Having spent the entire day avoiding all of his admirer, Ron decided to skip dinner completely. Ignoring his rumbling breadbasket, he changed out of his schooling gown and into jeans and a sweatshirt before collapsing across his bed and staring angrily at the ceiling. Life wasn't fair… it was a concept he'd been confronted with over and over, he didn't understand why it continued to surprise him. He was tired of being offered the hope of felicity only to ingest it ripped away. O.K., so maybe he'd never had a chance with Hermione… but Luna had been his, they'd been in erotic love and either one or both of them had ruined it. But he'd wanted to pick up the pieces after, she was the one who'd been so win over it was over. And this year- at one point he'd thought Parvati was just the distraction he'd needed, that he could grow closer with her and spend a penny something of it… And then Jacinda Nicolau had walked into his life… It had seemed a miracle that she'd returned his interestingness in her, but then she left and worse, Annapurna had been taken away and was now suffering who knew what fate because he hadn't been open-eyed to her and her needs as he should have been. After all, he'd agreed to set about dating her before he even knew Jacey existed, Parvati should have been his first concern.

Ron slammed his fist down on the bed, tired of feeling guilty and mad and frustrated. Maybe he needed a acquaintance right now after all, mortal to talk to and help get some of this off his chest. Harry had claimed to want to listen… but that had been while he'd come to defend Luna's honor. He didn't really feel like talking about any of this to the guy who was now in all chance sleeping with his first love.

He sat up at the sudden acute smash on his door and quickly strengthened the shield around his thinker, figuring Harry had somehow picked up on his persuasion and was now coming to hash things out. Taking a deeply hint in planning, he got up and went to the doorway ready to severalise whoever it was to go away… but when he opened it, no one was there.

'' Boo ! '' Jacey's capitulum suddenly appeared out of nowhere as she laughed heartily at his response. Fully pulling off the invisibleness cloak, she walked right yesteryear him into his room and turned to him with a dazzling smile. `` Are you not glad to see me ? ``

'' I'll let you know as soon as I get my eye going again. '' He closed the threshold and faced her nervously. `` What are you doing back here ? ``

'' Turns out my line does not take me as far from the castle as I had thought. I was having the opportunity to come see you tonight and so I took it. '' She answered, suddenly having fuss meeting his gaze. `` Harry has told me what happened with Anapurna and that you are sad. I am so dreary about this. ``

'' It's not your fault. '' Ron sighed, slightly upset to find that Harry had sent her to see him.

She walked over and took his hand. `` It could be though… there is something I should tell you about. ``

'' I don't want to hear it. '' He quickly shook his heading and squeezed her handwriting. `` I've been over it and over it in my head for the last two days, Parvati's parents arrived today and are staying in the palace until we find her… it's already too much right hand now. I don't want to know anymore unless you can tell me exactly where she is. ``

'' I can not. '' She said sadly.

'' Then I don't want to know. You're here, that's enough. ``

'' Is it ? '' Jacey smiled and Ron felt himself blush.

'' wellspring, uh… I mean, um… ''

She laughed and put her digit to his mouth, silencing his attempt to explain. Then she smiled coyly, staring into his eyes before leaning in to lightly brush her lips against his. `` Perfect. '' She whispered as she leaned back with her eyes closed and a soft smile playing at the corners of her mouth.

'' Am I dreaming ? '' He asked breathlessly, unable to believe what was taking place.

'' ‘ I have had a pipe dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.''' She whispered, quoting Shakespeare.

flavor confident, Ron leaned in and fully captured her lips. His boldness was instantly rewarded as she returned the kiss, wrapping her munition around his neck to press herself against him. And then the rug was ripped out from under him as she pulled away, ending the substantially thing he'd ever begun to experience.

'' I can not stay. '' She said, looking away almost guiltily while hugging her arms around herself. `` I just wanted to tell you, to let you live that I am not forgetting you. ``

Recalling that Parvati was still missing, Ron began to feel rather guilty himself for indulging in such nervy behavior. `` corporate trust me, I can't forget about you either. '' He said, picking up the cloak and handing it to her.

Her hand lingered over his as she took it from him. `` Just commend, if you are needing to babble to someone, I am not far… If you call out to me- '' She reached out and tapped her finger against his frontal bone before ruffling his hairsbreadth. `` -I will most probable hear you and if I do, I promise I will do. ``

'' But you can't check tonight ? '' He asked, both hoping and fearing she would concur to stay.

Jacey shook her head. `` It would not be overbold I think. '' She flung the cloak around herself so that only her caput remained seeable. `` Until succeeding time, I hope you think well of me. ``

'' That's the only way I think of you. '' He smiled, opening the door so she could take the air through. Once in the hallway she pulled up the strong-armer and once Thomas More disappeared out of his life… But this clip she'd left him with the promise of a way to reach her at any meter he wanted, though he wondered if she was aware that he wanted her around all the time.

( good luck )

'' I feel like the sorry guardian ever. '' lupine sighed as he led the way through the Mrs. Henry Wood. `` I mean I've been legally bound to ensure your well-being- '' He turned to attend at Draco, `` -and Harry your parents are counting on me to help reckon after you, yet here we all are on a midnight stroll through the Forbidden Forest to dispose of a body… I can't stay fresh James and Lily from finding out obviously, but not a Bible of this gets back to Tonks, got it ? '' He asked very seriously.

Draco shared an amused smile with thrower as both boys agreed to retain Tonks in the dark. Lupin led them deep into the woods, letting the male child handle the job of floating Tristan along as the man had claimed it to be their mess to clean up, he was simply there to see that they did it right. The corpse was hidden under Dragon's invisibility cloak as ceramist had leant his to Jacey, but the further they went, the more difficulty they were having in maintaining the magical spell to go along it in the air. `` harbor't we gone far enough ? '' He asked, not wanting to have to actually carry Tristan's body.

'' I suppose we have. No one should be able to see the fire from here. '' lupin replied, stopping their progress. `` Besides, there's a big Ash Tree right over there. ``

Letting the corpse drop to the earth, he went with Potter to avail gather plenty wood for the task ahead of them. While they did that, Lupin began making a band of gemstone around Tristan, instructing the boys to get across the vampire completely with the wood. When they were finished, genus Draco wiped the fret from his forehead and removed his coating despite the frigid temperature.

'' Now we light it ? '' ceramist asked grimly.

'' Actually, there's something else that comes first… It's pretty gruesome so I think I'll handle this. '' Lupin replied unhappily, looking as if whatever he was about to do was the conclusion thing on earth he wanted to be a part of.

Both boys watched with a sort of curve fascination as he bent down and moved the sticks away from Tristan's psyche and pulled the vampire's oral fissure give while ignoring the jag pieces of forest still sticking out of his eyes. Picking up one of the part of Ash next to him, Lupin turned away before solidly jamming it down Tristan's throat. `` We have to be sure to get the flaming down inside him too. '' He said, quickly covering the psyche back up. `` And now we light it. ``

All three pointed their wand and stepped back as the hatful of wood exploded within the stone traffic circle. This was the last phase angle of their dark deed and Dragon was beaming that Ginny had chosen to follow Luna's leading and stay behind. He didn't even really want to be a looker to this, it was better that one of them have the piece of mind to never have to relive this moment. Tristan's hide seemed to sizzle and almost scream as the Ash wood burned down. Lupin had of class been right about how the Ellen Price Wood would weaken the vampire's cancel defenses… but they stayed until there was nothing before them but a glowing mountain of embers, just to be sure.

( BREAK )

Fred woke up to his mother pounding on his door. Groaning in displeasure, he buried his read/write head under the pillow and willed her to go away… unfortunately no one's will was as solid as molly's. `` ejaculate on Fred, get up ! '' She called as she continued to get it on away on the door.

With a gimcrack grunt he threw his pillow away and unwillingly got out of bed. Flinging open the door, he regarded his female parent warily. `` What ? '' He demanded, too tired to handle about being rude.

'' And a proficient first light to you too, though it's nearly dejeuner time. '' She returned. `` You really should get to bed earlier dear. ``

'' I'll piece of work on that. '' He said sarcastically as he rubbed his face and yawned. In all Lunaria annua, he never would have fallen asleep if his eubstance hadn't just given up and passed out on him sometime in the too soon daybreak hours. But since he had gone to catch some Z's, he was rile with her for ruining it. `` Was there something you wanted ? ``

'' Something Lee wanted actually. '' She replied huffily, thrusting an envelope at him. `` A ministry guard showed up with this for you a few minutes ago. Said Lee needs you at the shop. The guard is still down there, waiting to take you. ``

'' O.K., I'll be right down. '' He promised, suddenly extensive awake as a wave of nervous sickness washed over him. Closing the doorway on her, he tore open the envelope but the short letter inside wasn't helpful- it was simply a request that he come to the store as soon as possible. That wasn't like Lee at all, if there was a job he wasn't afraid to complain about it in total detail.

Throwing the useless musical note aside, he rushed to get dressed and sweep his tooth, simply running his fingerbreadth through his hair as he hurried down the step. Grabbing his pelage and kissing his mother goodbye, he left the sign of the zodiac and climbed into the waiting ministry car. It took every ounce of self-control he had not to just apparate from the backseat to the store, but not knowing what awaited him he knew it was better to arrive with an actual Auror.

They parked outside the Leaky Cauldron and hurried through to Diagon alleyway, trying to pelt along without being noticeable as they made their way to the store. Fred was surprised to retrieve it closed up, with the shades drawn and the front door locked. `` Hey, do in there with me, okay ? '' Fred asked the guard, pulling out both his wand and his keys.

'' What do you think is going on ? '' He asked as he took out his own wand.

'' I don't know, but it's not good. '' Fred unlocked the threshold and let the former man go in ahead of him. Fear tingled along his face as he followed, but the salesroom was vacuous and nothing seemed out of place. `` Lee ? '' He called out nervously.

'' Maybe the office ? '' The guard suggested tensely, heading down the hallway and opening the doorway. `` Hey ! He's in here ! ``

He rushed over, entering the federal agency to observe Lee spread out on the flooring and bleeding from a wound on his head. kneel beside him, Fred was capable to see that his acquaintance was still breathing. `` He's alive. '' He assured the guard duty who was busy searching the loo for enemies.

'' Okay, apply atmospheric pressure to his wound. '' The man replied, moving to the room access. `` I'll call for backup. ``

'' I'm sorry, I can't let you do that. '' Elanya appeared suddenly from the hallway and before either could react, she drew her wand and cursed the man to death. `` howdy Fred. '' She turned her wand on him as he pointed his at her.

'' What are you doing here ? '' He demanded, trying his intimately to neglect the now perfectly man laying a few feet away. `` And what did you do to Lee ? ``

'' I never was very proficient at the Imperious swearword, and he fought against it the unscathed time. '' She shook her foreland regretfully. `` I mean I got him to write the note and bridge player it off, but he finally broke exempt of my influence. I certainly didn't want to kill one of your admirer but I had to shut him up somehow. Don't headache, it's just a nasty bump on the head. ``

'' You had no qualms about killing that innocent man. '' He pointed out, still not looking at the fallen guard.

She shrugged. `` Neither of us knew him, what does it count as long as he's out of the way ? ``

'' You're a very cold-blooded person. ``

'' Perhaps. '' She shrugged again. `` Perhaps I just need to find the right on positive influence. ``

'' And perhaps you're just bat tinker's damn crazy. '' He replied meanly, wanting to bequeath her in no question as to his opinion of her.

'' You could be right… time will enjoin. '' She smiled coyly. `` Don't trouble, someone will come along to pick up my messiness after we leave. come on, I'm only giving us an 60 minutes. ``

'' Come on where ? And an hour to do what ? '' He scrambled to his pes and stood protectively in front of Lee.

'' We're going to your vault in the bank and then I'm giving us a boundary of one hr to shop for all the wearing apparel and supply we'll penury to disappear… and then we'll disappear. '' She laughed.

'' Today ? ! '' He asked in a scare. `` But… but you said Friday… and Willem isn't here. '' He argued, desperate for the extra two mean solar day she'd promised.

'' I see, you want me to play by the linguistic rule while you run around breaking them ? Thanks to you, Willem can no longer be a part of this… '' Elanya scolded. `` You didn't bet the game right. ``

'' What are you talking about ? What rule did I break ? '' He asked desperately.

'' You told the great unwashed about all of this… you involved Hermione farmer and so now the formula have changed. We are leaving today Fred and you will play the biz correctly from now on or she will serve the penalty. ``

'' If she knows what you're up to, then she'll certainly be on safeguard for you or your spy. '' He spat out, hating how helpless and angry he felt.

'' Everyone must sleep sometime. '' She sneered.

'' significance ? ``

'' I'm for sure Harry and Luna informed you of the slip to Azkaban and I'm sure they told you that they know it was Sarah working through Cho… All Sarah needs is a location and an unconscious vessel that she could make do anything at all, from hurting mortal else to taking a walk off the top of the eminent tower at Hogwarts. It doesn't matter how guarded Hermione Granger is, she can't halt awake forever. ``

Fred glared at her as his brain worked extra time trying to count on a way out of this, or at best, a way to discourage Hermione and perhaps have Luna or Harry try to help protect her brain while she slept. Feeling the free weight of the powder compact in his pouch, he wondered how recollective it would be until he could find the metre to use it.

'' I'll look at your silence as begrudging banker's acceptance. '' Elanya said, offering him a falsely perfumed smiling. `` And before you get those wheels turning too fast, I won't be giving you the opportunity to discourage your picayune girl or your special protagonist about any of this. We've thought of everything and neither Harry nor Luna will be given the chance to help. '' It was almost as if she could translate his head though he knew that wasn't the fount, she was simply being thorough in explaining the hopelessness of his office. Using extreme point will, Fred was capable to keep from reaching in his pouch and grabbing the covenant to gain a good sense of quilt. Instead he used the fact that Luna was already helping and could therefore regard Harry to calm himself.

'' O.K.. '' He finally broke his secretiveness. `` You got me, I admit it. Let's go. ``

Elanya regarded him suspiciously. `` Just like that ? I expected a little more resistor. ``

'' What more do you desire ? '' He cried, throwing his arms out in foiling. `` You win ! You've beaten all the fight out of me ! What am I supposed to do ? One wrong motility on my part and it means something bad for Ron or Ginny or Hermione… so okay, I agree to the damage. Let's just go already ! ``

'' devote me your wand. '' She demanded, holding out her script. In the only low act of defiance he could manage, Fred threw it at her feet instead. She smirked with amusement as she bent to recover it, putting both wands in her purse. `` There's just one more thing. '' She pulled out a unknown looking device with short ton of lights and gauges.

'' What is that matter ? '' He asked as she approached him.

'' Just relax and stand still. '' She ordered, waving the thing over him from his head word to his understructure. It suddenly started lighting up and beeping same crazy as she moved it over his scoop. `` You have a communicating twist. '' She grinned.

'' No I don't. '' He lied unconvincingly, even in his own ears.

Elanya nodded. `` Put it on the desk. ``

Fred hesitated. The covenant was the only reason he'd so readily agreed to go with her, figuring he'd be able to use it at some point and alert the others to his predicament.

'' come on, you don't want to start breaking rules already, do you ? '' She taunted.

She really had won, without giving him a way to warn Hermione, Ron and Ginny, she had his stark obedience and she knew it. Reluctantly he pulled the compact from his pocket and placed it on the desk. Elanya picked up the ice paperweight, leaving Fred to watch as she smashed the covenant into man. `` That's seven years bad chance. '' He said numbly.

'' Really ? Because I feel my chance is starting to change for the better. '' She laughed as she brushed the pieces to the floor and stepped on them for good measure. `` There was no way you were walking out of here with that anyway. I told you, we thought of everything. ``

　

　

NOTE : Uh oh… now what's Fred going to do ? Stay tuned for more chapters to find out ...
Chapter 50 : Searching for the lost

A/N : Well, so much for my hope to suffer the fiber out of Hogwarts by chapter 50 J So much to deal with here so go ahead, Read, reassessment and Enjoy !

　

Hermione had woken with an uneasy flavor in the pit of her stomach. By the end of her live on class the feeling had tripled and she was now sick with concern, having been ineffective to reach Fred all day. `` Hey, are you okay ? '' Harry asked quietly as they walked back to their dormitory together.

'' I'm fine. '' She answered tensely.

'' Really ? Because I can't feel my deal anymore… '' He lightly joked, making her realize she'd had his deal in a Death grip.

'' Sorry. '' She loosened her hold and felt him flex his fingers. They'd been at each other's English all day whenever they were in public, Harry had apparently decided to once more give in to her and Luna with few to no doubtfulness. Admittedly his presence at her side was the solitary thing to give her comfortableness all day and she was grateful for it.

'' Something's amiss. '' He pushed as they entered the rough-cut room.

'' Well- '' Fear and headache overwhelmed her and she suddenly felt the indigence to confess everything if it would serve Fred. But just as she was about to run out it all, she felt her pocket grow warm and nearly collapsed in relief. `` I'll recount you about it later. '' She said quickly before rushing off to her room to be alone.

Nearly dropping the powder compact as she fumbled to attract it out of her scoop, she eagerly flipped it open only to have her heart drop painfully to her stomach. `` Hermione ? '' Lee stared back at her, though his mirror image was fragmented as if the mirror had been broken. `` Oh beneficial, I fixed it ! '' He sighed in relief as he caught sight of her on his side.

'' What's going on, where's Fred ? '' She demanded.

'' I don't know ! '' Lee cried out in thwarting. `` I don't call up anything about today before waking up with a splitting headache. '' He pointed to where his brain was now bandaged. `` No one was here, nothing was missing… but I found the covenant on the storey and smashed to small-arm. ``

'' And Fred ? '' She asked again with more urgency.

'' I contacted Molly… ''

'' You're killing me here, Lee ! tongue it out ! '' Hermione yelled.

'' She said I had sent a note earlier asking him to come to the store and that the ministry guard was supposed to possess brought him… I don't recall any of that. '' Lee seemed beyond hard put and close to tears.

'' Someone must feature used a spell and wiped your memory. '' She shook her head, not knowing how to soothe him when she was so secretive to panicking herself.

'' Probably, it's what I figured as well. But I didn't want mollie to start torment and twine up having Arthur send the whole Auror team out. It took everything I had to win over her that Fred stopped to clean something up and would be here any minute… So then I tried for the last hour to fix this stupid compact to see if maybe Fred went up there to see you again, but that's obviously not the case ... ''

'' It's because she found out he came to see me on Sunday… '' Hermione closed her optic as a sense of dread consumed her. `` Elanya must have upped the stakes… she's made him leave early… ''

'' What are you talking about ? '' Lee demanded.

'' I don't have time to explain now, we have to move quickly. '' Her mind was racing a million sea mile a minute of arc. `` Arthur and molly can't know yet… that will only help the lady friend'plan. I need you to convince them that Fred went away for some variety of business trip for the depot, tell them you're going with him so maybe they'll vexation less. ``

'' Well, I guess I could mask my voice and pen a talking letter to them pretending to be Fred. '' He suggested, always eager to become part of their dangerous adventures just like the former son. `` He's okay, isn't he ? ``

'' For now… I don't think hurting him is currently region of their program. '' She said grimly. `` I'm going to talk to Luna, see if she can moult any light on this and depending on what she can or can't see we'll figure out what to do. ``

'' And when do I get to know what's actually going on ? '' Lee asked.

'' After you find a way to contact Willem Fritz and get him there to the memory board with you. We'll be needing to talk to him about his niece. '' She replied darkly.

'' How am I supposed to do that ? '' He asked incredulously. `` No one's supposed to know the guy's out of prison. ``

'' I don't know. You're the maniacal originator who hung around Fred and George III all those years, I'm sure you'll find a way. '' Hermione brushed him off. `` I have to go, the Sooner I talk to Luna, the Oklahoman we can hopefully figure all this out. ``

( recess )

'' I can't stomach it anymore ! '' Ginny shouted, throwing her history of Magic book across the room. `` It's just sooo very boring. '' She flung herself back on the bed and grabbed the pillow to cover her face as she screamed her frustration into it.

'' Is this a convention piece of your homework process ? Because we may have to begin studying alone. '' genus Draco teased, ignoring her dramatics and returning to his Potions essay.

She got up and kneeling in front of him, grabbed his textbook and threw it over her shoulder with a sly smile. `` We aren't alone now, so why spend our time studying anyway ? ``

'' Can't argue with that logic, I guess. '' He grinned, grabbing her around the waist and pulling her into his lap before kissing her passionately.

Knocking at the door interrupted their ad lib fun before it could really get started and Ginny pulled away in disgust. `` You see ? This is why I dislike other people… '' She groaned.

'' I surely hope you have skillful reasons. '' He laughed, getting up to suffice. He was utterly surprised to find Drake standing there.

'' how-do-you-do, sorry to interrupt but I'm here on schooltime business concern. As acting Head of Slytherin star sign I've come to quest your front in the Headmaster's role. '' Drake smiled apologetically.

'' Some advice in dealing with early Slytherins… Snape wouldn't have been so nice as to bespeak anything. '' Draco smiled back. `` What's going on ? ``

'' I have no idea. I was just told to fare get you. '' Francis Drake shrugged.

He felt Ginny coming up behind him and reached for her hand. `` Do I sustain to go alone ? ``

drake grinned wider. `` I'm surely whatever's going on, there would be no objection to Miss Weasley coming along for support. ``

'' Very officious. '' Ginny approved teasingly.

'' Yes, I do believe after a few months I've begun to get the hang of this whole job. '' Drake joked back as he began to conduce them to Dumbledore's office.

As they walked, Dragon began to experience nervous… what could they possibly want to see him about ? Had the headmaster somehow found out about Tristan ? Was troy weight trying to frame him for Parvati's disappearance ? Several ideas floated around in his head, none of which were good. In fact, he'd never in his life been called to up there to be given good news program. At the gargoyle, Drake gestured for them to go up first and as they climbed onto the steps Draco squeezed Ginny's hand in tense anticipation.

Dumbledore was in the process of handing a letter off to Fawkes as they entered the office and he turned to them with a sorry smile. `` Well, none of you ever seem to be alone anymore. howdy Draco, Ginny, why don't you both have a posterior. '' He spoke informally as he tended to do when he was in private with his favor bookman. Draco felt almost honored to now be considered one of them. `` Roscoe, I need you to bring Professor Trelawney here as she is rather skilled at scrying. ``

'' Who are you trying to find out ? '' Draco blurted out. He knew all about the skill of scrying… it was something Narcissa had mastered and was proud to display. In fact, he knew she had been the one to facilitate Lucius locate various masses including Flavius Claudius Julianus Heath.

Dumbledore nodded to Drake who quickly left to carry out the petition made of him. With a suspiration, the master seated himself before them and looked intently at genus Draco. `` We've received intelligence agency that Lucius has disappeared. ``

He could finger Ginny staring at him out of the corner of her eye, but Dragon couldn't make his brain employment his mouth to make words. `` What do you mean he's disappeared ? '' She finally asked for him.

'' Since the Quibbler article was released, Lucius has been turned away from the Death feeder and Arthur has had respective people watching him. Yesterday dawn he managed to slip away from them all and he hasn't been spotted since. ``

'' Well he certainly hasn't contacted me ! '' genus Draco said, leaping to his feet.

'' I wasn't implying that he had. '' Dumbledore calmly replied. `` I was just wondering if perhaps you knew of somewhere he would go. ``

So this was it, the here and now that he knew would eventually come. He had to adjudicate whether or not to completely turn his book binding on his male parent in order to help the hoi polloi who had so helped him. Now he had to figure out just how much he'd changed, what his moral are from what they were, and whether he could fully throw himself over and cut all ties to the two people who had given him life. `` I don't know. '' He said at terminal, sinking back down into the chair and touch horribly confused.

'' I see. '' Dumbledore nodded. `` I'm aware of what I'm request of you and how unfair it is to ask a small fry to completely turn on their parents. I am sorry for it and only my and Arthur's desperation drove us to make up one's mind to come to you ... But you by no means have to answer and I assure you we won't think LE of you for it. I want you to be fully cognizant that you have a choice here, one that shouldn't have had to be presented to you and therefore you won't be judged either way. ``

'' Won't I ? '' He asked miserably. How could they not label him if he chose to remain soundless when he could cause helped ? And how could he not be judged for completely turning on his kinsperson ? There was no comfortable way out of this.

'' You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. '' Ginny said quietly as she reached out to supportively rub his arm.

And he didn't… not with these the great unwashed. Recalling his previous way of life story, he knew Dumbledore and the others weren't aware of the true statement depth of his Padre's iniquity cruelty. Draco had seen Lucius commit many sins without any sign of remorse, what could he be doing out there now that he'd been outcast by the decease Eaters and left on his own ? Knowing what the man was able of when he was in ascendancy, Draco hated to consider what he was capable of when desperate. `` Okay, give me a calamus and lambskin and I'll write down the locations of every safety planetary house I know about and any other topographic point he might go. ``

Dumbledore made no motility to fill his request, instead continuing to calculate on in concern. `` Are you sure ? ``

'' If he's left out there alone, who knows what he'd do or who he'd hurt to ensure his own survival… I can't have that hanging over my pass, if I don't try to stop him then I can only share the guilt of his activity. ``

'' And with that persuasion, I would like you to lie with how proud I am of your continued growth. '' The headmaster smiled with sad encouragement. `` But I want you to be assured that not only are you not to blame for your don's actions, no one would hold it against you if you did feel the need to maintain some mannequin of loyalty to him as your parent. ``

Draco shook his nous. `` No, I've decided. '' He firmly insisted. It took a few import to write down everything he knew and by the time he finished Drake was back with professor Trelawney. Having no desire to witness them attempt to settle Lucius, he made his wish to be dismissed back to his dorm apparent. Thankfully Dumbledore heartily agreed, letting him and Ginny leave the office.

'' You okay ? '' She asked, linking her arm through his and leaning her head on his shoulder joint as they walked.

'' Sometimes I wish I were the orphan instead of potter. '' He muttered.

'' I'm sure as shooting given the circumstances, Harry would agree to that. ``

'' Of course he would, Jesse James and Lily are cypher like Lucius and Narcissa. ``

'' And Ted and lily-of-the-valley tree are nada like Mr. and Mrs. Dursley. '' She smiled, reminding him that he did have some family that was worthwhile. `` And Tonks is zippo like Dudley. ``

'' With my luck, I would receive gone to be raised by Bellatrix. '' He joked. `` I guess Potter and I really are opposites ... him rather having been raised by his parents and me wishing I had been with my aunty, uncle and cousin-german. ``

'' But things happened the way they did and that has brought you to the present moment when you had to turn on your father completely… So, are you okay ? '' She asked again, bringing the conversation back to her master copy question.

'' You'd make a dependable newsperson. ``

'' And you'd make a very hard interview. '' She returned. `` Quit deflecting. ``

'' I don't know how I am. '' He finally answered with a heavy sigh. `` Part of me is relieved to wash my paw of Lucius and office of me feels like the worst son ever. ``

'' He's not exactly father of the class. '' Ginny squeezed his arm and kissed his articulatio humeri. `` There's no actual way to be a good child to a bad parent. ``

'' You don't have to tell me that. I spent years trying to impress him. '' He answered glumly.

'' And yet he never tried to ingrain you, never tried to show why he was suitable of your dearest and regard. '' She argued against his self-doubt. `` You're going to feel whatever you feel, but just don't forget- you've only turned on mortal who turned on you first. He tried to kill you already, he doesn't merit your tribute. ``

'' You tried to stamp out me too. '' Draco pointed out, feeling the sudden irrational need to fend for his father.

'' The departure being I haven't tried since. '' She said stiffly. `` And I probably won't again… '' She added the dark threat, letting him fuck she didn't appreciate his comment.

'' Yeah, okay it was a dazed thing to say. '' He admitted, stopping in the residence outside the mutual way and pulling her in for a hug. `` I'm sorry, the two matter were completely different situations… I just… I don't know. ``

Ginny pulled away and smiled, reaching up to place her hands on either side of his fount. `` You're just a little messed up in here right now. '' She playfully shook his head. `` It'll right itself out. ``

He leaned his frontal bone against hers and sighed. `` I certainly hope so. ``

( breakage )

'' uncovering anything interesting yet ? '' Luna asked as she pushed the single file to the end of the bed and got to her foot, stretching away the stiffness caused from sitting too long.

'' A few odd things here and there. But I'm just now getting into the nineteenth hundred. '' Harry took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes, shoving his files away as well. `` I had foolishly thought all the data file from the draftsman marked ‘ Harry Potter'would be about me, but they actually go all the way back to Lyraline Elderwood… though I will admit, there's more than contingent to these files than the regular ministry phonograph record. ``

'' They probably started compiling it the minute they figured out that prophesy was about you. '' She smiled. `` It's a good thing, we should learn everything we can about our ancestors so we don't wind up repeating their mistakes. ``

'' Oh, and my bloodline was responsible for quite a few big mistakes apparently. '' He picked up the file cabinet, laughing as he shoved them towards her. `` Not all of us were the greatest of people. ``

'' Well, no one's line of descent is all pure, right ? Coven descendants or not, we are all still human. '' She grinned. And then a sudden wash of panic flooded her, forcing her to once more sit or risk falling over from the force.

'' What's faulty ? '' Harry asked, instantly feeling what she felt.

Luna shook her pass. `` It's not me, it's Hermione… something's wrong and now she's looking for me. She already tried my room, now she's coming here. ``

Sure enough, Hermione began to frantically ping at the door and Harry rushed over to let her in. She entered in a haze, her eyes wide with fear and desperation. Not caring whether Harry was in the room, she rushed over to Luna and quickly told her everything about Lee contacting her and her worry that Elanya had forced Fred to leave behind early.

'' So wait, you're saying Fred's been kidnapped ? '' Harry asked incredulously.

'' Not exactly. It's more like he's been blackmailed into leaving. '' Luna replied, attempting to remain calm. Knowing what Hermione wanted from her, she prepared her psyche and left it to the other daughter to fully sate Harry in on what's been happening.

'' So now we have to visualize out where they've gone. '' He said when she was done, clearly upset to have been left in the dark about this. But Luna could see that he was fighting the urge to express his wrath, knowing Hermione still had no estimate about Tristan and therefore he had no room to judge.

'' Which I was hoping Luna could help with. '' Hermione replied. They both turned to reckon at her.

'' I don't know… I've been sitting here trying and I think I strained something the last-place few Clarence Day because my mind flavour so tired. '' She watched Hermione's face fall and quickly turned to Harry. `` Maybe you could help me ? ``

'' Are you sure that's a beneficial idea ? I've drained myself completely before and it doesn't look goodness. '' He asked uncertainly, as worried as she was that she could damage herself.

'' We have to try. Fred's out there somewhere and if I can't find oneself Parvati we can at least try to find him. '' She argued back.

Harry took a deep breath and let it out. `` Okay, let's do this then. ``

Luna reached out to subscribe to his hand as he and Hermione sat with her on the bed. Closing her centre, she cleared her creative thinker of everything but Fred and attempted to pull the connection. She could feel Harry with her, wrapping his cognisance protectively around hers and adding his own strong suit, which had completely regenerated since his battle with Tristan.

Again it hit her unlike anything she'd ever experienced before, a blasting of effigy that came on so quickly they knocked her back with their force. There was no Andrew Dickson White elbow room, no scene playing out, nothing of any cohesiveness or distinction. Concentrating she slowed them down, displaying each in order of magnitude as they swirled around her.

get-go came an epitome of Hermione, growing declamatory as it zoomed toward her, focusing in on the girlfriend's eye until they became mirrors displaying Sarah staring back at her and wearing an malign grin. Luna shivered in fear, watching as Sarah's face melted away and began showering down drops of figure that turned to rain…

Fred was in the rain, quickly trying to erect a rather ordinary tent as Elanya looked on, tapping her foot impatiently as she stood under an umbrella and waited for him to finish their protection as a flashbulb of lightning tore open the sky…

An explosion of semblance burst before her middle, blinding Luna and forcing her to look away. Blinking away the discomfort, she turned back and watched with bewitch awe as several strange, colorful flowers budded and bloomed in nominal head of her.

The pain was fleet and sudden and seemed to get from deep inside her header. The next affair Luna knew, she could feel Harry shaking her as he and Hermione called out, telling her to ignite up. Letting her eyes flutter open, she stared up at them as they looked down at her in fear. `` What happened ? '' She asked Harry.

'' I don't know. Something felt off and then there was pain so I stopped the visual sense. '' He answered nervously.

'' Are you okay ? '' Hermione asked as they helped her sit up.

'' My capitulum hurts. '' She answered honestly, turning to Harry. `` You saw everything I saw ? ``

'' I think so… ''

'' Well, what did you see ? '' Hermione asked anxiously, once more rivet on helping Fred now that she was assured that Luna was somewhat okay. Rather than attempt to explicate, Luna told Harry to play back it all for Hermione to see. She would hold done it herself, but she was too play out and her nous literally felt fried out. Putting a bridge player to her headway, she could feel that her temperature had risen alarmingly. `` Okay, so Fred is definitely with Elanya then. '' She seemed grimly hopeful.

'' The flowers came after, maybe they give some clue to their location. '' Harry suggested, getting up to pour a glass of piddle from the pitcher on his dresser. He came back and handed it to Luna though she hadn't mentioned how parched her throat suddenly was. But as he went back to pour out a methamphetamine hydrochloride for himself, she realized he knew because her ill were affecting him… This wasn't good, they had to figure out a way to hold back themselves divided when necessary.

'' handle on, I think Lee is calling. '' Hermione said, standing to reach into her pocket.

'' Ah yes, the compact you and Fred used behind my vertebral column. '' Harry teased.

'' Let not begin comparing who did what behind each other's back, '' Hermione suggested wryly, `` I'm passably sure I'll be the one to come out ahead. ``

She flipped spread out the compact and Lee's interpreter immediately floated out of it. `` Hey ! Turns out I'm serious than I thought. Willem's here already. ``

'' I'm with Harry and Luna. ``

'' What's going on ? ! '' Willem's frantic interpreter demanded.

Hermione gave him a abbreviated version of electric current events up to describing the unretentive vision Luna just had. `` Well, what kind of blossom were they ? '' Lee asked when she was finished.

'' How are we supposed to know ? '' Harry replied. `` They're clearly alien or why else would they be a clue. ``

'' Well, what about the first part then ? '' Willem pressed.

Luna saw Hermione shiver and knew the other girl had probably come to the same ending she had. `` I'm somewhat sure that's telling us how they got Fred to cooperate… '' She said quietly.

'' Yeah, they threatened to have Sarah do her pudding head stellar jut thing to invade me and make me do who knows what. '' Hermione added bitterly.

'' We won't let that pass off. '' Harry assured her.

'' Oh yeah ? What, is everyone going to sleep in slip to see to it it doesn't ? '' She asked despondently.

'' If that's what it takes. '' He insisted. `` In the have in mind time we can look up the blossom, maybe even ask prof Sprout. ``

'' Or Neville. '' Luna suggested out of nowhere. She didn't know why she'd suggested their lost Quaker, it had come to her suddenly and she had spoken before she even realized it… And now they were staring at her. Well, she'd come this far, she might as well finish her thought. `` Or George… maybe he knows where Fred is. ``

Harry nodded and went to his desk to retrieve the gang. `` We can call them both at the same clock time. '' He said excitedly.

'' Well we have to do something. And the riotous the better. '' Lee agreed through the compact car. `` What do you require us to do while you three are doing that ? ``

'' Willem, Fred told me you two snuck into the ministry to delete those recordings… do you remember how he got you guys in ? '' Hermione stared at Luna as she spoke, silently asking if she had any common sense that this was a worse idea than it seemed and to blockade her if she did. Luna shook her headspring, nothing was poking at her intuition.

'' Yes. Why ? '' He demanded.

'' Tonight, you and Lee need to go back and find the archives. Get everything you can on Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' Hermione instructed. `` They know all about us, we need to cognise everything about them. ``

'' But Chester A. Arthur has Mad-eye looking after all the record book and single file. '' Harry reminded her.

'' Don't worry about that. All we need is a distraction to ensure everyone's care is away from the ministry. '' Lee answered mischievously.

'' Just don't get yourselves arrested. '' Hermione said, rolling her middle. `` I'll margin call you back if we learn anything. ``

'' And I'll call you after the armed robbery. '' He returned before they both ended the call.

'' well, should we contact Saint George and Neville now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly as Harry came back over to sit with them.

He reached out and placed a deal over Luna's forehead. `` Maybe you should just sit back and let us call them up. '' He suggested in concern, clearly feeling that she had a fevered headache.

'' You do depend rather pale. '' Hermione agreed, leaning in to search at her bettor. `` Maybe we should go to another elbow room, let you catch one's breath for a bit… ''

'' I'm fine to just sit here and watch. '' Luna insisted, just as anxiously odd to know what had happened to Fred as they were.

Harry seemed unsealed but she made it clean that he wouldn't be able to convert her mind. `` Okay, let's hope they can tell us something. '' He put on the annulus and closed his eyes to concentrate as Hermione reached out to feed her own energy into the ring. Luna attempted to shut down herself off from them, not wanting her own modified entrepot of energy to be accidentally tapped. She could palpate Harry also attempting to harbor off from her and she hoped his stock split focussing wouldn't affect his ability to use the ring.

( BREAK )

Fred watched the ocean waves crash against the boat as it sliced through the pee toward the sun setting on the horizon. It would have been an awful experience had he been there under different setting, but when he'd woken that morning he had no mind a boat drive into the Atlantic was in his future. He sighed and leaned on the rail, debating what chances he and his acquaintance would sustain if he just flung himself overboard.

'' You don't have to take care so sad and defeated. '' Elanya remarked from beside him. She hadn't let him out of her hatful since they'd gone to empty his coin bank account and go on on a frenzied shopping fling. He hadn't chosen to speak to her since they'd secured passage on this gravy holder. `` You could just enjoy your surroundings. It is quite passive out here. '' She went on, trying to goad him into conversation.

Instead he continued to push aside her and moved further along the deck, but she followed wherever he went. `` Come on Fred… I half agreed with your plan. Castellumshire is no blank space for us, but there are pile of pocket-sized chartless islands there that will fit us just ticket. ``

'' There is no us ! '' He finally exploded. `` There you and me, your surety. We aren't in this together, this isn't some vacation for us to get away from our biography for a bit ! So quit acting like this is anything other than what it is, you forcing me to come in along with you. ``

'' I was just trying to make the experience a bit friendlier, less hostile. '' She pouted. But he wasn't fooled for a minute, he knew exactly what form of Hydra she was.

'' Now that you've completely severed my communicating to my friends, how can I trust that you'll keep your news and not let Sarah or your spy or anyone else hurt them ? '' He asked.

'' My give-and-take isn't honest enough ? '' Elanya smiled, leaning her back against the railing so she could face him. He had the sudden desire to thrust forward and jostle her, to make her vanish beneath the waving and end this nightmare… of course he had no approximation what sort of communication she had set up with her friends and he couldn't take the chance. Surely they would birth planned for him attempting to get rid of her.

'' Of course it isn't. Nothing you've said has been true. ``

She smiled and crossed her arms. `` Of line some of it was on-key. I know you're well mindful that the most convincing lies are rooted in satin flower. ``

'' Okay, I'll bite… what was true ? '' He dared her.

'' That I don't want to hurt anyone now that Edmund is gone. Of path I will if I have to… I'd just really rather the post didn't come up, which is why I'm relieved that you've decided to take on so nicely. '' She smiled again, this prison term with a bit of teasing demureness. `` You must really have it away your comrade and sister… and this Hermione must be pretty important too. ``

'' What else were you being honest about ? '' He pressed, ignoring her attempt to spur him into revealing anything.

'' That I want zippo to do with Voldemort or his plan to turn us immortal, and that Sarah and Elise were actually interested… not in Voldemort mind you, but in the vampire swearword. ``

'' We'll be dropping anchor in five bit. '' One of the boat's crew appendage came over to announce. `` As you are the solitary two being let off at the entrance islands, we'll row you in. Do you already have your return program booked ? ``

'' Our stay will be indefinite. '' Elanya answered him while still looking at Fred.

'' But miss, it's mighty intemperate to flag someone down if you haven't already arranged a choice up. '' The crowd extremity protested.

'' We'll take our chances. '' She finally turned her care to the man, reaching out to run her fingers up his arm. `` Why don't you go start loading our thing into the dory ? '' She suggested, lowered her voice and drawing the man in. `` You look strong enough to accomplish the task… and many others I'm sure. '' She added with a twinkling laugh.

'' Right away miss. '' The man smiled and hurried off to do as he asked.

'' Now why couldn't you have been that wanton ? '' Elanya turned back to Fred.

'' I'm better at sensing a wolf in sheep's clothing. '' He replied, turning to follow the crew member she'd so easily bewitched.

Within a half an hour, they had been rowed ashore and left all alone with the many matter she had made him buy for this picayune sashay. `` Great, it looks like rainfall. '' Fred muttered as the iniquity clouds rolled in with the coming night. abbreviated flashes of lighting tore through the sky as rippling of thunder roared overhead.

Elanya casually reached down and pulled out an umbrella. `` wellspring, I guess that just gives you more bonus to get the collapsible shelter up quickly then, doesn't it ? ``

( jailbreak )

'' Believe me, I wish I could help you. '' George II said miserably as he and Neville floated before them. `` It's not exactly like we can actually see you guys up here, it's more like we have a sense of what you're doing. '' He added glumly.

'' What did the flowers look like ? '' Neville asked.

Harry tried to think the range to him, but apparently his power was ineffectual to bridge over the gap between the living and the dead. He, Luna and Hermione attempted to describe the accurate bloom from Luna's vision. `` Does any of that sound familiar ? '' He asked when they were done.

Neville appeared attentive. `` You might want to double handicap, but they sound like Colorsplosions… they're flowers that sort of explode in color during the day when they bloom and then shrivel away at night. I know they're rare, I just can't recollect where they're found… mostly islands I think. ``

'' That's okay. As long as we know what they are, we can count up where to happen them. '' Hermione assured him. `` You've been very helpful. ``

'' Just wee sure you find Fred as soon as potential, okay ? '' George V pleaded with them. `` I still can't believe he got himself into something like this. ``

'' He didn't have a choice. Elanya was threatening Ron and Ginny. '' Luna argued, her voice fallible and strained. Harry turned to her in concern, ignoring the discomfort of wearing the band to center in on her. Inside her read/write head was dark and shadowy, as if person had turned off the lights… though he could still see sparks in the backrest, letting him know she hadn't fried herself out completely.

'' Just, find a way for me to spill the beans to him when you help him roll out all this out okeh ? '' St. George insisted, clearly worried for his twin.

'' We will. '' Harry promised. They said their goodbyes and the two spectral figure of their lost friend disappeared. He went over to his desk to put the tintinnabulation away, already disliking the conversant pulling it had on him and his energy vibrations.

'' Are you okay ? '' He heard Hermione once more than ask Luna and turned to see what had her so worried. Luna seemed even more pale than she had before… except for the feverish garden pink spreading across her cheeks and forehead.

'' I just sense a picayune dizzy. I think I just need to eat something. '' She answered in a daze as she carefully got up. Even as Harry made his way over to facilitate, he watched her attack to take a stair before her peg buckled, forcing Hermione to progress to out and overtake her. He rushed over to help get Luna back onto the bed, sitting beside her and running his much tank script over her heated forehead.

'' How about if I bring something up for you from dinner ? '' Hermione suggested.

'' Maybe that's a dependable idea. '' She replied with a faint smile.

'' I'm sorry for pushing you to possess those visions. '' She said quietly, clearly feeling shamed for the position Luna was now in.

'' You don't have to be, we needed to find Fred. ``

'' I'll be powerful back with something to eat. '' Hermione promised, hurrying out of the room to do what she could to try and make things better.

'' You going to stool it ? '' Harry asked gently once they were alone, smiling to hide the boastfully amount of money of concern he felt.

'' I think the chances are good. '' Luna joked back as she took his hand in hers. `` I guess I pushed too far too fast… but I had too. ``

'' I know the feeling. '' He sympathized, kissing her finger's breadth. `` I just wish you hadn't let what Ron said get to you so much… many the great unwashed have warned me about pushing myself too far too truehearted, yourself included. You didn't have to bite yourself out to prove to anyone that you're ‘ useful ’. ``

'' I had to prove it to myself. '' She protested with a syncope smile. `` I hate being at the whim of my visual sense, it's about sentence they worked for me. ``

'' Yeah, okay. Too bad they worked a little too concentrated. Some food and sleep will do wonders though. ``

'' I hope so… you aren't feeling it, are you ? '' Luna asked in concern.

'' Don't vexation about what I'm feeling. '' He told her, not wanting her to cognize that he was in fact going through a lot of the Saami symptoms she was… to the point where it almost felt as if he'd been the one to run out his top executive and overextend his energy output.

'' This isn't good… we have to obtain a way to be separate sometimes. '' She said through a loud yawn.

'' Yes we do. '' He agreed. Harry knew he did severe things far more often than she did and that due to his desire for victory, he got hurt a lot. The last thing he wanted was for Luna to suffer every metre someone challenged him, to contribution his pain every time he did something stupe. There had to be a way, they just had to reckon it out.

( BREAK )

Jacey looked into the mirror carefully to insure the potion had entirely worn away. Once assured she was herself with no trace of Tristram, she took a mysterious hint and picked up Harry's invisibleness cloak, nervously settling it around herself. Ron had called out and asked her to come see him just before dinner party, and she was anxious about what she would say. The guilt trip was eating her awake, she knew she had to state him about Parvati… and how she had not warned anyone in time to stop the girl's fortune. It would not be comfortable, but it had to be done and Harry had agreed to let her be the one to tell Ron everything about his missing girlfriend.

She crept through the uncouth room, careful not to get too close to any of the scholar still milling around. Her stomach clenched painfully as she entered the Gryffindor annex and she only hoped Ron would not hate her after tonight. Standing outside his door, she took a moment to gather herself before knocking. As soon as he opened up, she brushed past him and waited until he closed the door again before flinging off the cloak. `` You really came ! '' He seemed surprised.

'' I had told you that I would if I was able. '' She smiled, sitting awkwardly at his desk. `` There are some things we need to utter about. ``

'' Yes there are. '' He agreed. `` Will you go out into the forest with me tonight ? ``

'' Excuse me ? The Sir Henry Wood ? ``

'' I want to go looking for Parvati. '' Ron sighed and went to look out his windowpane. `` I know Dumbledore has sent a lot of people out there, all with beasts and gadget meant to line up masses. But it's been three mean solar day and they still haven't found her. ``

'' And you think we will be more successful ? '' She asked gently. `` I know Dumbledore is doing everything he can, aught is working. He has sent people to look, he has had people scrying, he has the beasts of the forest keeping an eye out… there is null more that can be done. ``

'' Well I have to do something ! '' He cried, turning to face her. `` I can't stand worrying like this anymore, I can't grip not knowing what's happened to her, or the guilt that it's my fault. ``

'' I know why their efforts to locate her wealthy person failed. '' Jacey looked away, unable to converge his gaze. `` It is because all of their efforts are spent attempting to locate a homo, which Parvati no longer is. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' He asked quietly, his voice tense with emotion.

'' She has been turned, we are indisputable of it. Parvati is a vampire and unless they alter their device and coordinate their hunting accordingly, they will never find her. Especially if she does not want to be found. '' She blurted out in one swift breath.

'' What do you have in mind you're sure ? What's going on ? '' He demanded, coming over so that she had to look at him.

She shook her headland and began her story, telling him everything that involved Parvati while leaving out the parts that gave away that they had killed Tristan. When she was done, Ron simply grunted and walked back over to the window, leaning heavily on the sill. `` So why didn't you tell anyone what you thought ? '' He asked.

'' I told you, I was not sure… '' She swallowed intemperate, waiting to see what would happen.

'' Better safe than sorry ! '' He shouted, turning to face her again. `` I'm so tired of all this secrecy ! seem what's happened now because of it ! ``

'' I did not want to accuse without proof ! '' She argued in her defense.

'' So you had to await until she disappeared and Luna saw her as a vampire ? ! When was there going to be enough proof… when she showed up bearing her fangs in your face ? ``

'' Hey ! You knew there was something wrong with her, you could have just as easily tried to figure it out instead of letting the girl convince you it was just a low temperature. '' She said in anger. She already knew she shared some blame in this, but she would not accept it all.

Ron seemed to puncture before her as he turned and slumped down on the sharpness of his bed. `` You're right. '' He said quietly. `` I wasn't paying attention… but what now ? What can anyone possibly tell Padma, or their parents ? ``

'' It will not be well-situated. '' She got up and went to sit beside him, placing a hired man on his knee in comfort. `` But just because she is a vampire does not mean she is like Tristan or Troy. As long as she is away from the will of her Creator, there is nothing to say she will be bad. ``

'' And what if they are around ? ``

'' Then if her will to contend them is stronger, she will be able to overcome… just like genus Draco and his creator. ``

Ron shook his pass. `` Yeah, Harland- he's as bad as Tristan. ``

Jacey wished she could tell him that Tristan was one being he no longer had to fear, but anyone that was apart of the vampire's expiry could be in danger and there were enough of her new champion already in that position. She could not let Ron be put at risk as well.

'' I guess the first thing we have to do is find her… until then it's probably honest that we continue to let her family think she's only missing. '' He lamented.

'' Probably. '' She agreed, moving closer and putting her arm around his shoulders, wanting to take in him feel better.

'' Do you think she hates me now ? '' He whispered.

'' What ? ``

Ron shrugged her off and stood uncertainly before her. `` Parvati, do you think she blames me for not protecting her ? Do you think she hates me ? ``

'' No one can make out what she is thinking. '' Jacey replied uneasily as certain thoughts of his became clearer in her psyche. `` But I can see what you are thinking and you are blaming me… you think I distracted you from her ! '' She stood and crossed her arms, waiting for an explanation.

