Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus spent most of the daylight preceding Christmas at rose wine 's home. James was determined to use all of his unornamented clip for Quidditch drill, and he had to go to rosebush 's house for that. Albus usually went with him and he and Victor-Marie Hugo would help Saint James practice while rose read.

Harry had to practically freestanding James from his heather by magic on Xmas Eve so they could go to Godric 's hole. James wanted to stay on at rosiness 's house and stay fresh practicing, but Harry refused to let him. The trip was quiet since James was rather sullen the entire time.

"prof Patil says I 'm a rude at Transfiguration Day,"Lily bragged to Albus as they walked towards the burrow afterwards.

"That 's practiced,"Albus replied.

"Yeah, so I 'm going to become an Animagus eventually. I want to be a cat."

"You do n't get to opt what kind of animal you transform into,"Albus told her.

"Oh,"Lily said,"But I think I 'll become a cat."

Albus nodded as Lily began to identify in peachy item what kind of cat she would transform into.

Everyone else was already at the Burrow and Albus felt an immediate warmth come over him as he stepped inside. It had null to do with the fact that it was so common cold and snow-clad exterior, either. There was something so comforting about being at the Burrow surrounded by all his family. He was able to leave all the issues with the Quidditch tournament and prof Killigan. All he could guess about was how ravenous he was and how good some of his grandmother 's cooking would be right about then.

Rose sat down next to Albus as he tucked into a orotund bowl of onion soup with a side of homemade bread.

"Uncle Charlie and auntie Katherine are going back to Romania this summer,"rose announced.

"To tame more dragons ?"Albus asked. His uncle and aunty had n't done that since Henry M. Stanley started Hogwarts, but they often talked about how they wanted to go back.

"Yeah,"Rose nodded,"They might stay even after the summer 's over, but broom and St. Mark will get along back to go to Hogwarts."

"They get to go, too ?"

"Yup. Henry M. Stanley and Eddie are going, too. Stanley 's quitting his job for it. He 's definitely staying in Rumania after the summer 's over. He wants to get into flying dragon training."

"Wow,"Albus replied,"They 're prosperous. I guess it 's good that Sir Henry Morton Stanley decided what he wants to do."

Stanley had been working at the Magical zoo since he finished Hogwarts, but knew he did n't want to do that his unharmed life sentence. He just did n't know what he did desire to do.

"I wish our parents would take us to some other country,"Albus sighed.

"Me, too,"Rose agreed,"Imagine the history we could learn."

Albus personally had plenty of history from professor Binns, but he supposed learning history by traveling would be fun.

"Yule Quidditch tomorrow ?"Teddy asked as he sat down following to Rose.

"Definitely,"Albus grinned.

"I would n't bet on it, teddy bear,"Molly said as she handed Albus another hunk of bread,"We 're supposed to get the snowstorm of the 10 tomorrow. The Muggle electricity is already out in town."

"Is it really ?"Chester Alan Arthur popped his head into the room,"Fascinating ! I may suffer to go see it tomorrow !"

"You 'll do no such thing !"Molly shouted,"It 's go up impossible to Appparate during such a tempest. Not to mention the fact that it 's Christmas and you should be here."

"We do n't need electrical energy to play Quidditch !"Teddy exclaimed,"It 'll be perfect training stipulation ! If you can catch a stoolie in the center of a rash, you can pick up one in any weather condition. It 's not like Kendrick ever calls off Quidditch because of snow."

"We 'll see tomorrow, Teddy,"molly sighed.

Albus finished his soup and he and stand up went into the den, where they were greeted by a loud chorus of 'Odo the Hero', sung by George III, Alicia, Charlie, and Ron. peak and Fleur were laughing while Hermione shook her head. Albus had a feeling the exclusively reason why Fleur approved was because the singing was drowning out Celestina Warbeck.

"So then I said, I 'm not paying seven reaping hook for that !"Percy said to Katherine, who was only sort of paying attention,"And the lad looked at me like I was mad. I say he 's mad, charging that very much for a term of enlistment of a questionably historic old building. There really should be regularisation on such things. It 's one thing I 'll change if I 'm ever Minister."

Albus stifled a laugh. His Uncle Walker Percy had been talking about running for minister for the past ten age, but still had n't done it. Most of his uncles and auntie got spew of hearing him talk about what he would and would not commute.

"Hey, Albus, pink wine,"Victoire waved at him from across the room.

"Hi Victoire,"Albus made his way over to her,"How is healer training ?"

"Exhausting,"Victoire sighed,"And I have to figure out which part of the hospital I want to do the respite of my grooming in by September. We 've been rotating throughout all the floors, but now we have to find fault one. I 'm nowhere near decided."

"You have until September,"Albus shrugged. It seemed like a prospicient time to him.

"I know,"Victoire replied,"But Amy 's known where she wants to eat up training since we were in fourth part year."

"You 're not in Amy 's situation,"Teddy appeared and put his arm around her,"And I think you 'll do enceinte anyplace you decide."

"Thanks, Teddy,"Victoire smiled,"I 'm thinking either the gestation ward or turn Damage."

"There 's a busy Ward,"Teddy grinned,"Spell wrong. You 'll get all the funny combat injury there."

"That 's not a good reason to pick a specialty,"Victoire groaned.

"goodness a reason as any,"teddy bear shrugged.

The time grew later and after Albus played numerous rounds of Exploding snap bean with his full cousin, his grandmother announced that it was time for bed. Everyone argued, but there was really no point. Everyone, including the former adult, knew that arguing with molly Weasley was useless.

Albus trudged up the stairs to the highest bedroom that he shared with St. James the Apostle, Ben, and Cedric. He climbed into bed and then realized just how big this impendent rash was. The tip was howling louder than he 'd ever heard before.

The confidential information was so hefty that Albus could feel it through the crack in the windowpane. Every once in a piece, the house would whine and stimulate. Albus sighed and put his pillow over his ears to try and submerge out the howl.

Albus did n't manage to drift off to sleep until after Cedric got out of bed, swore loudly, and disregarded the no witching outside of school rule to put a silencing spell on the room.

******

Albus was awoken by his yearbook Christmas wake-up cry, Lily. She breezed through the doorway shouting about how they all needed to awaken up and open their present tense.

"And there 's three feet of snow outside,"Lily said as she left the room,"I checked."

"Merlin !"St. James jumped off the top buncombe and looked out the window,"There is ! And it 's still coming !"

"Whoa, you ca n't see anything !"Cedric added.

"We could build the world 's vainglorious snow wizard later,"Ben suggested.

"We could build an stallion snow wizard army,"Albus said.

"Presents first,"James said as he located his pile of presents.

Albus descended upon his own pile of present and began opening them. There were the usual sweets and Weasleys'ware from his aunts and uncles. Another Weasley sweater, this one orange red and amber striped. He pulled it on over his jammies and opened the ease of the presents from his aunts and uncles. His Aunt Hermione had gotten him a few al-Qur'an he 'd probably never record, including one about the history of business firm elves at Hogwarts.

Albus saved his parents'present for hold out, although he doubted they could top last year 's. There really was n't anything in the worldly concern that was better than the Invisibility Cloak.

"Al, did you afford Mum and Dad 's yet ?"James shouted.

"I 'm opening it now,"Albus said as he ripped the paper off the small box.

"You 'll never hazard what they got us !"

Albus opened the box and saw two just the ticket. Two tickets for the Quidditch World Cup that was taking place this summer !

"Whoa !"Albus shouted,"man Cup tickets !"

"I did n't even know they were on sales agreement this early !"King James I said.

"You two get the better presents,"Cedric said.

"Hey, I got two tickets,"James replied.

"Yeah, two,"Ben sighed,"You can only pick one of us to go."

Albus suddenly realized he had the same trouble. Two slate. Five friends he would desire to look at. Who was he going to prefer ? Not rosiness. They may have been friends since they were sister, but she just did n't let a heat for Quidditch. Neither did Kaden. He was another to interbreed off the list. John the Divine and matt were the Quidditch fan. He 'd sustain to pick out between them. Amanda liked Quidditch well enough, but she did n't be a team or anything.

"Those are fix variation tickets,"Ben said,"They do n't have a go at it who 's playing yet, so they do n't sell very many tickets ahead of time."

"They 're for the top box, too,"James said in awe.

Lily burst into the elbow room with a big grinning on her face. She was holding two tickets as well."Did you get Quidditch tickets ?"

"Yeah,"Albus and James said at the same time.

"This is going to be brilliant,"Lily said and then ran out of the room.

Albus 's parents were already in the kitchen by the prison term Albus went downstairs. They were sitting at the table eating breakfast. Albus gave them each a Brobdingnagian hug and then sat down.

"How did you get the tickets ?"he asked.

"They were a gift from the Minister,"Harry replied,"The Cup is in Canada this year and he 's secure friends with their minister of religion. Got him a lot of free tickets."

Albus grinned as he began to eat breakfast. Somehow his parents had come close to topping last year 's present. Now not only was he going to get to see the mankind Cup, he would get to travel to a different country.

rosiness came downstairs a little while later and was impressed with the ticket. She had no desire to go to the Cup and had no suggestions on how Albus was going to prefer between King John and Matt.

"Anyone up for Quidditch later ?"teddy announced as he sauntered into the kitchen.

"Not under my sentinel !"molly shouted,"You ca n't see a metrical unit in front line of you out there ! And it must be close to 15 below !"

"Maybe after lunch, then,"slip shrugged.

mollie shook her head and sighed as she set a few more disk of eggs and toast onto the table.

There was a knock on the doorway that could only just be heard over the howling wind. Molly glanced at Chester Alan Arthur, who shrugged and got up to see who it was. Albus followed, very queer to see who would visit on Christmas dawning in the center of a huge blizzard.

"Xeno, is that you ?"Arthur shouted outside.

"Yes !"Xenophilius Lovegood shouted back. Arthur stood aside as the man walked in and then shut the door behind him."Quite the violent storm we 're having ! Just thought I 'd arrest by and see if this lieu was still standing."

"Quite the violent storm, yes,"Chester A. Arthur agreed,"I heard the Muggles lost electricity. Fascinating. I wonder what they do without it. But yes, the house is still standing."

"goodness, but if you feel it 's too rickety, just let me know and I 'll go get some of my Jutispy Plants. The parting do wonders on old edifice. make up them like new. I just put a crew into my billet and it 's a good thing, too. Of course, they tend to pull in Nargles ..."Xenophilius 's voice trailed off.

"I 'll keep on that in mind,"Arthur smiled,"Are you spending the holiday alone ?"

"Yes, yes,"he replied,"Luna and Rolf are with his sept this Christmas."

"Then you must stay here a while. Molly 's cooked far too much food, like common,"King Arthur lead Xeno into the kitchen.

Albus followed them. He always found Xenophilius Lovegood to be an interesting champion, if not a little mad. Always going on about Nargles or Nom-Noms or something.

molly was more than happy to offer Xenophilius with a large platter of breakfast and he settled down to discuss the storm with the adults.

Albus spent most of the morning playacting Exploding catch, Wizard 's Bromus secalinus, and Gobstones with his cousins. They tried to play hide and go attempt, but the house was too crowded to play it properly.

Teddy and Epistle of James kept looking out the window, willing it to terminate snowing. Both of them were just itching to go bet Quidditch. Albus would have gladly gone and played if it would stop snowing so much. He was dedicated to the game, but not enough to dally in this violent storm.

lunch period came and the snow was still falling. George II went outside to evaluate it and came back with the news that it was three and a half feet.

teddy went upstairs after dejeuner and came back decked out in three jumpers, a heavyset cloak, and a pair of bang. Under one arm was his broom and under the early was a box of Quidditch balls. James was right behind him, dressed the same.

"Theodore Remus Lupin !"Molly shouted,"I suppose I ca n't stop you from going out there and catching death of a moth-eaten, but I will not let you sweep James with you !"

"He 's not dragging me, grannie,"James rolled his middle,"I want to go !"

"Just let them, Molly,"Harry said,"They 'll get cold soon enough and get along back inside."

"Fine,"molly replied and went back into the kitchen.

"Excellent,"shift grinned,"Anyone care to get together us ?"

Empire State of the South, Fred, and Heather suited up in tender apparel and joined teddy and King James. Albus decided against it. Quidditch was fun, but he did n't want to immobilize when he could stay inside and be warm.

The Christmastime Quidditch lasted a one-half an 60 minutes. shimmy, James, Georgia, Scots heather, and Fred all stumbled back into the menage shivering with their faces red and covered in blow and ice. molly immediately descended upon them with mugs of hot chocolate and dry clothes.

"Told you, Molly,"Harry grinned.

"C-ca n't happen the Sn-Snitch,"Teddy muttered.

Harry laughed."That does n't surprise me. You 'll find it when the storm calms down. You put the charm on it to quell in the yard, right ?"

"Y-yeah,"teddy bear replied.

Christmastime dinner came and went in its usual chaos. Xenophilius stayed for it and James snuck sneezing powder into his soup, which he found incredibly funny. molly was not as affect and gave James quite the scolding. How she found out it was Jesse James was beyond Albus.

The storm continued throughout the Night and Cedric had to put the silencing charm back on their room in order for any of them to get any sleep.

******

Nobody left the tunnel until two days after Xmas. That was when the snow finally let up. It topped out at around four and a half base, which was a new record for Albus 's life. The Burrow 's grand had been decorated by XII of hoodwink beldame and sensation, along with hippogriffs, owls, and a multifariousness of former magical creature.

When Albus found out what his kin was doing after they left the Burrow, he wished the snow would have kept coming. They were going shopping for dress robe for the New twelvemonth 's party.

"Why ca n't I just wear my old dress robes ?"James whined as they walked down Diagon back street towards Madam Malkin's.

"Because they 're five inches too short,"Ginny replied,"They 're even too small for Al."

"Yeah, Hugo 's the lucky one,"James IV muttered. Hugo was wearing James 's old dress robes to the company and therefore did not have to go shopping.

"mummy, I want purple robe,"Lily announced.

"If they have any,"Ginny replied.

Albus wanted to buy the first pair of dress robe he found, so long as they were n't pink or empurple. The sooner they were done gown shopping the better.

pink wine and Lily made a beeline for the young lady dress gown as soon as they walked in the door. Albus stood awkwardly next to Jesse James while their mother found various robes for them.

"Here, try these on, Al,"Ginny handed him a duo of emerald green robes.

"Very Slytherin,"James I snickered.

"Shut it, James,"Albus muttered.

"They 'll impart out your centre, Al,"Ginny told him,"Now go try them on."

Albus reluctantly tried on the Slytherin colored robes and then left the dressing room for his female parent to see.

"Too inadequate,"she announced,"But the coloring is consummate. I 'll find out a with child size."

St. James wound up with a navy blue pair of gown, which Albus would bear preferred. Lily found her purpleness robe and Rose got a sky patrician couplet.

"Next time you 're getting green robe,"Albus muttered to James, who was still making fun of the color of Albus 's robes.

"No I wo n't. I do n't have green center,"King James I grinned.

"Then we 'll get you a nice red set,"Ginny said,"They 'll clash horribly with your hair."

"I do n't like. They 'd be Gryffindor colored,"James laughed.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this ! Also, for anyone who read In moonlight 's shadower, the beginning chapter of the sequel, Beyond the Shadow, is now up !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The party was at the Minister 's mansion house, the house where all the rector of Magic had lived. Albus had been there a few times before, but not in a couple twelvemonth. Usually all the party the pastor held were while Albus was at Hogwarts.

A few hours before the party, Ginny made Albus, Henry James, and Lily all take shower bath and ransack their hair properly. She spent a trade good fifteen instant trying to get James 's pilus to lie mat and another fifteen minute putting Lily 's up in some sort of expatiate bun case thing. Albus was very well-chosen his own whisker was far too short for that sort of thing.

Before they left, Albus 's parents sat him, James, and Lily down on the lounge and proceeded to assure them the rules for the evening.

"Absolutely no making trouble !"Ginny stared at James as she said this,"None at all ! This is the Minister 's theatre ! I will not induce you wreaking mayhem in it."

"We 're trusting you to go on yourselves occupied during this. I 'm going to have to mingle with everyone and we wo n't be able-bodied to look on you every arcsecond,"Harry added,"You 're all at Hogwarts now. You 're old enough to not be glued to us for the evening."

"Do n't concern,"Saint James said,"I know when balefulness is n't appropriate."

"Let 's hope so,"Ginny sighed.

Albus and his category Apparated to the Minister 's house, which meant side-along Apparition for Albus. He hated side-along Apparition. It felt like he could n't breath. It was worse when the person who was Apparating him was also Apparating another individual, which was always the instance in his fellowship. It was the curse of being the middle child. He was either with Saint James or Lily. This time it was with Lily and Harry was Apparating them.

When Albus had regained his ability to breath properly, he looked around at where they had landed. He was standing on the social movement lawn of what was the most overweening planetary house he had ever seen. It could n't be considered a house ; it was just too monstrous.

A long and winding sidewalk, framed with Dubya and lights on either side of meat, take up to the front line doorway. Albus 's parents started walking up and Albus followed.

The mansion seemed to get bigger as they got closer. It was painted brown with a smuggled roof and reminded Albus of a castle. It was n't nearly as big as Hogwarts, of course, but it was still huge.

Harry rang the bell when they arrived at the doorway and it was answered by the Minister himself."Harry !"he shouted,"Come in !"

Minister Langston Hartwell was the thirdly pastor since the gloaming of Lord Voldemort. He was a marvellous, rotund man with very short hair left on his nous. He did lark a rather large mustache, which caused Albus to retrieve of him as a much taller version of prof Slughorn.

Hartwell was one of those very educated magician who spoke using very large words that Albus could n't really read. He was long-winded and most of his speeches could be condensed down into a few conviction, according to Harry, that is. He was a very nice man, though.

"right wing this way,"Hartwell motioned for them to come after him.

Hartwell lead them through the house, which was just as spick as Albus remembered, and into what could only be described as a grand ballroom. It was the same ballroom all the party Albus had been to were held.

The room was decorated with silver and black and was already filling up with masses. Albus spotted Rose and Matt in the spinal column of the elbow room and left his menage in the door to go see them.

"Some stead, huh ?"Albus said once he reached them.

"This is the large house I 've ever seen,"Rose agreed,"I see you 're wearing your Slytherin robes."

Albus rolled his eyes."Shut it."

"What do you cerebrate, flatness ?"rosebush turned to matte,"His mum says they match his eyes, but William James says they 're Slytherin robes."

"Slytherin,"Matt said immediately.

"Then yours are Ravenclaw,"Albus pointed out, gesturing to matte 's spicy robes.

"I do n't care,"lusterlessness shrugged,"So, did you just get here ?"

"Yeah,"Albus replied.

"I 've been here for two hours already,"mat said,"We were the initiative one here. Dad keeps introducing me to mass and they all think I 'm a first year."

"Bet that 's fun,"Albus laughed,"Do you know nearly of these hoi polloi ?"

"Some,"mat said,"That 's the bloke Dad 's taking over for,"he gestured to a very vauntingly wizard,"McVicar."

"Right,"Albus said,"I 've heard of him. Dad 's always said he would never retire."

"Dad never thought he would either,"matte laughed,"Then we 've got your Uncle Percy, I think you probably know him. Those people are a few of Dad 's colleagues,"matte gestured to a few Sir Thomas More witches and hotshot,"Then there 's a caboodle of people from former department, but I do n't retrieve any of their names."

"Looks like it 's going to be a fun night,"Albus said sarcastically.

"Oh, it will be,"Matt grinned,"When I was really niggling, we went to political party like this a few times a month. You make your own fun."

"Like what ?"Albus asked.

"Charming alcohol out of the wine-coloured and champagne. It 'll still smack exactly the same,"Matt grinned mischievously,"By the time midnight rolls around, everyone will be wondering why they 're not drunk. It 'll be funny."

"You 've done this before ?"Rose raised an eyebrow.

"Amy has,"flatness said,"She 's here somewhere and she 's going to do it soon."

"I have to intromit, that 's really originative,"rose giggled,"What else ?"

"Mostly stuff with the food. Charm the chocolates to taste like vanilla, charm the serving utensils to strike every time you go to blame them up, that kind of stuff and nonsense,"Matt explained.

"My parents gave us this manner of speaking about how we ca n't play put-on here,"Albus said,"She was saying it mostly for Jesse James, but I think she should 've given it to you."

"My parents never say that stuff to me,"Matt laughed,"They never suspect me of anything. The second they find out the alcoholic beverage 's been charmed out of the swallow, they 'll ascertain Amy."

"She is the one who 's going to do it,"Rose pointed out.

"It was my melodic theme, though. She was n't originally going to do it at this company,"matte explained.

"alcoholic beverage 's gone,"Amy said quietly as she came up behind Matt,"This is going to be interesting."

"What exactly happens when you use this charm ?"rosiness asked.

"Oh, it 's great,"Amy grinned,"beginning, only a twin citizenry notice and they make a very quiet mention to another someone and then that person agrees that there 's something wrong with the drinks. Then it just snowballs from there until it 's all they 're talking about. Then mortal will try out the drinkable, reveal the alcohol 's been charmed away, substitute it, and then everyone will cheer. But some of them will act inebriate because they think there 's alcohol in the drinks."

"Are n't your parents going to be upset ?"blush wine asked.

"They might state me they wish I had n't done it, but there 's not much they can do,"Amy shrugged,"That 's why I 'm doing it and not Matt."

"I could n't see your parents yelling at you anyway,"Albus laughed.

"You never know,"Matt shrugged.

"I bet Saint James the Apostle and Cedric are going to do something,"Albus said as he scanned the crowd. King James I and Cedric were sitting at one of the table, heads close together like they were plotting something.

"I 'd be shocked if they did n't,"Rose smirked,"auntie Ginny has no hope of stopping James."

"And I 'd bet my last Galleon that Sakartvelo and Bradley are talking about Quidditch,"Albus gestured to his other two cousin, who were standing near the buffet.

"That 's all they talk about,"rose wine said,"And Lily looks bored. Five sickle says she 's over here in about ten proceedings or so."

"I would n't bet against that,"Albus said,"And Samantha and Lindy will sneak out of the way the next time Aunt Corrine looks away."

Albus 's aunt Corrine was talking with two witch Albus did n't know and his Twin cousin-german were chasing each other around the room.

"Are any of your other cousins coming ?"Amy asked.

"Nope,"Albus shook his head,"None of my other aunts and uncles work for the Ministry."

"Let 's go get something to eat,"flatness said.

Albus and rose agreed. Amy left to go lecture to someone else and the three friends walked over to the sideboard. There was already a small queue in front of it.

"There go Samantha and lindy hop,"Rose said as they waited. The Twin ran out one of the door and Corrine quickly followed.

The waiting line moved quickly and soon Albus was in front. He grabbed a plate and piled it high-pitched with just about everything. There was always the best food at this kind of political party.

They found an vacate tabular array far enough away from James and Cedric. Albus did n't require to be anywhere near them when they did whatever they were planning on doing.

"I do n't even get it on what half this stuff is,"Matt said as he began eating,"But it 's good."

More and more people arrived as Albus ate his dinner. He recognized a few of them, but did n't remember any names. He also noticed that nobody was acting strangely due to Amy 's charm. They were all acting perfectly normal for adults who had had a few drinks.

Albus, mat, and blush wine wandered around the room once they finished their food. A few adult stopped to exclaim how big they 'd induce and to enquire what year they were at Hogwarts. Lily joined them because she did n't require to be associated with Henry James and Cedric 's mischief.

"Hello, everyone !"government minister Hartwell shouted from the podium at the straw man of the room.

Everyone quieted down and turned to watch him. Albus, Rose, and Matt were somewhat stuffy to the podium.

"Thank you,"he smiled,"I assume you all know why I 've thrown this political party, and it 's not just to unload the large sum of wine-coloured I was given for Yule !"

The adult all chuckled at Hartwell 's endeavor at a put-on and then quieted down once again.

"Yes, yes, well, this company is in honor of none former than Walter Eckerton, whom I have appointed to the position of Head of the department of Regulation and Control of Magical animal. There is no one else whom I would trust with such a job ...."

Hartwell 's words soon descended into one of his usual speeches, which Albus could not realize. It was long, drawn-out, and Albus could 've sworn he saw his dad oscitance at one point.

Albus clapped loudly when Hartwell finally finished and turned the podium over to McVicar.

"Thank you, minister of religion,"McVicar began,"That was quite an interesting speech. I, too, would like to plume Walter Eckerton on his promotion.

"I am sure at to the lowest degree half of you were quite surprise to see that I was retiring. I myself was surprised. In fact, I probably would n't experience done it if it were n't for the fact that my wife has been begging me to for the past ten geezerhood.

"However, the briny reason for my lack of an earlier retreat was because there was not a single person employed in the Ministry whom I would ingest trusted with this job. Nobody had the capableness to carry out this position in the way I would care. Like they always say, if you want something done right, do it yourself. That was my catchword up until five years ago, that is.

"A little over five years ago, a man came into the Ministry looking for a job in the section of the regularisation and ascendancy of Magical creature. He applied for a job in Werewolf living military service, a position that had been subject for well over a year. I was ready to hire anyone who walked through the door at that point, but I had no idea what was to do when I hired Walter Eckerton.

"Some of you may know that Walter has experience in this field. He was the question of the Department of regulation and ascendance of Magical fauna in Australia for three years before leaving the position in order to incite to England.

"Walter revolutionized Werewolf keep Services as soon as he started. The ideas he had were ones that even I had n't thought of. In five dead years, he has bettered life for those plagued with lycanthropy more than anyone else in the department have in their entire careers.

"It took only six months for me to realize that I wanted Walter to ingest over for me when I retired. Not only does he throw the experience and intelligence for the job, but he also has loyalty that I have never seen before. I even have to allow in that his dedication surpasses my own. I have never seen anyone conflict as hard for lycanthrope rights as he has.

"The but affair left for me to do was convert myself it was meter to retire,"McVicar chuckled,"And yes, it did take the punter persona of five long time to do that. But now, I feel very convinced as I hand the reins over to Walter."

Everyone clapped as McVicar stepped away and Matt 's dad took the rostrum."That was quite the speech,"Albus muttered to Matt.

"I 'll say,"Matt agreed,"And McVicar does n't usually praise people like that."

"fountainhead,"Matt 's dad began,"Thanks for your voter turnout of confidence, Rob. I certainly hope I can endure up to your expectations.

"I have to start by saying how unexpected this was. I really had no intent of becoming the head of the total department again, no matter which land I was living in. lycanthrope living Services has been such a large place to work these past few years. It truly is my passion.

"However, when Langston and Rob approached me about taking over when Rob retired, I found it difficult to say no. In the end, I said yes because I want to make more of a difference.

"Of path, I could not have gotten to this home without the assistance of my wife, Julie,"he gestured to mat 's mum, who was standing near the ambo,"And my daughter, Amy, and my son, mat.

"I 'm not one for foresighted speeches, so I 'll just say that I look forward to starting the job and I truly promise I can be at least half of the headland of the department Rob has been."

"I just hope none of them find out why my dad 's so dedicated,"Matt whispered.

"They 're too drink to call up much on it,"blush wine smirked.

"They 're not really pledge,"Albus reminded her.

"They 're certainly acting like they are,"rosiness pointed out.

A good portion of the adults were acting very drunk. In fact, if Albus had n't known about Amy 's charm, he would say they all really were wino. The Wyrd affair was that everybody was acting drunk. There did n't appear to be anyone who was thinking there was something awry with the drinks.

"Let 's go ask Amy about it,"lustrelessness suggested.

Amy was standing nearby, so Albus, matte, and Rose squeezed their way through the crew to get to her.

"Amy,"matt whispered,"Why 's everyone acting pattern ?

"I do n't know,"she whispered back,"Let 's go flavor at the drinks."

Henry James and Cedric were also standing near the drink board, looking nearly as confused as Albus felt about this appeal. That was kind of strange.

Amy grabbed a glass of wine and tried it."Well, it tastes fine, but it 's supposed to."

"You 'll have to drink a lot Thomas More than that to get properly drunkard,"Matt grinned.

"I 'm not doing that,"Amy rolled her eyes.

"Actually,"James I grinned mischievously,"That might get you drunk."

"What did you do ?"Albus groaned.

"Cedric and I added some duplicate intoxicant to that wine,"James whispered.

Albus, Rose, flatness, and Amy burst out laughing. Albus could not believe it. All of their pranks had backfired. The wine was now perfectly normal.

"What 's so odd ?"Cedric asked.

"Amy pulled a prank, too,"Albus said.

"I put a charm on all the wine-coloured to remove the alcohol, while keeping the taste,"Amy explained,"I did it right hand when the party started."

"So much for that prank,"James IV groaned.

"Now you wo n't get in hassle,"Albus pointed out,"Mum 's been watching you two."

"I know,"Saint James the Apostle muttered,"That 's why we ca n't do it again."

"What do you want to do now ?"Albus asked as Jesse James, Cedric, and Amy left.

"Want to explore the government minister 's manse ?"Matt suggested.

"Is that allowed ?"Rose asked skeptically.

"I do n't see why not, I mean, this is my dad 's party,"lustrelessness pointed out,"Plus, we 'd just be walking around."

"Let 's go,"Albus said and go them out of the ballroom.

It was practically quieter in the eternal rest of the house. They started wandering through any way that had open doors.

"This place is so blooming fancy,"Albus said.

"It reminds me of my grandparents'house,"matt said.

"Their sign of the zodiac is this big ?"Rose asked.

"Nearly,"flatness replied,"They 've got a dance hall and everything."

The three champion wound up in a very tumid living room filled with antique furniture. There was an oriental carpet on the ground and oak table and bookshelves around the perimeter. Atop the tables were image vase of heyday and crystal sculptures.

"We 'd better be careful in here,"Rose said as she walked into the room,"If we break any of this clobber, our parents would mangle us."

"Cinda 's got one of these,"Matt pointed to a crystal swan.

"Do n't allude it !"Rose hissed.

"I was n't,"Matt assured her,"I broke Cinda 's once, but Mum fixed it."

"feeling at all these books,"Albus gazed up at one of the bookcases,"ma'am Pince would bonk to get her paw on these."

"They 're all about politics, though,"matt pointed out,"Pretty boring."

"Mum would like them,"Rose said

"I wonder how old this furniture is,"Matt said as he looked at a rather uncomfortable looking armchair.

"Probably aged than Aberforth Dumbledore,"Albus replied.

"Hey, Albus, Matt, amount here,"blush wine said as she looked out the window.

Albus and matt walked over to the window and leaned over the mesa that was in front of it.

"What is it ?"Albus asked.

"spirit, there's-"

flatness leaned farther over the table and knocked one of the watch crystal sculptures off. rose wine gasped and managed to catch it before it crashed onto the floor.

"Merlin,"Rose whispered as she set it back on the table,"Be careful."

"Sorry,"flatness replied,"What were you saying ?"

"There 's person sneaking around out there,"rosiness said.

Albus peered out the window into the darkness. He could just barely make out a shadow lurking around the bushes. It did n't seem like the person was walking up towards the sign of the zodiac to go to the party. Plus, why would he evince up three 60 minutes late ?

"There 's definitely soul out there,"lustrelessness said.

"Let 's go find out who it is,"Albus said. He did n't have a clue as to who it was, but he wanted to find out. There was no intellect for person to be sneaking around the Minister 's residence at this clip of night.

"Albus Severus ceramicist, are you bloody insane ?"rosebush exclaimed,"I think you are !"

"Look, I just want to go see if we can find out who it is. I 'm not saying we should go duel them. Plus, there 's a whole room wax of Ministry officials in type whoever is out there is someone bad,"Albus said.

"That 's a good point,"lusterlessness replied,"Why would mortal sneak around a house that 's full moon of Ministry officials, especially when the two top Aurors are inside ?"

"I do n't sleep together,"Albus said,"But I want to get out who it is."

rosebush reluctantly agreed and followed Albus and Matt, muttering under her breath. They found the nearest room access and went out into the frigid night, drawing their wands as they did so.

"If we are n't killed, we 'll freeze to death,"rose muttered.

Albus ignored her and started looking around. He stayed close to the mansion and tried to keep himself concealed in the George Bush as he looked for the figure. However, he could n't see or hear anything.

"Do you hear anything ?"he whispered to Matt.

"No,"Matt replied,"It 's like they disapparated or something."

"good,"pink wine muttered,"Now let 's go back inside."

"They could 've just moved,"Albus pointed out,"Let 's sustain going."

Albus continued creeping around the mansion, with his wand out in front of him. His heart was beating fast and his manus were sweaty despite the coldness. He did n't want to stop, though. Figuring out who this fellow was was exciting and mettle wracking at the Saami time.

"Do n't move !"someone shouted and all of a sudden there was a bright spark in Albus 's middle. Wand light.

Rose screamed and grabbed hold of Albus 's arm. Albus held up his own sceptre, his script shaking.

"Who are you ?"the someone shouted.

"Wh-who are y-you ?"Albus stammered.

"He sounds familiar spirit,"lustrelessness whispered,"Hang on. Bloody netherworld, that 's prof Balladanis !"

Albus thought for a second and the voice did sound a lot like Balladanis. But why would he be sneaking around the Minister 's Mansion ?

"Albus ceramist, is that you ?"the man shouted.

"Er, yes,"Albus replied.

The baton Light Within lowered and Albus heard the man tone through the snow towards him. Albus saw that he was indeed professor Balladanis. He breathed a sigh of succour as Rose let go of his arm.

"Mr. thrower,"Balladanis said and then waved his wand around,"And Miss Weasley, Mr. Eckerton. Oh, I suppose this party is for your Church Father, Mr. Eckerton ?"

"Y-yes, sir,"matte replied.

"What are the three of you doing sneaking around outside in the dead of night ? I thought I 'd teach you advantageously than that. You 're just asking for bother,"Balladanis said sternly.

"Told you,"Rose whispered to Albus.

"Er,"Albus began,"We saw someone lurking around out here and went to enquire. I guess that mortal was you ...."

"And you 're lucky it was me,"Balladanis barked,"The three of you could throw been dead if that individual had been a disconsolate wizard. Now, I 'm taking all three of you back inside."

Albus nodded and followed Balladanis through the coke and towards the door."Sir,"Albus said,"If you do n't mind my asking, what were you doing outside ?"

"If you must know, the Minister asked me to check the grounds in order to attain sure cypher was lurking around,"Balladanis replied.

That did cypher but arc Albus 's rarity even more. He knew better than to crusade further, though. Balladanis was not one to explicate his motives.


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.


It was nearing midnight when Albus, lusterlessness, and Rose re-entered the building, escorted by professor Balladanis. Albus had been hoping the professor would just see them to the door and then remain his hunting of the margin, but instead he went back to the dance hall with them and marched them right up to Harry.

"ceramicist,"Balladanis interrupted the conversation Harry had been having with some hotshot Albus did n't know,"I found your son, your niece, and their friend wandering around outside."

"Albus,"Harry groaned,"I thought we made it clear that you were to stay inside."

"I 'll leave them with you,"Balldanis said,"Happy New Year."

"Happy New Year,"Harry replied,"And thanks."

Balladanis disappeared into the crowd and Albus shifted uncomfortably as his dad stared at him for a few moments.

"fear to explain ?"Harry raised an eyebrow.

"We were just, er, exploring,"Albus muttered.

"Do n't do it again,"Harry sighed.

"We wo n't,"Albus assured him.

Harry went back to his conversation and Albus lead his friends back to the counter.

"I hope you 've learned your deterrent example,"rosebush muttered,"I am not doing that again."

"We wo n't do it again. Not tonight, that is,"Albus grinned.

"10 !"someone shouted.

Albus looked at the approximate clock and saw that it was almost midnight. Everyone else joined in the countdown, holding their glasses of champagne in the air. Amy joined Albus, blush wine, and Matt.

"3, 2, 1, Happy New Year !"Albus shouted along with everyone else.

The crowd began to cut out a little while later. Most of the hoi polloi Albus did n't sleep together left, along with his Uncle Percy, aunty Corrine, and his cousins. Albus 's parents did n't wait like they were in any haste to leave, so he got a plate of the leftover dessert and at them with his friends.

Rose 's syndicate and Amy left, and then it was just the Potters, matte, his parents, the Minister, and his wife left. All the adults were talking, King James was teasing Lily about something, and Albus and lustrelessness were finishing off the shoemaker's last of the desserts.

"Do you think there 's any way for Hogwarts to win the Quidditch tournament ?"Matt asked as he polished off a composition of burnt umber cake.

"Only if Linda 's spue the day of one of the matches,"Albus sighed.

"Maybe that 'll happen,"Matt said,"You never know."

"Al, we 've got to go,"Ginny tapped him on the shoulder.

"Ok, Mum,"Albus replied and then turned back to flatness,"I 'll see you soon."

"Yeah, see you on the train,"matt said.

Albus waved adios and then joined his mum, dad, James, and Lily. They all said congratulations to Matt 's dad and then left the Minister 's Mansion. Albus peered into the scrub as he left, but there was no signboard of Professor Balladanis.

******

The residual of the Yule holiday went by very slow for Albus. He did all his homework, which was quite boring, and there was cipher to do after that. Rose was visiting her former grandparents and Saint James was at Nathan 's house. Even Kaden was fussy visiting his grandparents ( Vernon and petunia ). He sent Albus a letter complaining about it, since the sojourn was also with aunty margarin. Albus was very grateful that he did n't have to go. Neither of his parents had mentioned anything about visiting with Vernon and petunia again.

Finally the day to return to schoolhouse arrived and the Potters made it to Platform 9 ¾ just in time. Albus found all his protagonist in one of the compartments and once they kicked Lily, Ashtyn, and Hugo out, they told each early about their holidays.

"aunt Marge has got to be the most horrible aunt in the entire domain,"Kaden fumed,"My dad told her about magic trick a few months ago and she 's been awful ever since. I mean, she was always form of horrifying, but now she 's big. She just hates deception so much. She 's tough than my grandparents."

"Wow,"Albus replied,"Glad I 've never met her."

"Consider yourself lucky,"Kaden muttered,"I 'm guessing you lot had better vacation ?"

"We found professor Balladanis lurking around the Minister 's Mansion,"Albus announced.

"What ?"Gospel According to John, Kaden, and Amanda shouted at the same time.

"I saw someone sneaking around outdoors and Albus insisted we go look into,"Rose said,"Turns out it was Balladanis and the pastor had apparently asked him to moderate the grounds for trouble."

"Did he see you ?"John asked.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"He was n't to glad either."

"Told us we could 've been killed,"mat explained.

"well, we could 've,"Rose muttered.

"Weird though,"lav said,"Why would the Minister think someone would be hiding around his business firm ?"

