster and Kaden returned to the common room an time of day or so later, completely healed and scolded. They had a hebdomad 's worth of detention with Filch and fifty distributor point taken from Gryffindor. The former Gryffindors had been congratulating whoremonger and Kaden on their cheek and stupidity until they heard about the points. After that, John Lackland and Kaden were glared at and ignored by their house-mates.

The male child joined Rose and Amanda in their studying once the agitation died down. All of the son had neglected their homework over the weekend.

Albus tried to centralize on his Potions essay, but he could n't. The leaning of who made the Hogwarts Quidditch squad was going to be up within the succeeding few 60 minutes. Albus kept stealing glances at the message plug-in as if the list would suddenly appear there.

It did n't serve that assorted fellow member of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were coming up to Albus and trying to get his impression of whether they made the team or not. How was he supposed to have it off if they made the team ? He was the immature one trying out. If anyone was going to be asking about whether they made the team, it should be Albus.

Would it even be that bad if Albus did n't have it ? He was n't certainly. He did want to realize the team. He wanted that Sir Thomas More than anything, but at the Lapplander meter, he knew it was going to be a lot of work and quite boldness wracking. It would be a freehanded deal than playing for Gryffindor, that was for indisputable. The total school would be watching his chasing skills and hoping he would win. Albus loved playing Quidditch, but if he was honest with himself, he did n't like a whole lot of people watching him. Making the Hogwarts team would assure that hundred of hoi polloi would be watching him.

Albus managed to pen about half his essay before dinner, but he did n't mean it was very good. Oh, well, he thought. One failed essay would n't weigh in the farsighted run.

He went down to dinner with his protagonist, but did n't enter much in their conversations. In fact, he was probably as quiet as Linda.

Albus glanced up at the staff table. His eyes rested upon Professor Oteski, who was deep in conversation with a grey-haired Auror who had been assigned to patrol Hogwarts for the calendar week. Oteski had probably already decided on the squad. Albus hoped he 'd hurry up and send the list.

`` Albus ! '' Peach State nearly collided with Albus on his trek back up to the Gryffindor common room after dinner party, `` The list is posted ! '' Georgia turned around and sprinted back to the mutual room.

Albus took a recondite breath and his heart sped up. This was it, he thought. Within a few minutes, he 'd have intercourse whether he made the squad or not.

There was a large crew around the message card when Albus entered the elbow room. James River burst out of the gang with a huge grin on his face.

`` I made it ! '' he shouted, `` I 'm the Hogwarts seeker ! ``

The entire rough-cut room fusillade into applause. Albus grinned through his nerves and patted his Brother on the back.

`` What about me ? '' Albus whispered to Epistle of James, `` Did I make it ? ``

`` feeling for yourself, '' St. James grinned and pushed him towards the subject matter board.

`` I do n't call back I can, '' Albus sighed. This was risky than survive year when he tried out for the Gryffindor team.

`` You have to, '' trick insisted.

Albus took a trench hint and squeezed his way through the crew. He closed his middle and then stared at the list.

Keeper- GA Weasley, Gryffindor, 7th year.

That did n't surprise Albus in the least. In fact, he would have been shocked if Georgia had n't made the team. No wonderment she looked so excited when she ran into Albus.

Chaser- Damien Waverly, Ravenclaw, 7th year.
Chaser- Anna Reilly, Hufflepuff, 7th year.
Chaser- Ferris Henry Fielding, Slytherin, 7th year.

Albus felt a moving ridge of dashing hopes overcome him. He had n't made it. All the other pursuer were 7th old age, and captains of their respective theatre teams at that. Why had he thought he 'd be able to compete with them ?

He continued to register the list. There were still the substitute role player after all.

Beater- Andy Kaper, Hufflepuff, 5th year.
Beater- Allie Dwight Filley Davis, Ravenclaw, 4th year.

So, James I was n't going to be the only one who was n't a seventh year on the squad. That was in force. But still, well-nigh of the team were seventh years. All the team captains made the squad. That made sense. As sea captain, they were most in all probability the just Quidditch players in the school.

Seeker- James ceramist, Gryffindor, 4th year.

substitute Players

Keeper- Kate Waverly, Ravenclaw, 5th year.

Kate would be happy, Albus thought. She had been Albus 's dueling headwaiter final year. She was dainty and Albus was happy she at to the lowest degree got to be the reticence Keeper.

Chaser- Hailey Odelle, Slytherin, 7th year.
Chaser- Albus Potter, Gryffindor, 3rd year.

Albus gaped at the list. He blinked and read it again, just to make sure his middle were working properly. They were. He, Albus Severus Potter, was one of the reserve Chasers ! Suddenly, the letdown was gone and Albus felt as happy as he would have if he made the even team. Reserve was ripe than zero after all. Plus, there would n't be as lots pressure.

Beater- Talan Flint, Slytherin, 5th year.
Seeker- Lisa Galivant, Hufflepuff, 4th year.

Albus turned around and walked back to where his pal and friends were gathered.

`` I 'm a stockpile Chaser, '' he announced.

`` See ! '' James IV grinned, `` Told you you 'd make it ! ``

`` Well, I 'm not actually on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Yeah, you are, '' King James contradicted, `` Did n't you understand at the bottom where it said the reserve players have to go to practice session and everything ? ``

`` Er, no, '' Albus shrugged sheepishly. He had n't noticed much after his own name.

`` wellspring, that 's what it said, '' St. James the Apostle continued, `` First practice is on Saturday. ``

Albus tried to crop on his Potions essay later that evening, but it was no use. The commons room was in the midst of a party that usually only followed a spectacular win at Quidditch. Georgia, James IV, and eventually Albus were thrown into the throngs of it and he quickly gave up on his essay. No one else, besides rosiness and Linda, was working on prep and Albus figured it would be pointless to even try. Maybe Slughorn would n't hold enough time to even get to Albus 's essay due to the duration of rose 's and Linda's.

******

In fact, the rest of the week was much like that night in the Gryffindor unwashed elbow room. Albus seemed to attract attention wherever he went. On his way to class, in category, even on his way to the lavatory, people came up to him and congratulated him. pupil who he had never even talked to before were telling him what a brilliant pursuer he was. All in all, he was kind of shocked at the solid thing. It 's not like he was one of the main Chasers on the team.

Albus 's ally were kind of enjoying the whole affair. They were kind of attracting attention by association. John and Kaden were already known as 'those Gryffindor gent who rode the Giant Squid'and now had the added renown of being some of Albus 's tight friends. rosiness seemed oblivious to the whole thing and devoted more clip than ever to studying. flatness and Amanda seemed to wish they would n't pull so much attention.

even Lily and Hugo were attracting attention by being the sister and cousin-german of the Hogwarts Seeker. Albus 's fame paled in comparison to St. James 's. James had a radical of friend following him all the time. Lily and Victor-Marie Hugo told anyone they could that they were the sister and cousin of James. Ashtyn, whoremonger 's sister, told everyone she was the Sister of one of the bloke who rode the Giant Squid and that her brother was protagonist with Albus.

privy and Kaden had nightly detention with Filch and both boys came back quietly cursing Filch every eve. Apparently the caretaker was as ruthless as ever with his detentions.

The detention was n't the only thing Saint John the Apostle earned from his trip into the lake either. On Monday morning, he was blessed with a howler monkey from his female parent. Instead of running into the Entrance Hall like most educatee did with their sidesplitter, lavatory opened it at the Gryffindor table and the entire room, including the teachers, listened to lav 's mum screech at the top of her lungs about how stupefied he had been. John said it was worth it, though, and was n't fazed at all by the Howler.

Albus was relieved when the week was finally over. He was hoping that the excitement of the Hogwarts Quidditch team being picked would die down over the weekend.

On Saturday afternoon, Albus left his friends in the common elbow room and walked with Georgia and James I to the Quidditch pitch.

Oliver forest, Tyler freeway, and Teddy were already there, along with a few of the squad members. Albus stood with Georgia and James as they waited for the rest of the team to show up.

`` outset, I 'd like to say congratulations, '' Oliver announced once everyone arrived, `` You are now the Hogwarts Quidditch squad. I 'm King Oliver Natalie Wood and I will be your captain. chemise and Tyler are here to help.

`` Now, I know regular Quidditch is still going on, so we 'll have to shape around each house 's pattern schedules. I 've looked at those and I think Saturday good afternoon will work best for practice. For now, we 'll stupefy with once a week exercise and increase if necessary.

`` I thought we 'd start by doing a few drills, just so everyone can get used to playing with each former. I know it 'll be an adjustment, since you usually compete against the early menage, not play on the same team as them. ``

An modification was an understatement, Albus thought. As the praxis progressed, it became seeming that it was extremely difficult to work with members of former sign. Albus found that it was instinct to try and keep the Quaffle away from his fellow pursuer rather than to make pass it to them.

Wood, Teddy, and John Tyler tried to get everyone to sour together, but Albus thought it would take more than one practice. Everyone was rather subdued by the metre the practice ended. nonentity had been able-bodied to figure out together, except for James and Lisa. The two of them actually cooperated. But the chaser and Beaters in particular had a hard metre working together. Ferris fielding, Hailey Odelle, and Talan flint left the pitch muttering about how they could n't exploit with 'bloody Gryffindors'.

Ellen Price Wood looked ready to scream and throw things by the time everyone left. He was whispering to chemise and Tyler as Albus left with Jesse James and Georgia.

`` That was a disaster, '' Georgia groaned on their way back to the castle.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't know how this is going to sour. ``

`` It 's got to work, '' James II said adamantly, `` I mean, Lisa and I practiced just mulct with each other. Why ca n't everyone else ? ``

`` It 's Fielding and Odelle, '' Albus muttered, `` They would n't pass anyone else the Quaffle ! It 's like they 're trying to rise they 're the best chaser ! ``

`` Well, they 're idiots, then, '' King James said, `` And they better stop if they want to actually win this. ``

Albus definitely agreed with that. Henry Fielding and Odelle certainly were n't acting like team players. Fielding had actually pushed Albus out of the way in order to get the Quaffle before him.

Albus felt rather depressed about the praxis for the rest of the day. It seemed that the house competition really were frightening. Albus would be the first to acknowledge that the disliked Slytherin and certainly was n't lining up to become better friends with any of them, but he was willing to put the rivalry behind him for the sake of the Quidditch tournament. But it did n't appear like many other penis of the team wanted to do so.

Luckily for Albus, the renown of being a reserve role player on the team seemed to decrease during the following week. He was able to entrance up on his homework and spend time with just his friend, without anyone else following him.

Of course, spending time with Rose was beginning to be pointless. Albus could n't remember the hold out sentence he 'd had a existent conversation with her or seen her without a Bible open in straw man of her.

`` pink wine, you 've got to give it a rest, '' Albus said the come Sat. He was sitting in the commons elbow room, killing time before the second Quidditch practice. `` No one can possibly analyze this much. ``

`` I can, '' Rose muttered as she read, `` Linda can. She subject at Nox. I woke up in the midsection of the dark and saw her reading. I do n't think she sleeps. I 've heard her sneek out in the midriff of the dark before. I think she goes into the common room and written report. ``

Albus stared at rose. He had never seen her like this. Usually Rose was rational. `` Rose, I 'm good. study a intermission. ``

`` No, '' Rose said adamantly.

Albus sighed and got up to go to practice session. He was really disquieted about rosiness. Unfortunately, Quidditch practice did nil to move up his spirits. The practice was another disaster.

`` All rightfield, all right ! '' Wood shouted and motioned for everyone to fly down.

Albus landed succeeding to Henry James and looked at Mrs. Henry Wood. He was looking very very stern and determined.

`` We 've had two practice, '' Wood began to pace, `` Two practices and you 're still flying like you 're a team comprised of five-year-olds. Five-year-olds who do n't get along. I 'm puke of it. I agreed to captain the team because I thought you 'd be the estimable of Hogwarts 's Quidditch players. The ones who could someday roleplay professionally. But I 've been sorely disappointed.

`` The mansion rivalries are disrupting your playing. I 've got as much Gryffindor pride as the side by side Gryffindor, but I would put that aside if I had gotten the opportunity to do this while I was in school day. This is the chance of a life. You realize that there will be guide for pro team at these matches ?

`` In real biography, you 're going to have to work with masses you do n't like. So you 'd improve get used to it. All I have to say is that if you do n't shape up and put the petty bickering aside, I will not hesitate to kick you off the squad. I 'll hold you a calendar week to do it. If any of you are still fighting next Saturday, you 're off the team. recitation is over. ``

No one said a word as they filed out of the pitch. Albus thought Wood 's spoken language had been good. He was brainsick of the fighting as well. He 'd put the rivalries aside for the sake of Quidditch. After all, Albus was on the same dueling squad as Scorpius Malfoy and they acted civilly towards each other. Albus wondered if the Australian and New York team had had this many issues with getting along. He had n't watched any of their practices, but Georgia had. She said both team were incredibly good.

******

`` I ca n't take it anymore ! '' Rose shouted as she slammed her Scripture down on the table, which startled lusterlessness out of his homework and impending broad moon induced slumber.

Albus and his friends were in the Marauder 's Den, working on the plethora of preparation they had been assigned on that particular Monday. Albus, who had been watching Rose grow steadily more strain and snappish over the past times few days, knew it was only a subject of meter before she cracked.

`` Er, rosiness, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

`` No ! '' pink wine shouted so loudly that Matt winced and rubbed his foreland. `` I 'm not ok ! I ca n't take it ! I just ca n't ! nada I do is dependable enough, zero ! I just ca n't outsmart her. She got a higher grade on that Potions essay and she answered more question in Transfiguration today. Not to note the fact that she does n't look like she 's going to fall asleep at any moment, like John was so variety to point out about me earlier. '' Rose glared at John.

John shrugged. `` Well, you do .... ''

`` I know ! '' rosebush shouted.

Albus looked at his cousin. She did look ready to fall asleep at any moment. Her eyes had purpleness bags under them and were bloodshot. Combine that with the fact that she was nearly in tears, and she looked terrible. In fact, she looked an atrocious lot like Matt did.

`` rose, '' Amanda said quietly, `` You do n't cause to shell her at everything. ``

`` But I do ! '' Rose wailed, `` I do n't even know why, but I do ! ``

`` face, '' Amanda continued, `` She 's from Australia. They might teach stuff in a unlike order down there. Maybe she 's already learned this. But eventually, we 'll get to something she has n't learned and then maybe she wo n't beat you. ``

`` Maybe, '' rosiness sighed and poked lusterlessness, `` Matt ! Do you know what they 're learning in Commonwealth of Australia now ? Amy went there, did she tell you ? ``

flatness groaned and glared at Rose. `` No, how would I know ? Amy went there year ago. '' He stood up and walked slowly over to his bed and collapsed onto it.

`` Did I say something ? '' rosiness asked.

Albus sighed, `` You just woke him up. Do you even know what tomorrow is ? ``

`` Tomorrow ? '' Rose asked, `` What 's significant about tomorrow ? Oh, we 've got a defense lawyers essay due ! I have to edit mine ! ``

`` No, '' Albus groaned, `` Tomorrow 's the full moon. ``

rose wine froze. `` Oh, merlin. I had n't even realized. ``

`` I figured, '' Albus said, `` heed, you 're not doing anymore preparation tonight. ``

`` But I need to edit- ''

`` No, '' Albus said, `` You need a breaking. ``

`` Albus is ripe, '' Amanda agreed and took Rose 's muckle of books away, `` You 're not studying for the rest of the night. ``

`` Uh, ok, '' Rose smiled nervously, `` I can do that. I mean, what 's the high-risk that can take place ? ``

rose did n't appear to jazz what to do with herself. Albus found it difficult to centre on his own homework as he watched pink wine pace around the room, trying to figure out something to do. Eventually, she settled on helping Kaden with his Transfiguration of Jesus essay. Albus and Amanda exchanged glances at this, but neither of them said anything since Rose was n't technically doing any prep. She was merely helping Kaden.

Albus, Matt, King John, and Kaden twine up spending the dark in the Marauder 's Den. flatness had been so vocalize asleep by the time curfew arrived, that no one wanted to wake him up nor did anyone wishing to go away him there alone. Albus certainly did n't mind. He liked spending the night there. It gave him a sort of connective with his grandfather.



A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and all the awesome the great unwashed who have read and reviewed this !

Here 's the Weasley family unit tree, to aid everyone prevent caterpillar track of them.
Wealsey-Potter-Dursley Family Tree

Bill-Fleur Charlie-Katherine ( Wiccan ) Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Victoire, 19 Stanley, 18 GA, 7th year
Gabriella, 7th year Scots heather, 6th yr Bradley, 5th year
Ben, 4th year Mark, 5th year Cedric, 4th year
Eddie, 7 years old Samantha & lindy ( twins ), 8 geezerhood old

George-Alicia Spinnet Ron-Hermione Ginny-Harry
Fred, 6th class pink wine, 3rd year St. James the Apostle, 4th class
Angie, 10 years old Hugo, 1st twelvemonth Albus, 3rdd yr
Lily, 1st twelvemonth

Dudley-Christina ( Muggle )
Kaden- 2nd year
Bethany- 8 years old

*all in Gryffindor*


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Rose handed in her unedited essay to Balladanis the side by side aurora. Albus did notice her scribbling some death minute conviction onto it as Balladanis collected the essays.

United States Department of Defense Against the darkness fine art continued to be the unusual class in Albus 's schedule. Balladanis expressed such a impregnable dislike for the nighttime arts that he started nearly every class with a stern lecture about why they were learning defensive spells and why the wickedness artistic production were bad. His heart tended to remain on mat and for some odd reason, Linda, whenever he gave these talks and Albus got the flavour it made Matt extremely uncomfortable. Albus could n't blame him. He certainly would n't need to be under the teacher 's eye like that.

Albus could n't really say whether he enjoyed Balladanis 's social class or not. It had been nearly a month since the terminus started, but Albus still did n't know whether he liked the class or not. It was definitely different than when his dad taught. Balladanis was strict, but a undecomposed teacher.

The rest of the day went by quickly. Albus listened to John tease rose wine during Herbology since she was fretting about her defense force essay. Ancient runic letter was rather boring and Albus doodled idly on his notes while Matt fell asleep on his. Charms was rather fun since they worked on shouting Charms and Albus left the elbow room grinning profusely, along with nigh of the other form. Matt in peculiar looked strange with a huge grin across his pale fatigued face.

lustrelessness left for the screaming hovel shortly after dinner and Albus went to the piranha 's Den with his protagonist where they distracted pink wine from her studying by playing Wizard 's Chess.

The side by side day Albus truly began to realize how interfering his third year schedule was. For the past times two age, he and his friend almost always had time to visit matt in the Hospital Wing in between classes. This year, however, they did n't let time until after dinner. Albus was positively exhausted by that decimal point, as he had stayed up of late working on homework the night before, and still had Dueling night club practice afterwards. Lynley Anderson, the fourth class Hufflepuff who had replaced Kate as captain, had insisted that the whole squad attend that meeting, as it was the beginning one and there were new second years on the team. Kaden was n't put on Albus 's team, but he was put on John 's team, much to the delight of both boys.

Hectic was really the solitary way to name Albus 's life at Hogwarts. As September turned into October, it only got busier. Gryffindor Quidditch team practices picked up again and along with Hogwarts Quidditch practices and Dueling night club practices, Albus hardly had anytime to breathe.

The Hogwarts Quidditch team was shaping up nicely after Wood 's stern warning during the second practice. That and the fact that they now practiced on both Tuesdays and Saturdays. Even the Slytherin team penis were beginning to work together. They did n't really admit their mate outside of practice, but Albus did n't deal as long as they got along with everyone during practice.

Albus was really starting to relish the Hogwarts Quidditch team. He was actually beginning to wish well he could act as in the offset lucifer, which would be taking place towards the end of October.

`` first Hogsmeade weekend ! '' John said excitedly to Albus one Friday evening as Albus was trying to trip up up on his preparation. Kaden was standing next to him. Albus guessed they had just returned from Dueling society practice.

`` When ? '' Albus asked without looking up.

`` October 27th, '' Gospel According to John grinned, `` Ca n't wait ! ``

`` Yeah, it 'll be brilliant, '' Albus agreed, hoping he would n't have too much prep to go.

`` That 's not all, either, '' John went on, `` There 's a Halloween party that night. ``

`` You mean the Allhallows Eve feast ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, there 's an actual company ! '' John said, `` But it 's not on Halloween, it 's on the 27th. It 's because of the Tournament. So we can mingle with the foreign student. Or at least that 's what the placard on the card board says. ``

Albus nodded. He really had n't had that practically physical contact with the foreign scholar. Sure, he 'd seen them in the corridors and the common room and poppycock, but that was about it. The alone one who was around his age was Linda and she still did n't seem to tattle to anyone.

`` And, '' John continued, `` Costumes are encouraged. ``

`` Costumes ? '' Albus asked, finally looking up.

`` Yeah, costumes, '' can grinned, `` We get to dress up ! This is going to be magnificent ! ``

`` What should we lop up as ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` We 'll figure it out later, '' John said, `` Where 's everyone else ? ``

`` Rose and Amanda are at the library, '' Albus told him, `` And matt 's with Balladanis. ``

`` Merlin, is he ever going to give up about that boggart ? '' John asked.

`` Knowing Balladanis, probably not, '' Albus said.

`` Well, let 's go to the library, '' John announced, `` We 've got to tell pink wine and Amanda about Hogsmeade. ``

Albus was all too eager to check to this. He was thoroughly sick of trying to catch up on all his homework. It was good to take a breakout every now and then anyway.

Albus pushed open the doorway to the depository library a little while later, fully expecting to see blush wine up to her elbows in Koran furiously scribbling away on a roll of parchment that was nearly used up. He gazed around the library and he spotted rose 's bushy red hair and walked towards her table.

Rose was up to her cubital joint in homework. In fact, there were so many books on Rose and Amanda 's table that you could no longer see the existent table. What Albus was n't expecting to see was a third gear someone at their mesa. Linda Morales

Albus stopped short a few feet from the mesa. He turned to look at John, who looked equally shocked.

`` Is that- '' John began.

`` Linda Morales ? '' Albus gaped. He blinked twice to make indisputable he was n't seeing things. After all, he was quite tired. But even after he blinked, Linda was still sitting across from Rose and Amanda.

All three of the girls were working quietly. In fact, none of them even seemed to notice the others.

Albus slowly walked towards the tabular array and John followed. Albus was n't entirely sure what to say. He had n't had a lot interaction with Linda. Albus had hardly said how-do-you-do to her since she arrived at Hogwarts. He was n't trying to disregard her or anything ; it had just ended up that way. Linda had n't shown any really interest in making friends with Albus or any of his friend. Yet here she was, doing homework at the same mesa as Rose of all people. Albus had n't the svelte mind why either.

`` blush wine, '' Albus whispered once they arrived at the table.

Rose startled and then looked up at Albus. `` What ? I 'm trying to study ! ``

`` Can I talk to you ? '' Albus glanced at Linda, `` Alone ? ``

Rose sighed loudly. `` mulct, but make it quick. ``

Albus led his cousin over to a abandoned area of the program library. john took rosiness 's abandon nates and began to whisper to Amanda about the Hogsmeade visit.

`` All right, what is it ? '' rose asked once they were alone.

`` Could n't help but detect that you were studying with Linda ... '' Albus 's voice trailed off. He really did n't know what he wanted to say to prove about it.

`` Oh, well ... '' Rose began, `` I guess I just realized I was being stupid in trying to vie with her. ``

Albus smirked, `` Yeah, you were. But I told you that loads of time and you did n't listen. ``

Rose sighed. `` I know. Amanda 's the one who convinced me to cease trying to compete with her. She said Linda would make love a lot about Aboriginal Australian wizarding history and I could determine a lot from her if I stopped with the contender thing. ``

Of course, Albus thought. Appealing to Rose 's honey of learning would definitely work. Although he had n't really been trying to have blush wine and Linda get friend. He just wanted Rose to ease up on the studying.

`` I guess, if you ca n't beat 'em, you might as well join 'em, '' rosebush shrugged.

`` So now you 're Friend with her ? '' Albus asked.

`` That 's where it gets complicated, '' pink wine sighed, `` You see, she still does n't really talk to us. ``

`` How did you wind up studying with her then ? '' Albus was still thoroughly confused.

`` Amanda and I came in and she was sitting alone at the table, so I asked if we could join her. She just nodded and moved her Quran over. She has n't said anything yet. ``

Albus nodded. `` I do n't think I 've heard her say anything outside of class. ``

`` Neither have I, '' blush wine said, `` Amanda and I figure we 'll just be gracious to her and maybe she 'll start talking to us. ``

Albus thought that was probably a good idea. She was the competition, but even if they played against each other on the Quidditch team, that did n't signify they could n't be friends off of it. Linda seemed nice enough. Of path it was severely to differentiate since she had n't said a great deal. And she certainly was pretty. Albus could n't traverse that. Linda was n't surrounded by half the male population of Gryffindor every evening for nothing.

`` Oh, the first Hogsmeade visit 's on Oct 27th, '' Albus said, suddenly remembering the reason he had gone to see blush wine in the inaugural post, `` Followed by a Halloween party in the Great vestibule. ``

`` That sounds like fun, '' rose grinned, `` And maybe Linda will want to go with us. ``

`` And it 's a dress up party, '' Albus told her.

`` This could get matter to, '' Rose said.

******

Albus did n't have a clue as to when he 'd actually experience time to figure out his costume for the Hallowe'en party. John the Divine thought it would be cool if their chemical group 's costumes coordinated, but that was the cobbler's last thing on Albus 's mind.

The weekend seemed to literally fly by for Albus, meaning he was on the Quidditch slant Sir Thomas More than he was off it. He had heard stories about wood 's ruthlessness when it comes to practice session from his dad and standardized chronicle about Teddy from his older cousins. Having the two of them captain one squad seemed to create practice session that lasted nearly five hour, with short breaks every so often. Albus would never again complain about Georgia 's length of practices.

Albus had a fleeting thought that since he was a reserve player, he would n't have to practice as a lot as everyone else, but Sir Henry Wood shot that down during that Saturday 's exercise. He said he saw no intellect for the reserve players to be any less fix for the forthcoming match than the regular players.

It was n't that Albus did n't enjoy Quidditch practice. He did, and very much so. He loved Quidditch, but too much of anything could run a person down.

Albus spent a lot of his Sunday on the Quidditch pitching as well, in the midsection of a drenching rainfall. Georgia had scheduled Gryffindor Quidditch practice that day and she flat out refused to cancel due to rain. St. James had asked. He was even more run down than Albus, since either teddy or Tyler were constantly training the two searcher during Hogwarts Quidditch practice.

Albus returned to Gryffindor towboat after eating a former dinner party with the Gryffindor squad Billy Sunday evening, realizing he had no mind what his friends had spent the weekend doing. He had seen them on occasion, but near of his unloosen clock time had been spent doing preparation or sleeping. Two thing he still had to do.

Albus grabbed his bag from his dormitory and walked down to the crowded vulgar room. He saw rose wine, Amanda, and Linda at one table, but his other protagonist were no where in sight. The fille looked very absorbed in their homework, so Albus decided to go correspond the vulture 's Den for his other friends.

By the time Albus made it to the Marauder 's Den, he felt ready for a serious XII hour sleep. Unfortunately, he still had peck of prep to do. Albus sighed to himself and opened the door to the way. He paused in the entranceway, surprised to see that Matt was the only one there.

`` Hey, Matt, '' Albus said as he sat down at the table.

`` Oh, hi Albus, '' Matt looked up and smiled, `` I was wondering when you 'd shew up. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said wryly, `` I never thought GA would end practice. ``

`` make me sword lily I 'm not on the Quidditch team, '' matt commented.

`` Where are Saint John the Apostle and Kaden ? ``

`` Detention, again, '' lusterlessness smirked.