'' First of all, stay out of my foreland ! '' He shouted. `` And secondly, just because I think that doesn't mean value I blame you. I blame myself ! I let myself be distracted by you when I should have got either paid attention to Annapurna or been honest with her about how I really felt. ``

'' And how do you really feel ? '' She pushed, taking a stone's throw closer to him.

'' Like you don't know. '' He answered bitterly. `` As if I could even facilitate it after seeing you. ``

Without warning, she grabbed his face and pressed her rim to his, giving into what they both wanted. At first he was astonished, but he quickly overcame it and wrapped his arms tightly around her to return the kiss with an equal depth of passion. He walked forward until she felt the edge of the bed against her legs. Letting her knees collapse she fell back, pulling him along with her. It had been so long since she had experienced any variety of liaison and even longer since she had done so with person who craved her as much as she craved them. And oh how she wanted Ron… She had no explanation as to why he had so captivated her but he had, and to now feel his mouth on her peel, the weight of him as he hovered over her, and the heat energy of his desire… it was everything she'd thought it would be and more. She had wanted this ever since she'd laid eyes on him and had come close to giving in hold out night. Her own guiltiness had stopped her then, as his seemed to block him now.

'' hold. '' Ron said in a strangled vocalisation as he pulled away. `` I'm sorry I can't do this. '' He gently rolled away from her and sat up, anxiously running his workforce through his hair. `` I just can't let myself be happy while Parvati is out there. ``

She sat up and reached out to rub his cover. `` I understand. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you do. '' He smiled sadly.

'' I am going to go out. It will be easier for us both I think. '' Jacey suggested, moving to mount off the bed.

'' Will you stay ? '' He asked, his eyes wide and wannabee. `` testament you just lay here and sleep next to me so I won't look so alone ? ``

She studied him carefully before giving in. `` okay, I do not want to be alone either. But I must leave very early in the morning. ``

'' I don't care. Some fourth dimension with you is better than none. '' He agreed, climbing under the binding and motioning her to join him.

He turned out the light and lay back, both of them left staring at the roof as aflutter tension descended on them. Taking the initiative, she turned to Ron and wrapped her arm around him, resting her head on his berm. She smiled in the dark as he responded, placing his own branch securely around her and pulling her close. For the first fourth dimension in her life, Jacey felt safe… that there was someone who could care for her to a greater extent than they cared for themselves. It was a flavor he was bringing out in her that she was beginning to care for and as she snuggled in closer to him, she knew she would do anything to keep it.

( suspension )

After Thomas More than a week had passed, Hermione felt like she was at the end of her rope. After a disappointing conversation with professor Sprout, she'd learned that Colorsplosions were so rare they were thought to be extinct. But Luna was sure of what she'd seen and Neville had been pretty sure of what they'd described. Hermione had spent every free minute in the library trying to encounter out anything about the alien efflorescence but so far her search had yielded cipher. Just as she thought she was going to drop off her judgement, she decided to pitch her focus… but she needed to use one of the invisibleness cloaks in order to get into the limit field of the subroutine library where she knew the data she wanted was being kept.

Harry had been her first of all stop but Jacey was still in self-command of his cloak and so Hermione had gone to Draco who had gladly handed his over with no inquiry. Now all she had to do was wait for the castling to shut down for the night. Locked away in her room, she pulled out the concordat to check in with Lee for the millionth time. `` No, we haven't found anything worry yet ! '' He said right away, clearly agitated with her constant nagging.

She'd been beaming to get wind he and Willem had been able to sneak into the ministry and abscond with the essential single file. But that had been several twenty-four hour period ago and she knew had she been the one in self-command of those document, she would have been able to throw gone through them quite a few multiplication by now. `` Why not ? '' She demanded.

'' I don't know, maybe because I also have to hold on forging letter to Molly pretending they're from Fred… Maybe because there's a million things to read in these stupid files… and maybe it's because you keep calling every five minutes to distract me ! '' He said loudly. `` What about you ? Have you figured out where those flower grow yet ? ``

'' No, but I have design to get into the restricted part of the library tonight… while I'm there I'll look to see if there's anything about Colorsplosions. ``

'' Well what else are you going there for ? ``

Hermione shook her head. `` Don't worry about it. How's Willem coming along in finding Elanya's grandmother ? ``

'' Not so safe. Turns out the ministry didn't actually know too much about Jayalina Delamora… we can't even find oneself her parents figure. '' Lee answered in defeat. `` But he's having Arthur see what he can do about helping expand the hunt past our ministry's info. Willem told him that he wants to try and find any family he may take in and thankfully Chester A. Arthur hasn't questioned his motive too much. ``

'' We have to find them. '' She insisted. `` If Jayalina really did have her parents keeping Elanya safe, then they may be able to contribute Willem insight into their granddaughter. ``

'' As soon as he knows who and where, he intends to go see them. '' Lee assured her. `` In the interim, give me a few hours of peace and I might actually pee headway into all of this information… trustingness me, if there was a way I could send it all to you without anyone finding out I would. ``

'' Sorry I'm being pushy. '' She sighed and fought back the furious tear threatening to diminish. `` It's just that it's been a hebdomad and none of us have heard from him… ''

'' I know, Hermione. I'm worried too. '' He said gently. `` How's Luna ? Is she able to have imagination yet ? ``

'' She's been trying but every time she does, she gets a fearful headache… I hope I didn't relegate her or anything by pushing her so much hold up week. '' Hermione was actually quite interest about Luna and feeling very guilty for letting the lady friend effect herself that live on clock time when she'd already looked so exhausted. And bad, they still hadn't been able to figure out the visual sense she'd clearly hurt herself to have for them. `` She has said she's been having dream about Fred and that so far she believes he's okay. ``

'' Well, I guess if it's coming from Luna I can live with it as fact… I'm glad he's O.K., but I wonder how he's doing otherwise, you know ? ``

'' I try not to reckon about it. '' She muttered. `` call in me back if you or Willem find anything okay ? Otherwise I'll just talk to you again in the morning. ``

'' Will do. '' He promised.

They ended their communicating, leaving her with aught to do except waiting. When she finally felt it was clip, the clock had already struck midnight. Carefully wrapping Dragon's cloak around herself, Hermione crept through the green room and out into the hallway. She tried not to nominate a single noise as she made her way to the library, not wanting to alert Filtch, his cat Mrs Benjamin Franklin Norris Jr., the shade or anyone else who may be awake and also wandering the halls. She'd never felt so anxious before, sneaking out with one of her friends was one affair but she rarely did it on her own for the sheer fact that she just wasn't as well-situated being underhanded like the others. But she had to push aside her discomfort… being sneaky seemed to be the only way to accomplish anything these days, it had certainly worked for Elanya, Sarah and Elise.

At cobbler's last she came to the library door and she hoped Madame Pince hadn't locked them for the nighttime. She let out a huge sigh of relief when she reached out and pulled, finding the door had easily opened. Moving over to the librarian's desk, Hermione grabbed the keys and a small lantern before rushing over to the restricted section. She unlocked the logic gate and with as fiddling noise as possible, began making her way through the stacks in search of what she wanted. Stopping to grab a schoolbook on lost and uncharted islands, she quickly moved on to the metaphysical section.

The Advanced Art of Astral Projection. It was the first title to snaffle her eye and she instantly grabbed the book, figuring she could figure out the bedrock of something she had niggling time to learn. Besides, she'd always found it well-off to instruct things from a harder perspective than to be talked down to during the loose steps. Banned Acts of Astral ejection. Hermione grabbed that book too, figuring a few of the tricks Sarah had mastered would be covered there.

Hearing a stochasticity, she quickly extinguished the lantern and stood as still as a statue, not daring to even breathe. Even though she was capable to see that she was still alone, her furiously beating philia could no longer stand the paranoia that comes from breaking so many principle. Tucking all three books under her arm, she hurried to mesh the gate and give the key before rushing back to her room. She had a lot of reading to do and she wanted to learn as fast as possible… She wanted to be able-bodied to do everything Sarah was equal to of doing and while it may cause taken the woman years to get the hang her skills, Hermione was certain she could achieve a certain level of mastery within daylight. Maybe she was being overconfident in her intelligence service but she didn't care. They were always saying she was the smart one, in Luna's vision even Elanya and Sarah had said so… Now it was time she prove it.

More than learning how to protect her own thinker from Sarah's intrusion, she wanted to learn how to leave her body and travel to early places so that she could finally get a way to pass on with Fred once more. She knew it was different than apparating, but since she had picked that up so quickly and astral project was a part of it, she had high promise that she could force it off. Now it was just a matter of how quickly she could get through and apply the material covered in those volume. Putting aside the one on islands until tomorrow, Hermione picked up The Advanced Art of Astral jut and began reading, eager to begin learning the desired skill.

( breakout )

'' I don't want to go. '' Harry turned and buried his head under his pillow. He and Luna had been up late last nighttime going through the ministry documents as they were the only if matter able-bodied to disquiet her from the fact that she hadn't been able to have a vision since draining herself out last week. Despite the fact that they'd figured out two of the three remaining coven members, he'd barely been able to keep his eyes open by the end and the last affair he wanted to do so very early the next morning time was get up and get cook to go to Hogsmeade.

'' It's your finale trip there as a student. '' Luna tried as she sat up and began going through the newspaper publisher they'd read last night.

'' And there's nothing there I want. '' He emerged from under the pillows to put his head in her lap and front up at her with a diabolic smile. `` In fact everything I want is right here and if I have to be wake up I'd rather spend my time doing something I want to do. ``

'' I'm sure you would. '' She rolled her eyes. `` But if Hermione and Ron can go and act normally then there's no reason for you not to. Besides, I'm going so you'd be left here all alone anyway. '' She bent over to buss him before rudely moving out from under him to begin dressing for the day. `` You better get going before anyone is awake sufficiency to see you leaving my room. '' She teased.

'' You're mean. '' He said simply as he forced himself to get up.

'' I prefer roughneck love. '' Luna smiled.

Reluctantly Harry left to go to his own room, which felt very dusty and lonely. But that's just how he felt about everywhere now whenever he and Luna were not in each other's spate. As he dressed, he realized it was a tactual sensation he'd just suffer to get used to… after all, they couldn't be next to each other all of the time.

He had just finished tying his shoes when someone came knocking on his door. `` Harry ? '' He heard Ron call option through the room access. While they'd all just variety of decided to get along, no one had yet attempted to pretend things right after the things he'd said and the way he'd been acting… And Harry was of the mind that they wouldn't be able to assort things out while Parvati was still missing. Ron had been going out of his way to avert his friends- except for Jacey who said she was spending most nights with him, apparently just sleeping. Harry was confused as to why Ron was coming to him now.

'' Hey. '' He said, opening the door and remaining peaceful until he could picture out his friend's motives.

'' You remember when you said you were willing to do whatever I wanted to help find Parvati ? '' Ron asked immediately as he pushed his way into the room.

'' Yes… '' He answered cautiously.

'' Well, according to what Jacey overheard Troy say, the last place he saw her was by Hogsmeade, right ? He thought she was heading into the mountains… ? ``

Harry hesitated. He knew that Jacey hadn't overheard anything, that she'd been the one to actually get that information out of Ilion. But Ron still didn't know about Tristan or Jacey having to become him. He knew what his friend was about to ask of him and he worried what could materialise if he refused such a idiotic estimation. `` We can't just sneak out of the village. '' He tried.

'' Why not ? We sneak out of and into everywhere else. '' Ron crossed his arms. `` I can't find any peace of mind until we find her Harry. I don't attention if she's a vampire, I just want to bring her back to her family ! ``

'' And what if she doesn't want to amount back ? '' He countered.

'' Then at least I'll know it's her choice… and at to the lowest degree I'll have had a chance to talk her out of it. '' He was close to begging. `` I just ask to at least talking to her… ''

Harry didn't know what to do… he had a feeling that if he didn't agree to go helper come up Annapurna then Ron would simply undertake it on his own. He supposed it would be proficient if they could discover Parvati before Luna's vision came genuine, after all, Troy would surely be looking for her and the last matter they needed was two newborn vampires out scuffling in the woods… especially if troy came out the winner. `` Okay. '' He agreed, having talked himself into it. At least now he had a ground to go to Hogsmeade, though he knew Luna probably wouldn't be thrilled with the idea.

'' Really ? '' Ron seemed surprise, as if he'd expected to take to put up more of an argument.

'' Really, but we're asking Lupin to come with us. '' He insisted, figuring that would mollify both Luna and his own misgiving about the design. `` And everyone else stays behind inside the village walls. The final stage thing we need is mortal else getting bitten, even by accident. ``

'' Do you think Jacey will be able to contact us out there ? '' He asked hopefully.

Harry knew she had already taken the potion and had to go into the hamlet as Tristan. Being reminded of that, he felt a sudden pang of guilt. With first Annapurna's disappearance then Fred's, with Luna frying herself out, with Dragon dealing with his begetter, none of them had focused on releasing Jacey from the obligation of playing their numb enemy. Whether or not they found Anapurna today, he knew the side by side thing he had to do was rivet on how to urinate Tristram disappear for good.

( geological fault )

Jacey climbed into one of the waiting perambulator, feeling immensely uncomfortable with having to pretend to be soul else outside of Hogwarts. She had never been to this Hogsmeade village, but Tristan had and he would be comrade with the places and the things he had done there… she was not. Harry and Luna had tried to fill her in during breakfast, thinking her all sorts of storage from their own meter spent there. It was overwhelming and as troy climbed in behind her, she suddenly felt very alone. A sense of foreboding washed over her when Troy turned to Pansy and the others who had been about to also get in their baby buggy. `` You guys do find another one. Tristram and I need to lecture. ``

They all looked to her and she simple nodded in accord, sending them scattering to find an empty-bellied carriage. She and Troy sat in silence until the caravan of scholarly person began moving. `` I don't appreciate being cornered like this. '' She said sternly, hoping to preserve her suitcase on Tristan's tone.

'' And I don't appreciate being lied to. Something is different about you. '' He accused, turning to seem at her. There wasn't a cliff of fear in his eye and Jacey realized he was somehow on to her.

Not knowing what else to do, she quickly reached out and grabbed the boy by the throat, violently shoving him back against his behind. She brought her face close to his and allowed her teeth to rise. `` How dare you question me ? '' She demanded angrily. `` I made you, I can just as easily unmake you. ``

'' And Parvati Patil ? '' troy weight choked out. Thankfully he did not try to break away from her as she knew her intensity level was aught compared to Tristram's. Her execution seemed to have rattled him, making him less certain that he had figured her out.

'' What about her ? '' She asked harshly, releasing her hold on the boy and once to a greater extent subsiding comfortably in her seat as if nothing had happened.

'' What are your plans for finding her ? Surely you are going to find her ? '' He pressed.

'' I don't have to explain myself or my actions to you or anyone else. '' She answered nonchalantly as she gazed out the windowpane, trying to pretend to be disinterested.

'' No, but you are supposed to be telling me what to do, remember ? '' Ilion sneered. `` So I am I going looking for Parvati on my own today ? ``

'' You do nothing without me ! '' She roared.

'' And what of the architectural plan to get Luna ? '' He went on, ignoring her rage. Jacey felt shaken, certain he didn't believe her to be Tristram because if he did, he would never have dared act so boldly. `` The others are all waiting for your statement, I've told them you intend to go through with it today no matter what and they're all wetting themselves in their turmoil to leaven themselves to you. Unless you give them a specific plan, right now it's going to be a free-for-all once we get to the village to see which Slytherin will get Luna for you first. '' He was so clearly setting a trap, testing her to see what she would do as Tristan.

Forcing herself to remain simmer down, Jacey shrugged. `` Good, let them. That will allow for you and I free to go look for Anapurna. ``

troy weight raised an supercilium. `` Really ? ``

Again she shrugged. `` I don't hold out very much hope for them, but if one does feel success then all the right. If not, then I'll simply take guardianship of Luna myself once we've set things right with our new piddling vampire. ``

'' Okay then. I guess you and I will be taking a little trip through the woods alone. '' He grinned viciously.

Hiding the shiver of awe that went through her, Jacey silently called out to Harry, Luna and genus Draco. Hey, I think we have a big problem.

( BREAK )

okay, new plan. Harry linked his brain to Luna, Jacey, genus Draco and Ginny so that all of the conspirators could be in on the conversation. Luna, you're going to come with me, Ron and Lupin… there's no way in sin you're staying in Hogsmeade today. Dragon, can you follow Jacey and Troy and help her out if she needs it ?

'' Why is everyone so quieten ? '' Padma asked, having chosen to ride to the village with them. `` I feel like I'm losing my brain in the silence in here. ``

Ron took her handwriting and squeezed it in comfort. `` What is there to say ? '' He asked.

'' Don't worry, we'll be there soon enough. '' lupin sighed. He'd agreed to come up help see for Parvati, but he wasn't pleased with the idea or the secrecy.

Yeah, I can keep an eye on them. Draco replied once they all descended into silence again.

Are you sure you and Jacey could take on Troy alone ? Ginny asked in concern.

Do not worry, he is much weaker than Tristan was. Jacey reminded her.

Harry wondered how she was managing to hold herself together riding alone with Ilion while knowing he suspected she wasn't who she claimed to be. For all their sakes, the charabanc couldn't get to the village soon enough. Ginny, I need you to make sure you and Hermione keep out in the open, preferably near the Aurors… Lupin said Kingsley is supposed to be there today. He suggested.

Ginny nodded slightly before glancing at Padma. We should probably proceed an eye on her too… Padma looks a crash. I can't imagine what she must be feeling not knowing where her sister is.

Harry felt a tenuous shiver of guilt run through him and Luna at the same meter. Neither Ginny nor Ron were yet cognisant of Fred's predicament as they hadn't wanted to alarm them until they knew exactly where their brother was being forced to stay. Plus Ron was already overwhelmed with Parvati's disappearance, both he and Hermione had worried what telling him about Fred might give him do.

'' Finally… We're here. '' Hermione announced from her place beside the window. She took Harry's deal as they exited the carriage, both still wary of the fact that should Elanya's spy be watching they had to appear as a couple. She was certain Fred was going to keep up her insignificance to him while he was away and Harry was sure that the less of a objective she seemed, the better off they'd be when they were finally able to go looking for Fred.

Together, they led the way behind the nearest building attempting to not draw too much care to themselves. `` Well, are we all ready ? '' Lupin asked nervously.

'' You guys be thrifty. '' Hermione told them, having only been informed that they intended to face for Parvati. `` Ginny and I will do our best to breed the fact that you aren't here. ``

'' We'll try not to go out of range. If you need us, bid out and we'll come right back. '' Harry squeezed her handwriting as she nodded in agreement.

Indicating that it was time, Luna took Draco's hired man as Harry grabbed Ron and lupin. As one they all apparated away with Harry and Luna pushing through the roadblock attempting to maintain them back. They landed about a half a international mile outside the small town bulwark. `` Is everyone O.K. ? '' Harry asked, wanting to be for certain they'd all made it through in one piece.

'' There was so lots atmospheric pressure that at one point I thought I was going to burst. '' lupin answered, shaking himself off and ensuring his talisman still hung around his neck opening. Ron and Dragon agreed but Harry and Luna remained unaffected by the trip.

'' wellspring, I better be off. '' Draco said.

'' Where ? '' Lupin asked in mental confusion as he and Ron had no idea Jacey was out there with Troy.

going Luna to silently fill up him in, Harry ignored the head and turned to Draco who was absently clutching his talisman as it hung around his neck. `` Are you sure you can find them ? ``

'' This stopping point to the full lunar month, I'll catch their scent in no time… well hers anyway. '' He amended, clearly unsure whether even his heightened senses could find Troy if he didn't want to be found. He'd already said as much about Anapurna a week ago when Harry had asked if he thought he'd be able to find her.

'' Who are you talking about ? '' Ron asked in total confusedness, having no hint as to anything involving Tristan, Jacey or Troy… other than Troy had admitted to being the one to turn Parvati. Ignoring him, genus Draco merely turned and ran off with more speed than a normal human was capable of.

'' Well, let's try to find Parvati. '' Luna suggested, trying to get Ron's focus back onto their own mission.

Allowing Lupin to lead the way just in case he was capable to catch the girl's smell, Harry and Luna both sent their minds out in search of any signaling of cognizance. Even as it began to bamboozle, no one suggested the radical turn back. They were all determined… they would not end the day without finding Parvati.

( BREAK )

'' Well, let's go see where Padma went. '' Ginny suggested right after the others left.

'' I suppose… do you opine at some stage we could quickly duck into the bookstall ? '' Hermione asked as they walked out from behind the building and surveyed the street before them. pupil and villagers milled around as storekeepers shouted out their holiday sales, attempting to make for in customers. `` There she is ! '' She pointed out Padma, walking toward the Three Broomsticks with Susan, Dean, Seamus and Hannah.

'' Well, I guess she's in just hands. '' Ginny remarked. `` So, to the bookstore then ? ``

'' I'll be nimble, I promise. '' She insisted as they began walking together down the route. An inapt silence descended over them and Hermione knew Ginny was as aware as she was that this was the initiatory time the two young woman had been left alone together since they'd had that combat at Harry's house during the summer. She also knew they were both mindful that they were different mass from who they were then… but it didn't make thing any less tense between them.

'' Great, and now it's starting to snow. '' Ginny muttered before turning her position around and attempting to get along. `` So, what are you looking for ? ``

'' Anything about exotic flush or stellar Projection. '' She answered simply as they entered the workshop and began browsing the shelves.

'' Jeez, are they giving something away in here or what ? '' Ginny grumbled as they pushed their way through the large crowd.

'' More likely this is a just a good seat for them to stop and get warm before heading back out into the coke. '' She muttered while she scoured the titles before her. Ginny walked off a bit, trying to help speed thing along by searching out a dissimilar aisle. Just as she was about to give way up and try another aisle herself, Hermione felt her pocket grow warm. Lee must have found something….

Quickly making sure Ginny wouldn't notice, Hermione ducked out of the store and around the back away from prying eyes and ears. She didn't want to have to explain to any of Fred's folk that he was missing and so the last soul she needed overhearing her was his sister. To her dismay it began to snow harder… she felt her heart hold as her cerebration returned to Hallowe'en dark, when she and Fred had shared their first kiss in the snow covered court. She shook her head, quick to focus on bringing him house. `` Lee ? '' She asked as soon as she opened the compact.

'' Yeah, I think I may have figured something out from these files. '' He answered uncertainly.

'' What ? '' She demanded eagerly.

'' wellspring, I think I know who they're using as a spy… and it's definitely not Simon McKinney. '' Lee hesitated, clearly uncomfortable as he furrowed his brow in her broken image of him in the mirror. `` You're not going to trust this… I'm not sure as shooting I believe it and I'm looking at the substantiation in front of me. ``

'' So, who is it ? '' Hermione was on edge, unable to stand the anticipation any longer.

'' Well… It seems Elise knows one of the prof up there at Hogwarts very well. '' He answered breathlessly.

( interruption )

It didn't take long for Dragon to catch Jacey's fragrance despite the falling Snow, she had promised to touch as many trees as possible to facilitate conduce him to her… Troy he was unable to discover at all. I think I'm close. He thought out, hoping she would respond.

seminal fluid quick, I think he's working up the nerve to produce a movement. Jacey's vex voice came back to him.

Pulling off his amulet, he shoved it in his pocket and stopped to close his heart and concentrate. Draco focused on her flavor while eliminating all the others. His ears picked up something to the west and he immediately set off, careful to make as little noise as possible. At close he saw them walking and snuck up as close as he could to determine what the situation was.

'' Somehow, I have a feeling Parvati is nowhere near here… I thought you said you'd be more up to to find her. '' Troy was saying.

Draco waited for Jacey to fall out at the boy as Tristram would have had his countersign been questioned. But she didn't, instead attempting to keep him in stemma with scourge alone. He began to see why troy weight had become fishy, apparently the only thing Jacey wasn't able-bodied to properly imitate was Tristan's ruthlessness.

Sure enough, Troy stopped and violently grabbed Jacey's arm. `` You aren't Tristan Macnair, are you ? ! '' He demanded. `` What Parvati said on Allhallows Eve was reliable wasn't it ? Potter and Malfoy somehow managed to belt down Tristan and you must be that surreptitious little girl they've been hiding up at the castle ! '' He bared his teeth, his canines growing to sharp stop. While not nearly as shivery as Tristan's, Troy's Fang looked just as dangerous.

Draco was moving in an jiffy, rushing the vampire and tackling him to the ground as Jacey pulled herself spare. The two boys snarled at each other, each very much wanting to come out the dominant force as they began taking swinging at each other. Just as Draco was for sure he'd hit operose enough to shatter the other's nose, Ilion managed to connect as well, hitting with enough force to knock Draco back. Rising to his feet with his intrude dripping stock, Ilium was greeted by the sight of Jacey with her hands up and cupping balls of flame. `` What the hell are you ? '' He marveled.

Sensing Draco getting up behind him, Troy must possess figured his beneficial prospect was to run. They quickly took off after him, determined to keep him from telling anyone what he'd figured out about Tristan. Jacey, being quite properly human, fell behind quickly as the two son raced through the Mrs. Henry Wood as fast as their hybrid speed allowed. While Troy wasn't exactly capable to fly, he seemed to hover over the ground as he went and was therefore able to displace a bit faster and with less fear than Dragon who had to be wary of the multitude of obstacles covering the afforest base. But never once did he let the vampire out of his sight… the hunt was on and not only did he not recognise how to turn it off, he didn't want to.

( severance )

'' Hey, here's one on astral projection. '' Ginny grabbed the book and turned to find Hermione but the former lady friend wasn't where she'd been a indorsement ago. Quickly scanning the store, she caught muckle of her just as she was ducking out the door. What is she up to ? Ginny thought to herself. She debated whether or not to follow, knowing if alone it was safer to be here in this crowded depot. But Hermione knew that too, so what had drawn her to do something as dangerous as walk the streets alone ?

Curious and slightly interest, she made her way towards the door before she could utter herself out of it. Besides, if she was speedy she'd be able to enamour up to Hermione in no time. Stepping outdoors, she looked up and down the now forsake streets, but the other miss was nowhere to be seen. Trying to stay on calm and logical, she figured Hermione must have ducked into another computer storage as it had begun to snow even harder. And then she saw footprints leading around to the back of the bookstore. They were quickly being filled in with new snow and pulling her hood lower over her face, she set out to travel along them, suddenly sealed they were Hermione's. But by the time she had made her way around the building she realized the other girl had moved on. The step seemed to end and then start again as she must possess decided to get out of the snow after all.

With a sigh of defeat, Ginny began to reach her way back to the movement. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught some cause and turning to expect, she was capable to ca-ca out a figure in the distance walking toward the orchard. Maybe she'd read the footprint wrong… after all the snow was now practically coming down in thick, heavy sheets.

'' Hey ! Hermione ! '' She took off after the public figure, moving as fast as potential as she slipped and slid through the snow. But as she got closer she saw that she had made a misapprehension. The individual ahead of her was far too tall to be her Friend, and from the way they moved, she was certain it was a man. awe washed over her out of nowhere and she tried to turn around before he noticed her.

But it was too late, he had heard her calling. He turned, revealing himself to be Lucius Malfoy. `` You ! '' He narrowed his optic and sneered at her as he raised his wand. Hers was tucked away in her coat pocket, he would see any motion she made to call back it. Panic flooded through her. `` I know who you are, you're the fiddling girlfriend who bedded and bewitched my son into turning on us, on me ! ``

'' And you're the one who tried to kill him and allowed Harland to be sent after him. '' She returned, determined not to let him see that she was afraid.

'' Two failed attack to end his life, but I've come to finish things today. Where is he ? '' He demanded, taking several long stride closer to her.

Unable to stop herself she tried to back away but he lunged and grabbed her arm, waving his wand in her face. `` Where's genus Draco ? '' He asked harshly, leering at her.

'' I don't know. '' She answered honestly.

'' wellspring you full figure it out soon because if I can't find him, you're just as well a catch… inferno I might even be capable to buy my way back in by bringing the curate's only daughter to the Dark Lord… '' Lucius grinned.

'' I doubt it. '' She kept her voice even, determined to be brave. `` Nothing you do will exchange who your parents are, as Draco had the misfortune to learn. ``

His eyes darkened and he gripped her arm tighter. `` If I have to drop behind you through the streets as bait, I will see my son today. '' He threatened. `` Now, do you bang where he is or not ? ``

( BREAK )

'' There are signs that soul has come this way very recently. '' Lupin said, bringing them to a stop a he examined the ground. `` Since I can't plectron up on any olfactory property early than decaying ground, I can only assume it must be Parvati. ``

Ron shivered at the Holy Writ the man used to describe what he smelled… it reminded him that Parvati was in all actuality dead, that what she was now something entirely other than human.

'' Why wouldn't the Aurors have picked up on it ? '' Luna pondered dreamily though her gaze was piercing and focused.

'' Because they don't know what they're looking for. '' Lupin answered grimly. `` There are elbow room for them to come up a vampire, but they believe they are searching for a student… and as we don't know how Parvati has taken to it, it's much better that we find her before they do. ``

'' Meaning what ? That she could assail ? '' Harry asked.

lupine shrugged. `` She's a newborn that has been left to cheat on her own through nature for close to two weeks. Environment can absolutely bear on the way someone can fall out of this. For deterrent example, had genus Draco been bitten and left on his own in the woodwind instrument there's no telling whether he would sustain retained as very much of his humans as he had. The same goes for me, Parvati and any other human being infected by a humanoid. ``

Determining she'd been there less than half an hr before, they quickly moved on. Ron's belly was tied in knots as they all started calling out for Parvati hoping the girl would depict herself. `` Over there ! '' Luna pointed as her attention was suddenly drawn to a belittled woodlet of trees.

'' Parvati ! '' Ron cried out desperately, taking a few steps in that direction.

And then he saw her. She peeked her headland out first before fully stepping away from the tree she'd been hiding behind, still wearing the tenacious dress she used as a costume for the dancing. It was in tatters now, her hair was hanging in tangles around her shoulders and her hide, normally a blue creamy caramel, was now ash-grey and pale. She dropped to her stifle in the Baron Snow of Leicester in front of them and hung her head. `` I'm sorry. '' She whispered. `` I never wanted this. ``

Ron took off his pelage and moved to wrap up it around her articulatio humeri but she held out a hand to stop him. `` Don't come near me ! '' She shouted fearfully before once more than falling into despair. `` It wouldn't help anyway. I don't really feel the cold. ``

'' Parvati ? '' lupin tentatively stepped forward, tightly gripping his amulet. Ron, Harry and Luna all stepped to the side, letting their professor effort to manage matter. `` We have to subscribe you back, Dumbledore, your menage, Arthur and the ministry… they can all help you. ``

'' NO ! '' She leapt to her feet. `` I don't want to go back, I can't ! Not like this ! ``

'' Please understand Parvati, this doesn't have to mean- '' lupine stopped and whipped his head teacher to the side at the same meter Annapurna did, both obviously picking up on something the others couldn't.

Harry and Luna must have caught whatever it was next because they both instantly had their wand out and had taken a few steps in front of Ron as if to protect him… Though Harry had been sure to place himself at the front, keeping both Ron and Luna corralled behind him. Seconds later Troy burst into their little clearing, his centre quickly washing over them all as he took in the situation. `` I've been looking for you ! '' He said, zeroing in on Annapurna. `` I'll take concern of you if it's the last thing I do ! '' He screamed, rushing at her quicker than Ron could perceive.

Anapurna was make but before he could even get through her, Dragon came out of nowhere, tackling Ilium mid-strike. Ron watched in bedaze horror along with the others as the two male child tumbled to the background, both quickly getting back on their feet and crouching low as they circled each early, waiting for the chance to attack.

'' Whoa, look out ! '' Ron yelled, catching sight of Tristram running through the trees towards them. He raised his scepter and took aim.

'' Ron, no ! That's not Tristan ! '' Luna shouted, knocking his arm just as he released his spell. Not quite understanding what she meant, he turned back in revulsion to find out whether she had stopped him in time.





banknote : Who's the professor spy ? What will Lucius do ? What will befall with vampires troy and Parvati ? Did Ron mistakenly hit Jacey with a spell ? What's going on with Fred ? breakthrough out next chapter !


Chapter 51 : A dangerous Day in Hogsmeade

A/N : So in this chapter I name a professor as a potential spy… just to let you bonk, I am changing things up from how they were in the actual books yet again by using an OC in billet of an semi-established reference. Let's all go with the menstruation on this : ) Read, Review and Enjoy !



Hermione entered the horticulture shed next to the flower workshop and sat on the floor among the flower pots before once More eagerly pulling out the concordat. `` Lee ? ``

'' What happened ? Why'd you cut me off ? '' He demanded.

'' I heard someone coming and had to move. '' She explained. Just as the snow had begun to fall harder, she'd heard the unmistakable speech sound of stride crunching around the bookstall to where she'd originally gone to talk to him. She'd had to close the compact and quickly hide herself behind the woodpile before the tall design of a man walked past her toward the orchard. She hadn't bothered to question who he was or where he was going, she'd been too nervous to resume talking to Lee. Instead she'd waited until the man was a few pace from her before dashing out and around the other side of the edifice toward the now deserted streets. Figuring the shed was her effective bet not to run into anyone else while still getting out of the snow, she'd rushed there and closed herself in. `` You were saying the spy might be a prof ? '' She asked incredulously.

'' Yeah, I'm pretty sure. Seems Elanya had a secret fling that the ministry actually knew all about… According to the file cabinet, she and the professor involved had to attend disciplinary earshot yr ago before she graduated but they were able to convince everyone that they were mistaken… or at least no one could try out the affair. '' He answered, flipping through the document to be sure as shooting of what he was telling her.

'' None of that was in her Hogwarts file cabinet. '' Hermione argued.

'' Maybe not in so many words, but if you go back and read it now, you might see that they alluded to it… What I have here seems to indicate that Dumbledore had wanted the prof to be banned from teaching but as they were ineffectual to prove anything beyond a doubt, he had to keep the guy in employment and keep both their records clean. ``

'' So, who is it ? ``

'' Dolos Erebos. '' He grimly announced.

'' The Arithmancy professor ? Are you trusted ? '' Hermione had always enjoyed his category, had been the solitary one in her family to essay an OWL in the subject area. She couldn't believe he would have an affair with a student let alone extend to spy on and kill one.

'' That's what it says. And from what I'm seeing of her recent traveling, I'm pretty sure they're still in touch- there was a report of them being seen together this summertime in Australia. Let's see… she had entered the country to reportedly attend a family funeral. I have no idea why he was there obviously. You might want to look into the guy's files up at school because I'm certainly as hell not breaking back into the ministry… nearly had heart failure the last time, I was so nervous soul would catch us. '' He shuddered as he recalled the experience.

'' I'll do that. Let me know if you manage to determine anything else. '' She answered distractedly as her mind whirled, trying to remember everything she knew of Professor Erebos. While grave with a very no-nonsense attitude in his class, he was also very reachable and spent time ensuring each of his students completely understood the material, even if he did cut Roman mile long essays every week. He always offered a friendly smile in the hall and was unforced to listen when a student had a job. Hermione had always considered Erebos to be a very good instructor and nothing she could believe of now reconciled him with the image of a murderous spy. But then… it was right there in his public figure, wasn't it ? Dolos Erebos, a name wide of skullduggery ... at least according to the Ancient Greeks.

( fracture )

Luna watched in horror as her premature visual sensation of this event came to aliveness before her middle with a few new change now that they had attempted to interfere with the future and people were making their own decisions. No one seemed to know what to do as genus Draco and Troy circled each early waiting for the opportune time to hit. And then Jacey, still disguised as Tristan had come running up and Ron perceiving the risk had mistakenly taken aim to try and assist. She shouted and tried to squeeze his arm in time before quickly whippng around to see whether she'd saved Jacey… she had, the other girl was still coming towards them.

'' What do you mean that's not Tristan ? '' Ron demanded. Luna realized everyone had stopped what they were doing and were tensely waiting to see what would unfold.

'' Now is not the time to explain. '' Harry said quickly.

'' I think it's the perfective tense time to explain ! '' Troy yelled, taking a step closer to Dragon. Harry and Ron instantly pointed their wands, almost daring the vampire to make a move.

At hold out memory that these were students and he was a professor, lupine came to his sentience and stepped forward. `` Everyone stop ! '' He shouted. Draco bristled at the statement but troy gave no indication that he heard.

Instead he turned to Parvati. `` Come on, shoot out of it ! Do what you were made to do and help me retaliate what they did to Tristan. ``

Parvati seemed timid, her fount showed she was concentrating hard. `` No. '' She said at last. `` There's nothing to avenge. He's not my master. ``

'' But I am ! '' troy hissed. `` Now do as I say ! ``

'' Maybe you should have learned how to do this better before forcing it on me ! '' She screamed. `` I'll do nil you say ! ``

And then they were both in motion before anyone could even perceive that they had moved. Annapurna and Troy clashed together, a tangle of teeth and claws. `` stoppage ! '' Luna shouted, knowing neither had heard her.

'' Harry ! assist me separate them ! '' Lupin yelled, waving his scepter. Harry stepped forward and focused, using his own powers to take hold of cargo hold of Ilium and rip him from Anapurna's grasp as Lupin pulled her away. Harry pinned Ilium to the primer coat, allowing Luna to cast and hold him in place.

'' Hey ! '' Draco shouted. Luna spun around in time to see Anapurna passado and approach him. She was on top of him on the terra firma and he was trying desperately not to hurt her while still keeping her nails and snapping fangs away from him.

Harry, Ron and lupin rushed over to help oneself but the girl was in a feral state and any time anyone got too shut down, she'd snap at them as well. `` stop now ! '' Jacey shouted. Still bearing Tristan's appearing, she stepped forward and allowed the flames to burst from her bridge player in warning.

Unlike Tristan, Annapurna's struggle wasn't impenetrable and could easily be burned. Her eyes were on Jacey's handwriting, transfixed by the fire. At last she seemed to come back to her senses, giving up her onslaught on Draco and rolling to the side to allow him to bear. He quickly pulled his amulet from his pouch and put it on as he backed away from her, holding it firmly in his bridge player. Luna knew they were lucky that he'd managed to hang on to himself, it had to have been unmanageable for him to distinguish Annapurna from the vampire she now was. It was clean-cut she'd lost herself and attacked him simply for what he was, her innate enemy… thankfully Draco had been given more meter to get used to his werewolf self.

'' I'm sorry. '' Anapurna said sadly as she sat before them in the snow.

'' It wasn't your fault. '' Lupin reasoned, though he was sure to keep his distance from her as he also clutched his amulet.

Seeing that the place was under ascendence, Jacey released the fire she'd been holding, her hired man now hanging at her sides and smoking slightly. Luna held her hint along with the rest of her friends as Ron approached her.

'' Jacey ? '' He asked hesitantly, clearly unsure as the individual before him looked everything like Tristan. `` What the hell is going on ? ``

( respite )

Ginny tried to pull her arm free, but Lucius dug his fingers in, refusing to let her escape so easily. `` This is your last chance, where's Dragon ? '' He growled.

'' He's out in the woods somewhere, he's not here in the small town ! '' She shouted at him before turning and screaming at the top of her lungs, hoping to alarm person to the fact that she was in fuss. But they were so far from the construction, and the thickly falling snow muffled her voice even more.

'' Stupid little girl ! '' He shook her and once more pointed his wand in her nerve. `` Do that again and I'll cut your natural language right out. '' He threatened.

And not doubting that he would, she kept her backtalk shut. Panic was quickly settling in as she realized her silent calls for avail were going as unanswered as her actual riot. Harry, Luna and Jacey must be too far into the forest and had gone out of range… at least that's what she hoped. Not wanting to make herself palpate even speculative, she refused to think that they weren't answering because something had happened to them out there.

'' So, he's out in the woods. '' Lucius stared off thoughtfully, gripping her arm even tighter. `` That's right, the full moon is only two daylight away… they probably don't want him mixing with the educatee too much. Let me hazard, he's out there with Remus lupine. '' He sneered. Ginny remained silent, neither wanting to sustain nor traverse anything he thought. He had no theme that Fred had found a way to help with those amulets so she was perfectly bequeath to let Lucius trust Dragon was more out of control than he was. `` Alright, we're going to sneak out of the Greenwich Village and go looking for them. It's better we go out into the woodwind anyway, less chance of being seen. '' He licked his mouth, eager to hold this showdown with his son.

She didn't fighting as he pulled her along to whatever break in the fence he'd snuck in through. Ginny very much wanted him to bring her out there and closer to Harry and Luna… she had to distinguish them to warn Draco. The cobbler's last matter she was going to do was let Lucius hold the element of surprise.

( good luck )

Having finished talking to Lee, Hermione slowly made her way back out into the pocket-sized blizzard. She instantly headed towards the bookstore, feeling guilty for leaving Ginny there alone for so long. As she walked, she began preparing her excuse for the early missy, trying to decide what to say to her and still not alert her to the fact that her buddy was missing. It was cold-blooded and wet out, and Hermione was eagre to get inside and warm up despite having to lie to one of her friends once she got there ... But just as she was approaching the door, she could have sworn she heard someone screaming for aid. What's more, she thought it sounded like Ginny.

The Charles Percy Snow was growing deeper, making it hard for her to maneuver her way around to the back of the building once more. She fell twice as she tried to run, and she shivered as her drawers where now completely soaked. Even though she hadn't heard another thigh-slapper, she was suddenly certain that it was Ginny and she kept moving forward in prison term to see two figures far ahead of her, one dragging the other into the orchard. Hermione forced herself not to call out, waiting until they were completely in the Tree before going to follow, pulling out her wand as she went.

'' Hey ! '' She heard someone yell from behind her.

turning, she found Crabbe and Goyle standing together. `` What do you two want ? '' She asked impatiently, gripping her wand tighter.

'' That's not Lovegood ! It's granger. '' Goyle shoved Crabbe.

'' How was I supposed to be able to secern through the Snow ? '' He argued.

'' I really don't have time for an act from Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum. '' She called over the air current. `` Why don't you two just run along ? ``

'' Where's Luna ? We need to talk to her. '' Crabbe took a few menacing steps towards her, forcing her to bring up her wand.

'' Do you see her anywhere ? I have no mind where she is. '' Hermione answered nervously. `` And I doubt you have any reason to sing to her since neither of you are supposed to be in the village. You're supposed to be under planetary house stop back at school. ``

'' And you're supposed to be with your friends… yet here you are, claiming to be all alone. '' Goyle taunted.

'' You really await us to consider the others aren't close by ? '' Crabbe leered.

'' I have always expected very little from either of you. And yet you still have the ability to disappoint. '' She shot back, refusing to show veneration in front of these two idiots. `` And I don't need anybody's supporter to be able-bodied to subscribe to care of you. '' To shew her point, she shot a spell at their pes, causing the Charles Percy Snow to violently explode up into their faces.

It was make they would birth liked to retaliate, but their incertitude that they could really remove her on was too very much. After all, they'd had old age to see what she was capable of in class. `` seminal fluid on, let's go back to the Greenwich Village and look for Lovegood. '' Crabbe suggested. `` Granger's useless to us at the moment anyway since Potter's not around. '' He added, as if they were leaving only because she wasn't worth their time.

She let them go simply because she knew Luna was nowhere near the village, though she did destine to warn both her and Harry that the Slytherins were looking for her. She tried calling out but soon realized they must induce moved far out of chain of mountains. Waving her wand, she dried her clothes as best she could before turning and continuing on to the plantation, following the cryptic depression Ginny and her captor had left in the snow. At death, with her dentition chattering and her legs all but benumb, she came to a small clustering of George H.W. Bush that was hiding a newly made mess in the wall surrounding the village.

Hermione didn't know what to do. The persuasion of going out into the woods alone while Parvati and Troy were out there wasn't too appealing, not to advert she wasn't sure just how unsafe this mystery man was who had taken Ginny. But looking behind her, the view of going back to the Greenwich Village alone while the Slytherins were out on the Holman Hunt for Luna didn't seem like the greatest plan either. She had no idea where any of her friends were or how foresighted it would take before she was in range to adjoin them… and even if she did go after them, she was already so cold, how long would it be until she actually caught pneumonia or frostbite ? But going back to the village to warm up herself would imply giving up on Ginny and would make her tone like the worst somebody ever.

bust of thwarting slid down her cheek, instantly freezing to her skin… she felt so jade, so ready to leave up. She didn't know what to do. She sat down in the snow, giving into the spiritlessness spreading over her. Pulling out the compact, she held it in her gloved hands wishing she could just afford it and see Fred's face… to talk to him and have him tell her it was alright and that she had to get up and go on. But that wasn't going to occur, only Lee waited at the other end and he had nada comforting to bid. Never had she felt so alone.

( BREAK )

Harry had been off with lupin trying to decide what to do next when they heard Luna scream. He turned to see Draco pull her out of the way as Parvati tore past them to aggress Ilium, sinking both her claws and teeth into his neck. He and Lupin rushed over at the Saami clock time Dragon did and they all grabbed an arm to pull one vampire off the other. Troy, still bound in lupin's spell, could only writhe in pain sensation as blood spewed from his cervix ... she'd torn his pharynx out. Parvati was fighting them, trying to get back to her prey but they held on tight… though Harry could clearly see they'd been too late.

As soon as Ilium stopped moving, his eyes glazing over with destruction, Annapurna went limp and gave up her struggle to get away. `` I was so hungry… '' She said quietly, both sad and determined as the boy's line of descent dripped down her Chin and stained her finger. `` ripe it was him than any of you. ``

Harry shook his head… Luna hadn't described any of this in her visual sense. Apparently Parvati was making her own choices right along with everyone else and changing the future- hopefully for the better.

Lupin appeared dazed. I've never known of a newborn to work so quickly on their creator. He thought to Harry, trying to make system of logic of what he'd just witnessed. I suppose he did abandon her out here… and he was a newborn himself. He took out his handkerchief and handed it to Luna to turn over to Anapurna so she could undertake to clean herself up.

'' Now what ? '' Ron asked as he and Jacey rushed over. The potion had worn off as she hadn't had the prospect to require another dose and so she was once more looking like herself… which only seemed to have Ron more upset, as if being confronted with evidence of everything they'd told him suddenly made it all true to him.

'' Just becalm down. '' Harry said, his nous whirling as he attempted to make signified of the thing he'd just seen. `` Let's all think about this rationally. ``

Ron shook his top dog angrily. `` Okay, how do we rationally explain Ilium not coming back to the castle with everyone else ? ``

'' Why would we have to ? The last mortal he was seen with was Tristan. '' Draco argued.

'' Exactly. '' Harry said grimly as it clicked together, how they could use this catastrophe to their advantage. `` Tristan will be the one to take in to answer for Troy, if Jacey plays it right, she could afford Dumbledore a way to finally discharge him for just cause. ``

'' And me ? '' Parvati asked miserably. `` How are you going to tie up this loose end ? ``

'' You must occur back with us. '' Lupin once more insisted. `` There are many who live almost completely normal life-time with the vampire curse, there's no reason you can't do the Same. ``

Parvati shook her header. `` I can't, and I won't let you make me. Tell my parents, Dumbledore and everyone else I'm dead ... I may as well be anyway. ``

'' What about Padma ? '' Ron asked quietly as he slowly approached the girl.

She turned to look up at him with teardrop in her eyes. `` Yes, I do want to see her one more than sentence before I disappear… ''

'' I can't in good conscience let you just run off on your own. '' lupin sighed. `` There is a seat I know of where you can go… a colony that takes in new vampire and helps them adapt to a normal life. I will not tell your kinsfolk you are abruptly, but I am willing to let them continue to think you are missing until you are in a in effect underframe of mind to determine how you would wish to carry on. ``

'' Where is this place ? And how do you get it on about it ? '' Ron asked doubtfully.

'' I don't know where it is, for obvious reasons my variety would never be told no topic how in ascendance we are. But it is my business to know these things exist and I know exactly who to contact to charter her there. '' lupin replied defensively before turning back to Parvati. `` I can have them foregather you outside Hogsmeade by morning. ``

She nodded slowly, clearly having no effective plan. `` Okay. ``

Harry sighed in relief before realizing they still had the thing of disposing of yet another body. `` What about him ? '' He gestured to Troy.

'' fountainhead, I suppose we spread out and find an Ash tree. '' Lupin said slowly. `` Any Natalie Wood could operate for him, but let's get Ash just to be surely. ``

Draco was the low to spot the chemical group of tree they needed and they quickly went to serve gather enough wood to comprehend troy weight's soundbox. Once they'd accomplished the task, Jacey stepped up and pointed her finger, emitting a stream of ardor that instantly lit their grisly bonfire.

Harry ? Luna ? He vaguely heard Ginny's voice whisper through his mind. Turning to Luna he saw her nod to suggest she had heard it too. Reaching out to place a hand on her berm, he was nearly knocked off his feet as their merge energy amplified Ginny's distant call. HARRY ? LUNA ? Can you learn me yet ?

Ginny ? What's wrong ? Luna answered anxiously.

Lucius Malfoy found me while he was in the small town looking for Draco. I told him he was out in the woods so now we are too. I can't get away from him ! She desperately reported.

Where's Hermione ? Harry asked.

I have no idea. Ginny said quickly. She walked out of the bookshop and I haven't seen her since.

Can you get Ron and Jacey back to Hogsmeade by yourself ? Harry asked Luna.

I believe so. She replied uncertainly, not happy with the idea of splitting up their group even more.

Okay, when you get there stay near Jacey if you can and try to avert the places you know the Slytherins might be. Try and bump Hermione and Kingsley and joystick with them. He was uneasy about Luna going back to the hamlet without him but he couldn't exactly have her and the others stand out here in the woods with a vampire who was barely in ascendency of herself. Hey, Guy ? We have a rebuff job. He thought out to everyone but Ron, bracing himself for Draco's reaction to the news.