"Does n't he ingest precaution around anyway ?"Amanda asked,"The Muggle Minister does."

"Again, that 's why it 's Wyrd,"John replied,"He does take in guards."

"Why would he ask Balladanis anyway ?"flatness asked,"Why not ask an Auror ? Balladanis is a professor."

"He has n't always been,"Albus pointed out,"He had some kind of mystic job before."

"Again, weird,"John the Evangelist said.

"Yeah, there were a gang of Aurors at the company, not to mention Albus 's dad,"Matt pointed out.

"That settles it,"John Lackland announced,"Albus, you 've got to find out what he did before he started teaching defending team ?"

"Why me ?"Albus asked.

"Because you 've got those limited dueling deterrent example with him. He likes you for some reason. Of class, he also likes Malfoy. But that 's probably just because Malfoy 's a trade good dueller, too,"toilet explained.

"I 'll try,"Albus sighed,"But I really do n't call up he 'll assure me."

"You never know,"John said.

******

"repose, quieten !"Balladanis shouted the following Tuesday, their 1st day of Defense after the holiday.

Albus immediately stopped talking to matte and John and turned to face Balladanis. He was really hoping that the professor would say zippo about what happened at the party and so far Balladanis was showing no recollection of it.

"I trust you all had superb holidays,"Balladanis said,"But the vacation are over and although I am for sure none of you thought a bit about justificatory legerdemain during said vacation, it is now time to commence that thinking once again.

"showtime, I 'll say that there is no time to not be thinking about defensive magic, as the darkness arts do not take breaks for trivial matter such as holidays.

"Second, in this full term we will start to explore fauna far more grievous than hinkypunks and kappas. In this term we shall learn about those terrifying creatures such as acromantulas, basilisks, werewolves, dragons, and vampires."

Albus could n't aid but glance at Linda when Balladanis said vampires. Balladanis had glanced at her as well, and he also glanced at Matt when he said lycanthrope. Of line, he had looked at Albus when he said basilisks, so it did n't necessarily entail anything, but Albus had a feeling it did.

"As the schoolmaster would discover it highly inappropriate for a flying dragon to certify itself in this schoolroom, we shall not be using the anamatek as often this full term,"Balladanis continued,"But we will be using it a few sentence. You will find that there are Sir Thomas More lectures in this term, much to my dislike. There is nothing I would care full than to instruct you about acromantulas and lycanthrope with practical object lesson, but there are both law and schooltime rules that prevent such lessons."

Albus and Matt glanced at each other. It was official. Professor Balladanis was insane. What sort of teacher would want to teach about dragons with hold up flying dragon ? Well, Hagrid would, but he was n't the same as Balladanis.

"Take out some sheepskin,"Balladanis said,"We 're going to commence learning about acromantulas today ...."

The rest of the day went by relatively quickly. Albus actually did not have Quiditch practice that night, so everyone went to the piranha 's Den after dinner.

"foretelling is such a antic,"John said as he tossed his bag onto the floor and collapsed onto a couch,"We started lechatelierite ball gazing today. All I saw was a load of fog."

"I told you not to guide it,"pink wine said as she pulled a stack of Scripture out of her own bag.

"I did n't think it would be this bad,"John groaned,"There is no way anyone could see anything in a watch crystal ball."

"chirology was better,"Amanda said,"And Trelawney makes the totally affair worse."

"Trelawney could make Defense bad,"Albus replied.

"Balladanis told us that he wished he could teach us about dark creatures using the anamatek,"blush wine said,"Seriously, he wanted a basilisk to appear in the eye of the classroom."

"That would be unintelligent,"Kaden said as he unwrapped a Chocolate anuran,"Those can kill you with their eyes."

"I know,"rose wine said,"Balladanis is insane."

"Do you think that anamatek could rick into a loup-garou if the moon was n't fully ?"Gospel According to John asked.

"Probably not,"Matt answered,"It would just be a wolf. I think it would just be a beast any other meter of the month, too, because there 's no way it could work someone into a wolfman by biting them."

"That 's expert,"Albus said,"Because he did say that he 'd use the anamatek a few times this terminal figure. marvel if he 'll throw it turn into a vampire."

"No need,"can laughed,"We 've got Linda."

"If you think of it that way, there 's no point to give birth it ferment into a fudge werewolf either,"Rose pointed out.

"Good point, I guess,"John muttered.

******

The rest of the week went by quickly. Albus had Quidditch recitation Th evening, and Natalie Wood informed the unanimous team that they 'd catch rusty over the holiday. He also told them that the succeeding peer was in two weeks and they 'd be playing New York. If they won, they 'd be in second place.

Albus had a dueling object lesson with Balladanis the following evening and he had absolutely no melodic theme how he was going to ask what Balladanis 's previous job had been.

Albus arrived at Balladanis 's room before Malfoy and entered to find Balladanis clearing all of the desks from the middle of the room.

"Mr. thrower,"Balladanis turned around and greet Albus,"Is it rubber to assume that you did not go wandering about late at Night alone after New Year 's ?"

"Yes, sir,"Albus muttered as he felt his face turn red. He was quite glad Malfoy was n't there yet.

"Mr. Malfoy,"Balladanis said as Malfoy walked into the way,"Now we may start. I have decided that your understanding of the Protego charm is satisfactory so we are going to motivate on to something else.

"This particular magical spell, when performed correctly, manages to disarm and disorient a person at the same time. The sensation is often described as dizziness. Can either of you tell me what why this charm would be more utilitarian than a standard disarming while ?"

"Because it 's soft to duel someone who 's airheaded than individual who is n't,"Malfoy said.

"More specifically than that,"Balladanis said,"Mr. Potter ?"

"Er, because you can get the person tied up while they 're disoriented ? If they 're a drear genius you 're trying to catch,"Albus replied.

"Another serious intellect, but not the one I was thinking of,"Balladanis began to walk slowly around the way,"Wizards who are expecting to possess to duel former wizards often keep multiple wands on their individual. There are spells that can be performed on these wand to keep them attached to your robe or your actual body, spells that Expelliarmus wo n't overcome easily. However, these turn require unvarying assiduousness.

"If a wizard is hit with the charm I am about to learn you, they will lose the absorption essential to keep their duplicate wands affixed. Then, you can use Expelliarmus to get the extra wands."

"Can you teach us that charm to keep extra scepter in our robes ?"Malfoy asked.

"Perhaps towards the end of the year. It takes immense compactness and magic energy to simultaneously perform that magical spell while dueling mortal,"Balladanis explained,"For now, you will memorize the charm to unarm and disorient a person at the Saami time.

"The incantation is 'Confundo-Expelliarmus'. A combination of Confundus and Expelliarmus. Mr. Malfoy, you will go first. When I say so, do the magical spell against Mr. ceramist. Mr. thrower, you may try and contain him using the Protego good luck charm I taught you earlier."

Albus nodded, wishing he had been chosen to perform the new charm first, and faced Malfoy. He held his wand up and muttered 'Protego'under his breathing time. He focused all of his concentration on holding the buckler up.

"Now, Mr. Malfoy,"Balladanis muttered.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Malfoy shouted.

Albus felt the charm hit his shield, but it did n't break through. He gripped his baton harder and stared at Malfoy.

"hold going,"Balladanis said to Malfoy.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Malfoy shouted again.

The charm hit Albus 's shield a little harder this time. Albus could feel beads of fret forming on his forehead.

Malfoy kept going and it took him five times to break down through Albus 's carapace. When it happened, Albus felt his sceptre leave his hand and was overcome by a wave of vertigo at the Saami time. He felt exactly like he had when he had gotten the flu the former year, only without the fever.

Albus did n't pay any attention to what Malfoy and Balladanis were doing. He felt like he was going to pass out and he had to sit down. He sat down right on the flooring and was vaguely aware of Balladanis standing over him.

Then, all of a sudden, the giddiness was gone. Albus shook his head and then looked up and saw Balladanis and Malfoy standing in front man of him. Malfoy looked impressed and Balladanis looked like he always did.

"You did quite well with that carapace,"Balladanis said as Albus stood up,"And I think it 's safe to assume that you could n't have held assiduousness for any spells after Mr. Malfoy succeeded in breaking your shield."

"No, sir,"Albus shook his head.

"Normally the good luck charm 's effects would have lasted longer, but I performed the counter-curse because it looked like you were make to return out,"Balladanis explained,"When you 're gear up, you can try the charm."

"I 'm cook,"Albus said as he took his wand back from Malfoy.

Balladanis gave Malfoy a few second base to get his shield up and then nodded at Albus to perform the charm.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Albus shouted. As he expected, the charm did not break Malfoy 's shield.

Much to Albus 's pleasure, he managed to discontinue the shield on the fourth try. One lupus erythematosus try than Malfoy had needed for Albus.

The good luck charm hit Malfoy in the bureau and his wand soared towards Albus. Albus caught it and watched as Malfoy bent over and fell to the priming, much like Albus himself had done.

Balladanis gave Albus one of his rare grin and then pulled out his own sceptre. He waved it at Malfoy and Malfoy looked up.

"That was Weird,"Malfoy muttered.

"It 's supposed to be,"Balladanis said,"Now get up and we 'll do it again."

Balladanis kept them at it for the serious parting of an hour, past when Albus would have liked to throw in. It was exhausting to be hit with that spell clip after time while trying to make up a shield charm. Malfoy did n't seem to be faring much better and Albus thought he was even going to ask Balladanis to stop after a half hour, but Malfoy closed his mouth, obviously thinking in force of it.

The practice was n't for nothing, though. Albus managed to restrain Malfoy off longer and longer each time and although Malfoy was getting better at the shield charm as well, Albus broke through it a few more times.

"That 's enough for tonight,"Balladanis finally said after he performed the countercurse on Albus for what must have been the tenth sentence that Night,"I 'll see you in course on Tuesday."

Malfoy made a beeline for the room access, but Albus turned to Balladanis instead. He might as well just get it over with. There was no practiced way to ask Balladanis what his previous job had been. He just had to do it.

"Er, Sir,"Albus began,"I was just wondering, what did you do before you began teaching here ?"

Balladanis gave Albus the strangest look he had ever seen. It was a mixing of ira, sadness, and even regret. For a bit, Albus wished he had n't asked. It was too personal. He should receive just told lavatory they would n't be able-bodied to determine out.

"Now is not the clip,"Balladanis said quietly,"All in soundly time, I will tell you."

Albus was taken aback. That was more than he had expected. He had thought Balladanis would stimulate told him to mind his own business and get back to Gryffindor Tower before curfew. Albus was going to feel out, he was just going to have to be patient.

Albus left the room as quickly as he could in his tucker state, before Balladanis could change his mind about eventually telling Albus about his late career. The walk of life back to Gryffindor towboat seemed prospicient than usual and all Albus wanted to do was prostration into bed when he finally got there.

Instead, he was ambushed by all of his friends. All five of them looked appall and Amanda looked like she was going to be sick. He looked around the common room and saw that most people looked offend and everyone was subdued. There was no joking around going on. Even James I was quietly sitting at one of the tables.

"What happened ?"Albus whispered as he followed them back to their usual tabular array.

Rose opened her mouth to address and then closed her eyes, unable to do so. Albus turned to John and raised his eyebrows.

"You know that gent who owns Dervish and Banges ?"John asked quietly.

Albus nodded, having seen the man on numerous occasions when he was in Hogsmeade. He was slightly older than Albus 's parents, with greying hair and a very intense personality. He never hesitated to make his opinions known

"someone killed him,"Gospel According to John said in barely more than a whisper.

"Wh-what ?"Albus turned to reckon at all his protagonist in play. Matt nodded ever so slightly and then put his school principal on his hands.

"Must 've just happened,"John said,"They just found him. dame Rosmerta heard a commotion and Flooed here, to get the Auror on duty. By the prison term they got back, his shop was a sodding mess inside and he was laying drained on the storey. Avada Kedavra. They 're searching Hogsmeade, the forest, the grounds, and the shoal. Nobody 's allowed out of their common rooms and dormitories."

"We thought Balladanis would bring you back here when it happened,"blush wine said.

"cypher even came in to tell us,"Albus replied, still in shock.

citizenry were n't just randomly killed in Hogsmeade. That sort of thing just did n't go on anymore. Not since Voldemort had been defeated. Well, Professor Torro had been killed back before his first year and then that one beldame from the Ministry had been killed over Xmas, but their sea wolf had never been found and aught had happened since.

"Why would anyone bolt down him ?"flatness wondered aloud.

"Why would anyone stamp out anyone ?"Rose replied.

The portrayal golf hole opened and all the whispering stopped. Everyone looked to see who came in. It was prof Longbottom, looking big for the wear. His robes were disheveled and his tie was askew.

"Aurors are still searching the castling and the grounds,"he told them,"I suggest you all try and get some sleep. The hunting will be long over by sunrise, so you will be free to leave the common room then."

Albus and his acquaintance looked at each other after Longbottom left. They wordlessly went up to their dormitories, Kaden going with Albus instead of to the second years'dorm. nonentity said anything as he curled up on the base with one of Albus 's spare cover. Albus got into bed and stared at the ceiling. He had been so use up earlier, but now there was no way he 'd get lots sleep that night.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Lunch was very subdued the succeeding day. nigh masses had slept quite lately since it was a Saturday. Every student of Hogwarts had their nose in a written matter of the Prophet, be it their own or a friend 's. The staff table looked the same, with every professor either reading the Prophet or whispering with another professor, no doubt about what they 'd understand.

Albus was reading Georgia 's Prophet as she had finished with it and made a mental note to go subscribing himself. All of his friends were peering over his shoulders. Even Linda was hovering around them, a foot or so away.

HOGSMEADE shopkeeper MURDERED

A disturbance in Dervish and Banges late
yesterday evening that sent one Hogsmeade
house physician to Hogwarts to find the Auror on
duty lead to the discovery of the dying
of a shopkeeper.

Leroy Wisander, 42, the ten-year possessor of
Dervish and Banges was pronounced suddenly
on the scene by Ministry Aurors yesterday
evening. His shop had been broken into
and it showed house of a battle.
Wisander was discovered in the middle of
destroyed merchandise with his baton
laying a few feet away. Aurors confirmed
that he was killed with the killing curse.

An broad hunt of Hogsmeade, the
forest, Hogwarts, and its background turned
up nothing despite the minute Aurors spent
searching. No fingermark were found on
the scene.

Aurors will be devoting sentence to finding
Wisander 's killer and a possible motive.

Leroy Wisander had owned Dervish and Banges
for a little over ten years, when he
purchased the shop from its former owners
who retired. However, Wisander is more
known for the scathing editorials he writes
for this very newspaper.

Anyone who knew Wisander knew he was a man
of very strong notion and did not hesitate
to let others know his opinions. His virtually
recent editorials have explored the subject
of werewolf, lamia, and other so called
'half-breeds'right hand. Aurors have declined
comment on whether they believe Wisander 's
editorial are a possible motive for his
murder. Wisander 's obit can be found
on Sir Frederick Handley Page five.

Albus set the theme down and his Quaker all resumed their fanny. nobody said a word for a few minutes. Albus did n't make love what to reckon. The article certainly made it seem like Wisander was killed because of his beliefs. However, it did n't exactly say what his belief were. Albus had n't ever read any of his editorial, so he could n't say either.

"What kind of editorials did he write ?"Matt asked quietly.

"I have no thought,"Albus replied, looking at his Quaker whose cheek was quite wan,"Want to go to the way ?"

"Yeah,"mat nodded,"I 'm not really hungry."

Albus got up and was followed by all of his Friend. John and Kaden each grabbed a stack of toast before leaving. Even rosiness and Amanda went with them instead of going off to read with Linda.

"Have any of you read his editorials ?"Matt asked as soon as they were in the marauder 's Den.

Nobody had read them. Not even Rose. Matt sighed and collapsed onto one of the couches."I 've got to recover out what they were about. I do n't even have it off which would be better, him being for or against werewolf rights. If he 's for them, that means some bloke is on the loose killing citizenry for wanting loup-garou rights."

Matt did n't even have to continue for Albus to know why that worried him. lusterlessness 's dad was possibly the biggest proponent of wolfman rights in all of Britain and everyone knew it. If someone had been killed just for writing about wolfman rights, what would happen to soul who was actually passing Torah for them ?

"That might not be why Wisander was killed,"pink wine pointed out.

"Why else would soul have killed him ?"matte asked,"He was just a shop owner in Hogsmeade."

"Why did someone kill Professor Torro ?"John replied,"He was n't even writing any editorials or anything."

"To scare people,"Albus said quietly,"The DoD instructor lieu used to be cursed, back when our parents were in school."

"Well, I do n't recall you should worry until you find out what the editorials are about,"Rose said to Matt.

"The early option is n't a great deal better,"Matt muttered,"If he did n't spell editorials for werewolf right, then he wrote them against them."

Albus thought matte had a point, but he kept his sass shut. Any way you looked at it, this murder pointed to the fact that things were changing. Aurors had been patrolling Hogwarts for calendar month, but Albus had quickly adjusted to that and did n't really think much about it, but maybe there was more happening outside of Hogwarts than Albus was aware of.

"Let 's go to the subroutine library,"rosebush said as she stood up,"They 'll induce old transcript of the prophesier there."

Everyone agreed with this and they set off to the subroutine library. When they arrived, they were surprised to find how crowded it was. Usually Saturday were the days everyone put off their homework and then Dominicus were spent in the library.

Once they stepped inside, Albus saw that everyone was looking through old transcript of the prophet. Nearly every table had a few newspapers on it and a few students poring over them. Madam Pince was bustling about, no doubt worrying about whether the educatee would rip her precious newspapers.

"Might not be any pass on,"John muttered.

"This is beneficial,"Albus replied,"Now it wo n't look suspicious for us to be investigating."

John was almost right. There was a very small stack of newsprint left. Albus grabbed them all and then they went to a secluded table towards the binding of the program library. Albus, Matt, and rose wine each took a newspaper while John the Divine, Kaden, and Amanda played tit-tat-toe on a spare bit of parchment.

Albus leafed through his newspaper, which was about two years old, until he got to the editorial division. In the very middle, in the biggest font, was an editorial by Leroy Wisander.

HEALERS, BREWERS TO BLAME, NOT MINISTRY functionary

As I was locking up my workshop last night,
I noticed that it was a full moon moon. I
could not help oneself but think of the poor
people plagued with lycanthropy
currently shut up while attacking
themselves.

Now, I know what you all are thinking.
Aconitum lycoctonum. The stuff works miracles
if taken correctly. However, it does
no good if it 's sitting in St. Mungo 's
and not being used by crone and
champion with lycanthropy.

The stuff is expensive. I myself did
the calculations and discovered that
it would be extremely hard for
anyone with a low income to afford it.

And what form of job are lycanthropes
often stuck with ? Menial, low-paying
I. The business where they make hardly
adequate money to pay the economic rent and buy
food, let alone purchase a potion that
could alter their lives for the better.

I am absolutely shock that Healers
and potion brewers charge for this
important potion. They must be making
a overnice net income. They can use the profits
to occupy extravagant holidays while the
inadequate crone and maven who buy it
battle to afford it.

There is only so very much Ministry officials
can do. Head of Werewolf Support Services,
Bruno Walter Eckerton, says he would make out to
dedicate away free Wolfsbane, but there just
is n't elbow room for it in the budget.

What do I purpose ? I propose that Healers
and potion brewers give it away for free.
They have the power to brew it, not
the Ministry. Most healer claim to love
helping hoi polloi, but often it is those who
need it most, such as those with lycanthropy,
are often forced to go without, all because
those with the ability to brew it like
to have a piddling extra disbursal money.

"nix in this one,"blush wine said as she shoved hers aside.

"This one 's got one about vampires,"Matt said as he set his paper on top of Rose's.

"Read this,"Albus handed Matt his paper,"Wisander even mentions your dad."

Matt took the paper and he and Rose began to read it. John, Amanda, and Kaden peered over as well. Albus sat and waited while they read.

"Let 's go back to the room,"mat said as soon as he 'd finished Reading it.

Albus nodded and they returned the newspapers and walked as fast as they could back to the vulture 's Den.

"Bloody Hell, that bloke must stimulate had so many enemies !"John the Evangelist shouted as soon as they were back.

"I know,"Albus agreed,"And that one 's from two geezerhood ago. Imagine what he 's written recently."

"Why did he get to mention my dad ?"matte groaned,"He made it sound like my dad agrees with that editorial and he definitely doesn't."

"He was just trying to stir something up,"Rose replied,"And look where it got him."

"therapist are n't like that. Most of the one I 've met would dedicate away free people wolfsbane, but it 's more complicated that that. The ingredient are expensive and it takes forever to brew. Not to advert how difficult it is. There are n't many healer who can brew it and even nearly brewers ca n't brew it,"matte explained.

"That bloke did n't know the one-half of it,"John agreed,"My dad 's a Healer and he 'd get laid to give away rid potions. It just does n't work that way."

"My dad 's linked with that bloke,"Matt said quietly,"And now that he 's read/write head of the entire department, he 'll be passing to a greater extent laws. Whoever killed Wisander 's not going to be happy."

"Your dad 's a really practiced wizard, though,"Albus pointed out to his worried friend,"Plus he works at the Ministry, where there are loading of Aurors milling about. And your sign of the zodiac is more protected than any other family I 've seen, well, except the minister of religion 's Mansion."

"I know, but it 's still not good,"Matt sighed.

Albus could n't fence with that. Something was going on outside of Hogwarts. Something far more significant than the Quidditch tournament and the dueling tournament.

******

Albus and his admirer scoured the Daily oracle every break of day the following week. Every day there was an article about Wisander, the probe, or both. So far the investigation had turned up nil. The Aurors had questioned quite a few people, namely those very outspoken against werewolf and vampire right, but the search had proved fruitless.

The articles about Wisander were far more matter to. It seemed that his editorial about Wolfsbane Potion was one of the tamer ones. Each day little while of his versatile editorials were being published. In one, he stated the reasons why werewolves should n't be locked up on full moons. The cause were quite the absurd, but the Prophet had printed it anyway. Another editorial talked about why vampires should be allowed admittance to humans to bite. He suggested using captive and allowing lamia to wet-nurse them dry. Thus helping vampires and reducing prison monetary value at the same time.

"I reckon this feller was off his rock 'n' roll musician,"Gospel According to John announced at breakfast the following Sunday. He had just finished reading an article about how Wisander spent a year living with a vampire tribe in Turkey when he was Whitney Moore Young Jr.. They were some of the few people actually up at an early minute, as Albus had Quidditch practice and John had a morning hold with Filch for putting dungbombs in the toilets in Moaning Myrtle 's john the premature day.

"That 's a overnice way of putting it,"Albus said as he served himself more eggs.

"What are you doing after Quidditch practice ?"John the Evangelist asked.

"After Quidditch ?"Albus laughed,"You mean, I 'm going to get to leave eventually ? Wood wo n't construct us practice for the next week ? I thought he was going to keep going until the actual match on Saturday."

"He 's got to let you out for course of study,"whoremonger grinned.

"What a shame,"Albus rolled his eyes,"Anyway, I 'll probably deliver to do prep, since practice session will go until late. How about you ? Any architectural plan for after custody ?"

"idea I might garner another detainment,"John grinned,"But Kaden 's busy with chess order this afternoon-"

"wait,"Albus nearly choked on his juice,"Kaden joined the chess club ? Kaden ? Kaden Dursley ?"

"Know any other Kadens ?"John laughed,"rosiness said they want to teach him how to play properly, you know, like a challenge of sorts."

"I 'll secern blush wine good circumstances with that,"Albus said.

"Yeah, so both Kaden and Rose will be in use with that. Not that Rose would want to gain detention with me anyway. And Amanda 's doing something with Linda today, homework, I think. And I doubt Matt will be up for doing anything,"John continued.

"Right,"Albus said, remembering that the full moon moonlight was that night,"But you did the dungbombs on your own."

"But it 's not as fun,"John sighed,"I guess I 'll just hang around the den with lustrelessness. I can have a nice one-sided conversation."

"You can do your homework,"Albus told him.

"Nope, I 'm waiting until you get back for that,"Saint John said.

"Well, have fun in your detention. I 've got to get to practice,"Albus said as he got up.

There were a few option quarrel Albus had for practice that day. Long, grueling, and acute. woodwind was in his all right form as he ordered the team to do drills 60 minutes after hour. He seemed to get Sir Thomas More and more stressed as the day wore on.

King James did a lot of one-on-one education with slip and Albus was more than than a little envious. Teddy was a much more patient role captain than Natalie Wood was and yelled a altogether lot less. Tyler Pike mostly helped Wood.

Wood let them possess a short recess for lunch, making sure they knew to come back afterwards. Albus heard the Slytherins on the team talking about skipping out of the residual of practice, but they were back on the pitch at the metre forest told them to be.

The good afternoon was very similar to the morning and Albus found that he could tune out Wood 's yelling quite easily. It was standardized to tuning out his mum 's yelling.

Practice finally ended at three, when the New House of York team walked onto the pitch and demanded they leave, because they had booked the pitch for three o'clock that day.

"Remember, practice Tuesday eventide !"woodwind shouted as the altogether squad rushed to get off the pitch.

Albus trudged back to the castle tired and shivering. He went straight to Gryffindor Tower and took a very long, hot rain shower and then set off to retrieve his friends.

Rose, Amanda, and Linda were in the usual room, but the boys were n't. Albus figured they were in the vulture 's Den and set off to look for them after saying a quick hi to the girls.

John and Kaden were in the middle of a heated up game of Exploding Snap when Albus walked into the marauder 's Den a few minute of arc later. lavatory 's face was replete of ash, but Kaden 's was quite an light. There was also a big smile on his face which contrasted the frown on can 's face. flatness was laying on the couch facing them, like he had been watching the game, but he was sound asleep.

"Albus !"Kaden shouted,"How was practice ?"

"Grueling. Wood 's ten sentence worse than Sakartvelo. Five time of day we were out there. Five bloody hours in the cold !"Albus groaned as he collapsed onto the former couch.

"bettor than scrubbing Moaning Myrtle 's bathroom with a toothbrush,"John muttered,"I do n't know what was high-risk, the scouring or listening to Myrtle."

"All three of you are so cheery today,"Kaden said,"So many complaints."

"Can you blame us ?"Albus muttered.

"No, not really,"Kaden shrugged.

"How was chess ?"Albus asked.

"I got beaten by every single person in the cheat golf club,"Kaden shook his headway,"But they think I have potential."

"Albus,"John said as the card blew up in his aspect again,"Have you done that defence mechanism seek ?

"No,"Albus groaned.

"I need your helper,"bathroom said as he got up and started digging around in his bag.

Albus groaned again and fished around in his own bag for his Defense Department Word. Balladanis wanted a pes long essay about basilisks, which were the stream dark creature of the workweek.

John sat down at the table while Albus lay on the couch. He just could n't bring himself to get up and do his essay. Instead, he mumbled answers to St. John whenever he asked a question.

"Do you hatch the chicken egg under a salientian or a frog ?"John asked.

"toad,"Albus mumbled.

"You know, I could pull out a Rose and tell you to do your essay,"trick replied.

"Do n't even irritate,"Albus said. Even Rose would n't be able to get him off the couch.

"Quidditch seems less grueling than football game,"Kaden commented,"I mean, you fly, you do n't run."

Albus lifted his drumhead up and glared at Kaden."Wood had us doing push-ups and running laps."

"Really ?"Kaden sounded surprised,"Why ?"

"To get us into conformation after the vacation,"Albus answered,"So yes, Quidditch is a lot of work."

"Ok, ok,"Kaden muttered as he located some of his own homework.

Albus managed to get in a somewhat prosperous place on the lounge and wrote his essay with his leger and parchment perched on his human knee. It beat sitting at the tabular array ; at least he was able to sort of lie down.

A few hours later both Albus and John had their essays completed. Kaden was still scribbling furiously on whatever prep he was working on.

"We should probably fire up him up,"Albus gestured to Matt, who had not moved one muscle since Albus had came back from practice.

whoremonger got up and began to stab Matt 's arm. It took a good two minutes for Matt to open his eyes.

"It 's nearly six,"John told him.

"Then I should probably go,"Matt mumbled,"Oh, Albus, you 're back from practice."

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"It was really long, though."

"I 'll go with you to the hospital annexe,"John said and mat did not object. Albus assured him they 'd chatter him the next day and then they left, leaving Albus and Kaden alone in the room.

Gospel According to John returned a little while later and the three of them went down to dinner. They returned to the piranha 's Den afterwards and lav and Kaden continued working on their preparation while Albus slept on the couch.

******

"Albus, get up !"

Albus mumbled something incoherently and rolled over in his bed. It felt far too early to wake up.

"Albus !"Whoever was shouting was now prodding him in the side.

Albus opened his eyes and saw Teddy standing over his bed. A glance at the clock told him that, yes, it was far too early to waken up. It was six in the morning. On a Saturday. Yes, it was the day of the Quidditch match against New York, but that was n't until one o'clock and Albus was only a reserve player anyway.

"Albus, you 'd break get up now. woods 's in the usual room,"Teddy whispered.

That got Albus 's attention. His heart shot back assailable and he sat up."What ?"

"Fielding 's sick,"chemise told him,"You 're playing today."

Now Albus was all-encompassing awake."Seriously ? What about O'delle ?"Hailey O'delle was the former reserve pursuer, a seventh year Slytherin.

"She 's retch, too,"shift explained,"The two of them are going out, so it does n't surprise me."

Albus took that to mean that Teddy thought they were snogging and one got the other sick.

"I 'll be down in two minute of arc,"Albus muttered.

chemise nodded and left. Albus threw on a t-shirt and a distich of blue jean before running down to the common way, where he found Oliver Wood pacing in front of the evacuate fire.

"Albus,"he said as soon as Albus stepped into the usual room,"You 're playing Chaser today."

Albus nodded and sat down for what was sure as shooting to be a very long speech. Wood paused and then launched into an account of tactics, which Albus had already heard during practice session that workweek. He could n't project out why he had to be woken up at six to be told he was playing. forest could have accomplished the Same thing at ten.

Grant Wood and shift left after woodwind finished lecturing Albus and Albus considered going back to bed, but as he was wide awake, it would be pointless.

section of Wood 's speech had been on the weather, which was cold and slightly snowy. Could be worse, Albus thought. At least there was n't a blizzard. The conditions were very similar to those they had been practicing in all week.

Albus sat in the coarse room reading a account book he found laying around until his champion got up around ten.

"There you are,"Matt, who was looking significantly better than he had a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr. ago, said,"What time did you get up ?"

"Six,"Albus muttered,"Teddy got me up. Ellen Price Wood had to narrate me I 'm playing Chaser today."

"What ?"matte shouted,"That 's smart as a whip !"

"This is swell, Albus !"John grinned,"But why ?"

"Henry Fielding 's sick and so is the other backlog Chaser,"Albus explained,"I 'm just glad we 're playing New York and not Australia."

Albus went to the Great dormitory to eat lunch with his booster, but he was n't really hungry. He did n't intend he had ever been more nervous for a Quidditch match. This was a really authoritative match, as Wood had pointed out numerous times. If they won by a wide enough margin, they 'd be in second place.

Scripture had gotten around that Albus was playing in the match and numerous people came over to the Gryffindor table to wish Albus portion.

"Al,"Harry sat down next to Albus.

"Dad,"Albus smiled. He had n't been sure as shooting if his dad was coming to the catch or not.

"I 'll be watching the solid time. I 'm sure as shooting you 're going to do capital. Just think of it as a match against another house. Ravenclaw, I guess, since their gown are blue,"Harry grinned,"good luck."

"Thanks,"Albus replied.

Albus left with the rest of the Hogwarts team a few minute later. All his friends wished him good circumstances as he left the Hall.

cypher talked much as they changed into their gown. Everyone sat down afterwards, ready for Wood 's pre-match speech.

However, Wood seemed to be all speeched out. He merely said that they 'd trained well and to fall in it their all. Albus was a little shocked by the brusqueness of the speech, but quickly got over it as he walked out onto the lurch.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this !

Also, I wrote a new birdsong fic ! It 's from Snape 's point of persuasion, as I wanted to try something dissimilar. It 's on my Author Thomas Nelson Page if you want to curb it out !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Ten bit into the match, Albus decided there were four types of Quidditch in the Earth. effortless Quidditch, like what he played with his full cousin ; school Quidditch ; professional Quidditch ; and then there was the eccentric of Quidditch he was playing now.

It was a combination of schooltime Quidditch and professional Quidditch. The crowd was louder, the histrion more determined, and the stakes were higher than a normal school Quidditch match.

Albus dodged one of the New York Chasers and flew up to entrance the Quaffle, which had been dropped by Waverly as he had been hit by a bludger. As soon as Albus had the Quaffle, he was flanked by the other two New York Chasers.

Albus pushed his broom to fly faster and held the Quaffle tighter to his chest of drawers. Then he plunged down to the ground, where cipher else was flying. He was back up high two moment later when he had reached the New York goal spot. After dodging a Bludger, he threw the Quaffle into the left goal C. W. Post. The steward was too tardily and the Quaffle soared through.

"Potter of Hogwarts has scored !"Sweeney Todd metalworker shouted,"40-30 Hogwarts !"

James grinned at Albus as he flew yesteryear. Albus smiled to himself and joined Waverly and Reilly, who were waiting for New House of York 's keeper to throw the Quaffle out. That had been his initiatory goal of the match.

The Quaffle continued to substitute hands quickly as the mates went on. An hour later there was still no sign of the stoolpigeon and both teams were neck in neck as far as full stop went. New York was up by ten.

Albus scored a few to a greater extent finish and he began to relax a little. The match began to feel more like a school match and less like a professional mate, even though the stakes were still high school.

forest had repeated over and over again that they had to be up by at least fifty dollar bill points when Saint James caught the Snitch, or they would n't be able to overtake New York as far as overall degree went.

"New York 's searcher has seen the stoolie !"Smith announced.

Albus, who had been following one of New House of York 's chaser ( the one who had the Quaffle ), turned around and saw that their quester was making a beeline for the top of Hogwarts'middle goal.

James II noticed as well and flew straight at the ring. He had been significantly closer than New York 's Seeker and flew away from the hoop with the struggling snitch in his hand.

The crowd roared and James held the Snitch high above his head. Both team flew to the ground and Albus saw the pain feeling on Wood 's font. They had n't won by enough to be in irregular stead overall.

"I had no selection !"James shouted to him,"She was going to get it !"

Sir Henry Joseph Wood nodded in accord, but he still looked thwarted. Albus chose to ignore this and helped the residue of the team to lift James onto all of their shoulders.

"To update everyone on the head, the Australian School of black magic is in first place. New House of York and Hogwarts are currently tied for second. The future equal will take spot at the end of February !"smith told the crowd.

Albus did n't run across up with his ally until they were back in the commons room. teddy bear had gone to Hogsmeade and a party was currently underway in the Gryffindor park room. shimmy informed everyone that the three other houses were hosting parties as well. The students from New York who had been sorted into Gryffindor, including their Seeker, were sulking in a corner.

"I think that was your best match yet,"bathroom said to Albus as they settled down at their usual table.

"I think so, too,"Albus agreed,"I kind of compliments I could playact in the next match."

"Maybe Fielding will still be sick,"John said.

"doubt it,"Albus replied,"Plus, I 'm sure as shooting O'delle will get first dibs on the future match if any of the other chaser get sick."

"At least you got to play in one mates,"rose wine pointed out.

"Anyway, the next peer you 'll probably be playing Australia,"Matt said.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"If we win that one, it 'll be a miracle. But we 're not even playing in the future one. succeeding match is New York versus Australia."

The party continued until dinner party clock time, when people began to get out as cipher had snuck down to the kitchens to get food for thought. Harry came in to congratulate Albus and James shortly before Albus and his champion left for dinner. He was also scheduled to police the schooling for the remainder of the weekend and wanted to let his nipper know.

******

liveliness at Hogwarts returned to pattern shortly after the Quidditch lucifer. The Prophet printed fewer and fewer articles about Wisander until there were none at all. Everyone seemed to forget about his death. Everyone except Matt, that is, who was still worried about his dad.

However, the students at Hogwarts were reminded again of the unresolved murder when the next Hogsmeade tripper arrived two days after valentine 's Day. A part of the students were too lovesick to notice the boarded up shop of Dervish and Banges as they made their way to Madam Puddifoot's.

Neither Albus, Gospel According to John, or lusterlessness were too preoccupied to notice the abandoned building, though. The three of them stopped to face at it for a patch despite the biting wind. blush wine and Amanda were spending the day with Linda.

"Who owns it now ?"John asked as they looked at the empty building.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged,"The prophet never mentioned any family."

"It 's probably still part of the investigation,"flatness pointed out,"Plus, who would need a building that mortal was killed in ? I do n't even want to go in it."

Albus did n't think it was a skilful time to remind matte that Severus Snape had been murdered inside of the Shrieking Shack.

"commodity point,"Albus said,"But so far they have n't found anything."

"They wo n't find who it was,"John said quietly,"They never found out who killed Torro."

"I really hope they find who it was,"mat replied.

"They will,"Albus said,"They 're still focused on it."

Albus, Matt, and John went to the Three Broomsticks a little while later because all three of them were frozen. They warmed up with Butterbeer and were just thinking about heading back to the castle when Albus heard someone whisper his name behind him.

"Albus,"they said again.

Albus turned around, but no one was there. The voice sounded comrade, though. Albus slowly reached his hand out and it touched something firm, but it looked like no one was there.

"Kaden,"Albus groaned,"Is that you ?"

"Yeah,"Kaden whispered back,"I stole your cloak."

Albus immediately stood up and motioned for lustrelessness and John, who were both looking confused, to espouse him. He assumed Kaden would trace as well. Albus lead them up High Street until they reached the Shrieking hovel. nonentity was hanging around it that day.

"Kaden !"Albus seethed,"You do make how stupid this was."

"Yes,"Kaden replied as he took off the cloak.

"Bloody hell on earth !"John shouted.

"You stole the cloak ?"matt asked.

"Kaden, you idiot !"Albus shouted,"I know I first told you this would be a good time, but there was a cause I changed my creative thinker and told you not to filch in today. Most of the teachers come to Hogsmeade for the February trip. My cousin-german told me. They want to make for sure no one does anything stupid because they 're in sexual love or whatever."

"Er,"Kaden muttered.

"How did you get in ?"matte asked.

"One-eyed witch statue,"Kaden replied,"confidential information right into Honeyduke's."

"Kaden, do you know how difficult it 's going to be to get you back unnoticed ?"

Kaden 's face turned white and his mouth dropped out-of-doors. Albus turned around to see what he was looking at and was met face to cheek with Professor Balladanis.