`` What did they do this time ? '' Albus groaned. John and Kaden had been earning quite a few detentions every week. Albus was quite glad they were n't involving him in their pranks, since he had no usable time in his schedule for detention.

`` They were levitating axial rotation of throne theme around the corridors and charming them to hit people in the head yesterday, '' Matt explained, `` I think you were at Quidditch practice. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus laughed, `` Wonder what they 're in for this time. ``

`` No estimation, '' Matt said.

`` What are you doing here ? Rose and Amanda are in the coarse room. ``

`` Yeah, I know. But they 're with Linda, '' matte muttered.

`` Oh, ok, '' Albus replied, a little confused. He still did n't quite see why Matt did n't seem to like Linda. Sure, she was from Commonwealth of Australia, but lusterlessness was n't avoiding anyone else from Commonwealth of Australia. Of course, the remainder of the Australian students were older and lustrelessness would n't really accept to avoid them.

`` bathroom said Rose is actually trying to go friends with Linda. ``

`` She is, '' Albus confirmed, `` She 's finally realized that it 's pointless to try and compete with Linda. ``

`` I guess that 's sound, '' Matt shrugged.

John and Kaden burst into the elbow room a little patch later, successfully ending the conversation about Rose and Linda. Both of them were freely cursing Filch, who had made them clean the entryway Hall without magic. Once they finally seemed to run out of curses, all four boys settled into doing their homework and no one brought up the topic of Linda again. Albus still thought it was odd how Matt seemed to possess taken a dislike to her, although Linda herself was rather odd, in Albus 's opinion.

rose and Amanda joined Linda at her table during Transfiguration the next day. Linda had arrived before them, as always, and did n't seem to notice or care that rose and Amanda sat on either side of her.

The Lapp thing happened in double Potions after lunch. rosebush, Amanda, and Linda even worked together on that day 's potion. Slughorn had decided to yield up on the inter-house couple idea of the previous year, which Albus was very thankful for. Linda had previously worked alone on her potions because there was an odd number of hoi polloi in the class, but Slughorn did n't object to all three little girl working together. In fact, he seemed thrilled that the two smartest people in the family were now working with each other.

`` Ah, yes ! '' Slughorn exclaimed excitedly as he peered into their cauldron, `` Your potion is turning just the right shade of green. ``

Albus looked up from his and lustrelessness 's slightly brownness potion and saw Slughorn gently stirring the little girl'cauldron.

`` Ours is better, '' Malfoy muttered from behind Albus. He was working with Jackson Limbert, Albus 's pardner from the previous year. Malfoy and Limbert were easily the two best Slytherin potion-brewers in the class.

Albus turned around and looked at Malfoy 's cauldron. It was indeed the correct wraith of green.

`` And what are you looking at, potter ? '' Malfoy asked, `` covetous that I 'm Limbert 's partner now ? I doubt your potions grade will be be that near with Eckerton as your partner. ``

`` At least I 'm partnering with him for a cause other than trying to get a properly grad, '' Albus glowered at him.

`` Yeah, well ... '' Malfoy 's interpreter trailed off.

Albus smirked to himself and turned back around, happy that Malfoy could n't do up with a good comeback.

At the end of the class, Slughorn announced that Rose, Amanda, and Linda 's potion had been the topper, much to Malfoy 's discouragement.

`` You 'd better watch out at the Dueling Tournament, '' Malfoy seethed as they left the room.

`` We 're on the same team, Malfoy, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't talking to you, '' Malfoy turned and glared at rose wine, Amanda, and Linda.

`` Is that a terror, Malfoy ? '' toilet asked loudly.

`` I think you can figure that out for yourself, Brickston, '' Malfoy said as he turned in the direction of the Slytherin unwashed room, flanked by Limbert and Goyle.

`` He 's just green-eyed, '' rosiness muttered as they made their way out of the dungeons.

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` But he 's a good dueler, much as I hate to include it. ``

`` Chances are, I wo n't even duel him, Albus, '' Rose sighed, `` And even if I do, there 's only so many spells he 's allowed to use. ``

Albus did n't bother reminding Rose about the Slytherin who used a prevent curse on mat last class. Albus was form of care about one of his protagonist having to duel Malfoy. Malfoy was the only one Albus had ever dueled and did n't manage to crush. And Albus had beaten scholar who were two years sr. than he was.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awful people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` All right, we need to descend up with a just costume idea, '' John announced the following Sabbatum as he flew poorly made parchment aeroplane around the Marauder 's Den.

`` Definitely, '' Kaden agreed as his much better sheepskin airplane flew gracefully over John 's head and landed softly on the couch.

`` Anyone got any ideas ? '' Matt asked.

`` Have n't even thought about it, '' Albus muttered as he tried not to move anymore muscles than he had to. He just completed a four minute Hogwarts Quidditch practice session, which mainly focused on dodging Bludgers. Unfortunately, Albus had n't dodged them all.

`` You should go see Madam Pomfrey, '' mat told him.

`` I 've already been there twice this week, '' Albus groaned, `` If this keeps up, I 'll damp your record. I 'm fine, I just need nap. Georgia canceled practice for tomorrow because of the Dueling tournament, so I think I 'll be fine. ``

`` Back to the costumes, '' bathroom said, `` I was thinking that we could be the predator. You know, their fleshly pattern. ``

Albus craned his headway to see whoremaster. John looked quite excited by this idea. Albus had to include that it was a pretty good idea. He could affix imposter antlers to his pass. Or see if one of his older cousin-german could transfigure some onto his head.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden shouted excitedly.

`` I like it, '' Albus grinned.

`` No bloody way, '' Matt said flatly, `` I am not dressing up as a werewolf in front man of the full schoolhouse. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. No, there was definitely no way Matt could do that.

`` Oh, right wing, '' John sighed, `` Sorry, had n't thought about that. ``

`` How about we just dress up as the Marauders in their man forms ? '' Albus suggested. All he 'd take in to do is get a twosome of stave black glasses and he 'd be set.

`` I do n't recognize ... '' Matt said, `` Everyone knows shift 's dad was a loup-garou. What if they realize that I 'm one, too, since I dressed up as him ? ``

`` I bet people will just opine we dressed up as them because of Albus, '' john pointed out, `` And soul would ingest to be Moony. might as well be you. You probably look the most like him anyway. ``

`` He does, '' Albus said.

`` See ? '' John replied.

`` Yeah, but still ... '' Matt sighed.

`` It does n't matter, '' Kaden said, `` Because there is no way that I am dressing up as Pettigrew unless it 's his rat form. ``

That Albus could definitely understand. `` Ok, so I guess we 're not doing the Marauders affair. ``

`` Too bad, '' John sighed, `` Would 've been cool. ``

`` Says the lad who would n't make to dress up as a traitor, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` And we 're back to feather one, '' Albus said, `` Any former idea ? ``

`` The histrion from Puddlemere United ? '' John suggested after a few minutes. `` You know, if Rose, Amanda, and Linda joined us, we 'd have enough people to be the intact squad. ``

`` Why not the Cannons ? '' mat asked.

`` Because they 're awful, '' John groaned.

`` Are not, '' Matt refuted.

`` Are to, '' John said, `` Let 's be Puddlemere. ``

`` Cannons, '' matte said adamantly.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` Who ? '' John and mat said at the Saami time.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden repeated, `` Football team. ``

Both John and Matt groaned. `` Puddlemere, '' John said once again.

`` shank. ``

`` Manchester. ''

`` Puddlemere. ``

`` None of them ! '' Albus shouted. He was already fractious due to his aching muscles and fatigue from Quidditch practice. The last matter he wanted to do was listen to his protagonist fuss about Quidditch and football game teams.

`` fountainhead, have you got any other ideas ? '' privy asked.

`` Actually, yeah, '' Albus replied. lustrelessness 's mention of not wanting to clip up as a werewolf had sparked an estimate. Albus had been mulling it over while his friends argued about Quidditch teams.

`` What is it ? '' Matt asked.

`` Well, I kind of mentation it would be swell to use Muggle costumes, '' Albus said, `` You know, we can dress up as matter Muggles usually dress up as on Halloween. ``

flatness, John, and Kaden stared at Albus for a few moments. Albus shrugged. He had thought it was a good musical theme, but maybe his fatigue was clouding his thinking. Then, all three of his acquaintance broke out in Brobdingnagian grins.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden shouted, `` No one else will recall of it ! ``

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` We 'll be the only unity at the party with Muggle costumes. ``

`` As long as I do n't have to get dressed up as a werewolf, I 'm amercement with it, '' matt said.

Albus grinned. `` Good. Kaden, what are some classic Muggle costumes ? ``

`` touch, Wiccan, vampire, skeletons, mom, '' Kaden rattled off, `` Oh, and zombies. Frankenstein's monster, too. ``

Albus had no idea who Frankenstein was and he was n't in the humour to heed to Kaden explicate it, but the early musical theme were good. `` Who wants to be what ? '' Albus asked.

`` Matt should be a lamia, '' Kaden grinned.

`` Why 's that ? '' Albus asked.

`` Vampires and werewolf are mortal enemies, '' Kaden explained, `` At to the lowest degree in the Muggle world. ``

`` In this human beings, too, '' flatness muttered, `` And I 'm not dressing up as a vampire. ``

`` Aw, fare on, '' can said.

`` No, '' Matt said adamantly, `` I 'm being a wraith. The only if doubtfulness is, how do I make myself gauze-like. ``

`` Aw, no ! '' Kaden sighed, `` When Muggles dress as ghosts, they just put a snowy shroud with eye mess over themselves. That 's what Muggles think ghostwriter are. White. ``

`` Oh, that makes things well-situated, '' lusterlessness laughed, `` But seriously ? ``

`` Yep, '' Kaden laughed, `` Edward White sheets. Now, what about the rest of us ? ``

A half an hour later, everyone had settled on what they were going to raiment up as. With Kaden 's supporter, that is. Albus, matte, and lav really had no idea as to what Muggles wore when they dressed up for Hallowe'en. John the Divine insisted on being a vampire, much to matt 's disgust. However, John was going to be a definitive Muggle vampire. The ugly, waxy, blood-stained sassing, turn into a bat eccentric of lamia that Muggles persuasion of when they heard the word 'vampire'. Albus did n't fuck much about vampires, but he knew they were n't completely like the 1 Muggles thought of.

Kaden was going to dress up as a mummy, which was a very simple costume. All he 'd deliver to do was incur a bunch of airstrip of white cloth. Albus said he 'd peck some up in Hogsmeade.

Albus was going to be a skeleton, which was the most difficult of all the costumes. He was going to buy a black long-sleeve T-shirt and a twain of black pants and then paint on pearl in whiten blusher. He was hoping Amanda would be able to aid with it. She was the exclusively one in their mathematical group who had any aesthetic talent.

`` Maybe the girls can be hag, '' Kaden suggested.

`` They are beldam, '' John smirked.

`` You know what I mean, '' Kaden sighed.

`` I know, '' John grinned, `` Hey, Albus, catch ! ``

Albus snapped his centre open up just in time to see a Quaffle come soaring across the room. It hit him right in the stomach before he had a chance to catch it.

`` Oh, ow ! '' Albus groaned and curled up, `` That 's where I got hit with a Bludger ! ``

`` Brilliant, John the Divine, '' flatness sighed, `` Are you ok, Albus ? ``

Albus squeezed his heart shut and nodded. It did hurt. It hurt a lot. A lot more than it should, he thought. He was sick of getting pelted by Bludgers during recitation.

`` Albus ? '' John asked worriedly, `` Merlin, I 'm no-account. I did n't mean to hit you with it. ``

`` It 's ok, '' Albus whispered. He inhaled sharply. Now it was getting hard to breath. This was not good.

`` Albus, you 've got to go to the hospital fender, '' Matt announced. He walked over to Albus and helped him off the couch. `` C'mon. ``

Albus nodded. There was no tip in objecting. He knew he had to go. But honestly, three times in one week seemed excessive.

The Hospital backstage was empty when Albus stumbled inside, being supported by lusterlessness and John the Divine, a little while later. Madam Pomfrey came out of her office when she heard the door unfastened. She saw who it was and threw her hired hand up in the air.

`` You again ! '' she groaned, `` Let me think. Quidditch ? ``

Albus nodded and collapsed onto the nearest bed.

`` Well, what did you spite this time ? '' the nurse asked.

`` Bludger in the stomach, '' Albus replied, not bothering to bring up that John the Evangelist hit him with a Quaffle as well.

brothel keeper Pomfrey clucked her clapper and waved her scepter over Albus. `` Broken rib. That 's the s one this week, '' she waved her sceptre again and pressed it to Albus 's ribs. Then she bustled away to a Potions cupboard.

Albus 's stomach immediately felt better and he sank back into the bed. The quietus of his heftiness still ached, though, and he wanted nothing more than to light asleep rightfulness there.

Madam Pomfrey returned a few minutes later and shove a potion into Albus 's hands. He drank it quickly and grimaced at the disgusting taste.

`` You 're staying the night, '' she announced in a feeling that Albus knew not to argue with. Not that he really felt like arguing anyway. He was just too exhausted.

ma'am Pomfrey turned to mat, John, and Kaden. `` You lot can return to Gryffindor. Albus needs to reside. ``

Albus 's Quaker said good dark and then left the room.

`` I 'll be speaking with Professor Kendrick, '' Madam Pomfrey muttered to herself, `` Honestly, what was he thinking ? Twice the amount of Quidditch ? Twice the sum of money of injury is what I say ! ``

Albus did n't accept the faintest idea as to what Madam Pomfrey wanted Kendrick to do, but he did n't think about it for long. debilitation overcame him and he was asleep within minutes.

******

Albus awoke feeling better than he had in twenty-four hour period. One look at the clock told him why. He had slept over 12 hours. It was just after xi o'clock. Two hours until the Dueling Tournament. Albus pulled the blankets off and started to get up.

`` Where do you imagine you 're going ? '' Madam Pomfrey appeared at his bed.

`` Er, the uncouth room ? '' Albus slowly sat back down, `` The Dueling Tournament is in two hours. ``

`` Dueling ? You think I 'm going to let you duel ? '' Madam Pomfrey demanded.

`` Well, yeah, '' Albus muttered. Come to recollect of it, he actually was n't surprised that the nurse was n't going to let him duel.

`` Definitely not ! '' she exclaimed, `` You 're spending the day in bed ! ``

`` ejaculate on ! '' Albus groaned, `` please ? '' He had to duel. He was practically the Charles Herbert Best on his team. What would Malfoy say when he did n't show up ?

`` I wo n't deliver it ! '' Madam Pomfrey said, `` You were bushed on your foot last Nox ! You 're going to remain today ! ``

Albus groaned in defeat. He was going to lose the get-go Dueling tournament of the yr, because of a Quidditch hurt. His two favorite things to do were now conflicting with each other.

Madam Pomfrey brought a tray of breakfast, or maybe it should consume been lunch, for Albus a little while later. He was n't in the mood to eat, though. Why could n't he just go to the tournament ? He felt ticket now.

Matt, lavatory, Kaden, Amanda, Rose, and for some reason, Linda, burst into the infirmary fender just as Albus was finishing up his food. Madam Pomfrey looked a bit taken aback at the amount of visitant, but she did n't say anything.

`` Albus ! '' John shouted, `` Dueling 's in an hour. You going to be getting out of here soon ? ``

`` She wo n't let me go, '' Albus muttered.

`` What ? '' Saint John the Apostle exclaimed, `` Why not ? ``

`` She says I need to stay, '' Albus explained.

`` Honestly, it would own surprised me if she did let you go, '' lusterlessness commented.

`` I 'll convince her, Albus, '' Gospel According to John announced and walked over to where brothel keeper Pomfrey was organizing potions. `` You 've got to let Albus duel. ``

`` I do not have to do any such thing, '' she replied, not looking up.

`` But it 's Kaden 's world-class tournament, '' John pointed out.

`` I would n't care if it was Merlin 's first tournament, I 'm not letting Albus go. ``

`` Please ? '' John the Evangelist begged.

`` No, '' she said, `` And if you do n't give up contestation, I 'll make you impart. ``

John sighed and walked glumly back to Albus 's bed. `` Sorry, '' he muttered, `` And this was variety of my fault since I threw that Quaffle at you. ``

`` No it was n't, '' Albus assured him, `` A Quaffle would n't have broke my ribs. It was that Bludger from Quidditch exercise. ``

`` But still ... '' John said.

Albus 's friends remained in the hospital wing until it was time for them to go to the Dueling tournament. It was sorting of tense, and Albus could only attribute this to the fact that Linda was there. It was foreign how somebody who never said a Good Book could do the rest of Albus 's protagonist to remain quiet as well.

After his supporter left, Albus was filled with tedium. The Hospital flank really was a tiresome place, especially when you were n't actually macabre or injured. Albus began to count the offer on the ceiling, but lost track after 467.

It was n't until after the tourney was over that Madam Pomfrey actually let Albus leave. He figured she had n't let him leave behind earlier since then she would 've had no way to know he would n't go to the tournament.

Albus jumped out of bed as soon as he promised Madam Pomfrey that he would n't run Quidditch that day. He ran as fast as he could down to the dueling chamber, hoping that the tournament was still going on.

Unfortunately, scholarly person were already streaming out of the room chattering excitedly about the tournament. Albus sighed dejectedly and slumped against the paries, where he waited for his friends.

`` Hey, Albus, '' mat said.

`` Oh, hey, Matt, '' Albus replied, `` Who won ? ``

`` My team. No thanks to me, of course of instruction. ``

`` Who 'd Malfoy duel ? '' Albus asked, thinking of his threat to Rose and Amanda.

`` Some Slytherin second yr and a Ravenclaw quarter year, '' Matt answered.

Albus nodded, relieved that he had n't dueled either rosebush or Amanda.

`` Albus ! '' someone shouted excitedly.

Albus turned around and saw Kaden with a huge grin on his nerve. privy was standing side by side to him, looking equally happy.

`` Hey, bathroom, Kaden, '' Albus smiled.

`` I won one of my duels ! '' Kaden announced, `` I dueled a Ravenclaw and I actually beat him ! ``

`` That 's great, '' Albus told him, still wishing that he had gotten to bewilder a Ravenclaw. Or a Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Gryffindor.

`` But he was horribly beaten in his second affaire d'honneur, '' Saint John the Apostle laughed.

`` At least I won one of them, '' Kaden smirked.

`` Yeah, yeah, '' John muttered.

`` Did you lose both ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, '' John sighed.

The son set off for Gryffindor tugboat, figuring they 'd catch up with the little girl once they were up there. Albus was eager to see Amanda because he wanted to know how his team had done.

Amanda, Rose, and Linda were talking about the tournament when Albus entered the common room. He was shocked to see that Linda was actually talking. Although, she immediately stopped when Albus and the other boys showed up.

Apparently Albus 's squad had came in second place. Amanda said they were only two points behind Matt 's team, which caused Albus to care even more that he had been there. He could accept easily gotten the two points they needed. Amanda said that Malfoy thought the same thing, because he shouted angrily about Albus not being there once they announced the winner. Albus was kind of amused by this. He never thought Malfoy would ever be lamenting Albus 's absence seizure from anything.

The group, including Linda, spent the rest of the good afternoon in the vernacular room. It was sort of odd, though. Linda did n't say a word, yet rose and Amanda tried to take her in every conversation. mat remained almost completely deaf-and-dumb person, whispering quietly so only Albus and John could hear what he was saying. Kaden of course did n't discover any of this and talked as loudly as he usually did. It did n't really help oneself that various male child kept coming up to Linda and asking her useless doubt about Australia and Quidditch and assorted former topics. Linda gave them very short, quiet down answers. trick paid rapt attention to every piffling thing she said.

`` So, '' rosebush began, `` First Quidditch peer in a week. Australia versus New House of York. Are you nervous, Linda ? ``

Albus stared at blush wine. He could n't recall the survive time Rose actually brought up Quidditch in a conversation.

`` A bit, '' Linda muttered, not looking up.

`` well, I hope you win, '' Rose smiled, `` Since Hogwarts is n't playing. ``

`` Thanks, '' Linda whispered.

Albus was looking forward to the offset match. He was glad he was n't playing in it. His team would be capable to assess both Australia and New York 's acquisition before they played either team. That was definitely good for strategy. Then when they actually played, they 'd be able-bodied to use the squad 's weaknesses to their vantage. Sir Henry Joseph Wood had given them specific guidance to look for weaknesses in both teams. Of course of study, luck are Albus would n't be playing in the first base Hogwarts match, or really any of the matches.

Albus walked down to dinner with his friends and Linda sat in between rosebush and Amanda. He glanced absentmindedly at the staff tabular array as he scooped mashed Solanum tuberosum onto his home base and noticed a new wizard talking with the headmaster from Australia. He was a rather unawares man, compared to Killigan, and his face seemed to experience absolutely no emotion on it. His dirty blonde hair sat flat on his head and fell over his eyes. He was wearing plain black robes.

`` I wonder who that bloke is, '' Albus said to John as he pointed at the staff table.

`` Dunno, '' can shrugged, not really seeming interested.

Rose turned to attend at him. `` Probably some bloke from Australia, I 'd be guessing. I imagine a few people from Australia and New York will visit to see what 's going on with the tournament. ``

`` Recognize him, lusterlessness ? '' Albus asked.

Matt looked up and then quickly turned away. `` No. ``

`` How about you, Linda ? '' rosiness asked.

`` No, '' Linda whispered.

Albus shrugged and returned to his dinner. It seemed like he was really the only one concerned in the unfamiliar wizard at the stave table. Was he really only there to see the tourney ? The Quidditch match was n't for another week, so why was he there already ? Would he really be spending the whole week at Hogwarts ?

Kendrick stood up after dinner started to weave down. Albus immediately stopped eating and paid tending. Maybe he was going to enjoin everyone who the strange superstar was.

`` If I could have your care for just one moment, '' Kendrick announced, `` Thank you. When I first began to organize this competition, I always thought we would continue with the common Hogwarts Quidditch Cup tournament like usual, but I did n't believe about what affect it would have on the players who would run on both their menage team and the Hogwarts team. ``

Albus had a flavor he knew where this was going and it had everything to do with that public lecture madam Pomfrey said she was going to have with Kendrick. Albus sank lowly in his keister and tried not to look at anyone.

`` It 's come to my attention that playing on two Quidditch teams at once is much Sir Thomas More piece of work than could get been anticipated. Therefore, I have decided to cancel the Quidditch Cup tournament for this year only, while the tournament is going on. ``

`` What ? ! '' Over half the way erupted in various shout and jeers. Albus sank even low-toned in his nates. This was all his shift. He was the one who had been to the hospital Wing so many times that hebdomad. He had gotten Quidditch canceled for the whole school.

`` tranquillity down, '' Kendrick shouted, `` It 's what 's undecomposed for the players. Plus, it 's been rather tight to bosom in so many practices for so many team. We only have one Quidditch pitch. With four less teams to accommodate, it 'll be easygoing to schedule drill. This is my concluding word on the subject. Remember that we still have excellent Quidditch going on this year. ``

`` I should n't have gone to see brothel keeper Pomfrey last dark, '' Albus muttered.

`` Albus, this is n't your error, '' rosiness assured him, `` You 're not the solitary one who 's been injured legion time. ``

That was true. Pretty lots everyone on the Hogwarts team had been to see brothel keeper Pomfrey at least once a week since the beginning of terminus. So maybe it was n't all his fault. Plus, there was the scheduling conflicts on the delivery. Albus had witnessed a few fights between the firm captains that certainly could n't be good for teamwork on the Hogwarts team.

Albus had to let in that life would be a lot leisurely without Gryffindor team practices. Now he would only be practicing Quidditch twice a week. Well, woods would probably increase it to three multiplication now that Kendrick canceled the sign of the zodiac Quidditch. But even that would be lupus erythematosus than he had been doing. He might even have an evening or two off a week now.

The Gryffindor squad was sitting together in the common way when Albus returned. Empire State of the South immediately flagged him over.

`` I still do n't like it, '' Fred sighed, `` Now I do n't get to play at all this yr. ``

`` Yeah, well I do n't get to play for Gryffindor in my seventh twelvemonth, but it really is for the proficient, '' Sakartvelo said.

`` I 'll say, '' Saint James agreed, `` I 'm already behind on homework and it 's only October. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` Just think, Fred, '' Heather began, `` following yr, one of us will be captain. ``

`` It 'll be me, '' Fred announced.

`` Really ? '' Heather raised an eyebrow.

`` Yeah, Gryffindor 's had two missy captains recently. It 's time for another fellow. ``

heather mixture rolled her eyes. `` Not if I 'm a good leader. ``

`` What makes you think it 'll be either of you ? '' Omar Nelson Bradley asked, `` It might be Ryan or I. We 'll be 6th yr. They do n't always choose one-seventh years. ``

`` Maybe, '' Fred replied, `` I 'm still going to lose it, though. ``

`` We could playact pick-up lucifer on the weekends, '' Ryan suggested.

`` I guess, '' Fred sighed.

Albus remained tranquillity for the rest period of the fourth dimension with the team. Although he did n't blame himself for the cancellation of star sign Quidditch, he felt guilty that he was relieved it was canceled. But most of the team was far from glad about it. In fact, it seemed like only James and Albus were relieved.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this fib ! You guy cable are amazing !

Frankenstien belongs to Mary Shelley.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was amazed at how much supernumerary time he had now that he did not possess to go to Gryffindor Quidditch practice session. During the future week, he got all his preparation done on metre and got a decent amount of nap. Plus, he made fewer trips to the hospital extension, which he attributed to having more sleep.

Classes were going well. Albus was very glad they had moved onto more shake up animate being in Care of Magical creature. They were n't up to hippogriffs or thestrals, but nifflers were certainly entertaining. Despite the rather drilling start, charge of Magical beast was quickly becoming one of Albus 's preferred course. He seemed to have an affinity for the variety of animate being they learned about ; something Hagrid was agile to notice.

Arithmancy was turning out to be variety of dry, but Albus was just happy he was n't taking Divination. Even lav was beginning to get sap of making up pretender forecasting for Trelawney. 'What 's the item ?'he had shouted out angrily one night as they were working on homework. Albus was n't able to subdue his smile at that, which earned him a foretelling rule book to the promontory when bathroom saw Albus 's smirk.

Defense Against the dark nontextual matter continued to be the strangest class Albus had ever attended. He was beginning to imagine he was enjoying it, but still was n't sure. He liked the class, but was n't certainly if he liked Balladanis himself.

The professor continued to be a mystery to students of all years. Hours were spent debating his background in the common elbow room. He seemed to take points away equally from each house, which either meant he was extremely fair or had never attended Hogwarts himself. Quite a few scholar had asked their parents if they 'd ever heard of Balladanis ( namely, had they gone to school with him ), but so far none of the parents had.

Balladanis 's teaching method acting were certainly unique. Albus could count on one hand the number of literal lectures he had had in that class. near all the deterrent example were hard-nosed, but not in the same way Harry had done them. Harry 's method acting had been very caring and all about trying. Balladanis 's methods were more harsh and focused on success. He insisted that everyone follow and refused to let anyone stop until they did, even if it meant coming in for supererogatory help.

The sum of money of scholar going in for spear carrier help was increasing quickly. Matt was no longer seen as weak or odd for having to go in for extra help. Nearly half of Albus 's grade was spending additional time with Balladanis at to the lowest degree once a week. The professor still had n't let Matt intercept going.

`` tie-up up ! '' Balladanis barked at Albus 's class.

These two Holy Writ were frequently spoken by the professor. Albus wondered why he did n't just do away with the desks all together instead of having to move them at the starting time of each class.

`` Get a move on ! '' he shouted, `` Unless you think your rule book will attack you. book can only get you so far. You need to practice ! ``

The course spent nearly an time of day practicing the turn to push back grindylows and once the Vanessa Bell rang, Balladanis announced that they 'd be practicing on real grindylows in the next class.