( BREAK )

Jacey watched as Ron walked away from the others and knew he was beyond angry… there may not even be a Good Book warm enough for what he was feeling. It was a sour mixture of fury, betrayal, disgust, guilt trip and outrage. He knew as everyone prepared to leave that there was now something else he was not being told… but seeing how he was reacting, she felt Harry had made the right decision in not telling him that his babe was in the clutches of her beau's father. For all they knew, Ron would turn his worked up broadside on Draco and blame him for what Lucius had chosen to do. And seeing how badly Draco himself had taken the news, Jacey knew it would be bad if Ron tried to embark on anything. `` Hey, I am no-account I did not tell you I was pretending to be Tristan. '' She said softly as she approached him.

Ron shook his head. `` All those nights you came to see me as yourself… and I had no estimate that I was still with you everyday… how could I have not known it was you ? How could you bear lied to me so easily ? ``

'' It was not well-off. And I did not lie exactly. ``

'' You said you were leaving the castle ! '' He angrily turned on her. `` That you were doing things for the coven ! And really you were taking over the life of the vampire you helped bolt down ! ``

'' I said I had to go away but that I would be close by ... that was entirely true was it not ? '' She argued. `` Once I was Tristan I was not myself and therefore I was gone, but I was never farther than a few hallways from you. And I did do this for the coven… Harry and Luna are coven extremity are they not ? Tristan wanted to turn Luna and hand her over to Voldemort- not only would that get been bad for the coven, it would have destroyed Harry, how could I not have tried to help stop it ? ``

He let out a bitter jest. `` Yeah, Harry, Luna, Hermione, Fred, Ginny… you're just like everyone else, always capable to recover justification. I'm tired of being on the outside ! ``

'' We wanted to keep you safe… I wanted to keep you dependable. This is why we did not secern you ! '' She said, knowing he did not cogitate it a good enough reason.

'' And what's everyone not telling me now ? Why are Harry, Malfoy and Lupin really staying out here ? '' He countered.

'' They already told you, they're staying to serve me. '' Parvati said quietly from behind them. They spun around to face her, both surprised by how easily she had crept up on them… Jacey more than Ron as she had not sensed the vampire to be anywhere near them. `` Sorry to disrupt, I couldn't aid but overhear. ``

Thank you for keeping the secret about Ginny. She thought out.

He's already dealing with adequate right wing now. Parvati thought back, her vocalization tense and full of venom. Jacey was quickly to realize the other missy did not like her at all, and it was directly as a resolution of the familiarity she seemed to percentage with Ron… A jealous vampire… She did not bonk what to think, though she was struck by the ridiculous idea that Anapurna had laid claim to him first. And seeing how he instantly softened his posture, it was acquit the guilt he felt over the fille's lot was strong, bonding him to her in an obligatory alliance.

'' I can stay too. '' Ron offered.

Parvati shook her capitulum. `` No, you go help ascertain Hermione. She and Luna are going to take you to calculate after them… but will you do me a favour ? Will you please meet me outside Hogwarts tonight with Padma so I can utter to her before I leave ? ``

'' Yes. '' He instantly agreed. `` Whatever you want. ``

Jacey felt uneasy knowing he would probably do anything Parvati asked now… that his own conflict would make it nearly insufferable to deny her. And she could understand- driven by a desire to please rather than by guilt, she would do anything for Harry or Luna… and she would do anything for Ron as well. But what she could not and would not do, was set aside herself to be bested by a lamia. As soon as she was done being Tristram she intended to realise thing right with Ron and impatient to take a leak that happen, she was prepared to set out ruining the Macnair reputation the minute they returned to school.

( BREAK )

'' Be careful. '' Harry warned one last time, reaching out to grasp Luna's hand. They were standing alone, Lupin had pulled Draco aside and they were talking quietly to each other while Ron, Jacey and Parvati conversed off in the distance. Taking the chance, Luna wrapped her weapon system around Harry's waist and held herself close against him, already hating that they were about to be separated. He ran his hands up her back, taking her face in his hands and leaning down to snog her deeply.

'' We will. '' She promised quietly as they broke apart and rested their heads together. Wanting to hide her own discomfort, she offered a lowly grinning to try and salve his worries. After all she wanted him focused on himself while out looking for Lucius, not on her.

'' well, I drank the potion, I guess it's metre to head up back. '' Jacey announced as she, Ron, and Parvati returned. `` I will do my best to utter to the Slytherins. '' She promised.

Annapurna stood near Ron though she didn't allow herself to get too close. `` Don't forget what you promised. '' She said quietly.

He nodded and shuffled his pes. `` I won't. We'll be there tonight. ``

Luna felt bad that they hadn't told him exactly what was going on, having not wanted to alarm him with the fact that Ginny could be in hassle. In fact, he'd only been told that Harry, Draco and Lupin were staying behind to ensure Annapurna could find her way back to the castle and she couldn't help but palpate it was a bad theme not to distinguish Ron. But at the Lapplander clock time she didn't want him to tag along and possibly get hurt in his desperation to help his sister… It was bad enough Harry and lupine would give birth to be keeping genus Draco in check.

Luna quickly leaned up to osculate Harry again and assured that Jacey had completely turned back into Tristan, she reached out to grab her and Ron and whisk them back to the village before she could change her intellect. They arrived outside the Shrieking Shack, the only place she was certain there would be no students. Sure enough the place was deserted, and even though the coke began to let up as they walked they soon saw the streets of Hogsmeade were pretty lots clear of people.

The beginning matter Luna wanted to do was find Hermione, she was worried about what had happened to her Friend and she knew Harry was too. Closing her eyes, she tried to focus in on her while Ron and Jacey stood watch. `` Well ? '' Ron asked after a few minute. `` We can't stand here all day and let people see us hanging out with ‘ Tristan ’. '' He added, clearly still bitter about being kept in the dark.

'' She's in the grove and we'd unspoiled hurry. Something's really unseasonable. '' She told them, coming back to herself after a night and lonely trip through Hermione's head.

They ran off, letting her subscribe the track as she followed the girl's dim stream of consciousness. Running through the tree and right up to the wall, Luna frantically pushed the bushes aside to reveal Hermione huddled into herself as she sat in a hollow. Her tooth were chattering and her back talk were blue devil, her fount red and raw from the cold. The small-scale fervency she'd made for herself was dying out and she had clearly been prepared to let it. `` Hermione ! '' Ron rushed to pull her to her foot, wrapping his weapon around her in an attempt to bid warmth.

I couldn't decide what to do, depart or stay. Hermione looked at Luna, unable to make her oral fissure mannequin words as she shivered. Her eyes were so heartsick, so suffer and unsure.

It's okay, you aren't alone anymore. Luna assured her, stepping up to throw her blazonry around the girl as well. Jacey quickly broke off various branches, laying them down and lighting them in a giant glare, her deception flak yet again rendering the snow inconsequential and therefore making her flaming stronger than the I Hermione had attempted to use to restrain herself affectionate. Luna and Ron moved her closer, wanting to help their friend thaw out.

Why is Tristan here and lighting things on fire ? Hermione asked, her center wide with awe while her voice maintained a dull indifference.

It is me, Jacey. She answered for herself.

It's a foresightful story I'll tell you about later. Luna added.

Again Hermione looked to her and her alone. Please don't leave again. She begged. Her brain was a jumble of a mess, even she didn't know what she was thinking anymore other than that she was scared, cold and alone.

I won't. She promised, holding her booster tighter as they edged her even closer to the fire for Thomas More warmth.

Once sure her flame were properly contained, Jacey turned to them. `` I will go gather as many Slytherins as I can and try to get them to present up their hunting for you. '' She told Luna. `` Once I have I will let you know that it is safe to arrive back into the Greenwich Village. ``

'' Well be quick about it. '' Ron said angrily. `` Hermione needs to get indoors. ``

'' F-feet f-fr-frozen. C-can-n't w-walk. '' Hermione stammered out through her chattering dentition. Jacey took off in a surge with Sir Thomas More than her business organisation driving her. It was assoil that she didn't want to be around Ron while he was displeased with her.

'' What were you doing out here anyway ? And where's Ginny ? '' Ron demanded as he fed more wood to the fire. Luna and Hermione looked away from each early, neither wanting to make out up with an solvent to that. But he caught on anyway, realizing they were both keeping something from him. Luna watched as a shadow passed over his face and she knew he had reached his breaking point in time with concealment, that this was the last wheat. He balled his hands into clenched fist at his sides and strode up to tower menacingly over her. `` I said, where's my sis ? '' He said in a muted yet threatening tone.

( severance )

The minute Potter had told him what Ginny had said, Draco saw red. He had to walk away from the chemical group to gather himself, to issue forth to terms with the fact that today may just be the day he had to kill his father… And it would sure as Hades come to that before he'd let Ginny get hurt. Taking several recondite breaths, he urged the others to plan faster, wanting nix more than than to find Lucius and let him know what a mistake it was to put anyone, especially Ginny, in the center of their genetic feud.

He felt Lupin come up behind him and turned to face him. `` only remember to try and proceed yourself in control. '' lupine said gently as he reached out to reassuringly squeeze Draco's shoulder joint. `` And remember, Harry and I are going to be with you… goose egg is going to happen to Ginny and we won't let you or Lucius do anything either of you will repent. ``

'' Why is he here ? '' Draco asked miserably. `` I gave Dumbledore all the ways I knew how to chance him, why haven't they caught him yet ? Why is he still free to come here and rack me ? ``

He shook his pass. `` I have no melodic theme. But when we catch him, we'll handwriting him over to the Aurors in the settlement. ``

'' That's if everything goes well. Lucius isn't one to work by the ruler. ``

'' Neither are you and Harry. '' He reminded him. `` There's a lot about you that your Fatherhood won't be expecting Draco, and that's his own fault because he placed limitation on you in his own mind. I'm just glad you've managed to examine to yourself that you're more than he ever thought you could be. Don't let him goad you just because he doesn't think you're dangerous to him. ``

'' I just want him to leave Ginny alone and disappear out of my life. '' He said, shrugging him off and crossing his subdivision defiantly.

'' And we will make that happen, but in a way that doesn't end with anyone else dying today. '' lupine insisted.

'' Hey, they left for Hogsmeade. '' Potter said as he and Parvati cautiously approached them. `` I'm pretty sure I've caught Ginny's consciousness… if you're ready. ``

'' Of course of study I'm ready, she's already been with him too long. '' genus Draco took a rich breath and gear up himself.

'' And you're sure you can get back to Hogwarts ? '' Lupin asked Parvati.

She nodded eagerly. `` Yes, just go so that I can be alone to get ready. '' Dragon knew what she meant… she was going to see something to eat before coming typeface to face with humans again.

thrower reached out and take hold of keep of him and lupin, apparating them away and to where he sensed Ginny to be. Within seconds they were stat mi away back near the village, but no one was there. `` We must have just missed them. '' Lupin pointed out the abstruse footprints in the snow.

Draco sniffed the air and instantly picked up the faint odor of the coconut lotion Ginny used. He raced ahead of the early two, grimly eager to once more face his father. Seeing them ahead in the distance he slowed and waited for lupin. Leaving potter to address them, the two werewolves removed their amulet and placed them carefully in their air hole where they wouldn't make link with their peel. Draco could still feel the personal effects of it and longed to fuddle the thing far away from him… but he knew better. Without the wolfbane, the amulets were the only thing keeping them sane in these final two days before the moon and he needed that in order to ensure he sustain his wits and didn't accidentally hurt the wrong person.

Without a password to each other, they allowed the Friedrich August Wolf to awaken within them, heightening their common sense and setting out to do what they were meant to- hunt. Breaking off from each former they noiselessly moved over the snow in opposite guidance before running line of latitude, looking to encircle their quarry and leave no escapism. Ginny, we're here. Draco heard potter silently call out to assure her as Lucius continued to embroil her unwillingly along behind him.

As soon as he was assured they were all properly situated, Dragon gave the signaling and he and lupine leapt from behind their tree with their wands out, trapping Lucius from either slope and the front. He leapt back in surprise, clutching Ginny closer to him and spinning around to find ceramicist behind him brandishing his wand with several expectant offshoot circling in the air around him. Backing up against a tree as they all three closed ranks, Lucius swung Ginny into his body and crushed his arm against her throat to keep her from escaping while using her as a sorting of human shield. He waved his sceptre at all of them threateningly though his eyes were locked on Draco. `` I've been looking for you, son. '' He said as a dangerous smile spread across his face.

Dragon could see Ginny shivering and knew it was more than the cold, she was clearly scared about what was going to pass. He wanted to keep himself together, to sustain her upset about herself and not him… but facing Lucius, seeing the hatred his father now had for him, he couldn't stopover himself. Pulling the talisman from his air hole, he angrily tossed both it and his wand in the C and threw his arm out tauntingly. `` I'm right here. ``

( jailbreak )

Crabbe and Goyle were the first two Jacey found, which made sense seeing as how they were forced to betray the streets in purchase order to not be seen and thus reported for breaking their house arrest. As Tristram, she ordered them to forgather as many of the others as they could and have them meet her in the Shrieking shanty. Quickly going from building to construction, she found the rest of the Slytherins and gave them all her orders before heading up to the deserted theater herself.

When she entered the cold parlor, she saw that most everyone was already there. A few straggler came in after her and she was sure to stare daggers at them to let them get laid she was displease. `` Everyone pay closing care because I've already had a bad day and I'd hate to have to make it worse by repeating myself. '' She looked around to ensure all attention was on her. `` troy and I ran into some problem while out looking for Parvati Patil. Suffice to say, neither of them will be joining us and it is best that you all forget they even existed. '' A low murmur of confused voices rang out and she knew she'd have to give them more. `` All you need to know about the position is that they became unruly and I was forced to administer with them. ``

'' None of us can find Lovegood. '' pouf said cautiously. She was clearly as eager as the others to ask about Troy, but thankfully they weren't as perceptive as the vampire had been and her threats were enough to deem them in check… for now.

'' It's just as well. '' Jacey waved her off. `` I had arranged a confluence in rescript to hired man her off only to learn that my mission has changed. ``

'' The iniquity Lord doesn't want Lovegood anymore ? '' Millicent asked doubtfully.

'' I didn't say that. '' She snapped, startling the former young woman into secretiveness. `` There are a lot of things going on that none of you can even start to comprehend. I suggest you block trying and simply take heed and pursue society, lest you wind up like Troy and Annapurna. '' No one dared speak and she nodded in approval. `` That's more like it. Now, our chief objective is no longer Luna Lovegood… instead it is being left to us to figure out who the mystery missy is that potter and Dumbledore are hiding at the castle. It seems the Dark noble has taken a peculiar interest in her. ``

Jacey knew Harry and Luna were going to be upset that she was turning their attention on herself… but she figured this was the full way to keep everyone secure until they could leave school at finis. After all, how could the Slytherins possibly find her when she was busy hiding right in forepart of them ?

( BREAK )

Luna was stunned into taking a measure back, away from Ron. She'd never seen him so angry before. `` I don't know where Ginny is. '' She answered honestly.

'' You better not be lying to me. '' He said, stepping forward and forcing her to take another stride back.

'' I'm not ! '' She yelled, upset to be so scared of one of her friends… of individual she'd once loved. `` I don't know where she is, but Harry, Draco and lupin are with her. '' She admitted, hoping that would be enough to gentle him. But of course it wasn't.

'' So await, they lied about why they were staying out there ? '' He roared, shouting in her side. `` What the bloody snake pit is going on ? ! And how does my sister fit into it ? ``

'' St-stop yell-yelling ! '' Hermione shouted out of nowhere. Having been so involved in their argument, they'd forgotten she was still there, hunched over the flame with her helping hand spread out over it. `` W-w-whatever's hap-happened to G-Ginny isn't Luna's f-fault and th-the others are out th-there looking f-for her, s-so you sh-sh-should be grateful. If you w-want to b-bl-blame s-someone f-for something hap-happening to Ginny, th-then bl-blame m-me. I'm th-the one w-who ab-b-bandoned her in th-the bookstore. '' She stammered out as she shivered.

Ron was nearly shaking as he attempted to control his rage. `` And why did you do that ? '' He asked through clenched teeth.

'' T-to t-talk t-to Lee. '' Hermione looked directly at him. `` Fred s-sent him up h-here w-with s-some quest-t-tions ab-about th-the quickcures and I st-st-stepped outside t-to help f-figure it out. '' She lied smoothly, her anger helping tug her into remaining calm and believable. After all, now that Ron knew Ginny was missing, there was no rationality to alarm him to the fact that Fred was as well. He'd been exposed to enough truths today… one too many actually, if his rapidly reddening side and darkening eyes were any indication.

'' Don't talk to me, either of you. Not unless it's to let me get it on Jacey has given the all take in to go back to the settlement. And after, I don't want to spill to any of you at all. '' He said, turning his vertebral column on them to go sit alone on a tree stump a few yards away. Clearly he still cared enough not to forsake them, but the aura of his anger was suffocating.

Luna carefully sat beside Hermione in the expanse Jacey had cleared away of snow. `` Are you okay ? '' She asked the other fille who's dentition were still chattering as puffs of air passed through her blue lips.

'' J-just re-really c-c-cold. '' She answered. Lee figured out who the spy is. She thought, not wanting to drop energy talking.

And ? Luna prompted.

It's professor Erebos. He had an affair with Elise while she was here at schooltime though no one can bear witness it. Lee believes there's evidence that they've continued to continue in contact lens. Hermione quickly explained.

fountainhead, I could certainly see him more capable of killing someone than Simon. Luna answered. Nothing came to her saying they were wrongfulness and so she had no reason not to accept Lee's research as a plausibleness. But Simon the Zealot is working for them somehow… That she was certain of. Intuition had been poking at her since she'd agreed to dance with him at the Costume egg, now it was downright shoving her in it's insistency that there was something off about that boy.

After awhile, Jacey finally called out to silently tell Luna that it was as prophylactic to enter the small town as it was going to get. She helped Hermione to her feet and left it to her to tell Ron that it was sentence to go. Despite his stay fury, he silently stomped over to assist Hermione walk. Together they guided her between them, eager to finally get her out of the low temperature. Glancing behind her past the rampart, Luna hoped Harry was alright out in the Ellen Price Wood though she was more than positive that she would know instantly if he weren't.

( breaking )

Ginny tried not to appear directly at Draco as Lucius pressed his arm against her throat, not wanting him to see just how scare off she was. After all, she wasn't being hurt, Lucius seemed more interested in using her as a hostage or shield than hurting her. But seeing Dragon take out his amulet and throw it away, seeing the rage in his optic that had built up after years of dealing with his father… she had no estimate what was about to happen but she was horribly afraid that this wasn't going to end well.

'' I'm right here. '' Draco taunted his father, clearly trying to get him to take the decoy and release Ginny.

But Lucius was no half-wit, he'd been surviving for a retentive meter and knew that she was the sole matter keeping Dragon, Harry and lupine at bay. He wouldn't let go of what was currently keeping him safe and the others at his whim. `` Yes you are, wandering in the woods like an animal. '' He sneered at his son. `` I'd have thought ceramist would have put you out of your misery by now… Apparently he's no different that his foolish father and your mother's moronic cousin, keeping around a wild beast because they're too spineless to do the aright thing. ``

Ginny couldn't help the tiny shriek that escaped her as Lucius dragged her along to the position to duck away from the thick branch Harry had sent flying at him as he insulted James I, Sirius and Lupin. Looking up, she saw respective more branches still dancing in the air around Harry as he glared down Lucius, almost daring the man with his regard to say something else derogatory about the people he loved. `` Careful ! '' Draco shouted, upset that Ginny could birth been hit as well.

'' It was just a word of advice. '' Harry said with pretended equanimity. `` It didn't even get near them. ``

'' It is my understanding that you allowed Harland Myers to repose secretly in your sign for a decennium. '' lupine said stiffly, stepping slightly between the boys and Lucius to maintain anything else from happening. He appeared composure, only his heart indicated the loathing he had for the other man. `` Where was your acantha then ? Why would you hold let someone so life-threatening to you and your kin infiltrate your life ? ``

'' make no mistake, if I had a option in the matter, Myers would have never come near my sign of the zodiac. '' Lucius answered bitterly. `` As it is, he proved useful all these years later… except none of you did what you were supposed to ! I should have figured they'd let genus Draco live, after all, they kept you around all these years. Quite outlived all your friends, haven't you ? '' He taunted. Lupin remained silent but Ginny could see the fury written in every line of his human face. genus Draco and Harry were holding their breath as they stood alert, waiting… they were all waiting for their probability. Lucius went on, his own anger slowly leaving his control. `` Of course there always to a greater extent to still take away- your friend's son and his friends, your blushing bride… your new make-shift son. You think I don't know that you signed your gens to written document claiming tutelage of Draco ? ``

'' What do you care ? '' genus Draco snapped.

'' I care ! '' Lucius shouted violently, squeezing down his hold on Ginny without realizing it. She reached up to pull up at his arm and return her full current of oxygen, but his grip was tight and all she could do was scramble to go on breathing as the others closed rank further. `` Stay back ! '' Lucius warned them as he turned his verge on her. `` Two words and her life is over before any of you can stop me. '' He turned his attention back on Draco. `` Whatever happens, you are a character of me, my flesh and clappers, my genes. And now not only have you willingly allowed another family to be responsible for you, you've completed your betrayal by telling the Minister where to find me ! I may have tried to vote out you genus Draco, but I expected Sir Thomas More of you. You should induce come and found me yourself if you wanted revenge, but I see spending so practically sentence with these people has made you weak. ``

'' No, you were right. I am still your son and here we are confront to face… but you're the one who's still hiding behind someone else. Are you that scared of me now ? '' Dragon yet again taunted his founder, wanting him to release Ginny and come after his genuine target. She shivered, scared that he'll recede and even more scared about the more likely outcome- that he'll win. Either way, after today, she knew Draco was going to be different.

( BREAK )

Ron sat contrary Luna and Hermione in forepart of the fire in the ternion Broomsticks. Despite the revelry and aloud voices all around them, they three remained soundless each lost in their own thoughts. Again he wished he could take in been the one to register minds, that he could rip unfastened those girls foreland and learn all the secrets they were still keeping from him. He felt torn in a million unlike pieces and didn't know what to feel first, which resulted in a continuous shift of anger, sadness, guilt, obligation, green-eyed monster, betrayal, and confusion.

His thinker still couldn't fully comprehend what had happened to Parvati or what he'd seen her do to Troy. He'd never stopped blaming himself since she'd disappeared, and then finding out Jacey had been to pick as well… that she had known what was possibly unseasonable with Parvati and hadn't said anything… it had been overwhelming. Today had sufficiently blown his judgment. How could Jacey experience slept beside him each dark knowing that she was lying to him everyday ? And her reason for keeping him in the dark was the Saami cop Harry and Dumbledore had been feeding them for years- to celebrate him safe. But he didn't feel very protected.

Worse than his anger and confusion over Jacey, it felt there would never come in a metre when he'd find peace over Parvati's fate… how was he supposed to populate his life knowing he'd allowed hers to be destroyed. She'd seemed so hopeless out there in the Sir Henry Wood, so resigned to an eonian lifetime of loneliness. How could he forgive himself or Jacey for any of it ? Tristram and Troy, the two really responsible were beat and the entirely ones left to blame were the living who had allowed it to befall. Ron dropped his brain in his hands, unsure of everything except that he was tired of thinking.

'' Hey, have you guys seen Dean and Padma ? '' Seamus asked, walking up to their soundless trio and taking in their somber faces. `` Whoa, who died ? ``

'' I haven't seen them, but I think they're at Honeydukes. '' Luna answered softly, never raising her regard from the floor.

'' I'll go with you to attend for them. '' Ron offered, needing a moment away from the girls. After all, one had left his sister and let who knows what happen to her and the other was Luna, who he just couldn't make forefront or tails of anymore… he was torn, wondering if perhaps he was actually starting to detest her. After all she was the easiest to blame for everything going wrong, from her visions or deficiency of them to her unmoved ability to keep a secret to her swooping in on Harry and shaking up their whole group. It didn't matter if Hermione claimed that without Luna she and Harry would stimulate still broken up because he knew it wouldn't have happened. Fred nor anyone else could have turned her head if she wasn't sure Harry no longer wanted her and Ron didn't worry how much they protested to the reverse. And now because Hermione was busy chasing Fred's approval, she'd left Ginny to an uncertain fate… He turned to look at both girls, trying to hide some of what he was feeling about them. `` You two are planning on staying here in these exact spots, right ? ``

'' I'm certainly not going back outside until it's time to go back to schooltime. '' Hermione muttered, sinking further into her derriere to get her feet closer to the fire. She was examining her fingers, which were the same bright pinko as her face, nose and forehead. Ron found he was relieved to not to see any obvious augury of frostbite… hopefully she'd warm up and at worst, come up out of this with a bad cold.

Satisfied that they were secure in the push inn until the others came back, Ron left without another word to either of them. He walked past Jacey who was sitting as Tristan at a table by the door with sissy and Millicent. It was clear she'd hail there to help keep an eye on him, Luna and Hermione should anything go wrongly. He ignored her completely as he went out, finding it didn't much bother him that he had to pretend to dislike her ... after all, there wasn't much pretending at the moment. Lost in his own headspring, he followed Seamus down the road to the candy store.

The Snow had stopped and Ron looked around, hoping to catch sight of his sister as people once more began filling the streets. But of course she wasn't here safe in the village. She was out there in the woods in some form of untold danger and his friends had decided he didn't need to roll in the hay about it. He took a few deep breathing spell to try and tranquilize himself, not wanting to alert anyone to the fact that Harry and Ginny weren't where they were supposed to be unless he had to. As mad as he was, Ron trusted Harry to rent care of Ginny… and advertize semen to shove, he trusted Draco to as well. With Lupin completing the trio, he knew his sister's eudaemonia was in good hands- he just wished he knew what was going on.

'' There they are… '' Seamus said as they entered Honeydukes, pointing to a back rampart where doyen and Padma were standing and talking very close together. Ron let out an unvoluntary shiver as he recalled the last time he'd been in this store. They'd avoided it the hold out few clock time they'd come to Hogsmeade for a ground after all, none of them wanted to recall what had happened there net class or anything else about that struggle. Ron straightened himself up and prepared what he was going to say to convince Padma to leave the castle with him tonight without right out telling her about Parvati…

( happy chance )

Harry held his hint as Draco continued to rag his Padre but again Lucius refused to take the bait. All any of them needed was one chance, one mo where Ginny could give unloose but it was apparent he wasn't going to chip in it to them. For all his hard public lecture, it was clear Lucius was the one who was most scared as none of them were hiding behind anyone else… genus Draco had even thrown his wand away, though Harry wished he had held onto the amulet. After all they wanted to capture Lucius, not drink down him.

'' I'm not scared of you. '' Lucius sneered.

'' Prove it ! '' Dragon shouted. `` Stop hiding behind a girl and come try to end my life if that's what you want ! I'm not scared of you either ! ``

'' I suppose that's why you told them about the safe sign of the zodiac ? ! '' He yelled back. `` Imagine my surprise when the one I'm at is surrounded and I'm forced to fight my way out ! And then every bingle place I go to after is already swarming with Aurors. Your mother would never make bold, but you ! You're just spineless enough to send soul else to make clean up for you. So I came here to show you what it's like to be a man and face your demons… I came here looking for you genus Draco. Send your new friends away and I'll let the government minister's daughter go with them. ``

'' That's not going to happen. '' lupine said quickly. Neither he nor Harry was going to will Draco alone with Lucius. `` You have no motion to make here, think about it. You can't apparate without leaving a tincture and these woods are already swarming with Aurors looking for a missing student. It won't take a great deal for them to determine you wherever you go. No one is going to let you ache Ginny or try to hurt your son. And no one is going to let Draco hurt you either, that's something he shouldn't have to apportion with. ``

'' As if he could bruise me. '' Lucius spat out. `` I know my son better than you ever could. I find it risible that within a few calendar month you seem to think you can just waltz in and further parent the little snake. Keep one thing in mind, he may now be a vagabond dog like you, but you are not his family. I am. ``

'' And so is Nymphadora Tonks-Lupin. '' Draco shot back. `` For serious or high-risk, he married into this family… in fact, he's your nephew by marriage which makes him my cousin and a member of the only component of this crime syndicate I wish to belong to to. I don't even know you, and I don't care to any longer. ``

Harry watched a disconsolate vestige pass over Lucius's brass. He knew that despite whatever the man felt towards his son, he believed him to be his to deal with. `` You've disappointed me your whole life, I don't know why I expected today to be any different. face at how light you've let yourself grow… Tell me, if I ended all of their lives right now what would you do ? Would you violently avenge them or would you just sit down in the snow and cry ? '' It was clear he was upset to larn that there were the great unwashed Draco was willing to put before him. Even more, he was upset to con that there were people who actually cared about what happened to Dragon while he was left completely alone and on the run.

'' That's an impossibility and there's no pauperism to mull over the impossible. '' Harry said. His mind was growing tired with keeping the branches in the air and though he could feel Luna sending him her metier and energy, he knew something had to be done soon. Okay, we need this to end. He thought out to his friends.

I couldn't agree more. Draco's strangled reply reached him. He was clearly having worry holding himself in check mark and Harry could almost see the more primal and instinctual idea of the skirt chaser inside him as it prepared for it's chance.

'' I've lived long enough to experience that there is no such thing as the impossible. '' Lucius said aloud, ignorant of the fact they were all conversing around him.

'' So then the interrogation is, how much longer you'll be living. '' Draco returned.

When I give the signal, I'll cam stroke another offshoot. When he ducks, Ginny, I want you to kick, prick whatever you have to do to get him to loose his grip if not let go completely. Harry told her.

I have absolutely no problem with that. She replied though her consciousness seemed dimmer.

Draco instantly picked up on the distraint in her voice. So let's do this then !

delay ! I want to be sure we cover all the angles so no one gets hurt by accident. Harry insisted, trying to remain calm himself. lupin, as soon as he moves, disarm him. And Draco… just don't pop him, okay ?

We'll see what happens. He thought back darkly.

I'm set when you are. Lupin said, either unaware or dismissive of the violent feelings Draco was experiencing.

'' The same question could be posed to you. '' Lucius replied to Draco's spoken words. `` Whether I end you today or individual else comes for you tomorrow, you will not be around long. There are too many looking to destruct you my son. You've made far too many of the wrong kind of foe. Clearly you were better off when it was only Potter's hollow threats you had to deal with. ``

'' I'm still breathing. '' Dragon replied coolly as an explosion of revenge swirled within him. `` Clearly I'm not as bad off as you might think. ``

Now ! Harry shouted in his mind, whipping the handsome tree diagram branch directly at Lucius so he could see it coming. Like before the man tried to skirt out of the way, dragging Ginny with him. But this clip she was fix for it. As soon as Lupin shouted `` Expelliarmus ! '' she bit down on Lucius's arm. Moving with the grace of a social dancer, she swung her elbow back at the same time she kicked her leg, catching him in both the gut and kneecap and sending the man sprawling. Luckily she managed to twine out from under him and before he'd fully touched the ground, genus Draco was on him and wrapping his hands tightly around his father's throat.

'' No ! '' Harry raced forward with lupine, both desperately pulling at Draco's atomic number 26 grip. Nothing they were saying could extend to him, he was in his own world now. Glancing behind him, Harry saw Ginny furiously digging in the nose candy and knew she was trying to find oneself the amulet they'd all unwisely let Draco give away.

Pulling Lupin away, Harry wrapped genus Draco protectively in his judgement before pulling with everything he had, sending the boy flying through the air to land gently a few thou away. Then he quickly turned to attach Lucius in blank space. Lupin rushed over to Draco, pulling off his amulet and kneeling to place it over the boy's head before leaning down to quietly talk to him. Harry reached out to stop Ginny from going over. `` I don't caution how indisputable we both are that he won't hurt you, this is something Lupin needs to help him with. '' Harry said gently, wrapping his arms around her as they both watched their protagonist try to bring genus Draco back from the edge.

'' They should take in drank the Wolfsbane before coming out here. '' She shook her brain angrily. `` Sir Francis Drake should have had it ready. ``

'' Draco wasn't supposed to take on the talisman off, they didn't think they'd need it until tomorrow and we weren't exactly expecting Lucius. '' Harry answered. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' Yeah, my arm hurts a bit from being dragged around but I don't think he was very concerned in hurting me, it was clearly Draco he wanted. I just let him mean he was out here alone. '' She said with a pocket-size smile.

Something poked at Harry's intuition and he turned to see Lucius had rolled himself respective fundament to grab hold of genus Draco's discarded wand and free himself of the binding placed on him. `` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Harry shouted but Lucius shielded just in sentence, whipping his own spell back at Harry. He shielded, protecting both him and Ginny as she pulled her sceptre out and shot a sweetheart. Again Lucius shielded before pointing the sceptre at the tree next to them. Harry grabbed Ginny's script and pulled her out of the way, shoving her to the ground and throwing himself over her before casting a buckler as a exhibitor of Wood and snow rained down from the explosion.

lupin rushed forward with his own wand out sending magical spell so fast Lucius could only harbour himself. Draco came up and took his father's wand from lupin, joining in the casting as Harry and Ginny unburied themselves from the heavy debris. Harry caught the flicker of light from the corner of his eye and turned to see Lucius perpetrate out and throw off two small sticker with big speed and accuracy from behind his shield.

Harry couldn't follow both and was only able to intercept the one that had been flying straight at Draco's tenderness, using his thinker to agitate it off course where it buried its stallion length harmlessly in a tree. The second hit its target, embedding itself in Draco's leg. He fell to the side with a grunt of pain in the neck. Once again, Harry kept Ginny from rushing over, keeping her carefully behind him as he focused on Lucius who was obviously upset that he'd once more been stopped from killing his son. The man waved his baton with a fanfare while shouting an unfamiliar incantation.

'' Harry ! '' Ginny shrieked. He turned to see her fighting off the tree that had suddenly come to life and reached down to grab her. He tried to aid but by this time he was now fighting off the arm himself. Lucius had bewitched the tree to serve him, keeping Harry and Ginny busy while he quickly turned back to Draco.

'' seem out ! '' Harry shouted a warning to Lupin who was crouched over Draco trying to make certainly he was okay. Hearing him, they both looked up to see Lucius pointing his wand at them.

'' I will not appropriate you to ingest my son. He is mine to let unrecorded or die. '' Lucius sneered down at Lupin before waving his wand. `` Avada- ''

'' NO ! '' Draco roared, shoving lupine away and ripping the dagger from his own leg while ripping the talisman from his neck and hurling it far away. Fuelled by untamed human fury and calculating fleshly inherent aptitude, he leapt to his feet and lunged at his father, driving the blade trench into the man's belly.

Everything and everyone stopped moving including the bewitched trees. Harry saw Lucius's eyes grow encompassing with jar and something almost like pridefulness. Draco still had his hand on the handle of the dagger as he glared his father down. `` guess I'm adequate to after all. '' He said quietly.

Harry felt Ginny drop to the ground and once more look for the amulet and he let her, figuring it was best both wolfman had them back. Besides, it kept her fussy. He certainly wasn't going to try going near Draco at the moment and he wasn't going to let her either. lupine picked himself up off the ground and being the only one in the position to strain out to Draco he did. `` Come on. '' He said gently. `` Now we can choose him to Albus. ``

'' You'll direct me nowhere ! '' Lucius burbled out. `` Now my son and I will finish this ! '' Before anyone could stop him, he grabbed Draco's berm and they were gone in a flash as he apparated them both away.

'' Draco ! '' Ginny leapt to her understructure and ran to the empty spot where they'd just been standing.

'' That was stupid. '' lupin muttered. `` We have to find them before the Aurors do. And they'll be sure to be heading this way now that they'll have an energy trace to look into. ``

'' Why not let them witness Lucius and Draco ? '' Harry asked. `` They'll be able to subscribe Lucius into hold and we'll be done with it. ``

Lupin shook his head. `` No, they'll take genus Draco too. He has no control right now, there's no telling what he'll do if someone unfamiliar to him tried to come between them. They won't expression at him like we do, all they'll see is a mechanical man out of control… trust me, I've been arrested several clip for a lot less in my jr. long time. ``

'' Dumbledore wouldn't let that happen. '' Ginny said, more to see herself than them.

'' He won't have a pick. '' Harry answered grimly.

'' Exactly. And if they find Draco out of controller so close to both Hogsmeade and the school, they'll blame me and revoke mine and Tonks guardianship… I won't be capable to help oneself him and he'll be lost in the endless red tapeline of bureaucracy. ``

'' So, where did they go then ? '' Harry asked. `` I mean, Lucius was hurt, he couldn't have gone far. '' He sent out his mind and caught a lightheaded trace of Draco.

lupin sniffed the air and pointed south toward the village and the mountains. `` That way. I can faintly smell Lucius's blood line. ``

( BREAK )

And that's it, there's zero else you're leaving out ? Hermione asked.

After Ron had left with Seamus, Luna had taken it upon herself to silently narrate Hermione everything that had been happening. After all, if Ron now knew there was no reason she couldn't… especially if they were planning to build Tristan disappear as soon as potential. She could enjoin the other girl wasn't mad, that she knew she was hangdog of keeping secret just as large involving the unanimous thing with Fred and Elanya. But she was hurt that they hadn't trusted her and there was nothing Luna could do to make that better.

That's it. So now Jacey just has to take the incrimination as Tristan for Troy's disappearance and hopefully we can end this… until or unless individual connects it to us. She answered, absently staring at the students around them, jealous of their simpler lives.

Poor Parvati… no wonder Ron flavour so terrible. Hermione took another sip of her hot chocolate.

There are a lot of reasons for why he's so upset, she is one of them. She said glumly before turning things around and focusing on her friend. `` So, are you okay ? '' She asked aloud.

'' Finally starting to sense warm and I can wiggle all my digit and toes so I think I'm okay. '' She answered, staring off into the fire. `` I don't know what happened to me… it was like I couldn't make a decision so I just select to do nothing at all. ``

'' We all lose ourselves for a little while and we're all dealing with so much… even you had to break eventually. '' Luna reached out to rub Hermione's shoulder in comfort.

'' Do you think Ginny's okay ? '' She asked quietly, her guilt over leaving the early girl alone quite apparent.

'' I have no reason to retrieve otherwise- '' She cut herself off as the hollering started in her ears.

'' I guess you spoke too soon. '' Hermione said, having recognized the signs of a coming vision.

Her eyesight blurred, whatever it was, it was coming fast no matter how hard she tried to hold it off. I can't do this out here in front of everyone. She thought out desperately. Hermione took her arm and guided her through the building and down a long hall to the back toilet, settling her down on the small waiting sofa before locking the door.

Luna let herself go, giving into the vision… her firstly since she'd fried out her head. She was excited in a way, as this had to mean she hadn't broken herself. It was the white room, a penetrating, brighter version than ever before. Harry was beside her and instantly Sarah, Elise and Elanya were there, reaching out their coat of arms and beckoning them to follow over. She felt a pull, a desire to go and see what they had to extend. Herb Simon suddenly walked by, much closer than the others and grinning at her menacingly as he too reached out a hand to her and her alone. Harry disappeared from her position and she recoiled, once Thomas More aware of herself and the fact that she wanted nothing they had to offer. But that present moment of uncertainty, she knew that was a clew as a lot as anything she was being shown… This stallion warning was clearly for her alone and she had to pay closely care to everything.

Coming out of it, she felt woozy and extremely thirsty. `` Hold on, just postponement here and get your bearings. '' Hermione said, looking at her in concern. `` I'll go get you some juice or something equally sweet, I think your stock loot might induce dropped… you're awfully pale. ``

Luna lay back down and gratefully let her go, trying to pass off through the discomfort she was feeling. But Hermione had only been gone a few moments when a deep sense of foreboding washed over her. Forcing herself to her substructure and ignoring the dizziness, she suddenly felt the demand to be back in the main room with mickle of people. Opening the door she peeked her head word out and instantly felt soul else nearby. She rushed to close up the door, but someone collided against it and began trying to fight their way in. `` seminal fluid on Luna ! I just want to blab to you ! ``

She recognized Herbert A. Simon's vocalization and shoved harder against the room access to preserve him out. `` Go away ! '' She pleaded.

He managed to get his foot in the door, ensuring she wouldn't be able to lock him out. `` Just a dewy-eyed conversation, that's it, I promise. ``

Not knowing what else to do, Luna closed her eyes and apparated herself away to the first place she thought of- the orchard. It was clear right away that she'd made the wrong choice as her coat was still sitting on the couch by the nice warm fervour at the tercet Broomsticks… but she'd wanted to get as far from St. Simon as possible and this was where she'd wounding up. shivering, she wrapped her limb around herself and began to quickly make her way back to the inn. No one was supposed to be able to apparate around the Greenwich Village and luckily she'd figured out that the touch she and Harry left when they did so went unnoticed by the Aurors… But still, she couldn't just appear back at the inn, anyone could see her do it and she knew it was always full to hide your force as well as your impuissance. Quickly linking psyche with Hermione, she told the girl what had happened so that she wouldn't be caught unawares by Herb Simon. Jacey, prevent an eye on Hermione. I had to dodge out but I'm on my way back. She thought out, wanting as many people to cognize the situation as possible.

She had just reached the bookstore when two multitude jumped out in front of her. She leapt back, startled to discover Crabbe and Goyle, both looking half frozen as they'd clearly spent all of their time outside. `` Hey look, we finally found Lovegood ! '' Goyle nudged Crabbe.

'' Yeah, when we aren't supposed to be looking for her anymore. '' He grumbled. Luna remained mum, not wanting to delineate their attention as she reached in her back pocket for her wand… but it wasn't there. Either she'd left it with her coat or she'd dropped it in the bathroom while struggling to keep Marvin Neil Simon out.

'' Aren't we ? '' Goyle countered. `` Tristram said she's not the main antecedence, but she's still a objective isn't she ? ``

'' I don't know… I suppose. '' Crabbe scratched his head.

Letting them figure out whether or not they were supposed to arrest her, she slowly backed away before turning and full out running back toward the orchard. `` Hey ! Get her ! '' She heard one of them shout, not stopping to calculate back and see which one or whether they were gaining on her. Panic set in and with the muscle spasm in her incline, her frozen arm and her racing middle, she knew she wouldn't be able to outrun them no thing how lightly her tenuous stature let her fly across the C. She could pick up them barreling after her, it was only a matter of time before they caught her. Seeing the wall ahead, she closed her heart and thought herself on the early incline of it. Within moments she was back outside the Greenwich Village and running through the wood with no idea where she was or how far she'd sent herself.

Sudden suspicion flooded through her and she knew she was going the wrong way. Her substructure toppled out from under her as she tried to hold back them and she slid forward down hill through the trees. She raised her coat of arms to protect her face, wildly trying to grab onto a subdivision to slow her progress. They all broke in her hands and she let out a loud scream as she felt the soil fall out from beneath her as she slid right over a large drop. Turning she made a do-or-die grab and caught the end of a jagged tree diagram root sticking out from the face of the cliff. Staring down, she felt her tummy leapt into her throat as she perceived the flat coat a few hundred invertebrate foot below her. She screamed again, outloud and in her mind, hoping Harry or anyone else was near.

Taking a few trench, shivering breathing spell, she tried to cool off herself and apparate away but the panic wouldn't let her focus. Looking up, she saw the top of the cliff only about six invertebrate foot above her with a few early smaller roots poking through the frozen dirt. Fixing her grip, she swung her legs up, trying to see onto the branch she currently dangled from. After four attempts she managed it, scratching herself horribly as she righted herself. Not daring to stop now, she carefully stood and flexed her blunt fingers before reaching up for the future offset, ensuring she also found a sturdy foothold to help oneself hoist herself up. It seemed to take aim forever but at last she was eye-level with the flat coat and was surprised to see two large boots standing before her. Looking up, she felt the finale of her strength leave her as she took in Lucius Malfoy's vicious grin, his face marred with toothed scratches.

'' I know who you are. '' He said quietly, his grin widening even as he was slightly doubled over holding his haemorrhage stomach. `` Oh how funny circumstances can be… You're Lovegood's daughter aren't you ? You don't have to resolve, I know that you are. I already had his offices burned down for that article but I had no idea just how much a few words would ruin my life sentence. I think it's only sightly now that I completely ruin his… say with the exit of his former shaver. ``

'' Don't. '' Was all she could say, her concern and loathing of this man overwhelming her.

'' Why not ? I already killed your pal, and in a very similar style might I add. '' He laughed cruelly before lifting his infantry and bringing it down on her suspend finger's breadth. She screamed feeling her already tenuous clutches loosen even more.

( faulting )

As soon as they arrived wherever it was in the Mrs. Henry Wood that his father had brought him, Draco viciously pulled the sticker from Lucius's body. The man staggered back, a unhinged grinning across his boldness that couldn't mask the bother in his eyes. `` You think I haven't had worse. '' He spat out.

'' I think I'm about to turn over you worse. '' Draco threatened, throwing the obelisk away and crouching in preparation of the attack. Now they were both completely weaponless, both wounded by the other and both on equal reason. Except they weren't and he smiled as he thought of all the ways he knew he was going to best Lucius.

'' If you think you can. '' Lucius challenged, reaching in his air pocket and pulling out a third gear dagger… apparently they weren't both weaponless, well it didn't bother genus Draco as he was still certain he would fall out on top. `` I was saving this one just for you son. '' He lunged forward and swung, forcing Draco to alternate back.

Ducking low and ignoring the infliction in his leg, he tackled Lucius at the genu, bringing them both down into the nose candy. He shouted in suffering as he felt the sticker pierce his articulatio humeri brand, his father had stabbed him as they fell. Slashing out, his fingernails violently ripped across Lucius's look, tearing his shape. Stumbling to his feet, genus Draco reached behind him and pulled out the dagger. The human in him wanted to jam it down Lucius's throat… the Friedrich August Wolf in him had no idea what the artillery was for and wanted to throw it away simply so it wouldn't be used on him again. He tossed it aside… there were no amulets here, no potions to control him. The human beings grew dimmer and he let it, already feeling the catamenia of line of descent from his wounding slow up as he began healing himself.

He could smell the fear from the man as he climbed to his feet, vaguely he had a sense that this man was kin to him… but Draco also knew that the man had been cast out, banned from the ingroup and was therefore an enemy. A low monition growl escaped him as the man faced him down. `` That's it genus Draco, act like the animal you now are. '' He smiled.

The news meant nothing. He could barely interpret their import any longer, all he knew was that he had to end this terror to his multitude. There was rake in the air, and it wasn't all his own. Baring his teeth, he crouched low and enjoyed the wide look of panic in the man's eyes. genus Draco was about to hit when a sudden scream tore through the air.

He perked up instantly, recognizing the voice as one belonging to him, someone he cared for. It was a hard fight, but genus Draco managed to bring a lowly bit of himself back and was almost startled to see his father before him. A moment ago, he'd been unrecognizable as anything other than prey. `` Well, let's go see what that's about, shall we ? '' Lucius said, becoming more confident as he realized his son was distracted.

He rushed forward but he was too late. Lucius had apparated away. Another shriek tore through the silence, forcing Draco to move. He ran faster than he ever had before, hoping whichever of the missy were in trouble he got there in time to help. As he went he forced his psyche to get restraint over itself but that was impossible. Without the amulet, it was just too close to the full Sun Myung Moon to rick off the wolf completely. So putting it to his advantage, he used his senses to guide him, at close catching Luna's odor. Carefully making his way down the steep slope she'd clearly slide down, he arrived in clock time to see Lucius hovering over her as she struggled to hang on to the side of the cliff. `` Don't. '' genus Draco heard her plead.

'' Why not ? I already killed your pal, and in a very alike fashion might I add. '' Lucius laughed, throwing his previous evil against her family in her face as he lifted his foot and stomped down on her fingers.

'' No ! '' He ran forward. Turning and seeing him coming, Lucius dove out of the way… but it wasn't him Draco was after. Lunging down to the primer, he reached over the side of the cliff and caught Luna just as she lost her grip completely. Her hand was icy frigidness, her fingers too loaded to properly hold onto him. Feeling himself set about to slide over as well, he quickly kicked out and hooked his foot on one of the trees before reaching down to firmly catch her wrist.

'' Well, well. What a compromising situation. '' Lucius sneered as he walked over to leer down at them. `` Looks like now I get two for the price of one. Revenge on Xeno and the final end of my treacherous son. '' He laughed and cruelly lashed out, kicking Draco in the position and knocking the breath out of him. Luna screamed again as his bobby pin on her slipped and he struggled to maintain his appreciation. `` As much as I would make love to take out this out, unfortunately I don't have all day. Your new defender was right, I can let the Aurors trace me… especially not before I pay a visit to the Tonks and Lupin households and personally hold them my thanks for their participation in turning my son so thoroughly against me. ``

Draco looked down into Luna's terrified brass. He tried to apparate them away from this, but he couldn't find that piece of his humanity that knew how. The wolf was too awake and at the same metre he had too much of himself in him to do anything utile. His instinct was to discharge up one manus and lash out at Lucius to hopefully strike hard him over, but he also knew he couldn't hold onto Luna with one hand… he couldn't justify her decease for his beginner's. Lucius kicked him again and he felt his understructure begin to drop off. If something didn't happen soon, he and Luna were both going over… but if that happened, he sure as hell was going to bring Lucius down with them.

( respite )

'' How a good deal further ? '' Ginny asked anxiously as Harry suddenly stopped.

So many matter didn't feel right to him at the moment, he was inexplicably panicked, daunt and very cold. `` I think I sense them over this way. '' He answered distractedly, letting Lupin accept over the hunt club now that they were closer. Before they'd left in search of Draco, they'd been trusted to go back both amulets… he hoped they were in time for them to prove useful.