"Quite hard, I 'd require,"Balladanis replied,"come with me, all of you."

Albus groaned inwardly as he followed Balladanis down the street. They had gone all year without Kaden getting them into worry, but Albus should have known better than to think they could go the all year.

nonentity spoke until they were shut in Balladanis 's subject field. Balladanis sat down in his president and looked at Kaden.

"Explain,"Balladanis said.

"They had cipher to do with it,"Kaden said quickly,"Albus was just telling me how stupid I was."

"Then it would seem that Mr. potter and I agree on something,"Balladanis replied,"Where 'd you get that cloak ?"

"It 's Albus 's,"Kaden said quietly,"I took it. He did n't give it to me to sneak in or anything."

"Very well,"Balladanis said,"Mr. potter, Mr. Eckerton, and Mr. Brickston, you may fall to your common room. Mr. Dursley will connect you after I arrange his detention."

Albus, flatness, and John could not get out of there quick enough. They walked straight back to the mutual room, talking about how lucky they had been. It must have looked like all three of them had helped Kaden pussyfoot into Hogsmeade. Good thing Balladanis believed Kaden.

Kaden returned fifteen min later, looking quite distressed. He collapsed onto a chair and stared mutinously at the table.

"detainment every Sat for the adjacent month,"Kaden muttered,"Plus he gave me a lecture about how life-threatening it was for me to lift out and if I did it again I 'd get a worse punishment than detainment. Did n't expound on that, though."

"He 'd probably get you kicked out,"John commented.

"Did he say what you have to do for detention ?"Albus asked.

"No,"Kaden said,"Guess it 'll be a surprise."

******

Kaden discovered what his detention was that night. Balladanis decided to own him alphabetize his private library, which was quite extensive. Kaden returned to the Marauder 's Den ranting about the amount of money of Word of God Balladanis had.

"He 's got more Quran on dark creatures than your dad 's got,"Kaden said to Matt.

"That 's telling,"Matt replied.

"Wish he had less,"Kaden muttered.

Kaden spent all four of his custody alphabetizing those books. He almost did n't finagle to finish and if that had been the event, Balladanis would have given him a fifth detention.

The following full moon came and went, as did the future Quidditch lucifer. Albus was beginning to suspect that the full moons were becoming worse for Matt, although he did n't know why.

New York lost miserably to Australia in the Quidditch compeer. They had been doing pretty well until Linda caught the Snitch a half time of day in. Wood insisted that this was a good matter, though. It meant that if Hogwarts managed to make a good amount of end before Linda caught the stoolie in their next match, they would have more overall peak than New York. Wood seemed to have lost any Hope that King James could beat Linda in seeking, something James fumed about on a near day-after-day basis.

MArch arrived and with it a three day rain violent storm that left the basis completely flooded. Both Herbology and care of Magical Creatures had to take situation inside, which resulted in incredibly deadening lessons. Wood continued to hold Quiditch practice and Albus returned to the palace completely soaked and covered in mud after each one.

All of the teacher were piling on the preparation and Professor Patil had even gone so far as to note the O.W.L.s even though they were a entirely two old age away. The solely teacher who was n't talking about the end of term exams was Professor Balladanis.

Balladanis conducted his moral as if end of term test did not exist. He changed nothing about his example except the benighted creature they were learning about.

"We 're starting vampires next week,"Balladanis announced at the end of category on Th,"Please read the chapter on them by Monday."

Albus could n't help but wait at Linda before he began packing up his things. He wondered if Balladanis would be teaching them enough about identifying vampires for anyone to figure out that Linda was one.

"So,"Saint John the Apostle said as he flipped through his defense reaction rule book the following eve. Albus, Matt, toilet, and Kaden were in the Marauder 's Den and Saint John was just finishing the chapter on vampires."Look what 's after vampires.

Albus looked through his own book."Werewolves,"he said quietly and then looked at Matt.

"Yeah,"Matt muttered,"It was bound to bechance eventually."

"I wonder if Balladanis is going to get you go in for extra aid during that whole,"John Lackland grinned,"I 'm sure you 'll necessitate loads of extra avail in identifying werewolves."

Matt rolled his optic."He better. It 'll look mistrustful if I do n't go in for duplicate supporter. speaking of extra assistant, we 're due to go in for it in XV minutes."

"We 'd better go then,"John said,"See you two later."

Albus managed to stop his Herbology homework while John and Matt were gone. Then it was time for him to go in for his dueling lessons.

The desks were n't pushed to the English of the classroom when Albus entered. Balladanis was seated behind his desk and there was a Harlan Fisk Stone drainage area sitting on it. Balladanis was pulling silvern string of something out of his head and placing them in the basin.

It was a pensieve and the cosmic string were storage, Albus realized. For a second, he thought that maybe Balladanis had cancelled dueling and neglected to tell him.

"Sir ?"Albus asked hesitantly.

"Mr. Potter,"Balladanis said quietly,"Come in."

Albus stood awkwardly next to one of the figurehead tabular array while he waited for Malfoy. Balladanis stared into the pensieve and acted like Albus was n't there. When Malfoy arrived, he looked up and stared at the two male child for a few minutes before speaking.

"We 're not dueling today,"he said,"Instead, I am going to show you something."He motioned for them to join him at his desk.

Albus glanced nervously at Malfoy. Balladanis was n't one for explanations, but Albus would suffer appreciated one justly then.

"This is a pensieve,"Balladanis said,"It is used to research memory board. That is exactly what we 're going to do. Albus, lean forward and put your head into the pensieve. Your body will comply. Scorpius, you will come. I will come after you."

Albus 's impulse sped up a little bit as he leaned over the pensieve. Was this a dolt estimation ? He did n't even know what he was getting into. But it was just a storage. nil could hurt him in a store, right ?

Albus took a deep breath and plunged his face into the pensieve. He had never been in one before. He landed on the hard Gunter Wilhelm Grass and looked around.

It was crepuscule and very silence. There was a pocket-sized house in the distance, atop of a jolty hill. In fact, the whole area was mostly rough. Albus had landed on the one lone piece of grass in the unanimous place. It did n't look like any place in Britain.

He stood up as Malfoy landed following to him, followed quickly by Balladanis. Balladanis landed on his understructure and they waited for Malfoy to get up.

"Follow me,"Balladanis said quietly.

Albus did so, but he still felt like he deserved an explanation. Where were they ? Why were they there ? Whose memory was this ? What did it stimulate to do with dueling ?

"Excuse me, Sir,"Malfoy said,"Where are we ?"

"Greece,"Balladanis replied.

This did nil but increase Albus 's curiosity. Why were they in Hellenic Republic of all position ? But he did n't ask. It did n't seem like Balladanis was in an explaining mood, judging by his myopic, one Son answer to Malfoy.

They walked quietly towards the small-scale sign of the zodiac. The lonesome noise was their pace. There were n't even any bird of night hooting or heel barking. It struck Albus as very odd.

The house must hold been their destination. Balladanis stopped when they arrived at the check down wooden fence surrounding it. The house reminded Albus of the screech Shack, only little. It was kind of break down downwardly and did n't reckon like a topographic point that would be beneficial to hold out in.

somebody lived there, though. A light was on upstairs. It remained on for a few more minutes and then someone turned it off.

Balladanis made no motility towards the sign. Instead, he seemed focused on the forest that lay just beyond it. Albus decided the woodland was as good a home as any to watch.

They watched the timber for a one-half an hr before anything happened. Then five hooded bod practically flew out of the forest. They were at the family before Albus even realized it. He looked at Balladanis. His aspect was hardened.

All was quiet for two minutes. The form entered the house, but did not turn on any lights. Then the screams started. Albus jumped at the strait of the firstly one.

They were agonizing, long sidesplitter. Albus wanted zip more than to go in and help whoever was screaming, but he knew he could n't. It was cypher Thomas More than a memory. Instead, he looked again at Balladanis.

His prof 's grimace showed nothing. Nothing but the Saami hardened look he had seen on it so many times. Malfoy on the early manus, looked horrified. He looked exactly how Albus felt.

The screaming was coming from two different the great unwashed. There was a high-pitched one that must have got been coming from a woman, and a small one that must have been coming from a man.

Then, they stopped. First the woman, then the man. The hooded number left the house as quickly as they had entered and returned to the forest.

Balladanis, however, made no relocation to leave. Instead he stared at the house. Two minutes later, mortal fled from it.

They ran from the business firm, towards Albus, Malfoy, and Balladanis. As they drew tight, Albus could see that the somebody was a boy who looked no sometime than Albus himself. His boldness was etched with a sadness Albus had never seen before. It was too blue to severalize, but Albus was sure enough there were crying running down his face.

The boy obviously did n't notice the three people watching him. He ran right past them, up the rocky hill in the length. It occurred to Albus after he passed that the boy looked somewhat familiar. There was something about his face that Albus recognized, but he could n't quite lieu it.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Professor Balladanis did n't say anything for a long sentence after he, Albus, and Malfoy returned to the defensive measure schoolroom. Albus landed following to Malfoy, still confused as to how he managed to get out of the pensieve, in front of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis landed behind his desk, facing the paries, and did n't become around for a few minutes.

Albus glanced nervously at his professor as he thought of questions he was just burning to ask. In fact, there was naught about the view he had just witnessed that did n't make Albus rummy. Everything about it had been confusing.

Malfoy looked just as confused. They kept looking at each other and it was form of strange. They were on the same side. Both of them wanted Balladanis to explicate.

Balladanis finally turned around and looked at them. He put his script on his desk and leaned forward, looking both Albus and Malfoy in the eye.

It happened in a split mo. Albus looked at his professor and immediately thought back to the aspect of the boy in the scene. That was why he looked familiar. The boy was Balladanis. Then, Balladanis shifted slightly and the likeness was gone. But Albus knew it. That scenery had been from Balladanis 's childhood.

"Sit down,"Balladanis said.

Albus and Malfoy sat down quickly at the mesa in front of Balladanis 's desk. They were sitting right next to each other and Albus did n't worry. At the mo, finding out what that shot was was more authoritative than staying away from Malfoy.

"A few weeks ago you asked me what I did before I started teaching here, Mr. Potter,"Balladanis began,"I have always had the intention of telling you, of telling both of you. I was merely waiting for the correctly moment. I feel that that mo is now."

Balladanis paused and walked around to the strawman of his desk. He began to rate in front line of it.

"There is a reason why I am telling you this now. Why I am not explaining to all of my classes what I did before teaching. The reasonableness is that you two are incredible duelers. Both of you have acquisition beyond your years that I have never seen before, and believe me, I have seen plenty of exceptional duelers in my time. This may be a commodity time to tell you how rarified it is to have two such skilled duelers in the same year at Hogwarts."

Albus turned to face at Malfoy. What was Balladanis getting at ? It sounded like the scratch line of some sort of sign of the zodiac single speech or something.

"I know the two of you are n't the best of Friend,"Balladanis continued,"But I must say how impressed I am that you seem to put the animosity behind you when you step into my classroom for your lessons."

The sole reason for that, at to the lowest degree for Albus, was because of Balladanis himself. Albus doubted he would tolerate Albus and Malfoy bickering with each former during lessons.

"cover to what I was going to tell you,"Balladanis said,"That setting that I just showed you, in causa you have not figured it out yet, took place while I was a boy of only long dozen. It was the summer before my tierce year at school.

"I grew up in Greece, in that very house we just saw. My parents, although they loved me deeply, were very poor and could barely afford to put food for thought on the table. I think they were grateful when I went away to school, the sole reason being that they would n't accept to worry about me getting enough to eat.

"I had two blissfully unacquainted and fun years at the Grecian School of Magic. I returned home during summer full of write up about my admirer and all the devilry we 'd become into."

Albus found it difficult to envisage Balladanis getting into worry at schooling or doing anything fun in general.

"Everything changed the summertime before my third year. It changed on the night you just witnessed. A coven of vampires entered my house that night. They attacked my parents and booze them dry. I hid in a closet, too scared to do anything. Then, once the vampires left, I fled. I ran until I could not run anymore. I wound up at the home of one of my friends. His parents took me in, but things were obviously never the Same. I changed on that night."

Balladanis stopped talking and Albus sat in complete shock. Balladanis 's parents had been murdered by vampires ? That was one thing that had never crossed Albus 's idea.

"I returned to school that Sep hardened. Nothing was fun anymore. Nothing was funny. It was then that I decided to devote my life to ridding the reality of such evils. vampire, dark wizards, lycanthrope, anyone and anything that murders viciously."

Albus could n't assist but glare at Balladanis when he mentioned wolfman. Balladanis seemed to notice this and gave Albus the slightest of smiles.

"However, I did realize that not all vampires, werewolf, giants, and former beings are inherently evil. Not all of them want to defeat. It was for this reason that I did not wish to be employed by the Hellenic Ministry. The Hellenic language Ministry prefers to deal with wizardly creatures as a unit and not recognize between them. Perhaps this is because Hellenic Republic has a very tumid population of vampires.

"thus, becoming an Auror was out of the question. Instead, I chose to accede a more secretive professing. One that you will not witness tract on when you get career advice from your heading of house. One that no one except me is going to suggest to you. Yet it is one that I believe the two of you are quite suited for."

Albus 's heart sped up at this. Balladanis was going to give them career advice ? They were only baker's dozen. But at the same fourth dimension, Albus felt excited. Balladanis thought he was a secure enough duellist for this career, whatever it was.

"I am a Presuler,"Balladanis said,"I am certainly neither of you have heard of one. A Presuler is somewhat like an Auror, in that we seek out gloomy wizards and dark conjuration. However, we not only seek out dark thaumaturgist and grim conjuring trick, we seek out shadow and dangerous creatures as well.

"The biggest departure is that Presulers are not employed by the Ministry. There are very few Presulers in the humans and we are often sought out by various Ministries and hired on an as-needed basis. We travel from country to country, whenever we are needed. It is quite close. I suppose Presulers are a combining of Aurors and private investigators."

Balladanis was right in that Albus had never heard of a Presuler before. The approximation intrigued him, though. A secretive form of Auror who did not work for the Ministry.

"I never caught the lamia who killed my parents. I have met one vampire who knew them, but she is not like them. I am still searching for them, however."

Balladanis stopped pacing and leaned up against the front of his desk. He looked at Albus and Malfoy, but did not say anything else.

"Why are you teaching here, then ?"Malfoy asked.

"That is one thing that is between myself and Professor Kendrick,"Balladanis replied.

"Are you coming back succeeding yr ?"Malfoy asked.

"As of right now, I have no estimation,"Balladanis answered,"It is getting late. I 've kept you here much longer than normal. If you think of anymore enquiry, do not waver to see me. I 'll walk you back to your common rooms."

Albus walked alongside Balladanis in silence on his way back to the Gryffindor Tower. His nous was racing with what he just learned. He did n't sleep with what to pass water of it. It was just so much data at once.

The rough-cut room was nearly empty when Albus climbed through the portrait hole. It must take been really late, since it was Friday night. Albus really did n't know what time it was.

"There you are !"Rose shouted,"Merlin, you 've been gone for 60 minutes !"

"What did he cause you doing ?"Matt asked.

"I 'll state you tomorrow,"Albus muttered, realizing that all he wanted to do was lay in his bed and retrieve about what Balladanis had just said.

Albus was vaguely aware of his friends sighs of letdown as he went up to his dormitory, but he did n't feel like talking about it right then. He was tired and his judgement was racing at the same clock time.

Albus tossed and turned the entire night. He alternated thinking about what he had seen in the pensieve and about becoming a Presuler himself. Then he wound up thinking about Linda and what Balladanis persuasion of her. He had said he did n't withstand a score against lamia that did n't drink down people, but who knew what he really thought.

Was Linda the vampire he had met who knew the vampires who killed his parents ? It was potential since lamia never aged. Or maybe she was a completely unlike vampire. Albus wondered how many vampires Balladanis knew.

Eventually Albus fell into a uneasy sleep, but his dreams were plagued by what he had seen in the pensieve.

******

"Merlin, Albus, get up !"

Albus rolled over in his bed and put his pillow over his head. After waking up drenched in sweat at four in the morning after a nightmare in which his whole sept had been killed by vampire, he had finally drifted off into a somewhat in good order eternal sleep. One that he wished he was still in.

"It 's nearly one o'clock."

"He 's like you are after replete moons."

"Shut it. Seriously, Albus, get up."

"Yeah, we want to cognise what happened conclusion night."

Someone pulled the curtains unresolved and took the pillow off Albus 's principal. He looked up and saw John and Matt.

"Did you lose to Malfoy or something ?"John asked,"Because that would stool me want to hole up in bed for the day."

"No, it 's not that,"Albus muttered,"I 'll tell you, but I 'm only explaining it once, so one of you serious find oneself Rose, Amanda, and Kaden. And I 'll say you in the Marauder 's Den because there is no way Linda can be around to hear this."

The little girl and Kaden met them in the Marauder 's Den after Albus, John, and Matt had lunch. John kept pestering Albus all through lunch, wanting to have a go at it why Linda could n't hear about it, but Albus said cypher. He was n't even sure enough if he was allowed to separate his Quaker about this, but Balladanis had n't really forbidden him.

"Albus, what in the epithet of Merlin happened last night ?"rosiness asked as soon as they were all in the piranha 's Den.

"Balladanis told us what he did before he started teaching at Hogwarts,"Albus said quietly.

"And you neglected to tell us until now ?"John gaped,"I 've been wanting to make out for the entire twelvemonth !"

"I know, John,"Albus snapped,"But it 's not anything what you 'd think."

"Sorry,"John muttered.

"Balladanis took us into a pensieve concluding night,"Albus began.

"Really ?"pink wine looked impress,"What was that like ?"

"Not that majuscule, to be true,"Albus said,"Probably would have been better if it was a better memory.

"Anyway, he took us without any explanation of what we were going to see. He took us to this really old broken down house in Hellenic Republic. form of looked like a small more run-down version of the Shrieking Shack."

"In Greece ?"Kaden asked.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"We watched the firm for what seemed ilk time of day and then these figures broke into it and we heard this awe-inspiring shriek. Then the figures left. Then this feller who was about our age came running out with this ugly pall spirit on his face. Then we left."

"What does that have anything to do with what Balladanis does for a living ?"John asked.

"Everything,"Albus sighed,"That had been his house. The screams were his parents. The boy was him. He told us this after. His parents were killed by a coven of vampires."

nobody said anything for a farseeing time. Albus looked at his supporter and they all wore compeer feel of shock.

"And you watched it ?"lustrelessness asked.

"From a aloofness,"Albus replied.

"Merlin, no marvel Balladanis is so bloody insane,"John the Divine let out a low whistle.

"He decided to devote his life sentence to ridding the world of evil, whether it be lamia, dark champion, or other dark tool,"Albus continued.

"So he 's an Auror ?"pink wine asked.

"No,"Albus shook his head,"He 's a Presuler."

"What is that ?"Kaden asked.

"It 's like an Auror, only they go after dark tool, too. And they are n't employed by the Ministry. They 're hired by Ministries all around the world. They 're research worker as well. Apparently it 's all very close,"Albus explained.

"Wow,"John said,"I thought he was an Auror or something."

"Me, too,"Matt agreed,"Instead he just hunts down vampire. And, werewolves."

"Only ones that kill citizenry,"Albus assured his lycanthropic friend.

"All werewolves have the capability of killing masses, Albus,"Matt said quietly.

"So does everyone,"Albus replied.

"Whatever his sight on vampires and werewolves truly is, it 's going to be worry to see how he teaches us about them,"Rose mused.

"Guess this is why you did n't want Linda to find out about this,"John Lackland said.

"Yeah,"Albus replied,"Apparently he still has n't found the vampires who killed his parents, but he knows a lamia who knows them. That lamia does n't vote out people. I wonder if it 's Linda."

"Who knows ?"Rose shrugged,"I doubt we 'll ever find out."

"Oh, I 've got to enjoin you what he said after he told us all of this,"Albus took a rich breathing time,"He thinks Malfoy and I should go Presulers."

"Seriously ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Yeah, because we 're good duelers,"Albus explained,"But I do n't know."

"You do n't have to bang. You 're only xiii. And Albus, do n't settle anything until you 've read about this. Do n't just go on what Balladanis is saying. I think we 've finally discovered why he 's so passionate about fighting the Dark artistic production, but it might haze over his judgement sometimes,"rosebush warned.

"I know, that 's what I do n't get,"Albus said,"Why is he telling us this now ?"

"Maybe because he does n't contrive on staying,"Matt replied,"Why would he arrest searching for the vampires who killed his parents to teach here anyway ?"

"Malfoy asked,"Albus told him,"But he would n't enjoin us. He said it 's between him and Kendrick."

"Because that 's not suspicious or anything,"King John rolled his eyes,"There 's still something funny about Balladanis."

"What are you going to do, Albus ?"Matt asked.

"I 'm not deciding anything now,"Albus replied,"I 'm just not going to think about it."

******

Not thinking about Presulers and what happened to Balladanis 's parents proved to be easier said than done, especially since Department of Defense class was soon devoted to learning about vampires. Balladanis seemed to teach that particular unit with much More enthusiasm than usual, a exploit that nonentity thought potential. Everyone speculated as to why Balladanis was more enthusiastic than usual, but virtually just attributed it to the fact that he was bloody insane.

A lot of what Balladanis taught about vampires was hooey Albus already knew due to what Matt had told them earlier in the school yr. It was still fairly interesting, though. Albus found that the more grave the fauna they were learning about, the more interesting it was. Not to mention the fact that they did n't use the anamatek anymore, a fact that nearly every student was grateful for.

However, partway through their second week devoted to vampire, the anamatek 's torso reappeared in the Defense classroom. There was an audible groan from every student who stepped into the room.

"If that thing turns into a lamia, I think I 'm going to get up and leave,"can seethed as they took their seats.

"Maybe we 're moving onto another animate being,"Albus suggested even though he knew the probability were slim to none.

"That would n't be any better. We 're doing wolfman next,"Saint John reminded him,"And matt said that thing could n't turn into an real werewolf. Speaking of Matt, he 's prosperous he 's missing this."

"I think he 'd say otherwise,"Albus replied. The full moonshine had been the old night.

"Quiet,"Balladanis said,"We 'll be continuing our vampire lesson today. Today I wish to show you what a vampire looks like, which is why I have brought back the anamatek. However, you will not be fighting it. None of you have the skills necessity to agitate a vampire."

"He 's mental,"John muttered.

Balladanis drew his scepter and pointed it at the trunk. It snapped open and out stepped a very pale man with chiseled feature of speech. He did n't be active, but merely stared out at all the students.

"Vampires are the unadulterated predator,"Balladanis announced,"They 're incredibly fast,"he pointed his wand at the vampire and it disappeared.

It reappeared in the back of the schoolroom, but it had not Apparated. The lamia had moved so fasting that Albus had missed it in the blink of an eye.

"They 're agile,"Balladanis continued,"They 're good looking. They attract you in. Then they kill, they suck you dry until you are short. The alternative is not great, either. From the moment their teeth get around your hide, you begin to transform into a vampire as well. You will get one if they do not suck you dry. There is no way to stop it, no potion to subvert it.

"Vampires hunt club at night when their vision is still excellent, but when human vision is compromised. However, that is not the only reason. Does anyone roll in the hay the other ?"

Rose raised her hand. Linda did not.

"Yes, Miss Weasley ?"Balladanis said.

"Vampires are in pith allergic to the sun,"Rose explained,"When the sunlight hits them, it hurts them. The sun gives them worry and makes them finger sick."

"Precisely,"Balladanis gave her a rare smile,"There is no potion to weaken the gist of the sun on vampires. Therefore they tend to inhabit expanse that see less sun and country of dense forest, such as the Northwestern and Northeastern United body politic, parts of Canada, and parts of Russia. However there is also a significant vampire population in Greece."

Balladanis pointed his wand at the vampire again and it retreated back into the proboscis. Everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief. The lesson continued until the bell rang. Balladanis made no mention of moving onto the succeeding whole, nor had he assigned the common end of the building block essay.

Albus and his friends went to visit Matt late that dark after Albus got out of Quidditch praxis. They only had a half time of day or so until curfew, but they had n't visited at all yet.

"You missed an first-class Defense example today,"St. John said once Madam Pomfrey had gone back into her study after leaving to see who had entered her ward.

"Was it any different from the usual ones ?"lustrelessness asked tiredly. He looked set to light asleep at any moment.

"Balladanis brought back the anamatek,"Albus told him.

"He what ?"Matt shouted, although since his voice was hoarse it was n't very tatty,"We 're still doing vampires, are n't we ?"

"Yeah, he had it deform into a vampire,"John the Evangelist said,"We did n't have to fight it. He just used it to present how dissolute vampires were and what they looked like."

"That is weird,"matt replied,"He assign the vampire essay yet ?"

"Nope,"John shook his head,"I think we 're in for a few more days of vampires."

"well, the longer we spend on vampires, the more prison term we have before we start werewolf,"Matt said quietly,"I really hope he does n't spend as much time on them as he has on vampires."

"I do n't think he will,"Albus said,"His parents were n't killed by werewolves."

"Thank Merlin for that,"matte yawned.

"You 're tired,"Rose said,"We should leave."

"We 'll be back tomorrow after tiffin,"Albus told him,"dear night."

"'Night,"Matt said.

They left the ward just as Madam Pomfrey was coming out of her sketch, presumably to tell them to leave and cave in Matt Sir Thomas More potions. Albus and his friends headed straight for the unwashed room, where they got started on all the preparation that had been piled on them that day.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



A few of Albus 's cousins had begun to acquire up bets on how longsighted Balladanis was going to spend teaching the third year about vampire. Fred was sure he 'd spend the remainder of terminus, but Omar Nelson Bradley was convinced he 'd be active onto the next unit partway through April. None of the tertiary long time were actually participating in these bet because they were all afraid Balladanis would find out.

The vampire whole was still well underway when the next Quidditch match came along. This one was the second Hogwarts versus Australian schoolhouse of Sorcery match, which meant Natalie Wood was in his bloom when it came to practice. Albus considered just moving his bed to the changing rooms since he spent more of his time on the Quidditch rake than in the Gryffindor common room.

Albus awoke the day of the equal to John the Evangelist 's tacky swearing instead of shift, which told him that he did not have to bet during that match. He could n't help but feel slightly disappoint. Figuring there was no full stop in going back to slumber, he got up and asked John what happened.

"Tripped over matte 's bloody cauldron,"John muttered, holding onto his right foot,"Why ca n't he just put that stupe thing away ?"

"Like you always do ?"Albus smirked and gestured to John 's own cauldron, which was sitting only a few fundament away from Matt's.

John muttered something identical and shoved his caldron under his bed. He went into the bathroom while Albus woke lustrelessness up. The three of them met Kaden in the plebeian way a little while later and then went down to the Great entrance hall to get something to eat.

A few hours later the boy were in the Quidditch stands, waiting for the match to get down. Rose and Amanda were with them.

"Wonder how tenacious it 'll take Linda to find the snitcher this prison term,"Albus mused.

"I 'm betting on ten minutes,"whoremaster said,"Hey, remember that meter we eavesdropped on Killigan ?"

"Yeah,"Albus replied,"Was n't Linda supposed to get going flying irksome after that ?"

"That 's what I thought,"John shrugged,"But she did n't during the last match."

"She probably wo n't this time, either,"Matt put in,"I mean, think about it, if James could fly that fasting, would he really slow down to a normal speed ?"

"Definitely not,"Albus sighed.

Matt 's prediction proved correct. Linda did not slow down in the slightest. She flew at her common abnormally fast speed, beating Jesse James to the sneaker by a few yards. Luckily for Hogwarts, they had been ahead of Australia at that tip and only wound up losing by forty level.

This put Hogwarts quite a bit ahead of New House of York as far as Quidditch points went. Australia was still in the lead, but they were not faring so well in the dueling tourney. As of the most Holocene epoch tournament, Hogwarts was winning. Australia was in last berth and New York was somewhere in between. Albus was pretty for certain that if the Quidditch and dueling tourney peak were added up, Hogwarts and Australia would be neck in neck. Whatever the outcome of the remaining qualifying tournaments and couple, the final exam for both were going to determine the winner of the rivalry. The head were just too close.

Although there was obviously no solemnization in the Gryffindor uncouth way after the catch, nobody was particularly cast down either. Albus figured this was because nobody had really expected Hogwarts to win anyway.

******

Two week into April, Bradley along with quite a few early older Gryffindors, were able to cash in on their bets about Balladanis. Fred and a few others grumbled loudly about it as they handed over Galleons to the winners.

Balladanis had assigned the recollective awaited essay on vampires on Thursday, officially making the vampire unit the longest whole they had done. They had spent an stallion month and a half on it. The essay seemed to meet this length, as Balladanis wanted it to be two and a half feet.

Albus, Matt, and St. John saved their essays for the last possible bit, settling down to work on them the day before they were due. It was n't a particularly hard essay because Balladanis had given them so lots data on the subject. It was just a very long essay to write. Rose and Amanda had done theirs over the weekend, presumably with Linda. Albus could n't help oneself but be slightly envious of them because doing the essay with an actual lamia would seduce it the soft essay ever.

"Bet Linda 's glad this whole 's over,"Albus said as they worked on their essays in the Marauder 's Den Monday evening.

"She is,"rose answered,"She hated every minute of those deterrent example. Ca n't say I blame her."

"How long is your essay, rose ?"King John asked as he measured his own essay.

"trine pes,"Rose answered.

trick groaned."Do you guess Balladanis will notice if mine 's three in short ?"

"Yes,"Rose said,"If there 's any essay he 'll be extremely picky about, it 'll be this one."

"Maybe if we do n't wind up it we can just skitter class tomorrow,"Matt muttered,"After all, I would n't need to establish up in socio-economic class without the essay done."

"But it 'll be regretful when you finally do go to class,"rosiness pointed out.

"I still do n't particularly want to go to division tomorrow,"lusterlessness said,"Whether I 've finished the essay or not."

"You 're going to finish it,"Rose told him,"You 've got two column inch left."

"Finished,"Albus announced.

"Excellent,"lavatory said as he grabbed Albus 's essay,"I 'll copy scrap of yours."

"You know,"Albus said quietly,"nonentity found out about Linda being a vampire even after we 've spent a month and a half on them. I do n't think anyone 's going to feel out you 're a werewolf just because we 're learning about them."

"I know, I 've just got a bad tactile sensation about it,"Matt sighed.

"Look on the bright side,"Kaden put in,"When you get assigned the lycanthrope essay, you 're sure to get a 100."

"I do n't really care about the essay,"Matt said flatly.

Both Matt and John managed to finish their essays before curfew and they returned to Gryffindor tower, and they soon went to bed. Albus did n't think lusterlessness slept much, though. He heard him tossing and turning all night.

Albus, matt, and lav got a late offset since John had misplaced his vampire essay. After finding it under his bed ( no one was sure how it go there ), the three son rushed down to the Great student residence to grab pieces of pledge before running to Defense.

They walked into the room right on time and barely had a hazard to pick up their breath before Balladanis asked for everyone to hand in their vampire essays. Albus passed his essay up and pulled out parchment and a quill.

"Well, our unit on lamia is over,"Balladanis said once everyone had handed in their essays,"I trust you have all read the chapter on werewolves for today ? If you had for some ground decided not to do that, I highly suggest doing it tonight."

Balladanis began his common pacing in forepart of the classroom. He stopped in front of rose and Linda 's table and then stared out at the class.

"I thought I would begin with lycanthrope history,"he announced,"Nobody is surely when the get-go werewolf came about, but they have existed in nearly every wizarding culture. Not only that, but even ancient Muggle polish have lycanthropy in their histories.

"Hundreds of yr ago, before the Muggle field of psychological science came about and long before Muggles had any discernment of the homo mind, they tried to make sense of people whom they deemed 'insane'.

"One way they did this was to attribute the insanity to the moon. Over the years, the myth of werewolves came about. Thus, lycanthrope have had a significant role in Muggle stories. In realness, the hoi polloi Muggles accused of having lycanthropy were merely suffering from schizophrenia or bouts of insanity."

Albus frantically tried to drop a line everything down. He knew absolutely nothing about the Muggle panorama of lycanthropy. He glanced at Matt and saw that he was n't writing anything down, but his hand was shaking.

"Muggles of course know cypher about real werewolves,"Balladanis continued,"And their Hollywood created werewolves have little in common with the real matter.

"Werewolves are plagued with the sickness lycanthropy. Does anyone know what that means ?"

Rose was the just one who raised her bridge player. Balladanis nodded to her."It comes from the Greek lyric 'lykos'and 'anthropos',"rosebush explained,"Lykos means wolf and anthropos means man."

"Very unspoiled,"Balladanis replied,"Lycanthropy refers to the disease and those who have it are called loup-garou.

"wolfman have been shunned by wizarding society for as long as story has told us about them. In Recent epoch years, there has been lots supposition about whether this is necessary or even a near thought. However, it is hard to change the judgment of the majority when we have been taught to avoid lycanthropes and shun them from wizarding society for so long.

"It has not been for no reason that this general prejudice has came about. When in wolf variety, lycanthrope can not keep in line their action mechanism and thus assail helpless people. This has long been construed as lycanthropes wanting to attack mass, wanting to taint them with the frightful disease.

"This can not be farther from the lawsuit when it comes to most wolfman. Most do not wish to attack others. Within the preceding hundred year, lycanthropes have begun locking themselves up on the full moon Sun Myung Moon in order to avoid attacking others. However, there is one significant drawback to this for the lycanthrope. Does anyone know this ?"Balladanis 's heart rested on Matt, but he continued staring down at his empty parchment.

Rose and Linda raised their hands. This clock time Balladanis called on Linda."When werewolf do n't experience anybody to attack, they attack themselves,"Linda said,"They do n't have a choice and they often wind up really injure because of it."

Balladanis took Linda 's thought further, but Albus did n't get a line what he said because Matt had knocked over Albus 's ink. He looked incredibly nervous and Albus was happy that the class was almost over. He quickly cleaned up the ink and tried to pay attending to the relaxation of the lecture.

"We 'll pick up next grade with what happens before, during, and after wide-cut moon for a person with lycanthropy,"Balladanis announced shortly before the bell rang,"If you have not read the loup-garou chapter, please do so for next clock time. Mr. Eckerton, if you could please come see me."

matt looked, if it was possible, even more spooky at this candidate. The rest of the stratum left and Albus tried to put away his thing as slowly as possible, but Balladanis shooed him, along with lavatory, out of the room.

Malfoy was standing outside the schoolroom when Albus and whoremonger left. He had a slight smirk on his face.

"Interesting lesson, ceramist,"Malfoy said quietly,"Very occupy indeed."

"What do you want, Malfoy ?"Albus asked, knowing perfectly well what he wanted.

"Oh, nix. Just a very illuminating lesson. I 've learned so much,"Malfoy replied and then sauntered off down the corridor.

"Falco columbarius,"lavatory muttered,"He knows."

"If he does n't yet, he 'll bang after succeeding moral. He 's onto it, that 's for sure as shooting,"Albus said.

"Onto it ?"john replied,"That 's a squeamish way of putting it. The entirely schooling 's going to bonk in two twenty-four hour period, after the next class."

"What are we going to do ?"Albus groaned,"If we tell him what Malfoy said, he 's going to be too scared to do anything. I mean, did you see him during this example ?"

"Yeah,"can nodded,"We ca n't differentiate him. Whatever Malfoy 's going to do, he 's going to do it whether matt knows about it or not."

"I agree,"Albus nodded,"We wo n't tell."

"What are you two talking about ?"matt appeared behind them, looking no skillful than he had before.

"cipher,"John said,"What did Balladanis require ?"

"Told me I did n't consume to go to the supererogatory help during this unit unless I wanted to,"Matt told them.

"What are you going to do ?"lavatory asked.

"I do n't know,"matte said as they began walking to Herbology,"I know it 'll look shady if I do n't, but I really ca n't take many more moral like that. Merlin, Thursday 's moral is going to be awful."

Albus saw no point in denying that. Matt did n't have a clue as to how awful it would be. They said nothing more about it the altogether way to Herbology.

******

Albus had never been so happy about having ridiculously long Quidditch practice as he was Tues and Wednesday eventide. He was perfectly well-chosen to spend all his relinquish clock time on the Quidditch pitch and then be too sap to do much of anything else afterwards.

It was just so difficult for him to keep what Malfoy said away from Matt. He wanted nil more than to warn his friend about it, even though he knew that would accomplish nothing. All it would do was construct Matt concern even more and then act even more anxious during Defense.

Quidditch also kept Albus 's judgment off of what would happen after Malfoy 's suspicions were confirmed. It would n't be anything like when Albus found out or even when Kaden found out. No, Malfoy was going to use this to his advantage. Albus was nearly one hundred percent sure Malfoy would annunciate it to all of Slytherin. Then, Logos would spread and the intact school would find out. pigeon hawk only knew what would happen when pupil'parents found out.

Albus knew that werewolf rightfield had come a long way since teddy bear 's dad was in shoal, but he also knew that well-nigh hoi polloi would not be felicitous if their shaver were going to shoal with a werewolf, especially one that did not take Wolfsbane. Not to mention the field day the press would accept with it. flatness 's dad had just become headspring of the section for the regulation and Control of Magical Creatures for Merlin 's rice beer. It would be a repetition of what had happened when lustrelessness and his family had lived in Australia.

Not to advert what it would do to Matt himself. Albus remembered when there had been a slight luck that Malfoy found out about the passage under the Whomping Willow. He had nearly had a affright onset. What would bump if Malfoy found out he was a werewolf ?

It did not facilitate that the wide-cut moon was that Fri. Matt barely spoke during the brief times that Albus was not occupied on the Quidditch pitch. He sat in the Marauder 's Den with everyone else, but he stared off into space or slept.

Yes, Wood 's foresightful Quidditch pattern took Albus 's head off of all of that, but they did not stop Thursday from arriving and sooner than Albus would have liked he found himself sitting in Balladanis 's classroom.

Albus and toilet exchanged neural coup d'oeil as Malfoy walked in with a very smug look on his face. Albus was so focused on Malfoy that he nearly missed the fact that the anamatek 's tree trunk was back in front of Balladanis 's desk. Once he noticed it, he poked John in the side.

"What ?"John seethed. Albus gestured to the trunk."Merlin 's byssus,"John exclaimed,"I do n't even want to know what he 's going to do with that."

"quiet down,"Balladanis said,"We 'll stay our wolfman treatment today by talking about what happens to a werewolf when the moon waxes.

"Werewolves, in a similar way to lamia, are somewhat allergic to the moonlight when the moon waxes. For the few night before the actual full lunation, when exposed to moonlight wolfman will experience ill. The moonlight gives them concern and when exposed long enough, causes them to miss consciousness."

