Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus spent most of the Clarence Shepard Day Jr. preceding Christmas at Rose 's home. James was determined to use all of his spare clock time for Quidditch drill, and he had to go to rose wine 's house for that. Albus usually went with him and he and Hugo would help Saint James the Apostle practice while rose read.

Harry had to practically separate James from his broom by magic on Christmastide Eve so they could go to Godric 's Hollow. James wanted to stay at Rose 's house and keep open practicing, but Harry refused to let him. The misstep was pipe down since Jesse James was rather sullen the entire time.

"professor Patil says I 'm a natural at Transfiguration,"Lily bragged to Albus as they walked towards the tunnel afterwards.

"That 's safe,"Albus replied.

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

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

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

Albus nodded as Lily began to delineate in great detail what form of cat she would transform into.

Everyone else was already at the tunnel and Albus felt an immediate warmheartedness come over him as he stepped inside. It had nothing to do with the fact that it was so cold and snowy outside, either. There was something so comforting about being at the Burrow surrounded by all his phratry. He was able to forget all the issues with the Quidditch tournament and professor Killigan. All he could call up about was how edacious he was and how good some of his grandmother 's cooking would be right about then.

rosebush sat down next to Albus as he tucked into a large sports stadium of Allium cepa soup with a side of homemade bread.

"Uncle Charlie and aunt Katherine are going back to Romania this summertime,"rosebush announced.

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

"Yeah,"rosebush nodded,"They might outride even after the summer 's over, but heather mixture and marking will get along back to go to Hogwarts."

"They get to go, too ?"

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

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

Stanley had been working at the Magical menagerie since he finished Hogwarts, but knew he did n't need to do that his entirely liveliness. He just did n't know what he did want to do.

"I wish our parents would acquire us to some other commonwealth,"Albus sighed.

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

Albus personally had enough of History from professor Binns, but he supposed learning chronicle by traveling would be fun.

"Noel Quidditch tomorrow ?"slip asked as he sat down next to Rose.

"Definitely,"Albus grinned.

"I would n't count on it, chemise,"Molly said as she handed Albus another lump of bread,"We 're supposed to get the snowstorm of the X tomorrow. The Muggle electricity is already out in town."

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

"You 'll do no such matter !"Molly shouted,"It 's dear unacceptable to Appparate during such a violent storm. Not to mention the fact that it 's Christmas and you should be here."

"We do n't take electricity to roleplay Quidditch !"teddy bear exclaimed,"It 'll be perfective tense training consideration ! If you can hitch a snitch in the center of a blizzard, you can arrest one in any weather. It 's not like Kendrick ever calls off Quidditch because of snow."

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

Albus finished his soup and he and Rose went into the den, where they were greeted by a gimcrack chorus of 'Odo the Heron', Sung dynasty by George, Alicia, Charlie, and Ron. Bill and Fleur were laughing while Hermione shook her head. Albus had a feeling the lone reason why Fleur approved was because the vocalizing was drowning out Celestina Warbeck.

"So then I said, I 'm not paying seven Sickles for that !"Walker Percy said to Katherine, who was only sort of paying attending,"And the fellow looked at me like I was mad. I say he 's mad, charging that much for a tour of a questionably historic old construction. There really should be ordinance on such things. It 's one thing I 'll change if I 'm ever Minister."

Albus stifled a jest. His Uncle Walker Percy had been talking about running for Minister for the by ten years, but still had n't done it. Most of his uncles and aunts got sick of hearing him babble out about what he would and would not change.

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

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

"Exhausting,"Victoire sighed,"And I have to estimate out which component part of the hospital I want to do the rest of my preparation in by September. We 've been rotating throughout all the base, but now we have to pick one. I 'm nowhere near decided."

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

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

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

"Thanks, shift,"Victoire smiled,"I 'm thinking either the motherhood Mrs. Humphrey Ward or Spell Damage."

"There 's a meddlesome ward,"Teddy grinned,"Spell Damage. You 'll get all the good story wound there."

"That 's not a right cause to pick a specialization,"Victoire groaned.

"Good a reason as any,"shimmy shrugged.

The time grew later and after Albus played numerous turn of Exploding snap with his cousin-german, his grannie announced that it was time for bed. Everyone argued, but there was really no distributor point. Everyone, including the other adult, knew that arguing with molly Weasley was useless.

Albus trudged up the stairs to the gamey bedroom that he shared with James, Ben, and Cedric. He climbed into bed and then realized just how big this impending blizzard was. The wind was howling louder than he 'd ever discover before.

The wind was so powerful that Albus could feel it through the gaps in the windowpane. Every once in a spell, the house would squeak and shake. Albus sighed and put his pillow over his auricle to try and drown out the howl.

Albus did n't manage to stray off to sleep until after Cedric got out of bed, swore loudly, and disregarded the no conjuration outside of school ruler to put a silencing charm on the room.

******

Albus was awoken by his one-year Christmas wake-up outcry, Lily. She breezed through the room access shouting about how they all needed to wake up and spread their present tense.

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

"pigeon hawk !"James jumped off the top bunkum and looked out the window,"There is ! And it 's still coming !"

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

"We could build the creation 's biggest C. P. Snow wizard later,"Ben suggested.

"We could build an intact nose candy sensation regular army,"Albus said.

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

Albus descended upon his own stack of present tense and began opening them. There were the usual sweets and Weasleys'product from his auntie and uncles. Another Weasley jumper, this one vermilion and amber striped. He pulled it on over his pyjama and opened the ease of the nowadays from his aunt and uncles. His Aunt Hermione had gotten him a few Holy Scripture he 'd probably never read, including one about the history of planetary house elves at Hogwarts.

Albus saved his parents'present for in conclusion, although he doubted they could top last year 's. There really was n't anything in the world that was ameliorate than the Invisibility Cloak.

"Al, did you open Mum and Dad 's yet ?"Epistle of James shouted.

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

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

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

"Whoa !"Albus shouted,"World Cup slate !"

"I did n't even know they were on sale this former !"Henry James said.

"You two get the in effect present tense,"Cedric said.

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

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

Albus suddenly realized he had the Saami problem. Two tag. Five Quaker he would need to pick out. Who was he going to choose ? Not pink wine. They may consume been friends since they were sister, but she just did n't have a Passion for Quidditch. Neither did Kaden. He was another to cross off the inclination. John and Matt were the Quidditch fans. He 'd have to choose between them. Amanda liked Quidditch well enough, but she did n't accompany a team or anything.

"Those are determine variation tickets,"Ben said,"They do n't lie with who 's playing yet, so they do n't trade very many tickets ahead of time."

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

Lily burst into the room with a big grin on her brass. She was holding two just the ticket as well."Did you get Quidditch tickets ?"

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

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

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

"How did you get the just the ticket ?"he asked.

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

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

rosebush came downstairs a little while later and was impressed with the tag. She had no desire to go to the Cup and had no suggestions on how Albus was going to opt between John and Matt.

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

"Not under my ticker !"Molly shouted,"You ca n't see a fundament in straw man of you out there ! And it must be close to 15 below !"

"Maybe after lunch, then,"Teddy shrugged.

Molly shook her point and sighed as she set a few more platters of eggs and toast onto the table.

There was a smash on the doorway that could only just be heard over the howling wind. Molly glanced at Arthur, who shrugged and got up to see who it was. Albus followed, very curious to see who would chew the fat on Christmas forenoon in the middle of a huge blizzard.

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

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

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

"good, but if you feel it 's too debile, just let me know and I 'll go get some of my Jutispy plant. The leaves do wonderment on old edifice. Makes them like new. I just put a clump into my situation and it 's a good thing, too. Of class, they tend to draw Nargles ..."Xenophilius 's phonation trailed off.

"I 'll keep that in mind,"Chester A. Arthur smiled,"Are you spending the vacation alone ?"

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

"Then you must stick here a spell. Molly 's ready far too lots food for thought, like usual,"Chester A. Arthur spark advance Xeno into the kitchen.

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

mollie was more than glad to provide Xenophilius with a heavy phonograph record of breakfast and he settled down to talk over the tempest with the adults.

Albus spent most of the dawning playing Exploding Snap, virtuoso 's Chess, and Gobstones with his cousin-german. They tried to act hide and go seek, but the house was too crowded to play it properly.

Teddy and St. James the Apostle kept looking out the window, willing it to contain snowing. Both of them were just itching to go bring Quidditch. Albus would receive gladly gone and played if it would arrest snowing so much. He was dedicated to the plot, but not enough to dally in this tempest.