`` Brickston ! '' Balladanis announced, `` You 'll be coming in for additional assist tomorrow night. You may come the Saame time Eckerton does. ``

Albus did n't think John had done that bad with the trance. It had taken him a patch, but by the end of the class he had managed it. Albus was beginning to think that by the end of the twelvemonth, everyone would be going in for extra help.

`` He 's certifiably insane, '' toilet muttered as they walked to potions after they left the Defense classroom.

`` Well, I 'm kind of glad you 're going in for assistant, '' Matt said, `` You can keep Amanda and I company. ``

`` That 's nearly all of us going in for help, '' rosiness commented, `` Just Al and Linda and I. ``

Kaden had been going for help nearly as long as matt had. Amanda had started a few days ago.

`` Albus wo n't ever have to go, '' mat said, `` He 's too good at defense. ``

`` I 'm not that great at it, '' Albus muttered quietly. certain, he managed all the spells, but it 's not like they were very advanced.

******

`` What do you recall Balladanis did before he taught here ? '' Kaden mused late the next day.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I think he was an Auror, '' John said, `` I mean, he obviously hates the dark arts. ``

`` No, '' Albus shook his head, `` My dad would have mentioned that. ``

`` Maybe he was a foreign Auror, '' John suggested.

`` But he sounds British, '' lustrelessness pointed out.

`` So do you, for the nearly region, but you 're from Australia, '' John countered.

`` Really ? I always thought I sounded Australian. ``

`` You do a bit. But your parents voice More Australian than you do. Same with Amy, '' Albus told him.

`` Oh, '' Matt shrugged, `` So I guess he could be foreign. ``

`` Why did he come teach here, then ? '' Albus asked.

No one had an solution to that. Albus was really curious to what the answer was, but it 's not like he could actually ask the professor. In fact, the idea of being only with Balladanis variety of scared him. He was really glad he did n't ingest to see the prof outside of class.

The first Inter-School Dueling Tournament was scheduled to consider stead the next day. The entire school was buzzing about it. It was the first big competition between the three schools. Albus did n't make love a hale lot of people who were on the Hogwarts Dueling Team. Just his cousin, Fred. Despite this, he was still excited. Albus absolutely loved dueling and wished he was old enough to be on the schooltime team.

The tournament was taking place in the Great anteroom, since the dueling chamber was much too small to accommodate the integral schooling. Albus walked with his friends into the way and saw that all the tables had disappeared. They were replaced with conjure tie-up, sort of like the Quidditch sales pitch. Albus found nates towards the front line and waited impatiently for the tournament to begin.

The dueling orbit was a conjure up platform in front of the sales booth. On the other side of it was a smaller set of stands, in which all the instructor were filing into. The mysterious wizard who had been seen talking to Killigan, but never introduced, was sitting next to the Aussie headmaster, but neither of them were talking. Both wore superposable smell of determination mingled with fascination. A beldame Albus did n't recognize was seated future to Roberts and the two of them were talking. Albus assumed she was from New York. The Auror who had been assigned to patrol Hogwarts that week was talking with Albus 's Uncle Percy, who had came to symbolize the Ministry. Neither Albus 's dad nor his Uncle Ron were there, so Albus assumed they were occupy with work.

Once all the students, instructor, and versatile other spectators were seated, prof Kendrick stood up and everyone quieted down.

`` Welcome, educatee, stave, and visitant to the first-class honours degree Dueling Tournament between Hogwarts, the Australian School of Sorcery, and the Adirondack Academy of conjuration. All three schools will duel this good afternoon. Each school 's team has five scholarly person and each bookman will participate in two duels. Whichever student wins the duel gets a point for their school. The schoolhouse with the most points will win. But keep in head that this is just the first of many tournaments that will take seat during this class. Now, here are the team. '' Kendrick gestured to a door on the side of the room.

The doorway opened and professor Longbottom led the Hogwarts team into the room. The other two schools'teams followed and Albus did n't spot either of their professors. He had n't really thought about the early teams'sea captain before. He kind of figured they had them, but had n't seen them before. He guessed they just came to Hogwarts for practices. They must have set up some kind of special floo joining with the school.

The tournament commenced in much the Same way the Jnr Dueling golf club had, except only one duel took position at a clip. The magical spell used were much more shape up, too. The spell that Slytherin had used on Matt during the previous yr paled in equivalence to the one being used by the older students. Albus was absolutely fascinated. He paid rapt attention and wished that he could learn such make headway spells.

The tournament took nearly two hours, but Albus was n't bored at all. In fact, he was kind of disappointed when the death duel was over.

professor Kendrick tallied the points and then rose once again. `` Thank you everyone. Each and every scholar performed well today. However, this is a tournament and I must hold a winner. And that winner is the Adirondack honorary society of Magic. congratulation to them ! ``

There was a low measure of loud hand clapping from the New Yorkers who were in the consultation, as well as some polite hand clapping from everyone else. Albus sighed and clapped politely along with nearly of his fellow students.

`` Well, it 's only the outset tournament, '' Matt said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Plus there 's Quidditch. ``

`` And we 've got a brainy Quidditch team ! '' John grinned as he stood up, `` Now we 've just got to hope that one of those other Chasers breaking something so Albus can roleplay adjacent week. ``

`` John ! '' rosiness scolded.

`` I 'm only kidding, '' John shrugged, `` Sort of. ``

`` We could just give one of them the orange end of a puking pastil, '' Kaden suggested, `` And not feed them the purplish half. ``

`` Would n't work, '' lavatory sighed, `` Madam Pomfrey recognizes those things now. ``

`` I know I probably wo n't get to play, '' Albus said as they left the elbow room, `` You do n't require to land yourselves in hold to get me a place on the team. ``

`` We know, '' Kaden said, `` We 're just joking. ``

Albus figured they were, but when it came to those two, one just never knew.

******

Albus stowed his Calluna vulgaris in his dormitory late Tuesday evening following a particularly tiring Quidditch practice. woodwind 's focus during this finical practice session had been destination scoring, so Albus had worked hard the full two 60 minutes. At least the focus had n't been on dodging Bludgers. He yawned, grabbed his bag and headed out of the common way. He walked slowly to the vulture 's Den, thinking he could stuff a bit of prep in before bed.

`` Albus ! '' somebody shouted as Albus reached the causa of armor in nominal head of the room.

Albus turned around and saw Rose, red hair flying behind her, running down the corridor towards him. `` pink wine ? ``

`` Albus ! '' Rose panted, `` I saw you leave the common way. ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus shrugged. He usually did his homework in the Marauder 's Den since it was quieter and easier to concentrate.

`` I wanted to verbalize to you, '' Rose said.

`` Ok, '' Albus said as he located the paw prints on the opposite bulwark, `` We can talk in here. ``

`` Actually, '' rosebush said, `` I kind of wanted to talk to you alone. Are Matt, John, and Kaden in there ? ``

`` Probably, '' Albus replied. What did rose wine want to talk about that she did n't desire their other booster to try ? `` I did n't see them in the uncouth room. ``

`` fountainhead, I 'd rather mouth to you alone, first of all, '' Rose shifted nervously from understructure to foot.

Albus looked at her strangely. Rose rarely ever looked neural, especially when she was talking to Albus. What could she possibly have to assure him ?

`` Er, all right, '' Albus said slowly, `` I guess we could find out an discharge classroom or something .... ''

`` Good, '' Rose nodded and took off down the corridor. Albus ran after her and she found an abandon classroom. Albus followed her into it and shut the door behind him. `` What is it ? ``

rosiness paced around the elbow room for a bit, wringing her hands together, before letting out a trashy sigh and leaning up against one of the desks. `` It 's about Linda. ``

Albus blinked. Linda ? He barely knew her. What could Rose possibly have to say about Linda ? `` Linda ? ``

`` Yes, Linda, '' rose sighed, `` You know Amanda and I are sort of becoming friends with her. Well, we are admirer with her now. She talks to us. I think she misses Australia. Anyway, I was form of thinking it would be good if she started to make friends here. You know, like you. And maybe Matt, John, and Kaden. ``

Albus still had no mind why rose wine felt the indigence to talk to him alone about this. She wanted Albus to befriend Linda. How was he going to do that if Linda did n't say a tidings around him ? Not to mention the fact that matte did n't seem to like her.

`` Er, why exactly did n't you need lusterlessness, John, and Kaden to hear this ? '' Albus asked, `` You ca n't really expect them to become ally with Linda unless you tell them you want them to. ``

`` I know that, '' rose groaned, `` But the four of you are always holing up in the predator 's Den, so I hardly see any of you anymore. What I wanted to fuck was whether Linda could total into the Marauder 's Den with us. ``

Albus stared at his cousin. So that was what she wanted to talk about. `` You want Linda to get into the vulture 's Den ? ``

`` Yes, '' rose wine nodded, `` She 's in the common way with Amanda. Can she ? I 'll go get them right now if you say yes. ``

`` delay, hold, '' Albus shook his forefront, `` It 's not up to me. ``

`` Yes it is ! '' Rose replied, `` You found that map. It 's yours, so the room is yours. ``

`` No it 's not, '' Albus said, `` It 's matt, can, and Kaden 's, too. All four of us had to work to get that map to show up and to find the room. If it were n't for them, it would still be a blank piece of lambskin. ``

`` But- ''

`` No, Rose, '' Albus said irritably, `` I ca n't just let you bring random people into the way without asking everyone. ``

Albus and his friends had n't really thought much about whether they 'd let early people into the room, but Albus knew he could n't do it without talking to them. Letting Rose and Amanda in had been a given, since they helped with it, but Linda certainly had n't helped.

`` I have to mouth to matte, St. John the Apostle, and Kaden, '' Albus told her, `` I can sing to them now, if you want. ``

`` All right field, '' rose sighed and stood up.

Neither of the cousins said a word to each other as they walked back to the marauder 's Den. Albus was still rather bewildered by this unanimous affair. First, he had never really talked to his protagonist about letting other people into the Marauder 's Den. He always assumed it would be their mysterious. He was n't entirely certainly he wanted anyone else in it, no thing what his protagonist thought. sec, it was rather out of character for Rose to be this spontaneous and demanding. Whether this was due to the increased work loading, the sudden competition in class brought on by Linda, or something else entirely, Albus did n't know.

Albus took a deep breath as he opened the door to the way and glanced at rosiness. She was looking more nervous than before. Albus walked into the room and paused. John and Kaden were lounging on the flooring, playing a rather ruffian game of chess ( the two of them could become any card game into something strong-arm ), while their neglected homework sat haphazardly on the mesa. Matt was paying vague attention to the game while stretched out on the couch. It did n't surprise Albus that he was n't doing much, since the broad moon was the side by side dark. can and Kaden looked up when they heard the door open.

`` Albus ! '' Kaden shouted, `` How was practice ? ``

`` Rose ! '' trick grinned, `` I was beginning to conceive you 'd forgotten about this place. I do n't call up I 've seen you here in over a month. ``

`` Hey, John, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` Practice was dependable. What have you lot been up to ? ``

`` lacing Kaden at cheat, '' John explained.

`` Hey, I beat you once ! '' Kaden countered.

`` Only once, '' John repeated, `` I 've won four game. ``

`` I 'm surprised neither of you have detention tonight, '' Albus smirked.

`` They almost did, '' Matt announced, `` professor Longbottom caught them sneaking into the missy 's toilet- ''

`` What were you doing in there ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` We were going to put dung turkey in there, '' Kaden explained.

`` Anyway, '' Matt continued, `` Longbottom took pity on them since they 're already doing so many detentions and only took away decimal point. ``

`` Professor Longbottom is with child, '' John grinned.

`` I would n't carry him to let you off again, '' Matt pointed out.

`` Want to diddle chess, Rose ? '' John asked, `` I could use with some real contention. ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden crossed his arms across his chest, `` I 'm existent competition. ``

Albus glanced at blush wine. `` Er, rose has something she wanted to ask us, '' Albus said quietly.

Rose glared at Albus. Clearly she wanted him to bring up the topic. Albus gave her a quick shake of his head. There was no way he was going to ask. She was the one who wanted Linda there.

`` well, what is it ? '' John asked, `` If it 's about homework, I 'll have got you know that I 've already finished virtually of it. ``

`` It 's not about preparation, '' Rose sighed and sat down on the end of the lounge that Matt was n't occupying.

Albus settled himself into an armchair opposite the couch and waited for his cousin to continue.

rosebush took a thick breath. `` You lot know Amanda and I have sorting of become champion with Linda, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' John said and Kaden nodded.

`` well, since then Amanda and I have been spending more prison term in the coarse room with her. But you lot still hang out here all the time .... '' her voice trailed off.

`` wellspring, yeah, because this room is so a lot beneficial than the common room, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` I know, '' rose wine sighed, `` And I do miss being with all of you, but at the same time, Linda 's my friend now, too. ``

`` So expend clip with all of us, '' lavatory said, `` I 'm indisputable Linda would be very well by herself for a few hours a day so you can be here with us. ``

Rose groaned. `` That was n't what I had in psyche. What I want is for all of us to spend meter together. As in you lot can turn friends with Linda, too. She needs more friends. ``

`` She does n't spill the beans, '' Kaden said.

`` She does when she gets to have it off you, '' pink wine explained.

`` So what you 're saying, '' John began, `` Is that you want us to stop hanging out in this glorious room and go back to the wearisome rough-cut way ? ``

`` No, of course not, '' rose wine replied, `` I want all of us to hang out here. Linda, too. ``

The room was completely silent. Albus watched his friends'response with great pastime. Both John and Kaden gaped at pink wine and then turned to look at Albus. They then turned their heads back to rose, but did n't say anything. flatness suddenly sat up, oculus wide open, and stared at Rose with an incredulous face on his face.

nobody said a intelligence for what must have been nearly five minutes. Albus kept looking from pink wine to his Quaker and back. Rose was looking nervously at everybody in turn and then sending pleading glances at Albus. Albus was about to open up his mouth, when Matt finally broke the stony silence.

`` No, '' he said. It was hardly more than a whispering, but was very forceful.

`` We have n't let anyone else in, '' whoremaster pointed out, `` Why should Linda be the outset ? ``

Kaden turned to Albus. `` What do you think, Albus ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` Why not ? '' Rose demanded, `` She 's mine and Amanda 's friend. ``

`` But she 's not our supporter, '' John said.

`` But she could be ! '' rose wine insisted.

`` Then we 'll turn Quaker with her before we let her in the room ! '' privy replied, `` It 's still our secret. We have n't even severalise slip about it yet. ``

Albus turned and looked at John. He had n't even thought about that. toilet had a point. They had n't told teddy about the elbow room yet. Or his dad. Should n't they see it before former people did ?

`` If anyone has the right to have a go at it about this room, it 's Teddy and my dad, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Yes, but they are n't here, '' Rose pointed out, `` Come on, why wo n't you let her in ? ``

`` We do n't know her, '' John said.

`` She 's got no connections to it, '' Albus said.

`` I like keeping it a closed book, '' Kaden said.

`` You could bed her ! '' rosebush shouted, `` Then she would have connections to it. And it would still be a secret. ``

`` tone, rosiness, '' matt said loudly, `` We 're not going to let her in ! You ca n't convince us otherwise ! ``

Albus, John the Evangelist, and Kaden turned to look at each other. Albus had never heard mat raise his vocalisation like that, and certainly not with Rose.

`` And what 's your ground why she ca n't ? '' Rose asked icily.

lustrelessness glared at her. `` They 're the Saame as Albus, can, and Kaden 's ! ``

`` You just do n't wish her ! '' Rose shouted.

`` So what if I do n't ? '' mat asked hotly.

`` You do n't even make out her ! You have n't said one word to her the whole time she 's been here ! ``

`` Neither has she ! '' Matt yelled.

`` You lot are so stubborn ! '' Rose huffed, `` I just do n't get why you wo n't let her- ''

`` Do you really want to know why ? '' matte raised his representative even louder, `` I honestly would n't think I 'd have to tell you ! You 're impudent ! This is the one plaza in the castle that nobody else knows about ! It 's the sole place I can go and get some peace and subdued and not have to worry about anyone else barging in ! The only the great unwashed who know about it already acknowledge what I am, so I can actually relax ! If you let Linda in here, it wo n't be like that anymore ! I like the repose of this lieu. And it was placidity before you came in here demanding that we let a witch we hardly know into it ! ``

lustrelessness leaned back against the arm of the lounge and squeezed his centre shut as he rubbed his temple.

Albus stared in daze at King John and Kaden. Albus had never seen Matt vociferation at someone like that. Sure, he got a bit short with people around the fully moonshine, but had never had a full-blown row like this.

`` well, maybe if you become friends with Linda, you 'll tell her what you are, '' Rose said. She looked quite taken aback that lusterlessness had shouted at her like that.

`` Are you bloody insane ? ! '' matte yelled, causing him to wince even more. Albus had a feeling he was giving himself a headache.

`` You told us, '' blush wine said.

`` That 's unlike, '' Matt shook his head, `` You figured it out on your own. ``

`` What if we had n't ? ``

`` I would n't have told you, '' Matt muttered, `` And Linda 's going back to Australia after this year, so there really would n't be a point. ``

`` You know, since she 's from Australia, she might already know, '' pink wine pointed out, `` You did say that the full country found out shortly before you moved. ``

That was the untimely thing to say. Albus knew she was going to say it just bit before she finished and he tried to shake up his heading to recount her to stop, but she either did n't observance or did n't want to stop.

All the color drained from Matt 's face and with it about of the choler. He merely looked a slight affright now.

`` You think I have n't thought about that ? '' he asked quietly, `` Why do you remember I was n't thrilled about this completely tourney thing ? Why do you recollect I try to avoid anyone from Australia ? I mean, it was five years ago, so I really hope most masses have forgotten about it, but all it would take was one of them to remember and soon the whole shoal would love. ``

`` I doubt Linda would separate anyone, if she did know, '' rosiness said.

`` Yeah, because she does n't talk, '' Kaden laughed.

parting it to Kaden to find witticism in this position, Albus thought. He could n't help but grin at his cousin 's statement himself.

`` Could you at least think about it ? '' rosiness asked.

`` No, '' Matt raised his voice again, `` Do n't you get it ? I do n't want to risk anyone else finding out. I do n't need this to be a repetition of what happened in Australia. I like it here. I do n't want to make a motion again. So I 'm not going to commute my mind. I 'm going to bed. ``

lustrelessness got up off the couch and walked slowly over to his bed and rammed the curtains shut behind him.

Albus exchanged coup d'oeil with John and Kaden, completely at a loss as to what to say. Rose got up off the lounge a minute later and left the room without another word. Albus, John Lackland, and Kaden quietly began to work out on their preparation, but the residue of the evening was very subdued. Albus stared at his Herbology playscript, but could n't possibly contract on it after the row his cousin and safe friend had just had.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !

NaNoWriMo is now over and I managed to win, although not nearly as quickly as I did last class. Big congratulations to Dancer of Starlight for winning as well, during her first twelvemonth of the even NaNo programme ! Now it 's back to fan fic for the time being.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus 's group of champion had never been torn apart by a row before. From the moment they met on the power train ride over two years ago, the five of them had been close. During their first gear year, only one time had any of them had a row. It had only lasted ten minutes. Albus remembered it like it was just yesterday. The night he and John had fought about whether to separate Matt they knew he was a werewolf. It had been a very brief row, ending when matt walked in.

Then, just a year ago, Kaden had flew into their group in a mist of hyperactivity and loudness. Albus did n't really consider the quarrel he had shared with his cousin as course within his radical of protagonist. Kaden had not been Albus 's friend then. They reconciled and then became friends. That was how Albus saw it.

No row had come between them like this one, though. Albus was still in impact about it the next day. If he had had to pick two of his friends to oppose, he would n't have chosen lustrelessness or rose. The two of them seemed least likely to fight.

Rose did deliver a pettishness. There was no denying that. She and Albus had shared quite a few sibling-like squabbles growing up, but they had grown out of it. Rose 's temper remained, though. She was stubborn as well. Albus had a lot of experience with that. Once Rose got an idea into her fountainhead there was no stopping her. It seemed that bringing Linda into their group was one of those things. Albus just could n't fathom why. Sure, she was sassy, but was that really a reason to become friends with someone ?

mat, on the other mitt, did n't seem to take in an angry bone in his consistence. This was definitely ironic considering that he became a raging lycanthrope once a month. In the two years Albus had known him, he had only seen him angry a couple times. Most of these occasions were when he was having whispered conversations with his sister. Albus would never have predicted that he would yell at pink wine like he had.

Albus had no idea what to expect the following day. He doubted this was the sort of thing that would just drift over.

It certainly had not blown over, as Albus discovered at breakfast. His mathematical group of friends was no longsighted sitting together. When Albus, lustrelessness, and whoremaster entered the Great Hall, they noticed that Rose, Amanda, and Linda were sitting at one end of the board, while Kaden was a few foot down from them. Saint John immediately headed to where Kaden was sitting and Albus and Matt followed. Rose did not seem to notice them pass, nor did Amanda or Linda. There was no doubt in Albus 's mind whose English Amanda was on. She was rose wine 's best friend first and foremost. And whatever her reason was, she had also befriended Linda.

Even though the girls were seated far away, cipher said anything during breakfast. privy still looked raging as he stabbed his egg with a bit too much forcefulness. Matt looked more stock than anything, but there was a glint of anger in his eyes. Kaden was at a complete departure for word of honor, which happened very rarely. Even he went the whole meal without uttering a thing. Albus had no urge to commence any conversations either. He was still quite angry with his full cousin. The brass of her to ask if they could let a complete stranger into the vulture 's Den was unfathomable to him.

The muteness continued through history of Magic and Transfiguration. Albus sat in between Gospel According to John and Matt during both classes and glared at the back of blush wine 's mind. She was sitting in between Amanda and Linda at the mesa in front of Albus 's during both classes.

Albus paid zero attention during History of magic trick. He merely recounted the row over and over again, which only caused him to go more angry. Judging by the look on John 's fount, he had been doing the same thing. Matt merely slept the entire course, completely unnoticed by professor Binns.

Albus forced himself to pay attention and assume notes during August 6, although whoremonger did not. lustrelessness remained awake during the class, but had a glassy spirit over his eyes.

It was n't until tutelage of Magical puppet that the uncharacteristically long quiet dissolved. Matt decided to pass over that class and sleep in the Marauder 's Den instead and Albus could n't charge him. It was a particularly blowy and frigidness Autumn day and Albus shivered as he walked down to Hagrid 's hut with trick. Rose and Linda had Arithmancy, so they were n't even there. Amanda was, but she stood with Janie, Marina, and Karina for the duration of the class.

`` Wow, '' John said in a low whisper as they sat on the cold, voiceless priming coat drawing pictures of the puffskeins they were watching.

He did n't feature to say anything else. Albus knew what he was talking about. `` Yeah, '' he muttered.

`` Have you got any idea why rose wine was so insistent about Linda ? '' John asked quietly.

`` She 's unregenerate. She always has been, '' Albus replied, `` Once, when we were eight or so, she wanted to go to this sleepover my cousin-german Gabriella, Georgia, and Heather were having. Her parents said no and she did n't mouth to them for nearly a week. ``

`` Seriously ? '' John gaped and then smirked, `` Siriusly .... ''

Albus rolled his oculus. `` Yeah, she did. ``

`` Do you think she 'd do that this sentence ? Not talk to us for a calendar week ? ``

`` It would n't surprise me if she did n't talk to us until we let Linda into the room, '' Albus sighed.

`` That 's not going to happen, '' John said.

`` No, it 's not, '' Albus agreed, `` Even if by some chance we decided to let her, there 's no way Matt would. And I think Kaden would just tally to whatever I said. ``

`` Well, I ca n't blame lustrelessness for not wanting her in there, '' St. John the Apostle lowered his phonation even more, `` He always sleeps there before the you know what. He 's not going to want her to sleep with about it. ``

`` I ca n't blame him either, '' Albus agreed.

`` You do know what this means, right ? '' John asked.

`` What ? ``

`` We 're going to have to take our own eminence in class now, '' John groaned, `` No way is rose wine going to let us borrow hers anymore. ``

Albus could n't help but giggle a short at that. Albus could always swear on Saint John the Apostle to lighten the mood. Either him or Kaden. Albus and John did n't peach much for the rest of the course of instruction and the brief bit of humour died away quickly.

Albus and lav headed straight for the vulture 's Den after class. They passed Rose on their way there, but she acted like she did n't observe them.

`` You awake ? '' whoremaster shouted as they entered the room.

`` I am now, '' Matt replied groggily from his bed. A few moments later he got up and laid down on the couch.

`` You do n't look so good, '' John said as he tossed his bag unceremoniously onto the floor and jumped onto the former end of the couch.

`` You think ? '' Matt said sarcastically.

`` No, I mean, you look worse than usual, '' John replied.

`` Oh, that 's nice, '' Albus said as he sat down in one of the chairs.

John did consume a point, though. Matt was as blench as he usually was the day before a wide-cut moon, but the dark band under his optic were more label. His eye were also more bloodshot, which gave him the look of a person who had n't slept in days.

`` It 's dependable, '' John shrugged, `` Have n't you been sleeping all day ? ``

lustrelessness sighed and shook his question. `` No. Did n't slumber that very much last night either. I just ca n't. I keep thinking about what happened yesterday .... The sole material sleep I 've gotten was in History of magic. I need a good Binns lecture to put me to sleep now. ``

Albus did n't think he 'd ever learn the phrase 'good Binns lecture'before. `` Wo n't that make tonight risky ? '' Albus asked quietly, `` Not sleeping before it ? ``

`` Yeah, of class it will, '' Matt said quietly, `` But I ca n't have myself nap. ``

`` Ask Madam Pomfrey for a potion, '' John suggested.

`` She 'll ask too many questions, '' Matt said, `` I never have a problem falling asleep before the entire moon. She 'll be shady. I do n't desire to tell her about the row. ``

mat did n't rarify anymore about his want of nap, so Albus and John played a bit of Exploding gingersnap. lusterlessness did n't feel like playing.

`` Albus ? '' lusterlessness asked after a half minute or so.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` blush wine would n't, '' Matt paused, `` You know, tell anyone about me, would she ? Because I 've been thinking, she 's the sort of surreptitious keeper for the magical spell for Kaden, but if she tells someone then who knows what would happen with that, so maybe we should switch to you and- ''

`` No, '' Albus interrupted him, `` She would n't do that. come up might be stubborn and tempestuous with you, but she would never ever tell apart anyone that you 're a werewolf. She knows that it 's your secret to separate. ``

`` But what if she just slips up ? '' Matt asked anxiously.

Albus tried to see this from lustrelessness 's breaker point of view. He also reminded himself that Matt was probably eternal rest deprived and merge that with how disturbed he always got before the good moon, he would n't be seeing things rationally. But the idea of Rose telling soul that Matt was a werewolf just because she was mad at him was hard to believe.

`` She wo n't, '' Albus said adamantly, `` I 've known her longer than you. She wo n't do that. ``

`` All right, '' Matt said warily and leaned back on the couch.

Albus exchanged glances with John Lackland as Matt 's eyes began to glaze over. This was not going to tout over quickly.

******

Albus slept horribly that dark. He tossed and turned and stared at the glowing Mexican valium the good Moon created on the hangings of his bed. Bilius 's soft stertor filled the way. Albus was for certain he would n't fall asleep at all that night. He had too much on his mind.

His in force friend and his cousin were fighting. The first cousin he had grown up with, spent all his pre-Hogwarts twenty-four hour period with. His beneficial Quaker since first off year. Albus felt frightful about it. He could imagine of at to the lowest degree xx matter he 'd rather do that bear his best protagonist and his first cousin fight like this. A month 's Charles Frederick Worth of detention with Filch, for example.