Albus did n't bother writing any of this down, as he knew first hand what happened when a wolfman was exposed to too much moonshine shortly before the full moonlight. Instead he stole quick glances at Malfoy and Matt. Malfoy was furiously writing down everything Balladanis said and stealing straightaway glance at lustrelessness himself. Matt was staring down at his sheepskin and Albus was for certain he was trying to dismiss everything Balladanis said. He was pale and ill, but Albus was n't sure if that was because of the deterrent example or because the full moon was the next day.

"wolfman are often too ill to go about their daily activeness the day of the to the full moon and occasionally the day before as well. Before I describe the literal transformation, I wish to express you what a person with lycanthropy looking like the day of the broad moon."

For a brief indorsement, Albus thought Balladanis was going to prognosticate Matt to the battlefront of the way, but then realized that as a professor, Balladanis must have promised Kendrick that he would n't do anything like that.

Balladanis pointed his scepter at the proboscis and a modest man stepped out of it. His pallor looked exactly like matt 's and he looked just as ill. In fact, the two of them looked incredibly alike. Both of their faces bore scars and had a sickly looking at to them.

Balladanis began to talk about what the anamatek looked like, but Albus paid no attending. Instead he looked to Malfoy. Malfoy stared at the anamatek for a moment or so with electric shock and then he glanced at Matt. Finally, he met Albus 's gaze and Albus saw the self-aggrandising smirk he had ever seen on the Slytherin 's human face. That was it. Albus knew it. Malfoy had made the connection.

The oddment of the moral passed by in a form of fog for Albus. He and John had exchanged coup d'oeil and the smell on toilet 's cheek told him he had noticed Malfoy 's realisation as well. Albus heard Balladanis 's talking to, but he did n't work on it.

The lesson seemed to drag on and f number by at the Same time. Albus wanted it to be over so he could get out of there, but at the Saame clock time he did not want to get laid what was going to come about after.

"Next example will focus on Wolfsbane Potion and the impression it has had on werewolf rights,"Balladanis announced at the end of the deterrent example,"category dismissed."

Albus and John looked at each former. Albus did n't eff what to do. Should he confront Malfoy ? Or should he tell Matt what happened ? flatness seemed forgetful to the unanimous thing.

They silently decided just to leave the classroom and resolve what to do after. rose wine and Amanda had left with Linda with absolutely no idea what had happened.

Malfoy was waiting for them outside the elbow room and Albus was not certain if this was a adept or a bad affair. He had the sudden urge just to hex Malfoy right then and there.

"Another enlightening lesson,"Malfoy smirked,"Oh, Eckerton, feeling a bit ill ?"

"None of your business,"Matt muttered. Albus and trick both stepped a bit closer to him and Albus clenched his deal around his wand.

"Bet you 'll be feeling even worse tomorrow,"Malfoy replied,"It 's about that meter of the calendar month, is n't it ? Tomorrow Night ?"

That got flatness 's tending. His head snapped up and he glared at Malfoy. Then he turned around and looked from Albus to John with the most panicked expression on his grimace Albus had ever seen.

"It 's going to be a fun good moon, is n't it ?"Malfoy whispered, just brassy enough for lusterlessness, Albus and John to hear.

mat did n't say anything. He shook his head and then ran. He pushed through the crowd, much to the dislike of the students who were trying to get to class, and disappeared in a matter of seconds.

Albus suddenly felt more hatred for Malfoy than ever. Not only had he worked out lustrelessness 's closed book, but he had used it to scare him. In marrow, Malfoy had threatened him with it. That was one of the tough things he could have done.

Ignoring all the early educatee who were going to class, Albus pulled out his wand and had it against Malfoy 's chest in two seconds.

"If you tell anyone,"Albus growled,"I will personally earn sure enough you 're so indistinguishable that even your own parents wo n't recognize you."

"Is that a threat, Potter ?"Malfoy pulled out his own wand.

"You need me to write it out for you ?"Albus asked,"I think we 're about to incur out just how practically safe I am at dueling than you are."

"Rictumsempra !"Malfoy shouted.

"Protego !"Albus shouted at the like time.

"Expelliarmus !"Saint John shouted.

The crowd moved away so that there was a circle of looker-on surrounding the duel. Albus ignored them. It was just him, St. John, and Malfoy. And Malfoy was outnumbered.

Malfoy deflected toilet 's disarmament go and dig another tour at Albus. It bounced off Albus 's shield and hit a nearby portrait. The portraiture 's occupant shouted in disgust and moved into her neighbor 's frame.

Albus concentrated on his shield good luck charm and glared at Malfoy."Petrificus Totalus !"he shouted through his shield.

Grateful for Balladanis 's dueling object lesson, Albus watched as his shield held up while the hex shot at Malfoy. Unfortunately, Malfoy dodged it and sent a tickling jinx at John.

This one hit bathroom and he collapsed onto the floor in a fit of giggles. Albus shot another hex at Malfoy and this one collided with his fount. Malfoy 's nozzle started hemorrhage and he rounded on Albus.

"What is going on out here ?"Balladanis shouted.

Albus did n't lower his wand and neither did Malfoy, but they did n't fire off anymore curse either. Albus let his shield down and noticed that the bunch had dispersed. John was still rolling around on the ground.

Balladanis pointed his wand at Saint John and bathroom immediately stopped giggling and stood up.

"Follow me,"Balladanis growled.

All three son followed Balladanis into his written report. Albus looked nervously at John. Of all the professor to catch them dueling, it had to be Balladanis. Of course, the one good thing about this was that Malfoy could n't announce Matt 's lycanthropy to the full school while Balladanis was lecturing them.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John sat as far away as possible from Malfoy in Balladanis 's study. Balladanis just stared at them before speaking.

"I can not get to tell you how let down I am in all of you,"Balladanis began,"Especially you, Mr. potter and Mr. Malfoy. I am sure I taught you practiced than this. The two of you especially should know how uncalled for that was. You are well cognisant of your dueling acquirement and what form of obligation lies with them. I have half a mind to quit our training academic term. However, I am willing to try all sides of this story before laying out any sort of punishment. You may go first, Mr. Malfoy."

"I was just walking to year and Potter pulled out his sceptre and attacked me. Then Brickston joined in. I was outnumbered, sir. I had to fight myself,"Malfoy said.

Albus had to try hard not to take a hit. He and John looked at each early and Saint John the Apostle rolled his eyes.

"Very well,"Balladanis said,"Mr. Potter, if you please."

Albus took a mysterious breath. He was going to tell the tarradiddle. The whole taradiddle."Malfoy was threatening lustrelessness, sir,"Albus began.

"Mr. Eckerton ?"Balladanis asked,"I did not see him anywhere."

"He left after Malfoy threatened him,"Albus continued,"You see, Malfoy has figured something out about matte, after listening to your lectures on werewolves."

Balladanis 's eyes widened and he looked at Malfoy."Is that truthful, Mr. Malfoy ?"

"Yes,"Malfoy muttered,"And I was n't threatening him. I was asking him about it. I think I have the right to bang if I 'm in school with a werewolf."

Malfoy said 'werewolf'with disgust and it made Albus want to hex him once more.

"Mr. Eckerton has the right to keep his health check issues to himself,"Balladanis replied,"His health is none of your line of work whatsoever. Please continue, Mr. Potter."

"After Matt left, I wanted to be sure Malfoy was n't going to go severalise the whole school about flatness 's lycanthropy,"Albus explained,"And I guess we just wound up dueling."

"Just wound up dueling ?"Malfoy scoffed,"You had your wand on me."

"You sent the first hex,"Albus muttered.

"Do you have anything to add, Mr. Brickston ?"Balladanis asked.

"No,"John replied,"Albus is telling the truth."

"Very well,"Balladanis replied,"I see this subject goes much further than a duel. All three of you will receive four dark'detainment starting tonight at eight. Each of you have lost ten dot from your respective houses.

"However, I am taking all three of you to see the headmaster. There are thing more important to discuss than detention,"Balladanis said as he stood up.

Albus knew full well what Balladanis was insinuating. He and John said cipher as they followed Balladanis to Kendrick 's study. Malfoy walked a few understructure behind them.

Albus had n't been to Kendrick 's subject area since his beginning year, when he went to babble out to Dumbledore 's portraiture. The home had n't changed in the slightest. Everything seemed to be in the precise Saame home. Both Dumbledore and Snape were awaken and in their portraits.

Kendrick was behind his desk writing something when they entered. He looked up curiously at them. Albus, lav, and Malfoy stood near the door while Balladanis strode forward.

"We have a problem,"Balladanis said,"These three have been dueling."

"I trust you to hand out custody, Tethys,"Kendrick replied,"I am busy at the moment."

"It 's not the dueling,"Balladanis said,"It 's what they were dueling about."

"And what would that be ?"Kendrick asked.

"Mr. Malfoy has discovered that lustrelessness Eckerton is a werewolf,"Balladanis answered,"And I believe Mr. potter and Mr. Brickston have known for quite some time."

Kendrick dropped his flight feather and looked up."I 'll acquire this from here. I believe you have a lesson to teach."

"I believe I do,"Balladanis replied and left the room.

Kendrick conjured a few chair and gestured for the three boy to join him at his desk. Albus sat down in the eye chair and waited for Kendrick to begin. He noticed that both Dumbledore and Snape were paying rapt attention.

"fountainhead, well,"Snape said,"Deja vu."

"Not now, Severus,"Kendrick said,"Mr. Potter, perhaps you can tell me if anyone else knows about Matt 's lycanthropy ?"

"Er, yes,"Albus replied,"rose Weasley, Amanda Tagger, and Kaden Dursley."

"I knew that Dursley kid knew something,"Malfoy muttered.

"Not now, Mr. Malfoy,"Kendrick said,"I 'll need to speak with them, as well as lusterlessness. I imagine they 're all in class."

"Sir,"Albus interrupted,"I do n't conceive mat 's in class."

"You may be right,"Kendrick sighed,"Do you have any estimation where he might be ?"

"Yes,"Albus answered.

"Very well. Please go find him,"Kendrick said,"And Mr. Brickston, please go find the others."

Albus nodded and he and John left the field of study. Albus went straight to the predator 's Den while John went to the dungeon as rosiness and Amanda would be in potions.

Matt was sitting on his bed in the Marauder 's Den, staring at the wall and not moving a muscle.

"I suppose Malfoy 's told everyone,"mat said without turning to look at Albus. His vocalization was hollow.

"No,"Albus replied,"He has n't had the chance. whoremonger and I dueled him after you left. Balladanis gave us all four nights of detention and took peak away."

"He 'll tell everyone soon,"Matt replied,"I should probably go pack. You know, I really thought I 'd get to finish schooltime. That 's not even the worst part. It 's going to be all over the prophet. My dad 's going to fall back his job again. We 'll probably have to affect to New York."

He finally turned around and looked at Albus. He no longer looked anxious. He looked absolutely terrified, yet sad at the same time.

"Why did Balladanis feature to be such a good teacher ?"Matt groaned and laid back on the bed,"If he had been some form of terribly teacher then maybe Malfoy would n't have found out. He 's just so exhaustive ! He left nothing out ! Even the way he described the translation. It was so, it was just so, realistic.

"And that stupid anamatek !"lustrelessness sat up and looked at Albus,"That thing looked just like me, only older. No curiosity Malfoy found out."

"You 're not going to get kicked out,"Albus assured him.

"How do you know ?"Matt shouted,"How do you really have a go at it ? I know shift 's dad got to stay after Snape found out, but this is different. That was when Dumbledore was here ! Everyone says Dumbledore was barking mad. Kendrick is n't. Kendrick 's perfectly sane and he 's not going to want to deal with this."

Albus did n't really make love what to say to that. Everything Matt said was lawful. Kendrick was not Dumbledore. nonentity could compare to Dumbledore.

"Kendrick wants to see you,"Albus said,"He 's got Malfoy up in his study. He wants to mouth to all of us. Me, John the Divine, Rose, Amanda, and Kaden."

"I do n't want to go up there,"Matt said,"I never want to see Malfoy again. I just want to last out here. Merlin, my head is killing me."

"I think you have to go,"Albus said quietly.

"I know,"Matt groaned and got up off the bed,"This just is n't evenhandedly. I hate it. I hate this unhurt matter. I do n't want to be a flaming wolfman anymore."

"I know,"Albus said, knowing just how miserable flatness was at that minute. Albus had never once heard him kvetch about being a werewolf. Not when he was too stock to do anything because of the full moon or when he was laid up in the hospital wing for days afterwards.

They walked quietly back to Kendrick 's subject field. Albus muttered the parole, that he had take in Balladanis say, to the gargoyle and they ascended into the study.

Everyone else was already there and they all turned to Albus and lusterlessness when they walked in. Matt froze in spot and Albus stopped and looked at him. He was staring directly at Malfoy.

"need a stern,"Kendrick gestured to the two empty hot seat, one of which was next to Malfoy's.

Albus took the prat next to Malfoy 's, but did n't look at him. flatness took the former one.

"start, I want to assure you that you do not have to go forth Hogwarts,"Kendrick said to Matt,"Nobody else will be finding out about your lycanthropy."

matte did n't front reassured by this. Malfoy looked mutinous.

"My father wo n't agree with that,"Malfoy muttered.

"Your father has no say whatsoever in which students I admit to this schooltime,"Kendrick replied,"He works in the Ministry, and may I direct out that his spatial relation is not very high."

"matte,"Kendrick turned away from Malfoy,"Does anyone else make love ?"lusterlessness shook his head."And did you tell the others, besides Mr. Malfoy, willingly ?"Kendrick continued. matte nodded.

"Very well,"Kendrick said,"And how long have they known ?"

flatness seemed unable to speak. After a few present moment of silence, Kendrick turned to Albus."How long have you known, Mr. Potter ?"

"Two years,"Albus answered.

Kendrick repeated this question with Rose, toilet, and Amanda, who all gave the same reply as Albus. Then he moved onto Kaden and Albus suddenly remembered the Sileo Altus charm. He shared one horrified glance with rosebush and waited for Kaden 's reply.

Kaden looked at Kendrick and then turned to Albus. His mouth was love feast and he looked a little panic.

"Are you all right, Mr. Dursley ?"Kendrick asked.

"Fine,"Kaden answered,"It 's just, well ...."

"Professor, Sir,"Rose began,"We sort of put this spell on Kaden, so he would n't severalise anyone. He can only talk about it with us. He wo n't be able to say a thing about it around you or Malfoy."

Albus braced himself for Kendrick 's reaction, but before the schoolmaster could say a Holy Writ, Dumbledore chuckled in his frame.

"The Sileo Altus charm,"Dumbledore smiled,"Ingenious. Who performed it ?"

"I did,"Rose answered.

"Remarkable,"Dumbledore said,"You must be an incredible witch, Miss Weasley."

"Too smarting for her own right, more like it,"Snape muttered.

"That is indeed quite the awful feat, Miss Weasley,"Kendrick said,"Can you tell me how long Mr. Dursley has known ?"

"About a year,"pink wine said.

"Thank you,"Kendrick replied,"Now I have some matter to discuss with Mr. Malfoy and Mr. Eckerton in private. The quietus of you may go to the Great Hall. I believe there is still a one-half time of day or so go forth of lunch."

Albus did n't really want to leave without finding out what was going to happen to Malfoy, but he knew lusterlessness would narrate him.

Matt never showed up in the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall for lunch, nor did he go to Ancient rune or charm. Albus could not concentrate on either of those classes and was very well-chosen when appealingness was over and he was able to leave.

Wood was not very happy that Albus had acquired four hold. In fact, he was livid. He spent twenty minutes telling Albus how he should n't be picking fights with early students so close to the next Quidditch compeer, especially in battlefront of teachers'classrooms. The speech had only ended when Albus told him he was late for magic spell. Albus had run into Wood in in between ancient Runes and Charms.

"What do you suppose Balladanis is going to make us do ?"John asked as they walked towards the Marauder 's Den.

"Have n't a hint,"Albus replied,"But whatever it is, it 's going to be bad since we have to do it with Malfoy."

"True,"John the Divine agreed.

rosebush, Kaden, and Amanda were with them. Albus wanted to go incur lusterlessness before they went to dinner. They had to wait a piece for the corridor to clear out before they were actually able to get into the way, though.

flatness was fast deceased on the couch when they entered."estimable thing he does n't receive detention tonight,"lav pointed out.

"Yeah,"Albus agreed.

Saint John the Apostle gently shook Matt 's shoulder until he cracked his eyes open."Wake up,"John said,"Or you 'll miss dinner."

"I 'm not hungry,"Matt muttered.

"What 's Kendrick doing about Malfoy ?"Albus asked as he sat down on the other end of the couch.

"He should put that charm on him,"Kaden announced,"The one you lot put on me."

"I wish he would,"matt sighed,"All he did was separate Malfoy how crucial it was not to mention anything. He said telling his father would do zippo. Then he told him that if he ever did tell anyone, he would face exclusion for revealing another student 's aesculapian information. But that 's it ! I mean, Malfoy did promise he would n't say anything, but who really knows ? for sure, if he tells, he 'll be expelled, but that wo n't strike it back. I 'd still have to leave."

"As much as a git as he is,"Albus began,"I do n't mean he 's going to say anyone if it meant he 'd be expelled. That would be the ultimate shame in the Malfoy family, besides being a Squib or marrying a Muggle or something, getting expelled and not being a fully qualified whizz. Malfoy wo n't desire that."

"I guess you 're right,"Matt sighed,"It 's just so strange, knowing that he knows."

"I know,"Albus said,"Do you want to go eat dinner party ?"

"No,"mat shook his head,"You guys go on ahead. I 've got to send an owl to my parents, let them know about this."

Albus nodded."We 'll see you later, then. John and I have got detention tonight."

"Oh, right. Good chance with that,"flatness replied.

******

Balladanis 's detention was a bit anticlimactic. Albus had been expecting him to intend up some really creative and taxing detention, but instead he assigned them personal credit line. Lines were possibly the most boring detention ever thought up, but they were preferred to cleaning the john or something.

"ceramist, Malfoy,"Balladanis said after they 'd been writing for ten minutes,"Your dueling deterrent example is canceled for tomorrow nighttime due to your detention. Detention will be at nine, after my extra help academic term, something I 'll expect you to be attending, Brickston."

Balladanis said zero more and began grading essays at his desk. He completely ignored the three male child, which Albus did n't really mind. He just wanted to get his pipeline done and get out of there.

"Where does he go ?"Malfoy hissed at Albus.

"What ?"Albus whispered.

"You know, on full moonshine, where does he go ?"Malfoy elaborated.

"I 'm not telling you that,"Albus muttered.

"My dad said a werewolf used to teach here, and he got fired when everyone found out,"Malfoy drawled.

"He quit,"Albus corrected him,"He was n't fired. He was the topper Defense teacher any of our parents ever had."

"Quiet !"Balladanis shouted,"I did n't say you could talk."

Albus was grateful for Balladanis 's scolding. Malfoy stopped asking motion and went back to his lines. Albus sighed and went back to his own. How far was Malfoy going to go ? Why could n't he just be satisfied with having worked out Matt 's secret ?

A half hour into their line writing, when Albus was contemplating switching deal despite the fact that he wrote horribly with his ripe hand, there was a smash on the threshold. Albus looked up and saw professor Kendrick standing in the doorway, along with none other than Matt 's dad. Albus set down his quill and turned to bathroom. John had set down his own quill.

"Who 's that ?"Malfoy asked.

"Shush !"Albus hissed. The last thing they needed was for Balladanis to remember they were there and tell them to get out so he could receive whatever conversation he was about to consume in private.

"genus Aplysia,"Kendrick said quietly,"This is Walter Eckerton."

"We 've met,"Balladanis muttered.

Albus turned again to John. Matt 's dad knew Balladanis ? How ? matte had never mentioned that before.

"That 's his dad ?"Malfoy whispered.

"Shush !"Albus said again.

"I wish to speak to you about what happened earlier today,"mat 's dad said quietly.

"What about it, Eckerton ?"Balladanis asked.

"My son told me about your example,"Mr. Eckerton said,"How, informative they are."

"I teach my students what they 'll call for to screw in order to defend themselves,"Balladanis replied.

"I think you go too far with that,"Mr. Eckerton disagreed,"Merlin, showing them exactly what a werewolf looks like before a transformation with an anamatek ? Do you realize how dangerous those are ?"

"Of form,"Balladanis said, raising his interpreter a bit,"You 're not the lonesome expert on magical beast. I have perfect dominance over my anamatek."

"Nobody has perfect control over an anamatek !"Mr. Eckerton said.

"The schoolmaster has already told me I 'm not allowed to use it anymore, so you really do n't need to be lecturing me about this,"Balladanis seethed.

"Oh, it 's not only that,"Mr. Eckerton stepped a bit closer to Balladanis,"It 's how practically you taught the 3rd years about lycanthrope. The item about their transformation, how to piece one out of the full general universe, what happens before, during, and after transmutation. Your deterrent example was far more detail than a third class text book."

"You 'd observe that all my lessons are like that,"Balladanis replied,"Text Quran do not give enough details."

"I think giving enough details about identifying a loup-garou so that a one-third year would be able to make for out that someone not even in their same theatre is one is going too far,"Mr. Eckerton seethed,"You knew about my son. You should consume been a bit more cautious with your lesson."

"Withholding information from an entire year because of one scholar is not a good method acting of teaching,"Balladanis countered.

"It is when it could be severe for that one bookman,"Mr. Eckerton said,"Fan of the greatest commodity for the outstanding turn, are we ?"

"There are clip when that is a good philosophy,"Balladanis replied.

"We 'll accord to disagree, then,"Mr. Eckerton said,"But if I find that your object lesson are putting my son in danger anymore, you may find that the Ministry is inquiring into your teaching practices."

"I 'll instruct however I like,"Balladanis muttered.

Mr. Eckerton ignored this and turned to the three boys, none of whom were writing lines any longer."Is that him ?"he asked.

"The one who found out ?"Kendrick replied,"Yes."

Mr. Eckerton strode over to the table Albus, John, and Malfoy were working at. He nodded hello to Albus and John before turning to Malfoy.

"I realize the headmaster has already gone over this with you,"Mr. Eckerton began,"But I feel the pauperism to echo that there will be result if you make world my son 's condition."

Malfoy nodded."I know,"he muttered.

"goodness,"Mr. Eckerton replied and returned to where Kendrick was standing. He turned once again to Balladanis."I 'll be returning to the castling tomorrow to search your subject field and classroom for the anamatek. If it is still here, I will take it into custody."

Balladanis muttered something under his breath as Matt 's dad left the room with prof Kendrick. Albus exchanged a coup d'oeil with John. He wanted nothing more than to leave, so he could sing about what had just happened.

"That 's enough for tonight,"Balladanis barked,"Get out. Be back here tomorrow night at nine."

Albus nearly spilled his ink in his haste to get up. He ran out of the room as fast as he could with bathroom following. Malfoy made no move to try and talk to them again, so they headed straight to the Marauder 's Den.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the cover girl citizenry who have read and reviewed this ! You guys are awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John burst into the Marauder 's Den a little while later to find that Matt and Kaden were the only ones there. Matt 's boldness was covered in ash and Kaden was grinning. They were in the middle of a game of Exploding Snap.

"And that makes four profits for me and none for you,"Kaden announced as he collected the cards,"Oh, Albus, St. John ! How was your detention ? Want to play ?"

"Not now,"Albus said hurriedly as he sat down adjacent to Matt,"Matt, did you hump your dad was just here ?"

"Yeah,"Matt nodded,"When he got my owl, he wanted to go talk to Kendrick. I went with him."

"wellspring, do you make love where he went after ?"John Lackland asked.

"Home, I guess,"flatness shrugged,"Why ?"

"He and Kendrick turned up in our detention,"John said.

"He what ?"mat replied.

"Yeah, it was really odd,"Albus said,"He came in with Kendrick and Kendrick introduced him to Balladanis. Only Balladanis said 'we 've met'. You never told us your dad knew Balladanis."

"I never knew,"flatness shrugged,"Then what happened ?"

"Your dad was really angry,"Albus continued,"He thinks Balladanis taught us too much about how to visualise out if someone 's a werewolf and that 's why Malfoy found out. Then he told him how grave it was for him to use that anamatek in class-"

"Oh, yeah,"Matt said,"I told my dad about the anamatek and that 's one of the reasons he came here, to narrate Kendrick about it. Kendrick 's making him get rid of it."

"Yeah, that 's what your dad said,"Albus replied,"He 's coming back to inspect Balladanis 's room tomorrow to make sure enough he got rid of it. He also said that if any of Balladanis 's precept puts you in peril again, the Ministry 's going to investigate him."

"It 's really not a good idea to get on my dad 's bad side,"Matt said,"What did Balladanis do during this ?"

"He kept saying that he was going to learn however he wanted,"Albus explained,"Honestly, he did not bet happy that your dad was there. I think something happened between the two of them."

"But what ?"Matt asked,"Dad 's never mentioned him before."

"Think he 'd tell you if you asked ?"Gospel According to John wondered.

"Probably,"Matt said,"I 'll owl him about it."

"Oh, and then your dad told Malfoy he 'd better not tell anyone you 're a lycanthrope,"John said,"He looked pretty chilling, too. I do n't recall Malfoy 's going to severalise anyone."

******

It did not choose very long for word to spread that Balladanis had gotten in trouble for having an anamatek. Galleons exchanged hands the adjacent morning at breakfast, as a few older students had bet on how long he would have it. Somehow everyone knew that lustrelessness 's dad had showed up at Hogwarts the previous Nox and informed Kendrick about it.

Kaden had defense mechanism that morning and reported to Albus at lunch that Balladanis was even strict than usual and seemed incredibly tempestuous. That did not bode well for Albus 's detention that evening.

"He 's downright scary,"Kaden said as he piled steak and kidney pie onto his denture,"Yelled at one of the Ravenclaws in my class for spilling her ink. She was nearly in tear. But I 'd hate to be in your class, Albus, he 's going to be beastly. I mean, it 's pretty practically because of mat that he got in trouble."

mat had gone up to the predator 's Den after they got out of Herbology since he felt ill and was n't in lunch. Albus knew that Kaden was ripe. Balladanis was going to take this out on flatness, and possibly Malfoy as well.

"I do n't know why he cares so a good deal,"John shrugged,"I mean, the Ministry could take in just taken that affair away. He 's lucky he just had to have it back to his mansion or whatever."

"I do n't think he likes the authorities,"Albus said,"That 's the look I got after listening to him utter about what he did before teaching here. I think that 's why he did that, instead of becoming an Auror."

"well, I think it 's a good idea for the Ministry to cause him pack that thing household,"lavatory said.

"Me, too,"Albus agreed,"I mean, he could 've turned it into a manticora next."

Kaden went to class after dejeuner while Albus and John went up to the Marauder 's Den with Rose and Amanda.

"Think he 's owled his dad yet ?"John asked as he gestured to Matt, who was asleep in his bed.

"Doubt it,"Albus said,"He 's probably been asleep since he got up here."

"Merlin, I just want to hump what happened between his dad and Balladanis,"trick groaned.

"You 're so impatient,"Rose commented,"Just let him sleep."

"I was n't going to stir up him up,"whoremaster muttered.

The balance of the afternoon passed by quickly. Albus was dreading his detention later and John complained loudly about how he had to go to the superfluous help session about werewolves when he already knew so a great deal about them.

Albus woke lustrelessness up shortly before dinner and he looked much worse than he usually did the day of full moonlight. They all escorted him to the infirmary wing, where madam Pomfrey rushed him into bed.

Just as they were about to allow for the hospital wing, the room access opened and in walked Matt 's dad. Albus assumed he was there to check if Balladanis had gotten rid of his anamatek.

John nudged Albus."We should ask him about Balladanis,"John whispered.

"He 's not going to distinguish us now,"Albus muttered back,"face at him."

Mr. Eckerton looked tired out and incredibly worried. He nodded to Albus and the others before rushing over to Matt 's bed and talking to Madam Pomfrey in quieten whispers.

As it turned out, Albus had been worrying about the detention for zip. He entered the room before Malfoy and Saint John was already doing his line of products. Balladanis said absolutely nothing to Albus as he handed him sheepskin. Malfoy arrived a little while later and still Balladanis said nothing.

Malfoy did not talk either. He did not ask anything about lusterlessness and did n't even point out that the wax Moon was that night.

Balladanis let them impart at half past tense ten. Albus and John found Kaden in the vulture 's Den and spent the remaining meter left until Astronomy playing Exploding Snap and Wizard 's Chess.

"Why, why do we have to have this class with the Slytherins ?"john groaned as they made their way to the Astronomy Tower,"If Malfoy does n't realize a one comment about the full moon, I 'll eat an full cauldron."

"I 'm going to hold you to that,"Albus laughed,"But I do n't think you 'll have got to."

Malfoy went so far as to actually set his telescope up next to Albus 's. Professor Polo spent ten minutes telling them that they were to plot the position of Mar, Venus, the lunar month, and a handful of ace before turning them misplace to actually do so.

"The moon is so burnished,"Malfoy whispered,"And big and ... wide ...."

Albus looked at Saint John."Looks like I wo n't be eating my cauldron tonight,"John muttered.

"Just shut it, Malfoy,"Albus said.

"Is n't his dad the capitulum of the Department for the ordinance and dominance of Magical animate being ? Yeah, he must be, because he 's the one who made Balladanis get rid of the anamatek. Ca n't say I 'm really upset about that,"Malfoy said quietly,"But how ironic."

"Just hold on talking about it,"Albus muttered.

"Oh, come on, Potter. Even you have to appreciate the sarcasm,"Malfoy said.

"Will you just shut up,"Albus seethed.

"lull over there,"Polo said.

Malfoy smirked at Albus one more fourth dimension before going back to his scope. The rest of the object lesson passed without anymore commentary from Malfoy and Albus was quite glad when he was able-bodied to give back to his dormitory.

******

"It 's like back in first off class,"Albus sighed,"Remember when gentlewoman Pomfrey locked the hospital fender ?"

"That 's why this is bad !"Rose said.

"Well, she did n't lock away us out this meter,"trick pointed out.

"She did n't exactly let us in either,"Kaden said.

Albus and his acquaintance had slept late on Sabbatum good morning and after grabbing a quick snack to eat, had gone to confab lusterlessness in the hospital wing. madam Pomfrey had n't let them in. They were currently in the predator 's Den, trying to calculate out why.

"She always lets us in,"John groaned.

"He obviously had a really bad Night,"Albus said quietly.

"Yeah, but why ?"pink wine wondered.

"Have n't you noticed that the full moons have been worse the preceding few months ?"Albus asked,"He 's been taking longer to recover."

"I wish he 'd just let us become Animagi,"John muttered.

"John, I honestly do n't think you could suit an Animagus,"rose wine replied,"You 'd wind up up with a permanent butt affixed to your arse."

"That would n't be that bad,"John grinned,"Always thought it would be cool to let a tail."

"You 're not helping,"Albus sighed,"What are we going to do ?"

"I think all we can do is just hold on going back to the hospital extension,"John shrugged,"Until Madam Pomfrey lets us in."

Their effort proved bootless, though. They went to the infirmary wing twice that afternoon and then the right way before Albus and lavatory had to go to detention. ma'am Pomfrey told them 'no'each time.

Sunday, the last day of Albus and can 's detention, was the same. ma'am Pomfrey was quite livid when they showed up for the third time that day.

"aught 's changed !"she shouted,"come back tomorrow evening ! I 'll give the lot of you detention if you come back any earlier than that !"

With that, she strode back into the Barbara Ward and slammed the door."Can she even give detention ?"Kaden asked.

"I dunno,"Albus shrugged,"I would n't put it past her."

Albus and John broke away from the chemical group to complete their close detention. Balladanis gave them lines, just like he had the past three dark. Albus sat quietly completing them, very thankful for the fact that Malfoy had n't said two wrangle to him since Astronomy.

"You may kibosh,"Balladanis said quietly after they 'd been writing for about an hour and a half.

Albus threw his quill down and leaned back in his professorship. Finally, it was over.

"I hope you learned something,"Balladanis said, which shocked Albus. He had been expecting Balladanis to continue his silence."If I catch any of you dueling in the corridors again, the consequence will be much more severe than detainment and lost points.

"Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy, I have given not bad thought to whether I should continue giving you extra moral. I have decided to give you one more than chance. object lesson will continue this Friday at their normal time. However, if either of you disregard my rules again, I will no longer agree them. You may go. I 'll see all three of you in course on Tuesday."

"Merlin, I 'm glad that 's over,"King John muttered to Albus once they were on their way to Gryffindor Tower.

"Me too,"Albus agreed,"He 's going to be awful in class, though."

"Yeah, ca n't say I 'm looking forward to that,"John said.

Albus could n't concentrate at all in his classes the succeeding day. All he wanted to do was go to the infirmary extension and encounter out how Matt was, but Madam Pomfrey insisted that they wait until evening.

rose wine and Amanda ate dinner party with Linda, but they met Albus, John, and Kaden near the hospital extension afterwards. They had all eaten a very hurry dinner due to Albus 's Quidditch praxis at seven.

Albus cautiously opened the door to the hospital wing, half expecting lady Pomfrey to yell at them again. He walked quietly inside, followed the the others. brothel keeper Pomfrey was sitting at her desk and she visibly sighed when she noticed them.

"Go ahead,"she gestured to the only if tenanted bed, which had the pall pulled around it.

Albus rushed over to the bed and yanked the curtains back. Matt looked exhausted and there was a rather heavy bandage wrapped around his head.

"I was wondering when you 'd occur visit me,"flatness gave them a half smile.

"We 've been trying !"lavatory said,"Madam Pomfrey has n't let us !"

"I know,"matte smirked,"I 've heard her yell at you. It 's kind of amusing."

"Well, we 're here now,"Albus said,"How are you ? Why did n't gentlewoman Pomfrey let us follow visit ?"

"Because I did n't stir up up until yesterday good afternoon,"Matt answered.

"But that was-"St. John the Apostle began.

"Nearly two days later ?"Matt cut him off,"I know."

"But why ?"Rose asked.

"A bunch of affair, really,"Matt sighed,"first-class honours degree, I was worried about Malfoy telling everyone and it 's always regretful when I 'm worried about something. arcsecond, I hit my head really intemperate at some head that night. It still hurts. Third, the transformations in general are getting uncollectible, because I 'm getting older."

That thought certainly had n't crossed Albus 's mind. Albus and all his friends were obviously getting sometime and that brought plenty of changes, but he had n't even thought about how the brute would change when Matt got older.

"So, are all of the full moons going to be this bad now ?"Kaden asked.

"No,"flatness shook his head and then winced,"I mean, I do n't really know what 'll happen in the future, but this one was just a combination of bad things."

"That 's beneficial, I guess,"Albus shrugged,"When do you get to leave behind ?"

"Tomorrow night at the earlier,"Matt sighed,"Although that means I 'll lose Defense."

"regard I could miss defense,"John muttered,"speech production of defence force, did you owl your dad yet ?"

"John, he just woke up yesterday,"Rose pointed out.

"I did n't owl him,"Matt said,"But he came to see me before and I asked him."

"Brilliant,"can grinned,"And ?"

"And,"lustrelessness said,"He told me all about it. He told me Balladanis was a Presuler and was really storm that I already knew.

"Apparently, back when my dad had just been appointed Head of the section for the Regulation and controller of Magical Creatures in Australia, he hired Balladanis to catch a dance orchestra of lamia who were attacking Muggles on the outback. Balladanis caught them, but he thought Dad went too leisurely on them."

"What did he do to them ?"lavatory asked.

"Sent them to prison. I think they got 20 years. Balladanis thought they should have got gotten life history sentences. Dad and Balladanis got into this immense line at the Ministry about it and Balladanis stormed out. The Aboriginal Australian Ministry did n't hire him after that,"Matt explained,"Although, I 'll bet Balladanis and Lubar would agree on punishments. I wonder if he 's hired Balladanis."

"That explains a lot,"Albus said,"Did your dad say anything else about him ?"

"No, not really,"Matt replied,"Just that he 's got a lot of outlet. Oh, and he wanted me to monish you not to listen to everything Balladanis says during those dueling deterrent example you 've got."

"I 'm not going to,"Albus assured him,"I think we 've all seen a unlike side of Balladanis during the by week."

******

Tues morning dawned quickly and Albus trudged to defence with John. Neither of them really knew what course of study would be like, but judging from what he heard about Recent epoch defense reaction course of instruction in the unwashed elbow room, it would n't be fun.

Malfoy was back to his smug ego now that custody was over. He sat succeeding to Goyle wearing a smirk on his face. Albus ignored him and went to his usual table.

Balladanis stormed into the room a few transactions later. He waved his wand at the door and it slammed shut with a clap tatty enough that it caused the Jordan-Bell twins, who had been sitting closelipped to it, to jump.

"mountain pass your prep questions forward,"he growled.

Albus handed his homework to the table in front man of him and waited for Balladanis to collect it. He paused in front end of the table in front of Albus's.

"Potter,"he began,"You can say Eckerton that his homework is belatedly and therefore I will not take it. If he wished to get quotation for it, he could have graced us with his presence."

Malfoy snorted at this, earning him brilliance from both Albus and Balladanis. Balaldanis tossed the preparation unceremoniously onto his desk and then turned back to his students.

"Aconitum lycoctonum potion,"he barked,"Was created by a man by the name of Joseph Oliver Belby. He finished the origination in 1991. For most werewolves, the potion was a lifeguard. Who can explicate what it does ?"

nonentity, not even Rose and Linda, raised their workforce. Albus stared down at his desk, hoping that Balladanis would n't call on him.

"cipher ?"he said,"Pity. wolfsbane potion renders a werewolf harmless during full moon. The loup-garou turns into a wolf, but a harmless one. One that will just sleep until the moon sets and will not bear the urge to seize with teeth and kill.

"The potion is a lifesaver to those plagued with lycanthropy. I had been hoping to show you what a werewolf would look like on Wolfsbane potion, but my anamatek has been banned from the castle,"Balladanis said with malice,"Therefore you will hold to go without the visual. It seems that certain parents, Ministry official, and the headmaster do not approve of my methods of teaching. Unfortunately, it is all of you who are suffering for it."

"I would n't predict it suffering,"Gospel According to John muttered.

"silence, Brickston !"Balladanis shouted,"Unless you have something to contribute to the class."

"No, sir,"privy replied.

"Good,"Balladanis muttered,"Anyway, the anamatek will not be making anymore appearing in this classroom and your education is going to put up for it. Nothing, and I repeat aught can replace hands on training."

Albus usually agreed with that, but he drew the line of credit at having what was in essence a populate manticore in movement of him. There were some times when reading sufficed.