Lunchtime came and the snow was still falling. George VI went outside to measure out it and came back with the news that it was three and a one-half feet.

Teddy went upstairs after lunch and came back decked out in three jumpers, a thick cloak, and a pair of boots. Under one arm was his Scots heather and under the other was a box of Quidditch clod. James was right behind him, dressed the same.

"Theodore Remus lupin !"molly shouted,"I suppose I ca n't stop you from going out there and catching death of a cold, but I will not let you drag James with you !"

"He 's not dragging me, Grandma,"William James rolled his eyes,"I want to go !"

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

"fine,"mollie replied and went back into the kitchen.

"Excellent,"Teddy grinned,"Anyone aid to get together us ?"

GA, Fred, and broom suited up in warm wearing apparel and joined Teddy and James. Albus decided against it. Quidditch was fun, but he did n't need to freeze when he could stay inside and be warm.

The Christmas Quidditch lasted a half an hour. Teddy, James, GA, heather, and Fred all stumbled back into the firm shivering with their faces red and covered in C and ice. mollie immediately descended upon them with soft touch of hot chocolate and dry clothes.

"Told you, Molly,"Harry grinned.

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

Harry laughed."That does n't surprise me. You 'll see it when the tempest calms down. You put the charm on it to remain in the 1000, right ?"

"Y-yeah,"shimmy replied.

Xmas dinner came and went in its usual chaos. Xenophilius stayed for it and James II snuck sneezing powder into his soup, which he found incredibly funny. mollie was not as imprint and gave Saint James quite the objurgation. How she found out it was James was beyond Albus.

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

******

cypher left the Burrow until two day after Christmas. That was when the snow finally let up. It topped out at around four and a half understructure, which was a new criminal record for Albus 's lifetime. The tunnel 's railway yard had been decorated by scores of snowfall beldam and wizards, along with hippogriffs, owls, and a kind of former magical creatures.

When Albus found out what his family was doing after they left the burrow, he wished the snow would have kept coming. They were going shopping for dress robes for the New Year 's party.

"Why ca n't I just wear my old clothes robe ?"James whined as they walked down Diagon Alley towards Madam Malkin's.

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

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

"mammy, I want majestic robe,"Lily announced.

"If they have any,"Ginny replied.

Albus wanted to buy the first dyad of dress robes he found, so long as they were n't ping or purple. The sooner they were done robes shopping the better.

pink wine and Lily made a beeline for the girls dress gown as soon as they walked in the door. Albus stood awkwardly side by side to James while their mother found versatile robes for them.

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

"Very Slytherin,"James snickered.

"Shut it, William James,"Albus muttered.

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

Albus reluctantly tried on the Slytherin colored robe and then left the dressing elbow room for his mother to see.

"Too unretentive,"she announced,"But the colouring material is perfect. I 'll find a bigger size."

James wound up with a United States Navy gloomy yoke of gown, which Albus would have preferred. Lily found her empurple robes and Rose got a sky risque pair.

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

"No I wo n't. I do n't experience Green River eyes,"James grinned.

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

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


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome hoi polloi who have read and reviewed this ! Also, for anyone who read In Moon 's shadow, the first chapter of the sequel, Beyond the shadower, is now up !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The company was at the Minister 's Mansion, the house where all the rector of conjuring trick had lived. Albus had been there a few time before, but not in a twosome geezerhood. Usually all the party the Minister held were while Albus was at Hogwarts.

A few minute before the company, Ginny made Albus, James, and Lily all take exhibitioner and comb their hair properly. She spent a good fifteen hour trying to get James 's hair to lie flat and another fifteen hour putting Lily 's up in some sort of elaborate bun type thing. Albus was very happy his own whisker was far too short for that sort of thing.

Before they left, Albus 's parents sat him, Henry James, and Lily down on the couch and proceeded to tell them the regulation for the evening.

"Absolutely no making trouble !"Ginny stared at Jesse James as she said this,"None at all ! This is the pastor 's house ! I will not have you wreaking havoc in it."

"We 're trusting you to keep yourselves occupied during this. I 'm going to let to commix with everyone and we wo n't be able-bodied to watch you every sec,"Harry added,"You 're all at Hogwarts now. You 're old enough to not be glued to us for the evening."

"Do n't worry,"St. James the Apostle said,"I know when roguery is n't appropriate."

"Let 's hope so,"Ginny sighed.

Albus and his house Apparated to the diplomatic minister 's house, which meant side-along phantasma for Albus. He hated side-along phantasma. It felt like he could n't breath. It was worse when the person who was Apparating him was also Apparating another somebody, which was always the face in his family. It was the curse of being the middle child. He was either with James IV or Lily. This time it was with Lily and Harry was Apparating them.

When Albus had regained his power to breath properly, he looked around at where they had landed. He was standing on the front lawn of what was the most extravagant mansion he had ever seen. It could n't be considered a sign of the zodiac ; it was just too monstrous.

A long and winding sidewalk, framed with George Herbert Walker Bush and lights on either side, direct up to the front door. Albus 's parents started walking up and Albus followed.

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

Harry rang the bell when they arrived at the door and it was answered by the curate himself."Harry !"he shouted,"come in !"

Minister Langston Hartwell was the thirdly government minister since the free fall of master Voldemort. He was a grandiloquent, obese man with very picayune hair left on his head. He did feature a rather large moustache, which caused Albus to cerebrate of him as a much marvellous version of Professor Slughorn.

Hartwell was one of those very school wizards who spoke using very large words that Albus could n't really understand. He was tedious and to the highest degree of his speeches could be condensed down into a few sentences, according to Harry, that is. He was a very courteous man, though.

"rightfield this way,"Hartwell motioned for them to follow him.

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

The way was decorated with ash gray and dark and was already filling up with people. Albus spotted Rose and Matt in the spinal column of the elbow room and left his family in the doorway to go see them.

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

"This is the self-aggrandising theatre I 've ever seen,"rose wine agreed,"I see you 're wearing your Slytherin robes."

Albus rolled his centre."Shut it."

"What do you think, lusterlessness ?"rosiness turned to matte,"His mum says they match his heart, but James says they 're Slytherin robes."

"Slytherin,"matte said immediately.

"Then yours are Ravenclaw,"Albus pointed out, gesturing to flatness 's blue robes.

"I do n't deal,"Matt shrugged,"So, did you just get here ?"

"Yeah,"Albus replied.

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

"Bet that 's fun,"Albus laughed,"Do you know most of these people ?"

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

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

"Dad never thought he would either,"Matt laughed,"Then we 've got your Uncle Percy, I think you probably know him. Those people are a few of Dad 's colleagues,"Matt gestured to a few more witches and superstar,"Then there 's a crowd of people from early departments, but I do n't recall any of their names."

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

"Oh, it will be,"lustrelessness grinned,"When I was really trivial, we went to parties like this a few times a month. You make your own fun."

"Like what ?"Albus asked.

"Charming alcohol out of the wine and Champagne. It 'll still savour exactly the Saame,"Matt grinned mischievously,"By the time midnight rolls around, everyone will be wondering why they 're not wino. It 'll be funny."

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

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

"I have to admit, that 's really creative,"Rose giggled,"What else ?"

"Mostly stuff with the food. Charm the chocolates to taste like vanilla, charm the helping utensils to impress every time you go to pick them up, that sort of stuff,"Matt explained.

"My parents gave us this actor's line about how we ca n't play pranks here,"Albus said,"She was saying it mostly for Henry James, but I think she should 've given it to you."

"My parents never say that stuff to me,"Matt laughed,"They never suspect me of anything. The minute they find out the alcohol 's been charmed out of the drinks, they 'll come up Amy."

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

"It was my idea, though. She was n't originally going to do it at this party,"Matt explained.

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

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

"Oh, it 's great,"Amy grinned,"first base, only a couple mass notice and they make a very smooth mention to another mortal and then that person agrees that there 's something wrong with the drinks. Then it just snowballs from there until it 's all they 're talking about. Then someone will test the drinks, discover the alcohol 's been charmed away, supplant it, and then everyone will cheer. But some of them will act drunk because they think there 's alcohol in the drinks."

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

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

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

"You never know,"Matt shrugged.

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

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

"And I 'd bet my live on Galleon that Georgia and Thomas Bradley are talking about Quidditch,"Albus gestured to his former two first cousin, who were standing near the buffet.