This was different than a little disagreement, too. John and Rose often fought with each other, but Albus kind of cerebration they liked it. Albus himself sort of enjoyed squabbling with James. lustrelessness never fought with any of them, though. And none of them ever really rowed. What if blush wine and Matt never made up ? Albus swallowed operose and stared fixedly at the end of his bed. They had to pretend up, eventually. But what if they did n't ? A nag representative in the back of Albus 's top dog told him it was a theory. He tried to rock it out of his brain as he closed his eyes in a vain attempt to get some sleep.

Albus had been hoping Defense Against the darkness Arts would supply a much needed escape from his thoughts of lustrelessness and Rose never making up. That class usually required every bit of Albus 's brain force and he could n't really guess about anything else during it. Unfortunately, Balladanis decided to open one of his rarefied lecture. Albus 's brain wandered and by the time the category was over, he really could n't remember what Balladanis had lectured about. He had assigned an essay, too, which did n't help matters.

Slughorn, on the other hand, decided to let a practical object lesson even though it was only a I class. Since Matt was in the infirmary wing, Albus worked with John and Janie Creevey, John 's common potions collaborator. He was just gladiolus Slughorn did n't throw him solve with Rose and Amanda. Linda was mysteriously absent, so their group was down to two people.

can sent Albus to go get element while he and Janie set up. He joined the waiting line behind Amanda.

`` Albus, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` Amanda, '' Albus replied, reminding him a lot of the way he and Limbert had worked the previous year. Polite greetings and no talking.

`` Albus ? '' Amanda asked as they neared the cupboard.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` Er, how 's matt ? '' she asked quietly.

Albus shrugged. `` Have n't had the time to visit him today. ``

Amanda nodded. `` Um, what about the row ? How is he about that ? ``

`` He 's still angry with rose, '' Albus muttered.

`` Oh. I was hoping ... '' her voice trailed off.

`` How is Rose ? ``

`` Angry, '' Amanda sighed, `` Oh, Albus, I hate this ! I hate not being able to be with you lot, but I ca n't abandon rose. ``

`` I hate it too, '' Albus said quietly. He was sort of surprise that Amanda still wanted to be around them, after they denied Linda access to the room. After all, she was Linda 's protagonist, too.

`` It 's so stupid, '' she whispered, `` Fighting like this. ``

`` I know, '' Albus said, `` But I do n't think rosiness and Matt think it 's stupe. ``

`` What about King John and Kaden ? What do they conceive ? ``

`` trick monotonous out refuses to let Linda into the room. I do, too, '' he said quickly, `` We 're all in agreement about that. Kaden, too. ``

`` I know. And I get why. I just think its stupid person to let it come between us. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` But pink wine is so stubborn. I know she 's your effective acquaintance, but I 've grown up with her. And she refuses to give in. So this might last-place a while. ``

`` I do n't desire it to, Albus, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` I do n't either, '' Albus sighed.

Albus got his ingredients and went back to John 's cauldron. He could n't tell Saint John the Apostle anything about the conversation, though, since Janie was there. In fact, they only talked about the potion as they worked.

`` Time 's up ! '' Slughorn announced a spell later, `` Bring a sample up to my desk for grading. ``

Albus dropped their potion off to Slughorn on his way out the door with John. He glanced back at Amanda. She was talking with blush wine, but looked up and gave Albus a half-hearted grinning. Albus returned it and left the room, somehow feeling worse than he had when he entered.

Albus and St. John the Apostle hurried to the Great Charles Martin Hall and found Kaden. The three of them ate a straightaway tiffin and then rushed off to the hospital wing before their next classes.

gentlewoman Pomfrey was sitting at her desk when they walked in. She looked up, but remained seated when the three boys walked inside.

`` how-do-you-do, boys, '' she greeted them.

`` Hi Madam Pomfrey, '' Albus replied.

`` Where 's ... '' the nursemaid began to ask, but then shook her psyche and closed her mouth.

Albus shrugged and continued his way towards the only if concern bed in the Montgomery Ward. He pulled the drape outdoors and sat down on the end of Matt 's bed.

Matt was asleep. Sound asleep judgement by the rhythmical way his chest moved up and down under the blankets. His face was scratched and there was a patch around his forehead, but other than that he looked all right field. Granted, nigh of his body was covered by the cover, but Albus hoped he was all right otherwise.

He did n't call forth when Albus sat down. trick gently prodded his blanket arm, but he did n't come along to notice it at all.

`` If he 's departed, I suggest you let him be, '' Madam Pomfrey shouted from her desk, `` In fact, I insist. ``

`` Is he ok ? '' John asked, `` He usually wakes up when we come in. ``

`` He had a rough nighttime, '' the nurse sighed, `` It 's like he did n't get any eternal sleep beforehand, but Hagrid tells me he skipped caution of Magical Creatures, so I 'm certainly he must have slept. But he 's only wake up up once since I brought him back this dayspring. So, for whatever the reason, he must call for to slumber. Perhaps it would be best if you came back after dinner. ``

Albus nodded and got up off the bed. He knew why mat needed the extra sleep. He had n't slept much the former day. Albus did n't say much to John and Kaden as they left. He muttered a silence auf wiedersehen as he left for antediluvian Runes. He was dreading that year. It was one he shared with Rose and Matt, and since Matt was practically unconscious mind in the hospital wing, it would just be him and Rose.

Albus was half tempted to just decamp Ancient runic letter. After all, he had n't ever pass over a course of instruction before, except when he was sick. Even when Washburn was teaching spell, Albus was there for every class. But, he was indisputable the teacher would broadcast an owl to his parents, so he trudged his way to Ancient Runes as slowly as possible without being late.

However, Albus had n't thought about the downside of being the terminal one to show up for class. When he walked into the room, there were only two seats left, at Rose 's table. Linda was mysteriously wanting again.

Albus groaned inwardly and sat down next to his cousin. He stole a nimble glance at her, but she was facing forward, looking determined.

Professor Sturly walked in a here and now later. Albus crossed his fingers for a speech course, something he rarely did. If the socio-economic class was a lecturing, he could easily not talk to surface at all. But if they were working on decoding runic letter, he would hold to work on with a partner as usual. Since both Matt and Linda were n't in class, he 'd suffer to partner with Rose.

Sure enough, Sturly passed out lozenge of runic letter for the socio-economic class to decipher. She placed one in between Albus and rosebush and told them to act upon together since their usual partner were n't there.

`` Albus, '' Rose said icily as she turned to the tablet.

`` Rose, '' Albus muttered.

They worked quietly for a piece, only talking about the runes.

`` That 's not a sun, Albus, '' Rose said as Albus wrote the Good Book 'sun'on his parchment.

`` Then what is it ? '' Albus asked.

`` It 's a moon. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus muttered and changed his result, `` Er, where is Linda ? ``

`` Why do you care ? '' Rose glared at him.

`` I 'm just curious, '' Albus shrugged.

`` She 's sick, if you must bang, '' blush wine said, `` She has n't looked well for the yesteryear few twenty-four hours. ``

`` She was n't in the hospital wing, '' Albus replied.

`` Not everyone goes to the hospital fender for every picayune thing, '' rose wine said shortly.

`` Well, if she 's been sick for a few days- ''

`` That 's her line of work, is n't it ? '' Rose interrupted.

Albus nodded. Rose was right about that. `` Er, are n't you going to ask how flatness is ? ``

`` I guess, '' rose muttered, `` How is he ? ``

`` bad than usual, thanks to your row. ``

`` That was n't only my mistake. He was right there rowing with me, '' rosebush seethed, `` So do n't guilt me into doing anything. ``

`` I 'm not trying to guilt you into anything, '' Albus groaned, `` I just thought that you might actually worry how his- ''

Albus cut himself off. translation. rosebush said Linda had been sick for the past times few days. So had Matt. Linda had been sick around the wax moon. Was it potential that she, Linda, was a werewolf, too ? Albus stared dumbstruck at the tablet he was supposed to be decoding. It was form sort of too practically of a concurrence for them both to get sick at the Lapplander time. But then why would Matt be so fight down to Linda finding out that he was a lycanthrope, if she was one herself ?

`` Albus ? '' Rose asked.

`` Rose- '' he paused. Would arise really tell him if Linda was a wolfman ? Probably not. `` Never intellect. ``

`` Er, ok, '' rosiness shrugged.

The eternal rest of the course of study dragged by. As soon as the bell rang, Albus grabbed his stuff and ran out of the room. He had to receive John and Kaden. They had to find oneself out if Linda really was a werewolf or not.

Albus made it to the predator 's Den in record metre. Neither John or Kaden were there yet. Come to think of it, Kaden had class anyway, so he would n't even be there. But John did n't. Albus tossed his bag down and began pacing around the room.

can entered the room a short piece later. Albus looked up and ran over to him.

`` John ! '' Albus shouted.

`` What ? '' John asked, thoroughly confused.

`` I had to mate with rose wine during Ancient Runes since Matt was n't there. surmisal who else was n't there ? Linda. And she was n't in Potions either, '' Albus said quickly.

`` So ? '' John asked.

`` I asked rose wine about it and she said that Linda 's been ill the retiring few days, '' Albus continued.

`` But she 's been in course of instruction, '' St. John pointed out.

`` I know, that 's part of it ! '' Albus replied, `` Can you imagine of anyone else who goes to year even when he 's ill ? ``

lav paused and then his eyes widened in cushion. `` Matt ! Wait, are you thinking- ''

`` Linda 's a werewolf, '' Albus said.

`` You really think ? '' John asked.

`` wellspring, I obviously do n't eff for sure .... ''

`` What about the last full moon ? Was she sick then ? ''

`` I do n't remember, '' Albus sighed, `` I did n't really pay attention, did you ? ``

`` Nope, '' John the Evangelist said, `` But seriously ? ``

`` I do n't know. I mean, it 's possible, but if she 's a werewolf, why was Matt so afraid of her finding out he 's one ? ``

`` salutary period, '' John sighed.

`` We 've got to find out. ``

`` I know, we can ask lusterlessness ! '' John said, `` Because she would 've been with him in the shrieking Shack, right ? ``

`` Not necessarily, '' Albus shook his pass, `` If Wolfsbane works for her, she could n't have been near him. ``

`` Oh, right field, '' John replied, `` But maybe he 'd know anyway. ``

`` Or maybe not. Maybe he has n't got a clue, but if he did know he would n't be so worried about her finding out about him, '' Albus said.

`` And then he and rose wine could make up. ``

`` Exactly, '' Albus grinned. He wanted nothing more than Rose and Matt to make up. `` Let 's go see if he 's awake. ``


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John practically ran to the hospital annex. They slowed down as they neared it and tried to count as casual as they could as they walked in. gentlewoman Pomfrey was busy with a patient, so she did n't even notice them as they made a beeline for flatness 's bed.

Albus yanked the curtains back and shut them again once John and himself were inside. To his relief, lusterlessness was awake this time. He looked exhausted, but he was awake.

`` Hey, Matt, '' Albus said.

`` Hey, Albus, '' Matt replied, `` How are you ? ``

`` All right, '' Albus said, `` How about you ? ``

`` Tired, '' mat sighed, `` Er, how is Rose ? Is she still ignoring us ? ``

`` Pretty a great deal, '' Albus said quietly.

John nodded and then glanced at Albus. Albus took a deep intimation. He had n't really thought about how he was going to ask flatness about this.

`` Are you two ok ? '' lusterlessness asked tentatively.

Saint John poked Albus. Albus glared at him and then turned back to Matt. `` Well, we sort of wanted to ask you something, '' Albus lowered his voice, `` I 'm for sure you 'll cerebrate its mental .... ''

Matt stared at him curiously. `` Er, all right, what is it ? ``

`` I was talking to Rose in Ancient Runes- ''

`` I thought she was still ignoring us. ``

`` She was. But we were partner, since you were n't there. ``

`` What about Linda ? '' Matt asked.

`` She was n't there either, which is what I wanted to ask you about, '' Albus paused, `` Rose said Linda 's been ill the yesteryear few days. I could n't really aid but notice that she was ill around the Sami time you were and well, John and I were sorting of wondering if maybe, well, she was- ''

`` Like me ? '' Matt whispered. His eyes had widened in seismic disturbance and he was staring incredulously at Albus and John.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus muttered, `` Told you it was mental. ``

`` It is, '' Matt said adamantly.

`` So you know she 's not ? '' John asked, `` You saw her in here or something ? Or did gentlewoman Pomfrey differentiate you ? ``

Matt smiled wryly. `` Of course of study not. Even if she was, I doubt Madam Pomfrey would tell me. You two missed the obvious cue that she 's not like me. ``

Albus turned to John, who shrugged.

`` Linda normally goes to the Australian School of Sorcery, '' Matt stated, `` The school that I was n't allowed to go to. Obviously, if Linda was like me, she could n't go there either. ``

Albus felt like he should own smacked himself in the nous. He turned to John, who looked like he was about to erupt out laughing. How could they have forgotten about that ? It was staring them straight in the aspect and they completely overlooked it. prof Killigan was prejudiced against werewolves. There was no way he would hold Linda if she was one.

`` Oh, right, '' Albus mumbled, `` Should have remembered that. ``

`` It 's actually kind of funny that you thought she was like me, '' Matt smirked.

`` I guess she 's just got a cold or something, '' John shrugged.

`` Yeah, probably, '' Albus said. So much for the approximation of pink wine and lusterlessness making up. Albus would just have to recollect of some other way to get them to be friends again.

`` When do you get to leave ? '' John asked.

`` Not sure, '' matt sighed, `` Probably latterly tomorrow, if I 'm lucky. ``

`` Hogsmeade is on Sabbatum, '' John said.

`` I know. I 'll be out for that, even if I have to mouse out when Madam Pomfrey is sleeping, '' Matt replied.

Albus did n't really think brothel keeper Pomfrey would sleep through somebody trying to sneak out of the Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth, but he hoped lusterlessness would be out in time to go to Hogsmeade. It would be incredibly unfair if he was n't allowed to go.

******

The secretiveness continued into the next day. Linda returned from her mysterious illness and went back to spending all her rid clock time with rose wine and Amanda. Albus spent his time with St. John the Apostle and Kaden in the Marauder 's Den.

Albus hated the silence Thomas More and more every day. It kept him up at night, but he could n't remember of anything he could do about it. The row was mainly between Rose and Matt. Albus could n't lick it, but it was eating away at him like it was his own row. He was very beaming he was n't playing Quidditch in the upcoming match. He would n't have been able to concentrate.

Matt did n't leave the hospital extension until Friday evening. Madam Pomfrey had reluctantly let him result in monastic order to go to Hogsmeade the following day.

Albus woke up not feeling nearly as activated as he probably should own about going to Hogsmeade. He and rose had imagined going to Hogsmeade together since they were piddling Thomas Kyd. They plotted where they would go and what they would do. Both of them had been to Hogsmeade before, but never without one of their parents. The idea of going by themselves had always been exciting.

Now that the day had actually arrived, Albus could n't help but feel a bit disappointed. He would n't be going with rosebush. Not while they were still in the midst of a row. It was either go with mat and John, or trench them and go with the little girl. The latter was n't even a actual pick. He was still mad at Rose and if he decided to make up with her, he 'd possess mat and John tempestuous with him. He just had to face it ; going to Hogsmeade with rose wine was not an option.

Albus, matt, and lavatory joined the waiting line of multitude in the entrance entrance hall later on in the morning. matte and John were more excited than Albus was, but still more subdued than the residual of the third years.

`` We 've got to remember the stuff for the Halloween company, '' trick reminded them.

The Halloween political party was that night. Albus had nearly forgotten about it over the past few days. It was another thing that would have been more fun if they were n't fighting with the girls.

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We 've got to get Kaden 's stuff, too. ``

`` Merlin, he was jealous that we get to go and he does n't, '' John smirked.

`` Ca n't blame him, '' lustrelessness lowered his voice, `` I mean, this is the first fourth dimension we 'll get to try out the Hogsmeade part of the map. ``

Albus grinned. That was one role about the Hogsmeade tripper that Albus was still thoroughly excited about. He had the new map in his cloak pocket, all set to go.

`` We can see who likes to go to the Hog 's Head, '' St. John grinned mischievously.

`` Hey, Amy used to go there, '' matt said.

`` Really ? '' King John asked.

`` Yeah, she liked how empty-bellied it was. ``

`` Seems like an awfully depressing seat, '' John said.

`` Where do you lot desire to go first ? '' Albus asked as they gave their names to Filch.

`` Weasley 's, '' toilet said immediately, `` I 've got lading to buy there. And Kaden gave me a leaning of hooey he wants me to get him, too. ``

`` Why does that not surprise me ? '' Albus smirked.

The male child walked the myopic space into Hogsmeade once Filch checked their names off. It was a chilly autumn day. There was a fragile snap in the air and it was cloudy, but not the kind of cloud that threatened rainwater. They could n't have asked for estimable weather in recent October.

Once they arrived, they hid behind a tree in order to look at the map. Albus glanced around to make for certain nobody was watching and then pulled it out of his cloak. He muttered the incantation and soon, an ink-black replication of Hogsmeade was on the yellowed paper.

`` Whoa, '' matte whispered, `` Look, Weasleys'is so crowd together, you ca n't read any of the recording label. ``

There were pane spilling out of the trick shop and even more inside, piled on top of each other. Albus was n't surprised in the slightest. His uncle 's shop was the most popular in Hogsmeade. There were more low collecting of dit in the residual of the shop class and gin mill. A slight few were in the Hog 's Head.

`` Anyone we know in the Hog 's question ? '' John asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus said after he read the labels.

Albus wiped the map clean and then they set off for Weasleys'ace Wheezes. It took them a while to pinch into the crew, and once there, Albus and matt quickly lost privy to the throngs of students grabbing merchandise.

Both George I and Teddy were behind the tabulator, ringing up leverage as fast as they possibly could.

`` Hi Uncle George ! Teddy ! '' Albus shouted.

`` Hey, Al ! '' George shouted back.

`` Albus ! '' teddy bear exclaimed, `` How 's your initiatory Hogsmeade slip ? ``

`` Great, '' Albus smiled, `` Are you coming to the Halloween political party ? ``

`` Would n't leave out it, '' Teddy grinned, `` Victoire and Amy are going, too. ``

`` That 's respectable, '' Albus said, `` Are you dressing up ? ``

`` 'Course, '' Teddy laughed.

`` What as ? ``

`` Where would the fun in that be ? '' shimmy winked.

John the Evangelist returned a little while later, arms laden with merchandise. He dumped it all on the counter and a few Skiving Snackboxes fell on the ground. Albus picked them up and smirked as he put them on the counter.

`` Stocking up for a year ? '' Albus asked.

`` Nah, this is just until next Hogsmeade trip, '' John said.

`` You 're one of my better customer, toilet, '' George laughed.

`` Do you really require five Snackboxes ? '' matte asked.

`` Definitely. Divination 's awful. And two are for Kaden, '' John replied.

John paid for his purchases and then the group wandered down the road until they reached Gladrags Wizardwear. They slowly walked inside, only to come up that it was filled with giggly girls.

`` I 'd be happy if I never had to set foot in here again, '' John the Divine groaned as he gestured to a display of knock sparkly robes.

`` We just ask to get our costume stuff and get out, '' Albus muttered, equally unhappy about having to chaffer a clothing shop.

The three boys tried to motivate as quietly as possible through the crowd of young woman in order to find their costume hooey. Albus immediately found a black shirt and pants for his skeleton costume. He had bought glow in the disconsolate pigment at Weasleys'and one of his cousins was going to paint bones on the shirt and pants with it.

John had purchased Muggle vampire teeth and Muggle look paint at Weasleys', so all he needed was a black cape, which he found quickly. Matt located a white flat solid, which was all he needed for his ghost costume. Albus got another white sheet, which they would cut up into cartoon strip for Kaden 's mummy costume.

`` Finally ! '' John exclaimed once they left the store, `` That 's my least favorite station in Hogsmeade. ``

`` You should go to gentlewoman Puddifoot 's, then, '' Albus laughed.

John shuddered. `` No way. I will never set animal foot in that hideous position. ``

`` Anyone want to go to the trinity Broomsticks ? '' lustrelessness shivered.

`` Yeah, I could use with a Butterbeer, '' Albus agreed and pulled his cloak tighter. The wind had picked up and Butterbeer would be sound to warm up with.

Albus led his friends up the street and into the crowd pub. It seemed that everyone had the idea of warming up with a Butterbeer. Albus and matt snagged the last discharge table while John went to the bar to get a few Butterbeers.

`` What do you think the party is going to be like ? '' Matt asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` It 's not really common for there to be an actual company. Usually it 's just the feast. I guess they just want us to interact with the foreign student. Kind of like the Yule Ball for the Triwizard Tournament. ``

`` I just ca n't wait to see what masses dress up as, '' john announced as he returned with the Butterbeers.

`` Think the instructor will dress up ? '' Matt asked.

`` I hope so, '' John the Divine grinned, `` Probably depends on the teacher, though. I could see Kendrick dressing up. And Longbottom. Not indisputable about Slughorn. ``

Albus snorted into his Butterbeer. `` Slughorn, dress up ? Now that would be funny. ``

`` I think any of the instructor dressing up would be funny, '' mat laughed.

`` So, how long do you call back it 'll be until Kaden effort sneaking into Hogsmeade ? '' John asked.

`` succeeding head trip, '' Albus said immediately, `` I know he 's plotting it. He asked me if I was taking the map today. I think he wanted it to nobble in. ``

`` Are you going to let him receive it next clock time ? '' Matt asked as he sipped his Butterbeer.

`` Probably, '' Albus nodded.

`` What if he gets caught ? '' Matt asked.

Albus shrugged. `` He 'll get a couple custody. It 's not like he 'll notice another two detentions. ``

`` near stop, '' Matt grinned and turned to John, `` You two spend half your waking time in hold. ``

`` It 's not that bad, once you get used to it. I think Filch is getting a bit fed up with us, though. He 's starting to pawn us off on the prof. ``

`` wellspring, when you spend every early night with him, who can blame him ? '' Albus smirked.

`` Shut it, Albus, '' John laughed, `` Or next time we get caught, we 'll state Filch whatever we were doing was all your idea. ``

`` He 'll never conceive you, '' Albus grinned.

`` Albus, '' a female person voice said from behind him.

Albus turned around and saw rosiness, Butterbeer in hand, with Amanda and Linda on either side of her.

`` Rose, '' Albus muttered.

The mood at the table quickly turned from joking around to tense up silence. Albus nervously glanced from Amanda to Rose and back again. He looked at Matt and Saint John the Apostle, who were both glaring at the girls.

`` All the tabular array are taken, '' Amanda sighed, `` Do you mind if we sit here ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` We were just leaving, '' flatness announced as he stood up, `` Right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Saint John agreed.

Albus nodded and stood up as well. He followed Matt and John the Divine through the crowded pub, looking back at the young lady. Amanda was the entirely one who was watching them leave.

`` Why could n't they have found some other board to sit at ? '' John groaned after they were back outside.

`` I dunno, '' Albus muttered. He had been having fun joking around with Matt and John Lackland, but as soon as the missy showed up, he was reminded once again of the rupture that had formed in their group. `` Anywhere we have n't been yet ? ``

`` Madam Puddifoot 's, '' Matt laughed.

`` Do n't even joke about that, '' trick shuddered, `` But you know, we have n't been to the scream shack. ``

mat groaned. `` You 're kidding, right ? ``

`` Nope, '' John grinned and took off up the street, `` Come on, do n't even say you 're not going. Because you are. ``

flatness sent Albus a withered look and set off at a obtuse pace after John. Albus laughed to himself and followed them.

There were a match the great unwashed leaning on the fencing in front of the Shack. They were all third years. Albus figured the shiver of the scream shanty wore off after the first duet Hogsmeade trips. Albus and mat joined can, who was standing near a couple female child who were looking at the Shack.

`` It 's the most haunt building in Britain ! '' a Ravenclaw named Ann Jacobs told her friend.

`` Really ? '' the girl 's middle widened. Albus vaguely remembered that she was Muggle born.

`` Yeah, it 's haunted by touch ! '' Ann Jacob said excitedly, `` rightfulness, Albus ? ``

`` Er, yup, '' Albus nodded, `` shade. ``

`` I wonder if we could get inside ! '' the other girl said.

`` You ca n't, '' mat said quickly.

`` How do you do it ? '' the little girl asked.

`` My sister tried once, '' matt answered, `` She graduated our first class. The place is completely sealed. ``

`` Oh, '' the girl sighed, `` Would have been cool. ``

`` We should get back, '' mat said, `` We 've got to get our costumes ready. ``

`` Good idea, '' Albus agreed.

The boys bade auf wiedersehen to the two Ravenclaws and headed back to the castle. They were all very quietly on the walk back. Albus sunk back into his thoughts of how he should take gone to Hogsmeade with Rose. He hoped he 'd be able-bodied to go with her the next trip. Albus could n't imagine that he 'd still be mad at her when that came around. At least he hoped he wouldn't.

Kaden was waiting in the predator 's Den for them. He immediately bombarded them with doubt, and the rest of the male child launched into a detail description of their entire trip.

After Kaden 's curiosity was finally satisfied, the boys got to influence on their costumes. Matt, Gospel According to John, and Kaden stayed behind in the vulture 's Den to make Matt 's trace costume and Kaden 's mama costume while Albus set off to recover one of his first cousin to paint his skeleton costume.

Gabriella agreed to make the costume. Not wanting to retrieve the girls and ask Amanda to do it, Albus had been hoping Gabriella would. Gabriella was the most creative of all his cousins and even though all he needed was individual to do a picture magical spell, he figured Gabriella would do the honorable job.

`` What are you dressing up as ? '' Albus asked as Gabriella performed the charm.

`` A Veela, '' Gabriella replied.

`` Creative, '' Albus laughed.

`` My friend actually came up with it. A couple of us are going as Veelas. ``

`` well, you 've already got the hair, so it wo n't take much for you to tog up, '' Albus said.

Gabriella grinned and handed Albus his costume. `` Here you go. I 'll see you at the party. I 've got to go get ready. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus said.

When Albus returned to the vulture 's Den, he was met not by his friend, but by a ghost, mom, and vampire. All three costumes were superb. flatness looked just like a Muggle specter, complete with eye holes and a round lip hollow. Kaden was wrapped in slip of white sheet that were hanging off of him in several berth. john 's costume was the best, in Albus 's opinion. He wore a black cape with a white shirt and black bloomers underneath. He also had a red bow tie on, which Kaden insisted would make him look more vampirish. His face was completely covered in white composition and he was wearing bright red lip rouge that dripped onto his Kuki-Chin. When he grinned, he revealed pearly white lamia fangs.

`` You lot looking at great, '' Albus grinned, `` The Muggle costumes was definitely the way to go. ``

`` Put yours on, '' flatness said.

Albus nodded and went to his section of the room. When he came out, he was wearing his costume. Albus looked at his arms and they were glowing. Gabriella had done an excellent job with the painting appealingness. His breast was covered in a glow in the darkness rib cage.

`` Brilliant, Albus, '' John grinned.

`` We 're going to feature the best costumes in the school, '' Kaden announced, `` Are the missy still dressing up as witch ? ``

`` No theme, '' Albus sighed. He had n't talked to Rose about the costumes in workweek. `` surmisal we 'll find out. ``

Albus had no idea what to ask from the party. The professor had never sponsored a party before while he was at Hogwarts. He walked down to the Great antechamber with flatness, John, and Kaden. They passed quite a few citizenry on the way down and saw all sorts of different costumes.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who read and reviewed this ! You guys are awesome !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


When Albus walked into the Great Charles Francis Hall, he stopped in his tracks. The room had been completely transformed. There were Brobdingnagian jack o'lanterns everywhere, lit up by wax light. Realistic looking spider webs were draped across every control surface. The four theatre table had disappeared and were replaced by spindly round wooden tables. misrepresent spiders were crawling around the level. fraud bats were flying around. Tables of food were set up everywhere. caldron were smoking on top of them, emitting all sorts of dissimilar colored smoke.