HARRY ! Luna's vocalisation tore through his mind at the same metre her riot echoed through the trees. He was moving in an instant, at in conclusion realizing everything he'd been feeling was because of her. He heard lupin and Ginny calling out as they chased after him, but he ignored them. His heart was in his throat as he heard her scream again and then again. He was an retard not to ingest paid attention to what he'd been feeling simply because he'd thought her to be safely back in the village… he should make love by now that none of them were dependable, ever.

He let his instinct scout him as her scream once more resound around him, seeming to occur from all directions… and then he heard Draco too, shouting in painfulness. Coming to a steep slope, Harry made his way down as quickly and carefully as possible. It was solve a few masses had come this way and he knew he was in the right place.

Through the Tree, he was capable to see the sharpness of the drop before him. Lucius was standing there, staring down with a demented grin as he yet again kicked Draco in the side as he dangled headfirst over the edge. Hearing Luna scream again, Harry nearly had a heart attack as he realized why genus Draco wasn't retaliating… Luna was dangling from his hands. `` Lucius ! '' Harry called out, slipping and sliding the sleep of the way down while attempting to wave his wand.

'' Too late ceramicist ! '' He yelled. This clock time he kicked his son's leg, loosening his hold on the tree and sending him and Luna over the side. Draco whipped around to seize his founding father's ankle joint, pulling the man over with them.





NOTE : Wow… succeeding chapter, the resolution of the Hogsmeade visit and the search for Fred, flavour for it soon !


Chapter 52 : header With Disappointment

A/N : Read, Review and Enjoy !



Harry rushed to the edge of the drop, nearly going over the side himself in his scare. He'd sent his judgement out in an try to catch Luna and genus Draco as soon as he saw they were going over… the senior Malfoy was an after thought. Peering down, he sighed in relief to see that he'd caught them all, though as he felt the drain on his Department of Energy, he was More than willing to let Lucius go to deliver the other two. But using everything he had left in him and tapping into a bit of Luna's Energy, he was able to blow them all up and back on solid ground, his baton instantly out and pointed at Lucius. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted with his care over Luna and Draco until the threat to them all was fully neutralized. `` It's over now. '' He said with authority.

'' It's never over Potter. Let the Aurors trace me, I will live to fight again ! '' He shouted. Dragon lunged at the same sentence Harry cast in an attempt to go along the man there, but they were both too late. Lucius had apparated away.

'' Harry ! '' He heard lupine and Ginny calling after him.

'' Over here ! '' He yelled back before turning to his two friends still on the ground. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' I've been better. '' Draco muttered, obviously upset that his father had escaped.

Luna simply nodded though she was huddled into herself, with no coat and her cheek, blazon and custody covered with small bread. Unzipping his pelage, Harry helped her to her ft and pulled her into his body, wrapping the jacket around her low, throb phase. He could find the frigidness of her skin through his clothes and hoped his own body warmth and coat would facilitate thaw her out. He held her tightly, trying to make himself really believe she was alive so that his heart would stop racing so painfully. `` What the hell happened ? What are you doing out here ? '' He asked quietly as Lupin and Ginny crashed their way through the trees and downhill to them. She shook her pass and merely pulled herself closer against him.

Ginny ran up to Draco, kneeling and throwing her weapons system around him as her succor at finding him active overwhelmed her. He held her back, his centre at stopping point softening as he reached to postulate the amulet lupine quickly held out to him. Pulling away to err it over his neck gave Ginny the chance to guide stock of him and finding her bridge player bloody she immediately inspected his shoulder. `` He stabbed you again ? '' She asked, her vox heavy with concern.

'' It was nothing, I barely feel it anymore. '' He answered glumly, rising to his fundament and wrapping his good arm around her.

'' Where's Lucius ? '' Lupin demanded as he looked them all over for serious injury.

Harry and Draco both shrugged, each feeling different waves of anger and disappointment. `` He disappeared, we tried to stop him but… '' Harry trailed off uncomfortably. They had been too distracted to concentrate on the enemy as they should have and as much as he hated that Lucius got away, he was also grateful that genus Draco had enough control over himself to put Luna's guard above his deep desire for payback against his father.

Lupin shook his caput. `` It's okay. I'd rather it end this way with you both breathing. '' He told both male child before looking at Luna who was still huddled inside Harry's pelage with him. `` And what are you doing back out here ? ``

They all turned to Luna, concerned to love what Harry had been desperate to get out since he'd first heard her scream. `` I had a vision. '' She said quietly before letting it all come out in a jumble of words, her relief pushing her into replete revealing. `` Hermione, she brought me somewhere so no one else would see and when I came out of it I wasn't feeling well so she went to get me something… Almost as soon as she left I got a bad feeling and so I made myself get up and start back to the dining area but Herbert A. Simon was waiting in the hall. The vision had involved him so I panicked and tried to lock him out. But he kept forcing his way in and I knew I wasn't going to be strong enough to hold the room access so I just apparated away and wound up in the orchard… probably because it was the stopping point blank space I'd been. I didn't have my coat so I thought out what happened to Hermione and Jacey and headed back to the inn. But Crabbe and Goyle were there and I didn't have my wand so I ran and they were catching up so I saw the wall and apparated past it to get away from them. And then I was just running, I didn't know where I was and then I just knew I was going the improper way but I tripped and fell down the J. J. Hill anyway and wound up going all the way over and luckily was able to snaffle that root down there. I couldn't apparate anymore so I climbed up and Lucius was waiting at the top… he recognized who I was and he was so mad about the quibbler article… '' Here she broke down, letting weeping slide freely down her facial expression. `` …he admitted it… He admitted he killed Kane. '' She buried her head in Harry's shoulder and allowed herself to cry. He held her tightly, not knowing what to say or do to stool anything better.

'' He admitted it because he planned on killing her too. '' genus Draco angrily told Harry. `` He threw it in her fount that he killed her brother and then stomped on her fingers as she hung there. Then I'm trying to draw her backbone up and all he can do is kick back me until I can't hold on anymore… You should get let him fall. '' He added in an almost accusatory manner. Knowing Draco had been the one to ensure Lucius went over with them, Harry excused his shade, unable to imagine what the other boy was feeling and unwilling to invade his caput to find out. Besides, after hearing what he and Luna had to say, Harry also believed he should let let Lucius plump to his death.

'' That wouldn't have solved anything and as much as you might like to opine it would, it wouldn't make any of you feel any better. '' Lupin said seriously.

'' We won't know until it happens. '' Draco shot back. `` I'm willing to take the chance to see and I bet it would earn me feel a lot better to fuck that I nor anyone else ever has to deal with him ever again. ``

'' And that's something we can hash out later. '' Lupin answered quietly. `` Right now we have to get out of here before the Aurors semen and try to blame all the disturbances in the woods on us. ``

( BREAK )

It was a miserably silent ride back to the palace and an insufferable time spent in the Headmaster's office. lupine had insisted they go to inform Dumbledore of Lucius's appearance in the Greenwich Village today if nothing else and so rather than closing himself into his room as he wanted, genus Draco put up with a million questions while Sir Francis Drake poked and prodded at his shoulder joint and leg. As soon as was potential, he escaped and hurried off back to the dorms. He didn't want to be around anyone at the bit, he wanted to feel what he felt and not have to produce excuses or explanations for it.

Locking the door to his room, he stripped off the now undone clothes he'd been wearing and threw them in the corner before putting on the for the first time things in his draftsman. Collapsing back on his bed, he thought about his life, his decisiveness, his newly found family and his founder. Lucius was the connecting factor ruining everything else and Draco wished more than anything that Potter had just let him lessen. He'd come so close to getting rid of his don by pulling him over the boundary with him and Luna… It wasn't fair that thrower's signified of decency got in the way, after all, it would cause been the perfect fourth dimension to wipe out the man as no one would have had to feel guilty after everything his male parent had done that day. As grateful as he was to hold his own life and Luna's saved, he couldn't helper but blame potter for whatever Lucius was going to do next.

'' genus Draco ! '' He heard Ginny birdcall softly through the room access. He sighed and thought about pretending he wasn't there. Even her company was more than he could handle correctly now… They hadn't spoken since she and lupin found them by the cliff and while he'd remained protectively at her side until returning to the castle, he just wasn't ready to face up her and the noesis that he was the reason she'd been in danger today.

But of course of action it wasn't in him to disregard her, she certainly hadn't done anything amiss and he didn't want her to conceive he was mad at her. `` Hey. '' He said as he opened the door and walked back to slump down on his bed.

'' Hey. '' She returned gently, closing the door and coming to sit beside him. `` So Drake cleared you, huh ? '' She asked, clearly trying to trip the light fantastic toe around the subject she really wanted to take up.

'' He didn't have to do much. I'd already healed myself over mostly… it's soft to do that the closer it is to the moon. '' He explained what he didn't really understand.

'' wellspring thank pigeon hawk because seeing your profligate on my hands… '' She shuddered as she held her hands in presence of her and stared at them in remembrance.

'' Don't think about it. '' He said quietly, reaching out take her hands in his.

'' Are you okay ? '' Ginny asked in business concern, no longer capable to accommodate herself back. `` I mean I know that's the stupidest question in the human race right now, but… '' She trailed off, not needing to say anything else.

'' You know, I think I'm so far from okay that I couldn't even tell you what that intelligence means. '' He laughed bitterly. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and got a cargo hold of himself and his misery, remembering who was with him and how thankful he was that she was able to be there. `` I'm just glad you're OK. '' He turned to her and softened his tone. `` cipher else topic right now and I really don't want to talk about it… Drake did clear you, didn't he ? ``

'' Yes he did. I'm perfectly fine, not even a pelf. '' She smiled tensely, as if she were trying to obscure something. `` Of course, I'm not the one who was stabbed twice today… though I guess by this point it's something you're getting used to. '' She added, her smiling turning genuine as she teased him.

'' Yeah, thanks for your assistant in getting me machinate by getting in the first strike. '' He teased back.

She reached out and caressed his cheek before grabbing his mentum to rip his face down and lightly trace his lips with hers. `` I was so worried about you out there. '' She whispered.

'' right back at you. '' He returned, silencing her answer by kissing her again. He didn't want to spill the beans about Lucius or what today had meant. He just wanted to be thankful that his father hadn't taken away the one affair that currently meant more than his own life… he wanted to love her and be thankful for the privilege. There was always tomorrow to share with his inner ogre, new and old.

They both jumped as a sudden knock on the doorway interrupted them. `` Hey ! Is Ginny in there or what ? '' They heard Ron yell out.

Before Draco could impress, Ginny leapt of the bed and strode over to answer the door herself. `` What ? '' She demanded of her brother.

'' What do you intend ‘ what'? '' Ron returned, walking himself into the elbow room uninvited. `` It's not till we're all up in Dumbledore's office that I find out you were taken hostage by this cringe's father ? ! Are you okay ? ``

'' I was a lot better off before you came in here with that attitude you've been sporting all day. '' She shot back, clearly upset that he was doing this here in front of Draco.

'' And I'm for sure I was a lot better off before you wiped my store ! '' He shouted accusatorily. `` That's rightfield, they had to recite me everything out in the woods today. I know you helped them keep the plan about Tristan a secret ! ``

'' So what ? '' She yelled back. `` You know now so get over it ! ``

'' I'm sure that's exactly what you would do if the situations were reversed. '' Ron said darkly.

'' Maybe, maybe not. But getting mad and yelling at everyone isn't going to clear anything. Everyone wants to walk on eggshells around you but I'm not going to do it anymore ! Didn't you tell me that once ? Why is okay for you to act out your pain but when I do it I must be losing my mind ? ! '' She yelled.

'' Because nothing I've done is stupidly serious, unlike the things you still bear on to do. '' Ron returned.

'' Look, it's been a long and hard day for all of us, you aren't alone in feeling injury and angry. You want me to say I'm sorry for wiping away your memory, well I won't. It was what needed to find at that minute. Let's face it, you weren't handling the word well to begin with and this is a very delicate plot they've got going here. You running around yelling at us about it at the top of your lungs isn't very helpful ! '' Ginny tried to shove him back out towards the door but Ron remained immobile. Draco shifted uncomfortably, suddenly overcome with gladness that he was an only child. This sibling squabbling was something he never wanted to have to experience let alone be find to. He wished Ron would just leave already.

'' You really expect me to feel bad for being upset that everyone was lying to me ? '' He asked incredulously.

'' I expect you to aim your pass out of your ass every once in awhile to see what's going on with other people ! '' She shouted. `` I had to learn that the world doesn't revolve around me, it's time you do the same big Brother ! Didn't you hear the chronicle up there in the office ? Lucius tried using the killing curse on Lupin while Draco and Luna nearly died ! ``

'' Oh I see, so I'm supposed to sense bad that his father is a psychopath ! '' Ron yelled, pointing at genus Draco. `` It's not my break his forefather decided to drag everyone else into their fight ! It's not my fault you continued your cast relationship with him and therefore made yourself a target ! And it's not my fault Luna's dad put that story in the composition in the first place, remember ? That was Harry's brilliant idea and if Luna almost died because of it then he's the one to fault ! You all knew the risk of exposing Lucius and you took it on ! Besides, it's Luna's fault she was even back out there today anyway ! ``

'' Get out. '' Ginny demanded darkly.

'' Excuse me ? ``

'' I said get out ! '' She repeated. `` You're talking about us all like we mean null to you, like we're your foe. Whatever's untimely with you, I don't want to babble to you again until you've straightened out your head. ``

'' Maybe I'm just thinking clearly for the first time. '' He said in a low voice, puffing himself up and using his height to tower over her. `` Harry, Hermione and I all became friends because we had no one else. That's not really true anymore is it, so maybe now I'm just starting to see everyone clearly for the first time. ``

Ginny didn't back down, she rarely did so with anyone, let alone her own brother. `` Yeah ? Does that include me and Fred ? How about banker's bill and Charlie ? If you want to detest everybody right now then fine, do whatever you have to do. Just go away ! '' She once more reached out to shove him at the door.

'' I'll go when I'm good and make ! '' Ron yelled. Dragon could see he was quickly losing his control and rose to his metrical foot just in case this got too out of hand.

'' I said get out ! I don't want you in here ! '' She pushed him again, also losing herself in her anger.

'' And I said no ! '' He finally snapped, shoving her book binding without knowing his own strength.

She stumbled, losing her footing in her surprise and genus Draco quickly reached out to catch her, steadying her on her feet before turning to Ron. `` She told you to entrust. '' He said with false calm. `` I suggest you do so before I'm forced to take in you. ``

'' check out of this Malfoy. This is between me and my sister and unlike your kinfolk, we know how to keep on our conflict to ourselves. '' Ron shot back.

He clutched his amulet, remembering his hope to Ginny from months before that he wouldn't fight with Ron again if he could help it. The other boy was making it very difficult to keep that hope at the moment. `` Except this is my room and if you're going to experience your piddling family dispute here then I get to say how far it goes and I've certainly had enough of it. ``

'' You two deserve each other. '' Ron muttered, glaring at them both before stalking out, slamming the door behind him.

Taking a mystifying breath to calm himself he turned to see how Ginny was dealing with this latest ontogeny of familial lunacy. `` I'm sorry. '' She said quietly as angry tears brimmed her eyes.

'' Don't be. By now I'm used to him having a conniption of some variety when things go incorrectly. '' He assured her, reaching out to pull her in for a hug.

'' He really should have learned some wagerer coping skills by now… '' She said, resting her head against his shoulder. `` Maybe it's time dad forced him to go see Laurel. Either way I don't want to talk about it anymore than you want to talk about today. ``

'' okey then. '' He agreed fully. `` Let's just go to sleep and rouse up tomorrow pretending naught ever happened. ``

'' You really think we'll be able-bodied to pull that off ? '' She looked up at him doubtfully.

'' No, but it might get to it easier to detect comfort later if we fool ourselves now. ``

She smiled and leaned up to kiss his cheek, his chin, his back talk. `` Just being able to lay side by side to you is all the consolation I need. '' Taking his hand she led him back to the bed, pulling back the flat solid to climb in and gesturing for him to join her. He quickly got in, wrapping the mantle around them as they lay face to face.

'' I love you Ginny. '' He whispered, kissing the tip of her nose.

She smiled and brushed the hairsbreadth back from his eyes. `` Well then you're golden because I love you too. ``

He caressed her face before leaning in to gently capture her lips. Running his hand down her berm, he felt her wince though he had a sense she was trying to hide it. He pulled back and looked at her in business organization. `` What's ill-timed ? ``

She shook her straits and smiled uncomfortably. `` zilch. '' She assured him, reaching out to wrap up her blazonry around him and pressing herself against him as a distraction. Dragon caught her arm and sat up. She tried to rip away but he maintained a placate but steadfastly hold as he carefully rolled up her arm, ignoring her protests. respective dark finger-shaped bruise lined her arm from her cubital joint up to her shoulder joint. `` Sir Francis Drake already put something on that, he said it'll all be gone by tomorrow. '' She said, trying to voice perfunctory but betraying her jitteriness. It was obvious she hadn't wanted him to have it away that not only had his Father-God nearly killed him and Luna, he'd left evidence of his rigourousness with her. But there they were, the sign that showed him that Lucius had been none to gentle while pulling Ginny along as his intended surety. `` It's certainly not as bad as being stabbed. '' She added, as he remained angrily silent.

Draco took a mystifying intimation and nodded. `` Okay. '' He climbed out of bed and turned back to her, leaning down to kiss her deeply and passionately. Then he grabbed his skid, sitting down in the desk electric chair to put them on before rising to grab his coat.

'' Where are you going ? '' She asked anxiously, crawling to the edge of the bed and kneeling as she looked at him, her eye wide and full of concern. `` You aren't mad at me for not telling you… are you ? ``

His heart pushed against his anger as she stared at him like that. Going back over, he wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her again. `` No, I'm not mad at you at all. '' He told her in a choke vocalization as emotion overwhelmed him. He wasn't mad at her, but how could he possibly excuse that her presence was making him want to squall in fury ? That being around her at that consequence made him want to rupture everything apart ? That he couldn't handle the feelings of fear and concern that came with loving individual as much as he loved her ? That all he wanted was to go back in clock time and witness a way to force Potter to let Lucius accrue ? He couldn't explain any of it, to her or himself.

'' I'm going to notice lupin. I think I need to go for a run in the woods. '' He said at finally, turning and walking out before she could protest. He had no intentions of finding the professor as lupine was a whole former person he couldn't be around at the here and now. After all, what could he say to the man who had acted more like a father to him out there than Lucius ever had in his entire life ? But he'd lied and told Ginny that to keep her from worrying. He really did need a run through the woods to assoil his head… but he needed to do it alone and though he didn't intend for any trouble, Merlin help the man or wildcat that chose to get in his way out there.

( fault )

Hermione had only enough patience to suffer drake and Madame Pomfrey suss out her over for hypothermia before rushing back to her elbow room. She'd told them her lonesome ailment was a flimsy headache but she had lied and she had a tactile sensation they knew it. They were therapist after all. They'd given her various herbal supplements to fill but she ignored it all, putting them on her desk and grabbing the invisibility cloak she still had in her possession. She felt like she was burning alive with fever, but she did her best to put that at the back of her mind as she threw the cloak around herself and hurried back out into the hallway and toward the records room. She felt there was no time to waste, she'd already let herself become deluge once today by the distraction of Fred's disappearance… she couldn't let it happen again. Thankfully Ginny was okay, but adjacent time her mistake could make fatal consequences and that cerebration was enough to drive her forward into solving the puzzle. This time she disregarded the student Indian file and went to the door leading to the faculty phonograph record, knowing they detailed the lives of every professor who had ever taught in Hogwarts. She found Erebos's information in no time and tucking the file carefully under her arm she snuck back out, ensuring she locked the door behind her.

Hearing articulation, Hermione flattened herself against the wall and tried not to so much as breath as the two seventh year Hufflepuff prefects came down the hallway, talking quietly to themselves as they made their finale cycle of the castle for the night. As soon as she was sure they'd passed, she allowed herself to breathe, gulping in air to her burning at the stake lungs while trying not to cough. Once in control she practically ran back to her room, slamming and locking the door behind her. Her throat was sore, her head was pounding and she was sweating from how hot she felt, but she ignored it all, immediately going to her bed and opening the file.

She knew what she was looking for and flipped right over to his medical checkup disk, cognizant that any time a professor left the land they had to be examined by a healer upon their return to Hogwarts. And there it was, in Madame Pomfrey's barely legible scribble. Did patient leave the area ? Yes. spot the patient visited ? Sydney, Australia. Reason for trip out of the res publica ? Family funeral. Has patient displayed symptoms of any disease contracted in travel ? No.

A family funeral, the same reason Lee said Elise had given. Either one or both of them had lied… that left many choice. The number 1 was that there had been a funeral and they both attended the Sami one, which had it's own long list of entailment. The bit was that one of them had gone to the funeral and the other had lied simply so they could both be in the same spot at the same clock time. The third base of course was that there was no funeral at all and they'd both used that as their intellect to go to Sydney, which begged the question- Why Sydney Australia ?

But what did any of this mean ? Nothing with these girls was simple, so had they uncovered their spy or just another one of their many plots ? Feeling dizzy and nauseous, Hermione forced herself to put aside the newspaper and lay down. Tomorrow she'd try again, but her eubstance was making it clear to her now that she needed to rest. After all, she wouldn't be any helper to Fred if she pushed herself while sick and put herself out on her end bed.

( BREAK )

Luna had been dismissed back to her room as soon as she was done giving her variation of outcome regarding Lucius. It was the second meter she'd had to tell it and Harry had to take heed it and it wasn't any leisurely for either of them to realize yet again how finish she'd cum to being another of Lucius's victim. The fact that Dragon had without falter backed up her claim that his father had admitted to murdering Kane meant a lot to her as she knew he was struggling deeply with what had occurred out in the woods that day. Dumbledore had agreed to instantly relay the information to President Arthur and assured them all that this would also go a long way in helping to sack up Willem's name. After telling drake that she was amercement and that her own herbal redress would crystallise up the small-scale scratches she'd received, she returned to her room feeling an odd sensation of embossment. One mystery that had been plaguing her for years was finally being set right, Kane's death would be cleared up and her category could find a bit of closure.

Quickly changing apparel and applying a acid of the herbal emollient, Luna was left feeling alone and anxious. For more than an minute she paced her room, trying to expend her neural energy as she waited. She wasn't quite sure what she was waiting for until at last she heard the insistent knocking on her threshold. She knew it was Harry, he'd been held up in Dumbledore's office much to both their defeat. They hadn't had a second alone together since he'd saved their lifetime and she rushed to let him in now.

As soon as she answered he reached out to grab her face, desperately pressing his lips to hers as he kicked the door closed behind him. Their hands quickly explored each former, checking for life-threatening injury as they continued to snog with uncontrolled heat. Luna felt grounded, rooted to the earth in a way that made her flavour that she belonged, that she finally had someplace she could be safe in every good sense of the word. Once more cupping her typeface, he pulled away to really get a safe look at her. `` I'm sorry I didn't get there sooner. '' Harry said breathlessly as his thumb traced the scratch on her cheek.

'' I'm sorry I panicked and put myself there in the low place. '' She smiled, repressing the shudder that wanted to run through her as she recalled what it had been like dangling precariously from Draco's manpower as her own remained frosty and useless. She flexed her digit now and found they were delicately, except the few that were bruised and hurting from where Lucius had stomped down on them. Sensing her discomfort, he took her hand and studied it while carefully hiding his emotions with a space typeface. But there was no hiding from her. `` Letting him hang wouldn't have changed the things he'd already done. '' She quietly responded to his shadow thoughts.

'' But it would have got stopped all the things he's now out there give up to do. '' He said with a sigh, lightly kissing her fingerbreadth before going to sit on the edge of the bed. He hung his mind and stared at the base. `` It should bear been easier… ''

'' Why, because you killed Tristram ? It's a just affair that you aren't becoming more comfortable with taking lives. '' She insisted, sitting next to him and reaching out to rub his leg in reassurance.

'' And if he decides to follow after you or Draco again ? Then what ? It'll be my fault, I could sustain ended it… And Draco thinks so to. '' He lay his head word down in her lap and looked up at her, imploring her to make sense of it for him.

'' You can't trust anything Draco is thinking right now. '' She answered, running her fingers through his pilus. `` We're all let down matter couldn't be resolved with Lucius but I'm very happy that neither of you succeeded in killing the man. The Aurors are tracking him, that'll have to be enough… until or unless Lucius comes around again we have to pore on finishing this thing with Tristan and more importantly, finding Fred. ``

He sighed and nodded. `` You're right… I know you are. We have to find oneself him before President Arthur and molly become even more mistrustful than I'm sure they already are of this line of work trip apology Lee dreamed up. I couldn't outdoor stage to see their faces if they found out one of their surviving children was in so practically danger… ''

'' Yeah, and if we think Ron's mad now, just think if he finds out we kept this from him as well. ``

'' Don't trouble about Ron. '' Harry said, toying with the oddment of her hair as he ran the strands through his digit. `` He'll calm down once we can all depart acting like ourselves again… Jacey will make for him around. ``

'' Maybe. '' She wasn't so sure. He seemed just as mad at Jacey as he was at the residuum of them. But she didn't want to think about Ron or anything else. Without another Bible to each early, she and Harry climbed under the binding, content in the assurance of each former's safety. Tomorrow would be there soon enough and they could worry about everything left hanging in the Libra then. Tonight they simply held each early, regenerating their energy as they linked themselves together through their thinker, not wanting to be separated even by sopor. It was a more intimate act than any former Luna had ever experienced as they opened themselves up to each other and vulnerably bared everything that had ever passed through their principal, hoping to not only know each other completely, but to be able-bodied to woolgather together as well. She smiled as she drifted off, knowing it would only be a affair of present moment before she saw him again.

( BREAK )

'' OK, we're out here. Now what's this surprisal you just had to picture me in the centre of the Night ? '' Padma asked grumpily as she and Ron stood out in the Forbidden forest a petty ways past Hagrid's hut.

'' Relax. It'll be any hour now. '' He replied, wondering if maybe Parvati had lost her nerve. He shifted from foot to foot, hoping she'd come along soon… though this format meeting was the only if thing keeping his judgment off the rather acute fight he'd gotten into with Ginny.

'' Okay, you have exactly two minutes and then I'm going back in because I'm freezing. '' She insisted, wrapping her arms around herself while retreating further into her hood. `` I don't know why you brought me out here only to stand around waiting. What are we waiting for anyway ? ``

'' For me. '' Parvati said quietly as she emerged from the Tree. She must have stolen some apparel in Hogsmeade because she was now dressed in trouser and a easy tee shirt. `` I'm sorry, I just wasn't sure if I could go through with this. '' She said, her eyes tearing up.

Padma's sass was hanging opened in shock. And then without a give-and-take she flung herself forward, wrapping her arms around her sister who stood with her own blazon stiffly at her sides as she stared in threat at Ron. `` No ! Don't get too conclude ! '' Parvati cried, disentangling herself from her twin and taking several steps back. `` You don't understand. ``

'' You're damn right hand I don't. Where have you been ? Mum and Dad are up at the castle, they've come to stick until you're found… they'll be thrilled to see you ! Come on, let's get you inside, you're skin is like ice. Where's your coat ? '' Padma let out in one breath, once more moving toward her sister who only moved further away.

'' You didn't warn her ? '' Parvati asked Ron incredulously.

'' I didn't want to enjoin her anything about it. It would all be dear coming from you. '' He insisted. He wanted to leave but be intimate he had to stay, that he couldn't jeopardy leaving Padma alone with Parvati while she was still so out of control of herself.

'' I can't come back to the schoolhouse with you. '' She sadly told her twin. `` And you can't tell apart our parents that you saw me… I just wanted the prospect to separate you… ''

Ron walked off to let them have a bit of privacy. He was sure to keep his wand out and both girls in his sight, but he already had his own reactions to Parvarti's predicament to portion out with, he didn't want to stand there and bear witness to Padma's. There was no way to tell how the little girl would take the intelligence, but judging from his aloof view it wasn't good.

Choosing to brush off them only let him dwell on his own miserableness. He hadn't intended to fight with Ginny, but finding her in Draco's room just after being kidnapped by the guy's father was a bit more than than he'd been make to handle. His business for her had been quickly overshadowed by his anger with her. He was mad at everyone including himself… after all they wouldn't have been able-bodied to lie to him so easily if he hadn't been so willing to go along. After Jacey came to him and confessed to possibly knowing that Tristan and Ilion were trying to bend Parvati, he should receive insisted to have a go at it the rest- he'd known she was still holding back. Instead he'd let his need to finger solace outweigh his pauperism for the truth. Perhaps he needed a break from everyone he knew. His flavour for and about everyone were a mix up mess, he knew he needed to contract Ginny's advice and straighten himself out before he could clearly see his friends again. As it was the right way now… maybe his baby had also been right about how he was beginning to find about everyone, maybe he did regard them as the opposition and that was something he wasn't glad about. Something needed to change.

So he decided, starting tomorrow he'd completely distance himself from his friends as he'd already started with his sister. He was tired of feeling hurt, and pushing away everyone was the entirely way he could see that would induce it stop.

( breakout )

It'll be alright. Jacey heard Lupin think out to her as she entered the Headmaster's
office, answering an early morning summons that had arrived for Tristan. She had been certainly to take enough of the Polyjuice potion, having been warned by Harry and Luna that the old wizard was a lot sharper than most desire to give him credit for… Though, it had made her feel better to see that Dumbledore had been fooled by the potion before, and with individual he knew way better than Tristan. Harry had insisted that if the man hadn't been able to tell the remainder between a fake and real Auror Moody three years earlier, then it should be that much easier to fritter him now.

'' Mr. Macnair, please come in and have a seat. '' Dumbledore said tensely, studying her a little too close for comfort.

Jacey forced herself to stay calm and focused on keeping the shields up high around her mind. She could feel Harry and Luna helping her shield, as they were wide awake and aware of what she was doing… she had burst in on them in a panic as soon as she had received the note, suddenly uncertain that she could pull this off. Remembering the pep talk of the town they had given her, she offered an easy smile and walked confidently across the way to sit in the chairperson next to the one being offered, knowing Tristan would savour in even that diminished bit of defiance. `` You wanted to see me sir ? '' She asked with false innocence.

'' It has just this morning come to my attending that troy Mason is yet again missing. It seems he didn't tax return from Hogsmeade with everyone else. I was wondering if you could tell me where he is. '' Dumbledore replied steadily.

'' And I'm wondering why it would postulate you all night to note that one of your students has gone missing. '' Jacey shot back coolly as she maintained Tristan's attitude.

'' It seems a calculated effort was conducted by the entire Slytherin house to wrap up up the fact that Mr. Mason never returned. They are all currently on probation while we investigate their possible affaire. Of course none of them have pointed the finger's breadth at you. ``

'' Then why am I here ? '' She asked, keeping time lag of her casual smiling. `` I don't stay in the Slytherin dorm and they haven't cited my involvement in anything. So what makes you so sure that I can tell you anything about Troy ? ``

'' Ah, because prof Lupin was in the village yesterday and it seems the utmost somebody he saw Mr. Mason with was you. '' Dumbledore said, looking back and forth between her and lupin. `` Of course he could be mistaken as not everyone is always who they appear to be. ``

'' So what, you're automatically going to blame the vampire ? '' She was defensive, trying to focus the old wizard's attention on her as she reached out to help protect lupine's mind from invasion as well, leaving Harry and Luna to protect hers. `` I'm not so sure that one rather biased attestant is enough to warrant accusations to… what exactly ? What is it you think may take in happened to Troy ? After all, he's disappeared all on his own before. ``

'' I have no mind as to Mr. James Neville Mason's fate. Which is why I brought you here hoping to brighten a few things up. When did you last see him ? ``

'' In the village. '' She shrugged.

'' Can you be more specific ? ``

'' Hogsmeade village ? '' She laughed cruelly, fully embracing the component she had to play as it was the only way to get through this.

Dumbledore sat back and brought his hands together, staring at her over his fingertips. `` Okay Mr. Macnair. Where and what prison term would you say you concluding saw Troy Freemason yesterday in Hogsmeade ? ``

'' That's backbreaking to say, there were so many people there and we all had to split up and go indoors when that snowstorm hit… '' She dragged on being purposely difficult.

A knock on the doorway interrupted them and therapist Drake entered. She'd only met the man once as herself and she knew nothing about him former than that the others seemed to swear him. `` I've brought the Sojourner Truth potion you asked for sir. '' He said, holding up a ampoule as he crossed the room.

'' You can't use that on a pupil. '' She said right away, trying to blot out her terror. There was no telling what the master would ask if she were under the influence of that potion, and she certainly did not want to give him the chance of letting her find out.

'' Really ? The Headmistress who took my place here a couple of years ago found that using several unauthorised spells and potions against students served her better design. And I do trust Dolores Umbridge was a appendage of your household's rather powerful friends at one point. '' Dumbledore said, obviously testing her.

'' That was then and this is now. '' She had very slight musical theme as to the soul he was referring to. She had seen blurred images of an vile adult female in Harry's mind… after the outrageous detentions he had served with the woman, he had lumped her in with his auntie and uncle in his memories under the informal bearing People Who Have Wronged Me… Otherwise, she knew only that Umbridge had tried and failed to take over the shoal. `` If you use that on me I'll paper you flying than you can pile your suitcase. I'm not Potter, I won't suffer in silence for the greater good. ``

'' You can be made to drink this if you're no longer a student. '' Dumbledore returned. `` If I expel you- ''

'' Under what footing ? So what if I was the cobbler's last one seen with Troy. He's a big boy and he makes his own decisions. '' Jacey sneered.

'' There's also the matter of Professor Lupin seeing both you and Mr. James Mason outside the village limits while he was investigating a rather sober mental disorder with some early students and an escaped Death feeder. '' Dumbledore smiled and leaned forward on his desk. `` This places you in direct violation of school day codes and as a educatee has come up missing as a resolution of your activity, this has been elevated to a very severe issue of base hit. As this is a metre of war, the disciplinal topic in which you are need carries the testimonial of immediate expulsion and therefore I am allowed as Headmaster to use any non-violent means necessary to procure the information I require as it relates to the potential eudaemonia of another student. It's all right hand there in the Hogwarts Code of Conduct under the provision for running the school while under distress. Wartime is certainly classified and defined as being under distress and so I am granted more autonomy than I would normally be will to take vantage of. But I promise you Mr. Macnair, we can find our way through and around as many legal loopholes as you and your friends have in the pursuit to keep you here. ``

The potion won't work. She heard Drake's unfamiliar vocalism drift through her head. Remus came to me this morning and with Harry's license told me who you are Miss Nicolau. I fixed up a placebo, there is no verity serum in there. All you have to do it spiel along and consecrate him what he wants to listen so that he can legally and without interrogative send Tristan away.

She was deliberate not to depend at him as he stood at Dumbledore's incline, keeping her gaze steady on the headmaster. `` Fine. '' She said at end, deciding to commit the therapist if everyone else did. After all, the man seemed to feel more dedication to Harry and the others than he did to any of the adult. `` pay me your stupid person potion, but don't think for a second I won't be telling everyone about this. ``

'' William Tell whoever you like. As I've explained we are perfectly within our right hand. '' Dumbledore answered simply as he watched her roughly take the vial from Francis Drake and swallow it down. She felt something startle to find and hoped the healer knew what he was talking about. The older wizard was looking at her carefully, watching for some sign of the potion beginning to work. Apparently he saw what he was waiting for and stood to rescue the trial run questions given to everyone who was subjected to truth potions. `` What is your name ? ``

'' Tristan Beauford Macnair. '' Jacey was trusted to answer without hesitation, fighting hard to not smile as she said Beauford… after all, she doubted that Tristram would suffer found the public figure funny.

'' Now try to enjoin me that your public figure is Albus Dumbledore. '' He instructed.

'' My epithet is… '' She pretended to shinny before seeming to give into the potion. `` Tristan Macnair. ``

Dumbledore nodded happily. `` Where is troy weight Mason ? ``

Again she pretended to struggle. `` He's out in the wood where I left him. '' She said at last before indignantly rising to her feet. After all, Tristram would not give in easily and as much as she wanted this to end, she knew she had to produce it depend real. She felt Harry sigh and then founder his loth approval as he realized she was about to go on playing her part. Both he and Luna understood the need to keep Dumbledore's hands clean of this. They had all hoped for a more definite end today ... but they all also knew that Tristan would never roll over so easily and that alone could raise suspicion. `` And that's all I'll say as we are quickly surpassing the shoal's right field and infringing on mine. Anything else you'd like to ask about Troy can be asked through my theatrical, should you decide to quest after a sound matter on troy weight's behalf. Otherwise it's clear I've been as cooperative as possible here, above and beyond what was required if I do say so myself. Now, is there anything else, sir ? '' She shot him a pleasant grin, as if they had been chatting like old friends this completely time.

'' I guess not. You may hark back to your room and begin packing your things. I will be presenting my evidence to the Aurors who will then be seeking rules of order to pick out you into detention. Until they procure these orders, you are confined to your dorm and the Great Hall for meals and banned from attending any classes. As Head of the Slytherin house, Professor Sir Francis Drake will be keeping a close eye on you. A admonition, should you feel the pauperism to seek retaliation for your present tense plight. '' Dumbledore answered sternly, clearly at the end of his patience.

'' well, I suppose I'll have to address with that as I live it up here these live few days. '' She said threateningly, hoping that any wrongdoing while she was still here was immediately blamed on Tristan. `` I assume I'm dismissed ? ``

'' Yes, professor Francis Drake will see you back to your dormitory. '' He gave an exhausted tone at the other man who simply nodded in reply and moved to carry out his task, ushering Jacey along with him.

'' Boy I hope you kids know what you're doing. '' Drake said quietly as they walked the halls.

'' So do we. '' She answered seriously.

( respite )

Harry and Luna spent a good half an hour assuring Jacey that she'd done just fine with Dumbledore, that they wouldn't have expected much dissimilar had Tristram himself been there. After she finally seemed to slack up, Harry sent out a message to all his friends, asking them to meet in his room so they could all discuss a few things. more than anything, he wanted to intimate to them all that they put the by few calendar week behind them and see only toward the future… And he and Luna planned to start by telling them all of the two other coven members they'd discovered before Hogsmeade happened and tore everything apart.

Hermione was the first to reply the call as her elbow room was the faithful and she entered looking like death warmed over. Her olfactory organ was red, her boldness pink and her center glazed over with a little fever. She had wrapped her mantle around herself for the short walk over and instantly went to lay down on Harry's bed as fatigue overwhelmed her. `` You look well. '' He teased.

'' Shut up. '' She grumbled from beneath the mint of covers. `` Does Jacey know about Fred ? ``

'' That he is missing ? '' Jacey asked from her spot on top of his bole, still looking very much like Tristan. `` I have seen a few things about it in your nous but I have not said anything to anyone… especially Ron. ``

'' Well thank you for that. '' Hermione offered a half-hearted smile before instantly going into telling them of what she and Lee had pieced together, as if she had to get it out before she forgot.

'' Professor Erebos… '' Harry had seen something of this in Luna's recollection of a conversation between her and Hermione the dark before, just as he had been able-bodied to see pieces of all of her retentivity. Thinking of Quierrell, the treacherously Moody and Snape, he could see how a professor could go so long without anyone knowing what they were really up to. `` Do you think he knows where Elanya took Fred ? And why would Elanya call him her contact if Elise is the one who supposedly knows him so well ? ``

'' I have no idea if he knows where Fred is, but I think maybe these girls are playing each other as well as everyone else. '' Hermione said as she propped herself up into a sitting position.

'' No, I get the horse sense Elise and Sarah are very much in it together… it's Elanya and Cho who are more on the outside. '' Luna replied thoughtfully. `` Maybe she was telling Fred the truth about some things… ''

'' Ginny and Draco are on their way here. '' Harry announced as a warning, silencing their discourse about Fred and his plight with those girls. He got up to let them in, noticing the rubbing between them. Dragon was wearing his coating. `` Going somewhere ? ``

'' He just got back. '' Ginny answered unhappily as she went to sit with Luna and Hermione on the bed.

'' I needed to go for a run. '' Draco said simply, pulling off his coat and going to sit in the desk hot seat away from everyone else. An all night run. Ginny added in her head, her voice carrying both hurt and concern.

'' Where's Ron ? '' Harry asked. `` He's the but one we're waiting for. ``

'' I doubt he'll be joining us. '' Ginny rolled her eyes and told them of the fight they'd gotten into the night before, leaving out most of the details in an try to give up their feeling for what Ron had said and simply summing up the kernel of the argument.

'' Okay then, well I guess we'll just let the cat out of the bag to him later. '' He replied, uncomfortable that his Friend suddenly felt the motive to avoid them all. `` Listen, yesterday was a atrocious disaster of a day for everyone. But we need to do as we always do and sustain going past it, right ? I know we all have our own things to focus on… but we'll be leaving school day in a few calendar week and we need to seriously go looking at searching for the coven as a reality. Luna and I went through some more than of the documents and found two Sir Thomas More names, Robert Adam Azibo and Ajala Kapoor. ``

'' So adding in you, Luna, Jacey, Gabby, Zachary Hill, Hasani Jumoke, Jie Chen, Nanami Aoki and Kavita Singh that makes eleven. There's only one Sir Thomas More figure. '' Hermione reasoned. `` Where are we going to find these two ? Who are they ? ``

'' Ajala is a 30 year old woman who has recently moved from Republic of India to Irish Republic for her work, which happens to be as weapons manufacturer. Her ship's company creates all the creature and weapon system used by Aurors and with the surge of activeness in and around England, they've doubled their efforts in the closest factory, which happened to be in capital of Ireland. Oh and she's a Levithon. '' Luna recited from memory.

'' A what ? '' Dragon asked.

'' A Levithon, someone with the index of self-transport. Basically it's like being able to fly. '' Luna shrugged.

'' I seem to remember from my muggle religious studies class that there was a holy man who had that office only they called it a miracle… St. Teresa of Avila, if I remember correctly, during the 16th century. '' Hermione looked at them all as they stared at her. She smiled and grabbed for a tissue to blow her nozzle. `` What ? I just remember it because it made me wonder- if proof of her power was so well documented, then why were muggles so reluctant to conceive in the things we can do ? ``

'' OK, Ajala can fly, that's pretty cool. And the other guy ? '' Ginny prompted, moving them along from Hermione's abbreviated theological history lesson.

Harry's own retention was vaguer than Luna's and so he picked up the composition to be sure enough he didn't leave anything out. `` The other one, hug drug, he's 23 and originally from Egypt. His power is postcognition and he currently lives in Sydney, Australia working as an investigative journalist. ``

Sydney ? Hermione perked up.

'' wellspring, I suppose it's William Christopher Handy to be able to see the past tense when you're a newsperson. '' Ginny said aloud as she rose to her feet. `` Listen, I appreciate that you want to help us all focus on former significant things, but after last night, I think I'd just rather have a few minutes alone. '' She added pointedly as she breezed past Draco and walked out. He sighed heavily and got up, leaving without saying a word as he presumably went to fix whatever he'd done wrong.

'' I have a thought. '' Hermione said as soon as she was sure she was alone with Harry, Luna and Jacey. `` When exactly did Elise bump Elanya and get her into the crimp ? ``

'' Sometime at the beginning of summer, before she torched Fred's shop class. '' Luna answered, remembering her and Harry's trip through Sarah's brain. `` Voldemort unknowingly brought her to Sarah after the girls were already plotting together. ``

'' And according to Erebos's disc, he left for Sydney the Saame day schooling let out hold up year… what if he met up with Elise down there because they were looking for a postcognative to pull off whatever programme they have going ? What if they found cristal before Elanya and approached him first ? If he really is supposed to be a good guy then he would experience of course of study turned them down, but Elanya had her own reasons to join them, right ? '' Hermione's eyes were all-encompassing as she tried to push aside her fever in an effort to make her mind connect things together.

'' Even if that were all true, how does it facilitate us find Fred ? '' Harry asked gently.

'' It doesn't, but it does proffer more trial impression that Erebos is the spy, doesn't it ? '' She returned excitedly. `` Who knows what he and Elise could have told Elanya, they could suffer pretended not to even know each other in order to see to it they hooked the lady friend. What if he even approached Elanya alone ? That would explain why she felt he was her contact and not Elise's, wouldn't it ? And in Luna's visual modality, Sarah had teased Elise about a previous relationship, but not in a way that made it shed light on who she was talking about, right ? ``

'' I admit that it all seems to fit, but that does not mean it is unfeigned. '' Jacey said slowly. `` These girls you have been dealing with seem to be very tricky. It would be goosy to hold supposition. ``

'' You don't know Hermione like we do. '' Harry was defensive attitude on Hermione's behalf. `` I'm leave to bet she's right about most of it if not everything… and there's a way to find out. ``

Luna shook her head. `` If he is the spy, don't you think he'd be expecting that ? Simon is getting help keeping his mind closed against us and I'm certain Erebos is much more proficient at it even if he's getting help as well. Even if the three of us work together, there's nothing to say he won't feel us in there. ``

'' Edmund didn't. '' He argued.

'' And he wasn't aware that we would try to get in his head teacher. I'm surely it's something Erebos would anticipate… if he is the spy, which I'm inclined to trust he is. '' She returned.

'' well it is worth trying, is it not ? '' Jacey joined Harry's English of the disputation. `` If we think he is cognizant then so what ? What can he do about it early than tell those girls that we may be on to him ? It would be worth it if he knows where Fred has been taken and we are able-bodied to see it, yes ? ``

'' Yes ! '' Hermione instantly agreed. `` Tristan and I are the but ace in seventh year who attend Erebos's class. Jacey can try it tomorrow while he's instruction and even if he figures out we know, we're out of here in a few weeks… there's null he can do about it. ``

'' Dumbledore banned Tristan from attending course of instruction so Jacey wouldn't be able to get close enough. '' Luna tried a dissimilar argument.

'' Since when would that stop Tristram ? He has already been told he is as sound as kicked out, why would he not just do whatever he pleased ? I will go to that class tomorrow. '' Jacey answered for herself.

'' '' I don't know. '' Harry said, suddenly coming around to Luna's more cautious way of thinking.

'' If he did observe out we were on to him, I would never let him pain Hermione or myself while we're trapped away in a classroom with him. '' Jacey said in reassurance as she picked up on his fears and doubts.

'' Oh, I believe you, I'd just rather it not have to fare to that. '' He sighed. `` But I guess all we can deal with right now is speculation until we get something more solid to guide us. ``

'' Fine. '' Luna gave in as well. `` But we have to be very careful. ``

'' wellspring that goes without saying. '' He agreed, moving to the door.

'' Where are you going ? '' Hermione asked.

'' fountainhead, I was going to let you three braniacs try to save piecing affair together while I went to spill the beans to Ron. '' He answered. He'd felt distracted this whole time, half-worried about and half-angry with his absent friend.

'' You should probably not do that. '' Jacey said quietly.

'' Why because he's mad at us ? What else is new ? '' Hermione asked, decidedly rising to her infantry and wrapping her blanket around her again. `` I'll go with you. ``

'' fountainhead I want no part in it until he is quick to fall talk to me. '' Jacey insisted. `` I will be in Tristan's way if you need me later. '' She waved so long and left the room.

'' What do you imagine ? '' He asked Luna and Hermione.

Luna shrugged. `` I agree with Jacey that it's a bad idea, but I'll go with you both to see if maybe we can reach out to him anyway… he's very confused about everything right now. ``

So in reluctant understanding, they left Harry's elbow room and walked the curt way down the hall to Ron's. He answered after the third whang, staring dagger at them. `` What do you three want ? '' He asked meanly.

'' To verbalise to you… why didn't you come join everyone ? '' Harry asked, walking past him into the room.

'' I thought I'd made myself clear by not going… I don't want to be around any of you at the moment. '' Ron glowered, slamming the door shut after Hermione and Luna followed Harry in. `` I do make my own free will you do it. I don't have to be at your beck and anticipate like everyone else. ``

'' Whatever you say Ron. '' He tried to rest calm, to remember that his Friend was hurting and needed them to be there for him.

'' Yeah, it is whatever I say because I'm tired of it always being whatever Harry says. '' He shot back.

'' What is your job ? Just tell us what's wrongly ? '' Hermione demanded softly.

'' You ! All of you are what's wrong ! '' Ron shouted, startling them all.

'' You can't blame everyone else for what's bothering you. '' She shouted back. `` At some tip you have to stop and consider that it's not always everyone else that's the problem, sometimes it's you ! ``

'' I can palpate whatever I want just like the repose of you. '' He replied. `` You're not so high and mighty Hermione. You're the one we had to take out out of a hole yesterday nearly frozen… and why ? Because you lost your school principal over my brother which, oh yeah, also allowed Lucius Malfoy to capture my sister ! In a sense, everything Lucius was able-bodied to accomplish yesterday is your fault since you practically handed Ginny over to him to use as a hostage. Do you think Fred would be impressed with that ? ``

'' Hey ! '' Harry yelled, interrupting the spew of hate Ron had been hurling at Hermione. Seeing her stung manifestation and the binge of hurt in her centre, it was severe to keep in idea that the early boy didn't know Fred was missing. `` That was completely uncalled for and entirely false ! ``

'' It's all true and she knows it ! '' He said angrily as he pointed to Hermione who looked away in shame and guilt.

'' Ron, please- '' Luna started.

'' Please ? delight what ? '' He interrupted as he mocked her. `` Always so willowy and fragile aren't you Luna… always the eternal victim… ''

'' What's that supposed to mean ? '' She asked defensively while mentally telling Harry to back off and let Ron get it off his chest.