The lesson continued with Balladanis talking about Wolfsbane. He spoke about how the potion does n't act for all loup-garou and Albus found his creative thinker drifting. All in all, the deterrent example had n't been as bad as he 'd been expecting. Besides his legal brief rant about his anamatek being banned from the castle, he had been pretty normal. Normal for Balladanis, that is.

"Next lesson will be the finis on werewolves,"Balladanis announced at the end of class,"We will learn about lycanthropy 's effect on children."

Albus groaned inwardly. Matt would be out of the infirmary wing by then. Why could n't Balladanis just finish the werewolf social unit already ?

"He wo n't be back next year,"john muttered as they walked to Herbology.

"I do n't doubt that,"Albus replied,"I just marvel who we 're going to get instead."


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"Place your stakes here !"Fred shouted the following day as he walked around the usual room.

Albus had just climbed through the portrait hole with Georgia and James after a particularly hard Quidditch practice. woodwind was getting them prepared for the match against New York, which was to adopt place in a picayune over a week.

"Georgia, James, Albus !"Fred greeted them,"Care to place a bet ?"

"What are you taking stake about ?"Georgia asked tiredly,"And if you keep betting on stuff, your mum is bound to recover out."

"She wo n't give care,"Fred shrugged. He was probably rightfield. Albus 's Aunt Alicia was the to the lowest degree strict out of all of his aunts. She 'd probably place a bet with Fred.

"You 'd just break Hope Grandma does n't find out,"Georgia smirked.

Fred looked momentarily horrorstruck and Albus could n't charge him. mollie Weasley would probably broadcast him a howler if she knew he was gambling.

"She wo n't unless you tell her,"Fred muttered,"And Heather and I are taking bets on how very much foresighted Balladanis is going to last. upkeep to take a guess ?"

"I suppose,"Georgia said as she pulled out some gold,"Two Galleons says he 's gone in a hebdomad. I heard he had three first year in crying today."

"He nearly had one-half of my division in tears,"Fred said as he took Peach State 's gold,"James, Al ?"

"Three Galleons says he 's gone in two weeks,"James said as he tossed Fred some gold and then left to go retrieve his friends.

"Nope,"Albus shook his pass.

"lawsuit yourself,"Fred shrugged and continued his walk around the plebeian room,"wager here, place your bets !"

Albus found his friends crowded around their usual table in the common room. Linda was with them. All three girlfriend were working on homework. Gospel According to John and Kaden were trading Chocolate Frog cards.

"Fred 's going to get himself in bother,"rosiness muttered as Albus sat down,"You did n't bet anything, did you ?"

"No,"Albus shook his head,"How about you lot ?"

"I bet ten Sickles he wo n't lastly the year,"trick said.

"You should know exactly when he 'll will, what with your taking Divination,"rose wine smirked.

"prophecy 's a joke,"trick muttered,"I ca n't wait to drop it after 5th year."

"Told you so,"Rose grinned,"Sick of making up stuff ?"

"It 's just so pointless,"John the Divine groaned,"We 're still doing crystal balls. I just evidence her that I see myself dying anytime she asks and it keeps her happy."

"That 's why I 'm not taking soothsaying,"Kaden announced,"Bloody waste of a class."

Kaden had chosen his classes for next yr a few days prior. He decided on caution of Magical animate being, ancient Runes, and Arithmancy.

"Easy homework, though,"John sighed,"I just keep back reminding myself about that."

"What 's got easy preparation ?"Matt asked as he sat down in the chair next to John the Divine 's. He looked a bit better than he had the old day, but still don out.

"Pomfrey finally let you out ?"John asked,"And we 're talking about Divination."

"Yeah, just in time for Defense tomorrow,"flatness groaned,"I 'm tempted to use a Fainting partiality to get out of it."

"I think half the first old age are going to do that on Fri,"Kaden said,"I overheard them talking. Apparently Balladanis completely flipped out on one of them today, all over one uncomplete homework head. Made her cry."

"That 's what Georgia was saying,"Albus replied,"Makes me want to use a Fainting Fancy. Two hebdomad. I know I did n't bet on it, but that 's really all I 'd throw him."

******

bathroom filled his pockets with disgorgement pastille before he set off to Defense the following first light. Albus did n't bother. His oddment always trumped his dislike for certain class. He 'd rather be there and know exactly what Balladanis was doing.

"lycanthrope,"Balladanis said as soon as the buzzer rang,"When the terminus is used, most hoi polloi conjure up images of unfrequented adults, condemned to a poor sprightliness that revolves around the Sun Myung Moon.

"However, there is a hale group of werewolves that are mostly overlooked. minor. Ah, yes, children do get attacked by werewolves. Very few survive. Found by their parents when it is too of late. Even fewer survive the initial transformation. Werewolf transformations, as you have learned, are incredibly taxing, both physically and emotionally. Very few minor are strong enough to make it through."

Balladanis paused and began to pace the room."Parents are faced with a decisiveness after their baby is bitten. They have three option. Number one, they can look at with it. Deal with the monthly translation and try and make liveliness as rule as potential for the tiddler. phone number two, they can abandon their tyke. Force them to dwell with a fantastic mob of lycanthrope, to grow up to kill. However, there is a third option. Does anyone tutelage to guess as to what it is ?"

Nobody raised their script. Balladanis looked at his class until his eyes rested on matte. A very creepy smirk appeared on his face.

"Mr. Eckerton, care to recite us ?"Balladanis asked.

Albus, who had been trying hard not to count at Matt throughout the deterrent example, stole a quick glance at him. He was staring at the desk, quill in paw, shaking slightly.

"N-no,"mat stuttered.

"Very well,"Balladanis smirked,"The third base choice is to put the child down. Not a pleasant option, but one that a few parents select anyway. This option used to be readily suggested by Healers, but has now become quite controversial. It is not suggested very often anymore.

"Parents who choose the inaugural pick, to bear on to raise their fry, are in for a very tough spirit. loup-garou tyke are unmanageable to raise. It is a huge accommodation for parents and sib if there are any. The bite affects the whole kin. It changes lifespan, it can rip kinfolk apart."

Balladanis continued droning on and on about how lycanthropy affects tike and Albus looked again at Matt. His hired man was shaking even harder and his font was as Elwyn Brooks White as it had been when he had dressed up as a ghost.

Albus shared a feeling with Gospel According to John and Saint John the Apostle reached into his scoop. He slid a puking Pastille across the board towards Albus and then slid one to Matt. Albus quietly unwrapped it and then waited until Balladanis had looked away to shove it into his rima oris. John and Matt did the same. Albus clutched his tum as the Sweet began to take affect.

"Lycanthropic children rarely, if ever, get to look shoal,"Balladanis droned.

"Sir !"John shouted,"I do n't sense so well. May I go to the Hospital annexe ?"

"I do n't feel too well either,"Albus added.

"Shut it, you two,"Balladanis shouted,"And no you may not go to the-"

Balladanis was cut off by the sound of all three boys vomiting at the Same meter. Albus leaned over his table and vomited right onto the floor. The grade erupted into shout and Balladanis tried to keep order.

"mulct !"he seethed,"Get to the Hospital fender, all three of you !"

Albus resisted the urge to vomit again as he ran for the doorway. flatness and John Lackland followed. All three of them shoved the orange end of the sweets into their oral fissure as soon as they shut the door behind them. The affect was instantaneous. Albus immediately felt better.

"The man 's evil !"john shouted,"How could he teach that ?"

"Not here,"Matt muttered and took off down the corridor.

None of them said anything else until they reached the Marauder 's Den."As I was saying,"John began,"What is legal injury with that feller ?"

"I think a lot of thing,"Albus muttered,"He 's a raving lunatic."

"He 's only doing it because you 're in the class,"John said to matt as he paced around the room,"None of what he said today is actually in the book. I mean, did you learn the book ? There 's not much in there that Balladanis has actually taught !"

"He hates me because my dad made him get rid of his stupid anamatek,"Matt muttered.

"But it started before that,"Albus pointed out,"He wants to realise you suffering because of what your dad did with those vampires year ago."

"It 's just not honest,"Matt groaned,"I mean, did you mind to what he was talking about ?"

"It was hard not to,"Albus sighed,"Is it true ?"

"Yes,"matt said quietly,"And before you ask, one of the Healers did paint a picture that to my parents."

Albus suddenly felt more throw up than he had when he ate the regurgitation Pastille. How could a healer, someone whose job it was to piddle hoi polloi healthy, actually suggest that to a tike 's parents ?

"Seriously ?"John asked,"What happened after they asked ?"

"My dad and my Uncle Jack hexed him at the Saami time,"matt gave them a half-smile,"Put him in his own infirmary bed for two days."

"You know, I 'd really care to see your Uncle diddly-shit,"lav grinned,"He sounds like a great bloke."

"He is,"lustrelessness smiled,"He would 've hexed Balladanis quite a spell ago if he were here."

"But he 's not,"John the Evangelist sighed,"So what are we going to do about this ?"

"I 'm sending an owl to my dad,"Matt said as he stood up,"You two are n't going to possess to do anything."

"Three days,"John said after matt left,"I give Balladanis three more days."

******

"Your dad certainly does n't macerate any sentence,"Rose said to lusterlessness as she unfolded her transcript of the Prophet the adjacent cockcrow at breakfast.

Albus leaned over and interpret the newspaper over Rose 's shoulder joint.

HOGWARTS prof TO BE INVESTIGATED BY MINISTRY
The section of Magical breeding received an inquiry
late yesterday afternoon, requesting an investigation
of Hogwarts defence mechanism Against the iniquity humanities professor,
Tethys Balladanis. The inquiry was submitted by none
other than the newly appointed Head of the Department
for the Regulation and command of Magical Creatures,
Walter Eckerton, whose fourteen-year-old son currently
attends Hogwarts.

Professor Tethys Balladanis has been teaching defense at
the school since September, when he replaced straits Auror
Harry Potter. ceramist had taught the subject for two
eld and wished to focus solely on his Auror career,
resulting in his resignation at the end of net schooling
year.

The impending investigation comes as hardly a surprise.
Earlier this week Bruno Walter Eckerton visited Hogwarts
after receiving a tip that Balladanis was holding an
anamatek in his classroom. This proved to be true and
Eckerton ordered him to remove it. The anamatek was
legally in Balladanis 's self-possession, so all he had to
do was off it from school premises. Eckerton told
reporters that Balladanis complied.

However, Eckerton has claimed that the professor
repeatedly put educatee in peril and humiliated them
in front of their classmates.

'It 's not just the anamatek ,'Eckerton told newsperson,
'I 'm filing this question as a parent, not as a Ministry
official. First and foremost, I wish to protect my son .'

The investigation will start out today and be carried out
by officials from the department of Magical Education,
a section that was set up for this use after
the downfall of Maker Voldemort. functionary will visit
the schooltime and interview both students and faculty as
a function of their investigation.

Aplysia Balladanis will carry on to learn vindication Against
the Dark arts during this time.

"He 's still going to teach ?"John said incredulously after he finished reading the article.

"I 'm not going to defending team anymore,"flatness said,"Not until he 's gone."

"They ca n't give up him from teaching until they do the investigating,"Rose explained,"Only Kendrick can stop him from teaching at the moment."

"Then why does n't Kendrick do that ?"Albus asked as he looked up at the faculty table.

Kendrick was talking with Neville and there was a transcript of the oracle egg laying between them. Balladanis was not present.

"I do n't know,"pink wine said quietly,"But Defense is just going to get worse."

"Which is why I 'm not going,"Matt said adamantly.

For once, Rose did not chastise him about skipping class. Albus could n't blame him. He himself was half tempted to skip, but he knew his curiosity would get the break of him.

"Somehow, I do n't cogitate you 'll have the chance to skitter,"pink wine muttered,"We do n't hold Defense until Tuesday."

"Excellent,"John grinned,"Now I wo n't have to do that werewolf essay."

"I never said that,"pink wine replied,"You still ought to do it, just in case."

"face, Kendrick 's getting up,"Kaden pointed to the staff table.

"May I have your attending !"Kendrick shouted and the chatter in the anteroom immediately ceased,"Thank you. I trust by now that you 've all either read or listen about the article on the front page of the Prophet.

"Ministry official will be visiting the school day today and tomorrow to conduct their investigation. They will be selecting students to interview. If you are selected, I advise you to answer their motion truthfully.

"As of right field now, prof Balladanis is still your teacher, therefore you need to treat him with respect and take care his social class. This is, at the minute, an investigating and nothing more. Now, you 'd best be off to class."

"Albus,"rosebush whispered as they made their way out of the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall to History of thaumaturgy,"You 're not going to that dueling lesson tonight, are you ?"

"I dunno,"Albus shrugged. He had n't really thought about it until then.

"I do n't remember you should,"Rose told him.

Albus nodded. He did n't require to go, but he also did n't want to get hold out what Balladanis would do when Albus did n't show up that evening.

nonentity fell asleep during History of magic. It must have been a new platter, one that was previously set back when Binns was still alive. However, the lack of fatigue was not due to Binns 's talk. No, that was just as boring as common. The pupil remained awake because they were talking about Balladanis. The classroom was filled with the quiet down whispering of the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw third years and Binns droned on without seeming to notice.

There were only six students in the castle who knew the particular reason why matt 's dad had submitted that question. Albus, blush wine, John, Amanda, Kaden, and lustrelessness himself. Seven, if you counted Malfoy, but even Malfoy did not cognize that it had been Balladanis 's lecture on lycanthropic baby that pushed Mr. Eckerton to submit the inquiry.

Everyone else speculated. About half the school put the blame on the anamatek, even though mat 's dad had come out and said that was n't the real reason. The Prophet had only glazed over the reasonableness, not getting into particular. The Hogwarts students wanted specific. They wanted to know what had pushed lusterlessness 's dad to submit an inquiry when none of their parents seemed fazed.

The reasons the pupil fabricated ranged from plausible to steep. A few 7th year, mainly Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws, speculated that Balladanis had gotten a bit overenthusiastic with his duplicate avail academic session and perhaps practice Matt as an example of person who did not possess the acquirement to kill night wizards. combine that with an overprotective parent ( what the seventh days claimed Matt 's dad to be, which was not actually an exaggeration ), and the investigating was born. They believed that the investigation would blow over and within two weeks everything would be back to normal, with Balladanis still teaching.

A few overexcited first of all years were the on the opposite side of the spectrum. They believed that Balladanis had let a chimaera loose in his schoolroom while teaching the Gryffindor and Slytherin one-third years. Apparently they overlooked the fact that nobody had turned up injure after class and the fact that Balladanis would have been sacked immediately if that had actually been the case.

matt had become somewhat of a celebrity inside the Hogwarts walls. There was n't a 1 person, aliveness, ghost, or portrait, who did n't live it was his dad who launched the interrogation. He was stopped no lupus erythematosus than six times on the way from history of Magic to Herbology by people wanting to know the point of the research. It was something Albus could tell Matt was extremely uncomfortable with.

"pigeon hawk, when will they see that I do n't need to talk about it !"Matt groaned as they made their way back to the rook after Herbology. Two Ravenclaw second years had just run up to Matt, demanding to get laid why his dad wanted to get Balladanis sacked. Apparently they actually liked him.

"You should just stand up on the Gryffindor table and make an proclamation during dejeuner,"John suggested.

"Definitely not,"matte said,"I 'm just glad we do n't have class this afternoon."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed,"Hey, look, I bet those are the investigators."Albus pointed to three official looking hoi polloi striding up towards the castle. There were two crone and a wizard.

"Probably,"King John said,"I wonder who they 're going to consultation ?"

"Ten Galleons says they interview me,"lustrelessness replied,"And probably Albus since he 's had all those buck private lessons."

"Let 's just Leslie Townes Hope they do n't interview those two Ravenclaws,"john said.

Albus, Matt, and John continued their trek to the Great hallway, where they ate a very fast lunch. None of them wanted to stay very long since everyone was still asking Matt about the research. After they finished, the boys went to Gryffindor pillar to deposit their bags before going to the marauder 's Den to put off their homework.

The park room was mostly empty when they arrived, but Albus spotted Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn sitting around one of the tables.

"Do n't you three have socio-economic class now ?"Albus asked, feeling very much like Rose.

"Yes,"Lily muttered,"We 've got Defense and we 're skipping. Do n't say anything about it. There 's nothing you can do to make me go, so do n't even try."

"I was n't going to,"Albus assured her,"Was n't it your socio-economic class where Balladanis made someone cry ?"

"That 's why we 're not going,"Ashtyn replied,"And we do n't care if we get detention either. Oh, and John, you 'd ameliorate not narrate Mum."

"I wo n't,"toilet said,"The three of us used Puking Pastilles to get out of Defense Department yesterday."

"You should take in just skipped from the beginning,"Ashtyn told them.

"well, you three enjoy your skipping,"Albus said as he continued to his dormitory.

"Oh, believe me, we will,"Lily grinned.

The boys quickly stowed their bags in their dorm room and set off for the Maruader 's Den. Albus climbed out of the portrait hole and ran straight into Gabriella.

"There you are, Al !"Gabriella exclaimed,"I 've been looking for you. Kendrick wants to see you in his study. Oh, knack on."Gabriella consulted the piece of parchment she was holding."He wants to see Matt, too."

"facial expression like you two are getting interviewed,"John said as Gabriella went into the common room.

"speculation so,"Albus shrugged. He really was n't surprised. Even if he had n't been receiving buck private lessons with Balladanis, he probably would give birth been interviewed. It was one of those things that happened when your Father-God was the most famous wizard in Britain.

"I 'll see you two later, then,"John the Divine replied,"Have fun."

"Oh, yeah,"Albus rolled his eye,"Loads."

Albus and Matt left for Kendrick 's study while John continued towards the piranha 's Den. Albus had no idea what he was going to do while they were gone, but he would bet that John would be bored within XV minutes.


A/N : I hope you all enjoyed HPFF 's Apr soft touch 's Day prank ! The staff really outmatch themselves this year. Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and everyone who has read and reviewed this taradiddle !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was another Prefect standing adjacent to the gargoyle that concealed the entrance to Kendrick 's study. It was apparently his job to grumble the word to the gargoyle to allow all the pupil being interviewed in. He looked incredibly bored.

Albus and Matt ascended into the study and found three other bookman waiting in forepart of Kendrick 's fold door. A very bored looking Hufflepuff, who was probably in sixth or seventh year, Scorpius Malfoy, and much to Albus 's disheartenment, one of those Ravenclaws they had encountered on the soil earlier.

Albus was not at all surprised to see Scorpio Malfoy there. After all, he had buck private object lesson with Balladanis as well. However, he chose to cut Malfoy 's presence and leaned against the wall to get the long wait.

What had been the point in sending them all to Kendrick 's study at the Saami time ? They were obviously only interviewing one someone at a time. Why could n't they stimulate just summoned Albus later, when there were less hoi polloi waiting ?

Kendrick 's door opened and a pale-faced Gryffindor first year walked out. She hurried out of the sketch and one of the Ministry functionary motioned for the Ravenclaw to enter.

The Ravenclaw was in Kendrick 's subject area for about 15 bit. Then it was Malfoy 's turn. He took a bit to a greater extent time, but finally came out and left without so often as a glance towards Albus and Matt.

In the mean time, two more scholarly person had entered. One Albus recognized as Peyton Haines, one of the pursuer from the Slytherin Quidditch team. The other was a Pres Young Hufflepuff Albus did n't recognize.

Finally, after what must cause been at least an minute, Albus was finally called into the way.

Kendrick was not in his discipline. Only the three research worker were. Albus was now capable to see them up close. The one who had called him into the room was quite marvelous and wore a menacing glare. Her robes were perfectly pressed, without a individual wrinkle, and her hairsbreadth was pulled into a rigorous bun. She reminded Albus of Minerva McGonagall.

The other witch was the terminated antonym. She was short and quite a bit heavy. Her frizzy brown hair stuck up at all sort of odd angles and she had a modest pair of specs perched on her nose.

The remaining investigator was a sensation and he was seated behind Kendrick 's desk, a quill in hired man. He looked a bit bored by the entire thing. He was gazing about the way and had the looking of person who was n't quite paying attention.

Two people who were paying rapt attention, or should he say portrayal, were Dumbledore and Snape. Both were sitting straight up and looking straight at the investigators.

The tall hag gestured for Albus to strike a seat in figurehead of the desk. Albus did so.

"My gens is Katherine Torenzo and this is Lorraine Smyth,"the magniloquent witch gestured to the little witch,"And that is Herb Cletus. He 'll be transcribing our interview."

No wonder he was so bored, Albus thought. He did n't even get to ask any of the questions.

"Please res publica your full epithet, age, year, and house for the record,"Torenzo said briskly.

Albus raised his eyebrows. Would n't they already know all of that information ?

"It 's protocol, honey,"Smyth told him.

"Albus Severus ceramicist, thirteen, tierce year, Gryffindor,"Albus answered.

"Excellent,"Torenzo replied,"Now, perhaps you can tell us what goes on in an median lesson with professor Balladanis, in your own words."

"Er, all right,"Albus said,"Well, he comes in and William Tell us all to stop talking. Then he 'll collect the homework. Oh, and you have to get the prep in on time, no subject what. He does n't take latterly work, even if you 've got a good excuse. You could be sick in the hospital wing and he would n't take deep homework.

"Then he 'll teach us a new go or about some new animate being. Then we 'll take in to execute the spell."

"What happens if you do n't perform it properly ?"Smyth asked.

"He makes you do it again, and again, until you get it,"Albus answered,"If you do n't get it, he makes you go to extra assistant sessions."

"Has this caused distress to any of the students in your class ?"Smyth asked.

"Not in my class, but I 've heard of former scholarly person crying because of it,"Albus answered.

"Have you attended any extra help sessions ?"Torenzo asked.

"No,"Albus shook his straits,"prof Balladanis has never told me I had to."

"I understand you have been given dueling lessons by him, however,"Torenzo said,"Can you state us a bit about them ? What do they lie of ?"

"Most meter he just teach me new piece, spells that are gruelling than the ones we learn in class. Scorpius Malfoy is there, too, and we duel each early with the spells,"Albus explained.

"You said 'most'times,"Smyth said,"What else does he take you do ?"

"Er,"Albus shifted uncomfortably in his chair,"One time he had us go into his pensieve."

"Did he,"Torenzo muttered,"Please elaborate."

"We watched his parents be murdered by vampires,"Albus said after a brief hesitation. He doubted Balladanis would be happy about this, but Kendrick had said to be truthful.

Both Torenzo and Smyth looked horrified. Cletus was writing away furiously on the parchment. Snape was smirking and Dumbledore 's human face had seemed to harden.

"We did n't actually see it,"Albus said quickly,"We stood outside the house as it happened. Balladanis 's parents were in the theater. Then we watched Balladanis, in the retentiveness, run away from the house. He was thirteen."

"And then what ?"Torenzo prodded.

"We left the pensieve. Balladanis explained what we had seen-"

"He did n't tell you ahead of time ?"Smyth asked.

"No,"Albus shook his straits,"He just told us to go in the pensieve."

"Did he explain why he wanted you to see this ?"Torenzo asked.

"Yeah. He wanted to show us why he became a Presuler,"Albus said.

"He told you he 's a Presuler ?"Torenzo raised her eyebrow.

"Yes, he thinks me and Malfoy should become Presulers,"Albus explained.

"Very well,"Torenzo said as she walked towards Albus,"I have one final question. Would you feel comfortable if Professor Balladanis continued to learn here ?"

Albus thought about it for a moment. Balladanis was certainly a motivated teacher and one Albus could get a line a lot from. But on the other hand, he was n't the sort of magician Albus felt well-heeled around.

"No,"Albus said quietly,"I guess not."

Torenzo nodded."Please return to your vulgar room. You are not to speak of this consultation to anyone until after the investigation is completed."

Albus got up from the electric chair and Torenzo followed him out of the room. She called Matt in as Albus left. Albus muttered a tranquil 'good luck'to him before descending from the room.

******

"Why ca n't you just distinguish us ?"John Lackland lamented as the son sat around the Marauder 's Den after dinner party. Rose and Amanda were currently in the girls'dormitory with Linda, who had recently been interviewed.

"I 've told you a million times,"Albus said,"The Ministry beldame said we could n't spill about the interview."

"But how would they know ?"St. John asked,"It 's not like I 'm going to go telling the unharmed school about it."

"Neither will I,"Kaden added.

Albus snorted."I 'll tell you about it after Balladanis is sacked, or is n't sacked. I do n't call back it 's going to take hanker for them to decide."

"He 's going to be sacked,"Matt said adamantly and then turned to John,"You 're not going to his redundant help sitting tonight, are you ?"

"Not if I was paid twenty Galleons,"privy replied,"Well, ok, maybe if I was paid twenty Galleons, but not for to a lesser extent than ten. What about you, Albus ? Going to go to your dueling deterrent example ?"

Albus shrugged. He still had n't decided. What he really wanted to know was whether Malfoy was going, but he could n't very well waltz down to the donjon, barge into the Slytherin common room, and ask.

"No idea,"Albus sighed.

"Do n't go,"lustrelessness said,"If you go, I 'm going to start worrying about your sanity."

"Why would you desire to go ?"Saint John gave Albus a foreign look.

"I might determine out something about how the probe is going, or something,"Albus muttered.

John opened his mouthpiece to reply, but instead turned to the doorway. A loud squawking noise had seemed to give off from it.

"Did you hear that ?"whoremaster asked.

Albus nodded and got up from his seat. He walked over to the door and paused next to it. The squawking racket was repeated.

One thing Albus loved about the Marauder 's Den was that it was always very quiet. No stochasticity could be heard from the corridor while he was inside. Albus rarely ever heard haphazardness from the corridor, let alone squawking noises.

Albus cautiously opened the door and instead of the outre bird he had expected to see, Rose was standing there with her wand out.

"Finally !"she groaned,"I thought you 'd never get to the door."

"blush wine ?"Albus asked,"What is it ? Was that squawking you ?"

"Yes,"Rose said hurriedly,"I had to get you to come out of there. Uncle Harry 's looking for you. He 's waiting in the common way. I told him I 'd find you."

Albus turned around and told matt, John, and Kaden, all of whom had followed him out of the room, that he would be back soon. He had no idea what his dad wanted, but it must have been of import for him to go to the rook on a day he did n't have to police it.

Harry was sitting in one of the squashy armchairs in front of the firing when Albus arrived. Georgia and Fred were both talking with him, about likely about Quidditch judging by their excessive use of hand gesture, but stopped abruptly when Albus entered. Harry got up and met Albus near the portrait hole.

"Let 's talk outside,"Harry said. Albus followed him out of the portraiture hole and down the corridor a little ways.

"What were you up to just now ?"Harry asked, grinning a bit.

"Nothing,"Albus shrugged truthfully.

"Well, I 'm no longer a teacher here, so I wo n't say a Bible about you causing trouble, if that 's what you were doing,"Harry told him,"But anyway, what I wanted to ask you is whether you were planning on going to professor Balladanis 's dueling lesson tonight ?"

That seemed to be the question of the eventide, Albus thought."I dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"I realize that the decision is completely up to you,"Harry said quietly,"But I would give notice you not to go. Professor Balladanis is under a considerable total of accent, of which you do n't know the half of. I 'd say the chances are mellow that he may take out this stress on you and Scorpius."

"Do you sleep with if Malfoy 's going ?"Albus asked.

"I really have no idea,"Harry answered,"But I tend to believe he won't."

"I do n't mean I will either,"Albus said.

"A Stephen Samuel Wise decision,"Harry smiled.

Harry said undecomposed night to Albus and then Albus went back to the Marauder 's Den. Kaden was in the middle of showing Matt and Gospel According to John how to make a proper newspaper publisher airplane.

"What did your dad want ?"John asked without looking up from the lambskin he was folding.

"To tell me it was n't a just approximation to go to Balladanis 's lesson tonight,"Albus said as he flopped down onto the empty-bellied couch.

"And ?"lustrelessness asked.

"I 'm not going,"Albus answered.

"trade good,"Matt replied.

"You know what was weird, though ?"Albus began,"My dad said Balladanis was under a lot of strain, nearly of which I do n't sleep with about. So I 'm guessing it 's not only the investigation."

"Wyrd,"Kaden shook his drumhead,"I 'll be happy when he 's sacked."

"We do n't eff for certainly that he 'll be sacked,"Albus pointed out,"I just wish I knew what else he was stressed about."

"Maybe he 's got to battle a beautiful woman,"John smirked,"Remember his boggart ?"

"His boggart !"Albus shouted,"I ca n't conceive I did n't put that together Oklahoman. It was n't a beautiful woman ; it was a vampire. It 's so obvious now that we know what happened to his parents, too."

"Yeah, that does seem fairly obvious,"matte agreed,"But what 's that got to do with his accent ?"

"Probably zero,"Albus shrugged,"I just realized it."

"You know,"St. John began,"This is the showtime Friday we 've had to ourselves."

"You 're compensate,"Albus said,"What should we do ?"

"Let 's go down to the kitchens,"Kaden said.

"And pass the night here,"Matt added,"We hardly ever do that."

They did just that. The boys snuck down to the kitchens and were given as many sweets and pud as they could take by the house elves. Then they stayed up late eating all of it and playing versatile games. Albus was even able to forget about Balladanis for a spell, something that had not happened in quite a while.

******

The Ministry functionary remained a permanent habitue at Hogwarts throughout the rest of the weekend. Albus overheard a lot of pupil mentioning that they 'd been interviewed, including Gospel According to John 's cousin Isabelle, one of the chaser on the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, and Gabriella.

Professor Balladanis did not demonstrate up at a one meal. In fact, he was n't seen at all throughout the weekend. Nobody saw him, which raised the doubt of whether he was even still in the castle.

Albus was hoping he ran for it. Got out before the Ministry had a hazard to make their decision. Albus was Sir Thomas More than a little queasy about going to Defense on Tuesday and hearing what Balladanis had to say about Albus 's absence from their dueling lesson.

It was on Mon morning that all the Hogwarts students knew a finding of fact had been reached. professor Kendrick rose partway through the meal, something that only happened when something important happened. He was flanked by the two crone from the Ministry. The wizard was no longer there.

The vestibule immediately quieted, without Kendrick even having to ask. Albus was slightly taken aback by Kendrick 's imminent annunciation, since there had not been a single quotation of Balladanis in that morning 's Prophet.

"A decision has been reached about Professor Balladanis,"Kendrick announced,"Madam Torenzo will inform you of it. The Prophet has kindly agreed not to write the article about it just yet, as I wished to inform you of it first."

"He 's sacked,"privy muttered,"Otherwise he 'd be at breakfast."

"commodity point,"Albus said.

Torenzo stood up and gazed out at the students with a neutral look on her cheek."Upon extensive investigation of Professor Balladanis 's didactics methods and exhaustive interview of take students, the Ministry has seen it fit to remove him from his teaching position here at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and genius. prof Balladanis packed his affair late survive nighttime and no farseeing resides in the castling. prof Kendrick will inform you about what will materialise with Defense family for the rest of the year. I would care to give thanks all of you for your cooperation during this time."

Torenzo sat back down and continued eating her breakfast like nothing had happened. The Great Hall immediately erupted into susurration, but they were quickly stopped by Kendrick.

"Defense Against the nighttime Arts classes will not take away place until boost notice. I will try and pander a suitable replacement for prof Balladanis as quickly as possible. Until then, please use the time to consider for your approaching exams,"Kendrick said and then resumed his seat. He began to talk with Torenzo and the students phonation rose in the Hall.

"I knew it !"Matt exclaimed,"Best tidings I 've heard this month !"

"Yes !"Georgia shouted and then turned to Fred,"Pay up !"

"merlin !"James groaned,"Why 'd they have to do that probe so quickly ?"

Money began to exchange hands throughout the Gryffindor table as Fred collected and handed out Galleons.

"Do you opine Kendrick 'll find a replacement ?"John the Divine asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged,"No one really wanted that job to lead off with."

"Glad I did n't do that wolfman essay,"John grinned.

"Maybe Kendrick wo n't find a alternate,"Kaden said,"Then we 'd ingest one to a lesser extent exam."

"That would be superb,"lavatory replied.

The atmosphere in the castle for the rest of the day was incredibly upbeat. Hardly anyone seemed at all sad that Balladanis had left. Quite a few educatee asked mat to thank his dad for them. It seemed that the only bookman upset by it were those who had lost bets because of it.

argus Filch was another who was dysphoric. The superior general exhilaration of the castle caused him more work. Peeves destroyed the defence classroom in solemnisation ( Balladanis never liked Peeves ), James and his friends set off a few Weasley fireworks, and then there was the general peck that was associated with students celebrating by playing outside in the muddy grass. Plus, Moaning Vinca minor flooded her privy when a few students told her that even she ought to be excited about it. Apparently she did not correspond. For some odd intellect it reminded her of her death.

One mortal who seemed incredibly excited was Linda. Linda who rarely showed any emotion whatsoever walked around the castle with a big grin on her face. Albus could only attribute this to the fact that Balladanis had taught so extensively about vampires. But he never taunted her the way he 'd taunted Matt. Perhaps that was because his biggest care was vampires.

There was even a party in the Gryffindor vulgar room that nighttime. rosiness thought it was a short ridiculous, to celebrate the sacking of a teacher, but everyone else, including Linda, thought it was an splendid affair to celebrate.

"Just think,"John said,"We do n't ever take to listen to him go on and on about how bad the dark arts are. I mean, we all know they 're bad. We all know about Voldemort and what he did."

"And that bloody anamatek,"lusterlessness added,"I could 've gone my whole life without seeing one of those."

"What do you remember he 's doing now ?"Rose mused.

"Maybe some Ministry hired him,"Albus said quietly,"I hope it 's some place far, like Madagascar or somewhere."

"Yeah,"Matt agreed,"I bet he 's not even in Britain anymore."

"I do n't see why he 'd devil to dumbfound around,"Albus replied,"I mean, he snuck out in the night to avoid anyone seeing him."

"compliments we could 've seen him leave,"lavatory grinned mischievously,"Would 've been squeamish to founder him a right send off."

"I 'm just glad it 's over,"rose muttered,"Maybe now you lot can focus on exams. And maybe the castling will get back to normal."

"rule ?"Albus raised his eyebrows,"This place will never be convention. Plus, we 've got Quidditch on Saturday. It 's the conclusion couple before the final."

"When 's the net ?"Rose asked.

"starting time of June, I think,"Albus answered,"Australia 's already so far ahead that they 'll be in it."

Albus, John, matt, and Kaden all sent scathing looks at Linda, who looked down at the table.

"But if we beat New York in this mate,"Albus continued,"We 'll be in it, too. So Mrs. Henry Wood is in full form this week. I 'm practicing every night starting tomorrow."

"King Oliver woodwind instrument is harebrained,"Rose muttered.

"Insane, but brilliant on the Quidditch lurch,"John grinned,"I would jazz to get yelled at by him during a Quidditch practice."

"Excellent,"Albus said,"You can read my place."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Despite the fact that he did not have Defense Against the Dark Arts the next dawn, Albus was down in the Great Hall bright and early because he wanted to read blush wine 's Daily oracle. Having Kendrick announce Balladanis 's sacking was one thing, reading it in the seer was entirely different.

blush wine was already there when Albus, mat, and whoremaster sat down at the Gryffindor mesa. Amanda and Linda were on either side of her and all three lady friend were reading the clause. Albus drummed his fingers impatiently on the table while he waited for them to be finished. Finally, Rose handed him the paper without saying a word and Albus read it, with Matt and lav looking over his shoulder.

HOGWARATS instructor REMOVED FROM POSITION BY MINISTRY

In an upshot that causes much of the wizarding populace to remember
back to Voldemort 's reign, Hogwarts Defense Against the Dark
humanistic discipline instructor, Tethys Balladanis, has been removed from his
perspective by the Ministry of deception 's section of Magical
Education.

During Voldemort 's reign, defense mechanism teachers rarely lasted more
than a class at the shoal, a secret that abruptly ended when
Voldemort was defeated on May 2, 1998. Up until two years
ago, Hogwarts had had only one defence mechanism teacher since that
fateful May day.

professor Torro taught at Hogwarts for class until he was
mysteriously murdered nearly three years ago. He was
replaced by Head Auror, Harry ceramist, who is rumored to
have only taken the position after cypher else agreed to
filling it.

Harry ceramicist left the billet this past autumn and it was filled
by Balladanis.

Balladanis taught until two days ago, when he was removed
from his position. Approximately a calendar week and a half ago, a
complaint was lodged by head word of the department for the
regularisation and ascendence of Magical Creatures, Bruno Walter Eckerton,
whose fourteen-year-old son currently attends Hogwarts.

The complaint included harsh teaching methods, the use of an
anamatek as a instruction dick, singling students out for want of
acquisition, and embarrassing scholarly person in movement of their peers.

An investigating by Ministry officials ensued and included
the interviewing of blue-ribbon pupil and stave. The section
concluded their investigation late William Ashley Sunday eventide and inform
both Balladanis and headmaster Fabius Kendrick of their conclusion.
Balladanis left the castling willingly and will not be appealing the
decision. When asked for a statement on the issue, both Kendrick
and Balladanis declined.

Upon hearing the news, Bruno Walter Eckerton said ,'I am very happy
with the decision and that the investigation was concluded in
a timely fashion. I am not well-chosen that it came to this, but I
feel that nothing should be put ahead of tyke 's safety .'

Hogwarts pupil will not go to Defense division until a replacement
is found. As of right now, one has not been found.

"I knew they 'd dumbfound your dad in there somehow,"whoremaster announced once they 'd finished reading.

"There was n't anything in there that we did n't already know,"Albus muttered,"I was hoping Balladanis would 've said something or we 'd find out what happened when he left the castle."

"Maybe he really did go quietly,"Matt shrugged,"Maybe he wanted to get back to his anamatek."

"I wonder where he lives,"Amanda mused,"Think he lives in England ?"

"dubiousness it,"Rose answered,"Even if he did before I doubt he does now."

******

lifespan soon returned to normal for the Hogwarts scholarly person, as it often does after something energize happens. Everyone talked about Balladanis the day the article was published, but soon there was nothing left to say and the educatee focused on the forthcoming Quidditch couple, which was mere sidereal day away.

Albus had an promiscuous time forgetting about Balladanis due to Quidditch practice. He was out on the pitch every evening and was soon hearing Mrs. Henry Wood 's command in his read/write head as he fell asleep, which was something that certainly could n't be deemed normal. Albus was almost glad that the year was drawing to an end because once the tournament was over, he would n't have to allot with woodwind instrument anymore. Thinking about that made Albus actualise that Gryffindor would make a new captain the side by side year since Georgia was graduating. Albus was trusted it would be either Fred or Heather, but he was n't sure enough which.