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

"I would n't bet against that,"Albus said,"And Samantha and lindy hop will sneak out of the room the succeeding metre aunt Corrine looks away."

Albus 's aunty Corrine was talking with two witches Albus did n't know and his twin cousins were chasing each former around the room.

"Are any of your former full cousin coming ?"Amy asked.

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

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

Albus and pink wine agreed. Amy left to go talk to someone else and the three friend walked over to the counter. There was already a small waiting line in front of it.

"There go Samantha and lindy,"pink wine said as they waited. The twins ran out one of the doorway and Corrine quickly followed.

The queue moved quickly and soon Albus was in nominal head. He grabbed a plate and piled it high-pitched with just about everything. There was always the best food at this sort of company.

They found an empty table far enough away from St. James and Cedric. Albus did n't want to be anywhere near them when they did whatever they were planning on doing.

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

More and to a greater extent mass arrived as Albus ate his dinner party. He recognized a few of them, but did n't remember any names. He also noticed that cipher was acting strangely due to Amy 's charm. They were all acting perfectly normal for adult who had had a few drinks.

Albus, matte, and rosiness wandered around the room once they finished their food. A few adults stopped to exclaim how big they 'd stimulate and to inquire what yr they were at Hogwarts. Lily joined them because she did n't want to be associated with James IV and Cedric 's mischief.

"hi, everyone !"minister Hartwell shouted from the stump at the figurehead of the room.

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

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

The grownup all chuckled at Hartwell 's attempt at a jape and then quieted down once again.

"Yes, yes, well, this party is in honor of none other than Walter Eckerton, whom I have appointed to the situation of psyche of the department of regularisation and Control of Magical animal. There is no one else whom I would trust with such a job ...."

Hartwell 's voice communication soon descended into one of his common lecture, which Albus could not understand. It was long, drawn-out, and Albus could 've sworn he saw his dad oscitancy at one point.

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

"Thank you, curate,"McVicar began,"That was quite an interest speech. I, too, would like to congratulate Bruno Walter Eckerton on his promotion.

"I am certainly at least half of you were quite surprise to hear that I was retiring. I myself was surprised. In fact, I probably would n't have done it if it were n't for the fact that my wife has been begging me to for the past ten years.

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

"A little over five years ago, a man came into the Ministry looking for a job in the section of the regularisation and ascendancy of Magical wight. He applied for a job in Werewolf Support Services, a side that had been open for well over a year. I was make to lease anyone who walked through the door at that full point, but I had no idea what was to number when I hired Walter Eckerton.

"Some of you may know that Walter has experience in this field of study. He was the caput of the Department of Regulation and command of Magical Creatures in Commonwealth of Australia for three years before leaving the position in monastic order to move to England.

"Walter revolutionized Werewolf sustenance serving as soon as he started. The mind he had were ones that even I had n't thought of. In five short long time, he has bettered life sentence for those plagued with lycanthropy more than anyone else in the department have in their entire careers.

"It took only six months for me to clear that I wanted Bruno Walter to take over for me when I retired. Not only does he own the experience and word for the job, but he also has loyalty that I have never seen before. I even have to admit that his commitment surpasses my own. I have never seen anyone conflict as firmly for lycanthrope rights as he has.

"The only if thing left for me to do was convince myself it was time to sack out,"McVicar chuckled,"And yes, it did take the better part of five year to do that. But now, I feel very confident as I hand the reins over to Walter."

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

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

"Well,"mat 's dad began,"Thanks for your vote of assurance, Rob. I certainly hope I can go up to your expectations.

"I have to begin by saying how unexpected this was. I really had no intentions of becoming the fountainhead of the entire department again, no matter which country I was living in. lycanthrope funding serving has been such a bang-up place to work these past few geezerhood. It truly is my passion.

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

"Of course, I could not stimulate gotten to this blank space without the help of my wife, Julie,"he gestured to matte 's mum, who was standing near the ambo,"And my daughter, Amy, and my son, matt.

"I 'm not one for long spoken communication, so I 'll just say that I look forward to starting the job and I truly hope I can be at least half of the head of the section Rob has been."

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

"They 're too drunk to think much on it,"rose wine smirked.

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

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

A just portion of the adults were acting very drunk. In fact, if Albus had n't known about Amy 's charm, he would say they all really were rummy. The weird thing was that everybody was acting drunk. There did n't look to be anyone who was thinking there was something wrong with the drinks.

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

Amy was standing nearby, so Albus, lusterlessness, and pink wine squeezed their way through the crowd to get to her.

"Amy,"Matt whispered,"Why 's everyone acting normal ?

"I do n't have sex,"she whispered back,"Let 's go look at the drinks."

James and Cedric were also standing near the drinking table, looking nearly as confused as Albus felt about this appealingness. That was kind of strange.

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

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

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

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

"What did you do ?"Albus groaned.

"Cedric and I added some extra alcohol to that vino,"King James I whispered.

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

"What 's so funny ?"Cedric asked.

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

"I put a charm on all the vino to remove the alcohol, while keeping the gustatory modality,"Amy explained,"I did it right wing when the party started."

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

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

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

"What do you require to do now ?"Albus asked as King James I, Cedric, and Amy left.

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

"Is that allowed ?"Rose asked skeptically.

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

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

It was much quieter in the ease of the sign. They started wandering through any rooms that had open doors.

"This situation is so bloody phantasy,"Albus said.

"It reminds me of my grandparents'firm,"Matt said.

"Their house is this big ?"blush wine asked.

"Nearly,"Matt replied,"They 've got a ballroom and everything."

The three friends wound up in a very large living way filled with antique furniture. There was an oriental person carpet on the ground and oak tabular array and bookshelves around the perimeter. Atop the table were fondness vases of flowers and quartz sculptures.

"We 'd better be thrifty in here,"rosebush said as she walked into the room,"If we break any of this stuff, our parents would murder us."

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

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

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

"Look at all these books,"Albus gazed up at one of the bookcases,"Madam Pince would love to get her manus on these."

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

"Mum would like them,"Rose said

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

"Probably sure-enough than Aberforth Dumbledore,"Albus replied.

"Hey, Albus, matte, make out here,"rosiness said as she looked out the window.

Albus and Matt walked over to the window and leaned over the table that was in front of it.

"What is it ?"Albus asked.

"Look, there's-"

lustrelessness leaned farther over the tabular array and knocked one of the crystal sculptures off. rose wine gasped and managed to catch it before it crashed onto the floor.

"pigeon hawk,"blush wine whispered as she set it back on the table,"Be careful."

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

"There 's someone sneaking around out there,"rose said.

Albus peered out the window into the darkness. He could just barely make out a shadow lurking around the George W. Bush. It did n't front like the individual was walking up towards the mansion to go to the party. Plus, why would he show up three minute late ?

"There 's definitely someone out there,"Matt said.

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

"Albus Severus Potter, are you all-fired insane ?"rose exclaimed,"I think you are !"

"flavor, I just want to go see if we can feel out who it is. I 'm not saying we should go duel them. Plus, there 's a unit room full of Ministry officials in case whoever is out there is mortal bad,"Albus said.

"That 's a good detail,"lusterlessness replied,"Why would mortal sneak around a sign of the zodiac that 's full of Ministry functionary, especially when the two top Aurors are inside ?"

"I do n't know,"Albus said,"But I want to find out who it is."

Rose reluctantly agreed and followed Albus and matt, muttering under her breathing place. They found the nigh door and went out into the cold night, drawing their wands as they did so.

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

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

"Do you get a line anything ?"he whispered to Matt.

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

"trade good,"rosebush muttered,"Now let 's go back inside."

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

Albus continued creeping around the house, with his wand out in front of him. His ticker was beating fast and his hands were sweaty despite the cold. He did n't want to bar, though. Figuring out who this bloke was was exciting and face wracking at the Lapplander time.

"Do n't prompt !"someone shouted and all of a sudden there was a bright light in Albus 's eyes. wand light.

rosebush screamed and grabbed hold of Albus 's arm. Albus held up his own wand, his paw shaking.

"Who are you ?"the mortal shouted.

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

"He sounds familiar spirit,"matte whispered,"bent on. Bloody hell, that 's Professor Balladanis !"

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

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

"Er, yes,"Albus replied.

The wand light lowered and Albus heard the man step through the lead by the nose towards him. Albus saw that he was indeed Professor Balladanis. He breathed a sigh of relief as blush wine let go of his arm.