The professor were all milling about and talking with each other. Kendrick was dressed up as Merlin or Dumbledore, Albus could n't narrate which. Neville was dressed as Godric Gryffindor, Patil as Rowena Ravenclaw, and even Slughorn was dressed as Salazar Slytherin. Polo was not dressed as Helga Hufflepuff, a fact John was ready to point out. He was probably dressed as some early famous Hufflepuff, but Albus had no idea who it was.

In fact, nearly all the professor were dressed up. The only one who was n't was Balladanis. He was wearing his usual pristine calamitous robe with the intricate silver fastenings. He was wearing a blue tone as he brushed past Albus and his admirer. His eyes narrowed a petty at John but he quickly looked away. Albus thought this was odd, but did n't dwell on it.

As the room gradually filled with Thomas More and more students, Albus noticed that there were an alarming amount of them dressed up as his father. near were starting time class. Albus just kept staring as eleven-year-olds with credit card meth and fake scars on their faces walked past. He thought it was really really odd.

`` We 're surrounded by your dad, '' John laughed as another miniature Harry Potter walked by.

`` This is just weird, '' Albus muttered, shaking his head.

`` It 's kind of funny story, '' King John laughed even harder.

`` Bet you would n't think that if everyone was dressing up as your dad, '' Albus replied.

`` And that kid 's dressed up as your uncle ! '' Kaden announced, pointing to a red-haired boy who could 've easily passed for a Weasley. In fact, he did n't really count like he was dressed up at all, but Albus figured he was his Uncle Ron.

`` Uncle Ron would like that, '' Albus smirked.

`` He would, '' mortal said from behind Albus.

Albus turned around and saw the real Harry Potter with a plate of biscuits in bridge player. `` Hi, Dad ! ``

`` This has got to be the strangest party ever, '' Harry said, `` I 've never seen people dressed up as me before. It 's rather odd. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed. He did n't really like that so many masses were dressed as his dad.

`` Too bad Ron is on obligation tonight, '' Harry sighed, `` He would 've liked to see a kid dressed as him. Where 's pink wine ? ``

`` Er .... ''

Harry gave Albus a curious look. `` Is everything all right ? ``

`` Um, yeah, '' Albus mumbled, `` I guess. ``

`` wellspring, you know I 'm always here if you need to talk, '' Harry replied, `` I like your costumes, by the way. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus grinned, `` Kaden 's musical theme. ``

`` So far I have n't seen any other Muggle costumes, '' Harry pointed out, `` I 've got to go lecture to Kendrick, so I 'll see you soon. ``

Albus nodded. `` See you later. ``

Once Harry left, Albus and his friends wandered over to one of the food for thought tables. They loaded up dental plate with chicken and Irish potato and several former hooey and went to find seats.

`` Look, Albus, '' Matt pointed to the door, `` The girls are dressed as Muggle witches. ``

Albus looked up and saw Rose, Amanda, and Linda strolling into the room dressed as the Muggle version of a hag. All three of them were wearing manifestly black robes, black witch hats, and had painted their faces green.

Albus caught Amanda 's eye and they gave each other decrepit smiles as the girls walked into the elbow room.

`` Guess they could n't come up up with any other ideas, '' John muttered.

`` We did agree on costumes before they stopped speaking to us, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I guess, '' John said.

`` Looks like they 're coming over here, '' Matt groaned.

Albus set down his plate and watched as the lady friend progressed towards them. blush wine 's face was still stony, even in cat valium. Amanda was leading them, so Albus figured she wanted to say hi, not Rose.

`` Hi, Albus, '' Amanda greeted them, `` matte, John, Kaden. Great costumes. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` You, too. ``

Nobody else said anything. Albus stood awkwardly with Amanda and looked around at the group. blush wine was glaring at lusterlessness and vice versa. St. John and Kaden were shifting nervously around. Linda was staring at John, but not in a loathing way. It was more than of a compounding between oddment and repulsion, which Albus thought was form of odd.

`` This is just so pudding head ! '' Amanda finally exclaimed, `` Do you lot want to go on fighting for the rest of the year ? ``

`` Not really, '' Albus muttered.

rosebush sent a wither feel at Amanda and then turned around and left in a huff. Amanda sighed and followed her. Linda shook her head and then ran after Amanda.

`` Well, that was awkward, '' Kaden announced a few seconds later.

`` Is this really what the rest of the year is going to be like ? '' Albus asked, looking pointedly at matte, `` Because I think I 'll go mad if it is. ``

`` Well, rose started it, '' mat muttered.

`` You both started it, '' Albus snapped, `` And you both had better finis it. ``

`` It 's not that bare, Albus, '' Matt sighed.

`` It is n't ? '' Albus asked, `` What am I missing, then ? I was there. You two fought over whether Linda should be in the Room or not ! And we all said no, but Rose is still upset over it ! I just do n't infer it. ``

`` Told you it was n't simple, '' mat said in barely more than a whisper.

`` They 're female child. Nothing is simple with girls, '' John the Divine groaned, `` And do you know why it 's not simple, matte ? ``

Matt shifted uncomfortably and looked away for a few second gear. `` Yeah, I do, '' he whispered.

`` forethought to explain ? '' Albus asked, now thoroughly confused.

`` Not here, '' Matt said, `` cum on, let 's go to the way. ``

Albus followed matt out of the Great manor hall with John and Kaden on either side of him. None of them said a parole until they reached the Marauder 's Den. They went inside and sat down on the furniture. flatness stood up as soon as he sat down and then began pacing around. It reminded Albus of the time he explained about the Hallows back in their world-class year.

`` All right, what 's up with the girls ? '' John asked after Matt paced for a few moments.

Matt stopped pacing and stood in front of them. `` Ok, here it goes. What do you screw about vampires ? ``

`` time lag, what ? '' Albus shook his forefront. What in the epithet of Merlin did vampire take to do with the girls ?

`` What do you know about lamia ? '' Matt repeated.

John laughed. `` They vant to absorb your blood ! '' he exclaimed in a bad Transylvannian speech pattern. He opened his mouth and leaned towards Kaden 's neck.

`` Ew, '' Kaden moved away, `` vampire are afraid of Allium sativum and they ca n't see themselves in mirrors. They ca n't go out during the day and they turn into bats. Oh, and you have to kill them with a wooden bet to the heart. ``

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` I do n't really fuck much besides the unharmed parentage sucking thing. ``

`` You know, '' Matt began, `` You know zippo about lamia, yet you knew enough about lycanthrope to fancy out that I was one. ``

`` That was blush wine, '' Albus reminded him.

`` right hand, anyway, Kaden, those are the lamia as Muggles see them. They 're not like that. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden said.

`` What do vampires have to do with this anyway ? '' Saint John asked, `` I just want to know why rosiness is so stubborn. ``

`` It 's just the way she is, '' Albus muttered.

`` Vampires, '' lusterlessness continued, `` In the wizarding world, are the undead. They 're dead, but they 're still around, obviously. Vampires feed on homo blood, but if they do n't suck in a human being completely dry, the victim becomes a vampire themselves. ``

`` Sort of corresponding werewolves, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, I guess, '' Matt replied, `` But not really. Anyway, they basically die but they do n't. They become immortal and intercept ripening. Someone could be bitten when they 're twenty and still face twenty two hundred class later. Their hearts stop thrashing and they run out of blood. That 's why they turn pasty white. Then, they need to feed on lineage in order to survive. They can either use human or animate being origin. The lamia that like to incorporate into human high society prefer to use animal blood. All they need to outlive is blood. They do n't need food for thought. But they eat it to pretend they 're homo. They do n't ask to sleep either. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden asked, `` That is eldritch. ``

Albus never knew any of that. Now the vampire unit in Defense class was going to be incredibly easy.

`` How often do they wassail blood ? '' Albus asked.

`` Depends on the vampire. Most need to drink it every couple of hebdomad or so. ``

`` What happens if they do n't ? ''

`` They get weak, '' Matt explained, `` vampire are exceptionally firm and fast, but if they have n't had any stemma recently, they feel watery and sick. ``

`` Like you do before the full Moon, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, '' Matt nodded, `` sort of like that. ``

`` Can they go out during the day ? '' toilet asked.

`` There 's a potion that they take so they can go out in the sun. The sun hurts them. Kind of like the moon for werewolves. ``

`` But what 's this got to do with Rose ? '' privy asked impatiently.

`` I 'm getting there, '' Matt said as he began pacing again, `` Anyway, lamia are fast and strong so they can catch their prey. But they are also more beautiful than regular humans. That way people are attracted to them. They 're also really really charismatic. When you meet one, you 're naturally attracted to them. It 's hard to explain, you 're just drawn to them. It does n't even count if they 're a boy or a girl or if you 're a boy or a girl. ``

Albus suddenly remembered the day the foreign student arrived and he first laid eyes on Linda. She was beautiful. Albus had n't been able to guide his eyes off her. But she did n't look particularly charismatic. After hearing Matt 's verbal description of a vampire, Linda did vocalise like one, except for the charismatic part. She hardly said a word.

`` So if a vampire walked through the threshold, I 'd immediately want to to go over to them ? '' trick asked.

`` Pretty much, yeah, '' mat said.

`` How do you know all this ? '' lavatory asked.

`` Remember the program library at my house ? There are burden of vampire books there because of my dad 's job. I 've read a few of them. ``

`` well, you 'll do neat on whatever test Balladanis gives us on vampires when we get to that unit, '' John laughed.

`` delay, '' Kaden looked at Matt curiously, `` Muggles believe that lamia and werewolves hate each early, and did n't you say that 's real ? ``

`` Er, yeah, '' lustrelessness said quietly, `` That 's pretty much it. But mostly the big competition is between werewolves and vampires who live away from genius. There are coterie of werewolves and covens of vampires who fight over soil and material. That does n't happen as much as it did years ago, but it still does occasionally, mostly in other state. ``

`` So, you do n't really hate all vampire ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I 've never really met one, '' Matt shrugged.

`` And what in the epithet of Merlin does this have to do with rose wine rowing with us ? '' John asked exasperatingly.

Albus was getting a bit impatient as well. certainly, he liked hearing about vampires. They were kind of interesting, but he mainly wanted to be intimate what flatness knew about rosiness.

`` Linda is a lamia, '' Matt said simply.

The elbow room was silent for a few minute of arc. Albus stared at Matt. Linda was a vampire ? It was possible. She did fit some of the feature, but it was still hard to apprehend. Albus had never met a lamia before, let alone one that was his age.

`` When did you visualize that out ? '' Albus asked.

`` As soon as she walked past the Gryffindor table, '' Matt answered.

Saint John the Apostle looked at him in awe. `` Wow, that 's telling. You ought to go into the department for the Regulation and control condition of Magical Creatures. ``

`` Now that would be even more ironic than my dad working there, '' Matt laughed, `` But I would have known she was a lamia even if I did n't have a go at it so a lot about them. wolfman and vampires can instantly make out each other. ``

`` How ? '' Albus asked.

`` feel, '' mat said, `` Vampires have a distinctive smell, but regular hotshot ca n't tell. loup-garou can, though. And vampire can smell werewolves. ``

`` And you did n't evidence us ? '' lav asked incredulously.

`` I did n't see the point, until now. ``

`` Did n't see the point ? There 's a vampire at Hogwarts and you did n't call up to tell us ? '' John shook his head, `` There 's always a reason to tell us that kind of stuff and nonsense. ``

Matt shrugged. `` Well, you know now. ``

Albus was still processing the selective information. Linda was a vampire. mat knew Linda was a vampire from the offset. Werewolves can smell out vampire. Vampires can sense werewolves. That meant-

`` waiting, '' Albus began, `` Linda knows you 're a werewolf, does n't she ? ``

Matt sighed. `` Yes, she probably does. ``

`` Then why does it weigh if she gets to go in the marauder 's Den ? '' John asked, `` Not that I want to let her in. ``

`` It 's the precept of the thing ! '' matte replied, `` I just do n't see why Killigan let her go to his school but he would n't let me ! I know it 's stupid to forfend her because of that because it 's not her fault, but I just do n't get it. ``

Albus had n't even thought of that. lusterlessness was right ; it did n't make sense. How was letting a vampire into a school any different from letting a lycanthrope ?

`` But if you had been let in, you would n't sustain moved here, '' St. John pointed out.

`` I know, and I 'm glad we moved, but it 's just not mediocre, '' matt sighed.

`` So, '' Kaden said loudly, `` There 's a lamia at Hogwarts. Who 's blood is she sucking ? ``

"That, is actually a unspoiled interrogation, '' Albus said.

`` I have no melodic theme, '' flatness replied, `` I 'm guessing she 's sucking fauna blood. Probably hunt in the forest. ``

`` What about the whole 'vampires are charismatic'thing ? '' Albus asked. Even if Linda did want to blow homo stemma, he had no idea how she 'd manage to lure a human towards her. She seemed to invalidate as many the great unwashed as possible.

Matt smiled wryly, `` That 's where it gets interesting. The three of you do n't see her as charismatic, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said. King John and Kaden nodded.

`` That 's what I thought. It 's because you 're friends with me. ``

Albus turned to look at John and Kaden. Both of them looked as confused as Albus felt.

`` Wait, what ? '' lavatory asked.

`` Even way back when there were more battalion of loup-garou and covens of vampire running about, it was possible for humans to associate with one or the other. Occasionally, a pack of werewolves would sort of 'adopt'a man and the human would live with the ingroup. I mean, the human would leave for the total synodic month, but live with the pack the relief of the month. But if the human came upon a vampire, the man would be completely undesirable to a vampire because they were affiliated with werewolves. ``

`` And we 're affiliated with you, so Linda would n't want to suck our blood, even if she did suck human pedigree ? '' Albus asked.

`` Exactly, '' matte replied, `` Remember how everyone seemed to clump around Linda when she first came here ? Everyone except us. Even Rose disliked her back then. ``

`` But she does n't now, '' Kaden reminded him.

`` I know. That 's because as Rose started spending More meter with Linda, she spent less sentence with us, with me. She became less affiliated with me, so to address. And then when we had that row, well, now she 's just affiliated with Linda. She 's completely under Linda 's personal appeal. ``

Rose was affiliated with a vampire ? Did this mean there was no Bob Hope of her reconciling with Matt ? Albus groaned inwardly. He really did n't like Linda now. She was putting a vast breach into their group.

`` Is it possible for a soul to be friends with both a werewolf and a vampire ? '' Albus asked quietly.

`` I think so, '' flatness sighed, `` But blush wine wo n't even verbalise to us. ``

`` I think the only way she will is if we agree to let Linda into the marauder 's Den, '' Albus muttered, `` She 's just so stubborn. ``

`` But we do n't need to let her in here, '' whoremonger groaned.

`` No, we do n't, '' mat agreed.

`` Do you remember Rose knows she 's a vampire ? '' Albus asked. Rose was smart, but if she had found out Linda was a lamia, she probably would give told him. She told him Matt was a werewolf, after all. Unless of course she discovered Linda was a vampire after the row.

`` No approximation, '' lustrelessness shrugged, `` Do you hump if she knows anything about vampires ? ``

`` Probably not practically, '' Albus answered.

`` Then she might not. Linda 's obviously trying to conceal that she 's a vampire. I bet she 'll find out when we do the vampire unit in defence force, though. ``

`` Unless we tell her starting time, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Are we going to ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked.

`` Would she even listen ? '' Matt asked.

`` I sort of think we should at to the lowest degree try to order her, '' Albus said, `` And Amanda, too. ``

`` I suppose, '' lustrelessness sighed, `` But they 're always around Linda. ``

`` We 'll just give to wait until she 's at Quidditch practice session. I think the Aussie team practices on Mondays, so I guess we 'll wait until then, '' Albus said.

The room descended into silence for a few minutes. Linda had definitely spiked Albus 's curiosity. He was mostly odd about why Linda had been allowed to go to the Australian School of Sorcery but Matt had n't. What was the difference in letting a vampire attend than a werewolf ? Even if Linda did suck brute line, there was still the electric potential for her to suck human being blood.

`` Bloody hell, '' Kaden let out a low whistle, `` A vampire at Hogwarts. ``

Albus nodded. Kaden pretty much summed up what Albus was thinking. Linda being a vampire had shocked him Thomas More than Matt being a lycanthrope. He was n't surely why, but maybe it was because Teddy 's dad had been a werewolf and he attended Hogwarts, but as far as Albus knew, no vampires had ever been there.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You guys are awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The ambiance at Hogwats the next day reminded Albus a lot of what it was like the day of the Quidditch final. It was the day of the world-class Quidditch equal of the Inter-School challenger. Australia would be playing New York. Albus was excited, but not as excited as he would have been if Hogwarts was playing. He did n't particularly care who won this match. He was peculiar about Linda 's seeking skill, though.

`` Hi, Al, '' someone said from behind Albus as he walked down to the sales pitch with matte, John, and Kaden.

Albus turned around and saw his dad. `` Hi, Dad ! Here to see the match ? Or are you on duty ? ``

`` Just to see the couple, '' Harry grinned, `` I 'm hoping to be able to see them all, especially the ones you and James get to take on in. ``

`` I do n't really get to represent in any of them, '' Albus pointed out.

`` You never know, '' Harry said, `` Well, I 'm sitting with Neville, so I 'll see you after the match. ``

`` Bye, Dad, '' Albus waved as he ran ahead of them.

The boy found decent seats and waited for the match to begin. The weather was particularly nice, especially for a late October day. The sun was out and there was only a slight picnic in the unseasonably tender air.

`` It 's form of odd to not be rooting for Gryffindor, '' Matt said.

Albus agreed. Nobody was segregated into House part like they usually were during Quidditch matches. `` I do n't know who to settle for. ``

`` Me either, '' St. John the Apostle lowered his phonation, `` I mostly just need to see how Linda plays. Never seen a vampire play Quidditch before. ``

`` She must be good. She 's only a second year and she 's on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` But she 's immortal, '' matte reminded them, `` So she 's probably tenner elder than us at to the lowest degree. ``

Albus still found that aspect of vampires very unusual. He sighed to himself and focused on the delivery, where a few people were milling about. Albus could make out Professors Kendrick, Richard J. Roberts, and Killigan, along with a few other people Albus did n't recognize.

`` Welcome, student, stave, and guests to the first Quidditch match of the contest ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crowd a few instant later, `` This will work exactly like regular Quidditch friction match. Ludo Bagman of the Department of Magical Sports will referee this mate. And now, I give you the Quidditch teams of the Adirondack academy of trick and the Aussie School of sorcery ! ``

The New Yorkers were dressed in racy Quidditch gown and the Aussie were dressed in green. Both teams entered the pitch with brooms in their hired hand. Albus watched as each of their captains shook paw. commercial traveler blew a whistle and all 15 of them rose into the air.

`` And they 're off ! '' Todd Kate Smith, who was apparently the commentator for the inter-school matches, shouted, `` Haberino of New York catches the Quaffle and is flying to the Aboriginal Australian goal posts .... ''

It was a very fast pace compeer. The Quaffle passed back and Forth River between players faster than David Roland Smith could announce. Albus was very impressed. He also doubted he could fly as well as them and was sort of sword lily he was n't playing.

Albus knew he should pay the closest attention to the pursuer, but he could n't help but gape at Linda as she flew around the slant. She was noticeably faster than the rest of the players. Her physical body was practically a blur every time she darted in between the rest of the players.

`` Merlin, she 's fast ! '' Albus exclaimed as Linda went from one end of the pitch to the former in simple seconds.

`` I do n't believe I 've ever seen anyone fly that fasting ! '' King John gaped, `` And I 've been to loads of Puddlemere matches ! ``

`` Well, that would explain it, '' Matt smirked.

`` Puddlemere has plenty of fast fliers ! '' John shouted, `` It 's you who 's probably never seen anyone fly fast, what with you being a Cannons fan .... ''

Matt rolled his centre. `` She 's fast because of what she is. ``

Albus nodded. He kind of figured that. It did n't seem bazaar, though. None of the other team had a vampire for a Seeker. James obviously was n't a vampire and Albus doubted the New York Seeker was one either. He was a lot slower than Linda. It seemed like there should be some sort of ruler that would prevent Linda from being on the Australian team. Although, Albus was n't indisputable Kendrick and Oral Roberts knew Linda was a vampire.

`` New York scores ! '' Smith shouted, `` 40-20 New York ! ``

Linda may have been fast, but New York seemed to have better Chasers. Their elan of playing reminded Albus of how he played with his cousin. When Albus played with heather mixture and Fred, it was almost like they shared a brain.

All of a sudden, Linda stroke across the tar, from the Australian end to the bottom of the New House of York destination. Albus stood up and watched the New York quester flew after her, but was time behind. Linda dove for the ground and flew back into the air clutching something in her hand.

`` Is that ? '' Saint John the Apostle began.

`` The sneak ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` It is, '' Albus stared as the two team descended to the ground. It had only been XV minutes since the match started !

`` Linda team spirit of Australia has caught the stoolie ! '' Smith announced, `` Australia wins 170-40 ! ``

`` That was the ready game of Quidditch I 've ever seen, '' John said.

Everyone agreed. Albus had never seen anyone take in the stoolie that fast before. If the other peer were like this one, Australia was going to have the rival in the bag.

`` I 'm guessing this equal wo n't be followed by a political party in the common way ? '' Kaden asked as the boys got up from their seats.

`` Probably not, '' Albus laughed, `` Hogwarts did n't play, so we 've really got nothing to celebrate. ``

`` Linda 's in Gryffindor, though, '' King John pointed out.

`` Yeah, but I 'm betting virtually of the Gryffindors are going to be a bit disturbance at Linda 's seeking skills. I mean, Epistle of James is estimable, but even he 's going to stimulate problems going up against Linda. I think she 'd even apply Teddy a run for his money, '' Albus pointed out.

`` James can beat her, '' Saint John the Apostle said confidently as they began the journey back to schoolhouse, `` He 's a vivid seeker. ``

`` But she 's flying, '' Albus sighed.

`` She 's bounce to slip up eventually, '' Kaden said hopefully.

Albus certainly hoped so. Maybe the Beaters could just constantly pelt her with Bludgers throughout the whole match so she would n't have a probability to find the Snitch.

They continued to walk alongside the forest on their way to the castling. The tomentum on the back of Albus 's neck bristled and he looked quickly over his shoulder. It felt like someone was watching him. He stopped in his cart track and looked into the forest. He saw a non-white figure jumping behind a Tree. someone was in there.

`` Why 'd you block up, Albus ? '' Kaden asked.

`` There 's someone in the forest, '' Albus whispered.

`` Hagrid ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, '' Albus shook his head, `` Too small to be Hagrid. ``

`` We should go find out who it is, '' John announced.

`` Are you mental ? '' Matt said, `` Whoever 's in there could be a murderer or something ! ''

Albus was n't sure about that, but he was for certain that he was odd. He wanted to know who was lurking about the woodland after a Quidditch match.

`` Maybe we should, '' Albus said.

matte sighed. `` Albus, you 're supposed to be the sane one. ``

`` I want to go see who it is, '' Kaden said.

`` It 's the Forbidden Forest ! '' matt groaned, `` Forbidden ! If we get caught, we 'll be in huge bother ! Look at everyone walking around. someone is going to catch us. ``

That was a good detail. But at the same fourth dimension, Albus really wanted to do it who it was. He could n't just remain firm there and not go find out who the cryptical soma was ....

`` Al, '' a spokesperson said from behind him.

Albus jumped and turned around. His dad was standing there, looking at him curiously. `` Oh, hi Dad. ``

`` What are you doing ? '' Harry asked.

`` Er, there 's someone in the timberland, '' Albus replied.

Harry peered into the forest and then turned back to Albus with a grim look on his face. `` Thanks for letting me make love, Al. I 'll check it out. I want all four of you to go back to the castle and go straight to Gryffindor column. ``

`` Who do you think it is ? '' Albus asked. His dad seemed rather worried.

`` I have a few hypothesis, '' Harry replied, `` If it 's anyone important, I 'll let you know. ``

Albus nodded and started to take the air back to the castling with his friends. He glanced back at his dad and saw his Patronus running in the opposition direction. A few people were pointing at it and whispering.

`` Who do you call up it is ? '' Kaden asked.

Albus shrugged. `` Dunno. I mean, the only hoi polloi I can think of are Washburn and Willinson, but they have n't been sighted in months. ``

`` It 's got to be one of them, '' John said, `` Why else would your dad get so worried about it ? ``

`` But he could n't even see who it was, '' lusterlessness pointed out, `` It might turn out to be nil. ``

`` Scary, though, '' Kaden shivered, `` One of them coming back. I mean, I 've never met either of them, but if they 're anything like Quinton .... ''

`` Do n't worry, '' Albus assured him, `` We 'll just go back to the common room and we 'll be fine. ``

The boys hurried back into the castle and up to Gryffindor tug. most of the mass around them were talking about the match, but Albus overheard a few masses talking about his dad 's Patronus.

The Gryffindor common room was packed when they entered it. There was a very large group of hoi polloi in the middle shouting about Quidditch and Albus had no doubt that Linda was in the heart of it, even if she did n't want to be. Albus did n't see Rose or Amanda anywhere and figured they were with Linda. Albus had a fade cerebration that he needed to tell apart them about what he saw, but decided not to since Rose was n't speaking with him. He just did n't feel like telling her anything crucial while she was still giving him the mute treatment. He was starting to feel a bit dejected that it had been going on so long.

Albus and his friends found a table and sat down. They were quickly joined by Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn.

`` Can you believe she caught the sneak that fast ? '' Lily asked.

`` That was incredible, '' Albus agreed, `` But she 's going to make it hard to outwit Australia. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Hugo sighed, `` Everyone is trying to count on out how she 's so fast. Fred thought she had some form of special broom, but she denied it. ``

`` wellspring, she obviously would n't admit to that, '' Ashtyn rolled her eyes.

`` Maybe Rose could ask her, '' Lily suggested.

`` I doubt Rose would do that, '' Albus muttered.

`` Are you still rowing with her ? '' Lily asked.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus said.

`` Why ? Nobody 's told me what your row was even about, '' Lily huffed.

`` It 's not your commercial enterprise, Lily, '' Albus sighed.

`` ejaculate on, '' Lily whined, `` I 'm your sister. ``

`` And I do n't differentiate you everything, '' Albus said, `` So generate it a remainder. ``

`` Can I have everyone 's attention ? '' mortal shouted from the portrait hole.

Albus looked up and saw Neville standing there. Everyone immediately quieted down. Teachers rarely went into the common room. In fact, the only time they did was when something bad happened or when Gryffindor had a spectacular Quidditch win.

`` I do n't need anyone leaving the vulgar way for now, '' Neville said in an unusually rigorous tone.

`` What 's going on ? '' Empire State of the South asked.

`` Someone was spotted near Hogsmeade and in the timberland, '' Neville replied.

`` Who ? '' Fred asked.

`` The Aurors do n't want us to discover that information yet, '' Neville said, `` I 'll be back when we know more. ``

Neville left and the common way erupted into whispers. Albus turned to his booster, who had all turned a few shades lighter after hearing Neville 's announcement.

`` It 's got to be, '' Matt whispered, `` They would n't shut out us in if it was n't someone life-threatening. ``

Albus nodded and swallowed hard. He knew he was perfectly safe in the rough-cut way, but could n't help feeling a bit scared.

`` I bet it 's Washburn ! '' person shouted from across the common room.

`` Who 's Washburn ? '' one of the first years piped up.

`` wickedness good luck charm teacher, '' someone replied.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn said, `` He tried to shoot down my brother ! ``

`` Mine, too ! '' Lily put in.