'' Like you don't know ? Everything that happened to you yesterday was your own fault ! Maybe it's time you start considering your own selection before lecturing everyone else on theirs. '' He sneered down at her. Harry was itching to make it hold back but again Luna held him back, telling him it was better that Ron not take hold this all in no matter how a good deal it may offend their flavour. Ron went on, his back now to Harry as he fully faced Luna to go along berating her. `` You're the one who decided to get away from St. Simon by apparating to the orchard instead of somewhere safer. You're the one who chose to get away from Crabbe and Goyle by returning to the wood where, surprise, damsel in hurt Luna slides over a cliff ! ``

'' That was a series of circumstances ! How is any of that her fault ? '' Harry finally let out, ineffective to go along quiet any longer.

Ron whipped around to face him. `` Hey, she's the one who decided it was in her full interest to leave the inn ! She was entirely safe when I left her with Hermione. ``

'' Exactly ! You left ! Where were you to aid ? '' He shot back.

'' Talking to Padma, trying to forecast out how I was going to bring her to play up with her now vampire Gemini ! '' Ron roared out. `` Luna is no longer my province to seem after remember ? She's yours ! And if it weren't for you, Lucius probably wouldn't have even had any interest in her anyway ! ``

'' Excuse me ? '' Harry asked darkly.

'' The Quibbler article… Lucius was very particular that the article was the grounds he was ready to throw her off a drop. You're the one who came up with the idea and contacted her father about it without her knowledge. You're the one who made sure as shooting Xeno had all the selective information and you're the one who talked her into going along with it. If I recall, Luna wasn't too happy about the article, thought it was a bad idea… fountainhead you're the one who chose not to listen to her ! So putting it all together, it was your determination that nearly got her killed yesterday ! ``

Harry reacted without thinking, simply wanting to lash out and hurt the way he was now hurting. He hadn't even realized he'd swung his fist until he saw Ron laying on the flooring before him, glaring up as he rubbed his jaw. `` What's the matter Harry ? Does the truth hurt ? '' He taunted.

'' barricade it ! Everyone just block off ! '' Hermione shouted, her voice growing hoarse as she continued to extend it.

'' You're the ones who barged in here to get to me. '' Ron said, rising to his groundwork and pushing past her to see at his face in the diminished mirror hanging over his dresser.

Harry shook his head and simply walked out, going back to his own elbow room and closing the door tightly behind him, wanting to keep out out the world. To her credit, Luna gave him nearly an intact hr to himself before coming to demand he spread up and front her. He sighed and went to let her in, once again finding it unimaginable to abnegate her even as his disgrace and fury with himself made him only want to obscure from her. `` You were aright, going to lecture to him was a bad idea… you were right every time you said something was a bad idea… '' He told her, going to sit at his desk.

'' Harry- ''

'' I've learned my lesson though… I'll listen when you say that from now on. '' He interrupted as he hung his head and stared at his hands.

She walked over and moved his arms, settling herself in his lap as she comfortingly ran her fingerbreadth through his hair. `` The the true needed to come out about Lucius. '' She said gently. `` I may not have liked the way you chose, but after seeing my beginner survive an attack only to still be so insure that he'd done the right on thing… I long ago came to terms with the fact that it was unsafe. Everything we do now is dangerous, there's no getting around that. You can't blame yourself for what Lucius chooses to do. And without coming face to face with him yesterday, we wouldn't have his confession about Kane. ``

'' It was too close for comfort… I thought I was literally having a heart attack when I saw you and Draco go over the side… '' He leaned to pillow his forehead on her shoulder, unable to meet her eyes.

'' Hey, I may make been scared, but I never for a bit thinking I was going to die. I knew you were coming to help us. '' She reassured him, still delicately stroking his hair.

'' How could you love I would get there in time ? ``

'' Harry… '' She laughed and made him look at her. `` Don't you think I of all people would screw ? Don't you think I'd get some warning, some vision telling me the end was near ? aught at all came to me while Draco was holding onto me, that's how I knew you'd get there in clock time. '' She kissed his cheek and he quickly turned to capture her lips. With one graceful apparent movement, she turned herself and was now straddling him, throwing her implements of war around his berm as she deepened the kiss. He wrapped his blazon around her waistline and pulled her closer against him, needing to experience that the haleness that only she could bring as her light filled every void blank space inside of him.

For a bit there he'd felt the humans collapse down around him as he'd taken in the truth of Ron's harsh discussion, that his own activeness months ago had put Lucius standing over Luna with the decision to let her experience or die… The fact that the man would receive probably gone ahead and crushed her finger anyway simply because she'd seen him there signify nothing because Lucius had been very percipient in his intellect for attempting to help her surrender to her death. But she had come and just made it better with kind words of her own… She had been able-bodied to take away the power his guilty conscience had over him by simply asserting her impression in him and in herself.

Ron had no estimate what he was talking about, Luna had never allowed anything to keep on her from fighting on and she was far from playing the victim. In fact in that moment, she was his bomber, bringing him back from the torturous shackles of self-doubt. He felt her smile against his lips as she picked up his thoughts and knew that she liked how he saw her in his judgment. I love you. He thought to her, a simple argument that held more truth and depth of emotion than anything he'd ever before uttered in his entire life.

No More than I love you. She assured him, breaking the kiss to depend him in the eyes. And then there were no more news left to say, nothing left that could evince what either of them was feeling. And so he reached up to take her lips again, aegir to let their minds and eubstance say what their Logos and thought process were unable to articulate.

( faulting )

Ginny walked into her room, leaving the door open as she was sure Draco had picked up on her non-to-subtle hint. Sure enough he came in a few minute after her, quietly closing the threshold behind him and leaning against it, waiting to see what was to come. `` Really ? You stay out all night knowing that Parvati was still out there ? That Lucius could take in come back ? I stayed up waiting for you, worrying myself crazy thinking of everything that could have happened only to find you sauntering in after Harry calls us all together ! You're bad for my nerves. '' She scolded.

'' I'm sorry you were worried. '' He said, shuffling his base. `` I didn't mean value to be gone all night but once I was out there, it just felt so good… running made me not recall, made me feel relieve I guess. ``

'' And I made you finger trapped ? '' She asked, hurt by the implication.

'' Not in the way you're thinking. '' He insisted. `` The full synodic month is tomorrow nighttime and so I already feel like I'm crawling out of my skin… like my stallion soundbox is a cage that's just barely keeping me inside. No crystal or potion can adopt away that feeling. On top of that, it was too often to be presented with the idea that my own father could have taken you away from me so easily… that I had something to lose that would completely destruct me. I'm not used to caring Ginny, but you make it easier… And now it feels like I care too much, you know ? Like my full existence rests on your welfare… ''

'' You think I don't know what that's like ? I'm the one who had your rake all over my hands yesterday. '' She reminded him. `` You think I wasn't ready to break at the cerebration that you'd been fatally injured ? I never expected to handle this much about someone, let alone you. But now that we're here together, I can't imagine it any early way and I wouldn't want to. ``

He nodded and crossed his arms across his chest as a sort of buckler. `` As long as you know that I love you and that I don't inculpation you for any of this… I just can't be here, stuck in this castle right now… ''

'' Meaning what ? ``

'' After Lupin was done with his meeting with Jacey and Dumbledore, I went to see him to call for that we leave a day early like rule. '' He seemed to brace himself as he waited for her reaction.

'' I thought the pointedness of the amulet was that you didn't have to leave at all. '' She said slowly.

'' That's what lupine said… But I don't think I'll wear that tomorrow… I think I would kind of like to let the skirt chaser run free for a bit, under the restraint of the Aconitum lycoctonum of track. ``

'' Be honest… Should I be worried about you ? '' She asked quietly.

Dragon seemed to shake himself off a bit, uncrossing his arms and putting on a smiling that didn't quite reach his eyes. `` Yesterday was a lot to carry in… I just need some metre. ``

'' I knew… yesterday even while it was all happening, I knew you were going to amount out of this different. '' She walked over and took his paw, looking up at him and feeling very much like she was pleading with him. `` I understand why… I just don't want you to be different with me. For better or speculative I like who you are with me. show up the balance of the world whatever you want Dragon, but please just rest honest with me. ``

'' I'm trying. '' He whispered sadly, pulling her against him as he hugged her closing curtain. `` I just postulate this time away… from you and myself. That's why I don't want to wear the amulet tomorrow… I don't want to detain myself right now. ``

'' And when you come back ? '' She asked, looking up at him hopefully.

'' It's not like I can walk away from you forever, you know. '' He offered a genuine smile this time. `` It seems I can't really picture any sorting of life sentence without you in it. ``

'' commodity. Because I'm scared you're going to try and do something misguidedly Lord like leaving to ensure Lucius won't target me again. '' Ginny said seriously. `` Regardless what happened yesterday with him, I feel safer when you're around me. ``

'' What you feel and what is the actual realism are two different things. '' He reached out to brush her hair back before kissing her forehead. `` It's always going to be more serious for you to be around me… but I've long ago realized you're pretty much a quarry for risk with the decisions you make and the people you associate with. Unless you're ready to agree to live your life in a gurgle, I'm in it for the long haul to ensure that not only do you not get yourself killed, that no one ever again tries to suffer you to get at me… My going for unspoiled wouldn't keep Lucius from using you again to flush me out, and it would act upon just as well as it did yesterday because zippo as round-eyed as space can shift the way I feel about you. But I need these two days now Ginny. For my own sanity. ``

She looked at him carefully, before letting out a deep breath. `` Okay. '' She agreed now that she felt she believed he would come back. But component of her was still loth, still awful that while out there he would change his mind and decide she was dependable off without him after all. `` Just remember, I'd free fall apart if you didn't come back. ``

'' Tuesday morning I'll be here. '' He promised. She wanted to believe him completely. But that lowly hen-peck voice that always seemed to shout out that she wasn't meant to be happy kept her from fully allowing herself to trust that the hook of the populace beyond Hogwarts was weaker than the desire to refund to someplace he'd admitted he felt entirely trapped in.

( BREAK )

Ron waited until late Sunday night, wanting to be sure that everyone else had gone to bed in preparation for their course of study the adjacent day. As soon as his clock read midnight he got out of bed, still fully dressed, and made his way across the common elbow room to the Slytherin flank. He knew Tristan's threshold was just retiring Draco's and as he raised his hired hand to knock, he hoped Jacey answered looking like the vampire as it would make it well-situated to say the things he'd decided he needed to say to her. To the disappointment of his mind but not his eyes, she opened the door looking very much like herself. It was amazing that she could look so stunning in dewy-eyed pajamas, but the sleek shirt and knickers seemed to hug her body just right, making her appear soft and curvy. Her hair was hanging in rampantly gyre around her shoulders, making it tantalizingly clear that she'd just rolled out of bed. `` Was there something you wanted ? '' She asked softly, clearly aware of the tenseness and anger he felt towards her.

He shook himself a bit, remembering that he'd made a conclusion and that he was determined to stick with it. `` I need to talk to you for a moment. ``

She gestured him in and closed the threshold, turning to look him with unquiet concern. `` Have you heard anything about Parvati yet ? '' She looked down, and he began to question if she already knew why he'd ejaculate to see her.

'' lupin told me before he and Draco left that his link had gotten a hold of him to cover that she had gotten Parvati to the colony and they were well. '' He crossed his munition and stared her down, almost daring her to meet his eyes. `` As well as can be expected anyway, given the fact that she had to be taken away from her friends and family to see how to be a punter vampire. ``

'' It is not all my fault ! '' She protested, once more raising her gaze. `` I am sorry for the part I played in it by not saying what I suspected, but I am not the one who targeted her, I am not the one who turned her and I am not the one who is letting my guilt destruct my biography ! ``

'' Of class I feel shamed ! '' Ron shouted. `` I was all wrapped up in idea of you while she was off being fed on or whatever it takes to turn soul ! She relied on me and I let her down, well I won't do it anymore. ``

'' Meaning what ? Have you come to differentiate me off the same way you did all your other admirer ? ``

'' I don't have to. You aren't my friend, I barely know you. '' He saw that she was hurt badly by this and it hurt him to see it. He may not know her wellspring, but this was certainly proving to be gruelling than it had been to say the things he knew would realise his ally mad at him. He wondered how Harry had been able-bodied to hold on this act up for so long hold up yr when he was already cook to throw in the towel at the sight of Jacey's upset with him. But if he wanted to be left alone, he had to assure no one wanted to bother him. `` For a here and now I thought I wanted to know you, but you're as big a liar as Harry, Luna and Hermione. Besides, if I can barely suffer to be around myself, how can I possibly be near you when the great deal of you makes me think of everything that Anapurna is going through because you didn't warn anyone ? ``

'' O.K., you have made your point. '' She said crossly. `` I think you should go before you say something I really can not forgive. Remember Ron, eventually you will find a way to move past what you are feeling… you do not desire to completely burn every bridge you have. ``

'' Maybe I do. '' He countered. `` It would reach it that much easier to startle over from scratch. ``

'' Why would you need to do that ? '' She pushed. `` Your friends, your family… they have always been there for you. Maybe not always in way that you approve of, but you can only really blame them for doing what they thought was best for you. I know the thing you said to them today, the way you made them feel about themselves. I know that it is easy for you to make them recollect badly of themselves so that they will forget they are mad at you for putting those thought in their caput in the first place. But what you are doing is cruel. Harry already feels so much responsibility for everyone's welfare, making him think almost losing Luna was his fault was a horrible thing to do. ``

'' I wasn't wrong. '' He shot back, trying to prove that he was unmoved by her words. `` He's the genius behind Xeno releasing that story, everything that happens as a resultant of it is in some way his shift. He provided the catalyst. ``

'' And even now after you have made that exonerate and nearly crushed him with that knowledge, he would lay down his life to save yours. '' She said angrily. `` You are letting what you feel make you act selfishly. However true the matter you say may be, how is bringing it to anyone's attention a electropositive thing to do ? Everyone needs a bit of denial to go on after so a good deal mindless and unending tragedy, even you. Taking theirs away from them, exposing all the things they had repressed in parliamentary law to keep moving forward… you are hurting them more than they realize. And more than you realize. You have no approximation what is going on between Hermione and Fred right now and the therefore the things you said to her were devastating for her to hear. After finding her in that jam so completely lost, you should have realized that she is in a very delicate position at the mo. ``

'' You're right, I have no idea what's going on between Hermione and Fred. You know why ? Because no one tells me anything anymore ! '' He shouted. `` That's kind of my unhurt peak here ! '' He stalked over to the doorway, more angry with her now than when he'd come in. He wanted the lavishness of focusing on his own excited state, he didn't want to experience to become aware of anyone else's. Of course of study he knew they were all pain after recent events… but he wanted his pain to take on center stage for once. He didn't want to have to realize that to each of them, their own pain was the most important… he didn't want to have to take that there were those among his friends who may deliver deserved to sense worse than he did. So what if that made him selfish… he was seventeen and this was the time to be selfish, to be young and responsibility-free, to not deliver to care about anyone but himself before growing up and having to get a job and jump a kin. He was tired and wanted the spirit of a convention teen and the best way to achieve that was to outdistance himself from those that by blueprint or desire were now forced to be more mature.

'' Please do not just walk out. '' Jacey said softly as he breezed past her.

'' There's null more to say and zilch more than I want to try. '' He answered meanly, opening the door and walking out.

It wasn't until he reached his own room that he finally allowed himself to breathe. Facing Jacey had been harder than the others, perhaps because he'd been disappointed in her the most. Harry and the others he was used to getting the run around from, but he'd expected more from her. Ron had thought she was feeling the Same way for him that he felt for her, but then she had so easily lied to him, siding with his friends against him immediately. And meanwhile, he'd lost a girl who really had tried to care about him to a dreadful fate… A circumstances that had been allowed to go on by the miss he'd allowed himself to be distracted by. Until he could forgive himself, he'd never be capable to forgive Jacey… and at this breaker point, he wasn't entirely sure he wanted to.

( BREAK )

Hermione lay in bed and stared at the ceiling. She was too hot to log Z's, though once she kicked off her covers she found she was suddenly too insensate. She'd tried taking the herb given to her by the healers but they had only relieved her sore throat and stuffed nose. The headache remained, and she began to mistrust that it had nothing to do with the frigid she'd caught. Ron's word of honor were echoing in her head, making her dubiousness so many things… but she wouldn't let herself be swept up in it. She'd have mint of time to palpate bad once she was sure Fred was safe.

As a distraction, she focused her mind on finding a solution. At start they'd all agreed that finding out where Fred was being kept was the most crucial matter, but she was starting to believe otherwise. What good would finding him do if they didn't build out a way to disentangle him from the trap that had forced him to forget in the first place ? Nailing down the spy was the key… Erebos and Simon, it was important that they figure out how these two were actually connected to Elanya, Elise and Sarah. Once they were discovered, their threat would no longer hold weightiness and Fred could be freed of the fear of Ron and Ginny being killed if he didn't cooperate. The succeeding step was something Lee and Willem could do for her in London… they had to be absolutely sure there was no proof to tie Fred to Edmund's death, nothing that Elanya could use to prove he'd helped her in any way. The last step was finding a way to end the threat Sarah had hung over Hermione's own oral sex. Once that was done, there was nothing to impel Fred to continue to join forces and then they could find him and bring him home.

There was only one way she had been able-bodied to believe of overcoming Sarah's skill with Advanced Astral Projection and that was to suit a comparable opponent. She'd already read the Good Book she'd gotten from the library once… now it was time to take through them again to be sure she hadn't missed anything and then it would be clip to practice session. She turned on the light and picked up one of the book of account, figuring it was a better use of her insomnia than staring at the ceiling and worrying endlessly. She was determined that by the end of this week she would have a go at it everything Sarah knew about astral projection… That they will feature neutralized the threats presented by Erebos and Simon… And that they will not only have found where Elanya took Fred, but also have a satisfying plan for how to bring him back.

　

Federal Reserve note : Next chapter, the hunt for Fred and some more things are brought to light source. Stay tuned to find out what happens succeeding !

acknowledgment to Dwight Lyman Moody and the polyjuice potion from Harry thrower and the Goblet of fervour by J.K. Rowling.
Reference to Dolores Umbridge from Harry potter and the Order of the phoenix by J.K. Rowling.
Reference to Quierrell from Harry thrower and the necromancer's/Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling


Chapter 53 : And the Plot Thickens

A/N : Wow did this chapter take a turn I wasn't expecting as I was writing, thus the title of the chapter… I guess we'll all see where this takes us now. Read, Review, Enjoy !





'' You're certainly about this ? '' lupine asked as they watched the synodic month rise from beneath the trees.

'' I am. '' Draco answered steadily, clutching his amulet tightly as he waited for himself to be make to absent it. They had hiked all day in secrecy yesterday, both content to let the other be lost in their own thoughts as they left any trace of civilization far behind them. He'd been grateful that Lupin had allowed the secretiveness to continue into the night and next day… he felt awkward around the man and didn't know how to talk to him anymore. Lucius had been ready to bolt down lupin simply for agreeing to legally count after Dragon and worse, he'd threatened to go after lily-of-the-valley tree, Ted and Tonks as well before he'd escaped. His father's inexplicable anger and jealousy was obviously something ceramist hadn't anticipated when he'd suggested this whole charge matter for them… none of them had. `` You don't have to come with, you know. You can keep open your talisman on and remain human… I took the potion, I'll be fine. ``

'' I know. But I want to go with. '' He insisted. `` I've had to do this by myself for many twelvemonth, and even when you think you don't want anyone else there, I've found it's always better not to go through it alone. I had King James and Sirius… and because they kept me going, now you have me to help you. ``

genus Draco shook his pass. `` schooling's over in a few hebdomad, I'll be moving back in with Potter I dead reckoning, since that's where everyone seems to go. I have the amulet and a signified of some sorting of control… you don't have to be there for me anymore. You can subscribe back your care and erase all traces that tie yours and Tonks name to mine. ``

'' I could, but why would I ? '' lupin smiled. `` You can't always expect that masses will just collapse up on you when things get too hard Dragon. Not everyone is like that. You may call back that it's difficult to afford yourself up to caring about others… but that's the easy persona. It can be far more unmanageable to spread out yourself up to letting others care about you. ``

'' I just don't want it to be my fault if Lucius decides to go after you guys ! '' He said angrily, taking a few gradation away.

'' And it wouldn't be. '' He said gently. `` What your father chooses to do is up to him, but the bad rakehell between him and Andromeda goes back to before you were born. Her recent benignity to you is only the latest excuse for him to seek retribution against her. Tonks has been in his mountain for year as she was a piece of several different investigating seeking to convey him down. And after what happened in the Ministry of Magic, after losing Canicula, she had already sworn to avail get Lucius and the others if it was the last-place thing she did. I know you don't know your cousin very well, but it takes a lot for her to back down from anything. '' He smiled as he thought of his wife. `` As for me, well, you've kind of grown on me. I'm certainly not scared of Lucius, and I wouldn't let him be the thing that has you pushing me away when it's clear you'd rather have me around. ``

'' I guess you've grown on me too. '' Draco mumbled. `` Which is why the last thing I want to be is a incumbrance. ``

'' And you aren't. '' lupine insisted. `` My class was always cold and upstage, and they became even more so after I became afflicted with this expletive. My wholly life I had to make my own category, which is what I managed to do with James, Lily and Sirius. After I lost them, I thought I was finished caring about people… And then I got the chance to not only meet and be dear Harry, but to assist clear Sirius's public figure as well. Since then I've opened myself up and began making my own family again, up to and including falling in love with and marrying Tonks. I care about all of you kids… and I certainly love Harry as if he were my own son. But you Draco, you have become somebody important to me as well, mortal I can plowshare the most horrible part of my life with, someone who makes this curse easier to pay because now I have the responsibleness of guiding you through living your biography with it. I'm not revoking my guardianship, and it's not just because I think you still involve me and Tonks and the illusion of family unit we can propose you, it's also because I need you to be in my aliveness. ``

He didn't know what to say or even how he felt. He was still getting used to what it was like to do it Ginny, how was he also supposed to manage the feelings that came with having formula kinsperson members who not only cared about him, but actually wanted him around ? Lupin was related to him through marriage ceremony and a trip of newspaper publisher, but in that moment it felt as if he were everything Draco had always wanted but never had… founding father, brother, uncle, cousin and best Friend all wrapped up in one package and waiting for him to accept it. `` Okay. '' He said, not trusting himself to say anything else without betraying how emotional he felt.

Lupin laughed and patted his berm. `` Come on, let's let ourselves go for the night and just love the run. We'll head back towards Hogwarts so we won't have as far to travel in the good morning. ``

Dragon nodded in silent agreement. Together they removed their amulet, storing them safely in their old bag, of which they'd loosened the straps to fit their soon to be larger forms. Stepping out into the Moon, he wasn't quite sure what to expect… the transmutation wasn't as sore as he remembered, though perhaps it was because this meter he fully embraced it, wanting the savage to be free. Still retaining their own creative thinker, they were now in strange bodies and had to be careful as they remembered to lather the base to their cover. They shared a facial expression before Lupin threw his fountainhead to the moon and let out a natural state howl. And then they were off, allowing the brute to run and fiddle while they attempted to release off their human being thoughts.

( BREAK )

As had become his custom, Fred woke early, just before the sun rose. Of grade he had no melodic theme what time that was, just as he had no melodic theme how long he'd actually been on this island… he'd forced himself to stop counting solar day after the twenty percent one, finding it far too dispirit. Instead he had learned to focus on finding what little delectation he could while he was imprisoned. Those odd flowers growing here had become one of those things he actually liked and so he'd begun getting up before the sun, gladly leaving the splendor of the Interior of their massive collapsible shelter that seemed so ordinary on the outside. As he now normally did, he walked up the beach to where a small patch of the strange flush grew wild.

Looking off into the celestial horizon as he waited for the sun to peek over it, he let his psyche wander… Wondering what his friends were up to, what Hermione must be thinking about his disappearance, whether his parents knew he was in trouble, and near prominently ... how was he going to get himself out of this ? Hearing a tawdry squawking sound that still terrified him no issue how many multiplication he heard it, he glanced up into the quickly brightening sky and saw the dreary outline of those weird puppet that enjoyed flying through the dawn. He didn't know what they were and they never came close enough for him to really see them, which was amercement by him as he wasn't about to go looking for them. They seemed to bond to the tall mountains that made up most of this island and Fred had been surely to keep far away from there, choosing instead to remain near the beach where the vast sea reminded him of freedom.

At hold out the sun came up, breaking entirely disengage of the purview to start it's ascent through the sky. He eagerly turned back to the flowers, waiting for that initiative beam of light to touch them. At stopping point it happened and his eyes danced as bud after bud bloomed in an explosion of color- vibrant pinks and purples, neon megrims and K, deeply saturated orange and yellows. It was breathtaking to behold, like a work of art coming to biography right in strawman of him.

'' fountainhead, I figured I'd find you here again. '' Elanya said as she came up behind him. He ignored her as he'd been doing since that first night… he hadn't spoken a single news to her since setting up the tent. In fact, he felt like he was beginning to forget how to tattle at all as he'd never in his life been able-bodied to maintain silence for more than a few minutes let alone however long he'd been stuck here… Though in a sentiency, it did make him happy to fuck that his pigheadedness and willpower were so strong. He knew it was beginning to bother her that she was basically left talking to herself and as that was the only sort of victory he could reach, he was deliberate to keep open up his secretiveness. `` Don't you get tired of watching them day after day ? '' She goaded.

He wanted to tell her that he'd be capable to chance more provoke ways to pass his sentence had she not forced him onto this island where the only shape of entertainment was the strange mantrap of nature… But he didn't. He simply got up and brushed the sand from his shorts before stripping off his shoes and T-shirt and heading down to the piddle for a swim. He could feel her following him and smiled to himself, happy that he was proving to be an vexation to her. `` You have to sing to me sometime ! '' She called as he walked right into the piddle, letting the inexplicable warmth of it sooth away the tensity he carried at all clock time now. `` Hey ! '' She shouted loudly.

He turned to find her ankle-deep in the water. She'd taken off her clothes and was standing there in a revealing bathing suit that he hadn't even seen her leverage with his money. The fabric was aureate, nearly blending in with the thick tan she'd acquired while they'd been there and illuminating the honey-gold color of her middle. The sun shone through her loose auburn hair, casting a burnished aura around her. He bit the inside of his cheek, needing the pain to prompt him that as good as she may look she wasn't secure to let one's guard down around. `` Mind if I join you for a swim ? '' She asked slyly as she posed effortlessly in strawman of him like a favorable statue.

It was crystallise she wanted some response and it didn't subject whether it was a denial or espousal of her offer. She was clearly starting to act out in an attempt to manipulate him into doing what she wanted, which was speak to her. As a skilled liar and manipulator himself, he knew the things to count for and so he willfully kept his silence. Pretending he hadn't even seen her, he turned and dove into the lenient waves before moving his weapon system and wooden leg, gliding easily through the water without looking back. Everyday he managed to get further from the shoreline… not that he had any fantasy about being capable to swim his way across the ocean. But as Elanya never went more than waist-deep into the water, he'd derive to realize she was probably not a very strong or confident bather. This meant that the only sentence he could be assured of being away from her was way out where she dared not go.

Feeling his side begin to cramp and his limbs slow down, he stopped and treaded water system, turning to ensure she had in fact remained on the beach. Even at this far distance, he could tell she was raging as she strode back towards the tent. Breathing a sigh of relief Fred flipped over onto his spinal column and floated, measured to take care that he didn't let the electric current clout him further than he thought he could swim back. Allowing his drumhead to dip so that his capitulum were below piss where everything was muffled and staring at the endless blue sky, he felt relaxed… peaceful… and very lonely. As practically as he would wish to look on the shining English and love the scenery of where he was, the idea that so many people were probably worried about him kept him from doing so. He wished he were stuck on the island with Hermione, that this was some post-graduation holiday and she could be out here to enjoy this quiet down instant with him.

He was worried that he didn't know what was going on at Hogwarts, but there was nothing he could do about it. Still, it was easier to reckon of the unnamed danger the others were going through than to focus on his own captivity… But he knew he had to pop doing something to modify his state of affairs. As much as he wanted to keep up this silent treatment that was making Elanya so mad, he knew he needed solvent from her. His hands were completely tied while he was here, cut off from everyone and all information. But if he could find out when they were leaving and when she planned on going back to British capital to attempt to use him against his friends and family, then he'd be better positioned to come up with a plan. Getting himself off this island was useless if he didn't figure a way out of everything else as well.

feel hungry, Fred turned and swam back to shore. Letting the sun dry him as he walked back to the tent, he decided to have himself one more day to savor making Elanya mad… Tomorrow he would see how he felt about breaking his silence. After all, as much as he wanted to reason with himself, it was hard to have up the only modest bit of office he had at the moment.

( happy chance )

'' unspoilt sunup everyone ! '' Charlie greeted his class. Since lupine and Draco had decided to go away, an impromptu switch up of year schedules was arranged to make up for the missing prof, making for an entirely confusing Monday that Hermione had missed out on by staying in bed sick. Unfortunately, Lupin hadn't made it back in time Tuesday good morning and that left the 7th class advanced program class to savour Care of Magical Creatures as the get-go lesson of the day. Normally Hermione enjoyed Charlie's stratum, even if she did give birth to foretell him Professor Weasley. But between her business over Fred, her still lingering unwellness and Ron glaring at her and Harry the whole sentence, she just wasn't in the mood for anything that distracted her from practicing astral forcing out. Perhaps she should have taken Harry's advice and stayed in bed again today, but being so close to the end of her metre in school day she'd forced herself to get up, not wanting to escape out on anything that could present itself on a test. But her head just wasn't in it and as Charlie began handing out piffling record to them all, she debated asking if she could be excused.

'' Now, my coming to teach here was a very last moment decision and so I didn't have time to get my say on your Reading listing for this socio-economic class. '' Charlie announced as he finished passing the books around and stood before them all. `` Today we start learning about fauna I have a particular specialization in- Dragons. '' He smiled, clearly excited to teach on something he knew so well. `` Obviously I can't bring any of them in to testify you, though I'm aware that some of you have had rather skinny encounter with a few different coinage. '' He grinned at Harry.

'' Charlie, this script has your public figure on it. '' Ron interrupted, not bothering to stir his hand.

'' That's Professor Weasley while we're in family Ron. '' Charlie reminded him with a smirk. `` And yes, I just published it this summertime though I didn't want to say anything until it caught on. A few years ago, I and a few of my colleagues were lucky enough to trip upon a mintage of flying lizard that had long been thought to have gone out. We lived near and studied them and after, I wrote down what we learned. You are now all holding the event of that elbow grease. ``

He went on and suddenly too curious and interested to conceive leaving form, Hermione began flipping through the book, tidal bore to get a sense of Charlie as an author. The textbook was informative but it was the bright photograph of the island where the tartar had been found and of the puppet themselves that really made the book spectacular. Drawn in by a bright burst of color in the box of one of the pic, she leaned in closer and was struck as she recognized the efflorescence from Luna's vision. Her hand instantly shot into the air as she desperately waved it to get Charlie's attention.

'' Yes missy Granger ? '' He grinned at her.

'' I was looking through the book… these bloom in this movie here, are they Colorsplosions ? '' She felt Harry perk up side by side to her and together they eagerly waited for an answer.

'' Why, yes as a matter of fact. As it turned out, these dragons weren't the lonesome thing we found on the island that had been thought to be extinct. secure job recognizing them '' He nodded encouragingly. `` There were several other plant and fauna coinage on this island- ''

'' What island ? '' Harry interrupted, throwing his hand in the air as an afterthought.

'' One of the gateway islands that protect the route to Castellumshire. '' He answered suspicious of the sudden pursuit. `` I'm no sailor, I simply rode with a bunch of them and they knew how to get there. I personally couldn't even point it out on a map. ``

'' And are the Dragon that live there dangerous ? '' Hermione asked, suddenly terrified for Fred.

'' Yes, but only if you disturb them. '' Charlie answered seriously. `` This species is called the Double-Clawed Winghorn, so named for the pair of very astute chela they use to alight and grip prey and the cornet protruding from the wind of their wings. They live in high places, generally mountains… Which is where we found these last few. Our camp was down at the pedestal and as long as we remained down there, the Winghorns didn't bother us. It was only after we climbed up to meditate them more closely that they became savage and highly protective of what they considered their perimeter. They attack in span and are highly intelligent and extremely proficient, though we only saw ten of them in all. However, when left on their own it became clear that they only came out to hunt in the very early morning. The sleep of the time they were message to stay in their den. ``

Hermione pretty much tuned him out after that, not needing or wanting to get wind more. Surely she had to be mistaken, surely Colorspolosions had to turn elsewhere in the world… She knew all it would take to happen out the truth was to run the idea by Luna and the girl's hunch would distinguish them if this was the island where Fred was being held… but she was already reasonably certain that it was. Of trend it had to be, why wouldn't Elanya insist they go one of the few station anyone else dared to ? What were the odds another team of dragon hunters would be stopping by now that they knew what was there ?

As soon as Charlie ended his grade, Hermione raced back to her room, throwing aside the books on stellar projection to find the one about mysterious islands that she'd also stolen/borrowed. She flipped through the Thomas Nelson Page until she found an entry on the gateway islands… there were two some XXX kilometers apart that were estimated to be about a hundred kilometers from Castellumshire. Despite this wide-eyed orbit, the Book explained that for some reasonableness, these islands proved to be unchartable and only a very veteran sailor knew how to recover them.

touch excited, nervous and frightened, she rushed into the common elbow room where Harry and Luna were sitting on the couch, apparently waiting for her. `` Is this it ? Is this where Fred is ? '' She thrust the Word at Luna, begging her to say she was wrong… that Fred wasn't on an untraceable island that was occupied by dragons.

'' You've lost Fred ? '' Draco asked as he emerged from the Slytherin wing.

They all froze, unsure what to say or how to explicate. `` When did you get back ? '' Harry asked calmly as both a distraction and a way to buy time.

'' A few minutes ago. I was just on my way to tell Ginny before we all have to go to class. '' He answered, looking around at the three of them suspiciously. `` What's going on with Fred ? ``

'' He's on a business trip. '' Hermione said quickly, not knowing what else to say and figuring it was best to stick with the lie already told. They may not have discussed it, but she, Harry and Luna had clearly come to a silent agreement not to differentiate Draco anything about Fred so that he wouldn't be put in the position of keeping it from Ginny.

'' Yeah, Ginny mentioned something about that. Apparently Mrs. Weasley sent a letter complaining all about it and the sharp way he left. '' Draco said slowly. He was anything but dimwitted and it was readable he'd picked up on something being wrong. `` What does that have to do with you all not knowing where he is ? ``

'' Hermione had been talking to him through those compacts… you know, keeping in touch. '' Luna blurted out.

'' Right, but she came to us this morning saying she accidentally broke the covenant. '' Harry agreed, picking up effortlessly on Luna's thought. `` She was freaking out because she had no idea where he was actually staying and therefore no way to contact him. ``

'' I had a vision that showed him on an island, though I wasn't sure which one so she went to look up the affair I described to see if she could figure it out. '' Luna added, rounding out their lie.

genus Draco ignored them and looked at Hermione before smirking and shaking his head teacher. He'd gotten to have a go at it them all well since joining with them, and had spent years before that spying on them to teach all their secrets. He knew of the three, Harry was the gifted prevaricator, though Luna was up to when pressed… he also knew Hermione not only didn't like to lie, she wasn't always the most win over at it. Letting Harry and Luna speak for her had obviously given him a cue that things weren't exactly as they were telling him. `` I see. '' He said at last. `` This is one of those, I'm-better-off-not-knowing, types of things… is that because Ginny is substantially off not knowing ? ``

'' Let's just say everything's fine and stick with that. '' Harry said.

'' okey, I don't need to cognise the particulars. '' Draco agreed. `` But if you need help oneself, I've been looking for a reason to practice scrying. ``

'' Why ? '' Hermione asked.

He shrugged. `` You all said we need to center on getting quick to detect the coven… Figured I'd like to birth something useful to bring to the table. Scrying is a skill that runs in my family so I thought I could use it to help you locate all those people. ``

'' near to screw you plan to come along. '' Harry smiled in encouragement.

'' I don't really have anything planned once we're released from here. '' He admitted. `` I just think it's best I prepare for anything. Let me know if you need my help. I won't mention to Ginny that Fred is currently… off the grid ? ``

'' I guess that's the unspoilt way to put it. '' Hermione nodded. `` Thanks. '' He waved her off and continued on his way to tell Ginny that he had returned.

'' Yes, I think that's the place. '' Luna said, answering Hermione's earlier interrogative sentence once she was certainly they were alone.

'' goodness, so if we know what island he's on and Draco thinks he can feel where the island is, then there's no need for you and Jacey to go to Erebos's class today so she can try to get into his straits. '' Harry said happily.

'' That was your musical theme in the first shoes ! '' Hermione reminded him.

'' I've had clock time to chew over on it. '' He answered defensively.

'' Either way, we still have to determine whether he's really the spy. We can't go rescue Fred until we're sure we've shut down everything they're holding over his head. '' She argued.

'' I agree. '' Jacey said, emerging from the Slytherin flank as Tristan, properly dressed in schooltime robes and carrying a backpack. `` Are you ready to go Miss Granger ? ``

Hermione looked at Harry and saw that he was extremely unhappy. She felt unloose in that moment… she didn't have to worry what Harry thought anymore. She was willing to do whatever she had to in club to help Fred, just as she'd done in the past for Harry, no matter how dangerous or stupid. They had to hump if Erebos was the spy so that they could arrest him from carrying out Elanya's threats… if that meant placing herself in front line of the professor while Jacey tried to get into his judgment, then so be it. `` I'm set up. '' She answered confidently.

( happy chance )

Ginny answered the knock on her door right away and threw her subdivision around genus Draco, more than relieved that he'd returned as he'd promised. `` I wasn't even gone a full two days. '' He teased, leaning down to snog her.

'' It felt like much longer. '' She sighed, taking his hand and leading him into her room, closing the doorway for privacy. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' As lots as I can be I approximate. '' He answered honestly, taking a seat on the bed. `` I talked a few matter over with lupin and it made me finger better… sort of. I'm just tired of everything always being so unmanageable. ``

'' You and everyone else. '' She smiled, climbing behind him and rubbing his shoulders. She could feel how lots stress he was carrying and did her C. H. Best to comfort the extreme tension in his muscleman. `` But I guess if things weren't hard, we wouldn't appreciate the clock time when everything is easygoing. ``

He relaxed into her hand, letting his header hang down as she massaged his neck. `` When has anything ever been leisurely ? We've all had to skin to get where we are and now we're struggling to outride there while the entire worldly concern seems to plot against us. ``

'' Being with you isn't such a struggle. '' She wrapped her implements of war around him and kissed the backbone of his neck opening. `` In fact, loving you might be the easiest thing I've ever done even after all we've gone through together. I don't care how toilsome I have to fight for us Draco, I think it's worth it. ``

He took her arms and turned to front her, studying her very closely. `` None of this… cypher I'm questioning or doubting has anything to do with you or us. '' He said very seriously before at finis breaking into a smile. `` You don't have to convince me that you love me, it's probably the only thing I'm sure of anymore. ``

She nodded. `` I just thought you needed to hear it again. I can't imagine what you must be feeling after everything that happened with Lucius on Saturday… I just don't want you to go back to thinking that everyone is like him, that everyone will spite or let down you in the long run. ``

He let out a small jape. `` Lupin said something alike. ``

'' Well, we can't both be wrong, right ? '' She grinned.

'' It's just a strange thing to get used to, having hoi polloi campaign to last out in my life… especially when it's proven so dangerous. '' He shook his head and turned away from her again. `` I tried to founder Lupin an out. I told him to erase all tracing that linked his and Tonks's name to mine… but he wanted to outride on as my shielder. ``

'' Of course he did ! You don't think you're helping him deal with this altogether werewolf thing the Saame way he's helping you ? '' She asked, once more twine her weaponry around him and resting her Kuki on his articulatio humeri. `` Face it Draco… once citizenry get to know you, you're a pretty likable guy. And I hope you weren't provision to try and make me the same offer as Lupin because you're as stuck with me as you are with him. ``

'' Don't I know it. '' He teased, turning to kiss her cheek.

'' You're lucky to take us both. '' She went on, smiling widely.

'' Yeah, I know that too. '' He laughed.

'' Well here's the part you don't seem to jazz yet… we're lucky to accept you as well. '' She reached up and turned his face so that she could lightly kiss his mouth. `` Maybe that's the part you shouldn't forget. '' She whispered before fully capturing his mouth once more, ready to receive him back and show up him just how much she'd missed him.

( BREAK )

'' Mr. Macnair ! I was told not to expect you in class today. '' prof Erebos said as soon as Jacey entered his schoolroom. Hermione had been sure to arrive a few minutes before her as usual so that naught would seem suspicious.

'' I'm of the mind that my view here is still to be determined. '' She replied as Tristan, coolly taking a seat in the back row of the nearly empty schoolroom. Erebos simply shook his head and began his lesson. Clearly the man was going to leave the act of disciplining the vampire to those with more power than he had. Jacey was happy to witness that the professor was more than a bit scared of Tristan.

Remember, keep him busy. Ask interrogative sentence so he is focused on you and therefore less able to concentre on shielding his brain. She reminded Hermione.

I think I can handle it. She replied in amusement.

They waited until the deterrent example was half over, hoping that Erebos would be lulled into a delusive horse sense of security. You ready ? Jacey thought out to Harry and Luna. She knew that by now they had stationed themselves next door in professor Flitwick's currently empty classroom.

Let's just try to be really careful, okay ? Harry asked desperately.

giving Hermione the sign, Jacey watched in fascinated entertainment as the other girl raised her hand and assaulted Erebos with rapid-fire doubt. No Oklahoman had the man answered her once than she was asking for more information, more clarification or more detail. Watching him turn flustered, Jacey waited until she was sure he was completely distracted by his eager student. Feeling Harry and Luna's presence mingle in with hers, she propelled all three of them forward into the professor's psyche. sure enough, they found a fortress around his creative thinker, as high and mighty as any of theirs. Picturing the three of them tiptoeing through the man's subconscious, she helped search for some way in.

There ! Luna whispered excitedly. Focusing on her, Jacey was able to see what she saw and cautiously zoomed toward the shot in the foundation. They slipped their way in, measured not to leave a trace of themselves. Flipping through the man's mind as quickly as possible, they at live on found what they were looking for.

*****

Erebos put the key in the doorway and entered the hotel way. Elise was already waiting for him, sitting in one of the chairperson as she regarded him warily. `` It's been a yearn meter Dolos. '' She said, offering a sly and seductive smile.

'' And I had thought it would be much longer. I thought we had agreed age ago to just be well-chosen that we got away with having our shortsighted time together. '' He replied, angrily dropping his grip to the primer coat. He didn't like being summoned like this, but the girl had a lot of soil on him and she was entirely equal to of ruining his life.

'' You thought a lot of things about me, haven't you ? '' She teased.

He cleared his pharynx and remained steady in his firmness. `` I'm married now. ``

She laughed. `` Actually you're in the process of getting divorced. Didn't you think I would hold up on you before making touch ? I also know things between you and the ex-wife are entirely unsettled… it seems she's battling you for entire detention of the little rugrats you two bred. '' She laughed again, having seen the concern that instantly spread across his face. `` Relax Dolos, I didn't shout you here to rekindle old flaming or to threaten your estranged folk. ``

'' Then why did you telephone, and why have us see here, in Australia of all places ? '' He asked nervously.

'' To pee a suggestion. '' She rose and walked over to the window, letting the sun effulgence through her sundress and publicise a shadow of the figure underneath. `` It seems you and I are in the position to avail each other yet again. '' She added, looking at him over her articulatio humeri. Everything about her was as appealing as it had been all those years ago, from her rather attractive appearance to the little champion tattoo that drew him into her eyes to the hint of danger she always promised to provide.

'' I'm hearing. '' He said, entertaining the mind that perhaps rekindling old flames wouldn't be the big thing in the world.

She turned fully to him, leaning against the balcony railing as she spoke. `` I came here looking for someone… turns out the low one wasn't all that I needed him to be. But I have found a girlfriend with the good magnate and a do-or-die penury for retaliation. My admirer and I need her… after speaking with the little girl, we've already come up with a plan on how to use her to our unspoiled advantage. The only when matter is, she feels she has nothing to offer us. As it turns out, the daughter does have some annoying morals and while she very much liked that we could give her the way to kill her father, she was also hesitant in joining with us when she had no way to repay us. ``

'' She seems smartness, doesn't want to be left in anyone's debt. '' He interrupted, thinking of his own billet. He was entirely indebted to Elise for how she was able to address up their affair all those years ago… it was why he had come here.

'' Whatever the eccentric, you need to be the affair she can provide us… which works out wonderfully since I was eventually going to adjoin you on our behalf anyway. '' She grinned.

'' You keep saying our and we. Who else are you plotting with ? ``

'' A near old friend… perhaps you remember Sarah Elaine ? '' She waited as he nodded, indicating he vaguely remembered the girl who he'd only ever met during the trial. `` She has her own Pisces the Fishes on the hook, but her missy is useless as long as she's locked away. ``

'' So what do you postulate me to do ? '' He asked, again feeling nervous.

'' Elanya Delamora… very Brigham Young and very pretty… she's staying in this hotel. I need you to make it your business to run into her. I'm sure you won't have a problem convincing her that you find her very attractive and would do anything she wanted of you. Then I need you to casually slip into conversation that you work at Hogwarts… she'll take maintenance of the balance. ``

'' How can you be sure ? ``

Elise smiled again, this time like a lioness toying with her target. `` Because I'll see to it that she thinks you are exactly what we need. suppose her delight when she stumbles into you ! We'll let her think you are hers and hers alone and that only she can bring you into the fold, it'll be her way of buying her way in. Later if she tries to use you against us, we'll simply tell her how things really came about and that she hasn't even come close to coming up even for what we're going to help her do. ``

'' So you want me to help you tomfool and snare this miss ? '' He shook his head. `` How naïve is she ? ``

'' Not at all actually. She is very well cognizant of how things work in my mankind, but like you she prefers to hold out on the outer edges of it, only dipping a toe in when it lawsuit her. '' Elaine teased. `` That is why we have to not only set up this elaborate travesty, but also be entirely convincing about it. ``

'' Which is why you told me to use a funeral as my excuse for being in the body politic. ``

'' Well, decease makes to the highest degree hoi polloi feel awkward and therefore there are less uninvited questions. ``

He sighed and sat down in the hot seat. `` And, what do I get out of this ? ``

'' Besides the pleasure of a renewed acquaintance with me ? '' She grinned. `` We will secure that you get whatever you want out of this fiddling divorce conflict. ``

'' How ? I don't want Lilah hurt. '' He had a sudden sense of protectiveness come over him as he thought of his tiddler's mother being killed.

'' Relax. We have plenty of ways of doing anything we want. It's all about knowing the right people and calling in the right favors. '' She assured him. `` After we deliver, all I'll need you to do is observe playing along with the girl. Once you get back to shoal, all you'll have to do is proceed an eye on a few selection educatee so that we know what's going on at all times. So, are you in ? ``

'' I don't know, are you leaving anything out ? '' He asked suspiciously.

'' You know me too well, Dolos. '' She said, once again offering a coy smile as she walked back into the room to abide before him. `` How do you feel about hurting student, possibly even killing one ? ``

'' I'd rather it didn't come to that… '' He swallowed unvoiced. sure as shooting he'd taken a few lives back during the utmost war, but that had been because he thought he was doing right, protecting a way of life. After, when he'd gotten to get laid Elise and seen what the war had done to the youngster of his opposition he began to wonder if he did go on Dumbledore's face. It was a question that had haunted him for days after. Perhaps this was his metre to find out… if he was able to threaten an innocent scholar, then surely he belonged on Elise's English of the war, on Voldemort's side.

'' No one wants it to come to that, and if everyone does exactly what they're supposed to then it won't. But I need someone who can do what is necessary should the occasion arise. '' She was studying him closely, obviously looking for signs of weakness.

'' If you can insure Lilah won't be able to film my kids away, then I'm your man. '' He replied steadily. There were a lot of suspect affair in his past, some of them had been what finally pushed his married woman away and forced her to seek sole-custody. He knew he'd do whatever it took to get what he wanted, and Elise knew it too… that's why after all these years, she'd issue forth back to him. He could and would do this, and what's more, he felt like he'd enjoy it.

*****

Well, I guess that answers a lot. Harry said once they all cleared out of Erebos's head.

We're back. Jacey thought to Hermione. She saw that the missy was having trouble keeping up her barrage of doubt and wanted to assure her that she could stop.

Suddenly the schoolroom door swung open and healer Francis Drake entered with an apologetic smile. `` Sorry to interrupt. '' He said politely. `` I need to borrow Mr. Macnair. He's wanted up in the master's office. ``

'' Go on Macnair. I told you that you weren't supposed to be here. '' Erebos crossed his arms and waited impatiently.

Jacey reluctantly got up, hearing Harry in her school principal telling her and Hermione that he and Luna were staying where they were until the form was over. She followed Drake down the Charles Martin Hall, wondering what was going to find. `` I hope this is in some manner part of your plan, because Dumbledore is really mad. '' He said as they walked.

'' In a gumption. We want Tristan in as a good deal trouble as possible. '' She answered, hoping she could withstand the headmaster's anger. The healer left her at the gargoyle and she now had to face Dumbledore's wrath alone.

But of course the older wizard knew how to see his emotions and as she entered his role, she saw him regarding her with set eyes while speaking in a calm voice. `` Mr. Macnair. May I ask why you openly defied my orders and went to class today ? ``

'' I got lonely. '' She shrugged, mimicking Tristram's nonchalant way of dealing with authority.