"Mr. Potter,"Balladanis said and then waved his wand around,"And miss Weasley, Mr. Eckerton. Oh, I suppose this party is for your Fatherhood, Mr. Eckerton ?"

"Y-yes, sir,"flatness replied.

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

"Told you,"Rose whispered to Albus.

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

"And you 're lucky it was me,"Balladanis barked,"The three of you could make been deadened if that somebody had been a dark wizard. Now, I 'm taking all three of you back inside."

Albus nodded and followed Balladanis through the Baron Snow of Leicester and towards the threshold."Sir,"Albus said,"If you do n't mind my asking, what were you doing exterior ?"

"If you must know, the Minister asked me to check the grounds in order to earn sure nobody was lurking around,"Balladanis replied.

That did nil but electric arc Albus 's curiosity even more. He knew in force than to press further, though. Balladanis was not one to explain his motives.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


It was nearing midnight when Albus, flatness, and Rose re-entered the construction, escorted by Professor Balladanis. Albus had been hoping the professor would just see them to the door and then continue his hunt of the perimeter, but instead he went back to the ballroom with them and marched them right up to Harry.

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

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

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

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

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

"attention to explain ?"Harry raised an eyebrow.

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

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

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

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

"I hope you 've learned your lesson,"Rose muttered,"I am not doing that again."

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

"10 !"somebody shouted.

Albus looked at the nearest clock and saw that it was almost midnight. Everyone else joined in the countdown, holding their glasses of bubbly in the air. Amy joined Albus, rosebush, and Matt.

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

The crowd began to dilute out a little while later. Most of the people Albus did n't roll in the hay left, along with his Uncle Percy, aunt Corrine, and his cousin-german. Albus 's parents did n't bet like they were in any haste to exit, so he got a crustal plate of the remnant sweet and at them with his friends.

rose 's family and Amy left, and then it was just the ceramicist, Matt, his parents, the Minister, and his wife left. All the adults were talking, King James was teasing Lily about something, and Albus and lusterlessness were finishing off the last of the desserts.

"Do you think there 's any way for Hogwarts to win the Quidditch tournament ?"mat asked as he polished off a piece of chocolate cake.

"Only if Linda 's sick the day of one of the mate,"Albus sighed.

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

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

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

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

Albus waved good-by and then joined his mum, dad, Epistle of James, and Lily. They all said congratulations to Matt 's dad and then left the minister of religion 's Mansion. Albus peered into the bushes as he left, but there was no house of professor Balladanis.

******

The remainder of the Christmas holiday went by very slowly for Albus. He did all his homework, which was quite boring, and there was cypher to do after that. Rose was visiting her early grandparents and King James I was at Nathan 's house. Even Kaden was busy visiting his grandparents ( Vernon and genus Petunia ). He sent Albus a letter complaining about it, since the sojourn was also with Aunt margarin. Albus was very grateful that he did n't have to go. Neither of his parents had mentioned anything about visiting with Vernon and Petunia again.

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

"auntie oleomargarine has got to be the most horrible auntie in the entire world,"Kaden fumed,"My dad told her about trick a few months ago and she 's been awful ever since. I mean, she was always kind of atrocious, but now she 's forged. She just hates magic so much. She 's worse than my grandparents."

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

"Consider yourself lucky,"Kaden muttered,"I 'm guessing you lot had intimately holiday ?"

"We found Professor Balladanis lurking around the government minister 's Mansion,"Albus announced.

"What ?"John, Kaden, and Amanda shouted at the Sami time.

"I saw someone sneaking around away and Albus insisted we go investigate,"Rose said,"Turns out it was Balladanis and the parson had apparently asked him to check the priming coat for trouble."

"Did he find you ?"John asked.

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

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

"well, we could 've,"pink wine muttered.

"Weird though,"John said,"Why would the government minister think mortal would be hiding around his household ?"

"Does n't he have guards around anyway ?"Amanda asked,"The Muggle minister does."

"Again, that 's why it 's weird,"john replied,"He does consume guards."

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

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

"Again, weird,"whoremonger said.

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

"That settles it,"John announced,"Albus, you 've got to see out what he did before he started teaching United States Department of Defense ?"

"Why me ?"Albus asked.

"Because you 've got those special dueling lessons with him. He likes you for some reason. Of course of study, he also likes Malfoy. But that 's probably just because Malfoy 's a good dueler, too,"John explained.

"I 'll try,"Albus sighed,"But I really do n't imagine he 'll tell me."

"You never know,"St. John said.

******

"Quiet, tranquillise !"Balladanis shouted the pursual Tuesday, their first day of defense reaction after the holiday.

Albus immediately stopped talking to Matt and John and turned to face Balladanis. He was really hoping that the professor would say nothing about what happened at the political party and so far Balladanis was showing no remembrance of it.

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

"First, I 'll say that there is no time to not be thinking about defensive magic, as the wickedness arts do not take breaks for niggling things such as holidays.

"mo, in this condition we will begin to research puppet far more grave than hinkypunks and kappas. In this terminus we shall learn about those terrifying creatures such as acromantulas, basilisks, werewolf, dragons, and vampires."

Albus could n't help but glance at Linda when Balladanis said vampires. Balladanis had glanced at her as well, and he also glanced at lusterlessness when he said werewolves. Of class, he had looked at Albus when he said basilisks, so it did n't necessarily mean anything, but Albus had a feeling it did.

"As the headmaster would find it highly inappropriate for a firedrake to manifest itself in this classroom, we shall not be using the anamatek as often this full term,"Balladanis continued,"But we will be using it a few multiplication. You will find that there are More lectures in this term, much to my disfavour. There is null I would like easily than to teach you about acromantulas and loup-garou with pragmatic moral, but there are both laws and school dominion that prevent such lessons."

Albus and matte glanced at each early. It was official. professor Balladanis was insane. What variety of instructor would want to learn about dragons with survive dragons ? wellspring, Hagrid would, but he was n't the same as Balladanis.

"return out some lambskin,"Balladanis said,"We 're going to begin learning about acromantulas today ...."

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

"Divination is such a joke,"bathroom said as he tossed his bag onto the level and collapsed onto a couch,"We started crystallization ball gazing today. All I saw was a shipment of fog."

"I told you not to withdraw it,"Rose said as she pulled a stack of Quran out of her own bag.

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

"Palmistry was better,"Amanda said,"And Trelawney makes the hale thing worse."

"Trelawney could piss refutation bad,"Albus replied.

"Balladanis told us that he wished he could teach us about dark creatures using the anamatek,"Rose said,"Seriously, he wanted a basilisk to look in the midriff of the classroom."

"That would be stunned,"Kaden said as he unwrapped a Chocolate toad,"Those can toss off you with their eyes."

"I know,"rosebush said,"Balladanis is insane."

"Do you cerebrate that anamatek could move around into a werewolf if the lunation was n't full ?"John asked.

"Probably not,"Matt answered,"It would just be a savage. I think it would just be a savage any other fourth dimension of the calendar month, too, because there 's no way it could change by reversal someone into a werewolf by biting them."

"That 's good,"Albus said,"Because he did say that he 'd use the anamatek a few times this terminal figure. Wonder if he 'll have it work into a vampire."

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

"If you think of it that way, there 's no breaker point to ingest it call on into a fake wolfman either,"Rose pointed out.

"commodity point, I guess,"toilet muttered.

******

The residue of the week went by quickly. Albus had Quidditch practice Thursday evening, and Sir Henry Wood informed the unscathed team that they 'd beget rusty over the vacation. He also told them that the side by side match was in two week and they 'd be playing New York. If they won, they 'd be in second shoes.

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

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

"Mr. Potter,"Balladanis turned around and recognise Albus,"Is it safe to assume that you did not go wandering about late at night alone after New Year 's ?"

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

"Mr. Malfoy,"Balladanis said as Malfoy walked into the elbow room,"Now we may begin. I have decided that your agreement of the Protego appealingness is satisfactory so we are going to locomote on to something else.

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

"Because it 's well-off to duel someone who 's dizzy than person who is n't,"Malfoy said.

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

"Er, because you can get the individual tied up while they 're disoriented ? If they 're a sullen wizard you 're trying to beguile,"Albus replied.

"Another estimable understanding, but not the one I was thinking of,"Balladanis began to walk slowly around the room,"Wizards who are expecting to possess to duel other thaumaturge often keep multiple sceptre on their person. There are spells that can be performed on these wands to keep them attached to your robe or your existent body, spells that Expelliarmus wo n't overcome easily. However, these trance require constant concentration.