`` And he tried to kill my sister, '' Hugo added.

Lily, Ashtyn, and Hugo started telling the other first class what had happened to Albus and his friends. Albus groaned and shook his headspring as all four eleven year olds watched him.

`` wish we could go to the room, '' Albus muttered.

`` Let 's go to the dorm, '' King John suggested, `` I 'll bet it 's vacuous. ``

The boys left the common room ( much to the dismay of Lily, Hugo, Ashtyn, and their growing group of on-lookers ) and went up to Albus 's dorm room, which was thankfully empty.

Albus, Matt, and St. John the Apostle all sat on their beds and Kaden sat on the infantry of Albus 's. None of them said a intelligence. Albus supposed that deep down in his judgement he knew Washburn would arrive back, but he tried not to think about it. He figured Washburn was after the Resurrection Oliver Stone. That meant he would n't try and give out into the castle, did n't it ?

No, it did n't. Albus 's gaze fell upon his automobile trunk, where the invisibility Cloak resided. If Washburn still wanted to link the Hallows, he 'd want that cloak. Albus gulped. Washburn was going to try and break away into the palace. Albus did n't know when, but he knew it would pass off at some point.

******

Harry never returned to the rook to tell Albus what had happened. Neville came back to the vulgar room an time of day or so later and told everyone they were liberal to will if they wanted to, but he did n't disclose any details. Albus and his protagonist stayed in the common room, hoping Harry would eventually ascertain Albus, but he never did.

The Great dorm was filled with much more chatter than was normal on Monday break of the day. Albus and his supporter sat down at the Gryffindor table and James immediately passed Albus a copy of the Daily Prophet.

`` They did n't catch him, '' James said as he tossed Albus the paper.

Albus took it and all four boy read the front page clause at the Lapplander time.

Washburn Sighted in Hogsmeade ; Mysterious Man Sighted in Forest

Jameson Washburn, wanted for torturing underage
scholarly person and the illegal use of Legilimency on an
underage student, was sighted by an anonymous witch
in Hogsmeade yesterday afternoon.

The sighting took place a few hours after the first
Quidditch friction match in the tournament between Hogwarts,
the Australian shoal of black magic, and the Adirondack
Academy of Magic. The anonymous enchantress stated that
'a man ran from behind the Hog 's header up towards the
mound. He looked like Washburn .'

Harry thrower, Head of the Auror section, was on the
Hogwarts grounds at the clock time and reported quickly to
the view. No signs of Washburn were found and Potter
is sure he had Disapparated quickly.

Potter had previously been investigating the Forbidden
Forest, after receiving a tip from a student that
soul had been lurking around. Nobody was found.

Hogwarts shoal of Witchcraft and Wizardry went into
lock down after the supposed sighting of Washburn.
Students were not informed about the state of affairs. The
Auror Department has not said whether additional
protection will be given to the schoolhouse. Currently, an
Auror is assigned to the shoal at all metre, after the
snatch of a educatee by Quinton Willinson ( currently
residing in Azkaban ) utmost Spring.

'We do n't want citizenry to worry. We 're not even sure
whether either sighting was actually Washburn or not ,'
Potter told reporters.

Albus set down the newspaper publisher and turned to face at his friends. There was no doubtfulness in his idea that that man in the woods had been Washburn. He had gotten away again. For mortal who seemed incompetent at just about everything, Washburn certainly was honest at escaping.

`` I wonder where he 's hiding, '' John said, `` I mean, he 's probably somewhere around here, you 'd remember ? ``

`` I bet he Apparated someplace far away, '' Albus replied, `` He 's not going to want to stick around and get caught. ``

`` Yeah, that 's true, '' bathroom said, `` But I bet he 'll be back. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` Willinson might even go with him. I wonder where he is. ``

`` I hope he 's far away from here, '' Matt said, `` We 'd better get to division. ``

Albus was happy that they had care of Magical fauna first because he would be able to retain talking about Washburn as they observed firecrabs.

`` You do n't think they 'll cancel the Hogsmeade trips, do you ? '' John Lackland asked once they had walked a safety aloofness away from the Slytherins.

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` They did n't cancel them when Dog Star escaped from Azkaban. ``

`` I hope they wo n't, '' John the Divine said, `` They could just own Aurors patrolling the small town. That 'll continue Washburn away. ``

`` There are already Aurors patrolling the school, '' Matt pointed out, `` So I 'm sure as shooting they 'll be patrolling Hogsmeade now, too. ``

`` Just as long as they do n't bring any dementors here, I 'll be happy, '' Albus shivered. He had never actually seen a dementor, but he knew enough about them to fear them.

`` fountainhead, that did n't exactly work out well when Sirius had escaped, did it ? '' John replied.

`` I know, but still .... '' Albus 's articulation trailed off.

`` Dementors do n't even guard Azkaban anymore, so I do n't see why they would get sent here, '' John said as he stopped his firecrab from escaping.

`` I wonder where they went, '' Albus pondered, `` I 've never seen one. ``

`` Me neither, '' John shook his brain, `` But that 's a estimable point. What did pass to them all ? ``

`` That 's one thing my dad never told me, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I 've never seen one either, '' matte shivered, `` But my dad has. He 's had to take with them at work- ''

`` So he knows where they were sent ? '' John interrupted.

`` No, '' flatness shook his question, `` He dealt with them in Australia. There are a lot of them on the outback. There 's hardly anyone living around there, so every once in a while, they 'll go down on some flyspeck town they come upon. Then some witch or wizard reports it and my dad or someone else from his office would suffer to go clear them out. ``

`` That would be a horrible job, '' John said quietly.

`` He hated it, '' flatness replied, `` He 'd come home all shaky and downcast and Mum would feed him payload of umber. Then they 'd go talking by themselves. He refused to differentiate me and Amy what he hears when he comes across dementors, though. Amy asked loads of times, but he never told. ``

`` My dad wo n't tell me what he hears either, '' Albus said, `` It 's got to be dread. ``

`` Neither of my parents have ever seen dementors, '' lav said, `` I think my parents lead relatively normal life sentence compared to yours. ``

`` No one in my family leads a normal life, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine either, '' Matt agreed.

`` fountainhead, hopefully your dad will catch Washburn and Willinson and then you can induce a somewhat normal life, Albus, '' John said.

`` Maybe, '' Albus shrugged.

`` As for me, I like a little excitement in life, '' trick grinned.

`` You can accept all of mine, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine, too, '' lusterlessness smirked.

`` Nah, '' Gospel According to John shook his oral sex, `` I 'll make my own. ``


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


In all the excitement of the possible sighting of Washburn in Hogsmeade, Albus nearly forgot about talking to Rose that evening. He was sitting in the common room trying to read his defense Against the Dark fine art book when john prodded him.

`` What ? '' Albus looked up at John.

`` Linda just went to Quidditch practice, '' John gestured to the portrait hole, which just closed behind person, `` We can talk to pink wine now. ``

Albus nodded and closed his Holy Writ. He had to intromit that he was a bit aflutter about telling blush wine that Linda was a vampire. He had a feeling she would n't submit it well. They were going to have to pause this to her very nicely.

It was n't that Albus was worried that pink wine would be upset that Linda was a vampire. Albus knew that would n't bother her in the thin. It was the fact that Albus was the one who figured it out that he was worried about. Albus fully expected Rose to abnegate that Linda was a vampire for the fillet of sole reason that she had n't figured it out herself.

`` I guess we 'd better, '' Albus said as he got up. He glanced around the plebeian room and his center rested on the table rose wine and Amanda were sitting at.

Albus walked over to her table with mat, John, and Kaden following. The two girlfriend looked to be working on homework.

`` rose, '' Albus sat down succeeding to her, `` We need to talk to you about something. ``

rosebush put down her quill and looked up. `` Is it about Washburn ? If you 're concern about him coming back, do n't be. He ca n't get into the castle. ``

`` It 's not about him, '' Albus sighed, although he had a feeling Washburn could get into the castle if he wanted.

`` Then what ? '' Rose said shortly.

`` It 's about Linda- ''

`` Then I do n't want to hear it, '' Rose interrupted.

`` pink wine, it 's important, '' Albus insisted, `` Just come talking to us. ``

`` No, '' Rose said a bit louder, `` I know you lot do n't wish her, but I do. And I do n't need you telling me who I can and ca n't be friends with. ``

`` That 's not what we 're going to tell you, '' Albus groaned, `` There 's just something about her you should be intimate. ``

`` Just talk to them, rosiness, '' Amanda said, `` To be honest, I 'm queasy of you ignoring them. ``

rose wine looked a bit taken aback. `` All right field, fine. '' She shoved her account book into her bag a bit laborious than necessary and stood up.

Albus said zero but lead everyone out of the rough-cut room. Nobody said a word until they were in the piranha 's Den. blush wine sat in one of the chairs and folded her munition across her chest.

`` What ? '' she asked, `` What do you possibly have to tell me ? ``

Albus glanced at Matt, who nodded. Albus took a deep breath. `` Linda is a vampire, '' he said quietly.

rose wine 's mouth fell open and then she burst out laughing. `` Are you bloody insane ? How in the name of Merlin did you possibly make out up with that dullard theme ? ``

Albus groaned. `` It 's not a stupe idea. It 's true. And lusterlessness told us. ``

Rose rolled her eyes and glared at Matt. `` Of course of action. You 're the one who hates Linda the most. ``

`` Rose, it 's true ! '' Matt insisted, `` Do you honestly think that I would just randomly call someone was a vampire ? For all the departure between vampire and werewolves, they both get discriminated against. ``

`` Oh, I do n't know. Maybe because you want me to block being ally with her ? '' Rose shouted.

`` Well, that would be stupid of me because I know you would n't discontinue being supporter with her because of that, '' Matt said quietly, `` After all, you 're friends with me. Or at least you used to be. ``

`` I still am, '' rosebush whispered.

Albus smiled to himself. That was promising. Maybe their friendly relationship was n't totally destroyed.

`` But do n't you lot think that if Linda was a lamia, I would have figured it out ? '' Rose asked, `` I mean, I was the only one to figure out that Matt 's a werewolf. ``

`` How a lot do you recognize about lamia, Rose ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, not much, I guess, '' Rose said sheepishly, `` But still, how do you live ? ``

Albus opened his bag and pulled out his Defense ledger. He tossed it at rose wine. `` Read the bit about vampire. ``

rosiness caught the Book and opened it up. She began to read it with Amanda reading over her berm. A few minutes later, Rose set the book down. Her boldness was pale.

`` You 're right, '' she whispered and then turned to lustrelessness, `` Is that why you do n't wish her ? ``

`` Sort of, '' matte shrugged, `` It 's not the fact that she 's a vampire. It 's the fact that she knows I 'm a werewolf. ``

`` Oh, '' Rose nodded, `` And she 's from Australia and Killigan does n't like werewolf. I get it. But, wait, how add up Killigan lets Linda go to shoal but he would n't let you ? ``

`` No theme, '' Matt sighed, `` It 's a enigma. ``

The elbow room descended into an awkward secretiveness and Albus looked at all of his ally. blush wine still looked a short appall and Amanda did as well.

`` So, '' Albus began, `` Are you going to keep ignoring us, Rose ? ``

`` Are you going to let Linda derive in here ? '' rose wine asked.

`` No way, '' Albus, Matt, John, and Kaden said at once.

Rose sighed. `` mulct. I 've missed you lot, but I am still going to spend clock time with Linda. I guess I 'll just split my metre, then. ``

Albus grinned. `` Good. But next Hogsmeade trip-up, you 're coming with us. ``

******

Over the side by side distich of workweek, Rose and Amanda began spending more and Thomas More sentence with Albus and the early boy. Albus was thrilled about it, especially since after a few twenty-four hour period passed, it was like Rose and matt had n't rowed at all. cipher ever brought up the topic of Linda, though. rose wine and Amanda both spent sentence with Linda, usually in the library, but Albus did n't particularly beware. He kind of wish having clip to spend just with Matt, John, and Kaden.

John and Kaden found it increasingly difficult to pull pranks due to the fact that Hogwarts was being patrolled by more Aurors since the Washburn sighting. teacher, prefects, and the head boy and young lady were also patrolling more often than they used to. Albus was secretly well-chosen about this since he had an increasing fear of Washburn breaking into his dormitory room to steal the Invisibility Cloak. john and Kaden, on the other hand, came back to the common room ranting about how they could n't pull off some prank or the former due to an Auror or prefect finding them. matte did n't appear to deliver an opinion on the subject area and Albus suspected he would be well-chosen so long as Killigan stayed away from him.

The next Quidditch match was in the beginning of December, and although that was still a month away, Wood increased pattern to three days a week instead of two. woodwind instrument was especially tough on James since the next peer would be between Hogwarts and Australia. Natalie Wood was determined to mystify Australia and that entail James would suffer to try and fly faster than Linda. Teddy was working with him one on one during all the practices.

The next Jnr dueling tournament was coming up as well and Albus was determined to actually duel during this one. He did n't deal if both his legs were broken, he would still go.

Between his various practices and classes, Albus did n't deliver much prison term for anything else. All his instructor were increasing the work warhead, especially Balladanis. He started packing more and more into each lesson and had begun assigning weekly essays. And since all the moral were practical, Albus had to register the book to do the essays. There were no notes from division to use.

Albus and the ease of the scholar no longer bothered taking their Bible and lambskin out at the source of class. In fact, the majority of Albus 's course of instruction did n't even chafe sitting down. Albus wondered why Balladanis even bothered to put the desks back at the end of class, since he had yet to try of any of the years having an actual lecture in that class.

Due to this, Albus was completely shocked when Balladanis told the course to sit down at the get-go of DoD in the beginning of November. Albus turned to lusterlessness and trick, who looked equally storm. Balladanis, on the early mitt, was acting like this was perfectly normal.

Albus sat down in between Matt and St. John amongst the rustle of the rest of the class.

Balladanis stood in front of his desk and looked out at the bookman. There was a large trunk in figurehead of him which reminded Albus of the offset day of class. But why would Balladanis land a Boggart back to class ? mat told Albus that Balladanis was n't even using Boggarts in his help sessions anymore.

`` Today 's lesson will be part lecture, '' Balladanis announced, `` The reason for this being that the peculiar creature we are studying today is not in your text book. ``

The class erupted in more whispering and Albus distinctly heard rose gasp.

`` Settle down, '' Balladanis said, `` The creature is not in your book because it is extremely rare and most wizards will go their entire lives without ever encountering one. Because of this, it is not normally in a third year curriculum. The animal is usually studied in elevate N.E.W.T. defensive measure Against the Dark Arts only. I however, believe this tool is extremely beneficial to third year defense force and am adding it in, despite the fact that it is not in your book. ``

Albus was on the border of his place now. He was staring directly at the trunk in front of Balladanis, where the wight probably resided. It could n't be that dangerous, could it ? Otherwise, Balladanis would n't deliver brought one. Although, there was n't much that Balladanis could do that would actually surprise Albus. He was a very odd teacher.

`` The creature I am talking about is an anamatek, '' Balladanis said as he began pacing back and forth in front of the body. He stopped in nominal head of pink wine, Amanda, and Linda 's mesa. `` Energy anyone know what an anamatek is ? ``

Albus had never heard of one in his life. pink wine did n't put her mitt up either. The entirely hired hand in the class that went up was Linda's.

`` Yes, Miss Morales, '' Balladanis said.

`` An anamatek is a shape-shifter, but it is different from a boggart. anamateks are forced to transfer into whatever form the wizard controlling them wants, '' Linda explained.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis began pacing again, `` anamateks are very solid and powerful creatures. It takes a very strong and powerful Wiccan or magician to control them. Not many are able to do so. But if a witch or ace can, the anamatek must transform into whatever form the magician wants.

`` This of course of study is very grave if a dark wizard gets hold of one. Can you conceive of if Voldemort had been able to hold in a few anamateks and had them translate into chimaera ? ``

The stallion room was understood. Albus shivered at the persuasion of an army of chimaeras, especially in the hired hand of Voldemort.

`` Luckily for us, anamateks are extremely rare and the majority of magician ca n't operate one, let alone an army of them. The few anamateks that exist in the world reside in warm mood and they prefer to stay hidden amongst Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree or bushes. Anamateks are rarely sighted in Britain and I would guess that there are n't more than four or five in the entire country. They are a bit more commons in warm climate such as the West Saxon United commonwealth, Latin America, South U.S., Africa, and Commonwealth of Australia. However, you could explore all of these countries extensively and never come across one.

`` Anamateks do not like thaumaturge because they do not want to be controlled. Not only can wizards control what the anamatek turns into, they can also gain it do whatever they please. When they are not controlled, they can change state into whatever they like and usually choose a particularly dangerous creature in order to deter wizards from capturing them. They can not, however, turn into humans, for the most part. There are exception to that. Certain powerful witches and wizards have had winner turning them into humans, but they do not act like humans. No anamatek can turn into a human on its own. ``

Balladanis paused and stopped following to his bole. `` I have captured an anamatek. I captured it many geezerhood ago and it has been under my restraint ever since. Having an anamatek at my disposal provides a cracking take opportunity for all of you. Can anyone guess why ? ``

Rose 's hand shot into the air. `` Yes, Miss Weasley, '' Balladanis said.

`` You can consume it flex into whatever we 're studying and we can study to fight it instead of having to fight a material one. That way, you can control what its doing and none of us will get hurt, '' rose answered.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis said, `` Before family, I performed a spell which caused the anamatek to turn into a kappa, which I hope you are all aware that we are currently studying. When I say so, get up and mould a line in front of my desk. You will be performing the spell you learned last class to try and repel the anamatek, which is going to look and act exactly like a kappa. ``

`` Sir ? '' Malfoy raised his hand.

`` Yes, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` Sir, are you going to secern us the spell to bring in an anamatek under a maven 's control ? ``

`` No, Mr. Malfoy, I am not, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` First, it 's not just one spell, it is a set of extremely unmanageable magic spell, beyond N.E.W.T. level. indorsement, there is a lot argument as to whether the spells are shadow magic or not. Third, it would be pointless since none of you would have the capability of performing such conjuring trick and will likely never have the opportunity to perform it. Fourth, the master would not be felicitous if I did so. I will also not sign any notes to acknowledge any of you into the Restricted Section of the depository library to research the spells. ``

Malfoy scowled at this and Albus stifled a laugh. It did n't surprise him in the fragile that Malfoy would want to learn the magic spell. Albus was extremely curious as to how Balladanis managed to perform them, and how he had come across the anamatek in the low gear place. Albus doubted that he would tell that account, though. Balladanis never talked about his yesteryear.

`` Everyone get up ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus hastily stood up and watched as the rest of the class did the Lapp. Rose and Linda shoved their greenback into their base, but cypher else had bothered to take annotation. The thought had n't even crossed Albus 's mind. He was so used to not taking billet in Defense.

Balladanis moved the mesa to the sides of the way and Albus joined the queue forming in front of the tree trunk. He stood on his tip-toes and peered around St. John the Apostle to try and trip up a glimpse of the anamatek when it emerged from the trunk.

Balladanis pointed his baton at the trunk and it shot overt. nix happened for a few seconds and then a slimy, scaly kappa crept up over the top of the trunk and climbed out. It stretched out its webby handwriting and started towards Janie Creevey, who was first in the line.

Janie held up her wand and muttered the turn. The kappa was shot back towards the tree trunk and Balladanis nodded at Janie. She stepped to the position and Karina walked forward as the kappa recovered.

The waiting line moved forward and Albus was able-bodied to get a good look at the anamatek. It looked exactly like a kappa. If Albus did n't know any skillful, he would say that it was a literal kappa.

Balladanis made everyone do the while until they could do it successfully. Rose and Linda got it on their beginning endeavor, but Amanda had a bit of trouble. Albus had a tactile sensation she would be working with the anamatek in her next extra help seance. St. John managed to take in succeeder on his first try and he stepped to the side and Albus stepped forward.

The anamatek crept towards Albus, who held up his scepter. Kappas did n't really affright him in the slightest, yet his heart had begun pounding faster. The anamatek is what scared him a bit. The thing had the potential drop to transfer into something dangerous like a Chimaera at any bit. How much dominance did Balladanis really have over the thing ?

Albus shouted the spell and the anamatek was thrown back against the trunk and landed with a loud crack.

`` Very dependable, Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis smiled ever so slightly, `` A few of the rest of you might like to take away note of the military force Mr. Potter put behind his spell. A determined kappa would throw been able to recover very quickly from most of your go. Mr. potter, on the other hired hand, would have been able to break loose if this had been a real kappa. ``

Matt 's turn was next and Albus stood succeeding to John to look out him. The kappa was only slightly deterred by matte 's first off spell and he had to try about three time to get it to work.

`` Now I know what Balladanis is going to have me do tomorrow dark, '' mat whispered to Albus as they watched Malfoy take on the kappa.

Malfoy sent the kappa slamming into the trunk with almost as much military group as Albus had, earning him a slight smile from Balladanis as well.

`` Where in the name of Merlin did Balladanis get that affair ? '' John exclaimed after they 'd forget the classroom.

`` No thought, '' Albus shrugged, `` But I wish he 'd tell us. ``

`` He wo n't, '' Matt sighed.

`` I know, but I still want to know, '' John said, `` And what did he do for a living before this ? I mean, I do n't imagine teacher normally come upon anamateks. ``

`` Probably not. I do n't cerebrate my dad has ever seen one and he 's an Auror, '' Albus pointed out.

`` They are extremely rare in Britain, '' rose wine ran up next to Albus, `` I bet Balladanis lived in some former state before he started teaching here. Africa or Australia or one of those places where anamateks are more vulgar. ``

`` Yeah, but they 're not exactly green in those places either. My dad has n't seen one either and he worked with magical creatures in Australia for years, '' Matt said.

`` I 'm storm Kendrick lets him feature that thing in the school, '' Amanda said.

`` I doubt Kendrick knows about it, '' Albus replied.

If Kendrick had n't known about the anamatek before, he most likely did by the end of the day. The integral school was buzzing about it. Apparently Balladanis had not only shown it to his third year, but endorsement and fourth through 7th age as well. The usual room was filled with chatter about it after dinner, as well as extremely jealous foremost year. Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn whined about not being able to see it.

`` Are you prepare for Quidditch exercise, Al ? '' Georgia said to Albus as Lily and her booster left.

Albus looked up. Georgia 's facial expression was white and she looked more than a little scared. Albus stared at her curiously.

`` Yeah. But, Peach State, are you ok ? ``

`` I 'll be ticket, '' she assured him, `` Balladanis had that anamatek thing bout into a dementor during class right wing before dinner party. We spent the stallion form trying to cat Patronuses against it. Let me tell you, that anamatek was just like a dementor. '' Georgia closed her eye and shuddered.

`` You should have some coffee, '' Albus told her and pulled a umber toad out of his bag. He tossed it to her.

GA caught it and ripped it out-of-doors. `` Thanks. Let 's go find King James I. ``

Albus said goodbye to his supporter and went to go observe James with Peach State. He felt a bit unsettled that Balladanis had used the anamatek as a dementor. Having it twist into a kappa was one thing, but a dementor ? They were really dangerous. As far as Albus knew, the Patronus charm was n't actually practiced on dementors until Auror training. Part of Albus hoped that Kendrick would ban the anamatek from the school before he started learning the Patronus charm in seventh year.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome citizenry who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Much to Albus 's surprise, the anamatek was still sitting in Balladanis 's schoolroom the next course of instruction. Albus really thought Kendrick would take made him get rid of it. The course of study continued practicing on it and after a few academic term with it, Albus got used to the fact that it was an anamatek. As long as it did n't sour into a dementor or a Chimaera or something else really dangerous, Albus did n't mind.

Practicing on the anamatek was a lot like practicing dueling anyway. That 's how Albus saw it. defence force classes were beginning to be a lot like dueling practice session. Albus was very happy about this, especially since the succeeding dueling tournament was quickly upon him. It took lieu on a Sabbatum in the eye of November, the day before the instant inter-school dueling tournament.

`` Nice to see that you actually showed up today, Potter, '' Malfoy smirked as Albus and Amanda sat down at their squad table.

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Lynley Sherwood Anderson said as she walked preceding Albus, `` Or you wo n't duel in the next tournament. ``

Malfoy scowled and Albus smiled to himself. He sat down and looked to the front of the elbow room. The usual dueling rings were set up and Neville was standing in social movement of one. Balladanis was standing in front of the other one. He must have been chosen to be the other professor in charge of the dueling gild since Albus 's dad left.

The tournament began a short while later and Albus sat back to waitress for his turn. As practically as Albus loved dueling, he could n't stand having to wait while everyone else dueled. He could n't hold back until he was a fifth year and could try out for the regular dueling nightclub. The teams were much smaller for that and Albus would get to duel more during each tournament. If he made the team, that is.

`` Albus potter and Kaden Dursley, '' Balladanis announced.

Albus looked up and stared at him. Kaden ? Albus turned to gawk at Amanda, who shrugged. Albus was going to have to duel Kaden ? Albus had yet to duel any of his cousins.

Albus got up and walked towards the ring. Kaden was already there when he arrived. Albus and Kaden bowed to each other and then raised their wands.

`` Begin, '' Balladanis said.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his wand at Kaden while silently apologizing to him. He really did n't want to duel Kaden.

Kaden 's sceptre flew from his bridge player and Albus caught it. Albus looked up at Balladanis. Balladanis was looking at Albus with his piercing stare and Albus quickly looked away.

`` decimal point to ceramicist, '' Balladanis said without taking his heart off Albus.

Albus handed Kaden back his wand and went back to his squad 's table. Lynley and Amanda congratulated him and he sat back down.

`` I ca n't believe they had you duel Kaden, '' Amanda giggled.

Albus shrugged. It had n't been much of a fight. Albus rarely had trouble dueling anyone during the tournament. The only person who Albus ever had difficulty dueling was Malfoy, and he was on Albus 's team.

Albus was n't really thinking very much about having to duel Kaden. He could n't get the look Balladanis had given him out of his mind. It was sorting of like the expression he 'd received in class, only more intimidate. There was a hint of curiosity mixed in with something Albus could n't trace. It was almost like he was trying to read Albus 's mind, but Albus had had enough experience with that to roll in the hay that Balladanis was n't doing it.

Malfoy was up next and he dueled James. It was a very fast-paced and exciting duel. In the end, Malfoy managed to demilitarize James. Albus had no musical theme how he felt about this. Part of him was happy that his squad got the decimal point, but on the other hand, the thought process of his brother losing to Malfoy was rather unsettling.

St. James the Apostle had a mutinous look on his facial expression as he grabbed his wand out of Malfoy 's outstretched hand. He stormed back to his mesa without a second glance at Malfoy or Balladanis.

Albus looked back to Balladanis and saw him giving Malfoy the Saami odd flavor he had given Albus earlier. Albus had no idea what to make of that. Balldanis had n't looked at anyone else like that.

The next person Albus dueled was a bit more challenging, but Albus still disarmed her within three arcminute. She was a fourth part yr Ravenclaw who had the report of being the smartest of all the fourth years.

Balladanis gave Albus the same strange look as he awarded him the point. Albus quickly gave the girl back her wand and went back to his table.

Albus 's team narrowly won the tournament. Lynley congratulated everyone and said the full team had improved greatly since the hold out tournament. Albus and Amanda got up and joined the throng of citizenry leaving the room. They headed up to the common elbow room, where they had agreed to satisfy their Friend after the tournament.

`` Good job, '' John the Evangelist said as he sat down next to Albus.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` I mean, you beat me middling quickly. ``

`` Albus is the best dueler out of all of us, '' lustrelessness said as he joined them.

`` Balladanis was certainly concern, '' privy said, `` What was up with him looking at you like that ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus said, `` It was really odd. ``

`` He was looking at Malfoy like that, too, '' pink wine said as she and Linda sat down.