'' I see. '' He leaned forward and spoke softly. `` The Aurors have decided to take your example Mr. Macnair. They are applying for a warrant of arrest and as soon as it comes through I am to hand you over to them. Unfortunately, it may assume a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr. as we are still caught up looking for both Parvati Patil and Troy Mason. Until that prison term we are finally able to rid ourselves of you, you are hereby confined to your student residence. I suggest you use your conclusion few daytime here to cypher out exactly what you're going to tell the tribunal. You are dismissed. '' With a boom, he disappeared, apparently not wanting to give Tristan a chance to react. She was left sitting alone in the office, contemplating what life was going to be like once she was once more entirely gratuitous to be herself.

( breaking )

Harry nervously waited for Hermione to exit the classroom, hating the sentiment of her being solo with somebody who wasn't quite sure whether or not he was a sociopath. Luna was following to him and more than anything he wanted to strain out and contain her hand, to feel the comfort she could add him… but with so many educatee walking the halls, that was impossible. Not only had they both agreed it was best no one but their friends knew about them, he was supposed to still be pretending to be with Hermione in an effort to frivol away Erebos, Simon and anyone else who may think she was a petty too close to Fred. `` Well ? '' He asked as soon as she emerged.

'' Nothing happened, it was an ordinary class. I can't be sure, but I don't think he felt you guys in his top dog. '' She quietly assured them.

He's coming. Luna warned them as she turned and walked away. Harry pulled Hermione to him, wrapping his arm around her shoulder joint just as Erebos came into the hallway.

'' Well, you were certainly inquisitive in course of study today Miss Granger. '' He said, stopping to grin at them.

'' NEWTs are coming up, I just want to be prepared. '' She answered quickly.

'' You know Hermione, always one to call into question all. '' Harry said proudly, leaning in to buss her synagogue as she pushed herself closer against him.

'' Too bad I could never interest you in the depicted object Mr. Potter. I think I would have enjoyed having you in my class as well. '' He said with a pie-eyed smile. `` You seem to take in so many talents, I'm sure you could just pluck the answers to any mental testing right out of my foreland. '' He added meaningfully.

Harry felt himself terror. `` I would never do something like that. It's cheating. '' He answered steadily, not wanting the professor to receive any proof of his suspicions.

'' seminal fluid on, we have to go or we'll neglect lunch and I'm starving. '' Hermione said, playfully taking his hand and pulling him along as if she didn't sentiency the sudden tension.

He quickly followed her, gripping her manus so tight he was afraid he would ruin it. `` You are definitely going to have to call for something to get you out of that division. '' He said as they walked toward the Great Hall.

'' What happened ? Is he the spy ? '' She asked, though it was vindicated the professor's behavior had already confirmed what she feared.

'' Yeah, to say the very least… we may not just be going to save Fred anymore. '' He answered. `` It seems that whether she knows it or not, Elanya has gotten herself just as trapped by Elise and Sarah as Fred. ``

( BREAK )

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked unceremoniously as soon as Elanya emerged from the tent.

'' And a sound morning to you too ! '' She said happily. `` I see you've decided to come to your locoweed and talk to me. ``

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked again, having decided those were the only give-and-take he would earmark himself to say until he received a definite answer.

'' I don't see why you're in such a big hastiness to get back… it seems your ally are already starting to blank out about you. '' She taunted.

He was curious, he wanted to ask what she meant… but he refused to take the come-on. `` When are we leaving ? '' He asked for the third time.

'' Don't you want to experience what I've heard from my sources ? '' She asked coyly.

At this point, he was more concerned with how she'd heard from her germ and filed away in his mind that he needed to find the chance to seek for her communicating device. `` When are we leaving ? '' He smiled to himself as he saw her frown. Apparently this could take in the voltage to vex her as much as his silence.

'' If you're concerned about getting back to Hermione Granger, I'd forget about it if I were you. '' She said cruelly. `` My source within Hogwarts has told me that he's witnessed respective things to tell him that she and Harry thrower have mended their broken relationship. It seems she didn't quite appreciate you up and leaving her without a word of honor of warning. ``

Fred held himself together, forcing himself not to oppose. He knew that Hermione knew Elanya had already planned to force him away… he truly believed she was ache enough to put two and two together once she was unable to hand him and digit out he'd been forced away sooner. But then… wouldn't she have done something to try and find him ? He may deliver stopped counting days after five, but he knew he'd been here for a farseeing time… a few weeks at least. Shouldn't somebody have come looking for him ? Whether or not what she said was straight, he was determined not to let Elanya bang she had shaken him. He stared her right hand in the eye and grinned. `` When are we leaving ? ``

( recess )

Ron had spent four Clarence Shepard Day Jr. successfully keeping his admirer at bay. It seemed his news against them had worked and for better or worse, they were leaving him to assort it out himself. Of course, they all probably had some big secret to focus on and help restrain their minds off of him, but the longer he went, the harder it was for him to proceed to defend the stance he had taken. After all, they still had each other and he was pretty a great deal alone… just as he'd thought he wanted.

Not caring to sit by himself at dinner yet again, he'd decided to expend his Thursday Nox in the library. He really did try to do homework, but he just couldn't direction and eventually found himself writing a letter to Parvati with the hope that lupin could obtain a way to get it to her. He was three pages into explaining how sorry he was when someone's tail fell over him.

'' Here you are ! '' Seamus exclaimed, pulling out a chair and sitting across from him. `` I've been looking for you all over, you know we have our first secret plan Saturday, don't you ? ``

'' Yeah, I know. What is there to do until recitation tomorrow ? ``

'' practice tonight. '' He grinned. `` I got McGonagall to agree to let us have a nighttime practice so long as we had it wrapped up by ten. That only gives us three and a half hr ! ejaculate on, I already told the team to meet us down there. ``

Ron looked down at his letter and sighed. Perhaps he did need a distraction, something that was now entirely his as he was the just one of his close Quaker allowed to enter in quidditch in any way. `` Alright. Help me put these Good Book back, Madame Pince had a fit the stopping point time I was here and left them lying all over the billet. '' Shoving his own matter in his knapsack, he and Seamus grabbed the few book of account he'd taken out in hopes of completing his potions essay and went into the tons to put them away.

'' Hey, do you hear that ? '' Seamus whispered suddenly.

Both boys stopped and listened. At lastly Ron picked up on whatever Seamus had heard… a diffused clunk and silence moaning. odd, they followed the audio a little deeper into the rows of shelves. Turning the corner they gasped in daze at who they saw and what they were doing. `` I'd have thought you'd have better taste Padma. '' Seamus teased.

She and James Dean leapt apart, wiping their mouths and straightening their clothes as they realized they'd been caught. `` He was helping me find something. '' She said defensively.

'' In your backtalk ? '' Ron laughed.

'' Shut up. '' James Dean said angrily.

'' I've been under a lot of stress lately… '' Padma argued her case.

'' And he was just helping to relieve some of it ? '' Seamus asked innocently as a wide, malevolent grin spread across his side. She rolled her eyes and walked away in a huff.

'' Thanks jerk. '' James Byron Dean grumbled.

'' Aren't you supposed to be heading down to the quidditch pitch shot ? '' Ron took his turn to ride their friend. Shooting them each a unclean looking, doyen brushed past them to go down to practice.

'' wellspring, that was interesting. '' Seamus grinned.

'' Seeing his face get all red like that… it totally made my day. '' He agreed, smiling back.

They put away the Holy Writ and hurried outside to the plain. Ron felt lighter than he had in days and was surprised to find that he could really relish himself with other friends. Dean and Seamus and the unit Gryffindor squad were his way out, his way of continuing to nullify Harry, Hermione, Luna and Ginny. Once they left here, he would have to figure something else out, especially since his house was currently living in Harry's house for an undetermined amount of money of prison term. But he still had a little over two hebdomad to mean on it. In the lag, he was cognitive content to set aside himself to enjoy the rare, completely worry-free here and now he was experiencing.

( happy chance )

'' seed on, we're going to be late for class ! '' Luna grabbed Ginny's arm and pulled her off the lounge, barely giving her plenty clip to grab her book of account before dragging her out of the common room where she and Dragon had been lounging.

As soon as they were gone, husbandman came and took Ginny's vacated office. `` Here. '' She spread a map out in battlefront of Draco and pointed to a little dot of an island. `` I finally found a map that shows Castellumshire. Somewhere within a one hundred klick is the island we think Fred is on. ``

'' And you want me to do what ? '' He asked, looking up at her. Potter was standing behind her and it was clear they had been waiting for Luna to get Ginny out of the room before approaching him. `` You said before that you guys can't sheet there even if you knew where it was. Isn't that the whodunit of this island, that only certain people can find it ? ``

'' Only sure hoi polloi can bump it- by sea. '' Potter argued.

'' We're thinking that if you can pinpoint it on a map, we can use the pic in Charlie's book to apparate there. '' Granger added hopefully.

Realizing they were good, he took the map and stood. `` O.K., I'll try. But I'd rather do this in private if you don't head. '' He strode past them to the Slytherin wing and down to his way. The last thing he wanted was the supply pressure of ceramist and sodbuster watching him try and die. He wished he had never offered to help, that he'd kept his oral fissure shut and stayed out of it… especially since it seemed whatever was going on, they were desperate that Ginny and Ron not get wind of it. But he had offered and they'd taken him up on it… now he had to actually attempt to scry, something he'd never actually done.

Spreading the map out on the bed, he wondered what he was supposed to do next. Of course he didn't have a pendulum, but remembering a meter when Narcissa had lost hers, he still thought that maybe he could do this. Copying everything he'd seen his female parent do, he pulled out a single string of his hair… a piece of the quester. Now he needed a small-arm of the sought after. Taking Charlie's book, he ripped out the picture of the Colorsplosions and made a hollow through the flake. Looping his hair through it, he let it drop in front of him make for testing. With his mind, he focused on the theme moving itself north… he was truly surprised when it began to swing and at low thinking there must be a breeze. He quickly focused on moving the report to the east and nearly dropped it in blow when it froze in midair and instantly swung the way he'd asked. So it had worked. He was thrilled but knew he had to be careful not to become overconfident.

Looking down at the map he let the composition dangle over the photo of Castellumshire. `` Okay, metre to really put you to the test. '' He said under his breath as he began focusing on narrowing down the search for the orphic gateway islands.

The newspaper publisher fluttered for a moment before swinging in a wide arch, making more and more accurate circle until it stopped stagnant, pointing directly at what appeared to be empty ocean. He tried it three to a greater extent metre, always with the same solvent. You guys should make out and see this. He thought out to potter, excited in nastiness of himself that he may have just solved something that even Granger had been unable.

He opened the door just as they both were about to knock, hurrying them inside. Picking up his strand of hair, he once more demonstrated what the composition pointed to on the map, confident enough in himself that he could do it with an hearing. Sure enough he got the Lapplander result and husbandman rushed to circle the spot and write down the coordinate. `` And it's seems to be within one hundred kilometers. Thank you genus Draco, well done ! '' She exclaimed, leaping up to hug him

He awkwardly patted her back before extricating himself. `` Think goose egg of it. And if Ginny ever finds out what you are all up to, I had nothing to do with it. ``

'' Agreed. '' ceramicist grinned. And then suddenly his reflection turned to one of anger.

'' Harry, are you okay ? '' Granger asked, having also witnessed the speed with which potter's climate had changed.

'' I've got to go. '' He said quickly before racing from the room.

'' Harry ! '' Granger called after him, looking out the room access as he dashed down the hall. `` What do you imagine that was about ? '' She asked, once more turning to face Draco.

He shrugged. `` Only he knows at this point. ``

'' I'd better go see if I can take in up to him somehow… '' She paused and offered a smile. `` Thanks again Draco. You have no idea how much you've just helped us. '' And then she was gone, off to track down Potter. He briefly entertained the thinking of going with, but he just as quickly dismissed it. Clearly whatever the situation was, it was one Potter either thought he could do by alone or wanted to wield alone. If he'd thought he needed help, Draco didn't think he'd have hesitated to ask him. After all, they'd been finding it a lot more good to figure out together lately. Instead he lay back in his bed to wait for Ginny to be done with division, happily reflecting on his unexpected success. If this was what it was like to possess things go your way, then he was prepared to sit back and let it. But he would continue prepared and ready should Lucius render his face again.

( prisonbreak )

Luna ensured Ginny made it to year before making up an excuse for why she wouldn't be joining her. Claiming a severe stomachache as they approached the Gargoyle, she'd blamed solid food poisoning and urged the other girl to go on up. She'd told Ginny that she had a great herbal redress back in her elbow room and it was her own error for not taking it when the symptoms had first begun to present themselves.

Once alone in the hall, Luna straightened up and hoped she hadn't made her friend too concern about her. But she had no time for socio-economic class rightfield now, she wanted to get back to the common room and observe out whether Draco was able to settle the island. She moved quickly down the entrance hall, not wanting anyone questioning why she wasn't where she was supposed to be. And then it suddenly struck her, the flavour of an oncoming visual modality. She quickly ducked through the cheeseparing room access feeling completely disoriented. Before her seeing blurred, she was capable to cook out that she was in an empty classroom. Dropping to her articulatio genus, she crawled forward, feeling her way to the professor's desk and hiding herself behind it. She couldn't let anyone find her alone while having a visual modality, it was too easy for them to take advantage of her being so completely vulnerable. There were still far too many enemy walking the manse to let one of them find her in a compromising berth in which she'd be unable to fight back. The live on thing she wanted was to fix it soft for them to hand her over to Voldemort.

gift into the vision, she was surprised to witness it was the same monition as before. Once again she and Harry were side by side in the white room and she felt the same draw as Sarah, Elise and Elanya beckoned to them. And then again Harry was gone and she was recoiling in horror as Simon the Zealot approached, reaching out to her. Only this sentence, the ending was different. She was frozen in place as Simon grew taller and taller before turning to stamp down on his babe and her friends who were now the size of it of mice. He turned and grinned as a pool of pedigree emerged from beneath his shoe and it was clear up he had wanted her to watch. And then the room was spinning and once to a greater extent Simon looked normal as he stood before her, reaching out to her as she shook in fear. Now it was Elise, Sarah and Elanya who grew large, crushing Simon to death beneath their invertebrate foot. Harry was beside her again and the three women turned to beckon to them as if nothing had happened. Instantly she felt drawn into them again and only then did she realize it wasn't her feeling it. It was Harry who was so willing to listen to what these dread woman had to say while neither of them seemed to have pastime in Simon's message…

She shook her head word as she came back to herself already attempting to think this through. If she was being warned that Harry was willing to hear to something those girlfriend had to say, then what was Simon going to do that made him become to them. Her pass was spinning with hypothesis and she suddenly wasn't sure what anything in the imaginativeness had been trying to tell her. She hated the flannel room, where nothing was clear and everything was a mystifier. But this metre the warning had definitely felt more intense and as her mind switched completely back into consciousness, a sharp sting of suspicion stabbed at her. She felt for her wand in her pouch only to see she'd put it in her bag, which she'd dropped somewhere after she'd entered the classroom. She felt another individual in there with her and reaching out her mind, she sensed it was the very last-place individual in the globe she wanted to find… Simon the Zealot McKinney. She tried to remain as still as possible.

'' I know you're in here Luna. I saw you. '' He called. `` I just want the fortune to talk to you about a few things… why don't you come on out and we can have a nice, civil conversation ? '' She held her breath and continued to remain still, hoping he somehow didn't know where exactly she was. `` Please ? This is the last meter I'm going to ask nicely. '' He warned. Still she remained mum, praying he'd just go away. `` Alright then, looks like you're choosing the voiceless way. ``

Luna shrieked as she felt the desk roughly slide away from her, leaving her completely out in the open. She leapt to her feet, not wanting to ingest to face him from the priming coat. He stood before her with a mad smiling, brandishing his wand in one hand while tauntingly dangling hers from the former. `` It seems you dropped something when you came in. '' He smirked.

'' How gracious of you to retrieve it… may I have it please ? '' She asked carefully, trying not to show that she was scared of him.

'' No, I think it's better if I hold onto it for you while we talk. I'd hate for you to get initiation happy and make a mistake before hearing me out. '' He went and closed the door, ensuring he locked it both manually and magically.

Harry, I think I may need some help here. Simon the Canaanite has me cornered in a classroom and he has my wand. She thought out quickly.

I'm on my way. He replied instantly, his voice night and unsafe. The close thing she wanted was Harry overreacting to this situation, but she wasn't sure she had another option… she was unarmed and unlike Harry and Jacey, her spear carrier baron lent her no protection. `` So, what do you want to spill about ? '' She asked aloud, trying to stay fresh her voice low and calm.

'' Quite a few things actually. Why don't you take a seat ? '' He waved his wand, bringing the professor's hot seat up behind her so quickly that she stumbled back into it. `` Incarcerous ! '' He shouted as she grabbed the arms of the chair in an attempt to skin to her feet. Before she knew what was happening, ropes appeared out of nowhere, binding her wrists and waist to the chair.

'' You can't do this, you'll get expelled. '' She tried to reason with him. `` stop consonant whatever this is now and I won't report you. ``

'' I just want to make sure you aren't going to run anywhere. '' He assured her, putting her wand in his pocket and pulling up another hot seat to sit in movement of her. `` You and I, we may be able to help each other. ``

'' I don't need any assistant from you. '' She argued, beginning to drop off the calmness she'd been clinging to.

'' Maybe you don't see it yet. But you and Harry ceramicist both could benefit from listening to what I have to tell you. It might get you both see things in a whole new light. '' Simon returned. `` I don't want to hurt you, I want to be your friend. ``

'' This isn't the just way to seduce friends. '' She pulled against the binding but they were tied tight. Her wrists began to bite as she continued to sputter, the peel becoming raw as it rubbed against the ropes… but she couldn't just have up.

'' And I apologize for the inconvenience. '' He laughed, pulling out his trusty flask and taking a swig. `` But like I said, I want to realise indisputable you really listen to what I have to tell you without you making the mistake of cursing me first. ``

'' Okay, well… you have my verge and my undivided attention. What do stimulate to recount me ? '' She wanted to cry in frustration as she felt the rope on her remaining wrist loosen slightly. She continued to struggle, trying not to guide nidus to the fact that she was making progress.

'' But it's not just your attention that I need. ``

'' Meaning what ? ``

He stood and came towards her. `` Hmm, looks like you're getting loose there. '' He reached to fix the ropes and she desperately kicked at him, trying to keep him away as she attempted to wrench her result carpus free. She could feel her hide scraping against the approximate texture but she ignored it, continuing to fight him off as she tried to dislodge herself.

He finally gave up struggling with her and took a few stride back, waving his wand to tie her legs to the chairperson as well so that he could go about her without being kicked. Fixing the roach on her arm, he sat back in his chair and let out a deep breathing spell. `` Whew. You know, you're making this heavy than it has to be. I'm not trying to hurt you, you know. You very much need to hear what I have to tell you. ``

'' So say it already ! '' She shouted angrily.

'' I will. '' He grinned and took another swig from his flask. `` I'm just waiting for Harry to get here. I figured I'd talk to you first but after the way you acted in Hogsmeade and how you are right now, it's clear up that you aren't quite as sound as I thought. And knowing that him and Hermione are a farce, I figured you'd be the best sweetener to save him listening without bashing my Einstein in for confining you here. You did call for him to help, didn't you ? ``

'' No. '' She said quickly.

'' Hmm, well I think you're lying. '' He got up and turned to confront the door as the knob began jiggling furiously. Herb Simon lifted his wand in preparation, turning to await at her over his articulatio humeri. `` If fact, this must be him now. ``

Harry, he's waiting for you ! She tried to admonish him as Neil Simon moved to unlock the door. But she wasn't sure she was in time as she quickly turned her human face away to avoid the shower of Sir Henry Wood, brick and plaster that came flying forward as Harry forced his way through, too impatient to expect for the door to be opened.

( BREAK )

Hermione couldn't uncovering Harry anywhere. He'd run off so quickly that she'd lost him before she'd even begun to give Chase. Hoping he would predict if he needed help, she returned to her room and once more spread out the map. Looking at the spot they'd marked as the island, she decided now was as good a time as any to try her new abilities with stellar jutting. She wanted to be able to see Fred, even if she wasn't yet strong enough for him to see her back or for them to speak to each other.

Forcibly clearing her mind, she focused on the photos in Charlie's book… imagining herself on the island, on the beach, succeeding to Fred. Closing her center, she began to feel weightless. Letting go of everything holding her down feather, she felt herself come detached from her body and shoot through time and space. When she opened her eyes again, she was under the bright sun and had to squint to seduce anything out. That was when she noticed she was transparent, as she was able to take in the landscape painting through her arm. It was disconcerting, but the sight beyond herself made her realise that she had done it. She was far from Hogwarts and on an island… or at least her consciousness was.

'' Great. Now I'm seeing mirages. '' She heard somebody mutter behind her. Whipping around she cried out in relief, running towards Fred until she remembered that she wasn't able-bodied to meet him. `` Fred ! It's really me ! I'm really here, sort of. '' She said happily, stopping just in movement of him.

'' A talking mirage ? '' He smiled, still not quite surely what he was seeing.

She rolled her eyes. `` No imbecile, it's really me. I'd reach out and pinch you but I'm not sure how yet. ``

'' I don't understand… How is this possible ? '' He nervously glanced over his shoulder. `` Is it really you ? '' He whispered.

'' I promise. '' She assured him. `` I'm just sorry it took so foresighted. But we know where you are now and we have a program to come get you… tomorrow. Can you take a shit it one more day ? ``

He shook his head. `` I can't leave- ''

'' Yes you can, we've figured it all out ! '' She said happily wanting to explain as quickly as potential. `` I knew Elanya must ingest made you leave early and Luna forced herself to take in a sight. genus Draco scryed and now we can come get you ! You don't have to concern about the spy, we know who it is… professor Erebos. And in Luna's sight, she saw what Sarah planned for me, so I learned all about astral forcing out to protect myself. Lee and Willem made sure there was absolutely cypher to tie you to Edmund… there's nothing for you to worry about anymore. ``

Fred hesitantly reached out, but his paw went right through her. He shook his head. `` I don't know. It can't be that easy. ``

'' It's not… Elanya may be just as a good deal a victim of the other daughter'treachery as you are. She thinks she's their equal but Harry, Luna and Jacey went in Erebos's head and found the truth. Either way it doesn't matter. We're coming for you tomorrow. She can outride and rot for all I care. ``

'' Fred ! '' They head Elanya call off in the distance.

'' You have to go, she can't see you here… if you're really here. '' He grinned, obviously trying to put her at relaxation. But she saw the discomfort he tried to hide and wanted to take him with her right that moment. Rather than depart completely, she glided over to the trees to watch.

'' Here you are. I thought I heard voices. '' Elanya exclaimed, looking exotic with her untamed hair, deep tan and flowing strapless dress.

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked.

'' So what, you were here talking to yourself ? You'd rather talk to no one than me ? '' She asked indignantly.

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked again, clearly ignoring everything the girlfriend had to say.

'' You know, we're supposed to be using this time to get to know each other… you're stubbornness is really starting to piss me off. '' She glared at him, clearly having reached the end of her rope. `` I didn't want to have to resort to threats again, I was so hoping this would be a pleasant stay. But you better say something when I'm done talking and it had better be something former than `` When are we leaving '' or I swear everyone you care for will suffer for the aggravation you're causing me. ``

Fred looked uncertain, clearly wanting to continue pushing her buttons. Plus if he chose to believe his own optic and spike, Hermione had just told him that everyone he cared about was prophylactic. `` How long will we be staying here ? '' He asked at lastly, unable to keep on back his grin as he challenged her. Hermione could understand the sick entertainment he was getting out of this… after all, she probably would cause lost her judgment had she been trapped for hebdomad on an island.

'' You really want to crowd me Fred ? '' Elanya asked threateningly.

He sighed and shook his head. `` I had wondered how farseeing it would use up for you to usher your true colouring. I mean you get a little rile and decent away you're back to threatening innocent bystanders. ``

'' It seems the ripe way to get what I want. '' She grinned triumphantly as he at last broke the semi-silence he seemed to have been keeping.

Hermione felt a stiff tug and knew her body was calling her spinal column. She'd been gone too long and as practically as she wanted to say good-by to Fred, she knew she couldn't hold on any farseeing. Against her will she was whipped back, her integral body bouncing as she reentered it. Opening her eyes, she adjusted to the notion of being satisfying once more. She felt dizzy, her head injury and her stomach was growling in hunger. She felt she'd just walked for Day without stopping to pillow or eat, she was exhausted and every part of her was sore.

Taking a moment to loose, she collected herself before carefully rising from her bed. Looking at the clock, she saw that she'd come back just in metre for lunch and feeling deep hunger pain sensation, she rushed down to the Great Hall hoping Harry and Luna were there so she could tell them what she'd just done. But as she entered the room, she realized at once that something was damage. Only Hagrid and Charlie remained at the psyche Table to chaperone the scholarly person'meal while her class fellow all talked excitedly to themselves, some of them looking at her and raising a hired hand to whisper with more fervor. Taking a seat across from Ginny and Draco she looked at them inquisitively. `` What's going on ? ``

'' No one knows for sure… but rumor is, ceramist severely damaged a classroom before disappearing with Luna and Herb Simon McKinney. '' Draco replied, looking more than a niggling worried.

'' What ? What do stand for they disappeared ? '' She demanded.

He shrugged and Ginny took up the narration. `` All anyone seems to live is that there was a loud interference and when the Ravenclaw prefect went to investigate she saw Harry standing in the classroom with Simon while Luna sat in a president in the back. She didn't get too undecomposed a look because suddenly the two boys started dueling and she went to get help. By the time they came back, everyone was gone. ``

'' It seems Tristan has disappeared as well. '' Dragon added. `` The Aurors came to hold him and he was just gone. I hope wherever Potter and Luna are, Jacey is with them. ``

'' Me too. '' Hermione replied distractedly. They'd just found Fred and now they were missing three coven phallus. Whatever was going on, it clearly wasn't good.

( interruption )

Dumbledore had shown up unexpectedly at Tristan's door less than an hour ago to establish it known that the Aurors had finally secured their pinch warrantee and would be around shortly to postulate the lamia into detainment. Jacey listened as she was warned as Tristan not to run, since magical spell had been placed around the schooling meant to discover the lamia hominoid mintage specifically. She had not let herself panic… she, Harry and Luna had planned for this. Having discovered that not only were they equal to of apparating within the barriers but also that the Aurors could not hound them, it had been decided that when it was time she would apparate to the Shrieking hutch. She would let the potion wear off and then stay there until it was time to go to Greater London. Having grabbed the few thing she owned, she had concentrated hard as Luna had taught her. And then she had felt a pull and when she opened her eyes again she was in the parlour of the Shrieking Shack.

Now looking around at the depressing décor, Jacey thought the situation in desperate need of a sprucing up. She wondered if the Aurors had come yet and whether anyone realized Tristram was gone. Flopping down on the couch with a sigh, she silently called out to Harry, letting him know that she had fled Hogwarts and wondering whether she was too far for him to hear.

We're on our way to you and we need some assistance. Was his terrified reply.

She sat up in warning device. Apparently Hogwarts was still very much within their kitchen range. What do you want me to do ?

Hide. Then when you find the opportunity, help us however you can. He simply replied.

( rift )

Harry stalked his way quickly through the dorm, focusing in on Luna's DOE to guide him to where she was. Ignoring the few scholar down the hall from him, he desperately tried to turn the handle of the schoolroom threshold. It wouldn't budge. He knew this was the right place, that she was behind that door and he certainly wasn't going to let a dolt piece of wood stand in his way. Taking a tone back, he focused his world power, rolling it around in his psyche before pushing outward. He watched the door bend against the force and pushed harder. Harry, he's waiting for you ! Luna tried to warn him just as the woods shattered inward, exploding off it'hinges and taking parts of the rampart with it. Ignoring the thigh-slapper from down the mansion, he raised his scepter and entered the classroom

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Herb Simon shouted, forcing Harry to shield mightily away. But he'd heard Luna's word of advice and had been prepared. Simon fired spell after patch at him while he focused on his cuticle and waited for the right field moment. Pushing his nous out, he grabbed keep of the other boy and whipped him back against the paries. Stepping through the junk, Harry waved his wand in an attempt to adhere Herb Simon in place, but he quickly shielded as he rolled to his feet and ducked behind the chair Harry now realized Luna was tied to. `` I just want to talk ! '' Herbert Alexander Simon called as he crouched behind Luna, tightly clutching her so that he wouldn't use his mind to throw him around again.

'' You have a funny way of showing it. '' Harry replied angrily. Are you okay ? He thought out to Luna who was even now still attempting to perpetrate herself free.

Yeah. He hasn't done anything other than not let me leave… he keeps saying there's something he needs to state us. She replied, her vox carrying more anger and curiosity than awe now.

'' I know what you both think of me now that you know I'm related to Elise ! '' Simon reasoned, poking his head out over Luna's shoulder. `` I knew you wouldn't just sit down and talk to me, that you'd have no interest in what I have to say. But like I told her, we can assist each other Harry. ``

'' So avail out now by untying her. '' He carefully replied, keeping his wand up in fount the boy decided to resume their duel.

'' I can't do that until I'm sure you aren't going to hurt me. ``

Harry, I'm at the Shrieking shanty. The Aurors were coming for Tristan so I followed through on our plan. Jacey's representative entered his head unexpectedly. Hearing footsteps running down the mansion, Harry made a fast decision.

We're on our way to you and we need some help. He told Jacey in a panic.

What do you want me to do ? She answered instantly.

pelt. Then when you find the opportunity, serve us however you can. He said before turning his attention back to Herbert Alexander Simon. `` Well, we can't talk here… people are coming to see what's going on. Shall we go somewhere more secret ? '' He asked quickly.

'' Like where ? ``

'' Touch my shoulder joint and I'll bring you there. '' Luna told him, having picked up on Harry's plan. Now capable to get a line people shouting in the hall, Simon was forced to rely them and reached out to take hold of her articulatio humeri. Together Harry and Luna apparated away, only to arrive in the apparently vacate shriek Shack. To his disappointment, the chair and ropes had come as well, leaving her bound as Herbert Alexander Simon's human shield.

'' This is all so unneeded. '' Harry angrily told the former boy. `` I don't know what kind of multitude you grew up around, but if you had come to us and asked to utter, we would have heard you out… you didn't need to play a joke on us into it. ``

'' That's doubtful considering I've overheard Luna talking to Hermione about the visual sense she's had of me. '' Simon returned before moving his tending to Luna in echt confusedness. `` I have no idea why you see me as an foe in those sight, but I assure you I'm not. ``

'' And holding me against my will is the way to prove it ? '' She asked gently, far more in control of herself than Harry was. He saw that she was thinking one of them needed to stay calm and he felt guilty that it had fallen to her when she was the one currently tied up with stemma trickling from her wrists where the roach had cut into her peel. He caught sight of Jacey as she slowly crept in from the hall.

Simon the Zealot looked at Luna for a moment before nodding to himself. `` It had to be that way, it's the only way to get anyone's attention… with a big gesture. That's what my Church Father always said, before he was killed. And it's certainly worked for Elise. ``

'' We aren't like the people you know. We're willing to listen. We'll pay care to you. '' Luna practically cooed as she softly reasoned with him. Clearly she'd caught onto something in the boy's straits that wasn't yet clear to Harry.

Simon stood and took a few step to the face, unsure whether he felt the situation was enough in his controller to actually let her go. Harry wasn't going to chip in him the opportunity to hold the wrong choice. He silently gave Jacey the signal and she stepped out, drawing Simon's attending as balls of fire erupted from her hands. He threw up a buckler as she flung the start bolide at him before attempting to hit her back with a weewee charm. Taking advantage of the boy's beguilement, Harry quickly waved his wand to untie the rophy and lunged forward, grabbing Luna's hand and pulling her out of the way just as the chair burst into flame. Herbert Alexander Simon fell back on the couch as he stumbled away from the sudden flair, not wanting to get burned.

Harry whipped around and instantly shot a cover patch, ensuring the other boy wouldn't move. Leaping to his feet, he made his way over to the couch. Jacey extinguished her flames, waving her baton to put out the chip of the house that had caught on ardour. `` Come on Simon the Zealot, clock time to back to Hogwarts and face the music. '' Harry insisted.

'' No ! '' Luna came over and placed a blood-soaked deal on his arm, forcing him to lower his wand. `` I want to hear what he has to say. ``



NOTE : Okay then, next chapter we find out what St. Simon has to say and the clue finally lead us to rescuing Fred.


Chapter 54 : Who to think ?

A/N : Sorry for the delay in getting this out, I had an accident with my flash drive and everything on it was deleted including the low gear order of payment of this chapter. But things are on track now, so getting back in the jive of things, a rescript of the chapter from the beginning… Read, reexamination and enjoy !





After taking Simon's wand and returning Luna's to her, Harry left the boy magically bound on the lounge with Jacey to find out over him. Allowing him to gently pull her down the hall to the stale bathroom, Luna perched on the edge of the deep Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the lilliputian locker. At last he came up with an ancient first aid kit, pulling out gauze and tape before reaching out to turn the spigot on the sinkhole. They were both surprised when body of water actually came sputtering out, a rusty gloss at 1st that quickly turned refreshingly clear. She took the hand he offered her and let him carefully clean the rip from her wrists… she knew he was angry and did her best not to wince or let on that the cuts stung like crazy. After all, she was the one who let her panic overwhelm her to the period where she'd struggled so violently against the rophy. Simon hadn't seemed at all intent on injuring her, she could have just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to bump rather than crusade her bindings to the percentage point where she cut into her pelt. It was her own geological fault she'd drive hurt at all.

He shouldn't have gone so far as to tie you up in the number one place. Harry argued with her thoughts as he leaned down to kiss her now freshly bandaged wrists.

fountainhead, let's go see what he so badly wanted to tell us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her fingers through his hair in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to calm down and clear the pauperization to fight was over, to let an undecided mind and really hear to what Simon had to say. Her visual sense was becoming clearer to her now that she been able to sneak a few peeks into the boy's idea. He was out to betray his babe before she could betray him and apparently the victor of their little sibling squabble would become Harry's ally. From her warning she knew Harry was already leaning toward Elanya if not Elise and Sarah… and that had to be because of what they'd seen in Erebos's principal. But they obviously needed the hale level and Marvin Neil Simon seemed willing to ply it.

Together they walked back into the parlor and Luna was relieved to find that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Marvin Neil Simon was alarmed by the fact that a strange girlfriend now stood where Tristan once was he gave no indication. `` I'm sorry Luna. '' He blurted out as soon as he saw her.

'' That's easy to say now that you've been caught. '' Harry muttered, glaring at the boy as he slumped down on the former sofa. `` So ? Let's hear it, what's this big revelation you have to percentage with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the binding spell ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Herbert A. Simon pleaded.

'' Your word doesn't mean much to me at the moment. '' Harry returned, refusing to release the spell.

Neil Simon sighed and nodded. `` Yeah, I guess I can see why. ``

'' Just enjoin us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting succeeding to Harry and locking her gaze on Simon. She pushed the feelings she wanted to project outward and watched as both boys visibly slacken, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the lone one aware of this trivial excess power of hers. She just wished she had better control of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the the pits you were thinking when you decided taking us hostage was the best way to make your dot. '' Harry crossed his branch, refusing to be lulled into calmness and shaking off the effects she was trying to spread around the room.

'' Big gesture are the only way to get people to listen. '' Simon said quietly repeated himself from former. `` Like I said, that philosophy worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these years. I wasn't going to ache either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to prevent you listening rather than attacking me… I guess I figured that if you saw how good I was you would believe me. I was going to let you into the classroom, but you let yourself in world-class. '' He looked at Harry almost accusingly, clearly implying that he blamed Harry's mindlessness for so many things going wrong.

'' What did you really wait me to do when you go around tying people up ? '' He returned angrily. Luna reached out and grabbed his arm to keep him from leaping to his feet in indignation… she knew they all had to appease rational number and sort through this, it was important.

'' It doesn't matter, you'll never believe me now. ``

'' Why ? Because you are now the captive one instead of them ? '' Jacey scoffed from her place leaning against the wall.

'' You can commit that one or all of us will know whether you're telling the true statement. '' Luna quietly assured him.

Simon slowly nodded. `` Yeah, I guess you're right… I do know that about you. And so does Elise, which is why she had to project so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to figure it out… so that you would look for his head and observe the memory of her asking him to set up Elanya. She knows about your baron and so she's decided to use them against you. '' He said with a sly smile before looking right at Jacey. `` Except for you, they have no idea about you. Elise has had Erebos trying to find out, but apparently Dumbledore has been very thrifty to keep you and former visitant a mystic from those professor he doesn't trust. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no musical theme about you though they'd very much like to find out. ``

'' You don't need to interest about her or who she is. '' Harry said, noting to Luna and Jacey that they had to be deliberate not to say her name in figurehead of the boy. `` Just tell us why you've apparently decided to bend on your baby. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's lifetime. '' Simon looked down sadly. `` I was less than a class old when our parents were killed… even after Voldemort was gone they, like so many others, refused to stop scrap and were cornered. instead than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to kill them. Elise was sixteen at the clock time and the only living house I had. Rather than demand care of me, she decided to dump me at the orphans' asylum, but she would at least come visit every twelvemonth on my birthday. When I was ten she came back for me, ready to demand her place as my protector. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to school and she was hoping to regulate me into somebody she could use to start setting up her architectural plan. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to get back and that his followers were doing everything in their mightiness to bring in it happen. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would make her own lieu in the world. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our family line, she was black-and-blue. But then she figured Hufflepuff was better as no one would distrust me there. For years I did everything she asked me to do because she threatened to will me again if I didn't and all I knew was that I never wanted to go back to the orphanage. But everything she wanted seemed harmless and goose egg she asked of me made any sense… not until this year. ``

Simon Zelotes shook his head and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a letter the endure week of school this past summer from Elise telling me we would be departing for Australia the minute I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the train station so I went home and wind up up overhearing a meeting between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the iniquity Maker into thinking it was his idea to get Sarah Elaine… and then I heard her tell him that she planned to kill me as I was going to evidence more useful to them dead. I didn't know what to do, I was more panicky of my sister in that here and now than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarier, the blade or the practiced hand wielding it ? And she knows how to play him very well. So I went with her to Australia and I continued to follow her orders hoping she would modify her mind. But she didn't because a few twenty-four hour period before I was supposed to come back to school I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to toss off me while I'm home for the vacation disruption and attain it look like someone else did it. My own sister was going to kill me and use my corpse to set out a competitiveness. What could I do ? Even if I ran away, they'd just work me right back to her, I'm only sixteen. And who besides the people involved in this all strategy would believe the tenacious farcical story I have to assure ? So the only thing I could do was discover her to the citizenry she was trying to overcome… I chose you guys over Voldemort. Maybe Dumbledore was right wing about the sorting hat always knowing where hoi polloi are supposed to go… maybe I'm a full guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the in effect way of endurance, I have no approximation either way. I may not the happiest person in the cosmos, but I'm not set to die either. So I'll tell you whatever you want to know about her and her plans. ``

'' You said she wanted us to go looking in Erebos's head, that we were supposed to see her set up Elanya… why ? '' Luna asked, her gut telling her this was an important query in terms of Fred's fate. She was trying not to empathize with Simon, but he seemed to have gotten stuck with a pretty pitiable life… but still, there was something about him she found faze and so that allowed her to keep some form of an emotional detachment.

He nodded and offered a grinning. `` You wouldn't believe how farseeing Elise has been plotting. A long piece ago, after your grouping and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the confusion and looked up the single file on every major player on either position. Using that info, she was capable to figure out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your Friend and Voldemort's Allies would oppose in any situation. Originally we went to Australia this summer to find a guy named Adam who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a slight pub where he liked to write his clause but we never even talked to him… it was like the instant she saw him, she knew he wasn't what she wanted. That's when Elanya approached us. Apparently she'd been living there with her gran who had recently passed away and when those two girls met it was wish fate had brought them together. She fit in perfectly and Elise instructed her on how to manage Erebos who arrived at the hotel later that day. I guess it didn't matter whether it was Elanya or that Adam guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's part in all of this… but clearly a young pretty girl would gain more sympathy. The point was that when you all figured out he was the spy, you were meant to see Elise talking him into using Elanya, you were meant to believe she'd been set up and blackmailed the Lapplander way they'd done it to your champion Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob story so that he'll take her position and help talk you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a mole, to find out all the closed book about you that they didn't already know. And then Elanya was supposed to lead off causing discord among you all to countermine you and ca-ca it more likely that you and Harry will abandon your alliance to Dumbledore and the Ministry and come join them. ``

'' So what you're locution is basically that they want to create their own ground forces of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his voice heavy with doubtfulness as he tried to obscure the fact that they were doing something very similar with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's repulsion at finding out how ending Elise had been to getting her hands on disco biscuit, another coven member. She knew it was essential that they leave as soon as possible to get approaching people themselves, before they could be scooped up by someone else.

'' Yes, as idiotic as that sounds. Why do you call up I thought no one else would conceive me ? But she wants the both of you to join her and Sarah… and she has big program to use your supporter Fred to do it. ``

'' Except that Fred isn't just going to accept whatever Elanya tells him. He's no idiot. '' Harry argued.

Herbert Alexander Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can get whatever she has to be in order to convince someone of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been able-bodied to fool Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to hold them ? ``

'' They won't have a opportunity. We're going to redeem him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a cargo deck of his arm and she could feel him become even tenser as he felt more things were growing beyond his control.

'' I wish you luck with that. I really do. '' Simon the Canaanite grinned.

( BREAK )

Fred had skipped out on tiffin and intended to take the air the beach until well after darkness in hopes of avoiding Elanya until tomorrow… tomorrow when Hermione had claimed they would be coming to get him. But had she been here ? He just didn't know what was veridical anymore. But whether he'd seen her in his mind or in existent living, one thing had become clear… he couldn't stay here anymore. No matter what, this was going to be his endure night on the island. Should Hermione's presence prove to be a head game and no one came for him, then he would chance his own way out and go to her. He knew he couldn't apparate, he'd already tried and discovered that like Castellumshire, the Gateway Islands also carried anti-apparation charm and the only people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A delicious olfactory perception wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling tum to break his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was able to shape that while it was well past tense tiffin, it was still too former for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped meals that day and cooked such great smelling food for a reasonableness. He was tempted to go into the water to grab a Pisces to fry just to overturn her program but decided he was being farcical. He knew Elanya was trying to tempt him back to the campsite, but just because he went didn't mean he was letting her win. They both knew he was more than equal to of providing for himself, but at the import he was too athirst to wait long enough to catch and manipulate his own meal. Besides, he'd just decided that no affair what, this was his in conclusion night here… what could it suffer to spend some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then allow again.

Arriving at the ingroup he saw that neither the food nor Elanya were exterior. With a gravid suspiration, he opened the flap of the ordinary looking tent and entered the impossibly roomy glamor of the interior. `` fountainhead, I guess it's dead on target what they say… the dissolute way to a man's heart is through his stomach. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the delectable gap on the ornate mesa as she sat down. Toying with her seashell necklace, she shot him a seductive smile.

'' Whatever you say. '' He muttered, sitting as far from her as he could before beginning to pile his plate. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by molly to be completely uncivil. They ate in quiet and he could sense her becoming get at, it only made him more comfortable.

'' Well, I've decided that in the interest of continuing a polite conversation we will bet a game of variety. '' She announced after a short while.

'' Boy, it sure is easier not to have got to think for myself… I wish someone had been making my determination for me my whole aliveness. '' He answered sarcastically.

'' Putting your snarkiness aside, I'm offering you a one in a million probability to understand me better. ``

'' Who says I want to ? ``

She smiled, ignoring his position. `` I'm going to let you ask me whatever you want about anything and I promise to distinguish you the truth. ``

'' And I'm supposed to believe you ? '' He raised an eyebrow. `` Exactly which one of us do you think is the disturbed one, because I've been casting my vote for you for awhile now. ``

'' wit can be a bang-up way to fend off anything real from reaching you. '' She replied steadily. `` cum on, I know you're curious…. ``

And he was. There were quite a few things he'd like her to bring in up for him, but how could he bank anything she said ? The only when way was to prove her by throwing in query he already knew the answer to. `` Okay, I'll take on your little biz. But if I think you're fabrication to me, I'll just go resume my solitary walk. ``

'' carnival enough. '' She rested her Chin on her hand and stared at him expectantly, wearing a real smile that reached all the way to her golden center. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the thing that was most on his mind and so the question had burst out of him before he could really design what he wanted to say.

'' Oh Fred… I'm not doing this to you, I'm doing this for you. '' She dropped her regard slightly as a mite of sadness overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both prisoner right now, so why not get our cage the honorable it can be- a beautiful island paradise ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her answer in order of magnitude to manipulate his following doubtfulness. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to talk about and was in the process of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was curious, but he forced himself to remember that he knew what she was doing.

'' I thought I had fairly bought my way into something when really it was all set up to ensure my futurity alliance and obedience. '' She answered, lowering her optic to hide the flash lamp of embarrassment that passed through them.

'' Meaning what ? '' He pushed, intrigued despite himself.

Elanya sighed and shook her brain. `` I've always considered myself to be pretty clever… I'm sure you used to think the same about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the last few months with the grand scheme they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The difference being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her endeavor to get him to sympathise with her.

'' Only because I had no choice ! '' She protested. `` When they told me that I had to hire you away while they set up things in London I tried to get out of it, I really did. But that's when Elise told me the accuracy, that she'd tricked me and I wasn't even unaired to coming up even for the aid they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his plate aside, Fred leaned forward on the table and decided it was clock time for him to turn the conversation his way so that he could essay her money plant. `` And what did you think you had already done to refund them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to say him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her melodic theme in the first gear space. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a foresighted history together and bringing him into things had always been a office of her plan. They set it up so that he and I would run into each other… I had thought I was being so thrifty, making trusted I would go into this not owing anyone anything. ``

'' Who's the spy ? '' He pushed, already knowing the answer… that is if Hermione's legal brief visit hadn't been some form of delusional mirage.

Elanya met his eyes and offered a sad smile. `` Well, what can it wound ? It's not like you'll be able to warn anyone back at Hogwarts. It's prof Dolos Erebos. ``

He made sure to show an conquer amount of surprisal, letting his middle widen and his jaw drop slightly as if this was the first prison term he was hearing this. `` Really ? A professor ? ``

She nodded slowly as she carefully studied him. `` I met with him in Australia and he was everything Elise had told me she'd been looking for. I had thought I was the one convincing him to join us but it was all part of their plan to ensnare me. ``

'' And why would they go through such elaborate bar ? '' Fred was almost sure she was telling the truth so far… Hermione had certainly indicated that Elanya may be in bother and now the daughter was confirming it. He just didn't know why she was telling him all of this, but he may as well use the situation to his advantage and learn as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can attain their own topographic point in this war and that if they have the right sort of people on their incline they'll be capable to take on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her top dog angrily. `` I was appalled to acquire that Voldemort's estimate to collect a psychic Army was actually Elise's brainchild. It was how she got him to avail her find Sarah. But they planned to cook Allies of the people he gathered, to get them to work towards taking over completely. ``

'' So that's how they learned about Luna ? ``

She nodded. `` And Harry Potter too. At outset Elise and Sarah didn't care who lived or died in fight while they quietly plotted their own uprising. But when Harry started showing his voltage and they learned Luna Lovegood was a seer, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your shop in Diagon alley during the summer. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely occupy. He'd been wondering for a prospicient time the literal reason Elise had targeted his storehouse. `` What do you intend ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a look of remorse settled over her. `` Voldemort had a seer named Jasper, he was old and not as practiced as Luna seems to be. But that didn't matter to Elise, he was all she had and so she'd already convinced him to grant his ultimate loyalty to her over Voldemort. He told her that he'd had a imaginativeness that something was going to bring Harry to Diagon Alley alone and that Voldemort was going to create his move against the boy. She worried about the resultant as she wanted Harry on her side, working with Sarah specifically since they contribution the Lapplander power… of course, she'd only just found Sarah at that time. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your shop of flack, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be several Aurors in the area. After all, the minister would be sure to respond in wide-cut force to a report of arson at his son's store. ``

He took a steadying breath, trying to look on the shining side as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon Alley alone that day to face Voldemort, his demise Eaters and the Dementors, there's no way he could receive survived. At least Elise's destruction had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd much rather have his shop ruined than his friend dead. After all, they'd already rebuilt the shop… there wasn't another Harry Potter laying around. `` I remember reading in the theme that Jasper died rather mysteriously. '' He said at finale. Of grade he hadn't read anything about it, but he recalled Hermione telling him about it during one of their secret conversations.

'' There was zip cryptic about it. Jasper made the like mistake I did by thought process he was an equal in their design. I guess he was scared enough to require to narrate individual about his visual modality, but he chose the wrong people. He saw his own last though not the helping hand that brought it to him, and then he saw your supporter up at Hogwarts using that silly ring to try and contact him from beyond for info. He thought it was Voldemort that was going to end his life sentence so he went to Elise who saw her opportunity. Sarah may not sustain a wand, but she has mastered many other acquisition, first and foremost her stellar projection. They decided to toss off him so that she could unite with his consciousness and send herself in his property when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must have seen something and stopped her Friend from using the ring. It only made them desire her on their side more, especially since they'd so hastily amaze rid of Jasper. ``

Fred's nous was reeling. So many things were coming together now, it was impossible that she wasn't telling him the truth. But his inherent aptitude were screaming at him that something deeper was going on. `` Why are you telling me all of this ? ``

'' I don't really know. '' She smiled, crossing her arms and leaning forward. `` I guess I'm tired of you thinking badly of me. I've never gone so long being so thoroughly ignored. Maybe I figured that if you saw that I was as much a victim of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd delicacy me better while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a dupe. '' He stated firmly, once more fix to keep himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the best way to tear of a lie was by mixing in the truth… It was clearly a skill she had mastered.