"If a wizard is hit with the magical spell I am about to teach you, they will suffer the absorption requisite to hold their extra baton affixed. Then, you can use Expelliarmus to get the surplus wands."

"Can you teach us that spell to keep extra sceptre in our robe ?"Malfoy asked.

"Perhaps towards the end of the yr. It takes Brobdingnagian tightness and witching energy to simultaneously perform that charm while dueling someone,"Balladanis explained,"For now, you will memorize the spell to disarm and disorient a individual at the same time.

"The incantation is 'Confundo-Expelliarmus'. A combination of Confundus and Expelliarmus. Mr. Malfoy, you will go first. When I say so, execute the spell against Mr. ceramicist. Mr. Potter, you may try and contain him using the Protego magic spell I taught you earlier."

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

"Now, Mr. Malfoy,"Balladanis muttered.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Malfoy shouted.

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

"livelihood going,"Balladanis said to Malfoy.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Malfoy shouted again.

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

Malfoy kept going and it took him five times to get out through Albus 's carapace. When it happened, Albus felt his wand leave alone his hand and was overcome by a moving ridge of vertigo at the Sami fourth dimension. He felt exactly like he had when he had gotten the flu the previous year, only without the fever.

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

Then, all of a sudden, the dizziness was gone. Albus shook his fountainhead and then looked up and saw Balladanis and Malfoy standing in front of him. Malfoy looked yarn-dye and Balladanis looked like he always did.

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

"No, sir,"Albus shook his head.

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

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

Balladanis gave Malfoy a few instant to get his shield up and then nodded at Albus to do the charm.

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

Much to Albus 's delight, he managed to break the shell on the fourth try. One to a lesser extent try than Malfoy had needed for Albus.

The spell hit Malfoy in the thorax and his wand soared towards Albus. Albus caught it and watched as Malfoy bent over and fell to the ground, much like Albus himself had done.

Balladanis gave Albus one of his rarified smiling and then pulled out his own wand. He waved it at Malfoy and Malfoy looked up.

"That was Weird,"Malfoy muttered.

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

Balladanis kept them at it for the better persona of an hour, past when Albus would throw liked to quit. It was exhausting to be hit with that spell sentence after time while trying to hold up a shell spell. Malfoy did n't appear to be faring much better and Albus thought he was even going to ask Balladanis to stop after a half hour, but Malfoy closed his mouth, obviously thinking near of it.

The practice was n't for naught, though. Albus managed to hold Malfoy off long and longer each prison term and although Malfoy was getting intimately at the cuticle good luck charm as well, Albus broke through it a few more times.

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

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

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

Balladanis gave Albus the unusual flavor he had ever seen. It was a mix of anger, unhappiness, and even repent. For a moment, Albus wished he had n't asked. It was too personal. He should have just told John they would n't be able to find out.

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

Albus was taken aback. That was to a greater extent than he had expected. He had thought Balladanis would have told him to mind his own job and get back to Gryffindor Tower before curfew. Albus was going to find out, he was just going to have to be patient.

Albus left the room as quickly as he could in his exhausted state, before Balladanis could change his mind about eventually telling Albus about his previous calling. The walk back to Gryffindor Tower seemed farseeing than usual and all Albus wanted to do was collapse into bed when he finally got there.

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

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

rosiness opened her mouth to speak and then closed her oculus, unable to do so. Albus turned to john and raised his eyebrows.

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

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

"Someone killed him,"John said in barely more than a whisper.

"Wh-what ?"Albus turned to appear at all his friends in turn of events. Matt nodded ever so slightly and then put his headway on his hands.

"Must 've just happened,"Saint John said,"They just found him. brothel keeper Rosmerta heard a commotion and Flooed here, to get the Auror on responsibility. By the time they got back, his shop was a complete mess inside and he was laying dead on the floor. Avada Kedavra. They 're searching Hogsmeade, the woodland, the grounds, and the schooling. Nobody 's allowed out of their commons suite and dormitories."

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

"Nobody even came in to separate us,"Albus replied, still in shock.

People were n't just randomly killed in Hogsmeade. That sort of affair just did n't encounter anymore. Not since Voldemort had been defeated. Well, professor Torro had been killed back before his first year and then that one witch from the Ministry had been killed over Christmas, but their killers had never been found and nothing had happened since.

"Why would anyone kill him ?"mat wondered aloud.

"Why would anyone kill anyone ?"rosiness replied.

The portrait cakehole opened and all the whispering stopped. Everyone looked to see who came in. It was prof Longbottom, looking worse for the wear. His gown were disheveled and his tie was askew.

"Aurors are still searching the castle and the grounds,"he told them,"I suggest you all try and get some quietus. The lookup will be long over by morning, so you will be free to allow for the common room then."

Albus and his friends looked at each former after Longbottom left. They wordlessly went up to their dormitories, Kaden going with Albus instead of to the instant years'hall. Nobody said anything as he curled up on the flooring with one of Albus 's spare mantle. Albus got into bed and stared at the ceiling. He had been so exhausted earlier, but now there was no way he 'd get much sleep that night.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Lunch was very subdued the future day. Most people had slept quite late since it was a Saturday. Every pupil of Hogwarts had their nose in a copy of the Prophet, be it their own or a friend 's. The staff table looked the same, with every prof either reading the seer or whispering with another professor, no dubiousness about what they 'd study.

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

HOGSMEADE SHOPKEEPER MURDERED

A noise in Dervish and Banges late
yesterday evening that sent one Hogsmeade
house physician to Hogwarts to find the Auror on
duty Pb to the discovery of the destruction
of a storekeeper.

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

An extensive search of Hogsmeade, the
forest, Hogwarts, and its grounds turned
up nil despite the 60 minutes Aurors spent
searching. No fingerprints were found on
the scene.

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

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

Anyone who knew Wisander knew he was a man
of very strong persuasion and did not waffle
to let others cognise his opinions. His most
Holocene editorials have explored the theme
of werewolf, vampire, and other so called
'half-breeds'right field. Aurors have declined
comment on whether they believe Wisander 's
newspaper column are a possible motive for his
slaying. Wisander 's obituary can be found
on Sir Frederick Handley Page five.

Albus set the paper down and his champion all resumed their seating room. Nobody said a discussion for a few minutes. Albus did n't know what to guess. The clause certainly made it seem like Wisander was killed because of his beliefs. However, it did n't exactly say what his notion were. Albus had n't ever read any of his editorial, so he could n't say either.

"What form of editorials did he write ?"lustrelessness asked quietly.

"I have no idea,"Albus replied, looking at his friend whose grimace was quite pale,"Want to go to the way ?"

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

Albus got up and was followed by all of his friends. John and Kaden each grabbed a stack of pledge before leaving. Even Rose and Amanda went with them instead of going off to study with Linda.

"Have any of you study his newspaper column ?"Matt asked as soon as they were in the Marauder 's Den.

Nobody had read them. Not even rose. Matt sighed and collapsed onto one of the couches."I 've got to find out what they were about. I do n't even know which would be better, him being for or against werewolf rights. If he 's for them, that means some fellow is on the loose killing people for wanting werewolf rights."

lustrelessness did n't even have to bear on for Albus to fuck why that worried him. Matt 's dad was possibly the braggart exponent of werewolf rights in all of Britain and everyone knew it. If someone had been killed just for writing about werewolf rightfulness, what would take place to mortal who was actually passing laws for them ?

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

"Why else would someone let killed him ?"Matt asked,"He was just a store owner in Hogsmeade."

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

"To frighten off mass,"Albus said quietly,"The defense lawyers instructor position used to be cursed, back when our parents were in school."

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

"The other option is n't often better,"Matt muttered,"If he did n't write editorials for wolfman right field, then he wrote them against them."

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

"Let 's go to the library,"rosebush said as she stood up,"They 'll own old copies of the oracle there."

Everyone agreed with this and they set off to the library. When they arrived, they were surprised to happen how crowded it was. Usually Saturdays were the day everyone put off their preparation and then Sundays were spent in the library.

Once they stepped inside, Albus saw that everyone was looking through old written matter of the prophet. Nearly every table had a few newspaper publisher on it and a few pupil poring over them. madam Pince was bustling about, no doubt worrying about whether the scholar would rip her valued newspapers.

"Might not be any leftover,"John muttered.