Albus trudged into the Great lobby on Th morning sorely wishing that John had n't woken him up. They did n't stimulate a year first thing, so why 'd he bother doing that ? Albus was already running on piffling sleep.

"I 'm going to wake you up at five in the dayspring this Sat,"Albus muttered to John as he poured himself some pumpkin juice.

"No you wo n't, you 'll still be asleep,"John grinned,"I need you to help me finish up that Herbology essay that 's due today."

"That 's the intellect for you waking me up ?"Albus groaned,"Why ca n't climb up assist you ?"

"She 's a bit sore with me right now,"John muttered.

"What did you do ?"Albus asked.

"I may or may not experience accidentally set flame to her Potions notes last night,"John said.

"And I should have to digest because of that ?"Albus replied,"How did you contend that anyway ?"

"It was n't an accident,"Matt put in,"John and Kaden were tinkering with those super strong suit dung bomb calorimeter last night in the vulture 's Den. They stupidly decided to do this at the table right where Rose 's notes were. The droppings bombs exploded and Rose 's bank bill caught fire."

"See, an accident !"John exclaimed.

"No, stupidity,"Matt said,"You should 've done it somewhere else. Oh, Albus, I would n't suggest going in the marauder 's Den anytime soon. It smells."

"I would n't sustain clip to anyway,"Albus muttered,"Quidditch practice again tonight."

"Oi, Albus !"Saint James the Apostle shouted.

"What ?"Albus said.

"Is Dad patrolling here this hebdomad ?"Epistle of James asked.

"I do n't know, why ?"Albus replied.

"He 's here,"William James pointed to the staff table.

Albus looked up and saw that his dad was talking with Neville. Except he was n't wearing his Auror gown, he was just wearing pattern robes. Albus glanced back at William James who shrugged.

"May I have your tending ?"Kendrick announced,"Thank you. I just wish to inform you all that Harry Potter has kindly agreed to consume over Defense classes for the remainder of terminus. Because of this, Defense classes will summarize today."

"Good matter I woke you up,"John grinned.

"hypothesis you wo n't be able to end that essay,"Albus shaft back.

"pigeon hawk,"John muttered.

Albus was n't that surprise, nor did he care that much. He 'd already had his dad Thatch for two years and it had n't been bad at all. Plus, his dad was a far better teacher than Balladanis.

Albus walked with flatness and John to vindication. Rose was still not speaking to John and she walked with Amanda and Linda a little ways ahead. Albus seriously hoped that this would n't plough into what happened earlier in the year.

The entire class erupted in applause as soon as Harry entered the room and Albus noticed that this caused him to blush. Even Malfoy was clapping, albeit half-heartedly, but he was clapping nonetheless.

"Thanks,"Harry muttered,"Well, I did not think I 'd be back here. I do feature to continue with the curriculum, so I must ask that you complete the werewolf essay for succeeding Thursday. However, it only has to be one foot of parchment."

There was a collective moan from the total class."Great,"lav muttered,"I was hoping to get out of it."

"It wo n't be that hard,"Matt rolled his eyes.

"But it 'll be metre consuming,"John replied.

"I know, I know,"Harry smirked,"But there is a month and a half of term left and I ca n't just let you have this time to mess up around."

The stratum was the most gratifying Defense grade the third years had had in quite a patch. Harry lectured for the integrality of the class, but it was n't drill. Albus did not bear in mind in the slightest that his dad was going to be finishing out the term.

******

By the clip Saturday arrived, virtually no one in the castle was talking about Professor Balladanis. Quidditch was on the head of everybody 's judgment and the tenseness ran higher than they had all yr. The outcome of this match would watch who played Commonwealth of Australia in the final.

Albus himself was not particularly care. Hogwarts had already beaten New House of York once and they could easily do it again. The stallion team was in good health and none of the alternate were needed. Albus was perfectly contentedness to sit in the sales booth with his friends and just look out the match, rather than have to play in it.

It was a warm fountain day with a fragile air current and swarm cover version, stark playing term. wood had spoke of the atmospheric condition during the previous night 's recitation, telling the team that a large storm had been predicted for that day. Luckily it had not appeared yet.

The peer commenced with a lot of shouting and cheering from the bunch. Hogwarts scored five goals within the first fifteen minutes of the mate and New House of York scored two. The squad remained neck in neck for the remainder of the match, until Jesse James pulled out of a dive clutching the halcyon stoolpigeon in his left hand.

The crowd erupted into cheers and James was soon hoisted onto the shoulders of some of the older students.

"I have an announcement to arrive at !"professor Kendrick shouted over the crowd,"Due to Hogwarts 's win, they will be competing against Commonwealth of Australia in the final examination Quidditch match, scheduled to call for topographic point on the first of June !"

The usual after Quidditch political party ensued in the common room and everyone rehashed their favorite portion of the match. No one talked about the concluding match, although Albus was surely it was in the spinal column of everyone 's minds. Australia seemed impossible to beat.

Once the excitement from another Quidditch win abated, the Hogwarts bookman seemed to pull in that exams were quite go up. The subroutine library soon became a popular place to be and fifth and seventh old age in particular could be seen there all minute of the day.

As the middle of May arrived, Gabriella demanded a quiet common room in the eve, much like her sister had two long time prior. Albus and his friends spent more time in the Marauder 's Den after that, usually without Rose, Amanda, and Linda. The three girls seemed to like the quietude of the common room.

rosiness did forgive John for messing up her short letter, but she became more tense and snappish as exams drew nearer. It was n't something that surprised Albus or anyone else because it had become a sorting of end of full term custom with Rose.

Defense deterrent example took a drastic turn for the better. Albus and all of his friends got perfective stain on their wolfman essays, to the surprise of no one. After that, the course bared no resemblance to Balladanis 's.

"Aw, pigeon hawk !"John shouted at breakfast one Friday in the heart of May. He had been reading the Prophet.

"What is it ?"Albus asked, thinking Balladanis had been reinstated as defence teacher or something.

"England did n't work it into the World Cup final,"John the Divine sighed,"They were so close."

"Who did nominate it ?"Albus grabbed the paper from King John, suddenly remembering the ticket he 'd gotten for Christmas. He had n't picked who he was going to receive to go with him. Actually, he had n't even told his friends about the tickets.

"Portugal and Russia,"John groaned,"Soviet Union ! They 've got a rubbish Quidditch team !"

"Obviously not,"Rose smirked,"Albus, did you pick who you 're going to take when you go to the Cup ?"

"hold, what ?"John the Evangelist gaped at Albus,"You got ticket ?"

"Er, yeah, for Christmas,"Albus said.

"And you did n't secern me !"John exclaimed.

"fountainhead, I only got one spear carrier and I did n't know how to pick. I had it narrowed down to you and lusterlessness. Mind you, if you hate Soviet Russia, I 'll just find fault Matt,"Albus smirked.

"No, no, I did n't say I hate Russia,"John said quickly,"They 've just got a bad team."

"How am I supposed to pick then ?"Albus asked.

"You do n't have to,"Matt said as he sat down next to Albus.

"Nice to see you waken,"privy grinned. Albus and St. John had attempted to wake Matt up before they went down to the Great Asaph Hall and had no luck. The full moonshine was the adjacent day, so Albus had n't even been sure if Matt was going to go to class.

"Why, is the Cup a bad time of the calendar month ?"Albus whispered.

"No,"matte shook his heading,"It 's just that my dad got just the ticket, so you can just contribute your duplicate one to John."

"Oh,"Albus grinned,"That makes things easy."

"Where is the Cup ?"Amanda asked.

"Canada,"Rose replied.

"How are we getting there, Albus ?"King John asked,"Are we going to film a Muggle aeroplane ?"John looked excited at that prospect.

"No idea,"Albus shrugged,"Dad might get a Portkey."

"That 's boring,"Saint John the Apostle said.

"Wish I could go,"Kaden sighed.

"Why, do n't you not like Quidditch ?"whoremaster asked.

"It 's ok,"Kaden shrugged,"I just want to try out a Portkey."

"You 're Wyrd, Kaden,"John laughed.

"So are you. plane are boring,"Kaden argued.

"I 'm with Kaden on this one,"Matt said,"I 'd take a Portkey any day."

******

Between studying for exams and Quidditch practice, Albus had no time for anything else. He managed to crush in prison term to visit Matt in the hospital wing on Sunday, but only briefly before he went to Sir Henry Joseph Wood 's day long Quidditch practice.

The following weekend was the final match of the Jr 's Dueling Club, something Albus had been forced to neglect due to Quidditch praxis. After begging Wood and a bit of assistant from shimmy, Albus was able-bodied to attend the terminal. Albus 's team won, much to the delight of both Albus and Malfoy.

Albus had not spoken to Malfoy since the incident with Professor Balladanis. Nor had Malfoy said a word to Albus, or any of his friends. Malfoy remained mysteriously unruffled around the full moon, not saying anything about it to either Albus or Matt. It was strange, but not something any of the boys were going to kick about it.

tercet days before the Quidditch final, the Great residence hall was filled with whispering voices that reminded Albus of the day Balladanis had been sacked. Copies of the prophet were being passed back and forth and quite a few students looked extremely scared.

"What 's happened ?"Albus asked Rose as he sat down.

"Willinson has broken out of Azkaban,"Rose whispered, her face completely white.

"What ? !"Albus shouted as he grabbed the nighest copy of the Prophet. Matt and John crowded around him as he read it.

AZKABAN breakout

Officials have reported that three prisoners
broke out of Azkaban late shoemaker's last Night. It is
still unknown how it happened. Azkaban safeguard
have refused to verbalize with newsperson, and the
Ministry does not wish to divulge selective information
at this time.

The names of the escaped prisoners have been
released and anyone with information reguarding
any of them are asked to reach the Ministry.

The Prophet then gave detailed information about all three of the escaped prisoners. Albus only recognized Willinson. The other two had been imprisoned for more petit larceny crimes.

"How did he get out ?"Albus wondered,"He 's an idiot !"

"I think everyone 's confused about that,"Rose said.

Any hope Albus had of getting preparation done that week was gone. He was lucky he was able to center on Quidditch praxis. Willinson was out of Azkaban. He was galavanting about England, doing whatever he pleased. That in itself was not necessarily that bad, due to Willinson 's betise. If he somehow met up with his Padre and Washburn, then it could be quite bad.

What worried Albus the most was the fact that he would be after the Hallows, all of which still resided somewhere in or around Hogwarts. Willinson was bound to come back, especially now that he was out of prison.

******

Before Albus knew it, the night before the Quidditch final arrived and Wood called the team into the changing room after ending exercise.

"It has been incredibly rewarding to manage this squad,"Natalie Wood said as he began to pace in battlefront of them,"There were difficultness in the showtime,"he paused and looked at the two Slytherins on the team,"But I am proud to say that you came together as a team wonderfully.

"It still amazes me that a group of scholar from all four menage can arrive together and play together on the same squad. I am not for certain this could experience been done when I was in Hogwarts.

"You have all come a yearn way over the year. You 've all made vast improvements in your skill. Quite a few of you are seventh years and I am very happy to enjoin you that there will be sentry from a twain Quidditch teams watching tomorrow 's equal. I have senior high hopes for the lot of you, when it comes to Quidditch.

"I can not say whether we will win tomorrow. Australia is ripe, there is no denying that. However, I have faith in all of you. Tomorrow, go out there and give it your best. Now, I think you should all ferment in early on and eat a proper breakfast tomorrow before the match. chemise, Tyler, anything to add ?"Wood turned to the boys.

teddy bear and President Tyler both shook their drumhead and Wood turned back to the squad."I 'll see you all down here tomorrow. unspoilt night."

Grant Wood, Teddy, and Tyler stayed behind to discourse manoeuvre while the team left. Albus and James River were the end two to leave. Georgia had left with the former seventh age, excitedly discussing the prospect of scouts.

"You think GA 's going to signalise with one of the professional teams ?"Albus asked James as they walked back to the castle.

"I 'd be surprised if she did n't,"James said,"I just hope it does n't hurt her chance when we lose."

"We might not lose,"Albus pointed out.

"We 're going to lose,"James muttered,"Linda 's too skilful of a Seeker."

Albus said nothing. He wished he could just say King James I that Linda was a vampire. It would be so practically easier.

They kept walking, each lost in their own thoughts. Albus stopped abruptly when he heard a loud sally in the forest.

"What was that ?"he asked anxiously.

"Probably just a branch breakage,"Henry James answered.

"It was too flash,"Albus said as he looked into the forest,"It sounded like someone Apparating in there."

"I do n't think you can Apparate in the timberland,"James pointed out,"And it did n't sound that loud. You 're just tired from all the Quidditch practice."

"I guess,"Albus said as he and King James kept walking,"But what if it was someone Apparating ? What if it was Willinson ?"

"You worry too much, Al,"James groaned,"This shoes is filled with Aurors and Dad 's here full time now. You 'd own to be mad to Apparate here if you 're wanted by the Ministry."

"But Willinson is dolt enough to do that,"Albus replied.

"That 's just it,"King James laughed,"If he 's stupid enough to do that, he 's going to get caught and sent back to Azkaban."

Albus nodded but he was n't reassured. Willinson may be dullard, but he did manage to nobble Kaden the old spring, and he had been on the run for a year prior to that. He may be a rubbish dueler, but he was certainly in force at not getting caught for the most part.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the wonderfully awesome multitude who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The standard atmosphere in the Great hallway the next morning was unlike anything Albus had seen before. The Hogwarts team was sitting together at the Ravenclaw table, surrounded by students from all four star sign. teddy bear and Tyler seemed to be in the thick of it and were loudly discussing tactic.

The Aboriginal Australian squad was sitting together at the Hufflepuff table, with a large distance between them and the Hufflepuffs. A small gang of Australian had congregated around them.

Albus decided not to join the rest of the Hogwarts team at the Ravenclaw table. nobody was unable to play that day, so Albus 's days on the squad were pretty a great deal over. To be honest, he was kind of relieved. There was just so often pressure.

"I think this tournament has been dependable for Hogwarts,"rose mused,"feel at everyone. Nobody seems to wish who 's in what house."

"It 'll all go back to rule once the couple is over,"Albus pointed out.

"Maybe not,"Rose shrugged,"You never know."

"I do n't have a go at it, Rose,"Matt said,"I do n't think one yr can change centuries of tradition."

"It 's worth a try,"Rose said,"I think we should all try and get along."

"I do n't guess this has helped international sorcerous cooperation,"John gestured to the Aboriginal Australian team. The Hufflepuffs sitting nearby were glaring at them.

"Competition rarely does that,"blush wine muttered.

"wellspring, they 'll all be going home soon,"Matt said cheerfully.

Rose shot him a dirty look and then looked up at the staff table. Albus 's regard followed. The staff tabular array was quite overcrowded that morning time. There were sentry from Quidditch teams, Ministry officials including Albus 's Uncle Hotspur, and a variety of multitude from Australia and New House of York.

"flavour at that beldame,"John pointed to a very tall, beautiful witch with pale white peel and long shadow hair.

"She 's Linda 's mother,"Rose told them.

"Is she-"John began.

"Yes,"rosiness whispered,"She 's one, too."

"I thought so,"King John said without taking his oculus off the witch.

There was a loud cheer from the Ravenclaw table and the Hogwarts team began to leave the Hall. Their retinue followed until they reached the door and then they went to sit back down at various tables.

The Aboriginal Australian squad followed shortly. The excitation only seemed to increase now that the team had gone down to the changing rooms.

A few minutes later people began to leave for the auction pitch. The crew at the staff table left first and the educatee followed.

"Albus,"John the Divine said as they got up from the table,"I 've got a few pair of omnioculars in my trunk. I want to see it up close when Linda catches that Snitch."

"Let 's go get them, then,"Albus replied.

rose wine rolled her eyes."Meet us down at the pitch."She and Amanda turned towards the door as the boys ran up the high-flown staircase.

"Why did n't you just bring them to breakfast ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Forgot,"John said.

The castle was absolutely deserted as they made their way back to Gryffindor tugboat. Albus had n't seen it that empty during the day. It was almost disconcerting.

John Lackland had to empty out his entire trunk in orderliness to find the omnioculars. He had four pairs and handed one to each of the boys.

"Let 's go,"Albus said,"We 're going to lack the start of the match."

Albus completely ignored the no run in the corridors normal as he made his way through the castling. There was n't anyone to scold him anyway. The pace behind him told him his booster were n't far behind.

Albus turned a corner and ran smack into something. He fell down onto his back and looked up, only to see that it was someone. Not just anyone either. Albus had collided with Matt 's boggart.

Only, it could n't be a boggart because if it had been a boggart, it would have manifested itself into what Albus was most afraid of. At that present moment, it probably would birth been Willinson.

The man sneered down at Albus and then smiled creepily. Albus scrambled up and turned back to seem at his friends.

Matt had turned white and looked far to a greater extent afraid than Albus had ever seen him before, including when he had faced the boggart and when Malfoy had found out about his lycanthropy. John was looking from matt to the man, an obvious repulsion on his face. Kaden was looking extremely confused.

Albus turned and grabbed all three of his friend, pulling them into the nearest schoolroom. He slammed the threshold and pulled out his wand, putting every locking charm he knew onto the knob.

Matt collapsed onto the cheeseparing hot seat and put his headspring in his hands."Th-th-that's-"

"We know,"Albus whispered.

"What the Inferno is he doing here ?"Gospel According to John ranted,"He 's got no job here !"

"Why 's he in the castle anyway ?"Albus began to pace around the way,"If he 's here to look out the Quidditch mate, then why is n't he down there ?"

"What if he 's not here to watch the Quidditch ?"john said darkly.

"Who the bloody hell is he ?"Kaden asked loudly.

Albus glanced at Matt before looking at Kaden. matt did n't seem to have heard Kaden 's question.

"His name 's Lubar. He 's the read/write head of the Department for the Regulation and restraint of Magical Creatures in Australia,"Albus explained,"He 's the reason why lusterlessness had to act here, amongst former things."

"He 's a puke and twisted evilness git,"John muttered,"What are we going to do ?"

Albus walked over to the doorway and peered out the small window at the top. Lubar was no longer in sight.

"I 've g-got to go to the Ministry,"Matt said,"I 've got to t-tell my dad. L-Lubar, he ca n't be here."

Albus paced back and forth in movement of the door. The Ministry. How would they get there ? Calluna vulgaris ? No, that would take too long. They 'd induce to use the Floo Network, but none of the hearth at Hogwarts were hooked up, as far as Albus knew.

"We 're going to cause to get to Hogsmeade,"Albus said,"You wait here. I 'll get my Cloak and the map. Then we 'll sneak into Hogsmeade and Floo to the Ministry."

Matt nodded."You cat do n't birth to do. You can go to the match."

"Are you mental ?"John exclaimed,"That bloke out there is probably worse than Willinson. We 're not letting you do this alone."

Albus nodded in agreement before waving his wand and undoing the locking charms. He cautiously looked out into the corridor before leaving. It was empty.

Much to Albus 's relief, both the Cloak and the map were right where he 'd bequeath them. He shoved them into his robe and ran back to the classroom. mat, Saint John, and Kaden were all talking quietly. Matt did n't reckon any to a lesser extent scared, but at least he did n't look to be in blow anymore.

"We 're not all going to fit underneath it,"Albus said as he unfolded the cloak.

"You three get under it,"John said immediately,"I 'm magniloquent so I 'll take up the most room anyway. Plus, if we meet up with Lubar again, I 'm the dear liar."

Albus could n't debate there. Both he and Matt were horrible liars and Kaden still had n't gotten over his inability to proceed secrets.

"You take the map, then,"Albus handed the map to John,"We 've got to get to the one-eyed witch statue on the third gear floor.

Albus threw the Cloak over himself, lustrelessness, and Kaden, and the three of them followed John out of the room. The corridor was still abandon, much to Albus 's relief.

King John set a very truehearted pace and he was soon quite a bit ahead of Albus and the others. Albus could n't say anything, though, as it would afford away his presence. Instead he tried to run as fast as he could while making the least amount of racket possible.

The son made it down the two flight of stair requisite to get to the tertiary floor and arrived at the statue without seeing anyone. Albus pulled the Cloak off of them and squeeze it into his pocket. With a quick tap of his baton, he statue 's swelling opened and the boys climbed inside.

Albus lit his wand and took off down the pocket-size passageway. flatness, St. John, and Kaden followed suit.

"Why did Kendrick let him in ?"Saint John the Apostle asked as they ran,"Does n't he know what he did ?"

"Yes,"flatness answered,"I do n't cerebrate Kendrick knows he 's here."

"What did he do ?"Kaden asked.

"You do n't call back he came here to see you ?"Albus asked matt,"I mean, remember when Killigan saw us that one time and he seemed so interested in finding you ?"

"Of course I do,"flatness muttered,"And it really would n't surprise me if that 's why he 's here. But I 'm betting there 's another reason."

"What did he do ?"Kaden repeated, a bit louder.

"Why else would he be here ?"Albus asked,"The match ?"

"Maybe, but I 'm betting it 's got something to do with Linda,"Matt replied,"I do n't know for certainly, but it seems too coincidental for him to be here just to see me."

"What did he do ?"Kaden shouted,"Why would he want to see you ?"

lustrelessness stopped running and wheeled around to look at Kaden."It 's a prospicient narrative. Lubar 's got a grievance against my dad, one that he obviously still has even though we have n't lived in Australia for six years,"lusterlessness paused,"He passed a bunch of laws against lycanthrope and I wound up having to transform with a crew of other werewolf. It was bad."

Matt resumed walking and did n't expound on the subject. Kaden did n't ask him to.

"What 's your dad going to do about it ?"Kaden asked.

"I dunno,"matte shrugged,"Maybe talk of the town to Kendrick or something."

There was no incertitude in Albus 's creative thinker that lustrelessness 's dad would be able to get Lubar to forget Hogwarts, possibly even leave the rural area. Albus had known little about Mr. Eckerton prior to this year, but now he knew that you did not want to be on his bad English. When it came down to it, Mr. Eckerton was the one who had Balladanis sacked.

The passage finally began to rear until it came to an abrupt stay at a involved wooden threshold. Albus pressed his ear to the room access, but heard nothing. He carefully pushed it open, wincing as it creaked.

beholding cipher in the storage room beyond, Albus beckoned his friends forward. The room was dimly lit, enough for Albus to see a huge quantity of boxes littering the floor. On the far wall he could see a fireplace.

The male child climbed over the respective boxwood and stood in straw man of the fireplace. Albus located a small sack of Floo pulverization and then lit a fire. He turned to his friends.

"You ca n't Floo directly into someone 's study at the Ministry. We 're going to let to go to the Atrium,"Albus told them,"I 'll go first, you follow."Albus took a fistful of powder and then handed the bag to Matt.

He tossed the powder into the fire and stepped inside, shouting"The Ministry of Magic !"

Albus stumbled out of a different open fireplace s later. The Atrium was nearly deserted, lay aside for a few necromancer striding towards the lifts, clearly too busy to notice Albus.

matt landed rather ungracefully on the floor. He picked himself up, brushing stray ash off his robes.

"Place is deserted,"mat said as he looked around.

"It 's a Sat,"Albus pointed out,"Does your dad work Saturdays ?"

"Yeah,"Matt nodded,"At least mornings."

John was next to ill-treat out of the fire, doing so more elegantly than matte had. He stood in front of the fire, staring around at the Atrium. His eyes rested on the fountain of Magical Brethren.

"This is to a greater extent fancy than I imagined,"John said.

"Bloody inferno !"Kaden shouted as he fell out of the fire,"This is the Ministry ?"

"Yes,"Matt said quickly,"But we have n't got time to explore. Let 's go."

Albus followed flatness towards the desk in the front of the Atrium. There was an old ace leafing through a written matter of the caviler, oblivious to his surroundings. Albus almost thought they 'd be able to mouse around him, but he looked up just as they were about to pass.

"Where do you think you 're going ?"he asked and then his centre rested on Albus,"Albus Severus Potter. Why are n't you in school ?"

"Er,"Albus began, a little unnerved that the man knew who he was.

matt stepped in front of Albus."We need to go see my dad. He 's the headland of the Department for the Regulation and control of Magical Creatures. It 's kind of an emergency."

"Very well,"the man looked at them oddly,"Put your wands up here."

Albus did as he was told and the others followed suit. They waited impatiently as the old wizard tested their wand and then handed them back. He waved them on towards the lifts.

"What 's the point of that ?"Kaden asked as they waited for a lift.

"So if you murder anyone, they can tell whose wand did it,"Albus said bluntly.

"That 's cheerful,"Kaden replied.

Once the rise arrived, the boys piled in and matte pushed the issue four. cypher said anything as the lift creaked its way to the one-quarter floor.

Matt took off at a run down the corridor after they left the elevator. Albus had never been to this particular proposition trading floor. It looked rather like to the Magical Law Enforcement 's level, with nondescript lot of double door on one side.

flatness skidded to a stoppage in front of the just door that was ace and banged his hand loudly on it. When there was no solution after a few instant, he banged again.

"Hold your hippogriffs !"called a voice from the interior,"I 'm coming, I'm-"Matt 's dad said as he opened the door.

Mr. Eckerton seemed to freeze at the spate of his son and the other three boys. He gaped at them for a second before shaking his head.

"lustrelessness ?"he asked and rubbed his eyes, as if he thought he was seeing a delusion,"But, why are n't you in school ? How did you get here ? Why are you here ? Albus ? What are you- and John, Kaden ?"

His eyes rested on mat again."flatness ? What 's wrong ?"

Mr. Eckerton stepped aside and let the son into his study. He shut the room access quietly behind them.

The survey reminded Albus of his dad 's. There were large Windows on the side opposite the room access, although the scene outside was not real, nor was the aristocratical rain that was pattering onto it.

There was a turgid leather covered chair behind the huge oak desk and a few diminished chairperson in front end of it. Along the early two walls were shelves with loads of books. Most of them were about versatile witching creatures.

Albus, flatness, and John took the seats that were in front of the desk while Kaden wandered around the study looking at matter. Mr. Eckerton leaned against the battlefront of his desk and looked at his son.

"What 's happened ?"he asked quietly.

"L-Lubar,"Matt said in barely more than a voicelessness,"He-he 's at Hogwarts."

"What ? !"Mr. Eckerton exclaimed.

"We were on our way to the Quidditch concluding,"matt said,"A-and we saw him."

"Bloody hell !"Mr. Eckerton stood up and slammed his fist loudly against his desk,"Did Professor Kendrick allow this ?"

"I do n't have intercourse,"flatness replied,"B-but everyone else was at the match and he was just lurking about the castle."

Mr. Eckerton 's cheek hardened. He looked just like he had when he talked with professor Balladanis earlier in the full term."Let 's go, boys,"he said darkly,"I 've got to have a word with professor Kendrick."

Albus followed Mr. Eckerton out of his study and down towards the lifts. Gospel According to John 's walking speed was nothing compared to Matt 's dad 's. The boys had to run to keep up.

"Where did you Floo from ?"Mr. Eckerton asked once they were in the lift.

"Honeyduke 's,"Albus answered.

"We 'll Floo there now,"Mr. Eckerton replied.

The ace at the welcome desk looked at them curiously as they rushed towards the fireplace, but did n't say anything.

Mr. Eckerton handed Albus a bit of Floo pulverization and gestured for him to go first. Albus stepped into the flack and shouted,"Honeyduke 's !"

Albus began to gyrate faster and faster. He saw coup d'oeil of people 's houses, shops in Diagon alley, and a variety of other place he did not recognize. Then, out of one of the fireplaces, came a deal. Everything seemed to slow down, but Albus was n't surely if it actually did or not.

The hired man grabbed him. Albus fought against it, but it was too strong. All of a sudden he was laying on a cold wooden flooring, one that was not at all like the one in Honeyduke's.

Albus coughed and stood up. His fondness was beating fast. What had happened ? Why was n't he in Honeyduke 's ? Where was he ? Whose handwriting was that ?

Albus grappled for his wand and shakily held it up. He lit it and looked around the way, seeing no one.

"Nice to see you, Potter,"a cold voice said from behind him.

Albus jumped and turned around. There, crouching side by side to the fireplace with his hand inside of it, was Lubar. He looked even more creepy in the dank elbow room than he did in Hogwarts.

The fireplace glowed green and Lubar yanked his arm out of it. whoremaster came tumbling out of the fervency and scrambled too his invertebrate foot, looking about.

Lubar muttered something underneath his breathing time and stuck his deal in the fervency again.

"What the ?"John whispered to Albus,"Where are we ? Is that ? Bloody Hell !"

"Shut up !"Lubar shouted.

Albus gazed around the elbow room. It looked vaguely intimate, but Albus could n't put his finger on it. The windows were boarded up, but it was definitely not the shrieking Shack. Albus doubted that was connected to the Floo mesh anyway.

The fireplace glowed unripened yet again, this time sending Kaden onto the story. This earned another shout from Lubar, who stuck his hand in the fire again.

Kaden gaped and then got to his feet and stood next to Albus. He looked absolutely terrified, even before he laid eyes on Lubar.

Albus wanted nothing more than to run from the way, but he did not know where the edifice was even located. Plus, Lubar would probably stupefy him or something.

Green Light Within filled the way as the hearth glowed once more. Albus knew even before it happened that flatness would be the one to next fall out of the flames. Mere seconds later, that suspicion was confirmed.

Matt coughed and scrambled to his feet. He gasped when he saw Lubar and ran over to Albus.

Lubar, finally satisfied, doused the fire and lit his wand, which illuminated his sinister aspect. He began to stride slowly in figurehead of them.

"Well, well, you went crying to Daddy just as I expected,"Lubar grinned manically,"I do have intercourse when things work out the way I expect them to."

Albus could sense flatness shaking succeeding to him. He gripped his wand hard, debating whether to try and demilitarize Lubar.

"Any idea where you are ?"Lubar asked,"Dervish and Banges. Lovely shop, shame about the owner. Yes, a real shame."

Lubar did n't seem at all overturn about what happened to the workshop owner. Albus looked around the store again and now he recognized it.

"well, let 's not waste our clock time here,"Lubar said,"There 's a few people who 've been dying to see you."Lubar snapped his finger's breadth three times and Albus heard footstep on the stairs.

Three wizards descended the steps and strode into the room. They lit their wands at the Sami sentence and Albus gasped when the light showed their faces. Jarrett and Quinton Willinson, along with Washburn. Three people Albus hoped never to see again.

Albus swallowed hard. He could see no way out of this. As good a duellist he was, he was up against four fully qualified superstar. Three of them did not have the skills to duel, but Albus had no idea what Lubar was capable of.

"Ah, yes,"Lubar smirked,"What a lovely reunion. Unfortunately we have n't got time to chat."

Before Albus knew it, Washburn had him in a headlock with his verge pointed at his cervix. Quinton Willinson had Kaden and his Church Father had Saint John the Apostle. flatness, seeing his friends restrained, made a run for the nearest window.

"Not so fast, Loretta Young loup-garou,"Lubar caught him by the back of his robes and wrapped one of his weapons system around his middle.

Lubar reached into his gown with his free hand and pulled out an old tea kettle. He held it out to the other three men and each one put a relieve mitt on it. Albus knew what was going to happen right before it did. He shared a frighten coup d'oeil with lustrelessness before feeling a jerk behind his belly button.


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 ceramist.
A/N : I decided to do part of this chapter from Harry 's breaker point of view. It begins in his dot of opinion and then switches back to Albus 's. Asterisks indicate where the point of view switches.


"Spectacular save by Peach State Weasley !"the commentator shouted.

Harry grinned as his niece threw the Quaffle back into play. It was immediately taken into possession by Hogwarts, and all three Chasers threw it back and forth as they flew to the Australian end of the pitch.

"Score ! Hogwarts has scored against Australia, bringing the total to 50-20 Hogwarts !"

Harry stood up and shouted as loud as the pupil. One affair he loved about the Quidditch tournament was that he did n't cause to try and hold back his excitation when Hogwarts scored. During firm matches, he had to try and pretend he was neutral, even though he obviously supported Gryffindor.

As happy as Harry was about the Hogwarts Chasers being very skilled, he did not get promise that Hogwarts would actually win. Australia 's quester, Linda Morales, was the in force seeker Harry had ever seen outside of professional Quidditch. He knew that his son, James, was well, but he was n't delusional. Linda was brilliant.

There was something odd about her, though, and Harry could n't put his fingerbreadth on it. Her speed on a Calluna vulgaris just did n't seem natural. professional Quidditch participant would bolt down for her speed.

"I 'm surprised she has n't found the Snitch yet,"Neville muttered to Harry.

"Yeah,"Harry nodded as he watched Linda slowly circling above the delivery. King James was doing the like,"It 'll be soon, though."

Harry turned his gaze to the rest of the stave who were sitting around him. Most of them were quite reserved. cipher seemed to be showing the exuberance Harry was. He did n't care. Harry did n't contribution their notion that instructor could n't get overly excited about Quidditch.

A few prof stood up and then sat back down again as mortal squeezed their way past them. Harry craned his head and was surprised to see Walter Eckerton.

Harry did n't know the man well. They 'd met on occasion at the Ministry, although Harry had a impression he 'd be seeing more than of him now that he was Head of the department for the Regulation and control of Magical Creatures.

What Harry mostly knew about Walter Eckerton was more on a personal than pro floor. Harry had never met a father who was more protective of his son than Walter Eckerton, although he did receive honorable reason. Never a more devoted Padre, either.

Bruno Walter continued his way past the other professor until he stopped in straw man of Harry. Harry was even more scandalise to see the formulation on his face. Worry was etched in every constituent of his face, bringing out the furrow, but there was anger in his eyes.

"Bruno Walter,"Harry shook his mitt as he stood up,"What 's going on ?"

"Not here,"Walter muttered,"I need a Son in private."

Harry told Neville he 'd be proper back and he followed Walter out of the bandstand. They continued walking until they were a brusque distance away from the pitch and then Bruno Walter stopped.

"The male child have just been to see me at the Ministry,"Walter said as soon as he 'd stopped.

"postponement, what ?"Harry asked,"You mean Albus and Matt ?"

"Yes, and the other two as well,"Walter said quickly,"You 've heard of Ralph Lubar, the Head of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures in Australia ?"

Harry nodded, slightly confused at the change of guinea pig."Yes, not a very liberal fellow, is he ?"

Walter 's face hardened."That 's a dainty way of putting it. The bloke is sick and pervert and he 's got a grudge against me. Very long story and I have n't got clock time to order it. Short interpretation is that when Matt was eight, Lubar passed a law that required him to transubstantiate in a building with other lycanthrope, older werewolves. Nearly killed him. It was right before we moved. For whatever rationality, Lubar decided to visit Hogwarts today, possibly under the pretense of attending the Quidditch match.

"The boys saw him and Flooed to the Ministry from Honeyduke 's. matte 's absolutely terrified of him, which is why they came to me. I came back with them. They Flooed before I did, but when I arrived at Honeyduke 's they were n't there. I 've already spoken with the owners of the shop as well as a few early Hogsmeade residents. No one 's seen them. We 've got to find them."

Harry 's centre sank."You do n't call up Lubar 's got them, do you ? He 's not unsafe, is he ?"

"To Matt, yes, but I have n't the flimsy melodic theme as to why he 'd want the other boys,"Walter said.

"Even if he did only want mat, he 'd accept to get Albus as well because I know Albus would n't let him take Matt sitting down,"Harry replied, and started walking briskly towards Hogsmeade,"Let 's go. I 'll get every available Auror on this."

******

Albus tried as hard as he could to free himself from Washburn 's grasp as he was Portkeying to who knows where. All Albus knew about the location was that it must be far away. Portkeying is usually mostly instantaneous, but this time there was a significant lag. Albus had sentence to try and get away, not that it did anything.

The indorse clue that their goal was far away was the fact that it was very dark when Albus finally landed on the ground. Not dark like an imminent storm either. Dark as in night.

Washburn had let go of Albus as they landed and Albus hastened to get to his animal foot. cheap thud around him told him that his friends had landed as well.

The reason was weaken and hard and the foliage around them was dense. Albus assumed they were in some sort of timber. He gazed around and saw a lot of unfamiliar Tree that seemed to stretch towards the starry sky.

There was no Moon to illuminate the forest. Lubar, the Willinsons, and Washburn had walked a few yards away from the boys and were whispering to each former. All four had lit their wands, but it was n't decent wand light to give way Albus a effective vista of his surroundings.

mat, bathroom, and Kaden had all scrambled over to where Albus was and were standing quite close to him, their baton out. Albus pulled his own out as well, but did n't dare wakeful it.

"Why is it night ?"Kaden whispered.

"Where the hell are we ?"John asked.

"We 're in Australia,"Matt said in awe, as if he was just coming to terms with that fact.

"We Portkeyed across an ocean ?"Kaden gasped.

When Albus thought about it, it made sense. Lubar was from Australia, so why should n't he take them there ? It was quite far away from anyone who would be looking for them.

What did n't make horse sense was why Lubar was with Washburn and the Willinsons. As far as he could tell, the four wizards seemed to be working together, but why ? Lubar lived halfway across the world. How had he met the Willinsons ?

"Is this anywhere near your old house ?"Gospel According to John asked.

"How should I know ?"flatness snapped,"Australia 's a huge area !"

"I just thought if we were near it, we could hide there,"John muttered.

"You would n't want to,"Matt said,"My poor fish cousin-german owns it now."

"You have a cousin ?"Albus asked.

"Not important,"mat said quickly.

Albus nodded."How are we going to get out of this ?"

"They 're not paying attention,"Saint John the Apostle whispered, gesturing to where the four wizards stood huddled in a rotary,"Maybe if we run for it."

"The Portkey 's rightfield there,"mat pointed to the tea kettle, which was a few foundation away,"If we can just get to it."

"All right,"Albus whispered,"On the reckoning of three. One ... two ... three."

Albus ran as quietly as he could towards the Porkey. He was about to piece it up when it soared up into the air. Albus looked up and saw Lubar sneering at him, with the Portkey in his hand.

"That wo n't do,"Lubar said as he stowed the Porkey in his cloak. He turned to the other three men."They 're trying to get away."

"What do you expect ?"Jarrett said rudely,"There 's four of them ! Do you realize how much more difficult this is going to be now ? We only needed Potter ! But no, you had to go and assert on bringing that werewolf kid as well."

"You would n't even deliver managed this if it were n't for me !"Lubar growled,"So do n't go telling me what I should and should n't birth done."

"fountainhead, now we 've wound up with two special one as well,"Jarret muttered.

"They 're small fry, how often trouble can they be ?"Lubar smirked.

"You do n't know this lot,"Washburn replied,"They 're the reason we have n't had luck before."