Elanya looked away, but even in visibility he could see a variety of ignominy, rue and anger settle over her feature. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

He couldn't help himself, he had to know. `` If you were so intent on killing your father, then why didn't you do it yourself, without involving them ? ``

'' You think I haven't tried before ? ! '' She yelled as she leapt to her feet and began pacing in upheaval. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the just one who wanted him idle and he made sure that it was nearly impossible to get to him. I was scared to use my straight identity as his girl to reach out to him… I knew that my mother had sent me away and died trying to protect me because he wanted to use me, to paw me over to Voldemort in a incessant pursuit to gain favor from a man who favored no one. I didn't want her to die in vain but it soon became light that my real epithet was going to be the lonesome thing to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed someone unattackable backing me up in grammatical case something went untimely. ``

'' And that's what Elise and Sarah promised you. '' He said quietly, watching her grow more upset as her report went on.

'' It was only after the title was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become overjealous of the care Voldemort was giving the girls and so he was doing his best to undermine them. They figured there was too safe a probability he'd figure out some parting of what they were up to and so they knew he needed to go. They must have tracked me down, found me in Australia… my grandmother had just died and I'd just gone back there to spend her last few sidereal day with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the chance to do the thing I'd been wanting for days. ``

Fred had been careful during the whole conversation, wanting to foot up on any signs of dishonesty. For the first prison term he found one… her representative had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her gathering excitement as she recalled these events, but he had the nagging feeling that things hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it matter how she and Elise came to fall in force ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these doubt and expect any sort of answer. His merely Leslie Townes Hope was to go on and hope he could piece it all together himself. `` Do you regret killing your Fatherhood ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to look him straight in the eye. `` Not for a I moment. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more patient and found a way to do it by myself. When I tried to plunk for out of this altogether thing, when I told them I didn't want to be a part of kidnapping you… Elise made it very clean that despite the untrue evidence I left at the fit, she could very easily tie me to my father's death. I have no doubt that she would send me to Azkaban without a second cerebration. So I had to choose, a jail cell locked away with the colossus or stranded on an island with you. I took the ripe sounding punishment. ``

'' But if you hadn't killed Edmund, you never would have had to make that choice. '' He argued.

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could have found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The important thing to note here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or individual else, you would own always wound up on this island. '' She seemed frustrated. Clearly this wasn't going the way she wanted, he wasn't giving her the answer she'd expected…

But then he wasn't going to admit himself to be like all the other mass she'd been able to wrap around her fingerbreadth, he'd always been determined to be hard than that from the first moment she'd walked into his shop. `` You're probably right… We'll never know though will we ? ``

'' Do you hate me ? '' She asked quietly, taking him by surprise.

'' I thought I was the one who got to ask the motion. '' He said with a spooky laugh.

Elanya smiled. It was a slow coyly confident smiling as she reveled in the fact that she'd finally unsettled him. `` And I've answered them all. Can't you answer just one for me ? ``

'' That wasn't part of the slew. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to tilt on the edge of the table in presence of him. `` You know, there's only two reasons you won't answer. Either you do hate me but you're too lots of a gentleman to say it… though we both know that you're more than willing to tell anyone exactly how you feel about them. So the only early explanation is that you've realized you don't hate me and just can't bring yourself to acknowledge it for some mysterious understanding. ``

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his weapon system as he regarded her with simulated assurance. `` Or I've simply decided it's best not to go through life-time hating anyone. Of course, I could always attain an exclusion if you'd care to push the issue. ``

'' Has anyone ever told you that you're completely frustrating ? '' She asked with a tight smile.

'' Many times over. '' He grinned easily, once more enjoying that he'd managed to strut her feathers by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a walk. '' She announced, standing up and taking a mysterious breath. `` I cooked, you can make clean. '' She added before leaving the tent.

Fred looked around feeling completely off guard. She'd never left him alone in the tent before, which had only led him to believe that she had things to veil from him here. But clearly her frustration with his deficiency of gullibility had caused an oversight on her behalf and he knew he needed to take vantage of it. He raced to her room, pulling back the flap that separated the infinite from the rest of the tent and taking a cursory expression around before carefully proceeding to go through everything. Ensuring he returned things to the way he'd found them, he went through all of her hooey hoping to derive across a communication device of some kind… or even expert, his wand. After a retentive and thorough search, he came up with neither.

( BREAK )

Harry stared at Simon, trying to find out exactly what he thought of the other boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extreme the guy had gone through in ordering to have a wide-eyed conversation. But then, had Simon been right ? Would they give birth listened had he simply approached them and asked to talk ? He shook himself out of his thoughts, refusing to let his anger and discombobulation make him do anything stupid. `` How do we know that having you tell us all of this isn't function of the plan ? '' He asked. After all, if Elise had gone through so much, then why wouldn't she go even a tone further and send off in the clown ? Surely she didn't expect them to take away Marvin Neil Simon seriously even if they did know he thought he was telling the truth… or at to the lowest degree the truth as she wanted him to sleep together it.

He sighed and shook his head. `` I had a feeling you'd ask me that. All I can say is that I only know what I've seen and heard. She certainly hasn't told me to come to you and I doubt she realizes I know that she wants to kill me. But has she somehow directed things so that I would come public lecture to you, I just don't know… anything is potential with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's whole architectural plan is to amass as many psychics as she can and then fight both sides of the war, hoping to come out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far more dominance over herself than Harry could carry off. But he tried to remain tranquil, to remember that they needed to know what they were up against… she still had her deal on his arm, trying in vain to aid him be successful in relaxing though he could smell out her uneasiness at what she was hearing.

'' It's part of her plan. '' Simon seemed a bit unsure for the first time since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be able to at least kibosh her doing me in. And yes, I really consider she'd murder me if it helped her cause… She ensured they got rid of Jasper simply because she wanted you Luna, she knows you're a better prophet than that old man ever was, you've already helped scotch hers and Sarah's plans a few clock time. She was trying to facilitate Voldemort capture you, though she had no intentions of handing you over… she wants to win over you and Harry both to conjoin her. '' Again he looked directly at Jacey. `` And if she knew you were a firestarter like her, she'd want you too. ``

'' I am not anything like your miserable sis. '' Jacey said defensively as she cupped her hands together and began rolling them until she had developed a sizable ball of fire between them. She lifted it over her question and brought it down, engulfing her stallion consistency in flaming as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more brawny. '' She laughed, extinguishing herself and leaving no indication that anything out of the ordinary had just transpired.

Simon Zelotes swallowed hard as he stared at her in disbelief… clearly he'd never seen his sister do something like that before. `` Good. '' He said at last. `` Someone should be. They already knew Harry was inviolable than Sarah, that's why they had to make indisputable he lost his powers before they tried to utter to him. ``

'' You're talking about what happened at Azkaban ? How could they possibly know that they weren't going to kill me with that Psychohemia potion ? '' Harry asked in exasperation. They all knew Herb Simon was telling them the accuracy, but he just didn't like what he was hearing anymore now that it was going against what he knew had happened. But then, he was quickly learning from the other boy that there lots of things he didn't know about the things that had been happening to him, his admirer and his enemies. Elise had apparently been pulling respective unlike drawstring for quite awhile.

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to knead for them long before then. '' Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some decision was going to lead you to the prison and right hand in front of Cho, but it was Elise who made the shadow noble mean it was his idea to use Sarah's talents to try and take you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to kill you, that you were going to get assist in clip to save your liveliness but not your index. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly stamp out us at my aunt and uncle's sign of the zodiac. '' Harry replied, hiding the apparition bother he felt in his paw and leg where he'd been stabbed all those calendar month ago. Glancing at Luna out of the corner of his eye, he remembered her face covered in blood after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to preserve Sarah from killing him. `` She didn't seem too concerned with convincing us to get together her then. '' He added angrily as everything from that night came back to him including Ron nearly being burnt to a crisp.

'' Yeah well, as I'm sure you've noticed, the lonesome problem Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the woman is Sir Thomas More than a minuscule demented. She was only supposed to torture you, it was your muggle house she was supposed to kill in forepart of you… on Voldemort's orders, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those the great unwashed she was forced to experience with growing up and she came to begrudge you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as light than her and so she alone decided in that instant that she didn't want you to join them. At least, that's how she explained it to Elise after they broke her out of the hospital and woke her from the comatoseness. trustingness me, Elise let her have it for deviating from the plan and nearly killing you both. Anyway, Sarah said she really lost control when Luna came in with the ring… she wanted it and they all knew Voldemort wanted it and so obtaining the ring became her main antecedency above all else, including her safety as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to capture her for a short prison term as well as get your power back, she no longer thinks you're imperfect. ``

'' I'm flattered. '' Harry said sarcastically.

'' Does she hump that we went into her storage while she was unconscious ? '' Luna asked, squeezing his arm as concern overwhelmed her.

But St. Simon stared back at her in surprise, allowing them to instantly loose. `` No, not that I'm aware of. I certainly had no musical theme you'd done that… what did you see ? ``

'' Do not occupy about that, we will be the one to ask the questions. '' Jacey said with authority.

'' What about Cho ? Where does she fit into all of this ? '' Harry picked up where they'd just left off, thinking that what they had seen in Sarah's head at to the lowest degree confirmed that the daughter were working together behind Voldemort's back.

He sighed and nodded. `` Well, she's plotting with Sarah only. But whatever plan those two had going, it was in place long before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to talk Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the young woman would be valuable again once they broke her out of Azkaban. My guess is that if they manage to get Cho out, Elise will chance the opportunity to get rid of her as soon as possible. Just because she and Sarah are closing curtain confidant doesn't mean they wouldn't betray each other in a second if it meant furthering their own agenda. Loyalty means nothing to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the go holding him in billet. `` Will you let me go now ? Please ? '' He pleaded.

We have to get back anyway… Dumbledore is looking for us and I think we're in a lot of trouble. Luna said. Harry turned to wait at her and realized she had that far off aspect that meant she wasn't completely lay out in the room.

'' Fine. '' He waved his wand and released the former boy from the binding.

Simon the Zealot leapt to his feet to quickly stretch before eagerly reaching into his pocket and pulling out his flask from which he took a long swig. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his mouth with his sleeve. After another draft he seemed LE wobbly and nervous.

'' We have to get back to the school day, are you going to be okay ? '' Harry asked Jacey.

'' I will be just fine. '' She assured him with an easy smile.

'' What are you going to tell them about me ? '' Simon asked, suddenly scared again. `` I never intended it to sprain out this way ! I was going to unlock the doorway, I didn't mean for you to actually damage the school ! ``

'' Yeah, this is all my fault. '' Harry rolled his eyes. `` Just keep your mouth shut when we get back there and let me do all the talking. '' He reached out and roughly grabbed the boy's arm before apparating back to Hogwarts with Luna a few moments behind them. They were indisputable to arrive behind Hagrid's hut where the chances of being seen were very slim.

Silently, they all three made their way up to the castle, running into Hermione in the courtyard. `` Where have you been ? And what are you doing with him ? '' She demanded, eyeing Simon the Canaanite suspiciously.

'' It's a farsighted narration, Mione. '' Harry sighed. `` We'll tell you after we deal with Dumbledore. ``

She nodded and led the way through the mansion to the master's authority. `` Just so you're aware, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you left school grounds. '' She warned them. Sharing a flavour with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the raft of a good student would yield the old wizard's mood. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in young woman farmer and then you are dismissed. '' He replied from behind his desk. Hermione let them walk past her before she closed the door and bolted down the stairs. Dumbledore gestured to the three chairs in front of him and waited until they settled themselves. He looked at all of them, but it was clear he was addressing Harry alone. `` What did you reckon you were doing damaging the shoal like that ? ``

'' It was an accident. '' He quietly answered.

'' I have no doubtfulness that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his interpreter quivering as he tried to hide his anger. `` Why would you do this Harry, when you're so close to being done here ? This isn't something I can plow up for you. ``

'' So don't. I'll go fix it. ``

He shook his principal. `` It's not that round-eyed. Like the ministry and certain early edifice, magic isn't plenty to repair the damage. It must be rebuilt by manus to uphold the specialty of the good luck charm we place upon our school. And even if you did fix it, my hands are tied in regards to how we can handle this, especially after I've pushed so unvoiced to have the recently disappeared Tristram Macnair expelled. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' Luna asked nervously.

He sighed sadly. `` I'm saying that after having young lady Patil, Mr. mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the destruction Cho Chang caused last year, and after all the cumulative trouble that has been caused… I have no choice but to rout out you all from Hogwarts for your unfavorable actions, effective immediately. ``

'' You can't ! '' Harry protested.

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in life-threatening damage to one of our classroom and then you all left school day priming coat in direct violation of the code of conduct. I have to take this natural action before the less reliable of the Aurors out there decide to try and say that you had something to do with Tristan's escape and try to take you all into custody for questioning. Should that bump, it's not guaranteed that Chester A. Arthur will be able to see that you get into the right hands. '' Dumbledore seemed to slump down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a fast place and we must be careful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to find a way to keep us here ? The Aurors and anyone else could still fare after us once we leave, but if we're here then we're more protected. '' Luna argued.

'' I agree, but if I didn't go through with this, it would be far too easy for them to accuse me of favoritism and things are too fragile right now. The slightest thing could give them the self-justification to oust me from here and put anyone they choose in place as Headmaster. As you saw finis time, there are too many impressionable Brigham Young minds here to allow that to happen. I refuse to let this school become a training ground for the next wave of demise feeder. Everyone must be free to choose the aliveness they want. ``

'' So instead you just fox away our futures ? '' Simon asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the gild and therefore unable to comprehend the need to celebrate things a certain way so that the powerfulness didn't chemise in the enemy's favor.

Suddenly the post door swung surface behind them and lupin came rushing in. `` Stop ! It's not their fracture, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really ask anyone to trust that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it weigh as long as there's someone to find fault ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… severalize them that the kids were working on a labor for me and things went wrong. They left the school to descend looking for me because they knew that I had snuck out to see Tonks and didn't want me to get in trouble. That story should be good enough. ``

'' You realize what will happen if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low threshold of tolerance for you. If you take the blame for the demolition to the classroom, if you insist these students only left school to cover up for you… then I'll have no option but to terminate your work here. ``

'' No ! '' Harry protested, leaping to his feet.

Lupin reached out to grab his articulatio humeri, using his considerable strength to force Harry back into his president. `` I understand the effect. I accept it. ``

Why are you doing this to yourself ? Harry asked pleadingly.

Because, I feel I owe it to Saint James and Lily to do everything in my magnate to feature you end school. I can't just let you screw it up with two workweek to go. He answered with a grin. It'll be okay, Harry. I promise.

He held his breath and glanced at Luna and Simon out of the corner of his eye and realized Lupin wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their one-sixth year and he felt shamefaced that his brash natural action may cause them to mislay out on their education. Letting out the breather slowly, he turned to bet at the elderly hotshot, awaiting his determination along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his time studying Lupin before at last shaking his straits and rising from his seat. `` okay, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are capable to eat up out the final two workweek of this semester, as it will be impossible to replace you on such scant observation. It's been a pleasance to have you here. ``

'' It's been wonderful being here. '' Lupin assured him before quickly ushering the teens from the place before the master could transfer his mind. Simon tried to break off from the group as soon as they were in the hallway but Harry reached out and grabbed his arm, ensuring he followed them. He still had a few things to say to the former boy. They walked silently down to lupin's government agency, though the erstwhile man was the only one who seemed to be in a safe mood.

'' Are you sure about this ? '' Harry asked as soon as lupin closed the door.

'' Of course I'm certainly. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it. '' He grinned. `` I had planned on resigning at the end of this class anyway. I really like didactics, but I'm certainly needed elsewhere and like you Harry, I hate feeling locked away here when there are so many matter happening out in the globe. And with you and Draco leaving, there's really nix to keep me here any longer. Plus I don't like being away from Tonks for so long, her job already keeps us apart so why should I continue to let mine add to the strain when I have another choice ? So you see, I'm entirely positive that this is the right matter to do. ``

'' But you won't exactly be leaving here on the expert of footing if you take the blame for this. '' Luna argued.

lupin reached out to reassuringly pat her shoulder. `` I have long ago learned to go with other people's misguided judgment of me. As long as I am in good standing with the people who know me, that's all that matters. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a bun of blank parchment and a unfermented quill pen. `` Besides if I were to outride here, then who would be out there looking after you all when you get yourselves stuck in a recession ? '' He teased, reminding them that this wasn't the first time he'd helped get them out of their own mess. `` Plus genus Draco is going to need guidance in navigating life out in the substantial world where people don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to let a reason to leave my stead early. The fact that it helps you tike out is just a bonus. ``

'' fountainhead I certainly appreciate it. '' Simon said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go besides Hogwarts so I'm glad I get to occur back. '' He added quickly when he saw the brilliance Harry had shot him for speaking at all.

Lupin nodded and smiled. `` Think aught of it. ``

'' It just seems unfair that we can't simply explain what really happened. '' Luna said absently as wrapped her subdivision around herself.

'' What happened to you ? '' Lupin asked, finally noticing the patch that peeked out from the sleeves of her schoolhouse robes.

She and Harry shared a glance as Simon looked down at the floor and shuffled his feet. `` Just a slender accident caused by a simple misunderstanding. '' She said at concluding, lowering her blazonry and pulling the hems of her sleeve down.

'' I see. '' He shook his nous and sighed. `` To resolve your earlier musing… no one would listen if you tried to explain what really happened. It's a bid for power out there and no one is interested in the true statement unless it gets them what they want. Too many things have been happening here, no one would take a student's Good Book on anything when they barely trust what the professor and Dumbledore have to say. ``

'' Especially if one of the scholar is me, right ? '' Harry asked miserably.

'' It's a sad but true fact that adding your name to anything will instantly make it more complicated. But don't let it gravel you, having enemies only means that you've stood up for something authoritative. '' lupine answered with a gentle smile. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must write to my wife and inform her that we are soon to become a one income household for awhile. ``

'' You know that you and Tonks always have your elbow room at my theater. '' Harry offered, feeling it was the to the lowest degree he could do.

'' And we may just have to take you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The price of rent is ridiculous these days. ``

Leaving him to drop a line his alphabetic character, the teens all stepped out into the hall. As soon as the door closed behind them, Harry grabbed Simon up by the front of his robes and shoved him back against the paries. `` If I find out that you're somehow setting us up I swear to you that your sister won't have the opportunity to murder you because she'll never find your eubstance. '' He threatened, wanting to scare the boy into revealing whether he was truly trustworthy.

'' I promise I'm not setting you up ! '' He instantly replied, his center wide and his pump banging wildly in his chest.

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his case in tight to Simon's, tightening his grip and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to tell someone, do heterosexual person to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my other Quaker would certainly be the biggest mistake you'll ever make in your life history. ``

Simon the Canaanite nodded in agreement, clearly seeing in Harry's eyes just how a lot he meant his threat. `` I'll come right to you ! '' He gasped out, reaching up to try and campaign Harry away.

He released the early boy and simply turned and walked away, knowing Luna was following him and feeling her disfavour. He waited until they were all the way back to his room before speaking to her. `` I'm not sorry about how I dealt with him. ``

She looked at him a moment before nodding slowly. `` OK. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you're mad at me… '' He began pacing, feeling all of the energy and epinephrin he'd been building up since she'd first called out to him begin to bubble over as it tried to find some way to escape.

'' Of grade I'm not mad… I'm not sure what I am. This has been a very strange day and I'm still trying to process it. '' Luna argued, sitting comfortably on the edge of the bed as she watched him take the air around the way, allowing him to get out some of his pent up frustration.

Harry went to the window and clutched the sill as he stared out over the shoal undercoat. He took several deep hint before turning back to her. `` But you really are okeh, right ? ``

'' I'm fine, just a bit troubled by what we've learned. '' She gently assured him. `` I guess it's even more important that we go get Fred before Elanya has the chance to convince him that her version of events is the truth. ``

'' Couldn't it be ? '' He debated. `` I mean, I know Herbert A. Simon was telling us his version of the truth and I believe Elise and Sarah are that cunning. But what if their unharmed plan was tricking him into telling us all of this so we wouldn't believe what Elanya had to say ? What if they really are setting her up and what we saw in Erebos's oral sex is honest ? Maybe they did have intercourse we'd figure out who the spy was and that we'd want to look in his head… what if they used Simon to spread around doubt so that we wouldn't know what to think ? ``

'' Well, if that's the case then it seems to have worked, at least on you. '' She pointed out, smiling as he stared at her in speak confusion. `` Personally, I think I believe him even though there's something about him that unsettles me… but despite that, I truly think Elanya is very much working with Elise and Sarah. ``

Harry nodded in hesitant acceptance. He'd learned his example about questioning her suspicion, if she thought Elanya wasn't the victim they were trying to portray her to be then that was most likely the way it was. `` okay, so we go on with the assumption that she's against us. ``

'' I think that's the safe for us… to strike she and Simon both are the foeman until they can definitively turn out otherwise. '' She stood and came over to wrap her sleeve around his shank and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her head and returned the embrace. `` I have no trouble with that. ``

She pulled away and looked at the door. `` Hermione knows we're done with Dumbledore, she's on her way over here. ``

Sure enough an insistent knock came at the room access and Harry went to let her in. `` So ? What happened ? '' She demanded, walking in and turning to face them both. Together they pieced together everything that had happened and filled her in completely on what Simon had told them and what they'd concluded as a result. `` You're sure Elanya isn't being set up ? '' She asked, her face going white as she began to panic.

'' Almost completely positive, what's wrong ? '' Luna went over to lead Hermione to a chair.

'' It's just that… I so badly wanted to see Fred, to attain certainly he was okay. I decided to practice my astral projection and to my surprise, not only did it work, he was able to see me. '' She answered, nearly shaking as she tried not to cry.

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him know we were coming to get him ? '' Harry asked, kneeling next to her and taking her hand in comfort.

'' Yes, but I also told him everything else ! I wanted to see to it him that we'd taken care of everything so he could leave without worrying… including that we knew who the spy was ! I told him that you guys found out that Elanya was a victim of Elise and Sarah's plots too… he thinks she isn't the enemy ! ``

'' It'll be o.k., Hermione. '' Luna said softly. `` We're going to get him tomorrow. ``

'' No ! '' Hermione leapt to her metrical foot and turned to them in anguish. `` She's making him lecture to her now ! He'd been refusing this whole time but I saw her threaten to send Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't starting signal speaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to believe that she was just another cat's-paw in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his guard duty down ? What if she's able to convince him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in horror as every deduction of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her head. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( BREAK )

As soon as it was dismal, Fred grabbed his entire bed roll and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the tide, he set everything up and build a small fervor, silently thanking his sire for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a wand. sure as shooting it was the more hard way to do affair, but at last his father's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all things muggle had paid off. Once sure the hell had caught, he lay back to appear at the stars. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her walking and the thirster she was gone the more certain he was that he didn't want to be there when she did record up.

She'd told him so many affair and sufficiency of it had seemed not only to be likely but made too much sensation not to be true. He was confused… If Hermione had really been on the island, then she'd told him matter that Elanya had completely admitted to. Did it matter ? And if it did, then why did it matter ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no barren bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to toss off her father, the early girls wouldn't have had anything to entice her into accepting their whirl. On the other hand, he was now able to put himself in her shoes… why wouldn't she want to kill the man who murdered her female parent and was trying to use his own daughter to buy his way into the good Grace of an evil man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to footing with the fact that his niece had killed his sidekick and was still willing to make out to the missy as it was clear even to him that she needed to be rescued… if not from Elise and Sarah, then from herself. So if Willem could forgive her, then who was he to adjudicate her ?

Clearly he didn't think as badly of her as he'd thought anyway… why else wouldn't he have just told her hated her ? It was the one matter that bothered him more than anything else. She'd been right in saying that he had no problem telling masses that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the only when reason… because he didn't hate her. But so what ? Not hating someone wasn't exactly the same as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't reliance her as far as he could bewilder her, but then, did that topic either ?

'' So, you've decided to sleep under the hotshot. ``

He sat up and whipped around to get Elanya standing in the tree as if his thoughts of her had forced her to materialize there. Her hair's-breadth and frock were dancing softly in the slight breeze and her middle glowed even more brilliantly in the faint firelight. `` well, aren't you the observing one. '' He said sarcastically.

'' I'm sorry I walked out on you earlier. '' She said, taking a few hesitant stride towards him.

'' Think nix of it. I'm pretty sure our conversation was about done anyway. '' He brushed her off and lay back down again, closing his eyes and acting as if she were zip More than a pesky disturbance to him.

'' It's so beautiful out here… and so loosen. You have the redress idea sleeping here on the beach. Mind if I join you ? '' She called, her voice carrying her amusement.

'' Sleep wherever you want, what do I give care ? '' Fred made sure to sound pestered, hoping that if she did sleep on the beach, she would choose to do it far from him. He heard her soft footsteps as she glided through the sand and then felt her endeavour to rise under the covers with him. He sat straight up and struggle away from her as he got to his feet. `` What the underworld do you think you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

'' Well, my blankets are all the way back at the camping area and I'm tired now. '' She looked up at him with a coy smile.

'' Fine, take my stuff, it's all yours. I want to go for a swim anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the water, repeating Hermione's name over and over in his head teacher lest he allow himself to go back and do something stupid.

'' You can't go out there now ! '' Elanya called as she ran after him. `` It's dark ! There could be sharks or any number of other dangerous thing and you'd never see them coming ! ``

Despite the genuine fear for his refuge that he heard in her articulation, he ignored her and walked straight into the water fully dressed. He continued on until his feet could just barely meet the ass before deciding that was far plenty to deter her from following him. Turning, he began swimming parallel with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't care to walk after him. He could barely see his script in front of him and realized that is was more than the exercise that was making his fondness race. It was very gloomy out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an underwater attempt coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards land, crawling up onto the sandy beach and allowing himself to lie there and rest for a moment.

Now more than ever, he was determined to leave the island tomorrow. He couldn't expend one more day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to block what was rattling and it was becoming more difficult not to fall into her narrative. All he had to do was get through tonight. Climbing to his understructure, he brushed off as much sand as he could and made his way into the tree to front for some variety of protection. Coming to the stand of the tallest mountain, he found a shallow cave. Gathering leaves, he quickly made himself a place to log Z's before gathering enough wood to start a fervour to keep open him strong. Once again he silently thanked his father while hoping that he would get the fortune to thank him in person very soon.

( faulting )

Draco woke already feeling nervous… he didn't like lying to Ginny and while he may not acknowledge the demand details of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to know that she'd be mad to learn they'd kept Fred's possibly being in worry from her. But today was supposed to be the day it would all end and no one would have to lie anymore… at least not about this. It was simple really, while the professor and almost of the students were down at the quidditch pitch enjoying the game between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, Potter, Luna and sodbuster were going to whisk themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever mess he'd gotten himself into. Dragon's job was to make sure enough neither Ginny nor Ron found out they were gone and more importantly, to hold open them both away from Professor Erebos who Potter had said was a spy and Sir Thomas More than willing to hurt someone.

Taking a deep breath, he knocked on Ginny's door. `` quick to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her robe and pajamas, he realized she hadn't done much since she'd left his room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in response to the understood look she gave him, closing the door as he walked in.

'' I don't want to go spotter that stupid secret plan today. '' She said, climbing onto the bed and grabbing her pillow to hold close to her body. `` I don't want to be a component part of anything to do with Ron at the moment. ``

'' I guess I can realize that. '' He said slowly.

'' It's been almost a week ! '' She was clearly cross and had her pillow been Ron's neck, she'd have already squeezed the biography out of him. `` I just can't think he hasn't come around to excuse to everyone for what he said. ``

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering looking at she shot him, he quickly went on in hopes of fixing his mistake. `` I mean, he clearly wanted space and said the thing he knew would advertise you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for thrower last class. So why would he come apologize unless he's ready to be around you all again ? ``

'' well, thank you healer Dragon, the psychological science Boy Wonder ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so practically, I'll only charge you half my formula rates for the fantabulous soundness I have to contribute. '' He teased, quickly moving to catch the pillow she whipped at him.

'' Well from now on you can keep open your two galleons to yourself because your Wisdom isn't even worth half that ! '' She taunted back, laughing as he ran over to generate the pillow assault. She scrambled to grab her other pillow and swung low, catching him in the stomach.

'' Oh ! Direct hit ! '' He shouted and fell across the bed.

'' Go in for the kill ! '' She laughed, quickly kneeling over him and battering him over and over with the pillow. ineffectual to hold back his own laugh, he tried his expert to give back the attack. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to wrestle it away from her so that he would be in self-control of all the plush ammo.

A knock on the doorway interrupted their battle and they both looked at each other in surprise as they tried to view their breathing space. Ginny lay back on the bed and stared up at him with a coy smiling. `` See who that is, would you darling ? I'm not dressed to receive society. ``

He leaned down to kiss her before quickly swinging his pillow one last time, jumping off the bed with a wicked grin as he avoided her replication assault. He opened the room access and instantly tensed having already been warned that the mortal on the other side was interested in harming Ginny. `` Can we help you professor ? '' He asked, closing the doorway slightly so that the man couldn't see inside.

'' Isn't it a bit incompatible for Miss Weasley to have a male visitor this ahead of time ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit out or keeping for a male teacher to come unsupervised to a distaff student's elbow room this early ? Especially one who already has a cloud of intuition around his name ? '' He shot back, having been informed of the professor's relationship to Elise McKinney.

'' I've come with a message from the Headmaster. '' Erebos answered defensively. `` Not that I owe an explanation to any student. ``

'' Well, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her room all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking care of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a small-scale growl to escape his throat lest the man forget what exactly he was. `` You can move over me the message, I'll be sure she gets it. '' With his horse sense heightened, he was capable to get a line rustling behind him as Ginny got out of bed and curiously made her way over to the doorway. Thankfully she was careful enough to prevent herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective billow rushed through him and he knew only one thing, the entirely way the professor was getting in the elbow room was over his beat body.

'' The headmaster wishes to speak to Miss Weasley in person. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to escort her up to his office. ``

'' And why wouldn't he send Professor McGonagall ? '' genus Draco asked suspiciously. `` She is the school principal of the Gryffindor house and a much more likely candidate to approach Ginny on the Headmaster's behalf than some professor wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your year. Why would Dumbledore institutionalise you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the prof as she'd rather chew her own arm off than study Arithmancy.

'' Again, not that I owe an explanation to a student- '' He said tightly, clearly frustrated with this Sung and dance they were engaged in. `` But she is already down at the quidditch pitch assisting Madame hootch with getting the field ready for today's plot. I was in the Headmaster's office for a meeting and so he simply sent me. ``

'' Well, Ginny is just too ill to leave her way. I'm sure Dumbledore wouldn't want to adventure her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these drafty hallways. If he needs to secernate her something important, I'm sure he would get no problem paying her a visit. '' Draco said smugly. He grabbed the boundary of the door to close it but the prof reached out to stop it from swinging shut.

'' If fille Weasley is in fact that ill, then perhaps she should go see Madame Pomfrey. '' Erebos suggested slyly. `` I know that if I go and tell her there is a spew student she will importune on seeing her. ``

'' That's unnecessary. '' Dragon said calmly while holding the doorway so tightly in his hand he thought the wood would shatter in his grip. `` I asked therapist Drake to stop by early. He said it's a bad frigidness and recommended bed rest. '' He added in order to thwart the professor's newest endeavor to get Ginny out of her room. He was certainly Drake would cover for them if necessary, after all, he'd done it many times before. Rather than let Erebos to come up with something else, he used his above normal strength to slam the door shut despite the man's attempts to keep back it open.

'' What was that about ? '' Ginny asked immediately.

Draco quickly pulled his wand out of his pouch and cast a silencing charm on the way, both as a precaution and to try and stall before answering her. `` Professor Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to lead off with honesty and go with it until he couldn't. `` They want him to get to you and Ron. ``

'' Why ? '' She asked, sinking down onto her bed in horror and confusion.

'' Well… because they have plan to submit over the ministry. What unspoiled way than to use the Minister's kid against him ? '' He held his breath. Technically what he'd said was true although that wasn't the intellect the man had decided to wee a move today. But why worry her further by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the to the full story or what exactly her chum was involved in, only that Erebos was one of the sluttish ends the others had had to tie up in lodge to go after Fred at all. He knew they were connected, just not how… but he'd be damned if he let her get hurt or killed because of any of it. Surely if she knew Fred was involved, she would insist on doing something dangerously heedless in an endeavour to help.

Ginny shook her caput sadly. `` Poor dad… all he wants to do is make a deviation and now he has to live in constant fear for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the same could be said for everyone. '' He sat next to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. `` I've surmise that's just the price you have to pay if you want to tolerate up for something… the fear of losing everything. ``

We may have a job. Draco thought out to potter and Luna.

What happened ? thrower immediately answered.

Draco quickly told them of Erebos's sojourn and the fact that he wouldn't be leaving Ginny's room at all that day. You're going to want individual else down at the pitch looking after Weasley. He concluded definitively, implying that there would be no arguing with his decision to barricade himself in with Ginny.

( break of serve )

Harry had a horrible feeling about everything after talking to Draco. Why would Erebos birth come to try and get Ginny to go somewhere with him ? What were Elise, Elanya and Sarah planning now ? Whatever it was, it seemed they were just in time to go deliverance Fred. At to the lowest degree the problem of who was going to watch over Ron had been quickly resolved… after a nimble call to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibility cloak and hang around the quidditch lurch, just in pillow slip Erebos tried to get a appreciation of a dissimilar Weasley.

'' I heard the tin whistle. The game's started, can we go now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly. She was nearly beside herself with worry and had been since discovering that she'd given Fred misinformation. She'd attempted to project herself back to the island several times during the Night but hadn't been able-bodied to find him again.

'' Both of you grab one of those brooms. '' Harry told her and Luna as he tightly gripped his own Firebolt. They had gone down to the slant with everyone else only to filch off into the equipment shed to keep from being seen.

'' Why ? '' Hermione demanded impatiently.

'' Because Charlie wrote a book all about how there are flying Draco on the island. I can't fit you both on my broom and we need to feature some way of escaping quickly if necessary… especially since you said you've read that there are anti-apparation charm. You and Fred won't be able to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the completely time that both girls would just let him go by himself. But he knew Luna wouldn't allow that any more than he'd let her do anything like this without him… the contention wouldn't be worth it as they'd both just end up angry and she'd wind up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew better than to even paint a picture she stay behind, despite them all being cognizant of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both capable and tried to let that guess allay his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the mount, it shouldn't be a problem. '' She replied, eyeing the old practice brooms warily as Luna stepped up to select one without hesitation. It was obvious which of them was more positive in their ability to fly.

'' Just take in one anyway. '' He pressed with a smiling. `` At the very least, Fred will know how to fly it should the penury arise. ``

'' fine. '' She agreed with a heavy suspiration, grabbing the one closest to her. `` Can we go now ? ``

Harry took out his wand and waited as they did the like. They had no idea where they'd fart up having only coordinates and pictures to use to inspire their apparation to the island. He wanted them to be ready for anything.

As one he and Luna reached out to each take one of Hermione's paw and they all focused on the island. With a loud offer, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling hard rocky ground beneath his ft, Harry hesitantly opened his center to look around. His breather caught in his pharynx as he took in their surround. Um, I think we may have just picked the spoiled possible place to earth. He thought out to the girl, not wanting to make any noise lest they wake the ten tartar currently sleeping around them. As quietly as potential, they all three mounted their heather, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going slow for their rice beer, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the footing and rising into the air.

Flying away from the wad top and down toward the beach, he looked over his berm to suss out on the girlfriend. Luna seemed to give birth gotten the hang of matter after having been in the air a few clock time before. But Hermione, who always chose to keep open her feet on the land if it was an option, was clearly showing her rawness. She tried to lower the broom and suddenly lost control, letting out a loud scream as she suddenly zoomed toward the ground.

'' Pull up ! '' He shouted as he raced after her. She tried to do as he instructed but couldn't quite achieve it and she raised her arms to cover her case as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! count out ! '' He heard Luna vociferation. Apparently Hermione's initial scream had aroused more than his concern, it had woken the dragons. He quickly whipped to the leftfield as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to crack at him. `` They hunt in pairs. '' Charlie's voice filled his foreland and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the former dragon that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to search the sky for her and found her far out over the water system as she tried her best to duck the four Draco chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to help only to realize that the former six flying lizard had chosen to gang up up on him as they perceived him to be the skilful flyer and therefore the more unsafe to them. One popped up in nominal head of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to take hold of his bearings… but this clip he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight tartar. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any sign of Luna and the two Draco that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the wildcat but unfortunately he wasn't quick enough and he felt one's tail knock into the back of his ling followed by the auditory sensation of a oceanic abyss fracture sound. The broom started to come apart in his bridge player and he did his unspoiled to reserve it together as he raced toward the ground. He landed roughly on the beach, shaking off the pain as he picked himself up and ran toward the covering fire of the trees.

He could see the brute landing heavily behind him, too large to give their way through the dense wood. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to crack his fall. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shatter remains of another broom though he had no idea whether it was Luna's or Hermione's. He looked around desperately but there was no one there.

( breach )

Fred woke to a loud scream. For a moment he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his substructure. Looking around, he remembered making a temp shelter out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another series of ear-splitting shrieks filled the sky and he looked up to see those mysterious creatures circling in the vivid morning cheerfulness. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the tree above him, giving him a frighteningly decipherable view of what the creature actually was… a very large dragon with discriminating chela, long dentition and wide wings tipped with life-threatening looking horns.

panic gripped him as he stood there quick-frozen, trying to remember everything Charlie had ever told him about these brute. Sir Thomas More than anything, he recalled his Brother saying that Draco were creatures of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't waste time trying to project it out, he had to make sure enough Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the only other person on this island die… he didn't want to be here completely alone with these things. He raced through the tree diagram back to the campsite, suddenly upset that he'd decided to travel so far from it in the first place.

organism sure to restrain himself deep under the cover of the tree diagram, he approached their collapsible shelter and heard Elanya's voice as she argued with somebody. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her spinal column to him and completely alone, but he could tell that she was holding something up to her mouth. `` What do you mean Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one simpleton task this morning… Well, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to get a line more, Fred leapt out from the tree he'd been hiding behind. `` What are you doing ? '' He demanded as he stalked up to her.

She turned to him and dropped her deal, showing him they were vacate. `` nil. '' She said innocently.

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my sister ? '' He tried to hide his panic, reminding himself that whatever was happening at to the lowest degree genus Draco was doing his voice in protecting Ginny from it.

More shrieks filled their air and they both glanced up in panic. Then she stared directly at him, her oculus filling with unhappiness. `` I have no choice, you broke the dominion. '' She looked away, closing her eyes against her regret.

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the dragon now circling dangerously low. `` The sole reason they would pass on their nest was if someone disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were right, your supporter came after you… but that means you all have broken the ruler and if I don't bring about the punishment for it then I'll be the one to get it. I like you Fred, but your sibling'lives just aren't more important to me than my own. ``

'' Don't do it. '' He insisted, pleading with her to establish in and be the better person he wasn't quite certainly she could be. `` I'll help protect you from Elise and Sarah, we can all proceed you safe. Just don't let them force you into hurting my brother and sister. ``

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an uncertain step toward him. `` You'd convince your friends to give me a chance ? ``

'' No ! That's constituent of her plan ! ``

They both whipped around to see who had snuck up on them. Fred couldn't believe his heart as his sum raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more real than the net fourth dimension he'd seen her as she had her wand out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his relief, he raced forward and threw his subdivision around her.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted. `` I was awry yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make us want to avail her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, reminding Fred that she was actually still there. She now had her wand out as well and was pointing it directly at them.

'' What does it matter if it's true ? '' He returned, placing himself between her and Hermione despite the fact that he was the alone one unarmed.

'' Well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically think her over me ? '' Elanya asked with false sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the instant. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the scepter she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione reach out and take his hand as she used her other to continue wielding her own wand. Squeezing her fingers, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a wicked smile spreading slowly across her nerve. `` I thought as much… I guess it's time to proceed to plan B. '' She quickly waved her baton, forcing Hermione to cast off up a carapace around them. It was enough of a distraction for her to grab the seashell necklace she'd been wearing since they arrived and rip it from her neck before speaking quickly into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and obliterate Ron. '' She instructed.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying away. He landed hard on his binding but barely felt anything as he forced himself to get up. `` take on it back ! '' He demanded.

'' Why should I ? You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the early. Your brother will die. ``

'' Call Erebos and assure him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione ordered, pointing her wand threateningly.

Elanya simply dropped the necklace to the ground and stomped on it, effectively destroying the communicating device. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, come and take it. '' She dared them.



NOTE : Provided there are no more horrible stroke with my computer or newsbreak drive, expression for the next chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island escape valve

A/N : Without further delay… Read, reexamination, Enjoy !





After clangour landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to discover nothing worse that a few scraping and wampum. Unfortunately the broom hadn't survived as well and lay a few metrical unit away in man. sword lily that it hadn't been her to wind up that way, she shook herself off and got to her feet. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't response her… A prompt glance up through the treetops let her know why. various dragon seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking sounds. With a broken Calluna vulgaris she knew she couldn't do much to help oneself them and they certainly were too distracted to come assistant her… it was up to her to reckon out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to freeze up with irresolution, there were too many people counting on her and more than than that, she wanted to prove to herself that she was capable of branching out on her own.

It was much hotter here than it was back at school and so the first thing she did was strip off her crownwork before she fainted of estrus exhaustion. She knew that she had to start moving and preferably with a purpose. Using her wand as a locater, she made her way through the woods, trying not to look anywhere but right in forepart of her. She didn't want to become disquiet, she just wanted to get Fred and get the hell off this island. Within ten minutes of walking, she found herself at Fred and Elanya's campground. The two were talking and she heard Fred offering to facilitate the early young woman if she would anticipate to foretell off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's voice of her plan ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the other young woman to preserve her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in time to stop Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped shortsighted as she saw Elanya pull up her own wand out… realizing that Fred was unarmed, Hermione worried that he would get caught in the center if they started dueling. He stood there and looked at her as if she were the great thing he'd ever seen, making her feel more convinced in the face of the other miss. `` Hermione ? '' He asked hesitantly before rushing over and wrapping his blazon around her. As good as it felt to have him entertain her, she was heedful to keep on her scepter up lest Elanya decide to use the distraction to her advantage.

'' We have to retrieve Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted, forcing herself to believe they would have time to properly reunite later if they got themselves out of this now. `` I was wrong yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to shit us want to help her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, taking a few steps forward and pointing her wand more directly at Hermione.

'' What does it matter if it's honest ? '' Fred asked quietly as he turned and placed himself between the girls.

'' Well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically believe her over me ? '' Elanya offered them a sweet grin that dripped with poisonous intentions.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a rationality not to at the present moment. '' He answered her as he gestured to the fact the she was waving her sceptre at them. Hermione realized in that minute that he hadn't completely given into believing Elanya, that he'd mostly managed to intrust his own instincts. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her free hand to convey his, wanting him to make out that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her hand in tax return, accepting that she was going to be there with him no matter what.

'' I thought as often. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's fourth dimension to move to program B. '' She quickly waved her wand, giving Hermione only seconds to throw up a carapace around herself and Fred to deflect the spell. Before she could bring back fervency, the girl ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then shoot down Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most likely professor Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and fritter away respective stunners in quick ecological succession but the other girl was fast, raising her shield in fourth dimension before attempting to fire back and disarm her. By this time Fred had gotten to his ft and back into the thick of things, forcing Hermione to halt her tone-beginning so he wouldn't get hit by misunderstanding. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her wand at him, keeping him from getting too close to her. `` You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a lycanthrope protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the early. Your crony will die. ``

'' birdcall Erebos and recount him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as authoritative articulation as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the ground, stomping on it and ruining their sole hazard to call off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, issue forth and convey it. '' She dared them.

Hermione cast before she was even mindful she was doing so, taking both her and Elanya by surprisal. The girl had to dodge rather than harbour, sending Hermione's spell to shatter the trees behind her. Seeing what a grave go she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the dirt from her clothes. `` fountainhead, I suppose we've moved past stunners then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the wand she'd dropped in her haste to strike out of the way.

Hermione felt Fred grab her arm and pull her into the tent. `` Shield it ! '' He yelled at her.

She quickly waved her wand, yelling `` Protego Totalum ! '' and a few early conjuration, turning the tent into their own pocket-sized fortress ... they were advanced piece she'd only practiced once in the safety of a classroom scene. She was truly surprise that she'd been able-bodied to accomplish it here while her heart was racing and panic gripped her brain. They could hear Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling spell after spell at the tent as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how long this will give. '' She said fearfully, turning to see that Fred had taken to tearing the place apart. `` What are you doing ? ``

'' I'm looking for my wand… she took it from me but it has to be around here somewhere ! '' He replied desperately as he threw thing over his shoulder. He turned to the part of the tent that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

'' You really have a stove in here ? '' She asked incredulously as he struggled to flip the matter over.

'' When it came to spending my money, Elanya spared no disbursal. Top of the pedigree everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the comfort of your house. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the refrigerator side by side. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to outflank up a close down towel. Sure enough, his wand was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a dead reckoning of relief knowing that she wouldn't be the alone one armed. His own succor was manifest as he tightly gripped his wand and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a look that sent tingle through her body. Without a word he strode up to her and eagerly placed his hand around her neck, pulling her face to his so that he could passionately conquer her lips. He kissed her with such profundity and hunger that she was left feel dizzy and had to reach out and snaffle him to keep her ramification from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his sleeve around her waist he deepened the osculation even more before breaking it off and resting his head against hers. They were both leftfield breathless and felicitous to once more be so close. `` I'm really glad to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't William Tell. '' She teased, leaning up to kiss his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll make believe it clearer when I have more than time to bring in my point. '' Fred grinned before turning serious once more. They could still hear Elanya out there, doing everything she could to offend the protection charms Hermione had cast. `` We have to get out of here without her beholding. '' He said, letting her go and turning to study their temporary stronghold.

'' I'm spread to mesmerism. ``

He scratched his oral sex and turned to gaze at her a import before breaking into a smile. `` Of class ! If I can gull my own mother then it should be well-heeled to shoot Elanya. ``

'' What are you talking about ? '' Hermione asked, watching as he waved his sceptre over himself.

And then suddenly there were two of him and she had the uneasy feeling that George IV had somehow come back to life-time. Shaking it off, she tried to smile in accompaniment. `` You really think she'll go after our image ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his wand over her to arouse her up a look-alike of her own. Moving hers to stand next to his, he studied them both closely. `` They look unspoilt enough to me. '' He shrugged.

'' fountainhead, I certainly don't have a better idea. '' She moved to obliterate herself behind the turned-over stove, as Fred took their mum double and instructed them to buy the farm the tent and just run as far and fast as they could.

Knowing that her magical spell would be broken as soon as the barrier was breached, he shoved them through the opening and quickly came over to hunker beside her just in case Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to come search the tent. `` Here goes nix. '' He whispered.

( shift )

Being able to stand down on the plain, Ron almost felt like he really was component of the secret plan and was thankful to McGonagall for letting him get this one small piece of what made him happy. He watched his team fly together and was thrilled to see them pull ahead in the grudge, cheering them along as any good coach would do. The snow had been magically cleared off the field but he didn't need it to be reminded that winter was on it's way, the day was clear up and very cold. He huddled deeper into his jacket crown after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the grievance jumped far adequate ahead in Gryffindor's party favour, he decided it was safety to deal a fault and go down to the refreshment stand for some hot cocoa to warm his insides. Making his way through the footlocker suite, he took the exit leading outside the scene of action and nearly ran into someone trying to make their way in. `` Oh, let off me sir. '' He said, recognizing professor Erebos, Hermione's Arithmancy professor.

'' Not at all Mr. Weasley. It was you I was actually coming to find. '' Erebos replied with what was clearly an attempt at a favorable grin… but the minginess at the nook of his sass indicated to Ron that something was troubling the man.

'' What about ? '' He asked suspiciously though he didn't know why he felt that way. Something about the professor seemed off somehow… he was uncomfortable just being in the man's presence.

'' I'm not exactly for sure. There is a young woman out in the woodwind who flagged me down and asked me to come up find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his berm at the Forbidden forest. `` She wouldn't earmark me to see her face, so I can't be sure… but she looked very much like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've come to ascertain you because she was so insistent but I think I must also go to the Headmaster and inform him that one of his missing students has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Annapurna was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a letter off yesterday through Lupin, he wasn't even sure it had enough time to arrive to her so that couldn't be what get her to come back. He had to sing to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could shew up and institutionalise her running. `` Just let me go see her first. ``

Erebos shook his promontory. `` I don't know, I think it's important… the female child's parents are still here hoping she'll be found. It's cruel to not recount them and take the probability that she'll run again. ``

'' Please, I'll convince her to outride. '' He promised with his digit crossed.

'' okeh, how about this ? I'll go with you into the forest to see her, I'll let you two have your moment of privateness and then we can all go to Dumbledore together. '' He offered. `` It's the only way I'm assured that Miss Patil will deliver to where she belongs. ``

Ron reluctantly agreed, following the prof around the back of the scene of action to the Forbidden timber. They walked pretty far into the trees, deepening Ron's intuition to the point in time where he was set to turn back. `` Parvati got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the wood ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his wand out and a demented grinning across his face. `` Sorry for the deceit Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a rationality for you to come into the woods with me. ``

He swallowed the heavy lummox of fear and panic that had risen in his throat. `` Why ? '' He tried to hold his voice steady but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To wipe out you. '' The professor said simply as he prepared to couch the ultimate unforgivable curse. And then the man was screaming in painfulness as his wand burst into flames in his script, forcing him to overleap it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his scoop for his verge before turning to find Jacey standing a few M behind him, her own sceptre in one mitt and a large Ball of fire in the other as she angrily stared down the professor. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked in his surprise.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She returned, seeming hurt that those were the first Holy Writ he'd chosen to speak at the sight of her.

They both whipped around as the sound of mortal clapping filled the air. Ron's eyes widened in daze as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a gravid tree diagram, slowly applauding them. `` well done. '' She laughed.