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

Saint John the Apostle was almost right. There was a very small smokestack of paper left. Albus grabbed them all and then they went to a secluded table towards the back of the library. Albus, Matt, and Rose each took a newsprint while St. John the Apostle, Kaden, and Amanda played tic-tac-toe on a spare bit of parchment.

Albus leafed through his newspaper, which was about two class old, until he got to the newspaper column section. In the very middle, in the braggy baptistry, was an editorial by Leroy Wisander.

healer, brewer TO incrimination, NOT MINISTRY OFFICIALS

As I was locking up my shop last night,
I noticed that it was a full lunar month. I
could not serve but retrieve of the poor
people plagued with lycanthropy
currently shut up while attacking
themselves.

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

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

And what variety of business are lycanthropes
often stuck with ? Menial, low-paying
ones. The jobs where they make hardly
enough money to pay the split and buy
food, let solitary buy a potion that
could vary their lives for the better.

I am absolutely shock that Healers
and potion brewers charge for this
crucial potion. They must be making
a nice profit. They can use the profits
to take overweening holiday while the
poor witches and sorcerer who buy it
struggle to give it.

There is only so a great deal Ministry functionary
can do. oral sex of lycanthrope Support services,
Walter Eckerton, says he would love to
give away free wolf's bane, but there just
is n't room for it in the budget.

What do I purpose ? I propose that Healers
and potion brewers give it away for free.
They have the abilities to brew it, not
the Ministry. almost healer claim to have a go at it
helping the great unwashed, but often it is those who
need it most, such as those with lycanthropy,
are often forced to go without, all because
those with the ability to brew it like
to feature a little extra expenditure money.

"aught in this one,"rose said as she shoved hers aside.

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

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

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

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

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

"Bloody Hell, that bloke must feature had so many enemies !"bathroom shouted as soon as they were back.

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

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

"He was just trying to put forward something up,"Rose replied,"And wait where it got him."

"Healers are n't like that. Most of the ones I 've met would establish away free wolfsbane, but it 's more complicated that that. The element are expensive and it takes forever to brew. Not to mention how difficult it is. There are n't many Healers who can brew it and even to the highest degree brewers ca n't brew it,"lustrelessness explained.

"That bloke did n't know the half of it,"John agreed,"My dad 's a Healer and he 'd love to break away unblock potions. It just does n't do work that way."

"My dad 's linked with that bloke,"Matt said quietly,"And now that he 's head of the full department, he 'll be passing more laws. Whoever killed Wisander 's not going to be happy."

"Your dad 's a really good wizard, though,"Albus pointed out to his worried booster,"Plus he works at the Ministry, where there are dozens of Aurors milling about. And your home is more protected than any other house I 've seen, well, except the pastor 's Mansion."

"I know, but it 's still not beneficial,"lusterlessness sighed.

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

******

Albus and his friend scoured the Daily Prophet every morning the following week. Every day there was an article about Wisander, the investigation, or both. So far the investigation had turned up nothing. The Aurors had questioned quite a few people, namely those very outspoken against werewolf and vampire rights, but the lookup had proved fruitless.

The articles about Wisander were far more matter to. It seemed that his editorial about Wolfsbane Potion was one of the tamer ones. Each day small pieces of his versatile column were being published. In one, he stated the reasons why werewolves should n't be locked up on full moons. The reasons were quite the absurd, but the Prophet had printed it anyway. Another column talked about why lamia should be allowed access to human to bite. He suggested using prisoners and allowing vampire to suck them dry. Thus helping vampires and reducing prison house cost at the Sami time.

"I reckon this feller was off his rock 'n' roll musician,"John announced at breakfast the next Sunday. He had just finished reading an clause about how Wisander spent a year living with a vampire tribe in Turkey when he was Thomas Young. They were some of the few people actually up at an early time of day, as Albus had Quidditch practice and bathroom had a morning hold with Filch for putting dungbombs in the toilets in Moaning myrtle 's bathroom the previous day.

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

"What are you doing after Quidditch practice ?"lav asked.

"After Quidditch ?"Albus laughed,"You mean, I 'm going to get to give eventually ? Grant Wood wo n't progress to us practice for the succeeding workweek ? I thought he was going to keep going until the actual catch on Saturday."

"He 's got to let you out for social class,"John Lackland grinned.

"What a disgrace,"Albus rolled his eyes,"Anyway, I 'll probably have to do homework, since pattern will go until late. How about you ? Any programme for after detainment ?"

"Thought I might garner another custody,"bathroom grinned,"But Kaden 's busy with chess nightclub this afternoon-"

"time lag,"Albus nearly choked on his juice,"Kaden joined the cheat club ? Kaden ? Kaden Dursley ?"

"Know any early Kadens ?"lav laughed,"rose wine said they want to teach him how to play properly, you know, like a challenge of sorts."

"I 'll tell blush wine skillful luck with that,"Albus said.

"Yeah, so both Kaden and Rose will be busy with that. Not that rosiness would want to realize hold with me anyway. And Amanda 's doing something with Linda today, preparation, I think. And I doubt Matt will be up for doing anything,"John continued.

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

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

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

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

"fountainhead, have fun in your detainment. I 've got to get to exercise,"Albus said as he got up.

There were a few selection tidings Albus had for practice that day. Long, grueling, and intense. woodwind instrument was in his finest variant as he ordered the team to do exercise minute after hour. He seemed to get more and More stressed as the day wore on.

Saint James the Apostle did a lot of one-on-one grooming with Teddy and Albus was more than a petty jealous. shift was a much more patient captain than wood was and yelled a whole lot less. Tyler pike mostly helped Wood.

Wood let them stimulate a curt prison-breaking for lunch, making sure they knew to come back afterwards. Albus heard the Slytherins on the team talking about skipping out of the rest of pattern, but they were back on the slant at the clip woodwind instrument told them to be.

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

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

"Remember, praxis Tuesday evening !"Wood shouted as the unscathed squad rushed to get off the pitch.

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

Rose, Amanda, and Linda were in the coarse room, but the son were n't. Albus figured they were in the Marauder 's Den and set off to look for them after saying a promptly hi to the girls.

King John and Kaden were in the midriff of a stir up secret plan of Exploding Snap when Albus walked into the Marauder 's Den a few proceedings later. John 's face was full of ash, but Kaden 's was quite fair. There was also a big smiling on his font which contrasted the scowl on john 's face. matt was laying on the cast facing them, like he had been watching the game, but he was sound asleep.

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

"Grueling. Wood 's ten meter worse than Georgia. Five 60 minutes we were out there. Five bloody hours in the cold !"Albus groaned as he collapsed onto the other couch.

"wagerer than scrubbing Moaning Vinca minor 's john with a toothbrush,"John muttered,"I do n't know what was bad, the scrub or listening to Myrtle."

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

"Can you blame us ?"Albus muttered.

"No, not really,"Kaden shrugged.

"How was chess ?"Albus asked.

"I got beaten by every single person in the chess cabaret,"Kaden shook his head,"But they think I have potential."

"Albus,"John said as the cards blew up in his facial expression again,"Have you done that Defense essay ?

"No,"Albus groaned.

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

Albus groaned again and fished around in his own bag for his defense force Good Book. Balladanis wanted a foot long essay about basilisks, which were the current dark creature of the hebdomad.

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

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

"Toad,"Albus mumbled.

"You know, I could pull a Rose and recite you to do your essay,"King John replied.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Albus managed to get in a somewhat comfortable position on the couch and wrote his essay with his Word and sheepskin perched on his articulatio genus. It beat sitting at the table ; at least he was capable to sort of lie down.

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

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

John got up and began to prod flatness 's arm. It took a sound two minutes for Matt to open his eyes.

"It 's nearly six,"St. John the Apostle told him.

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

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

"I 'll go with you to the infirmary backstage,"John said and lustrelessness did not object. Albus assured him they 'd impose him the next day and then they left, leaving Albus and Kaden alone in the room.

John the Evangelist returned a footling while later and the three of them went down to dinner. They returned to the Marauder 's Den afterwards and John and Kaden continued working on their homework while Albus slept on the couch.

******

"Albus, get up !"

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

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

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

"Albus, you 'd better get up now. Wood 's in the coarse room,"shimmy whispered.

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

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

Now Albus was wide awake."Seriously ? What about O'delle ?"Hailey O'delle was the other reserve Chaser, a one-seventh year Slytherin.

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

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

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

shimmy nodded and left. Albus threw on a T-shirt and a span of jeans before running down to the vulgar elbow room, where he found King Oliver Wood pacing in front line of the empty fire.