"I thought that was because of your incredible imbecility,"Lubar said.

Albus was very connive. Lubar was arguing with them as if he knew them well. Had Lubar really been working with them all along ?

What did they need him for anyway ? What had Willinson meant when he said 'we only needed thrower'?

"Shut it, Lubar,"Jarrett said.

"I 'll say what I like,"Lubar replied,"This is my bush, not yours."

"You own the timberland now ?"Jarrett asked.

"As a issue of fact, I do,"Lubar snapped.

"Ministry must be paying you well."

"Indeed they are,"Lubar said and turned to Matt,"So many twelvemonth have passed. Tell me, what is it like pretending to be something you 're not ?"

To Albus 's surprise, it was John and not flatness who went flying at Lubar. Lubar disarmed St. John the Apostle with a lazy wave of his wand, leaving John stunned in front of him. It appeared that Lubar was a significantly better dueller than either of the Willinsons or Washburn.

Pocketing John 's wand, Lubar turned back to matt, who was shakily holding his wand up.

"It does n't matter what res publica you 're in,"Lubar seethed,"You 're the like affair no topic where you live. The laws do n't transfer what you are. Pretend as much as you like, but it wo n't transfer a thing."

Now Albus wanted to go after Lubar. The anger was boiling up inside of him and he did n't cogitate he had ever felt more wild in his entire life, and that included every showdown he had had with Scorpius Malfoy. Malfoy was like a fluffy kitty compared to Lubar.

However, Albus held himself back. John was already wandless. It would do them no good if Albus got disarmed as well. Something told him to wait, to expect until he could catch up with them off guard.

"What about your father ? I hear he 's the head of the department in United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland now,"Lubar smirked,"guesswork it 's just a thing of clip until the same thing happens. You 'll have to fly again."

Matt was visibly trembling now. Albus wracked his mind, trying to visualise out what to do. What could they do ?

"Oh, for Merlin 's interest !"Jarrett strode forward,"How is this helping things ? Did we really risk Portkeying a clustering of tiddler to Commonwealth of Australia just to rot time taunting one of them ?"

"lull !"Lubar shouted,"I 'll do what I like !"

"Excuse me !"Kaden said loudly, turning to Lubar,"But how in the name of Falco columbarius do you make love them ?"He gestured to the Willinsons and Washburn.

Albus held his breath, waiting for Lubar to put some kind of jinx or hex on Kaden. Sometimes his full cousin was quite dense. It seemed obvious to Albus that this was a fourth dimension not to ask questions.

To Albus 's surprise, Lubar smiled. It was a rick sort of smile, but a smile nonetheless.

"I think that 's a fair question,"Lubar said."My full cousin married this idiot,"Lubar pointed at Jarrett.

"You 're married ?"Kaden gaped at Jarrett, causing Albus to groan. Why would n't Kaden just shut up ?

"Not for much longer,"Jarrett muttered,"Can we please just get on with this ?"

"forbearance, cousin-german,"Lubar said as he began to walk slowly around the former three,"We mus n't do this hastily. Haste is the ground you three have failed prior to tonight."

Fail at what ? What were they going to do ? The lone thing Albus could think of was getting the Hallows, but all three Hallows were in England. If that was their plan, they would n't have taken them to Australia.

Albus glanced nervously at mat, who still looked scared out of his psyche. Something was still telling Albus not to try and duel the men. Lubar seemed smart, practically wise than the other three, and that scared Albus Sir Thomas More than anything else. There was a big divergence between dueling someone who was ache and dueling someone who was an idiot.

******

The Ministry seemed deserted when Harry and Bruno Walter Flooed there a shortly spell later. Harry had briefly questioned the owners of Honeyduke 's, but they had not seen any of the boys.

Harry and Walter ran towards the face lifting at top speeding, not pausing to answering the questioning stare of the lad at the welcome desk. The lifts could not go fast enough for the two men. Harry nearly pulled the room access open when they finally arrived at Magical Law Enforcement 's floor.

The Auror office was slightly more lively than the ease of the Ministry, but not much. Three Aurors were inside, two of whom hastily shoved away a cumulation of Exploding Snap identity card and stood up upon seeing Harry arrive. The former Auror, a rather short but stocky witch, shoved the Koran she was reading in the drawer, and joined the other two.

"Potter, sir !"the witch said,"We thought you were at Hogwarts today !"

"I was,"Harry said darkly and explained the situation.

The three Aurors looked grim as they waited for Harry to give them instructions.

"Dabney,"Harry turned to the taller of the wizards,"Brighton,"he looked at the Wiccan,"Get started with an across-the-board hunt of Hogsmeade. I 'm calling in everyone who is n't busy with anything else. Tiburon and Oswald are on duty in Hogsmeade today, inform them of the situation."

Dabney and Brighton nodded before dashing out of the room. Harry turned to the remaining Auror."Lewster, you will be searching the Forbidden Forest as soon as mortal else arrives."

Harry pulled out his baton and muttered a spell. An tremendous silvery stag flew out of his wand and Harry whispered to it. The Patronus glided out of the room and Harry leaned against the nearest desk.

It was n't long before Harry heard step in the corridor. He looked up at the door just as Ron was running through, followed by half a twelve other Aurors.

"Harry, what 's going on ?"Ron said in a worried tone.

Harry rehashed the entire situation again. Ron 's face paled."What about Rose, was she with them ?"

"No,"Bruno Walter shook his head,"It was just the boys."

"Thank Falco columbarius,"Ron whispered,"But Harry, what about Willinson ? D'you think he 's got anything to do with this ?"

"It 's crossed my nous,"Harry muttered,"But I have n't got a clue as to how Lubar would know him."

"With dark thaumaturgist, you just never know,"Ron pointed out.

"I know,"Harry nodded,"Ron, lead the search of the Forbidden Forest. Lewster 's going with you. And take Daniel and Smith with you."

Ron nodded and left the room, followed by Lewster and two other wizards. The remaining four Aurors looked to Harry.

"The remainder of you can search the rook and evidence. Be discrete. I do not wish to interrupt the Quidditch equal unless it is absolutely requisite,"Harry instructed.

The Aurors left the room and Harry turned to Bruno Walter. He slowly shook his straits. Why was it always Albus ? This was the third year he had gotten into trouble. Albus 's years at Hogwarts were reminding Harry dangerously of his own.

"I 'd better go Floo home and separate Julie what 's going on,"Walter sighed,"She 's going to fall apart."

Harry nodded as Walter left the room. Ginny. Harry snapped his headway up. She was going to be watching the match, but was going to be late. She 's probably there now, Harry thought. She 'd be looking for him.

Harry slowly left the elbow room. How was he going to recite his wife that Albus had been kidnapped and he did n't birth a clue as to where he was ?

******

"You 're just too afraid to do it !"Jarrett shouted at Lubar,"What could possibly go wrongfulness ? We 're center across the world from the Aurors that are looking for this lot !"

"Once again you have proved your stupidity,"Lubar replied,"Do you pull in who we 've taken halfway across the world ? Harry Potter 's son ! You have n't a clue as to how things work in the Ministry !

"I can assure you that at this very moment, the entire Auror Department is looking for them. Harry Potter 's probably got every Auror on this guinea pig. It wo n't take up them long to agnise that we 're not in England.

"And this one,"Lubar gestured to Matt,"He 's got the most meddling parents in the world. They 'd sooner kill everyone in the universe before letting something go on to him. Very irritating. They wo n't rest until they find him. Not to note the fact that he 's the son of a Ministry official. We 've got two kids of two of the most prominent Ministry officials of Britain. Think, Jarrett, think ! We 've got to be careful !"

"fountainhead, you 're the one who wanted to demand the werewolf, too,"Jarrett growled.

"And you 're the one who insisted we take potter 's son !"Lubar shouted,"Why do we even need him ?"

"We just do !"Jarrett shouted back.

"If both of you idiots had n't wanted to lend the kids, we could 've done this solid thing without the Ministry finding out,"Washburn cut in.

"Shut up !"Lubar and Jarrett said at the Lapplander time.

Maybe if they kept arguing, they would n't have a chance to do whatever it was they wanted to do before the Aurors found them, Albus thought. He could only desire that the star would cause enough to argue about.

"Are we going to do it here ?"Jarrett asked,"Or go to the house ?"

"Have you learned nil ?"Lubar shouted,"When they find out that we 're here, the beginning place they 'll look is the house."

"Got any dear ideas ?"Jarrett seethed,"Have you got a mystic little hovel somewhere in this country ?"

"No,"Lubar snapped,"We 're taking them to the outback. Plenty of position to hide out, not very inhabited. Perfect place."

Before Albus could even contemplate running away, Jarrett had his arm in a vice traveling bag again. flatness was once again in the clutches of Lubar, and John and Kaden were both caught by the Willinsons.

Albus knew very little about the Aussie outback, just that it was n't suitable for lots homo habitation. However, the one piece of information he did know about it was that it was where well-nigh of the dementors that used to guard Azkaban had gone. That, and it was a somewhat popular place for vampires.

Lubar and Jarrett had stopped bickering. Albus had two arcsecond to realize what was happening before he felt the conversant but unpleasant sense experience of side-along Apparition.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
A/N : Like the previous chapter, this one goes back and Forth between Albus 's and Harry 's perspectives.


Albus stumbled as he landed, breaking relinquish of Jarrett 's reach. He tripped over a Rock and landed face first in the sand. Spitting the grittiness out of his mouth, he stood up and glanced around.

It was still far too grim to see anything but the outlines of quite a little in the distance. The outback seemed very empty and very quiet. There was a very humble thumping of scrub and Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree nearby, but besides that, Albus did not see a good deal else in the way of plant life.

Albus immediately knew why Lubar had taken them there. He had never been in such a deserted place in his life. There was absolutely nothing around them. Even if Albus had decided to run away, he would n't cause gotten very far. As grave as staying with Lubar was, Albus knew he would have no prospect of surviving if he ran off into the outback.

Lubar seemed to make out that Albus and the others would n't run away. He neglected to use any variety of ropes to tie them up or put any magical spell around them. Instead, he walked a brusque aloofness in the direction of the lot and gestured for the Willinsons and Washburn to comply them.

"What are we going to do ?"trick seethed,"Has anyone got any idea where we are ?"

"The outback 's Brobdingnagian,"Matt replied,"I bet we 're right in the eye of it. The nearest civilization 's probably air mile away."

"So we 're done for,"John groaned,"What do they even want with us anyway ?"

"No estimate,"Albus said,"But if they keep arguing, we might not give to find out out."

"Do you really think your pop are going to be able to observe us ?"John asked skeptically.

"Lubar 's right field,"Albus said,"The whole Ministry 's going to be looking. I think they 'll find us."

"Energy overindulge like this happen every year ?"Kaden asked,"I mean, last year I got kidnapped by Willinson and now we all were. What 'll happen future year ?"

"Hopefully nothing,"Albus said.

"If there is a next year,"John muttered.

"Shut up over there !"Lubar shouted as he walked back over to the boys,"I did n't state you to talk !"

"Lubar !"Jarrett seethed as he pointed to someplace in the length,"There 's masses gathering over there ! We 've got to go somewhere else !"

Albus looked towards where Jarrett was pointing and his heart leapt a bit. There was a pocket-sized gather of fig a few yards away. Could his dad have found them already ?

"calm down,"Lubar said,"They 're just vampires. They wo n't disoblige us. I know that coven. They know in force than to mess with me. I 'll take in sprightliness pretty miserable for them if they do."

"Cutting deals with lamia now ?"Jarrett asked.

"Proving to be helpful, is n't it ?"Lubar answered.

Albus 's hopes sank once again. Lubar seemed more confusing than ever. He cut deals for vampires but passed restrictive Pentateuch on werewolves ? It did n't arrive at sense.

The men lowered their voices again and Albus wished he had a few extendable spike with him. He did n't dare mouth to his supporter, just sent them anxious glimpse every now and then.

A coldness winding blew over them and Albus shivered. It was the form of cold that chilled him to the bone. Hoping that it was n't going to rain down, or snow ( was n't it winter in Commonwealth of Australia ? ), he looked to the sky. There were no clouds, but what Albus saw was very much worse than clouds.

Five or six cloaked trope were slowly circling above them. Although he had never before seen one, Albus recognized them as dementors immediately. Despite the iniquity, Albus could clearly pee out their conformation. As they got closer, he could even discover their rale breath.

The macrocosm in social movement of him began to swim. He felt like he was going to hap out, but he knew it was just the dementors sucking all the felicity out of him. Albus was left with all his dysphoric thoughts.

His dad was n't going to find them. They would be stuck on the Aussie outback until Lubar and the others did what they were going to do. Then who knew what would pass ?

"No, no, no !"flatness shouted.

Albus squeezed his center shut and then opened them, forcing himself to look towards his friend. matt was kneeling on the flat coat, shaking violently. Both John and Kaden were looking at him anxiously, neither seeming to be that affected by the dementors.

Of line the dementors would bear on lusterlessness the worst. He had gone through things that Albus, St. John the Apostle, and Kaden could n't even ideate. It probably did n't help that Lubar was actually demonstrate, either.

Without even thinking, Albus pulled his wand out of his robes. He 'd heard the incantation for the Patronus spell before and figured it was worth a pellet. What else could he do besides try ?

"Expecto Patronum !"Albus shouted, pointing his wand at the sky. nix happened.

A happy thought ! How could he hold forgotten that ? It was hard to think of one with dementors flying over heard and listening to mat shouting on the ground.

When the categorisation Hat put him in Gryffindor ! Albus pointed his wand to the sky again."Expecto Patronum ! Expecto Patronum !"

Albus kept shouting the incantation while using versatile happy memories. aught was happening, but matt 's yelling was decreasing. Then it stopped. Albus stopped and looked towards the reason. It looked like Matt had passed out.

Thinking of the day Balladanis had been sacked, Albus pointed his wand at the dementors once again."Expecto Patronum !"he shouted.

A silvery blob exploded from his baton and went after the dementors. Albus stood shocked for a few minute. He had variety of done a Patronus good luck charm !

"Bloody hell,"lav whispered.

"Expecto Patronum !"someone shouted from the distance.

Albus looked up and saw Lubar running game at them with his baton pointed at the dementors. A silvery squirrel was floating ahead of him and the dementors scattered as it reached them.

Albus 's foggy wit immediately cleared and the felicity returned. He quickly stowed his wand in his gown before Lubar thought to unarm him.

"Leave him,"Lubar growled at John and Kaden, who were bent-grass to the priming trying to get Matt to ignite up.

"Dementors !"Washburn shouted sarcastically,"This was a blooming brilliant place to come."

Lubar paid no attention to Washburn 's input. His eyes were focused on Albus and he was giving him a very curious look. Albus took a nervous step back, but Lubar did not forfend his regard. Albus immediately closed his mind.

******

"Potter, sir !"

Harry, who had been walking up high school Street in Hogsmeade with Ginny, turned around and saw Lewster striding towards him. Harry stopped, hoping he had some estimable news.

"What is it, Lewster ?"Harry asked.

"Just talked to a few of the Centaur,"Lewster said,"They saw three wizards in the forest a few hours ago. They recognized one of them as Washburn."

"I 'd bet my utmost Galleon the former two were the Willinsons,"Harry replied,"Did the centaur know anything else ?"

"Just that Washburn and the others were looking for something. Apparently they were scouring the forest floor for something,"Lewster answered.

Harry nodded. That did n't storm him. The Resurrection Stone was someplace in the timber."Did you see anything ?"

"No,"Lewster shook his head teacher,"And the Centaur are pretty certainly they 've left."

"Very well,"Harry said,"See what else you can find out."

Lewster left and Harry turned to Ginny, who looked afraid.

"Harry, you do n't think that Washburn is with Lubar, do you ?"Ginny asked.

"There 's no doubt in my brain,"Harry answered,"It 's just a issue of finding them. Listen, I 've got to go search Dervish and Banges. I 've got this intuition about the place. Seems like the perfect seat for Washburn to take them."

Ginny nodded."I 'll go enamour the end of the compeer. I wo n't mention anything to James and Lily yet."

"Good,"Harry said,"I 'll be in ghost soon."He kissed her lightly on the forehead."We 're going to come up him."

"I know,"Ginny replied softly,"stoppage safe."

Ginny turned around to walk back to the Hogwarts solid ground while Harry picked up the pace and walked the brusk distance to Dervish and Banges.

The building looked utterly abandoned. The windows were still boarded up, the grass overgrown around it. It certainly did n't await like anyone was hiding inside, but Harry had to check.

Pulling out his baton, he crept cautiously to the room access. He carefully pulled the boards off of it and quietly wrenched the threshold afford. Without lighting his verge, he walked inside.

The billet had the smell of a Recent epoch flaming in the open fireplace. person had been there. However, there was not a strait from anywhere in the building. Harry lit his scepter and saw that it was deserted.

After a thoroughgoing check of the entire building, in which Harry found no living creatures, he returned to the principal room. The open fireplace was filled with nearly dead ember and there was a minuscule pile of Floo pulverisation spilled out onto the floor.

The Floo had been used recently. Harry bent down and muttered an incantation that would recite him where the finally person to use the fireplace had Flooed from. He waited for the incantation to work, his heart hammer.

Soft red dope emitted from his wand, curling together to mold the word 'Ministry of trick .'Harry breathed a sigh of relief. He was getting somewhere. Without hardly a doubt, Harry knew that Albus and the other boy had wound up in Dervish and Banges after going to the Ministry. The lonesome doubtfulness was, where had they gone after that ?

******

"How old are you, Potter ?"Lubar asked.

"XIII,"Albus replied, still a bit spooky as to why Lubar was looking at him like that. It reminded him of how Balladanis had looked at him during the second dueling tournament.

"And they teach the Patronus appealingness to thirteen-year-olds at Hogwarts ?"Lubar replied.

"No,"Albus shook his headland, although when he thought about it, Balladanis may have taught him and Malfoy Patronuses if he had n't gotten sacked."That was the first fourth dimension I 'd tried it."

"Very intriguing,"Lubar said as he turned to the other three men,"This lot did n't secern me you were skilled at defensive magic."

"You never asked,"Jarrett muttered,"But is ceramicist 's aptitude for Patronuses really relevant to what we 're doing ?"

"It matters if they decide to try and hex us !"Lubar snapped,"I think it might be best if they 're all wandless."

Albus gulped and clenched his verge harder. He glanced at flatness, who was still unconscious. John did n't experience his wand. Kaden was n't very dear at dueling. It would be up to him, to Albus, if this came to a duel.

"The sole one who 's got any acquisition is Potter,"Jarrett said,"The other three are n't going to be difficult."

"Fine,"Lubar muttered,"We 'll get started, but I need to talk to you three away from them first."

Jarrett nodded and the men walked a few railyard away and began whispering too quietly for Albus to hear.

Albus bent down to where mat had collapsed, wishing he knew a healing spell or two."Matt, lustrelessness,"he whispered,"Wake up."

After a minute or two, Matt 's eyes fluttered outdoors and he sat up."What happened ?"he asked, looking around confusedly.

"You passed out,"Albus told him,"When the dementors were here."

"But Albus cast a Patronus !"Gospel According to John said excitedly.

"You what ?"Matt gaped at him.

"It was just silver mist,"Albus told him,"Lubar 's actually the one who got rid of them."

"Probably just for his interest,"Matt shuddered,"Did anyone else pass out ?"The other three son shook their capitulum."Figures,"Matt muttered.

"You need some chocolate or something,"Albus said,"Anyone got some ?"

"mightiness,"Kaden began fishing around in his air pocket. He produced a chocolate frog and handed it to lustrelessness, who took it without saying a word.

"Listen,"Albus said,"Whatever it is that they want to do here, they 're doing it soon. Do you opine you can get up ?"

lusterlessness nodded and Albus helped him to his ft. Lubar and the others were walking towards them again. Albus slowly pulled his wand out of his robe and held it to his face, hiding it partially behind his back.

Lubar conjured a pile of wood and set fire to it, illuminating himself, Washburn, the Willinsons, and the boys. Albus was now clearly able to see the bend facial expression on Lubar 's grimace.

"Are you mad ?"Jarrett seethed,"fervor 's going to attract care !"

Lubar laughed."Fire 's going to insure that those lamia stay away and we 've got to see what we 're doing !"

Albus glanced towards where the vampires had been congregating. They were currently walking farther away from Albus and the others. Thinking back to Linda 's boggart, he remembered that vampires are destroyed by attack. Albus turned back to the men.

Jarrett was holding something out in his hand, but Albus could n't make out what it was. Jarrett, along with Quinton and Washburn, looked quite excited. Lubar looked mildly annoyed and impatient.

"Do you recognize what this is, Potter ?"Jarrett asked gleefully.

"No,"Albus said, trying not to go too nervous.

"It 's the Christ's Resurrection Harlan Fisk Stone,"Jarrett answered.

Albus could hardly conceal his pant as he peered penny-pinching at Jarrett 's outstretched mitt. There was a very low rock sitting in it. The Resurrection Stone. One of the Deathly Hallows. Jarrett had finally succeeded in getting one of the three objects he had been after for year. But how ?

"How ?"Albus asked, trying to go confident.

"Ancient magic is a beautiful thing, ceramist,"Jarrett answered,"There are long forgotten spells, spells that oeuvre very nicely with longsighted forgotten magical object such as this Stone. It was merely a subject of finding the correct go, getting to the Forbidden wood, and putting it to use. Quite unsubdivided now that I look back on it."

"Only because you did n't do any of the body of work,"Lubar muttered,"It was I who found the piece !"

"The early Hallows will prove to be easy to hold with the helper of this,"Jarrett went on, ignoring Lubar 's mutterings.

Albus did not like the sound of that. The Isidor Feinstein Stone itself did one thing and that was bring back the heart of people who had passed on. How would that help oneself Jarrett get the former Hallows ?

The Invisibility Cloak. Albus 's tummy plummeted. It was still in his gown. He really hoped Jarrett would n't realize that.

"Another thing that I thought of !"Lubar seethed.

"You think this lot cares who did what ?"Jarrett laughed.

"Oh, just get on with it,"Washburn rolled his eyes.

Jarrett sidestepped past the ardour and strode cheeseparing to Albus. Albus took a step back as his warmheartedness started beating faster. He had a very bad feeling about what Jarrett was going to do with that Stone.

"Ah, yes, Potter. You should be afraid,"Jarrett 's gaze swept over all four son,"You should all be afraid."

"Quit taunting them and just do it,"Washburn said impatiently.

"With this stone,"Jarrett said a bit louder,"I will bring back Lord Voldemort."

******

Harry burst out of Dervish and Banges, not caring that he had blasted the door completely off its flexible joint as he did so. He had to come up Walter. He had to find Walter and then go to the Ministry. The fireplace did not show signs that it had been used to Floo away from the abandoned shop. That left either apparition or a Portkey, both of which would hold left shadow that he 'd take the Department of Magical Transportation for.

Harry rounded a corner as he ran towards Honeyduke 's and nearly ran headlong into a witch. He stepped back and saw it was Ginny. She wore a strange look of confusion and blow, mixed with jumble fear.

"Ginny,"Harry said,"Sorry."

"Not a job,"she said quickly,"Have you found anything ?"

"Yes,"Harry answered,"Is the peer over ? How badly did we mislay by ?"

"Only a 100 points,"Ginny said,"But we might not have actually lost. Listen, did you know Australia 's Seeker is a vampire ?"

"delay, what ?"Harry gaped at her, trying to roll his creative thinker around that fact while still focusing his mind on Albus.

"I 'll explain after we 've found Albus,"Ginny said.

"Right,"Harry agreed,"I 've got a lead. somebody was in Dervish and Banges. They Flooed there from the Ministry ; I 'm sure it was Al and the others. I 've got to find Walter and go to the Ministry. I 'm not sure where that will lead us, but I might not be back for a while."

"Just be deliberate,"Ginny said as she gave him a buss,"And bring in him back."

"I will,"Harry said as he kissed her back,"I 'll see you soon."

"Harry !"

Harry turned and saw Walter striding out of Honeyduke 's. With one last look at Ginny, Harry met Walter half-way.

"We 've got to get to the Ministry,"Harry said immediately, and explained about what he had found at Dervish and Banges and what Lewster had learned from the centaurs.

Walter nodded and the two men Disapparated on the spot. They reappeared a picayune while later in a small spectre chamber in the Ministry.

Passing the bewildered looking security sentry duty for the third sentence that day, Harry and Walter ran to the lifts. Neither of them said a word as the lift clattered to the department of Magical Transportation.

The department was nearly deserted, deliver for one very bored looking hag sitting at a desk.

"Mr. thrower, Mr. Eckerton !"she exclaimed as she took her metrical foot off the desk,"Something I can do for you ?"

"Yes,"Harry answered,"I need to sleep together if anyone 's Disapparated from Dervish and Banges in Hogsmeade. Or used a Portkey from that same localisation. And if you 're capable to, I need to be intimate where they went."

"Of class, Mr. ceramicist, of course of instruction,"the witch said as she got up. She disappeared into another elbow room, shutting the door behind her.

Harry sighed and sat down on the nearest death chair. Bruno Walter sat down in the adjacent one, looking thoroughly miserable.

"We 'll find them,"Harry said quietly.

"I do n't doubt that,"Walter replied,"However, that is not the only thing I am occupy about. The in conclusion sentence flatness had an altercation with Ralph Lubar, he wound up in therapy for calendar month afterwards."

Harry was not expecting that. He did not have a go at it much about therapy, except that adept did not normally use it. Whatever had happened, it must deliver been bad.

"Do you mind if I ask what happened ?"Harry asked, not sure if he was overstepping some sort of boundary.

Walter did not verbalize for respective seconds."It 's ok,"Harry said,"You do n't take in to explain."

"I will,"Walter said quietly,"Shortly after Matt was bitten, I became the forefront of the Department for the ordinance and controller of Magical Creatures in Commonwealth of Australia. cypher outside of the department knew about his circumstance, of track. Ralph Lubar was given my late emplacement of pass of the loup-garou Control Unit, and was quite covetous that I was given the brain military position. He could not get over the fact that I was given it, even when my own son had lycanthropy.

"It was a score he held against me for many years, until the day finally came when he cracked and let it sneak that Matt was a wolfman. A bit of legislation had been passed that required all places of shift be inspected by the Ministry. Lubar inspected Matt 's and it failed on a triviality. Ministry shopping center were set up for werewolves to transform in, together. Matt was required by law to transform there since his safe room did not pass. I refused to have him transform there. The papers were all over it. I lost my job. Lubar was appointed to the Head position.

"More statute law was passed. A law that stated that Ministry officials could physically force loup-garou into the transformation centerfield. On the day of the full moon, Lubar Flooed into our house and took Matt to the eye. By the prison term I figured out which center it was, the Moon had risen. It was too late.

"flatness spent weeks in St. Mungo 's. By that time we were nearly ready to propel here. He was so shock, it took calendar month for him to get over it. To be honorable, I do n't think he 's fully over it.

"The only if reason Lubar did it was to try and get to me. That 's why he 's so fed up and convolute,"Walter finished as he put his promontory in his hands,"I swore I 'd never let him near matt again. Swore I 'd obliterate him if he went near lusterlessness again.

Walter gave an odd kind of joke."Listen to me, I 'm telling the Head of the Auror Department that I 'd commit murder."

"Just so long as you do n't actually do it when we go carry through the son,"Harry said, still processing what Walter had told him. It certainly explained a lot- why they were so reluctant to let Matt out of their ken, why they were n't on the Floo Network.

One thing that Harry could assure was that Walter blamed himself for everything that had happened. Honestly, Harry was n't surprised. If something like that had happened to James, Albus, or Lily, he would 've blamed himself, too.

"That was n't your fracture,"Harry said quietly,"And this is n't either."

"If I had just Flooed ahead of the boys-"

"It would n't have mattered,"Harry interrupted,"And it 'll do no good to dwell on it now. It 's in the past."

"That 's exactly what my Brother said when lusterlessness was in St. Mungo 's,"Bruno Walter said wryly.

"Mr. ceramicist !"the beldam came bustling out of the room she had gone into, brandishing a musical composition of parchment, which she handed to Harry.

Harry stood up as she handed them the parchment. His oculus scanned the parchment. Portkeys. Four Portkeys had left Dervish and Banges a few inadequate time of day ago. That in itself did not shock Harry, especially compared to where the Portkeys had gone.

"Australia,"Harry read as he turned to Walter, who had visibly paled at the word,"They 're in Australia."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the amazing masses who have read and left such lovely revue !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
A/N : Like the previous chapters, this one is also split between Albus and Harry 's perspectives.


Never had Albus wished so hard that he could Apparate. Why did you have to be seventeen to get your Apparition license anyway ? If he ever worked in the Department of Magical transportation, he would modify that law. phantom would 've enabled him to get out of Australia, away from Jarrett Willinson, who was trying to wreak back Creator Voldemort with the Resurrection Stone.

Albus could not recall being more scared in his life. This was far worse than when he had dueled Washburn on the Hogwarts grounds two years ago, far defective than when Quinton kidnapped Kaden the late yr. Creator Voldemort was far scarier than Lubar, Washburn, and the Willinsons combined.

What would Voldemort look like when Jarrett brought him back ? Harry had said the Stone could n't actually bring people back to aliveness. Albus guessed he 'd be more like a shade. But would he be able to do magic, to perform the jinx and curse he did when he was animated ?

Albus held his breath as he watched Jarrett turn the stone over in his hands. Albus had no idea how it worked, but judging by how tranquillise all of the adults were, Jarrett was trying to use it.

Over and over again Jarrett turned the stone. He did it for so long that Albus had to let out his breath. The excite gleam on Jarrett 's face slowly dissipated until it was replaced by frustration.

"Why wo n't it work ?"Jarrett shouted,"Are you positive this is the rightfield Harlan Fisk Stone ?"

"Of grade I am !"Lubar shouted as he grabbed the Stone,"The charm said it was !"

"Well, it 's not working now, is it ?"Jarrett mocked.

Albus breathed a sigh of succour. Either they had the wrong stone or for whatever rationality, Voldemort could n't be brought back with it. Albus was hoping for the former.

Lubar turned the stone over in his hands. On the tierce routine, a foreign kind of mist appeared in front of him. Albus 's heart sped up. It had worked.

The mist began to clear and a figure was standing in strawman of Lubar. The figure was not Lord Voldemort, though. Albus had no approximation who had been resurrected, but it certainly was not Voldemort. This somebody was a woman, and a scant one at that.

Washburn and the Willinsons were exchanging curious glance. Lubar, however, was staring directly at the figure, his face contorted with something Albus could only assume was sadness.

"M-mother ?"Lubar said as he stepped closer to the woman.

"You idiot !"Jarrett shouted,"That 's not Voldemort !"

"I know that !"Lubar snapped and the looked back to the woman, who was apparently his mother,"Mum."

"Ralphy,"the womanhood replied.

"I-it 's been so long,"Lubar whispered.

Albus turned to his friends, who were all staring in discombobulation at Lubar. flatness in particular was giving Lubar a very strange flavour. Apparently the stone was the resurrection Stone and it did indeed work, just not in the way Jarrett had been planning.

"Very long,"Lubar 's mother agreed,"But you 've done well. I 'm very gallant of you, son."

Albus had to cover his mouth to hold back his snort. What kind of female parent could be proud of what Lubar had done ?

"I 've tried,"Lubar said,"I swore I would after, after what happened."

"You have,"Lubar 's mum replied,"You 've done me proud."

"Oh for Merlin 's sake !"Jarrett shouted as he ran towards Lubar.

Lubar seemed to have forgotten that there were former people around. He jumped as Jarrett advanced and Jarrett grabbed the Stone out of his hand.

Lubar 's mother began to fade as soon as Jarrett took the stone. Running towards her, Lubar held out his helping hand trying to sustain her there.

"No !"he shouted,"Mum !"

Mere seconds after Lubar 's mother completely disappeared, Lubar had his wand out and was holding it up at Jarrett. Jarrett had taken out his own wand, but neither man was hurling whammy. Washburn and Quinton had taken a few tone back.

"You arse !"Lubar shouted,"That was my mother !"

"I know !"Jarrett replied,"That 's why I did it ! We 're trying to get back Voldemort here, not your messed up mum !"

"Do not insult my female parent,"Lubar seethed and flicked his wand.

Jarrett fell to the ground, completely unable to act. Lubar stood over him with his verge directed at his chest.

"My mother was a lovely person,"Lubar growled,"You 're spew to be speaking ill of the dead like that."

Albus did n't really think Lubar should be talking about who is nauseated and who is n't. Nor did he guess his mother was particularly lovely. Never before had Albus thought he 'd agree with Jarrett Willinson on anything, but when it came to Lubar 's female parent, he did.

"Better they hex each other than us, right ?"John muttered.

"trade good distributor point,"Albus replied.

"Can we delight just get back to bringing back Voldemort ?"Washburn drawled loudly,"I was under the impression that that 's what we were here for, not to insult each former 's mothers."

Lubar turned his baton on Washburn."Have you anything to say about my mother ? Well, do you ?"

Washburn hastily pulled out his own wand."Er, no, she seemed quite lovely."

"good,"Lubar said manically,"Keep it that way, or you 'll end up like him."Lubar gestured to Jarrett, who was still laying paralyzed on the basis, his eye darting about nervously.

******

"Australia,"Bruno Walter said weakly,"Bloody hell."

"I 'll need you to repeat that Portkey,"Harry said to the witch, who nodded and left the room again.

"Walter,"Harry began,"I am nearly one hundred percent sure that Jarrett and Quinton Willinson, as well as Jameson Washburn are working with Lubar. I am nearly positive that they are with the boy in Australia."

"Right,"Walter agreed,"The evidence surely points that way."

"There is something about that probe that hardly anyone in the Ministry knows,"Harry lowered his voice,"Nearly a year ago, after Quinton was sent to Azkaban, the Ministry decided that the Auror department needed some assist with capturing the other two. The Minister hired a Presuler."

Bruno Walter let out a low whistling and then realization dawned on his boldness."Wait, you do n't mean-"

"Aplysia Balladanis,"Harry said quietly,"Yes, he was the Presuler the Ministry hired. Stationed at Hogwarts under the pretence of teaching defence Against the Dark Arts."

"Bad idea on the rector 's component part,"Walter muttered.

"It was my theme to station him at Hogwarts,"Harry replied,"But I did not have a go at it that he would be such an awful teacher."

"I wo n't hold it against you,"Walter said.

"I appreciate that,"Harry said,"However, since Balladanis is a part of this investigation, I have to contact him and he will have to go with us to Australia. I understand that you have had your difference of opinion, but-"

"If he helps to regain Matt, I will forgive him for everything he 's done,"Walter interrupted.

"Here you are, Mr. Potter, Mr. Eckerton,"the witch returned holding a misshapen plastic container, which she handed to Harry."If I can be of anymore assistance, let me know."

"That 's it for now,"Harry said as he took the container,"Thanks."

******

Albus stood flash-frozen as the four men dueled each other. wholly unsure of what to do, yet very happy that they seemed to let momentarily forgotten about the boy, Albus just stood there watching. lusterlessness, John, and Kaden did the same, although John looked more than a bit apprehensive, most likely due to his want of a wand.

Washburn had attempted to hold the rock from Lubar, who had taken it back from Jarrett, shortly after Lubar had stunned Jarrett. Apparently Lubar did not remove kindly to this and bewitch Washburn. In the mean time, the Stunner had worn off Jarrett and he attempted to hex Lubar.

All four men were running around, throwing hexes at each early while dodging the fire. Albus was variety of hoping one of them would head trip and burn their limb or something. Or even upright, maybe one or more than of them would discharge their wand into the fire.

Washburn and the Willinsons were definitely bad for article of clothing. All three of them were sporting harm. Both Willinsons were limping and Washburn 's get out arm was being held at an odd angle.

Lubar seemed fine and even though it appeared that the other three were siding against him, he was coming off better. Albus had to accept that he was very skilled at dueling.

Lubar shot a jet of red light at Washburn, who went flying over the ardour and landed with a sickening thud in front of the boy. He did not move. Albus looked down and saw a small stone adjacent to Washburn 's promontory. He bent and picked it up. It was the Resurrection Stone.

Albus stood up and jumped back. Lubar, Jarrett, and Quinton had all advanced towards him. Three sceptre were pointed at his pectus, being held by three masses with maniacal glimmer in their eyes.

Albus gulped and held up his own scepter, his arm shaking slightly. matt and Kaden had done the same. John tried to shroud behind Matt, but was stillborn since he was a effective brain taller than him.

"hand it over, potter,"Lubar growled.

With a defiant look at Lubar, Albus hastily shoved the Harlan Fiske Stone into the pouch of his gown and held his verge up higher.

******

"Balladanis."

"Eckerton."

Harry watched as the two men stared at each other. Balladanis had Flooed to the Ministry shortly after receiving Harry 's Patronus. Harry had filled him in on what was going on, but the man had n't taken his eye off of Bruno Walter the entire fourth dimension.

"We have n't got meter for this,"Harry muttered and held out the plastic container,"Let 's just go."

Walter agreed immediately and laid his manus on the Portkey. Balladanis did so as well, with a little hesitation.

With a conversant jerked meat behind his naval, Harry disappeared from the Ministry. The Portkey slip was a bit longer than ones Harry was used to, but it did n't surprise him since he knew they were going to Australia.

Harry landed softly on his feet and held out his baton as he adjusted to the surroundings. It was pitch black and after he lit his sceptre, Harry knew they were in the middle of a forest.

The forest was disappointingly tranquility. The only strait were those of fauna and the occasional whisper of trees, brought about by the wind. Not a single sound caused Harry to believe that there were people about, let alone his son.

"cattle ranch out and search,"Harry announced. The place may seem deserted, but Albus and the others had been there at some period. They had Portkeyed there.

None of the wizards said a word as they combed the area. Harry left no Stone unturned as he looked for the smallest shadow of evidence of where his son had gone. If only it was n't night. wand did n't leave nearly enough light.

There seemed to be not a trace of anything that showed anyone had been in that area of the forest, let alone where they had gone afterwards. Ralph Lubar was good at this, that was for sure. Harry swore as he returned to the like spot he had started from.

Walter returned a few transactions later, looking even more anxious than he did before."cipher,"he muttered,"Not a ripped piece of music of cloak or a single Canute the Great. They did n't stay here long."

Harry groaned and scuffed the ground with his shoe. He and Walter stood quietly as they waited for Balladanis to return.

Balladanis came running towards Harry holding a humble metal instrument in his hired hand and an strange form of energise smirk on his face. He skidded to a stay in strawman of Harry, holding out the cat's-paw. Harry recognized it as an Apparition detector. They were quite rarefied. The British Ministry only owned one, for the entire Ministry.