`` I 'll bet it 's because you 're both such full duelers, '' Matt replied, `` I hate to admit it, but Malfoy is really good. ``

`` Did you see Epistle of James 's face after Malfoy beat him ? '' lav laughed, `` That was pretty risible. ``

`` I do n't think James River would agree with you, '' Albus smirked.

`` Well, we should probably do some preparation, '' rose said.

Everyone groaned but cypher disagreed. Albus went up to his dormitory and returned with his books. He cracked outdoors his Herbology playscript and started an essay that was due on Tuesday.

`` You 're from Australia, are n't you ? ``

Albus 's promontory snapped up. Linda was staring curiously at mat, whose eyes were darting about. Everyone else was now staring at Linda. Albus did n't think he had ever heard her talk outside of class.

`` Er, why do you think that ? '' matte asked nervously.

`` The early day after Defense, you mentioned that your dad had n't seen an anamatek even though he worked down there, '' Linda explained.

`` Oh, yeah, '' mat muttered, `` I did used to live there. ``

`` Why did you actuate ? '' Linda asked.

`` My dad 's job, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, '' Linda replied, `` Well, if you had n't, we could give birth gone to school together. ``

Matt mumbled something under his breath.

`` What ? '' Linda asked.

`` Nothing, '' lustrelessness said and closed his book, `` I 'm, er, going to the library. ``

Albus closed his own book and got up to stick to lusterlessness, but he had already left. Albus sighed and looked at Rose, who was slowly shaking her forefront. That was exactly why Matt had wanted to stay on away from Linda and Albus could n't blame him.

The residual of the afternoon was spent in secretiveness in the coarse way. Albus managed to cease his Herbology essay just before dinner. He had no idea if Matt actually went to the library, but found him in the Great Hall at dinner. He made no mention of what Linda had said, so Albus did n't add it up. Albus only had adequate time to eat a prompt dinner anyway, because he had Quidditch drill afterwards.

******

`` All right, that 's sufficiency for today, '' Balladanis announced as the bell rang the following Tues, `` Leave your essays on my desk on your way out. ``

Albus stowed his scepter in his robes and rummaged around in his bag for his essay. For some grounds, Balladanis always collected essays at the end of form. Albus had no idea why. All the former teachers collected them at the beginning, presumably to prevent students from frantically scribbling their essay during form the day it was due. That would be impossible in Balladanis 's class, though.

`` ceramicist, Malfoy ! '' Balldanis shouted, `` Please see me before you leave. ``

`` Looks like you 're getting extra service, too, '' John laughed, `` Welcome to the club. ``

`` Somehow I doubt that, '' matt replied, `` Albus was the only one to cause that anamatek to fly halfway across the room today. wellspring, besides Malfoy. ``

Albus shrugged and muttered that he 'd meet them in Herbology. His core started beating a bit faster as he placed his essay on the pile and stood in front of Balladanis 's desk. Why did he want to see him anyway ? Could Balladanis really think he needed spear carrier assistant ?

Malfoy tossed his essay onto the pile and then leaned up on Balladanis 's desk as he watched the quietus of the class leave.

`` stall up, Malfoy, '' Balladanis said as he shut the anamatek 's luggage compartment and walked over to his desk.

Malfoy jumped and quickly stood up straight. Albus stifled a laugh and turned to Balladanis, whose face was expressionless.

Balladanis walked over to the room access, shut it, and returned to his desk. `` I could n't help but detect that both of you won both of your duels last Sabbatum. ``

`` I always win both of my affaire d'honneur, '' Malfoy said pompously.

`` I thought so, '' Balladanis replied, ignoring Malfoy 's less than reverential quality, `` I 'm assuming the same goes for you, Mr. ceramist ? ``

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus nodded.

`` Have either of you ever been defeated in a duel before ? ``

`` I 've disarmed Potter during practice, '' Malfoy smirked.

`` And I 've disarmed you, Malfoy, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

`` Any early times ? '' Balladanis asked.

Albus opened his mouth, but Balladanis interrupted him.

`` During the dueling tournaments, Mr. Potter. I have heard about your altercation with Jameson Washburn, Jarret Willinson, and his son. ``

`` No early multiplication, '' Albus replied.

`` I could have defeated Washburn, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I sincerely doubt that, '' Balladanis said, a lot to Albus 's delight, `` But that is not what I have asked to discuss with you. I have noticed, both in class and during dueling tournaments, that the two of you seem to possess exceptional acquisition when it comes to dueling. You 're dueling skill appears to be much higher than the 3rd or even fourth year level.

`` Therefore, I would like to cultivate both of you privately. There is only so often you can learn in a large group with those whose skill is less than your own. I will be capable to teach you enchantment you would n't normally learn until one-fourth or fifth twelvemonth. Are either of you interested ? ``

`` Of course, '' Malfoy said immediately.

Albus could n't believe it. His phratry and friends always told him he was an excellent duellist, but somehow having Balladanis tell him stand for more. Balladanis was incredibly hard to please, and not only did he think Albus was a heavy dueler, he was offering to teach him more advanced spells. That was incredibly exciting. Albus would be able to learn charm that James had n't learned yet.

`` Yes, I 'd care that, '' Albus grinned, thinking it would be bright to beat Henry James in a duel.

`` I shall see you on Friday at eight, then, '' Balladanis told them, `` After I am done tutoring the less skillful in your class. '' He pulled out two pieces of paper and scribbled onto both of them. `` Give these to your teachers, as you are quite late to socio-economic class by now. Get out of here. ``

Albus took his note and left the room feeling that Friday was an incredibly foresighted metre away. Private dueling lessons. He could n't look. Sure, they 'd be with Malfoy, but Albus was bequeath to put up with him in guild to learn come on spells.

Albus hurried to Herbology, but the class was already well into that day 's deterrent example by the time he arrived. He handed his banknote to Neville and then sat down adjacent to mat, who was shoveling dirt into an hollow pot.

`` What did Balladanis desire ? '' mat asked.

`` You 're never going to believe this, '' Albus said as he pulled on his baseball mitt, `` Balladanis wants to hold Malfoy and me buck private dueling lesson. He wants to teach us advanced spells that we would n't normally learn until twenty-five percent or 5th year. ``

`` You 're kidding, '' Matt said in awe.

`` Nope, '' Albus grinned.

`` But why ? '' Matt asked, `` Did he say why he 's teaching you ? ``

`` Just because he thinks we 're full dueler, I guess. ``

`` Well, you are a proficient dueler, Albus, '' Matt agreed, `` When do you start ? ``

`` Friday at eight. Right after your help session, actually, '' Albus answered.

`` I 'm not going to the supporter session this week, '' Matt lowered his voice, `` And you 'll be having slews more fun than me. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Albus whispered, remembering that the full moon was Friday nighttime, `` I 'll let you have a go at it how it goes, though. ``

After Herbology was over, Albus told St. John, rose, and Amanda about Balladanis 's dueling example and then had to retell it to Kaden when they ate lunch. All of them were excited about it, especially Kaden. Albus suspected he was a bit overjealous, too.

The remainder of the week seemed to grovel by at a flobberworm 's tread. It was n't like Albus did n't have anything to keep him busy, but he just could n't reckon about anything other than the dueling lesson.

`` Albus, you 've got to quit tapping your flight feather, '' Rose said shortly, `` It 's driving me mad. ``

Albus and his friends were in the marauder 's Den. It was Friday evening and dinner had just ended. Albus was trying to concentrate on prep, but it was n't working. Rose and Amanda were both reading. Linda had mysteriously disappeared after her last class and Rose and Amanda had been with Albus and the former boys ever since. Saint John the Apostle and Kaden were discussing a trick that involved charming gobstones to take after the Aurors and prefects around as they patrolled the corridors. Rose had already advised against this, but John and Kaden did n't mind. Matt was laying on the couch with his eyes closed, but he was n't at rest. john and Kaden kept asking him things and he 'd respond with very poor answers.

`` Sorry, '' Albus muttered and dropped his quill.

`` So where 's Linda tonight ? '' john asked.

`` I dunno, '' Rose shrugged, `` She did n't seem that great today, though. ``

`` Then she 's probably sucking some fauna 's blood in the timber, '' lustrelessness announced.

`` Well, there 's a lovely picture, '' Kaden said loudly, `` Linda biting the neck opening of some lost creature and sucking the life-time out of it. think of all the blood. It must get all over her case and cervix. That 's jolly gross. ``

`` Thanks for that image, Kaden, '' lusterlessness replied.

`` It 's effective than her sucking man blood, '' Rose pointed out.

`` That 's true, '' Kaden agreed, `` So, should we fill the gobstones with stink sap before we charm them ? ``

`` Of grade ! '' John grinned.

`` And that 's my cue to leave, '' Matt sat up slowly and rubbed his head, `` I 'll see you lot tomorrow, probably. ``

`` Yeah, we 'll see you in the morning, '' Albus assured him.

`` wealthy person fun, '' Kaden said.

`` Fun, '' Matt muttered on his way out, `` That 's a password I 've never used to describe it. ``

`` We 'd better go, too, '' Amanda said.

`` Yeah, fourth dimension to go sit through an supernumerary defense team object lesson, '' John groaned as he stood up.

`` I thought you did n't beware them, '' Rose said.

`` I do n't. They just get old after a while, '' whoremaster sighed as he and Amanda left.

Albus worked on his prep for the next minute, mainly because there was n't anything else to do. Rose was working on her own prep and did n't seem to want to do anything else. The hour dragged by at an incredibly dull charge per unit, but eventually Albus packed up his rule book, said cheerio to rosiness, and left for Balladanis 's room.

The door was half-way open when Albus arrived. He took a deep breathing time, suddenly overcome by face, and knocked lightly. There was no answer. Albus pushed the door open and walked very slowly inside.

The room was dim. The only light source stemmed from a few torches lit on the walls. It was obviously the Lapplander classroom he had Defense year in, but it looked completely unlike in the evening.

There was n't anyone left in the room from the supernumerary Defense deterrent example earlier. Albus had passed John and Amanda in the corridor. They both wished him good luck.

Albus looked around the way and saw the trunk that contained the anamatek sitting unnaturally still in front of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis himself was also sitting unnaturally still at his desk. He stared directly into Albus 's eyes and Albus, remembering the Occlumency lessons he received two years prior, quickly averted his own middle and began to shut his mind.

`` You know Occlumency, Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis said not as a question, but as a statement.

Albus nodded as Balladanis slowly rose from his president and walked around to the presence of his desk. Albus took a step back and nearly collided with the social movement table. He swallowed nervously and kept his eyes off of Balladanis.

Albus had always been a little wary of Balladanis, but now he had to admit that he was a bit affright. The lone way for Balladanis to know that Albus had been practicing Occlumency was if he had actually been performing Legilimency. Albus had enough experience with instructor performing Legilimency on him and he did n't want to do go through that again. The merely matter Albus was thinking about then was how he could get out the room without Balladanis getting untrusting. He wished he had a regurgitation pastil or something in his pocket.

`` Who taught you ? '' Balladanis asked.

`` My Aunt Hermione, '' Albus muttered. He wondered where Malfoy was. That had to be the first and probably only time he would ever wish well Malfoy to be present.

`` Hermione Weasley, '' Balladanis mused, `` Yes, she is one of the most accomplished Occlumenses of her coevals. ``

Albus 's head snapped towards the threshold as he heard footsteps enter the elbow room. He breathed a sigh of relief and had to stifle a laugh at the fact that he was well-chosen Malfoy was in the room.

`` Mr. Malfoy, you 're belatedly, '' Balladanis said.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Malfoy muttered.

`` Sit down, '' Balladanis pointed to the presence table.

Albus turned around and sat as quickly as he could in one of the chairs. Malfoy took his metre in sauntering over and sat in the chair next to him.

`` Mr. Potter. Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis began to step in strawman of them, `` By now I am sure you are both mindful of my posture on the Dark Arts. If not, I suggest paying a bit more aid in class.

`` You may also be aware of my devotion to helping the pupil who are struggling in my classes. I hold supererogatory supporter Sessions every single day after dinner. However, I also wish to facilitate those who are truly talented to reach their true potential.

`` You two are the most talented duelist in the third year, '' Balladanis paused and looked at each of them in the eye, `` I would argue that you are the most gifted dueler amongst the students below fifth year. I would even bet that you could generate a twosome of the sixth years a run for their Galleons. ``

Albus stared at Balladanis. He did n't recall he was that practiced of a dueler. He knew he could stupefy most of the students in the junior 's Dueling clubhouse, but sixth years ? They were doing N.E.W.T. Defense course. They knew while Albus had never even heard of.

`` I would n't go picking fighting with 6th age, though, '' Balladanis continued, `` They know spells you do not. What I mean is that you have the talent to learn enchantment that the sixth years are learning. The charm I am currently teaching in form are incredibly dim-witted for the two of you. What I hope to do is instruct you spells that are Thomas More at your level. Now, stand up, the both of you. Let 's see what you can do. ``

Albus stood up and pulled out his sceptre. He had no idea what Balladanis wanted him to do. Would they be practicing on the anamatek ?

Balladanis waved his wand and the desks moved to the sides of the classroom. Another wave and the brightness increased. `` I would like you to duel each other. Use any go that you have learned in schooltime. Do not use any magic spell you have picked up elsewhere. Madam Pomfrey would not be happy with me if I sent the two of you to the Hospital extension with missing limbs. Keep going until I say to hold back. ``

Albus could n't conceive it. He was getting to duel Malfoy ! He had been wanting to do that ever since Kendrick had first announced the dueling golf club. The petty exercise affaire d'honneur they did were n't really what he had wanted to do, though.

Albus raised his baton and stared at Malfoy. Malfoy was smirking and pointing his baton at Albus. The two of them bowed and Albus took a whole step forward.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his scepter at Malfoy.

Malfoy easily dodged the while and sent a tickling hex at Albus. Albus threw up a shield and then tried to disarm Malfoy. Malfoy jumped onto a nearby desk and the spell collided with a chair which collapsed.

The duel continued in this matter for quite some sentence. Albus tried as hard as he could to actually hit Malfoy with a trance, but Malfoy kept dodging and blocking them. It was driving Albus mad. He kept thinking of everything Malfoy had done to him in the past times two years and how much he wanted to thrum him in this affaire d'honneur. If he beat Malfoy, he 'd have got something on him for the repose of the year.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted for what must have been the 10th time.

Malfoy dodged it and sent the same magic spell at Albus. Albus jumped and the spell hit Balladanis 's desk.

`` That 's adequate ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus lowered his wand and glared at Malfoy. Albus shoved his sceptre back in his robe and looked around to find a chair that remained intact. He found one and collapsed into it. That duel had been exhausting.

`` Well, that was certainly interesting, '' Balladanis gave a rare smile, `` Not a shekels on either of you but my classroom has been destroyed. It seems that I was not previous in my judgment of your dueling skills.

`` Have either of you thought about what you want to do when you get out of Hogwarts ? ``

Albus stared curiously at Balladanis. That was an sharp modification in conversation. Albus had never thought about life beyond Hogwarts. He was only thirteen. He never thought there was any pauperization to suppose about it yet.

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` Not really. I mean, I always thought being an Auror would be occupy. ``

`` Indeed it would, '' Balladanis said, `` Your Father of the Church certainly is happy with it. How about you, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` No idea, '' Malfoy replied.

`` There are many things you can do with dueling accomplishment such as yours. I would suggest looking into it, '' Balladanis said.

`` But sir, we 're merely third years, '' Malfoy scoffed, `` Is n't it a bit early on ? ``

`` I already knew what I wanted to do at thirteen, '' Balladanis said quietly.

`` And what is that exactly ? '' Malfoy asked.

Balladanis gave Malfoy the strangest expression Albus had ever seen. It was a compounding of gloominess, ire, and pride.

`` I do not wish to discuss that, '' Balladanis said, `` Perhaps you will incur out someday. For now, I think it advantageously we call it a dark. If you wish to hear forward-looking trance, return at this time side by side week and we will set out. ``

`` I 'll be here, sir, '' Malfoy said as he walked out the door.

`` Thanks, Professor, '' Albus said as he followed.

`` Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis said, `` Please severalise Mr. Eckerton that it will not do for him to skip over his extra supporter Roger Huntington Sessions. ``

`` But sir, '' Albus looked at him incredulously, `` You know what tonight is. He could n't possibly sustain gone. ``

`` The moon did n't go up until after the session was over. I do not need self-justification. ``

Albus sighed to himself as he left. Balladanis had been teaching him for over two calendar month and he still surprised Albus all the fourth dimension. Albus had seen a different side of him that Night. He did truly hate the Dark humanistic discipline, that was something Albus did not doubt. But he had also performed Legilimency on him. Albus did n't call up he could ever entrust a instructor that did that. Not after his experience with Washburn.


A/N : To answer a common doubtfulness masses have left in reviews, I came up with the anamatek, but based it off of boggarts in the HP series. Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` What did Balladanis learn you ? '' was the firstly matter flatness asked Albus when he went to see him the following afternoon.

Albus had given every short detail about the evening to his other friend once he returned to the dormitory afterwards and they were impressed. whoremaster 's first response had been that perhaps Albus would be capable to find out out what Balladanis did before he began teaching.

`` He did n't really teach us anything, '' Albus explained to matte, who looked tire but was paying rapt attention. `` I dueled Malfoy. ``

`` Wow, '' Matt looked impressed, `` How was that ? ``

`` Neither of us won, '' Albus sighed, `` Balladanis made us stop because we pretty much destroyed his classroom. ``

`` I wish I had seen it, '' John chimed in, `` Bet the look on Balladanis 's face was priceless. ``

`` He just looked impressed. He was n't angry or anything, '' Albus told them, `` Then he asked us what we wanted to do with our biography. ``

`` Like what variety of job you want to get ? '' flatness raised his supercilium, `` You 're only XIII. ``

`` Yeah, I thought it was strange, '' Albus shrugged, `` But he said I should think about doing something that would put my dueling attainment to use. ``

`` Like an Auror ? '' flatness asked.

`` I do n't intend so. I mentioned that and he kind of made it seem like that would n't put my dueling skills to use. ``

`` I ca n't think of any other job that you 'd duel more than that, '' Matt replied.

`` I have no mind what I want to do with my sprightliness, '' Kaden announced.

`` Me either, '' John said, `` I say we 've got plenty of time to image it out. ``

`` I 'll say, '' ma'am Pomfrey stuck her top dog in between the curtains, `` And you certainly do not accept to figure it out now. It 's prison term for you lot to leave. ``

Albus, can, and Kaden reluctantly left the infirmary annexe, lamenting the fact that Madam Pomfrey had n't let them stay very long. They had no idea why the nurse had shortened confab time so much, considering that Matt had n't seemed defective than usual, but they never understood why Madam Pomfrey did nearly of the matter she did.

******

Albus 's week could be easily summed up in two words. Quidditch and homework. Normally he would only kick about the latter, but Oliver forest was like a Muggle drill serjeant when it came to Quidditch. Since the match was on Saturday, King Oliver was insisting on everyday drill. Albus and the other alternates had to be at every pattern because according to Oliver, 'you never know when somebody will get sick or hex right before a match .'

In fact, Oliver even wanted them to practice on Friday night, the night before the match. Albus was n't too happy about this since he had his lesson with Balladanis at eight. That was the same time Quidditch practice let out, so he had to run to the defending team schoolroom still completely covered in mud from practice.

He ran into the classroom ten minutes late, nub pounding with worry about what Balladanis was going to say.

`` Mr. Potter, you 're latterly, '' Balladanis said as Albus entered the room. He and Malfoy were sitting at the front desk.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Albus said as he joined them, `` Quidditch pattern. ``

`` So I gathered, '' Balladanis eyed Albus 's muddy gown, `` I was just telling Mr. Malfoy about the province that come with learning gain ground dueling turn. ``

Balladanis pulled out his wand and pointed it at Albus. Albus 's robes were clean and dry and he muttered a thank you to the prof. Malfoy was smirking to himself.

`` The most important responsibility is that you can not and I repeat, can not, use the turn I teach you here in the junior dueling tournament. It would break your team an unjust advantage and you could inadvertently injure your opposer. The spells I teach you are not to be used outside this schoolroom, unless I instruct you otherwise.

`` You are not to duel your fellow students in the corridors with these spells. Nor are you to use them against your sib and full cousin, '' his eyes rested on Albus.

`` I also feel the indigence to warn you that these spells are more exhausting than the 1 you have been learning. They use a lot of magic energy and do not be surprised if you feel as though you have just run a marathon, '' he turned to Albus again, `` Or played in a very long Quidditch peer. ``

Balladanis stood up and gestured for the boys to do the same. Once they did, Balladanis moved the desks aside and stood in between where Albus and Malfoy stood.

`` I am going to have you solve on your carapace spell first- ''

`` I already know how to do a shield charm, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I am well cognizant of that, Mr. Malfoy, and I do ask that you not query my teaching panache, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` The shield appealingness you have been using are relatively decrepit and fade away after only a few magic spell are cast against them.

`` With a mediocre bit of drill and genial absorption, one is able to preserve the shield up for long period of meter in order to block up multiple spells. Really skilled dueler can even hold on the buckler up while casting other spells. That is quite useful, as you can imagine. It is also possible to shield a great many citizenry with just one person 's shield charm, which is also very useful. Some cuticle charms can even protect one against witching tool approach, '' Balladanis lowered his voice and averted his eyes at this, which Albus thought was odd.

`` It takes a lot of assiduousness to maintain grasp of a shield charm for so long, which is why the charm can be difficult. I doubt either of you will produce a long full term shield charm tonight, so do n't be disappointed. Wands out, both of you, and we 'll see how long you can entertain the charm, without any enchantment hitting it. ``

Albus held up his scepter and muttered the incantation for the shield charm. He had practiced this appealingness numerous meter before, usually with someone else trying to hex him at the same time. It was quite promiscuous to just concord it there and even form of oil production. He and Malfoy just stared at each other and Albus doubted that either of them were going to fell their carapace. It would be like admitting defeat to the other.

After what must give birth been at least ten mo of holding the shield charm, Albus found he was getting tired. His arm ached from holding his baton up and from throwing so many Quaffles at practice earlier. Malfoy had the advantage since he did n't have Quidditch drill. a good deal to Albus 's disheartenment, he noticed his carapace starting to fizzle. He was n't going to be able to hold it much longer and Malfoy 's still looked strong.

Balladanis looked at his watch. `` Let the cuticle go, '' he instructed, `` Wands down. ``

Relieved, Albus lowered his pall hired hand and then sat down in a electric chair. Balladanis was right when he said advanced shields were exhausting.

`` Very dependable, '' Balladanis said, `` Stand up again. Now I 'll see how many spells each of your buckler can withstand. ``

Albus and Malfoy both put their cuticle up again and Balladanis sent disarming magical spell at both of them. Albus could feel his shield faltering after the first charm and did n't reckon it would last as long as Malfoy's.

Albus 's buckler fizzled out after three appealingness. Malfoy 's dismantled after four. He had the adult smirk on his case afterwards, but did n't say anything. He probably did n't want to gloat in front of Balladanis. Albus knew he 'd hear about it the next fourth dimension they had a class together, though.

If only he had n't had Quidditch exercise ! Then Albus would let beaten Malfoy. Or at least tied with him.

`` That 's enough for tonight, '' Balladanis said as he eyed Albus. Albus had a touch that he looked absolutely exhausted.

`` expression like I 'm the meliorate dueler, '' Malfoy said once they were out of the room.

`` That 's not what it meant, '' Albus muttered, `` We did n't even duel each other. I could shell you in a real affaire d'honneur. ``

`` And I could vanquish both of you, '' a Slytherin Prefect, who was making his troll, said as he walked by, `` So get to your dormitories. ``

Albus had no idea if he could beat the Prefect or not but he did n't want to bind around to suffer house decimal point. Plus, it was a good excuse to stop talking to Malfoy.

******

The fervour that filled the Great Hall the next morning reminded Albus yet again of the previous year 's Quidditch final. Only this was n't a final. It was the Hogwarts versus Australia match, the first compeer Hogwarts was going to trifle in.

The Hogwarts team did not sit together at breakfast or lunch. There was considerable argument at practice session the previous night about this. Oliver Wood, Tyler Pike, and teddy all wanted the squad to sit together in order to squeeze in last minute strategizing, but nobody could fit in on which table to sit at.

In the end, Teddy sat with the Gryffindor participant at the Gryffindor board, President Tyler sat with the Ravenclaw thespian at the Ravenclaw mesa, and Oliver walked from board to table giving out last instant advice. Albus thought this worked out fine since King Oliver did n't seem to be capable to sit still for Thomas More than a minute.

Albus was kind of relieved that nonentity on the Hogwarts squad came down with Spattergroit or lost a finger in potions category because he did n't really want to toy. He loved Quidditch, but so much was at bet. He wanted to merely watch the first match that Hogwarts participated in. Then, if properly before the next match, one of the pursuer came down with a cold and madam Pomfrey forbid them from playing, Albus would gladly take their place.

The hullabaloo only increased as Albus and his ally walked to the pitching. rosiness and Amanda were there, although Linda was n't. Albus thought this was only fitting since Hogwarts was playing against Australia in this match.

"Welcome, everyone !"Sir Alexander Robertus Todd Smith 's voice boomed over the crew,"Hogwarts is playing its showtime match in the Cup and they are up against Australia ! The Hogwarts team is captained by Oliver Wood with help from Ted lupin and Tyler superhighway !

"The squad is comprised of Georgia Weasley as keeper ; Damien Waverly, Anna Reilly, and Ferris Fielding as Chasers ; Andy Kaper and Allie Davis as Beaters ; and James Potter as Seeker.

"The giving excitement in this friction match is whether James ceramicist will be able to drum Aboriginal Australian seeker Linda Morales, who shocked everyone with her speed and lightsomeness in the last match. potter, of trend, is the son and nephew of legendary Gryffindor Seekers Harry potter and Charlie Weasley. He is also being coached by Gryffindor 's former legendary Seeker, Ted lupine, and is on his way towards becoming another legend in the star sign of Gryffindor."

"Not being very modest about James, is he ?"Rose muttered to Albus.

"No, not really,"Albus replied, happy that he was n't in James II 's position.

"The police chief escape from hands,"Smith continues,"And they 're off !"

All fourteen actor, half in emerald leafy vegetable Australian robes and half in blackened Hogwarts unity, rose into the air. Whoever decided on the colors must not have been thinking about profile. If it was a rainy, snowy, or blurred day, you would n't be able to tell the departure between the two colors.

The match was fast-paced like the first one had been. All of the Hogwarts players were superb and as far as Albus could assure, equally matched against Australia.

The teams were tied 15 minutes into the friction match, each with 120 pointedness. The Quaffle exchanged workforce so often that Albus had a hard time keeping up. Rose had already given up and was talking to Amanda about something. Matt, John, and Kaden were all trying to celebrate up with the match.

It happened so fast that if Albus had blinked, he would have missed the whole thing. Linda had been hovering above the Hogwarts goal posts and then she shot down towards the ground, pulling out of her dive with the gilded Snitch in her grasp. St. James the Apostle had been succeeding to her and was a few metres above her when she caught it. Just like that, in a matter of instant, the lucifer was over.

"Linda Morales has captured the stoolie, which means Australia wins 270-120,"metalworker announced LE than enthusiastically.

"She caught it ?"John gaped,"But she was above the destination posts two indorsement ago !"

"No one can fly that fast !"Albus agreed.

"It ca n't be over !"matt exclaimed,"It just started twenty minutes ago !"

Everyone around Albus was talking about how fast Linda flew to the Snitch. Albus and his friends descended onto the slant and Albus quickly lost them in the sea of multitude. He pushed his way through the crowd until he found his team.

"They 've got to be cheating !"Andy Kaper shouted to Teddy,"They 've rigged her broom or something !"