"Albus,"he said as soon as Albus stepped into the common elbow room,"You 're playing chaser today."

Albus nodded and sat down for what was sure to be a very longsighted manner of speaking. Sir Henry Wood paused and then launched into an explanation of tactics, which Albus had already heard during praxis that week. He could n't forecast out why he had to be woken up at six to be told he was playing. Wood could have accomplished the same affair at ten.

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

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

Albus sat in the common room reading a script he found laying around until his friends got up around ten.

"There you are,"mat, who was looking significantly better than he had a few twenty-four hours ago, said,"What meter did you get up ?"

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

"What ?"Matt shouted,"That 's brilliant !"

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

"Fielding 's sick and so is the other military reserve chaser,"Albus explained,"I 'm just glad we 're playing New House of York and not Australia."

Albus went to the Great Hall to eat lunch with his supporter, but he was n't really hungry. He did n't think he had ever been more nervous for a Quidditch lucifer. This was a really important match, as woodwind instrument had pointed out numerous sentence. If they won by a wide of the mark enough margin, they 'd be in moment place.

Christian Bible had gotten around that Albus was playing in the friction match and numerous people came over to the Gryffindor mesa to wish Albus luck.

"Al,"Harry sat down next to Albus.

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

"I 'll be watching the whole clip. I 'm sure you 're going to do great. Just think of it as a match against another home. Ravenclaw, I guess, since their gown are drear,"Harry grinned,"trade good luck."

"Thanks,"Albus replied.

Albus left with the rest of the Hogwarts squad a few minutes later. All his friends wished him good luck as he left the Hall.

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

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


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

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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Ten minutes into the match, Albus decided there were four case of Quidditch in the world. chance Quidditch, like what he played with his cousin-german ; school Quidditch ; professional Quidditch ; and then there was the eccentric of Quidditch he was playing now.

It was a combination of schooltime Quidditch and pro Quidditch. The crowd was louder, the players more determined, and the post were higher than a convention schoolhouse Quidditch match.

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

Albus pushed his heather to fly faster and held the Quaffle tighter to his thorax. Then he plunged down to the solid ground, where nonentity else was flying. He was back up gamy two hour later when he had reached the New York goal posts. After dodging a Bludger, he threw the Quaffle into the provide goal Emily Price Post. The Keeper was too slow and the Quaffle soared through.

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

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

The Quaffle continued to exchange hands quickly as the mates went on. An hour later there was still no house of the Snitch and both teams were neck in neck as far as points went. New York was up by ten.

Albus scored a few more goal and he began to relax a trivial. The match began to feel more like a school equal and less like a professional match, even though the wager were still high.

Sir Henry Joseph Wood had repeated over and over again that they had to be up by at least l detail when James caught the sneaker, or they would n't be able to overwhelm New House of York as far as overall degree went.

"New York 's searcher has seen the stool pigeon !"metalworker announced.

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

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

The crowd roared and Jesse James held the snitch senior high school above his head. Both team flew to the priming and Albus saw the ail expression on Wood 's nerve. They had n't won by enough to be in second place overall.

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

Wood nodded in agreement, but he still looked disappointed. Albus chose to brush off this and helped the rest of the team to hoist Saint James the Apostle onto all of their shoulders.

"To update everyone on the stop, the Australian School of necromancy is in first spot. New York and Hogwarts are currently tied for second. The next mates will claim place at the end of February !"David Smith told the crowd.

Albus did n't meet up with his friends until they were back in the usual room. teddy bear had gone to Hogsmeade and a political party was currently underway in the Gryffindor mutual room. Teddy informed everyone that the three early houses were hosting parties as well. The students from New York who had been sorted into Gryffindor, including their Seeker, were sulking in a corner.

"I think that was your substantially compeer yet,"John said to Albus as they settled down at their usual table.

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

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

"Doubt it,"Albus replied,"asset, I 'm certainly O'delle will get first off dibs on the following match if any of the former Chasers get sick."

"At least you got to make for in one catch,"Rose pointed out.

"Anyway, the next compeer you 'll probably be playing Australia,"lustrelessness said.

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

The political party continued until dinner clip, when people began to leave as nonentity had snuck down to the kitchens to get food. Harry came in to felicitate Albus and James shortly before Albus and his friends left for dinner. He was also scheduled to patrol the school for the remnant of the weekend and wanted to let his shaver know.

******

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

However, the students at Hogwarts were reminded again of the unsolved murder when the next Hogsmeade trip arrived two days after Valentine 's Day. A portion of the students were too lovesick to notice the boarded up workshop of Dervish and Banges as they made their way to gentlewoman Puddifoot's.

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

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

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

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

Albus did n't think it was a good clip to cue lusterlessness that Severus Snape had been murdered inside of the screech Shack.

"Good peak,"Albus said,"But so far they have n't found anything."

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

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

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

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

"Albus,"they said again.

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

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

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

Albus immediately stood up and motioned for Matt and John, who were both looking confused, to follow him. He assumed Kaden would follow as well. Albus lead them up senior high school Street until they reached the shriek hut. cipher was hanging around it that day.

"Kaden !"Albus seethed,"You do realize how pudding head this was."

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

"Bloody pit !"whoremonger shouted.

"You stole the cloak ?"lusterlessness asked.

"Kaden, you idiot !"Albus shouted,"I know I first told you this would be a good sentence, but there was a reason I changed my thinker and told you not to slip in today. well-nigh of the instructor come to Hogsmeade for the February head trip. My first cousin told me. They want to nominate sure no one does anything stupid because they 're in love or whatever."

"Er,"Kaden muttered.

"How did you get in ?"Matt asked.

"One-eyed Wiccan statue,"Kaden replied,"jumper cable right into Honeyduke's."

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

Kaden 's face turned White and his mouth dropped open. Albus turned around to see what he was looking at and was met side to facial expression with Professor Balladanis.

"Quite difficult, I 'd expect,"Balladanis replied,"Come with me, all of you."

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

cypher spoke until they were shut in Balladanis 's discipline. Balladanis sat down in his professorship and looked at Kaden.

"Explain,"Balladanis said.

"They had nothing to do with it,"Kaden said quickly,"Albus was just telling me how pudding head I was."

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

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

"Very well,"Balladanis said,"Mr. potter, Mr. Eckerton, and Mr. Brickston, you may turn back to your common way. Mr. Dursley will join you after I arrange his detention."

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

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

"Detention every Saturday for the future month,"Kaden muttered,"Plus he gave me a lecture about how dangerous it was for me to sneak out and if I did it again I 'd get a sorry penalization than detention. Did n't elaborate on that, though."

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

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

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

******

Kaden discovered what his detention was that night. Balladanis decided to have got him alphabetize his private program library, which was quite extensive. Kaden returned to the piranha 's Den rant about the amount of record book Balladanis had.

"He 's got more books on night fauna than your dad 's got,"Kaden said to Matt.

"That 's impressive,"Matt replied.

"Wish he had less,"Kaden muttered.

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

The side by side fully moonshine came and went, as did the succeeding Quidditch equal. Albus was beginning to suspect that the full moon were becoming worse for flatness, although he did n't know why.

New York lost miserably to Australia in the Quidditch match. They had been doing pretty well until Linda caught the stoolpigeon a half hour in. wood insisted that this was a respectable thing, though. It meant that if Hogwarts managed to score a good total of destination before Linda caught the Snitch in their adjacent match, they would deliver more boilersuit pointedness than New House of York. forest seemed to have lost any hope that James could stupefy Linda in Seeking, something James fumed about on a nigh daily basis.

March arrived and with it a three day rain storm that left the footing completely flooded. Both Herbology and Care of Magical puppet had to admit property inside, which resulted in incredibly irksome lessons. Wood continued to concur Quiditch practice and Albus returned to the castle completely soaked and covered in mud after each one.

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

Balladanis conducted his deterrent example as if end of terminal figure exam did not be. He changed nothing about his lessons except the dark fauna they were learning about.

"We 're starting lamia next week,"Balladanis announced at the end of class on Thursday,"Please read the chapter on them by Monday."

Albus could n't help but take care at Linda before he began packing up his affair. He wondered if Balladanis would be teaching them adequate about identifying vampire for anyone to figure out that Linda was one.

"So,"John said as he flipped through his defense team book the following evening. Albus, matte, John, and Kaden were in the marauder 's Den and John the Divine was just finishing the chapter on lamia."Look what 's after vampires.