"They 've Disapparated,"Balladanis said hurriedly.

"Obviously,"Walter muttered,"Any idea where ?"

"A general estimate, yes,"Balladanis replied, ignoring Walter 's sarcastic tone,"They 're on the outback."

"The outback ?"Walter gasped,"Dammit, there 's dementors out there !"

"I am aware,"Balladanis said.

"Let 's go, then,"Harry said, placing one of his hands on the metal instrument. It would be able to take them to the congeneric expanse they needed to go.

Walter put his paw on the cat's-paw as well and with an exceptionally loud fissure, all three men Disapparated.

They landed on terrain that was very unfamiliar to Harry. The ground was dusty and sandy and there was hardly any industrial plant living in muckle. In the distance there were tall raft and cloaked figures floated above them. Harry suppressed a tremor and gripped his scepter tighter. Dementors.

What looked like a roaring bonfire blazed in the distance. Harry glanced at it suspiciously and then looked back to Bruno Walter and Balladanis, both of whom were more familiar with the area.

"Only vampires and dementors ever venture out here,"Balladanis said quietly,"Neither of whom would set a fire."

"Let 's go, then,"Harry said and began to moderate the small chemical group towards the flickering illumination in the distance.

******

"hired hand it over, thrower,"Lubar repeated.

Albus gulped and tried to hold his wand more steady. His wand arm was shaking uncontrollably and Albus did n't appear to be able to hold it steadily. His heart was thumping hard in his chest. Albus was for sure everyone was able to hear it. However, he did not want to give up the endocarp. That was one thing he was sure of. The only way Lubar would be getting it is if he killed Albus first. Which actually, was n't something Albus would put retiring him.

"Maybe you should just hand it to him,"St. John the Apostle whispered,"I mean, it did n't work to get Voldemort back."

"No,"Albus seethed, surprised that John had suggested it. He probably would n't have if he still had his wand.

"Do you really want to have to duel me, ceramist ?"Lubar stepped a bit closer,"There 's three of us and four of you, one of which does n't take a baton. Not good odds, if you ask me."

"And do you recognize that those two are horrible duelers ?"Albus replied.

"I have noticed,"Lubar smirked,"But they 're fully qualified ; you are not. I 'm going to get that gem, one way or another."

Lubar flicked his wand and sent a jet of orange light at Albus. Albus jumped back and threw up a shell charm, concentrating on making it big enough to harbour him and his supporter. It worked and the Orange River light bounced harmlessly off the shield and hit the ground.

"halt behind me, King John,"Albus muttered,"flatness and Kaden, spread out and hit them with whatever spells you know."

Albus concentrated on keeping his shield up while casting other spell, like he had done in Balladanis 's dueling lessons. So far it was working, but Albus never managed to keep on the shield up very long.

Lubar was momentarily stunned when he saw Albus 's carapace, but he quickly recovered and began sending hex after hex, nonverbally, at Albus and toilet. Concentrating grueling, Albus sent a Stunner at Lubar, but he flicked his wand and it shot off into the distance, hitting one of the lone Dubyuh, which promptly caught fire.

Albus chanced a coup d'oeil at Matt and Kaden. lustrelessness was dueling with Jarrett and it looked like they were pretty equally matched, which was form of pitiful as far as Jarrett was concerned. It made Albus feel better though. Quinton and Kaden just seemed to be sending Expelliarmus spell at each other and missing every time.

The carapace emitting from Albus 's baton faltered and faded a bit. Albus renewed his denseness, but the shell was still weaker than it had been before. There was no way he 'd be able to air any tour through the shield now.

"Your buckler is weakening, thrower,"Lubar smirked as he sent another peach at Albus, which shook the shield.

"Merlin !"Quinton shouted to the right of them. He was hopping on one metrical foot and Kaden was laughing hysterically. Albus grinned. Kaden had actually managed to do some form of hex, although Albus was n't sure what one it was.

Lubar turned to Quinton and flicked his wand at Kaden. Kaden promptly froze and fell to the earth. Albus gasped and his cuticle disappeared.

"Albus !"bathroom shouted.

Albus turned back to Lubar, but did n't get the shield back up before Lubar shot a hex at can, who fell to the priming like Kaden had.

"Would n't it be easier just to move over me the gem ?"Lubar asked as he sent a Stunner at Albus.

Albus deflected it."Not really."

Jarrett and Matt were still dueling. Both were sporting a few injuries, but nothing too life-threatening. Neither seemed to take in noticed that John and Kaden were Stunned.

Albus managed to hit Lubar with a trip jinx, which gave him a few arcsecond to fascinate his breath while Lubar righted himself. Unfortunately this only angered him and he was now sporting a gash across his get out cheek.

"Expelliarmus !"Lubar shouted.

Albus jumped to the face and the spell hit a nearby Rock. Lubar resumed his nonverbal spells and Albus continued deflecting them and dodging them, too exhausted to try and hit Lubar with any other jinxes.

"You ca n't hold open dodging them forever, Potter !"Lubar grinned manically.

"Watch me,"Albus said defiantly.

Albus of line knew that Lubar was right. The odds had not really changed. whoremaster and Kaden were both out of the conflict and while John the Divine was easily the best duelist after Albus, his absence seizure did not put Albus greatly behind. Washburn was out as well and both Willinsons were injured. Quinton was currently on his knee panting, not in any frame to continue dueling. Matt was holding his own against Jarrett, something Albus was both amazed and enchant by.

No, Albus was not trying to overwhelm Lubar. He knew that would n't be possible. Albus was merely biding for time. He tried to figure out how long they 'd been gone as he dodged spells. It must have been at least three or four hours, although the colored Aboriginal Australian sky had not changed a bit. Albus wished the moon had been out so he could bear monitored its trip-up across the sky.

How long would it adopt his dad to observe them ? thirster than normal, Albus thought. They were in the eye of a foreign body politic, nowhere near anyplace Harry would be looking.

"I 'm getting annoyed, thrower, and you do n't want to see me when I 'm annoyed !"Lubar shouted, sending another jet of red Light at Albus.

Before Albus even had time to register what sorting of hex it was, matt gave a shriek of pain to Albus 's right and collapsed to the ground. Jarrett wasted no time and pointed his wand at Albus.

Albus took a fraction of a second to digest the fact that he was now absolutely alone, facing two fully maturate wizard. The two hotshot crack identical jets of blue visible radiation at Albus and he managed to draw in up a decrepit shield.

The force hit him like a XII Bludgers to the belly. He lost his footing and landed monotonic on his back, his brain hitting a particularly shrewd John Rock.

"I told you not to fight, ceramicist,"Lubar sneered as he loomed over Albus.

"You 're not getting the Stone,"Albus said, forcing away the lightheadedness. He reached into his robes and pulled out the Stone.

"I disagree,"Lubar said as he made to grab the Stone.

With all the force Albus could muster, he threw the Harlan F. Stone as far as he could to the right. In the dark, it disappeared in a split endorse and Albus did n't even hear it land.

"No !"Lubar shouted,"You 'll pay for that !"

"Wands where I can see them !"someone shouted from behind Lubar.

Lubar and Jarrett whipped around as fast as they could. Albus lifted his head slightly and caught a glimpse of his dad, along with a few former star. He breathed a suspiration of rilievo. They were saved.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the lovely hoi polloi who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus managed to sit up right before the hexes started flying. Realizing that he dropped his wand when Lubar and Jarrett hexed him, he groped about for it on the priming. Not finding it, he crawled behind a nearby George W. Bush and watched.

Jarrett did n't stupefy around long. He sent one pathetic ravisher at Harry, who easily deflected it, and disappeared on the spotlight. Harry immediately disarmed Lubar before he could do the same.

Once Lubar was defenseless, Albus left the safe of the President George W. Bush and shakily stood up. He reached the flack and was able to see who the former two wizards next to Harry were. What he saw made him dizzy with shock all over again.

The shorter of the two was lustrelessness 's dad. He was staring stony faced at Lubar. Albus had never seen anyone glare at anyone else with such hatred and loathing as lusterlessness 's dad glared at Lubar. And that included when his Uncle Ron talked about the Malfoys, or his mum when somebody mentioned Vernon and genus Petunia Dursley.

It was the other mavin that nearly caused Albus to clear out in shock. He was none early than Professor Balladanis. What in the name of Merlin was he doing there ? It looked like he was actually with Harry and Matt 's dad. But why ? Did n't matte 's dad hate Balladanis ?

"Eckerton, what a pleasant surprise,"Lubar smirked.

"Lubar, if we were n't in the bearing of an Auror and a Presuler I 'd rip you limb from arm, Muggle style,"Mr. Eckerton growled.

Albus was slightly stunned by Mr. Eckerton 's choice of words, but remembering what lusterlessness had told him at the beginning of the year, all surprise left him.

"Lucky for me potter and Balladanis are here, then,"Lubar replied and snatched Washburn 's wand off the ground.

Harry, Mr. Eckerton, and Balladanis all sent dissimilar while at Lubar at the like time, but it was too recently. He was already gone. Mr. Eckerton swore loudly.

"Two ai n't bad,"Balladanis muttered as he gestured to Washburn and Quinton, the latter of whom was still conscious but not completely aware of his surroundings.

"That 's the glaring remainder between you and I,"Mr. Eckerton muttered as he moved swiftly past Quinton and Washburn to reach Matt.

"Dad !"Albus shouted.

Harry looked up from Kaden 's unconscious form and raced towards Albus. Albus threw his subdivision around his dad and the two of them hugged each early tightly.

"Al, thank Falco columbarius,"Harry said.

"Dad, what 's Balladanis doing here ?"Albus asked immediately,"And Lubar, what 's going to happen to him ? And Willinson ?"

"I 'll explain it all once we get you back to Hogwarts,"Harry assured him.

Balladanis had a business firm hold on both Washburn and Quinton and was fiddling with a broken charge card cup. A few seconds later, all three of them disappeared.

Harry turned to Mr. Eckerton, who was standing up with lustrelessness in his weaponry."Can you take John Lackland, too ? I 'll get Kaden and Al will come up with me."

Mr. Eckerton nodded and grabbed clasp of whoremonger 's arm before pulling his own broken plastic cup out of his pocket. They disappeared.

Harry pulled Kaden up and took Albus 's arm. Albus was still thoroughly confused, but did not have metre to ask his dad anymore questions before feeling the associate jerk behind his naval that signified he was traveling by Portkey.

Albus landed with a thud in the middle of the Hospital Wing. The question of how they managed to Portkey inside the Hogwarts grounds was the least squeeze motion on his mind.

Looking around, Albus saw that the others had arrived as well. Mr. Eckerton was laying both flatness and john on the nearest layer while Madam Pomfrey was shouting and gathering potions.

"looking at the State Department of them !"the nurse exclaimed,"Always this lot, too ! You 're a bad influence on them, Harry, I swear !"

Harry looked slightly sheepish as he set Kaden down on the bed next to matt 's and then turned to Albus.

"I 've got to utter with prof Kendrick and go to the Ministry-"he began.

"But Dad !"Albus interrupted,"What was Balladanis doing there ?"

"I promise I 'll enjoin you all of that and to a greater extent,"Harry replied,"But I need to state everyone you and the others are ok. When I get back, I 'm going to want you to distinguish me everything that happened."

"But-"

"No buts !"madam Pomfrey cut in,"Bed, Albus, bed ! You need rest !"

Albus, who had barely registered the fact that his head was bleeding and he was still quite dizzy, felt that the terminal thing he needed was rest period. He needed to roll in the hay what was going on.

"I 'll explain once you 've gotten some sleep,"Harry assured him.

Albus muttered under his intimation and got into bed. Once Madam Pomfrey had given him a Sleeping potation, Harry left, leaving Albus to unsuccessfully try to contend off the nap he knew was coming.

******

The ward was quiet when Albus woke up. It was completely dark outside, although Albus did n't have the slim clew as to what day it was. John, Matt, and Kaden were either still unconscious mind or sound asleep. Albus was betting on the latter since dame Pomfrey was no where to be seen.

Mr. Eckerton was still there and he had been joined by his wife. Both of them were nodding off in chair next to Matt 's bed. It did n't look like Mr. Eckerton had even left. He was wearing the same Ministry robes he had been wearing before.

Albus sat up and put his manus to his principal. There was a bandage on the back of it. Another bandage was wrapped around his rightfulness arm, although he could n't recall when he had injured it. Besides that, he just felt worn out.

The door to the cellblock opened, letting in a low rising tide of light from the corridor. A figure stepped inside and began walking towards Albus 's bed.

"Hey, Al,"they said.

"Dad,"Albus replied, recognizing his Father of the Church,"Are you going to tell me about Balladanis now ?"

"Yes,"Harry chuckled,"Perhaps we ought to go to the room of Requirement."

Albus shook his head, remembering something he had been debating for the past tense year. He had waited long enough. It was time.

"No,"Albus said,"I know somewhere better."

Without saying a word, Albus got out of bed and lead his dad out the door and up to the fifth trading floor corridor. Harry did not ask a single dubiousness as Albus pulled the arm down on the appropriate horse and turned to face the reverse wall.

Albus located the paw prints and touched his paw to them, turning it into a doorknob. He opened the door and stepped inside. Harry followed, letting out a gasp as he did.

"Remember that map from utmost year ?"Albus asked as he shut the door.

Harry nodded, apparently at a loss for words.

"There was more to it. Instructions on how to get into this room. It was theirs, the Marauders'. Their secret uncouth room,"Albus said quietly.

Harry did n't reply. Instead he walked slowly around the elbow room. Albus stood near the threshold and waited. He was n't sure how long he stood there, watching as his dad investigated the room that had once belonged to his grandfather.

"This,"Harry began,"This is just incredible, Al. How long have you known about it ?"

"About a yr,"Albus said quietly.

"And you spend time here ?"Harry asked.

"Probably more than we do in the plebeian room,"Albus answered.

"Then it is the complete place to spill,"Harry said as he sat down on one of the couches.

Albus sat down next to him."So why was Balladanis there ?"

"I 'll tell you that,"Harry said,"But 1st I want you to explain to me what happened."

Albus took a cryptic breath and told his dad everything. Starting with when they saw Lubar in the rook and ending with throwing the Resurrection Harlan Stone into the Outback. He explained how they had first gone to a forest in Australia, how they had Portkeyed to the Outback, the dementors, the almost Patronus he had managed to make up, the duel, the fact that the Resurrection Harlan Fiske Stone did n't work to contribute Voldemort back.

"Why did n't it exploit ?"Albus asked,"I mean, I 'm sword lily it did n't, but why ?"

Harry thought for a few minutes and then looked at Albus."There are a few grounds that might explain it. The resurrection Stone brings back multitude we love, but it does not land them back completely. It 's almost as if their soul is coming back."

"Like a ghost ?"

"Not exactly,"Harry said,"But similar. It 's potential that since Voldemort split his soul so many clip, he ca n't be brought back with the Stone. The rock may want the soulfulness to be intact to work."

Albus nodded."That makes sense."

"It could also be that only loved ones can be brought back with the Harlan Stone. Washburn and the Willinsons did not eff Voldemort ; they did not have sex him. They wanted to bring him back for their own agenda,"Harry explained.

"Is there any way to notice out which it is ?"Albus asked.

"No, I do n't retrieve so,"Harry said,"Especially now that the Stone is once again gone. Which is something I 'm very grateful that you did."

"well, I figured you left it out in the Forbidden Forest for a reason,"Albus shrugged.

"Yes, yes I did,"Harry replied,"I think it best if nobody had that Stone."

Albus nodded."Yeah, that makes sensation. But what was Balladanis doing there ?"

Harry laughed."You 're not going to let that go, are you ?"

"Nope, you said you 'd tell me,"Albus said.

"I will,"Harry replied,"Albus, do you know what a Presuler is ?"

"Yes,"Albus nodded,"And I know that Balladanis is one."

"You do ?"Harry looked impressed.

"He told me during one of those dueling deterrent example he gave me,"Albus explained.

"Well, that makes my explanation easier,"Harry said,"A little over a class ago, shortly after Quinton kidnapped Kaden, the Ministry decided to hire a Presuler to help find Washburn and Jarrett Willinson."

"Seriously ?"Albus gaped at him.

"Yes,"Harry muttered,"The pastor believed the Aurors needed some help."

Albus thought he heard bit of contempt in his dad 's voice.

"When I realized that Washburn and the Willinsons were most likely working with Ralph Lubar, I had to meet Balladanis and let him bang. He came with us, and I have to accommodate that he was very helpful. We would not possess found you as fast if he was n't there,"Harry explained.

"But why was he teaching here ?"Albus asked.

"The Minister, Professor Kendrick, and I believed it would be unspoilt strategy to possess him stationed at Hogwarts, where we all believed Washburn and the Willinsons would return to. Balladanis agreed,"Harry said,"Of grade, none of us realized that Balladanis would not be able to care teaching.

"This is all quite tightlipped, Al. I 'd opt you did n't tell anyone. I will be telling Matt, John, and Kaden, because I feel they have the right to jazz, but I do n't want anyone else knowing about it."

"What about Rose and Amanda ?"Albus asked.

"I suppose I 'll tell them as well, otherwise Kaden is indisputable to secernate them,"Harry said.

"What 's going to pass to Lubar ?"Albus asked,"Is Balladanis going to be after him now ?"

"No,"Harry shook his head,"That 's going to be tricky berth. Lubar is n't a British citizen. We ca n't do a thing while he 's in Australia. It 's up to the Aboriginal Australian Ministry to either put him on trial or give him to us to put on trial. And since he 's one of their functionary, we 're not sure enough they 'll do either."

"But that 's not fair !"Albus stood up angrily,"Look what he did ! Look what he 's done !"

"I know,"Harry sighed,"I 'd like zippo more than to give him a life-long least sandpiper in Azkaban, but unfortunately the Laws do n't operate that way."

"He and Balladanis get along anyway,"Albus said,"Balladanis probably would n't want to go after him."

"I do n't make out about that,"Harry said,"Balladanis likes people to pay for what they 've done. However, being a Presuler and having no Ministry affiliation, he does not have to carry a eccentric if he 's offered it."

"He told me I 'd make a right Presuler,"Albus said quietly as I sat back down,"Malfoy, too."

Harry sighed."What do you call up about that ?"

"I do n't experience,"Albus shrugged,"I mean, I like dueling, but I do n't really require to adjudicate what I want to do right now."

"You do n't let to,"Harry replied,"And I do n't need to tell you what to do, but I am going to tell apart you something.

"Being a Presuler is a hard job and often a lone one. You have no coworkers. You work with versatile Ministries, but rarely get to know anyone. You travel a lot, which can make it hard to give birth a class. It 's not an easy way of life to go down. Not one I 'd take for myself."

Albus had n't even thought about that. He did n't think he 'd want to rarely ever see his friends and family.

"There 's heap of early things you could do that would put your dueling attainment to use,"Harry told him,"And you 're only 13 so no need to adjudicate now."

"I know, I do n't plan to,"Albus replied.

"well, you should probably get back to the hospital Wing before brothel keeper Pomfrey poster you 're gone,"Harry smirked,"And thanks again for showing me the room."

Harry stood up and gave his son a hug. They left the way and walked back to the Hospital Wing, both lost in their thoughts.

******

As it turned out, Madam Pomfrey had already noticed that Albus was missing. When he returned to the Hospital wing with his dad, she was running about the ward shouting at the top of her lungs. Matt, John, and Kaden were all awake, staring at her.

"There you are !"she shrieked,"Where have you been ?"

"Er,"Albus began.

"I had to talk to him in secret,"Harry answered for him.

"You should sustain asked me first !"madam Pomfrey exclaimed as she ushered Albus back into bed,"He needs rest !"

"I 'm his Father,"Harry said incredulously.

"I do n't care if you 're the Minister of Magic !"lady Pomfrey replied,"I 'm the one with the nursing academic degree !"

"How long has she been shouting ?"Albus whispered to flatness as he got back in bed.

"XV proceedings or so,"matt answered.

dame Pomfrey returned to her desk and Harry strode over to where the Eckertons were sitting.

"Could I have a countersign in private ?"Harry asked Mr. Eckerton and then turned to Madam Pomfrey."Do I ask your license for that ?"he grinned.

"Very amusing,"Madam Pomfrey muttered.

Albus drifted back to sleep a slight while later and when he next woke up it was light out and Madam Pomfrey was bringing them all breakfast trays.

"Er, what day is it ?"Albus asked as dame Pomfrey set his tray down.

"It 's Billy Sunday, beloved, but it 's afternoon,"ma'am Pomfrey replied,"I figured you 'd prefer to have got breakfast."

"Only Dominicus ?"Albus asked. It felt like it had been far more than xxiv hour since he had met up with Lubar before the Quidditch match.

"sentence zone alteration are unmanageable to adjust to,"lady Pomfrey explained,"Australia 's quite a few time of day ahead of us."

Albus nodded and dug into his breakfast. Suddenly he was voracious. When he thought about it, it must have been at least a day since he 'd eaten anything.

"I wonder how the Quidditch match went,"Kaden mused as he shoved goner in his mouth.

Albus choked on his eggs. He 'd forgotten about the match !"I doubt we won,"he sighed.

"Is your dad going to narrate us why Balladanis was with him when he came to save us ?"lavatory asked,"I mean, he 's had spate of time."

"He will,"Albus said,"He already told me. You lot were asleep."

The door to the Hospital fender banged outdoors and pink wine and Amanda came running in. lady Pomfrey made a move to get up from her desk, but then sat back down, shaking her head.

"Tell us what happened !"rosebush demanded as she skidded to a hitch in front of Albus 's bed,"When did you get back ? Where did you go ?"

"Who won the Quidditch match ?"Albus asked.

"Quidditch ? Quidditch ?"blush wine groaned,"I 'm not saying a word about Quidditch until the four of you tell me what in the name of Falco columbarius 's saggy left-"

"Miss Weasley !"ma'am Pomfrey shouted,"If you do n't take down your vocalisation, you 'll have to go away !"

"Sorry,"Rose turned back to Albus,"But you lot have got to separate us what happened !"

Albus launched into the entire narration, which took the dear role of a one-half hour to separate. Neither rose wine or Amanda interrupted once during the whole thing. Both of them looked absolutely shocked by the time Albus concluded.

"But, but why was Balladanis there ?"blush wine asked.

"My dad 's going to tell you,"Albus said,"He 's already told me. He 'll probably differentiate the rest of you today."

"merlin, Albus,"rose sighed,"How practically bother can you get into ?"

"It 's not my mistake,"Albus shrugged,"Now can you narrate us about the match ?"

Rose exchanged glimpse with Amanda, who sighed."It was quite the equal, let me severalise you,"Amanda said.

"nonentity won, Al,"Rose said.

"What ?"John Lackland interrupted,"How can nobody win ?"

"About 45 minutes into the match, Fred and heather ran onto the pitch-"

"The mate lasted that long ?"matte asked.

"Yes,"rosebush said,"I do n't get laid why. Anyway, Fred and ling ran right up to Ludo commercial traveler and started talking to him. cipher could hear what they were saying. Then Bagman blew his whistling and they went into a time-out.

"travelling salesman left the pitch and had a really longsighted talk with all the schoolmaster and police captain. Then Kendrick announced that the match was called off and told everyone to bring back to their common rooms.

"Everyone was really angry of path. Amanda and I were already worried because you lot had n't shown up yet. We thought something bad had happened and that was why they called it off."

"Why did they call it off ?"John asked.

"I 'm getting to that,"pink wine said,"We got back up to Gryffindor and everyone was gathered around Fred and Scots heather. Linda was n't there, and neither were any of her mate who were Gryffindors.

"We pushed our way to the straw man of the crowd and get wind what Fred and heather were talking about. They were claiming that Australia had been cheating the whole time-"

"fountainhead, they were,"mat muttered.

"I know,"rosiness agreed,"And apparently so did Fred and Heather. I 'm surely they figured it out just recently or else they would 've told someone sooner. They found out Linda 's a vampire and now the entire schooltime knows."

"How did they figure it out ?"Albus asked, completely shocked. Linda hid her mystery quite well. Fred and Heather were sixth age, they would n't give heard Balladanis 's lamia lecture."

"They 've been trying to figure it out all year,"blush wine explained,"And since they 're smart, they figured it out."

"But what about the mate ?"Albus asked.

"I think they 're going to cancel the tournament, Albus,"blush wine said quietly.

"Cancel the tournament ?"Albus gasped,"natural the tournament ? ! They ca n't do that ! We 've spent the completely year on that tourney ! Do you get it on how much prison term I 've spent on the Quidditch pitch this year ? more than clock time than I 've spent in class, probably ! And now they 're going to set off the bloody tournament ?"

"I do n't know, Al,"blush wine said shortly,"And if they do it 's not my fault."

"Sorry,"Albus mumbled,"It 's just a piffling aggravating."

"I know,"rosebush replied.

"Where 's Linda ?"Matt asked.

"Gone,"pink wine sighed,"Without a word. I have n't seen her or any of the Australian since the match. Killigan 's gone, too."

"Wow,"Matt replied,"Ca n't say I blame her, though."

"I guess,"rosiness said,"Anyway, they 'll probably do an announcement about the tournament at dinner."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the awesome people who have read and reviewed this ! There is only one more chapter left !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Harry returned to separate everyone else about Balladanis later on in the good afternoon. Madam Pomfrey flat out refused to let any of them leave the infirmary Wing, so she agreed to lock the threshold and go to her field of study while Harry explained. lusterlessness 's dad was there as well.

Harry told them everything he had told Albus, although he left out the theatrical role about why it was not all that advisable to become a Presuler. Everyone was completely shocked to larn that Balladanis had been hired to help capture Washburn and the Willinsons.

Unfortunately, Harry also brought news of Lubar. News that was not all that welcome.

"As of rightfulness now, he 's completely free and in the light,"Harry sighed,"The Aboriginal Australian Ministry refuses to extradite him, and they wo n't engage him in Australia either. To them, it 's like zip 's happened."

Albus noticed that Mr. Eckerton looked positively angered with this. Harry looked quite angry as well, but it did not come close to how Mr. Eckerton looked.

"We 're not going to establish up,"Harry said,"We 'll maintain negotiating with them."

Mr. Eckerton had also apparently been told about the Hallows. When Harry had spoken with him the premature Night, it had been about the Hallows. Albus remembered back to his first yr, when flatness had told them about his dad 's Brigham Young adult pipe dream of locating the Hallows. Harry must 've trusted him now.

Albus reached over to his bedside table, where Madam Pomfrey had placed the Invisibility Cloak the late night. He wordlessly handed it to Mr. Eckerton, who carefully took it with a look of awe on his face.

"Falco columbarius 's whiskers,"he muttered,"It 's the Cloak."

"That it is,"Harry said quietly.

"Unbelievable,"Mr. Eckerton whispered as he fingered it.

He spent a few minutes trying the Cloak on before handing it back to Albus."I can not conceive I 've finally solved the guinea pig of the Hallows,"he said to Harry,"This is awing. I would roll in the hay to percentage the tale with my buddy. Perhaps I could stick in you to him at the World Cup this summer."

Harry nodded."That would be fine. Perhaps I will eventually tell him as well."

******

Albus wanted nothing more than to be allowed out of the infirmary flank in time to go to dinner that night. He was trusted prof Kendrick would spend a penny some sort of announcement about the tournament and he did not want to lack it.

After a full ten minutes of begging on his contribution ( helped out by matt, whoremonger, and Kaden ), ma'am Pomfrey told him he was in no fit state to leave the ward. Albus thought this was ridiculous because he felt all right. So what if his arm was still bandaged and in a slingshot ? That should n't stop him from eating dinner with the rest of the school.

Instead, Albus was forced to eat a quietly repast in the Hospital wing and wait anxiously for Rose and Amanda to recite him what Kendrick said.

The girls showed up right after dinner party ended. Albus immediately asked them what Kendrick had said.

"tournament 's canceled,"rosiness sighed as she sat down on the end of Albus 's bed,"The kids from New York are staying to finish out the year, but the tournament 's canceled. I expect it 'll be in the seer tomorrow."

"merlin !"Albus shouted,"Why 'd they have to cancel it ? Could n't they just disqualify Australia ?"

"No,"Rose shook her principal,"To do that Hogwarts would have to play New York in another final."

"Why do n't they do that ?"can asked.

"Too close to exams,"Rose shrugged,"It 'll mess up everyone 's studying."

"That 's stupid,"Albus fumed.

"If it makes you experience better, I 'm pretty sure Hogwarts would 've won if Australia had n't have been here,"Rose pointed out,"And Kendrick gave one hundred firm points to everyone who was on the Quidditch and dueling teams."

"Yeah, well, all the firm had people on the team, so that does n't really help,"Albus muttered.

"well,"pink wine grinned,"I know one thing that 'll cheer you up."

"What ?"Albus asked, even though there was zippo that could cheer him up.

"There were Quidditch talent scout at that mate,"rosiness told him,"And even though the match was fatal, they did feel someone they wanted to draft."

"Who ?"Albus asked, slightly intrigued.

"Empire State of the South !"Rose exclaimed,"She 's been drafted to play for Kenmare Kestrals as soon as she graduates !"

"That 's brilliant !"Albus replied. rosiness had been right, that did cheer him up. There was no one he thought who belonged on a professional Quidditch team more than Georgia.

"Yup, she 's their New reservation keeper,"Rose said,"She says Uncle Sir Henry Percy 's not move. He wanted her to crop at the Ministry. She does n't deal what he thinks, though."

"Uncle Percy 's got plenty of other Thomas Kid to work at the Ministry,"Albus shrugged. He could never see Peach State working in government.

"Kenmare ?"John the Evangelist said incredulously.

"Yeah, seriously ?"lusterlessness grimaced.

"They 're nearly as bad as the Cannons,"St. John groaned.

"She 's just well-chosen to be on a team,"rosebush shrugged,"She 's always supported Puddlemere, but she thinks if she 's on any team, she 'll be able to work her way up to a respectable one."

"Merlin, I hope so,"whoremaster shrugged.

"Is she the only one who got drafted ?"Albus asked.

"Only one I know for sure of,"Rose said,"I heard a rumor that Anna Reilly got taken on by the Balycastle cricket bat, but I do n't recognize for sure."

Albus nodded, feeling slightly better about the tournament. It was n't pointless now that he knew his cousin-german had been taken on by a professional Quidditch team because of it. However, that did n't subscribe to all the disappointment away.

******

brothel keeper Pomfrey reluctantly let the male child leave the next day after breakfast. She did n't really have a choice since exams began that day. Albus felt perfectly hunky-dory and was quite felicitous to go out the place.

rose handed him a written matter of the Prophet as soon as he and the other boys reached the vernacular room. Albus took it, well-chosen that he had a few minutes before his first exam to read the clause that was inevitably there.

AUSTRALIAN schoolhouse CHEATS- tournament CANCELED

After a galvanize breakthrough made by two Hogwarts
students, the Quidditch and Dueling tournament
involving Hogwarts, the Adirondack academy of
conjuration, and the Aboriginal Australian School of necromancy
has been canceled.

The tournament 's last Quidditch equal was
interrupted this past times Sat by two Hogwarts
6th years, Fred Weasley and Heather Weasley,
both 17, who claimed that the Australian squad
had been cheating throughout the entire
tournament.

A few months ago, allegations were brought upon
the Aboriginal Australian squad after their seeker, Linda
esprit de corps, 14, flew at an exceptionally fast speed.
An investigation found nothing. The tourney
continued.

Fred and Heather Weasley accused Linda Morales
of being a vampire. Vampires are outlawed
from playing on professional Quidditch teams due
to the unfair advantage they have.

The peer was immediately stopped while all three
headmasters questioned the Weasleys and Morales.

Headmaster Addiar Killigan of the Australian
School of necromancy admitted to allowing team spirit
to be the searcher of his squad in order to win the
tournament. The Australian team was immediately
disqualified from the tournament.

Killigan, Morales, and the rest of the Australians
participating in the tournament left Hogwarts recent
on Saturday, declining to speak with any of our
reporters.

Tournament officials as well as the other two
schoolmaster have decided to cancel the tournament,
and not declaring a winner.

'It is regrettable that the tournament turned out
this way ,'Fabius Kendrick told reporter, 'Perhaps
we can try it again in a few years .'

"Killigan is an half-wit,"Albus said.

"Look at the succeeding article,"pink wine replied.

QUINTON WILLINSON BACK IN AZKABAN, JOINED BY WASHBURN

While the concluding Quidditch mates was ending in disaster
at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry
Potter 's middle child, Albus, 13, was dealing with his
own battle.

Albus ceramicist, as well as first cousin Kaden Dursley, 12, and
friends Matthew Eckerton and King John Brickston, both 14,
were kidnapped by Quinton and Jarrett Willinson, and
Jameson Washburn. The three inmate were helped by
Ralph Lubar, Head of the Department of the rule
and Control of Magical puppet in Australia.

The four Hogwarts students were taken to Australia
where Harry Potter and Walter Eckerton found them.
It is unclear what the convict were after, as well as
why Lubar was involved.

Quinton Willinson and Jameson Washburn were caught and
sent to Azkaban. Lubar and Jarrett Willinson escaped.
Aurors are currently looking for Willinson and the
Ministry is negotiating with the Australian Ministry
about what to do with Lubar.

All four son have recovered from the trial by ordeal and are
currently taking their end of the year examen
at Hogwarts. Harry Potter has declined comment.

"fountainhead, that 's not a very informative article,"Albus said as he tossed the paper onto a nearby table.

"I do n't think they can report much,"Rose said,"The Aussie Ministry may be asking them to keep quiet about Lubar in rejoinder for giving him some kind of punishment.

"It wo n't matter,"flatness said,"They 're not going to do anything to him."

Albus was forced to labour Lubar into the back of his mind as exam began. They were all significantly harder than the late year 's had been, but he was sure he at to the lowest degree passed all of them.

There were short article in the oracle about Lubar everyday, but they all said the same thing. Australia refused to deliver him. Matt was not at all surprised by this, but it infuriated Albus to no end.

The workweek after exam was a unknown one for Albus. There was nothing left wing for them to do. No studying, no prep, no Quidditch. rosiness and Amanda went back to spending all their time with the boys, like it had been before Linda had arrived.

matter were different, though. Both Rose and Amanda were a lot muted than they used to be. Albus was sure they missed Linda, and he had no idea whether she had said goodbye to them, or even if she 'd had the opportunity.

flatness was lost in his own thought process to the highest degree of the time, rendering him quieter than ever. He often went integral eve without saying two words to anyone, something that usually only happened around replete moon. However, the succeeding full moon was n't until after they left Hogwarts.

Albus was for certain this was because of what had happened in Australia. He never talked about it, but Albus knew that getting kidnapped by Lubar again had scared the day out of him.

John and Kaden remained as boisterous as ever and did not look to be fazed by what had happened in Australia. They spent their hebdomad pulling clowning and playing interminable games of Exploding Snap that Albus occasionally joined in on.

Albus himself was quieter. His mind was racing with cerebration of Lubar and Balladanis. None of the clause ever mentioned Balladanis, but he knew that was because Balladanis 's job had to remain a secret. He wished more than anything that Lubar would get thrown in prison, whether it was Azkaban or Australia 's prison.

******

The power train ride back to London was subdued, the only noise being John Lackland and Kaden 's Exploding Snap wit. Albus and matte both gazed out the window, mesmerized by the release landscape.

"Linda sent me a letter last Night,"Rose said, breaking the silence.

Albus lifted his head up and looked at her."What about ?"

"She told us she was sorry, and wanted me to tell you that she was grim about the tournament,"Rose told him,"She 's on the run with her mum now. They 're thinking of moving to a different country."

"To go to school ?"Albus asked.

"No,"Rose shook her headway,"She 's been through schooling a dyad times already. She was n't even a bookman at the Australian shoal. Killigan pretty much forced her into playing Seeker for them. He 's a really filthy bloke. They have to get out now, though, because everyone knows."

"Where will they go ?"Albus asked, surprised that he was actually feeling sorry for Linda.

"No idea,"rosiness shrugged,"She said she 'd owl me when they find out."

"This whole year has been so messed up,"John Lackland sighed,"I hope next yr 's better."

"Me, too,"matte agreed.

"We 've got the Earth Cup to wait forward to, though,"Albus smiled.

"Oh, yeah !"John grinned,"Owl me as soon as you find out when we 're leaving for it."

"Definitely,"Albus said,"Your sister 's going, too. Lily told me she 'd invited her. Hugo 's not really happy about that."

"Neither am I,"whoremaster muttered,"I do n't want Ashtyn going."

"well, I 'd prefer Lily not go, but it 's the Cup ! nothing can really ruin it,"Albus said.

"goodness point,"John agreed.

"Let me know when the Cup is,"Kaden said.

"Why ? So you can convince your parents to have you ?"John the Divine smirked.

"No,"Kaden laughed,"So I can know when to ask in you lot to my sign. My dad said he 'd take us camping."

"Excellent !"King John grinned,"Camping like Muggles ?"

"Yep,"Kaden replied,"sustenance in tents, no electricity, no magic either since we 're all underage."

"There is no way my parents will let me go,"lustrelessness said quietly.

"Why not ?"Kaden asked.

"I went camping when I was five,"Matt answered,"That was the time I got bitten."

"Oh,"Kaden looked a little taken aback,"Sorry."

"It 's ok,"Matt shrugged,"Just do n't go during a full lunar month. I do n't require any of you having to join me in the Shrieking shanty next year."

"I 'll go,"Albus said. He 'd never been camping before, let alone camping like a Muggle. He did palpate bad that matt would n't get to go, but he kind of thought Matt would n't want to go anyway.

The oddment of the trip was spent arguing about Quidditch and Albus felt like things were sort of returning to normal. It was almost nice to listen John and flatness arguing about the cannon again and Kaden arguing about football.

The train arrived in British capital and Albus found his parents waiting for him on the program. After saying goodbye to his booster, Albus left the place with his family flavour that just maybe life-time would be normal from then on. Well, maybe the summertime would be at least be rule. Albus could n't get his Leslie Townes Hope up too high.


A/N : Hard to conceive it 's finished ! Thanks to Dancer of Starlight for betaing and thanks to all of the awesome people who have read and reviewed this ! You guy cable are so lovely and amazing !

I am working on the fourth story but it 'll be a patch before the first chapter is up. I 'm thinking I 'll update every other week at first, alternating week with Beyond the Shadow. In the meanspirited time, if you want something new to read, I suggest checking out Remember the Cannons, which is a collab I worked on last class and is now currently being updated. It 's all about the Chudley carom and their ruination. It 's under the username The Golden Snitches and is also in my front-runner tarradiddle so you can find it that way.