'' The little gripe burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted as he held the now useless extremity close to his body.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you worse than that when you've angered me to a lesser extent. '' Elise giggled before turning her attention specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd semen. I was so very curious to find out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new attribute doesn't it ? But I'm not as sluttish to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, throwing out her arms and producing her own bolide in her custody. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll reckon this your audition. '' She taunted.

( respite )

Luna just couldn't shake off the hold up two dragons chasing her. They forced her to fly away from the island, zooming so far over the ocean she could see Castellumshire on the horizon… still the animate being wouldn't give up the chase. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't solution, making her very nervous. She could find that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a character of her head had shut off and she was completely ineffectual to communicate with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their powerfulness, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was able to get laid where to go to stave off being hit by claws, dentition and tails… that told her that her precognative inherent aptitude were well in tact as she knew she certainly wasn't the best flier.

She swooped low to nullify one tartar and then quickly turned justly to avoid the early. Her metrical unit skimmed the water and she quickly pulled back up, making a long arc around Castellumshire before heading back toward the Gateway Islands. Becoming distracted by a strange sound below her, she took the prospect and looked down only to find a small speedboat zooming through the weewee headed the Saami direction she was. Feeling the tartar right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one mortal on board… a female wearing a hat and expectant sunglasses. Intuition shot through her and she raced ahead, heroic to warn Harry.

At conclusion she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the other eight dragons were. They were circling, clearly doing the same thing she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must birth landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in hopes that he would see her. She let out a surprised scream when two of the Draco suddenly grounded ahead of her, opening their jaws and waiting for her to fly at them. Fixing her grip as she'd seen Harry do, she made a incisive leftfield and headed back out over the water where four more Draco waited. Once again changing her grip, she zoomed straight up. `` LUNA ! LOOK OUT ! '' She heard Harry wow from far below her. Apparently he had seen her and ran out onto the beach to shout out out.

It took a instant too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the couplet of Draco that had been laying in wait among the crown had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, high over the island hoping to miss them among the fluffy Andrew D. White cloud. But before she could get herself quite that gamey, she felt one of the creatures grab the end of her ling and pluck her through the air. She lost her traction completely and felt herself begin to free fall. intellection as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her bloodline until she was able to lightly place her feet on the ground. Her relief quickly gave way to all out terror as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the flying lizard'nestle. Only this clip she had no broom and she was completely alone.

( BREAK )

Harry had just used his wand to piece the Calluna vulgaris he'd found in the Natalie Wood back together when Luna's scream echoed around him. He raced back onto the beach to catch an impossible sight- she was flying recklessly through the air as she tried to get away from all ten dragons. Seeing two of the savage break off from the group and hide themselves among the trees he realizing what the rather intelligent creature were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his mind but while he could still feel that constant connection to her, it was as if individual had cut a wire somewhere and all he could hear was a dial tone. Throwing everything he had into it, he cupped his work force around his oral fissure and screamed out a warning to her, hoping she was able to hear him. If she did, it was too late. The former dragon had forced her to fly toward their trap and the two concealing leapt out to surprise her. She shot upwards but to no help as one reached out and grabbed her broom. She fell off as the fauna snapped the ling like a toothpick, making Harry's center stop for a moment. But this clock time she had her wand and was able to slow her fall, but when he saw where she landed his heart dropped entirely into his stomach. The flying lizard had seen her too and they all descended on their draw close, intent on ousting the intruder.

Panic swept through him and he hurried to finish the final fix on the ling. Hearing a motorized sound he quickly ducked out of the way as a gravy boat carelessly drove up into the sand, allowing a fellow charwoman to jump down and face him. `` Hello Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old friends, casually throwing her hat and sunglasses back into the boat.

'' I don't have sentence for you. '' He said. Knowing she didn't have a baton, he pointed his at her threateningly as he mounted the broom.

'' So I saw… seems your little Quaker fell into the wrong situation. '' She grinned. `` forethought to deliver some help in retrieving her ? ``

Harry eyed her warily. `` Why, so you can just kill us both ? ``

'' Come now, let's put the past tense behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have time to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the remains of his Firebolt, long forgotten a few yards down the beach. `` Fix that up and Army of the Pure go. ``

He had no alternative, he needed avail distracting the dragon so he could fly in and grab Luna. Handing Sarah the broom he'd been holding, he ran over and waved his sceptre, fixing his own broom as best he could… at least it was in flying circumstance if not properly calibrated for the best flight potential. Together, they lifted off the ground, instantly making their way to the mountain. Harry just hoped his desperation for help didn't confidential information up being his downfall.

( happy chance )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibility cloak tightly around herself and closed her centre, doing her considerably to concentrate on apparating to just outside the quidditch tar at Hogwarts. Of trend, she was still getting the hang of the whole thing and so while she did get herself to Hogwarts, she was no where near the scene of action. In fact, she wound up inside the castle, just beyond the doorway to the Great Hall. With a suspiration of frustration, she made sure she was completely covered by the cloak before making her way outside.

Of course of study she had agreed to help keep an eye on Ron… she just had no idea why. He had made himself very clear that he wished to handle affair on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back off and let him learn just how much he needed his friend. But she could never do that and not only because she truly believed this man Erebos would kill him… She also could not give up Ron because some part of her knew that his end would mean her own as well. He had made a valid point the other Nox, they did not have intercourse each other, they had only just met and under the tensest of circumstance. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was Thomas More than leave to see what came of that drawing card as she had already admitted that his letter of the alphabet is what ultimately made her make up one's mind to follow here in the initiative place… she only hoped he would fall to his senses long enough to-

She stopped dead in her tracks as she realized she may have arrived too belatedly. Just beyond the field, she saw two figures slip quickly into the Forbidden timber and she was sure of at least one of their indistinguishability. The former she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak fall away as soon as she was within the tree cable so that she could run with more velocity and lupus erythematosus hitch. At end she came upon them and recognize she had been correct on both accounting, Ron and Erebos were a few chiliad ahead of her. She could feel Ron's distrust and uncertainty as he was led further into the trees.

'' Anapurna got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the woods ? '' He asked. Jacey was wild on his behalf, upset that the professor was uncoerced to use such an open injury to play tricks him into coming out here.

Erebos turned around wearing a cruel and vicious smiling. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reasonableness for you to come into the woods with me. ``

'' Why ? '' Ron asked slowly, clearly trying to figure out what was going on and how to get out of it.

'' To kill you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his intent a moment before he raised his baton and did the first gear affair that came into her mind… She set his sceptre on flame. He screamed in pain, dropping the thing as he cradled his injured handwriting to his body.

Ron pulled out his own wand before turning to figure out just what had happened. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked as his regard locked in on her.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She said stiffly, feeling hurt to still see ire under the surprise in his centre as he stared at her.

The sound of individual slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to witness Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the trees. She had never met the adult female and only knew her from the retentivity of others, but she was sure of who she was seeing. `` well done. '' Elise laughed with true amusement.

'' The slight bitch burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted, glaring at them all.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you speculative than that when you've angered me less. '' She laughed again. Then ignoring both male person, she spoke directly to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd seed. I was so very queer to detect out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, waving her bridge player and producing her own ardour. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll count this your audition. ``

Putting her verge in her pocket so that both of her hand were free, Jacey let the flame flare out of her swelled and with more of a tucket than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the cleaning lady did not waver to begin her attack, hurling chunk of flame one after the other. Engulfing her entire body in fire, Jacey was able to absorb whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to feel very warmly. Run before this paste ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit in use at the moment. He answered. She glanced over to ascertain him alternatively trying to put out the flame spreading through the timberland and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his wand and was trying to throw it work with his undamaged hand. It seemed that every once in awhile the man was able-bodied to get the wand to perform his spell which only distracted Ron from his impromptu try at being a firefighter.

She tried reaching for her sceptre but Elise only renewed her efforts, making it clear that she intended this fight to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no choice but to fight fire with fervor. It was more than Ron's pee spell could keep on up with and if they didn't find a way to end this soon, there was no telling how far the fire would spread. She did her skilful to focus on controlling and containing them to their small-scale region but it lessened the sum of money of concentration she could consecrate to the genuine fight and found herself more on the defensive attitude that she would have thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't tutelage where the fervor cattle ranch was giving the woman an edge over her but there was zippo she could do about that, she had to do her safe to control the damage her power caused. Realizing they were going to take assistance and taking even to a greater extent attention away from the conflict, she called out to Draco as he was the only one left here that she trusted to ask for assistant. She hoped he made it in time.

'' Jacey ! '' Ron yelled, bringing her broad attention back to the moment at deal. Seeing that she'd been momentarily distracted, Elise had taken her chance and used everything she had to shoot a jet flow of fire directly at her. She felt herself propelled backwards before her flames flickered out and everything went dark.

( BREAK )

'' What do you imply you have to go assistance Jacey ? '' Ginny demanded as genus Draco grabbed his coat. They'd been quietly lounging together in her room as they studied and she'd been enjoying the rather elusive worry-free moment… even if they had barricaded themselves in to nullify professor Erebos.

Looking at his aspect, she could enjoin he wasn't any more than proud of with the mind of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the school primer and she and Erebos have your blood brother cornered out in the woods. '' He answered honestly, in too much of a hurry to attempt lying. `` trustingness me, the lone ground I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, check in here and don't spread out the door to anyone until I get back, okay ? ``

'' Not okay. I want to go with. '' She insisted, moving to grab her pelage as well.

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the shoulders and forced her to look at him. `` I'll be much more efficacious in providing the help Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the Saami job out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

'' Meaning she's in bother because she's distracted by view of Ron and anyone else being hurt… I can't be of very much supporter if we add your upbeat to our listing of care. ``

'' indigence I remind you again that you aren't an immortal god or even a superhero ? You're a normal guy who got stuck with a being a werewolf and are just as capable of burning to death as I am. '' She gripped his arms, unwilling to let him leave her sight.

'' We don't have fourth dimension to fence. For once just humor me and stay here. '' He pleaded.

She stared at him a moment, letting the cycle turn in her oral sex as she figured out what to do. `` mulct, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at lastly, too worried about Ron and Jacey to continue him any longer.

He seemed leery but he had no choice other than to accept her accord. Leaning in to quickly kiss her goodbye, he then turned and fled the room. Walking over to her window, she waited until she saw him zip across the school grounds… he was faster than any human she'd ever seen and she could realize why he liked going out to run so much- it must be impossible to believe when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coating she fled her room, rushing through the halls and out the movement room access. She would stay fresh her promise not to follow after him… but she wasn't going to allow him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the school stave sat. Unfortunately, the soul she wanted to mouth to was also sitting following to the person she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three lives might be at stake, her brother's among them. `` Can we help you with something ? '' lupin asked with a favorable grin as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the schoolmaster, she took a abstruse breath and spoke to Lupin. She knew it was best to keep quotation of Jacey and Elise out of things with so many auricle around and so she made her point as clear and concise as possible. `` Draco ran out into the Sir Henry Wood to try and stop Professor Erebos from killing Ron. They need assistant. ``

( BREAK )

Fred waited a good two minutes to be certainly Elanya was gone before turning to repeal the bottom of the tent behind them. `` It's now or never. '' He told Hermione. She nodded solemnly and taking her paw, he led the way as they ran from the only thing that had been able to protect them. He tried to repeatedly call out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't see me at all ! '' He said aloud in foiling as they carefully made their way through the trees, keeping an ear out for any signaling of Elanya closing in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the energy field generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with most navigation tools, even the wizard ones. It's the main grounds it's so hard for masses to find these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that certain brainwave oftenness Harry and Luna use to conduct their telepathic abilities. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're stuck finding them the old fashioned way. '' He tried to use his wand to direct him towards the penny-pinching animation human but the stupid matter kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

'' Unless… '' She looked upward and he followed her gaze. There were respective flying lizard still out and they seemed to be attacking their own nest. `` You don't think… ? ``

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the alone answer was that their friends were up there and in a lot of trouble. `` I guess we try to mount it. '' He walked toward the al-Qaida of the mountain until he heard a small shriek of surprise that told him that Hermione wasn't following. Turning he found her struggling to free her foot from a rather ugly looking works. Originally mistaking it for some kind of shrub, they had walked by unaware… but now the matter had spread it's leaves apart and was shooting out several tentacle-like bump that were attempting catch Hermione and draw in her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his wand. But the works seemed to be immune to magic and zero he tried would make it stop.

'' Let go ! '' She yelled as she kicked at the plant. Not knowing what else to do, Fred picked up a large rock candy and began slamming it down on the tentacles. The plant life let out a deplorable speech sound, indicating it could sense pain. In an attempt to discharge herself, Hermione reached for another rock and helped him beat the tentacles away. Grabbing her under her arms, he pulled her to her feet and they scrambled away before the strange bush could regroup.

'' Well, that was something new. '' He said as they caught their breath. He'd certainly never come across a works like this before in all his time wandering the island though he'd definitely found some weird 1. Of row, other than go night when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this end to the base of the pot. He gave silent thanks that he hadn't passed by this thing in the dark.

'' Let's just prevent going. '' Hermione seemed shaky but shape and so he nodded and went on, this time ensuring they remained slope by side of meat. It was a short manner of walking and looking towards the sky, they were able to see that the way to the top of the mountain wasn't exactly flat up… that was a adept thing, making it less likely that they would fall to their deaths while attempting this. `` Okay, we just need to bump the right place to set forth. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the rocky wall and respective different course up.

Fred took a different approach, walking right up to the mountain and trying out the handholds and footing in a few position. Taking a few Thomas More steps to the left, he reached to go up up only to feel the rocks give way under his helping hand. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the ground, knocking the breathing space out of him and sending shooting pains up and down his leg. `` Fred ! '' He heard Hermione screaming his name.

'' Yeah ! '' He called out as best he could as he wheezed and tried to get his breathing back to normal. `` I'm alive ! '' He assured her more loudly once he was able.

'' Yes, but are you okay ? '' She yelled down to him.

'' I think my leg broke my decline. '' He shouted back, groaning in painfulness as he sat up to take a facial expression at himself. Feeling around on the primer coat he recovered his wand and quickly lit it, reaching out to delicately canvass his leg. `` I don't think anything's broken ! '' He assured her. No, not broken… just really banged up. He'd definitely landed on it wrong and he could see the stallion thing swelling from his human knee down to his ankle.

'' I'm going to float you up. ``

'' Just chip in me a minute to gather myself. '' Putting as little weight on it as possible, he slowly climbed to his infantry. Only once he was standing did he realize he seemed to anguish everywhere including the shoulder that had been broken utmost class during the quidditch compeer against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the bottom of his shirt in his mouth to muffle any sounds of pain he might make, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a moment he was able to forget all about his leg, but then came the sensory faculty of relief that told him that he'd achieved the result he'd wanted, his shoulder was back in it's proper place. Panting from the effort he wiped the perspiration from his face and took a few steadying hint. `` okay, quick ! '' He called out.

Instantly his foot carefully left the ground, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the hands of some invisible giant. He put his wand in his pocket as he rose up, wanting to have both hands free to help pull himself elucidate of the surprisingly minor opening he'd fallen through. At last he was able to see Hermione, using her wand to direct his procession. Reaching up, he grabbed the bound of the rocky opening. `` I need you to keep propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a good bobby pin with my feet. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her concentration, trying to only generate him an extra boost as he struggled to pull himself rid. Now being forced to use all the strength in his arms, he was glad that he'd gone swimming so much while he was trapped here and built up his muscles a bit.

'' Expelliarmus ! '' mortal screamed and Hermione's baton was ripped from her hand and sent flying off into the woods. Without her magic spell to aid him, he lost a bit of his grip and struggled through the pain in the ass to line up a foothold lest he fall back down into the cavern. He scrambled to nurse onto the rocks despite how sharp they were… once he felt brace, he was able-bodied to look up and see Elanya staring at them with a wide-eyed grinning as she tauntingly waved her scepter. `` I'm sorry it took so farseeing to dispatch those doubles you sent running out… it seems you're a well conjure man than I thought. ``

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione tried to reason with her as Fred struggled to use his spite leg to help oneself push him through the fix. But the more than pressure he tried to put on it, the More numb it seemed to grow… almost to the percentage point where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to strive back for his baton but letting go of the careen made him instantly slide backwards. He would need all the strong point in his arms to pull himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to front Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new determination, he decidedly placed his substructure and pushed off with them, gritting his teeth against the painfulness. From there he was capable to reach out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( BREAK )

'' Jacey ! '' Ron shouted but he was too tardily. Something had distracted her tenacious enough for Elise to get in a mastermind hit, sending her flying through the air and leaving her crumpled in the Snow. He tried to run to her but felt someone cask into him, tackling him to the ground.

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroy wand directly in Ron's expression as he pinned him to the primer. `` This here is between us ! ``

'' I don't even bed who the hellhole you really are ! '' He shouted angrily, gripping his scepter and sending the man hurtling through the air away from him. `` Jacey ! '' He yelled again as he sat up and saw Elise bending over her.

'' She's indisposed at the consequence. '' Elise called, straightening herself and turning to face him. He scrambled to his human foot and pointed his verge with a water spell on the tip of his clapper and gear up to be used. `` So, her epithet is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own sceptre. `` What else can you tell me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just postulate a moment to regain and focus my vigor. He heard Jacey's spokesperson rustle through his head. Do not betroth her… Draco is on his way to help.

Hearing that she was uninjured, embossment swept through him so quickly his knees almost buckled out from under him. `` null to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his care back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the only one to be seen with the mysterious palace guest at the Costume Ball… he also told me how close you two appeared to be so I know you can secern me everything I want to screw. Of path, seeing how loath you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always storm you to tell me. Though if we have to go that route, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you want to have it off ? '' He asked, hoping to buy time.

'' Everything about her that you know. ``

'' I know she's a liar. '' He said quickly. `` I know I can't trust anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly repeat every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to sort out the facts. '' He pushed himself to feel as genuinely raging as possible, wanting the woman to consider there was no reasonableness to think she'd be successful in using Jacey against him and vice versa ... or even considerably, convincing Elise that she didn't want anything to do with Jacey. He felt horrible, not just for what he'd said now, but also for the matter he'd said in the past… and even after he'd uttered such horrible bunk, she'd still come to try and help him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those things, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

'' A honorable liar can be of great use. '' Elise nodded approvingly. `` Unfortunately, it seems you are of no use at all. ``

GET OUT OF THE WAY ! Jacey screamed in his head and he saw her leap to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her hands to conjure her blast. Before he could wave his wand to shield, someone roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his groundwork and carrying them both away dissipated than Ron thought possible. It only took him a moment to recognise who had just may have got saved his life.

'' We have to go back for Jacey ! '' He yelled to Dragon who immediately turned them around.

As they approached the two young lady still whipping fire at each early without much aid as to what was around them, soul shouted `` obstructor ! '' forcing Draco to trip and sending both boys sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his wand, Ron leapt to his animal foot as Dragon fought the spell he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any closer to fray. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's wand tauntingly. `` Looks like your friend dropped this. '' He grinned. `` Time to see how much you've really learned while you've been here at Hogwarts Mr. Weasley. ``

There was no time to be nervous, he instantly cast a shield having seen the man ready to throw a spell at him. Within a instant he had retaliated by sending a freezing hex, but the professor took a page from Jacey and Elise's book shooting a current of fervidness from his wand that met the spray of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his denseness he repeated the spell, attempting to strengthen his position… but Erebos was just as determined and unrelenting.

'' ENOUGH ! '' A booming vocalism surrounded them.

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from head to toe in front of him. Ron took several mystifying breathing spell and lowered his sceptre as Dumbledore and Lupin came forward. The spell meant to keep Draco at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up adjacent to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only aloud enough for him to hear.

'' Don't mention it. '' He answered grimly.

Dumbledore walked over to stare down at his disgraced professor. `` wellspring Dolos, it seems I've finally caught you in something you won't be capable to talk your way out of. '' He said with a slight yet triumphant smile.

( BREAK )

Looking around quickly, Luna spotted a small opening across the nest the seemed to lead into the lot. She instantly ran towards it though she was changeable even her short and thin frame could squeeze through. Intuition burned in her gut and she flung herself to the background with a small scream of terror as she felt one of the monolithic beasts fly over her. Flipping onto her back she shot a smasher at the beast's partner as it swooped in to make it's own effort at catching her. The spell seemed to bounce off the dragon's skin, having no effect other than to anger the creature even more. Luna quickly rolled to the incline as it snapped at her before flying off to gift the next pair their round with her.

Scrambling to her metrical foot, Luna shaft toward the cave opening. She was tempted to use her sceptre and knock down the kettle of fish outdoors wider, but she worried that might possibly disrupt the stability of the mountain. The end thing she wanted was to get away the wolf only to be buried in a landslide or cave-in. Throwing herself forward, she was just barely able to squeeze through, turning her body sideways to make believe it.

She screamed as she felt a acutely twinge of pain and turned, using her scepter to cut the dragon who had grabbed her arm before she could fully hide herself. This seemed to have more outcome than anything else as the beast let out a mighty shriek of botheration and let her go. Pulling herself further into the scissure, she was led down a bit into a larger cave where she tripped over something that rattled and rolled away from her foot. With a sick feeling in the pit of her belly, she lit her wand and covered her mouth to throw back the scream of revulsion she wanted to let loose. Several clappers littered the floor of the cave, and they seemed to belong to to both beast and humans.

Remaining near the hatchway, she turned her back so she wouldn't have to see any of it and instead focused on checking the legal injury done to her arm. Seeing two big bloody gashes in the arm of her coat, she shrugged it off feeling far too affectionate anyway. Tearing off the rest of the finished sleeve of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her skin and found that, while atrocious, the scrawl didn't seem to go too deep… While it had been happening, it had felt like her arm was nearly severed and she was More than a niggling jutting to learn that wasn't the eccentric. She quickly used the bit of fabric that had once been her sleeve to wrap the wound and quell the bleeding.

'' LUNA ! '' She heard Harry yelling desperately for her.

'' I'M Here ! '' She shouted back, forcing herself up through the peg down opening to return to the nest. Peering out from the mess, she caught the out of the question sight of not only Harry, but also Sarah Elaine as they both zoomed through the air, working together to disorder and divide the dragons. Luna watched in amazement as Sarah flew past several boulders, using her telepathy to knock them over onto the dyad of dragons that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her aid back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and Forth until he was able-bodied to taunt all of the firedrake back into the air. They may not be able to communicate in their head at the moment, but she knew him well enough to pretend what he wanted her to do. As soon as the last dragon had taken flight of steps, she ran out into the give where Harry could see her. Putting her wand between her dentition, she threw her hands in the air as he passed over and struggled to hold on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on fire with hurting as she struggled to climb up onto the broom with him as they'd done at Lairmore, but she tried to push it out of her judgement until she was safely seated behind him.

'' You got it ? '' Harry called over his shoulder as she settled herself and wrapped her injure arm around him.

'' Just fly, I'll cast of characters. '' She assured him, taking her scepter from her mouth and turning to shoot a watercourse of attack at the two dragon that were just a few scant feet behind them, sending the beast to plunk away.

'' This way ! '' Sarah called almost gleefully, laughing as she dipped back down toward the water. As they descended, Luna was able to stool out yet another small gravy boat streaking toward the island. Sarah flew them down towards it and with ten dragon fast behind them, Harry had no choice but to stick to. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was capable to agnize the two people on the gravy holder and as soon as she made the connectedness she knew she was right. `` That's impossible… '' She said breathlessly.

'' What ? '' Harry asked, turning his head slightly to learn her better. She could feel his frustration at not experiencing the complete access to her cerebration that he'd become used to having… she knew he felt this way because it was the Sami demand way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' Watch where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a warning as the air suddenly exploded in a shower of flames all around them.

( BREAK )

While pretending to be injured, Jacey assured Ron that she was in fact okay before focusing on herself. She went into her own school principal, trying to gather her energies and refuel her fervour. Sending her mind out, she heard him apologizing to her… I know. She answered him, and she did make out that he genuinely felt bad for the way he had spoken to her only to break that she would come to his rescue anyway.

And then Elise's thoughts overpowered his and she was able to see that the fair sex intended to get rid of the only individual there to witness whatever she had planned. GET OUT OF THE WAY ! She screamed at Ron, as she lurched to her feet. She watched in horror as Elise unleashed a fiery hell in his direction… which is the take moment Draco swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the competitiveness. Jacey was thankful that she now had one less thing to care about. She reached for her wand only to distinguish that at some point it had fallen out of her air hole. Cupping her hand, she formed a fast powerhouse and threw it at Elise, knocking the womanhood square in the back before she could light up herself on fire to imbibe the contact. This caused her not only to scream in nuisance but more importantly, to completely forget about chasing after the boys.

She quickly lit and extinguished herself before turning to Jacey. `` And I thought it was only those on Voldemort's side who struck the great unwashed in the back. ``

'' You do not recognize me or what I have been adequate to of in the past… I could let just as easily joined the other side. '' Jacey replied darkly, trying not to let herself suppose of anything in her past.

'' Except there's obviously something you want that Harry and his allies can allow you. '' Elise grinned. `` Tell me what it is and I promise I can get it to you dissolute and with to a lesser extent difficultness that they ever could. ``

'' I highly doubt that. '' She thought of what she wanted and knew the only way to get any of it was to stay on loyal and trustworthy to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the living Elise was offering and had only recently been capable to hold off the shackles of that kind of existence… The one where you could trust no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt exclusively and mark and were forced into being someone you are not in decree to subsist. She was ready for the life that came with being Harry's ally and a member of the coven… She was ready for the form of friendship you would risk your life for even after arguing and she was fix for the freedom of being able to say and do what she wanted, of being able to care about anything and everything, of being capable to be herself.

'' seed now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just suppose if you joined us, reckon the world after we win this war… we'll be able to shape it into anything we want it to be. It'll no longer be about wizards and muggles, it'll be about those like us… those with tycoon. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can stimulate as often destruction as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the best interest of all if we could pass on some sort of correspondence. ``

'' So then you concede the fight. '' Jacey challenged, brushing off the fair sex's poorly composed sales event pitch.

'' I'm dong no such matter. '' She assured her, once more lighting herself on fire in character Jacey decided to contrive another ballock of flame. She stared past her and smiled before once more group meeting her eye. `` It looks like Dolos is about to wipe out Ron. ``

Not wanting to fall in Elise the satisfaction of distracting her, she quickly conjured the largest fireball she could and broadcast it flying at the womanhood at top speed, knocking her to the primer coat. Circling around so as to never take in her back to Elise, she scanned the tree for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to press off whatever go was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this scrap, she saw Elise extend to out from the ground and point. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her arm to shield her psyche as the tree next to her exploded in flaming. `` ENOUGH ! '' A loud, authoritative vocalization reverberated through the trees. Both she and Elise extinguished themselves and looked around curiously.

sculptural relief flooded through her when she saw Dumbledore and Lupin rushing over to Ron, Draco and Erebos. `` Well, I guess this means it's time to go. '' Elise smiled, shooting one more surprise bam of flak before turning and running off through the trees.

Jacey quickly dodged before running off after her. `` No ! Stop her ! '' She shouted as the cleaning woman passed within a few groundwork of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree on fire as a distraction to hold them busy. Leaving it to the others to keep the flames from spreading, Jacey never slowed her tempo and continued on in her pursuit. She thought she was alone until she felt Dragon coming up behind her… and then he was passing her as he moved with impossible speed. Do not let her make it past the school's boundaries ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was unable to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the shelter charms… but if she made it past tense Hogwarts'borders, she'd be able-bodied to go anywhere.

Seeing that Elise was only yards away from escaping, genus Draco pushed himself a little harder and mad a wild dive, tackling the woman around her legs and bringing her to the ground. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving Dragon away as Elise tried to retaliate. He threw up a shield around himself to flip off the flames. `` You have to let me go away, Harry and Luna's life may calculate on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her choler at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you mean ? '' Jacey and Draco demanded at the Same time.

She reached up and pulled a pocket-sized disc from her ear and held it out for them to see. `` I've been in constant communication with Sarah since Elanya contacted Dolos and told him to let us get laid that your booster had finally arrived on the island to deliver Fred. Now she's telling me that the flying dragon are awake and very much after Harry and Luna. We researched that island well before choosing it and learned everything we could about the dragon including reading the new book written by Charlie Weasley… those firedrake aren't the kind that breathing space flaming, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to facilitate, but they're only three people against a host of beasts. If I don't go and help, two of your supporter and one of mine might just become some lamentable brute's meal. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a place she could apparate from.

Dragon uncertainly raised his wand to stop her but Jacey grabbed his arm. `` No. '' She said quietly.

Elise only grinned wider as she extended a deal out to her. `` Come with me Jacey. We can solve together just this once in the interest of saving our ally'sprightliness. After we can go right back into another firefight if you'd like ... one far from Hogwarts where you can really go after me without worrying about what else is being destroyed. '' She offered.

Don't do it… it's got to be a trap. Draco silently warned her.

I know it is. But I can also see that she is not lying about Harry and Luna being in trouble. Jacey replied. Quickly making her option, she rushed to take Elise's hand and allowed the woman to whisk them away before Draco could break them.

( rift )

Harry dodged to the leftfield to get off the tartar only to own to swerve immediately rightfield to dodge the fireball that guesswork past them. Luna had abandoned her attempt to use her wand and now held onto him tightly with both arms as it was clear that his flight was the only when affair that was going to get them through this. He didn't fuss to distract himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a Dragon or plumb bob into the ocean for all he cared, as long as he and Luna got out of this with their lives… Oh yeah, and Jacey who was inexplicably down on a gravy boat with Elise as both girls flung fervor in the air to trail off the creatures. He wished he could talk to Luna without turning and yelling, he wished they could discuss their alternative and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to help. He felt cold and isolated being cut off… not only from her idea but from Hermione, Fred and Jacey's as well.

'' capitulum down to the boat ! '' Sarah called as she zoomed past times them to lightly set ashore and looked up expectantly.

'' What do you reckon ? '' He called to Luna as he continued to clear his way though ardor and dragons.

'' Jacey's down there alone with the both of them ! '' She yelled back. `` Like it or not, we have to go. ``

'' I can't be sure to dodge tartar with all three of us on the broom ! ``

'' Then we'll have to land and assume the other broom back from Sarah ! Then we can go come up Fred and Hermione and get the hell out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her expression in his back in provision for the sharp free fall he was about to get. Fixing his grip he shot straight down, streaking past respective Dragon until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to send out fire flash to preserve the beasts at bay as he softly set his metrical foot down on the bow of the minor sauceboat. Sarah immediately started the railway locomotive and jerked forward, sending Harry and Luna both sprawling into the boat. She turned the wheel and swung around, speeding away from the island.

'' What are you doing ? ! '' Harry demanded as he and Luna helped each other to their feet.

'' Getting us away from here, what does it look like ? '' She stared at him as if he were stupid before gesturing to the rear of the gravy boat where Jacey and Elise were still using their great power to resist off the four tartar intent on pursuing them beyond the island.

'' No, we have to go back. '' He insisted. `` Hermione and Fred are still there. ``

'' So what ? '' Elise called over her shoulder joint. `` They're drained weightiness around your cervix. Let them go. ``

'' Elanya is still there too. '' Luna argued.

Elise fully turned to them and smiled. `` So what ? '' She asked again. `` Unlike you, I trust that my ally are more than capable of taking caution of themselves… and unlike you, I could worry less whether they live or die. ``

'' I think this is far enough. '' Sarah said, once more turning off the engine and letting the gravy boat gallery through the water. They had apparently gone far enough to assure the flying dragon that they had no intentions of returning to their nest. The brute had finally given up the pursuit and headed back home. `` I didn't think it would take all of this to get you to the island. '' She grinned.

'' You wanted us to come here ? '' Harry asked doubtfully.

'' Of course of study. '' Elise laughed. `` We knew you'd want to come after Fred and so he proved his first use to us… there's still more for him to do though. ``

'' We just never thought it would adopt you this retentive to enter things out… Tristram must birth kept you all pretty preoccupied. '' Sarah taunted. `` Seems he's disappeared from the castling though. Can't wait to see where he turns up next. ``

Harry, Luna and Jacey stole coup d'oeil at each other… it seemed that Elise and Sarah didn't know anything about them having already killed Tristram. Yet again he wished he still had the power to go into their brain to see if it was true. `` I thought he was supposed to making you both immortal in Voldemort's name. '' He said, not wanting to give himself away while at the same time hoping to get a few to a greater extent solvent than Herbert A. Simon had been able to provide.

'' We haven't yet decided whether we'll go through with that. '' Elise shared a grin with Sarah as if they were sharing some buck private joke. `` We're still weighing the pros and bunko game of immortality… but it's important to always appear agreeable to lord Voldemort. '' She laughed.

'' But we're getting off issue. '' Sarah reminded her. `` I do believe they were about to ask why we wanted them here. ``

'' It's simple, we wanted to shew just how capable we are in getting what we want and how strategic it would be for you three to get together us. '' Elise explained to them. We figured someplace far from the influence of Dumbledore and your former friends would give us the fortune to really ca-ca ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big gesture are the solely way to reach people listen ... '' Luna quietly repeated what Simon had said to them when explaining his own actions.

Elise stared at her in surprise. `` I'm glad you see my point. But clearly whatever was going on up at the castle was distracting you all from what we wanted you to do, which was come find Fred. It was taking so long that we figured sending in Dolos to rough up Ginny Weasley would ca-ca you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having problem getting Fred to join forces so we figured it would be a win-win place. Of course of study the stupe man is terrified of both Draco Malfoy and your friend lupin for what they are, though he's too majestic to allow in it. When Draco refused access to Ginny, making it clear that the only way Dolos was reaching her was through a combat with him, our less than brave spy gave up. But then, to our pleasure we received word that you all had come to the island today anyway and we knew it was the hone opportunity so Elanya ordered Dolos to kill Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in trouble and so we apparated to my waiting ship and hopped in the speedboat to occur to your deliverance. ``

'' So what happened back at Hogwarts ? '' Harry asked nevously, this time turning to address Jacey who he'd left in rush of looking after Ron.

'' He is okay. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… end I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely pleased to accept him in custody. ``

'' It doesn't affair in the to the lowest degree. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you conceive I left the changeling behind to whatever fortune befell him ? Even if he decided to turn on me, he knows nothing of any consequence… I've seen to that personally. And with only two workweek left for you all to be at Hogwarts, the man was entirely expendable. '' She stopped to smile at the faces they were all making. `` Oh don't look at me like that. He and I had a deal, I provided my part and he provided his. Just because he got caught doesn't mean I had any obligation to help… he made his choice to become involved in this and now he knows he was dealing in affair far above his head. ``

'' A short lesson to hear the heavily way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her head in mock grief before smiling brightly. `` In any example, we got exactly what we wanted even if we had to sacrifice Dolos. Now we know Jacey. ``

'' It's okay, Dolos was very good at his job when he wanted to be. '' Elise cooed, reaching out to comfort Jacey who shoved her away. She went on as if Jacey wasn't staring obelisk of hatred at her. `` He saw you and Ron at the Costume formal, and putting two and two together, he figured you were the Saame mysterious someone Dumbledore had been keeping in his office… the one Harry and all his friends made exceptional slip up there to visit. We knew putting Ron's life in risk would contribute you running, especially if Harry and Luna were in use elsewhere. ``

'' But Erebos really intended to kill Ron ! '' Jacey protested.

'' So ? '' Sarah shrugged. `` Who is he in all of this ? He has no major power or claim to greatness. ``

'' Regardless your opinion of our friend, '' Harry stepped in to halt Jacey from punching Sarah in the nerve as it was clear she very much longed to do, `` you've done all of this for no reason. We obviously want zippo to do with you. '' He looked at Luna, hoping their connection to each other was potent enough for her to understand what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and bring a small step sideways toward the broom Sarah had abandoned when she'd gotten on the boat. He'd never let his go even when he'd fallen and he now held it stiffly beside him, hoping Jacey would get the hint. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their telepathy to communicate with each other… just a total agreement of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the back of his shirt to indicate that she was fix. It had taken a matter of mo but they were ready and so he quickly swung his heather so they could hop on as Luna lunged for the other one and together they zoomed up into the sky, sure to move fast enough to outrun Elise's firing range.

'' Let's go find Fred and Hermione and go family ! '' Jacey shouted unnecessarily as they rushed back toward the island with the speedboat in hot spare-time activity below them.

( BREAK )

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione asked, trying to hide the fact that she was scared.

'' If I knew that I would already get it, wouldn't I ? '' Elanya sneered. She walked forward, making a pocket-sized circle around her as she inspected her from every Angle. `` So, you're the grounds Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to stand directly in straw man of her, her golden oculus glaring with a lethal attack. `` I just don't get it. There must be something here that I'm just not seeing. '' She said with intentional meanness.

Hermione kept smooth, though there were about a million things that she would have liked to say in return. But without her wand, the endure matter she wanted was to fall in the girl another reason to wish her dead.

'' zero to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's okay, I have my own way of finding things out. '' She tightly clutched her wand before reaching out to grab Hermione's script, the same one Fred had held earlier.

Hermione watched in horror as the lady friend's eyes rolled up into her fountainhead and she fell forward. Elanya still had her bridge player in a Death grip and dragged her down to her knees as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some sort of vision of the yesteryear. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself free. For a brief second she considered going into the Dubya to look for her wand but remembering her last encounter with unknown leaf, she decided it would be best to take Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the girl's digit apart.

'' Not so fast ! '' Elanya screamed, coming out of her trance or whatever she was doing, tackling Hermione to the basis and shoving her wand against her throat. throttling and coughing, she pushed against the scepter as she struggled to breath but Elanya had locked her arms and was unrelenting. She leaned in conclusion to Hermione with an evil smile. `` I saw all the memories you shared together. It was very dulcet but not at all what he needs… I'm sorry but it has to end this way. ``

Reaching rich inside herself, Hermione gathered every bit of strength she had and getting her legs under the other fille, she kicked out and managed at hold out to get her off. Grabbing at her throat in relief as air once more made it's way to her lungs, she struggled to her feet, not wanting to be caught incognizant. Elanya was already standing and pointing her wand. `` You're right, what fun is it to just end your aliveness like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the conjuration of escape isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a school principal start. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to impart all of her attention to the psychotic girl, she had no idea whether Fred had fallen again and breach his neck, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most likely that Elanya would catch her anyway.

'' Well, that's your prerogative. '' She smiled with demented delight and got ready to cat. `` I wish I could say it's been nice knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her centre and waited for impact. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another spell straight at Elanya that sent her flying various K back through the trees until she hit one hard enough to ping her out. She turned to find him sprawled on the earth, sweating and panting from the elbow grease of pulling himself free with a leg that even from here looked extremely swollen. `` Accio wand. '' He called tiredly in the direction Hermione's wand had flown earlier. It shot into his bridge player, which he held out to her as she rushed over.

'' Are you okay ? '' She asked, taking the wand and kneeling next to him.

'' I'm really not sure. '' He answered, groaning in pain as she helped him sit up. His hands were bleeding from the Rock, but other than that and his leg, nix else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his assertion that nothing was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be able-bodied to walk. `` That should help. And we'll find an old branch or something for you to use as a cane to serve put your weighting on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his eye as he presumably thought of the torment of being forced to displace at all, let alone to walk.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna. They're the solely ones who can get us out of here. '' She pressed.

He nodded weakly. `` I know. Go find a offset and let's do this. '' He said, trying to rally himself.

They both kept an eye on the spot Elanya had landed as she ventured into the trees to appear for a part of Mrs. Henry Wood foresighted and sturdy enough for their design. At last she found one and rushed back over to serve Fred climbing to his feet. Throwing his other arm around her shoulders, he was eventually able-bodied to find a way to use both her and the make-shift walking peg to his easily advantage as he hobbled along. `` Should we anticipate out for them since they can't seem to find out us in their heads ? '' She asked looking up at the sky and finding it empty.

'' I don't know… either it'll bring them to us, it'll bring someone else to us or it'll be useless because they were eaten by the firedrake that now seem to have calmly returned to their nest. '' He answered gloomily.

'' Well, that's the variety of attitude that'll get us through this. '' She said sarcastically.

'' Sorry. '' He muttered. `` I think our best bet is to go down to the beach. If they're still out there somewhere, that's the best property for them to see us. Calling out would only evidence Elanya exactly where we are. ``

'' okeh then. '' She smiled.

He wrapped his arm more tightly around her articulatio humeri and sighed. `` I'm glad you came to rescue me… I'm not used to playing the damsel. '' He grinned.

'' Yeah well, it's no outing being the white knight either. '' She laughed. `` It's far too practically pressure. ``

They walked on in easy silence, as happy as they could be given their place. To his deferred payment, Fred didn't postulation that they stop to rest until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the capable. Moving over to a grouping of small boulders, she helped him sit while keeping the rock candy and water at their rachis and their eyes able-bodied to see the tree line and anyone who may wander out of it. `` Did you hear that ? '' He asked after a short piece, shading his eye as he searched the afternoon sky.

A whooshing phone came from above them and they saw Luna and Harry shoot through the air over the island. `` Is there someone on Harry's heather ? '' She asked, trying to figure out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the clock time to yell and get their attention. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to avail push himself to his feet. She leapt up to aid and together they walked further away from the tree into the backbone. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their script until at live on Harry caught sight of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her foot, Hermione looked down and gave a small screech as several large sea crabs scuttled across the guts towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the tree diagram, pointing her sceptre at Fred and sending the tiny creature she'd conjured after him.

Hermione tried to aid resist them off but suddenly found herself dragged backwards by an invisible forcefulness only to end up at Elanya's groundwork. `` That should keep him interfering enough for us to finish what we started. '' She leered down at her.

( jailbreak )

These dazed crabs just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob mentality as they swarmed over each other to reach Fred. He tried to limp after Hermione and Elanya who had taken to dueling each other encourage up the beach but between his already injured leg and the sharp chela continually piercing the tegument of the sound one, it was all he could do to keep from falling over. Using his baton and the reefer he'd been carrying as a crutch to fend the little cuss off, he slowly persisted forward while looking to the sky to see why Harry and Luna hadn't landed to help them yet. He saw that they'd become involved in their own battle out over the ocean as a sauceboat raced toward the beach. Once of the people aboard was shooting fireballs and streaks of fire into the air while the individual riding with Harry returned the fiery attack. Luna was swooping in, waving her sceptre and stirring up some waves in an endeavor to keep the gravy boat from reaching the island… but it was clear the soul driving cared nothing about the boat, damaging it beyond fix as it was battered by Luna's charm. He was so interfering watching them that he wasn't quite watching where he was going anymore… bother crack through his foot as he felt himself whole step on one of the crabs. Using the walking stick, he tried to recover his balance but his infantry sank into the Amandine Aurore Lucie Dupin and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his arms to go bad his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his binding, he dropped the stick and wildly waved his sceptre but to no help. The tool were all over him in an instant, looking much larger and more wild now that he was eye-level with them. There were so many, he felt as if he were being crushed under their weight as they piled on top of each other, all trying to sneak and pierce his hide. He thrashed wildly, sending many of them flying away… but there were always Thomas More to take in their place. Panic settled over him as he realized that he was unable to get up and the crabs were taking the chance to bury him.

( respite )

Luna gripped the ling tightly, terrified that she was going to fall off as the little of visions suddenly washed over her to give a warning of what was coming. It was brief enough that she didn't completely lose consciousness but detailed enough to write her spirit. Quickly dodging to the left away from Harry and Jacey, she turned to see a fireball explode where she'd been only a bit ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him stiff before turning to riposte the flames Elise was sending.

'' I'm amercement ! '' She yelled back as she swerved another fireball. The boat had snuck up on them and Luna was amazed to discover that her vision had served not only to admonish her of the attack, but that for some reasonableness those girl had decided they no longer give care if she lived or died. She wasn't sure what had changed, but from the way Elise continued to hold fire at her alone assured Luna that at some point, her life became less valuable to them than Harry and Jacey's… And so they were attacking her to distract them all from the fact that they were approaching the island where Hermione and Fred were clearly having trouble.

Deciding to do what she could to keep them from once more reaching the beach and carry out whatever they had planned next, Luna swooped in low and used her wand to conjure up some violent wafture that tossed the little boat around. She grinned in satisfaction to see Elise nearly fall overboard… unfortunately it wasn't enough to deter Sarah who drove on despite the destruction being caused to her boat. She waved her wand again, strengthening the appealingness and creating bigger and more savage waves… and then she saw the larger ship on the celestial horizon, quickly heading in their direction. Distracted, she hovered in the air for a bit as she tried to figure out who could be aboard.

'' Luna front out ! '' Jacey yelled at the Sami clip her intuition screamed in her foreland to turn. She was to a lesser extent than a second too lately and the very back of her broom was caught in the fiery stream.

Feeling herself begin to plummet, she shot toward the beach. As soon as there was unanimous solid ground below her, she rolled off the broom only to find herself surrounded by tons of pediculosis pubis. She quickly got to her feet but the wight didn't seem to have any interest in her and following their advancement with her oculus she was capable to see Fred further away, thrashing about as all of the crabs went about attacking him. Realizing what piece had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was nada that was going to telephone them off. Ignoring the unity that pinched her as she reached down to help him get up, she saw that one of his legs was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her shoulder, she got a better hold and together they were able to abstract him off the ground and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to catch his breathing place as they both used their baton to keep open the Cancer the Crab at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his eyes wide with business organisation. `` Now forget about me and go help Hermione… I can't move quickly enough. ``

She looked over to see the girl dueling heavily with Elanya. They both looked tired but other than a few scraping and bruises they hadn't seemed to make any clearance against each other… The landscape around them was a different story as shattered and uprooted Tree littered the beach. Luna rushed forward, casting as she went and sending a dizzying sandstorm after Elanya while yelling for Hermione to get out of the way. But before her spell could reach it's target, it was suddenly pushed harmlessly out to sea.

turning, she saw that Sarah had run the speedboat ashore and taken control of Luna's sirocco before it could harm her friend. Harry and Jacey grounded as Elise jumped down from the gravy boat to link Sarah on the sand. They all five stared at each other, tensely waiting to see who would do what first. On one English of their group, Hermione and Elanya had resumed their affaire d'honneur as they now each were trying to keep the former from going to assist their friends… on the other English, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to keep himself from falling over again.

The blaring sound of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the dragons took to it. various trashy shrieks erupted from the nest but apparently they had sensed there was no direct terror to them and remained safely where they were. `` It seems our ride out of here has arrived. '' Sarah grinned. `` Who's coming with us ? ``

( BREAK )

Harry tried to observe Luna right away as he saw her broom pinch flak, forcing her to land, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flames as Jacey tried to retaliate from the back of the broom. `` They are about to pull ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

'' proceed our itinerary clear ! '' He instructed, tightening his grip and heading heterosexual for the beach as she ensured Elise wasn't able-bodied to hit them. He landed as lightly as he could so that Jacey could get her feet under her before speeding over to Luna who had been trying to aid Hermione until Sarah stepped in.

He tried to think, to cypher out what to do next… it was inconceivable to plan without knowing what everyone was thinking and as he, Luna and Jacey stared down Elise and Sarah, Harry found himself wondering how he'd ever managed before fully awakening that part of himself. A loud horn startled him from his thoughts and he looked out over the weewee to see a large ship anchored and three dory entire of people making their way to the beach. `` It seems our ride has arrived. Who's coming with us ? '' Sarah asked, looking around at them all with a mad grin.

Jacey and Luna looked at each early and then to him, it was assoil they were as upset as he was that they were unable to plan. `` Can we discuss this among ourselves ? '' He boldly asked… after all, as far as Elise and Sarah knew, they were all spring to the island by the anti-apparation magical spell and thought they could provide the only if way out.

Elise eyes him warily. `` I'd be speedy about making a decision. '' She reluctantly agreed, gesturing over her shoulder. `` Whether they like it or not, everyone aboard that ship is under our control… not to refer your two acquaintance seem to be struggling quite a bit. ``

Carefully grabbing Luna's uninjured arm he pulled her and Jacey further away and lowered his representative so only they could find out him. `` Okay, Luna when I give the signal, run and snaffle Fred and get yourselves back to Hogwarts. Jacey and I will go get Hermione and follow right behind you. '' She instantly opened her mouth to protest but he shook his head and went on. `` If we haven't come back in ten minute, then go get lupine and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you experience better… Just bring them back here to avail. ``

She stared at him for a moment, clearly unsure that this was the ripe plan. But it was the just one they had and she must accept realized it. `` fine, ten moment and not a 2d more. '' She finally agreed.

'' Okay then. '' Harry took her hand and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to hold open Sarah and Elanya back as best you can while I go facilitate out Hermione… as soon as we're able-bodied, apparate to the Shrieking hovel okay ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her hands together as she prepared to unleash more of her power than she'd been able to in a more populated place.

'' Well ? '' Elise impatiently called from behind them. `` What's it going to be ? come with us voluntarily or expect until our footling minions row ashore to squeeze you to onboard with us against your will ? ``

'' Seeing as how there's still much about us that you don't know, we're going with option C. '' Harry answered. He felt Luna tense side by side to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering wall of ardor, sending it to encircle Elise and Sarah. The flames raged, flickering over seven pes highschool and with more strength than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will occupy her a mo to deal with. '' Jacey grinned.

Harry watched Luna rush over to Fred and waited until she had grabbed his arm and apparated them both away before turning to help Hermione. `` Just keep them busy. '' He instructed before walking over to help take aid of Elanya and get off this island and back to Luna.

'' Harry ! '' He heard Jacey yell out a warning and turned to see several large boulders flying at him. He ducked to the earth and threw a shield around himself but it became quickly realize that Sarah hadn't been trying to wipe out him as the Rock settled and entombed him.

'' Cave Inimicum ! '' He heard Elise yell, strengthening the rocks and ensuring he was effectively trapped.



bank note : More to hail soon !