"All the ling were fully checked before the match,"shift reminded him.

"fountainhead, check it again !"Andy exclaimed,"There 's a speed charm on that thing, I guarantee it."

"We 'll suffer it checked again,"Wood assured him.

"I want a rematch,"Georgia muttered,"They 've got to be cheating. Even a Firebolt 2000 ca n't fly that fast."

"We 're only going to get a replay if there is something wrong with that broom,"Wood sighed.

"I want an unofficial flying contest between her and St. James the Apostle,"Damien Waverly said,"There 's no way she 's a better airman than he is."

James was the only one not talking. He appeared to be in daze. The entire team was shouting around him, but he did n't appear to pick up any of it.

"Saint James ?"Albus asked tentatively.

James jumped and looked at Albus without saying a word. Then he trudged off to the changing room. No one else noticed that he left.

No one had noticed Albus show up either, so he joined the crowd of people going back up to the palace. He figured it would be easier to talk to the King James once he returned to the common room.

The park way was ominously silent when Albus walked through the portrait hole. Most multitude were sitting, staring into quad, and not talking to anyone. It was a tantrum more fitting to someone just dying than a lost Quidditch equal. None of the Australians who had been sorted into Gryffindor, including Linda, were there. Albus briefly wondered where they were going to go, now that they 'd probably be chased out of every common room.

Albus 's friends were sitting at their usual table and Albus joined them. Rose and Amanda were whispering to each other, but John and lustrelessness were mute. Kaden was rifling through a stack of cocoa frog cards.

The match had been the definition of anti-climactic. Hogwarts had spent weeks preparing for it, working every day well past when the sun set. preparation had been ignored and studying put off. All so Hogwarts could beat Australia. Then, Linda Morales had caught the snitch twenty dollar bill minutes into the catch. Linda Morales, the only one who had managed to best William James Potter at Quidditch.

"You know,"Kaden set down his lineup,"If St. James and Linda had a kid, he or she would be the best searcher in the world."

Nobody responded. Albus thought it would be more likely to become best friends with a chimaera than James and Linda to get marry and have a kid. Not to mention the fact that vampire could n't bear children. Kaden probably did n't have intercourse that, though.

"I just do n't get it,"lav mumbled,"She must 've cheated."

"You just do n't want to admit that Hogwarts might not cause the best Quidditch musician in the world,"rose wine muttered.

"Let 's go to the vulture 's Den,"mat whispered as he stood up.

Albus did n't know why Matt wanted to go there, but considering how depressingly unruffled the coarse room was, he was n't about to object.

They passed no one except an Auror on their way to the room. Everyone must make been lamenting the Quidditch personnel casualty in their coarse rooms.

"Finally,"Kaden said as he collapsed onto one of the sofa in the room,"Now we can actually spill. The common room is depressing."

"What do you expect ?"John groaned,"We lost our for the first time mach. We 're in lowest place."

"No, we 're not,"Rose said,"New House of York lost to Australia with only 40 point. They 're in last place."

"Energy Department n't matter,"John Lackland shook his forefront,"We still lost."

"No one 's ever going to puzzle Australia,"Albus sighed.

"You 're probably decent,"flatness said darkly,"Remember the last match ? How quickly she caught the Snitch ? I knew she 'd be fast, but I thought maybe she 'd slow down to even affair up a bit. This peer proves that wrong. She 's using the fact that she 's a vampire to her advantage."

"That 's completely unfair !"whoremonger shouted,"Why would Kendrick let her do that ?"

"He obviously does n't know,"Rose sighed.

"So, she is cheating,"Albus said.

"Technically, she 's not,"Matt replied,"She 's just really skilled at Quidditch. Vampires, and loup-garou, have really stabbing eyesight in order to,"he paused,"taking into custody target. She 's better at seeing a stool pigeon than any human."

"Then why do n't you play Seeker against her !"Kaden exclaimed, grinning at the estimate,"That would be More fair."

Matt burst out laughing."You did n't see me at flying lessons in beginning year. I 'm an awe-inspiring handbill. indisputable, I could see the Snitch, but I 'd light off my broom trying to trance it."

"Oh,"Kaden deflated.

"addition she 's super fast,"John pointed out,"And mat 's not. No offense or anything."

"None taken,"Matt said.

"So, what are we going to do about this ?"Albus asked,"If she does n't terminate, Australia 's going to win this competition."

"I think Rose should babble to her,"John suggested.

"Why ?"blush wine asked.

"Because she likes you and you like her,"John said,"Just assure her to fly a small slower."

"Yeah, right,"Rose rolled her eyes,"Believe it or not, she 's about as fanatical about Quidditch as you lot are. No way is she going to correspond to that."

"It 's lawful,"Amanda agreed.

The room descended into silence. The only other thing Albus could cogitate of to do would be to tell Kendrick that Linda was a lamia. That would get her off the Australian Quidditch squad for sure. However, Albus did n't really desire to do that. Rose would hex him to next century and she 'd probably never mouth to him again. It would be a lot like if Rose told someone matte was a werewolf and if that happened, Albus would have the same response. Not that rosebush would ever do that.

They stayed in the Marauder 's Den until dinner. Dinner was much more than subdued than normal and James never made an appearance. Linda was sitting at the far end of the Gryffindor table with only blighter Aboriginal Australian near her. That sort of surprised Albus since he had never once seen her interact with anyone besides rose wine and Amanda.

"Albus,"someone put their hand on Albus 's shoulder.

Albus turned around and saw his dad, wearing the Sami forlorn look all the students were wearing.

"Dad,"he said,"Were you at the peer ?"

"Yeah, I was sitting with Lily,"Harry nodded,"Have you seen James ?"

"Have n't seen him since right after the friction match. He went into the changing room. Actually, I have n't seen shimmy either. Maybe he 's with James."

"Merlin, I hope so,"Harry ran a hand through his hair,"I 've checked everywhere I can remember of. make me wish I had n't given him the map."

"You can use mine,"Albus suggested,"But I want to go with you."

"All right,"Harry said,"Let 's go."

Albus said goodbye to his friends and walked up to Gryffindor tower with his dad. He ran up to his dorm once he was there and retrieved the map. The dormitory was empty, so Albus and his dad looked at it there.

They scoured the Hogwarts part of the map for nearly five minutes before coming to the conclusion that James IV was no longer in the school.

"Bloody inferno,"Harry muttered,"Where did he go ?"

Albus pressed the number two in the corner of the map with his verge and the map of Hogsmeade appeared. This one was a bit more difficult to seek than the Hogwarts one had been. Most of the Hogwarts students had been in the Great Hall. Everyone was spread out in Hogsmeade.

Two dots made Albus freeze. Two dots were in the Shrieking Shack. A closer flavor told him they were slip and Henry James. Albus gasped. Why were they there ? How did they get in for that matter ?

"Dad,"Albus pointed to the screeching Shack.

"The Shrieking hovel ?"Harry shouted and stood up.

Albus followed him out of the dorm room and then out of the common elbow room."How 'd they get in ?"Albus asked once they were walking through the corridors.

"Teddy knows the counter-charm for those wards,"Harry muttered.

"Why ?"

"Everyone who goes through Auror training learns a very large variety of counter-charms. One of them was bound to work on that tree. Now, he was n't supposed to use them outside of breeding, so I really have no clew what he was thinking,"Harry explained

It had gotten low temperature and blowy outside since the mates, which really made Albus marvel why Teddy and William James would go to the shriek hovel of all places. The decrepit old building had no heat, for Merlin 's sake.

Albus dodged a branch from the Whomping Willow as they neared it. Harry aimed his sceptre at the bed and muttered the counter-charm. Then he froze the tree. Albus hurried after him into the passageway.

The walk to the Shrieking hutch was merry and understood. Albus, who had been on the receiving end of many a lecture from his dad, knew that both Teddy and King James I were going to get one once they made it to the Shack.

Harry carefully opened the door and walked into the quiet old building. Hushed voices could be heard from the binding room. Albus followed his dad back there.

Teddy and James were both sitting on the base. James II looked a concluded stack, still wearing his muddy Quidditch robes and his face was all blotchy. Teddy did n't look much better, although his gown were a bit cleaner.

"Teddy. James II,"Harry said sternly when he entered,"What in the epithet of pigeon hawk 's pants are you doing in this billet ?"

Both boys snapped their drumhead up at the speech sound of Harry 's voice.

"Trying to convince James IV not to reach the biggest mistake of his life,"chemise muttered.

"That sounds a bit overdramatic,"Harry said.

"He wants to quit the Quidditch team,"Teddy said dryly.

"That is the most idiotic thing I 've heard,"Albus shouted,"You ca n't do that !"

"Albus,"Harry warned.

Albus shut his lip, but he still thought the very melodic theme of Epistle of James quitting the team was genial. They 'd have no hope of ever beating New York, let alone Australia, without James.

"XX minute of arc, Dad,"James said in barely More than a whisper,"Twenty minutes."

"We 've all had our bad catch,"Harry said quietly as he sat down next to James,"I fell off my ling in my third year and lost a match."

"Because of the dementors,"King James I muttered,"There were n't any dementors at this match."

"James, I 'm afraid everyone has made you out to be the unbeatable searcher. Todd 's commentary today proved that. The bet are set so high with you that when you do fall back a match, it completely shocks everyone. It 's form of unfair, actually, because nobody can win every mates,"Harry replied,"You 're not the unbeatable seeker, I 'm afraid. And running away will get you nowhere."

"I suppose,"James sighed.

"You 're playing New York side by side,"Harry reminded him,"They lost to Australia sooner than we did. I think you have a chance at catching the Snitch then."

"I guess,"William James replied.

"So you wo n't stop ?"Albus asked, unable to keep placidity any longer.

"No,"James said.

"trade good. Because Lisa Galivant is nowhere near as good as you. You 're the best Seeker Hogwarts has got,"Albus told him.

"Thanks, Al,"William James gave him a half-smile,"Too bad Australia 's got a improve one."

Albus nodded, wishing that he could just order James why Linda was so trade good. But he had variety of promised Rose he wouldn't.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You guy wire are awful.

I 've written a new song fic, Lie to Me. It 's a Remus/Tonks and is in no way connected to my Albus series, but if you guys want to check it out, that would be awe-inspiring !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


On their way back to the rook, Harry gave shift and James I that lecturing Albus had been expecting him to give. Albus walked a footling shipway behind them. Far adequate to ready them imagine they had privacy, but close plenty that Albus could take heed what they were saying.

Harry made it open that he was not impress that teddy was taking advantage of the charms he was learning in training. In fact, Harry said if he caught Teddy doing it again, he 'd experience to cover it.

Then he told James River that the screech Shack was well out of leap and that if he went in there again, he 'd report James IV to Professor Longbottom. Albus doubted either of them would set foot in the plaza again.

"Why did n't you just go to the Room of requirement if you wanted privacy ?"Harry asked before leaving James and Albus in the Entrance Hall.

Teddy and James looked at each other and then laughed."It was otherwise occupied,"shift grinned,"Fred 's got himself a lady friend. They were enjoying the privacy of the elbow room of Requirement."

Harry smiled and shook his mind."Next clock time, just ask Neville if he 'll let you spill the beans in his field of study. I 'm sure he will. I 'll see you boys after full term is over, then."

Albus and James said goodbye to their dad and teddy and then walked back up to Gryffindor pillar in silence. James was obviously still upset over the match and Albus did n't want to say anything to stool it worse.

"They 're doing a full investigation of Linda 's heather !"blush wine announced when Albus found them in the common room. James II had gone directly up to his dormitory.

"Yeah, woods 's just told us,"trick continued,"Stripping it down, plus they 're interviewing the Australian captains, schoolmaster, and everyone on the team, including Linda."

"Wow,"Albus was impressed. They would n't feel anything, of course, but it was still nice that they were taking this seriously,"Wish it would actually help."

"Me, too,"John agreed,"So where was James ?"

"The Shrieking Shack,"Albus whispered.

lustrelessness dumped his ink bottle all over his homework and swore."How 'd he get in ?"

"He was with shift and teddy knows the counter-charm from Auror training,"Albus said quietly,"But he was n't supposed to use it outside of preparation, so my dad told him if he does it again he 'll get in trouble. Do n't care, neither of them will go in there again."

"Still, of all the berth they could 've gone ..."lustrelessness 's voice trailed off.

"Why were they there ?"Rose asked as she siphoned the ink off of mat 's homework.

"James IV was thinking of quitting the team,"Albus whispered,"Do n't worry, he did n't,"he said quickly when he saw the disgusted look on privy 's face.

"Well, thank Merlin for that,"John said.

******

It must have been a slow news day the adjacent day. One of those days where the front page article of the Prophet was about a Whitney Young whizz who had graciously volunteered his clip in the closed in ward at St. Mungo 's or an senior hag who passed away, leaving her chance to her cats.

That is, if it were n't for the fact that the section of Magical Games and Sports and the department for International Magical Cooperation doing an all out investigation on the Aussie shoal of black art 's Quidditch team, Linda team spirit and her broom in particular.

Albus was quite scandalise to see the protracted article by Rita Skeeter on the movement page. He hardly ate any breakfast as he read it out forte to his admirer before classes.

The Aussie School of necromancy : Did They cheating ?

In a competition of Quidditch and dueling, which reminds
many a witch and wizard of the thrilling and slightly
more severe Triwizard tourney, accusations came
yesterday of whether the team from Australia cheated.

A couple was held between the Hogwarts and Australian
teams yesterday afternoon and was over in twenty dollar bill minutes.
The musical score was 270-110, in favor of Australia. Linda
Morales, 13, of Australia, caught the Snitch in what
some people believe to be an impossibly fasting speed.

"It was like one minute of arc she was flying above the pitch shot
and I blinked and then she was on the undercoat with the
canary in her hand,"one Hogwarts student said.

Many early students and a few stave member recalled
the same affair. The many witnesses of this near
impossible flying have fueled the investigation.

If it is discovered that Australia used any good luck charm,
potions, expletive, hexes, or anything else deemed
unacceptable by International Quidditch banner,
a rematch will be played between Hogwarts and
Australia.

"We do n't get it on what we 're going to encounter,"Ian
Herkimer, of the Department of Magical biz and
Sports, said of late yesterday,"On the one hand, it
is nearly out of the question for a baker's dozen year old miss
to fly that fast on the broom she was using. On
the other hand, all the Calluna vulgaris used in this
competition were extensively searched for charms
before the match. It could very well be that young
Linda Morales is just an exceptionally good
Quidditch role player. If that is the cause, then scouts
from professional teams may wish to pay tending
to this competition."

Perhaps the most challenging part of this report is
that the Hogwarts Seeker is none other than Henry James
ceramicist, son of the legendary Gryffindor quester
Harry Potter. James Potter, 15, has lived up to
his father 's reputation in the past tense and has never
lost a compeer this quickly before. Neither St. James the Apostle
or his father were available for comment.

Is Linda Morales a cheater ? Or is she merely the
next greatest Quidditch star ?

"Great,"Albus set down the paper,"low she 's going to win this competition and then be drafted to diddle for Puddlemere United."

"We do n't deliver to worry about her playing for the shank,"John smirked,"That would get rid of their awful reputation."

"That would be a bad matter because ... ?"lustrelessness said.

"I would n't get to pass water fun of them anymore,"John grinned.

"Not a bad matter,"Matt replied.

The entire school was talking about the article all day long. Everywhere Albus went, someone was discussing it. Most probable due to this, St. James the Apostle spent the day in his dormitory.

"Why 'd Skeeter have to vex James in that article,"Albus lamented as he, matt, lav, and Kaden wandered the corridors. rosebush and Amanda had gone to find Linda, to see if she knew anymore details about the investigation.

"Because she 's Rita Skeeter,"John said,"She never writes an article without sticking your dad in it somehow."

"I know. Rita Skeeter 's horrible,"Albus said.

"There are a few newsman in Australia who could give her a run for her money,"mat muttered.

"So irresponsible !"a hushed voice said from a schoolroom they were passing.

Albus stopped. He did n't recognize the phonation and it did n't sound happy. He gestured for his friends to block off as well and paused to listen.

"We 're already skating on lose weight ice !"the man was saying,"start she catches the sneaker ten minutes into the first match and now she flies too fast for mass to see and beats Saint James the Apostle Potter ? Now there 's an investigating for merlin 's sake !"

"I did n't know she was going to do that !"another man said,"I made it clear to her that she could only fly slightly in force than the former thespian !"

"Told you they were cheating,"John whispered.

"We were n't the 1 arguing with you,"Albus replied,"That was Rose."

"The bloke doing the yelling is the Australian schoolmaster,"lustrelessness said.

"The other one 's probably the captain, then,"Albus said.

"Well, you must not accept told her enough because now she 's on the nominal head Thomas Nelson Page of the oracle and the Ministry is investigating ! Do you have any estimation what 's going to happen if anyone finds out ?"the headmaster raised his voice.

"Of course of action I do !"

"Let me refresh your retention anyway. We 'll both be fired and Australia will be out of the competition. underworld, we 'll be lucky to get away with fines and no jail time !"

"That would n't be a bad thing,"King John muttered.

"You hear that ?"the schoolmaster barked,"Someone 's out there."

Albus turned in panic to his friends and before he could run, the door opened all the way and Albus was staring at who he assumed to be the Australian Quidditch captain. The man was marvelous and lanky, the utter build for a Chaser. His whisker was messy in a way that reminded Albus of his father, but this man 's hair was tripping brown.

The headmaster appeared behind the man, along with a surly looking boy who must 've been around Teddy 's age. Albus assumed he was the assistant captain.

"Well, who have we here,"the headmaster smirked.

Albus was frozen in place. The book binding of his mind said to run, but he could n't get his legs to work. He was staring the bloke who was so prejudiced against werewolves that he refused to let lustrelessness attend his school in the side.

"You 're the Potter boy,"the headmaster continued,"The younger one."

Albus forced himself to nod only because he did n't really want to be mistaken for Jesse James at the moment.

"That means ..."Killigan 's eye moved from Albus to John, Kaden, and then Matt,"That one of you is probably,"his eyes rested on flatness and then he smiled,"The Eckerton boy. I was told you were here."

Albus turned to look at Matt, who was now almost as white as prof Binns. Albus shook his headspring, grabbed mat 's arm, and took off running. The step behind him told him that St. John the Apostle and Kaden were following.

Albus did n't stop running until he made it to the vulture 's Den. He completely ignored the Prefect who told him not to run in the corridors and Filch 's new cat.

"Bloody hell, how did he oversee to figure out which one of us you were ?"john asked Matt once they shut the door,"He has n't seen you in years !"

"Lucky guessing,"Kaden shrugged.

Matt shook his pass."No. None of you lot have blonde hair."

"But still, how does he know I 'm friends with you ?"Albus asked,"Of all the blonde haired students here, he picked you. He somehow knows we 're friends. Remember, he said 'you must be the Potter boy', which is n't abnormal. Everyone knows who I am. But then he said 'which means you must be the Eckerton boy .'mortal 's telling him about you."

"So much for trying to dismiss him,"Matt groaned,"Now he knows who I am. Merlin knows what he 's going to try to do now."

"Why does he even worry ?"Kaden asked,"I thought he did n't need you at his school. If he hates werewolves so very much, would n't it do more than sense that he ignore you ?"

Kaden had a spot. Albus had n't really thought about it before, but it was kind of strange that Killigan would be so interested in Matt. But then, why would he let a lamia attend his school ?

"That actually makes a lot of sentience, Kaden,"lusterlessness said,"Why does he manage ?"

Albus did n't know, but something told him it meant nothing good. Whatever Killigan was doing here, it went deeply than just trying to win a Quidditch tournament by having a vampire for a Seeker.

******

It took the Ministry three daytime to complete the investigation. During this fourth dimension legion Ministry officials appeared at the school and held audience with Killigan, the Aboriginal Australian maitre d', and the Australian players. They even interviewed Henry James, Joseph Oliver woodwind instrument, Todd Smith, and Professor Kendrick. Albus heard that every Calluna vulgaris on the Australian team had been stripped and checked for illegal magic.

The resultant were announced before Rita Skeeter wrote another article. A Ministry functionary read them at dinner Wed evening.

"Upon close inspection of all the Aboriginal Australian broomsticks as well as extensive interviews with everyone involved, the Ministry is able to say that Linda Morales 's capture of the Snitch was a event of pure talent and nix illegal. I thank you all for your cooperation during this time,"he said and then resumed his seat next to Kendrick.

The Great Hall erupted in angry shout. Everyone was staring at Linda and it looked like she wanted to evaporate. rose and Amanda were sitting on either side of meat of her and rose wine was whispering to her.

Albus and his champion were n't expecting anything unlike, but they had to act angry for visual aspect 's rice beer and it was not difficult to do so.

Kendrick eventually had to abide up and severalize everyone to tranquilize down. It worked, but nobody stopped talking about the results.

It was still possible for Hogwarts to win the rivalry. If they won every compeer from now on and continued doing well in dueling. The contest was n't even half over, so there was plenty of time to pull ahead. However, the chances of doing so were low so long as Linda was playing seeker for Australia.

The remainder of the week passed with continual Quidditch discussion. James was still abnormally subdued and sat quietly with Ben, Cedric, and Nate every eventide in the plebeian room. Albus was hoping it would blow over during the vacation. It was foreign seeing his brother so quiet.

There was a Hogsmeade visit that Saturday and true to her parole, Rose went with Albus and his friend instead of Linda.

It was a particularly frigid and blustery winter day with a unbendable snow that had already dumped six inches on the grounds. This was n't nearly enough snow to keep people out of Hogsmeade and all the workshop were fully to capacity.

Kaden had begged Albus to give him the map so he could swipe in, but Albus refused. The Hogsmeade visit before Christmas seemed too bad. Too many students went on that one. The Valentine 's Day one would be better, when the other students were too absorbed in their dearest lives to detect a endorsement year in Hogsmeade.

"Let 's go get Butterbeer first,"Amanda suggested as they made their way into the settlement,"I 'm already frozen solid."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed.

The trio Broomsitcks was already packed, but they managed to find out a tabular array and Albus went to get five Butterbeers. When he returned, everyone was talking about what they were doing for the holidays.

"My mum has decided she wants one of my aunts to do Christmastide this year,"John said,"She 's done Christmas Day at our planetary house since she and my dad got married and it 's finally jade her out. The shady thing is that none of my aunts really know what to do, so my mum is doing as much work as she always does."

"I ca n't imagine Christmas not being at the Burrow,"Rose said.

"Me either,"Albus replied as he set down the Butterbeer,"The Burrow is just so Christmasy."

"Believe it or not, but I 'm not going to Australia for Christmas this year,"Matt announced.

John the Evangelist spit out his Butterbeer."What ?"he coughed,"You always go to Australia."

"I know,"flatness said,"Never had a Dec 25 anyplace else."

"Why ?"Albus asked.

"Well, you know how my dad 's going to be the new Head of the Department of the rule and Control of Magical fauna. He officially starts on January second. But the Ministry is throwing a see party for him on New year 's Eve. He did n't really want it, but they insisted. So, we 've got to go to that. Hopefully it 'll be respectable than the company my grandparents have."

"Rose and I will probably go to that, too. My dad 's always invited to those things since he 's head of the Auror Department. My entirely family goes to them. There 's always something to do, especially if James is feeling particularly mischievous. blush wine 's parents get invited, too. So does my Uncle Percy,"Albus explained.

Matt grinned."Well if you lot are there it wo n't be bad."

"This party 's going to be anything but boring,"Albus grinned.

"Never thought I 'd wish well I was going to a phantasy political party,"John sighed,"How about you, Amanda ? Any parties ?"

"Nope,"Amanda laughed,"Just spending time with my family."

They finished their Butterbeer and went back out into the snow. Honeydukes was their first stop, where Matt proceeded to buy enough chocolate to course all of Gryffindor. His alibi was that it was for Christmas presents, but Albus doubted as to whether the drinking chocolate would ever give it home.

Honeydukes was really too crowded to stay in very long, as were most of the other shop class. They wound up just wandering up and down High Street until they got to the shrieking hutch.

After a very abbreviated snowball fight Rose suggested they just go back to the schooling and spend prison term in the piranha 's Den. Nobody argued since they were all cold-blooded and wet from the snow.

******

The next two hebdomad went by in a blur for Albus. It seemed like he just went from one Quidditch praxis to another, with dueling practice and lessons with Balladanis thrown in. Albus had started making progress with his shell spell, but so had Malfoy and neither of them were better than the other.

At their last deterrent example of the terminus, Balladanis reiterated how significant it was for them not to practice while at habitation. He then told them to deliver a safe holiday and be ready to play even harder when they returned.

Linda 's amaze pinch of the Snitch had already started to blow over before term ended. Everyone seemed much more sharpen on getting a few weeks off from school than a baffled Quidditch match. This helped generate St. James to his normal self and he finished off the term with his usual pre-holiday prank.

This one was a petty less harmless as he just charmed the suits of armour to sing Dec 25 carols at random times of the day. Of course, the carols were alternated with 'Hogwarts will win the Cup'and 'Hogwarts is better at Quidditch than Australia'and 'Hogwarts will pulsate New York in the next match'. William James was never caught, though.

Eventually the carol wore off as did the pro-Hogwarts content and everyone packed and got set to go habitation. Albus wondered for a moment what it would be like to stay at school over the holiday. He knew his dad had done nearly every class, but Albus could n't imagine not being with his family for Christmas.

Albus and his supporter found a compartment towards the back of the train and settled in for the farsighted journey.

"What are the Australian and American kids doing for Noel ?"Kaden asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"Some of them are going menage, but near are just staying at Hogwarts. Linda 's staying,"Rose told them.

"I bet it was Linda,"toilet muttered absentmindedly.

"What ?"Albus asked.

"Linda. I 'll bet every Knut in my pocket that she 's the one who told Killigan who matt was,"trick explained.

"You 're just mad at Linda for winning the mates,"rose wine rolled her oculus,"She did not severalize Killigan."

"Why not ?"Albus asked,"He 's her headmaster. Why would n't she tell apart him ?"

"I do n't sleep with. I just do n't call up she did,"pink wine muttered.

"Even that does n't explicate why Killigan wanted to know,"Amanda pointed out.

"Which means we have to determine out,"Albus said.

"find out what ?"Matt asked sleepily. The full moon was that dark and he had fallen asleep as soon as they got on the train.

"Why Killigan was so worry in you that sentence we spied on him,"Albus explained.

"Oh,"Matt said as he leaned his heading against the windowpane,"How are we going to do that ?"

Albus did n't know. All he knew was that it could be tough and there was a big chance of them getting in trouble. An unsettle silence fell upon the compartment. No one knew how they were going to get answers.

"Do you reckon Linda 's teammates know she 's a lamia ?"Kaden asked towards the end of the journey.

Albus, who had been drifting off to sleep, lifted his forefront up."good question."

"They do n't,"Rose reply,"They just think she 's really good."

"Interesting,"Albus said,"I bet she would n't be allowed to play professionally."

"She would n't,"bathroom confirmed,"lamia ca n't playact professional Quidditch. It 's unfair to the eternal sleep of the teams."

"I 'd pay a lot of money to see two team of vampire playing Quidditch against each former,"Albus grinned.

"You would n't be able to see them,"John laughed,"They 'd be flying too fast."

"I 'd care to see lamia play football,"Kaden announced.

"Of course of action you would,"St. John rolled his eyes.

The son spent the relaxation of the trip discussing vampire Quidditch while Rose and Amanda played Muggle placard games. Before longsighted they were in London.

All of their parents were standing together on the platform. Albus said a quick bye-bye to lustrelessness before his parents hurried him out of the station.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awful people who have read and reviewed this !

For those who are concern, I posted a sort of epilogue/short sequel to In Moonlight 's dark. It 's called Life Amidst the Moonlight and is on my source 's page.