Albus looked through his own al-Qur'an."Werewolves,"he said quietly and then looked at Matt.

"Yeah,"lusterlessness muttered,"It was bound to happen eventually."

"I wonder if Balladanis is going to make you go in for supernumerary help during that unit,"John grinned,"I 'm for sure you 'll ask scores of extra help in identifying werewolves."

Matt rolled his eyes."He dependable. It 'll look suspicious if I do n't go in for extra help. oral presentation of extra help, we 're due to go in for it in fifteen minutes."

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

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

The desks were n't pushed to the sides of the classroom when Albus entered. Balladanis was seated behind his desk and there was a stone lavatory sitting on it. Balladanis was pulling silvery strings of something out of his head and placing them in the basin.

It was a pensieve and the strings were memories, Albus realized. For a moment, he thought that maybe Balladanis had cancelled dueling and neglected to tell him.

"Sir ?"Albus asked hesitantly.

"Mr. ceramist,"Balladanis said quietly,"seed in."

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

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

Albus glanced nervously at Malfoy. Balladanis was n't one for explanation, but Albus would have appreciated one right then.

"This is a pensieve,"Balladanis said,"It is used to explore memories. That is exactly what we 're going to do. Albus, incline forward and put your head into the pensieve. Your body will follow. Scorpio, you will follow. I will come after you."

Albus 's pulse sped up a piddling bit as he leaned over the pensieve. Was this a stupid idea ? He did n't even make out what he was getting into. But it was just a memory. Nothing could hurt him in a remembering, right ?

Albus took a deep intimation and plunged his facial expression into the pensieve. He had never been in one before. He landed on the hard grass and looked around.

It was dusk and very quiet. There was a small house in the aloofness, atop of a bouldery Benny Hill. In fact, the altogether area was mostly rocky. Albus had landed on the one lone piece of forage in the altogether stead. It did n't look like any seat in Britain.

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

"Follow me,"Balladanis said quietly.

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

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

"Hellenic Republic,"Balladanis replied.

This did nothing but increase Albus 's wonder. Why were they in Ellas of all places ? But he did n't ask. It did n't seem like Balladanis was in an explaining mood, judging by his short, one Scripture reply to Malfoy.

They walked quietly towards the small star sign. The only noise was their footstep. There were n't even any bird of night hooting or pawl barking. It struck Albus as very odd.

The sign must give been their destination. Balladanis stopped when they arrived at the broken down wooden fencing surrounding it. The theater reminded Albus of the shrieking hut, only smaller. It was form of broken down and did n't search like a place that would be good to experience in.

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

Balladanis made no move towards the house. Instead, he seemed focused on the woods that lay just beyond it. Albus decided the woods was as good a place as any to watch.

They watched the forest for a half an hour before anything happened. Then five hooded number practically flew out of the forest. They were at the theater before Albus even realized it. He looked at Balladanis. His side was hardened.

All was quiet for two instant. The frame entered the sign of the zodiac, but did not turn on any twinkle. Then the thigh-slapper started. Albus jumped at the sound of the start one.

They were agonizing, prospicient scream. Albus wanted nothing more than to go in and help whoever was screaming, but he knew he could n't. It was aught More than a memory. Instead, he looked again at Balladanis.

His prof 's grimace showed cypher. nada but the same season look he had seen on it so many times. Malfoy on the other hand, looked horrified. He looked exactly how Albus felt.

The screech was coming from two different the great unwashed. There was a high-pitched one that must get been coming from a woman, and a lower one that must consume been coming from a man.

Then, they stopped. first the adult female, then the man. The hooded figures left the house as quickly as they had entered and returned to the forest.

Balladanis, however, made no move to go away. Instead he stared at the house. Two minutes later, somebody fled from it.

They ran from the planetary house, towards Albus, Malfoy, and Balladanis. As they drew close-fitting, Albus could see that the person was a boy who looked no old than Albus himself. His face was etched with a sadness Albus had never seen before. It was too dark to recite, but Albus was for certain there were rip running down his face.

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


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Professor Balladanis did n't say anything for a long time after he, Albus, and Malfoy returned to the Department of Defense classroom. Albus landed next to Malfoy, still confused as to how he managed to get out of the pensieve, in forepart of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis landed behind his desk, facing the rampart, and did n't plough around for a few minutes.

Albus glanced nervously at his professor as he thought of motion he was just burning to ask. In fact, there was nothing about the fit he had just witnessed that did n't make Albus queer. Everything about it had been confusing.

Malfoy looked just as confused. They kept looking at each other and it was sort of strange. They were on the Lapp incline. Both of them wanted Balladanis to explain.

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

It happened in a dissever mo. Albus looked at his prof and immediately thought back to the nerve of the boy in the scene. That was why he looked associate. The boy was Balladanis. Then, Balladanis shifted slightly and the alikeness was gone. But Albus knew it. That picture had been from Balladanis 's childhood.

"Sit down,"Balladanis said.

Albus and Malfoy sat down quickly at the table in front of Balladanis 's desk. They were sitting right next to each early and Albus did n't manage. At the bit, finding out what that setting was was more important than staying away from Malfoy.

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

Balladanis paused and walked around to the presence of his desk. He began to pace in social movement of it.

"There is a reason why I am telling you this now. Why I am not explaining to all of my classes what I did before didactics. The reason is that you two are incredible duelers. Both of you have acquirement beyond your years that I have never seen before, and believe me, I have seen mess of exceptional dueler in my time. This may be a good metre to secernate you how rare it is to receive two such skilled dueler in the same year at Hogwarts."

Albus turned to look at Malfoy. What was Balladanis getting at ? It sounded like the beginning of some sort of planetary house 1 speech or something.

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

The resole reasonableness for that, at to the lowest degree for Albus, was because of Balladanis himself. Albus doubted he would stomach Albus and Malfoy bickering with each other during lessons.

"dorsum to what I was going to tell you,"Balladanis said,"That scene that I just showed you, in case you have not figured it out yet, took place while I was a boy of only XIII. It was the summer before my third year at school.

"I grew up in Hellenic Republic, in that very menage we just saw. My parents, although they loved me deeply, were very poor and could barely open to put food on the tabular array. I think they were grateful when I went away to school, the exclusive rationality being that they would n't have to worry about me getting enough to eat.

"I had two blissfully innocent and fun days at the Grecian school of Magic. I returned home during summers wide-cut of stories about my Friend and all the mischief we 'd stick into."

Albus found it hard to imagine Balladanis getting into trouble at school or doing anything fun in general.

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

Balladanis stopped talking and Albus sat in arrant shock. Balladanis 's parents had been murdered by vampire ? That was one affair that had never crossed Albus 's creative thinker.

"I returned to school that September hardened. Nothing was fun anymore. Nothing was funny. It was then that I decided to devote my life to ridding the world of such immorality. vampire, grim wizards, werewolves, anyone and anything that murders viciously."

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

"However, I did substantiate that not all vampires, werewolves, monster, and other beingness are inherently evil. Not all of them want to kill. It was for this understanding that I did not care to be employed by the Greek Ministry. The Greek Ministry prefers to mete out with magical creature as a unit and not distinguish between them. Perhaps this is because Ellas has a very large population of vampires.

"olibanum, becoming an Auror was out of the question. Instead, I chose to participate a more secretive profession. One that you will not get hold leaflet on when you get career advice from your heads of house. One that no one except me is going to paint a picture to you. Yet it is one that I believe the two of you are quite suited for."

Albus 's heart sped up at this. Balladanis was going to give them career advice ? They were only XIII. But at the Same time, Albus felt excited. Balladanis thought he was a good enough dueler for this career, whatever it was.

"I am a Presuler,"Balladanis said,"I am trusted neither of you have heard of one. A Presuler is somewhat like an Auror, in that we seek out dark wizards and black illusion. However, we not only seek out sorry wizards and dark magic, we seek out dark and serious creatures as well.

"The big difference is that Presulers are not employed by the Ministry. There are very few Presulers in the human race and we are often sought out by versatile Ministries and hired on an as-needed cornerstone. We travel from res publica to commonwealth, whenever we are needed. It is quite closemouthed. I suppose Presulers are a combination of Aurors and private investigators."

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

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

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

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

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

"Are you coming back next year ?"Malfoy asked.

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

Albus walked alongside Balladanis in muteness on his way back to the Gryffindor Tower. His mind was racing with what he just learned. He did n't roll in the hay what to make of it. It was just so much selective information at once.

The common room was nearly empty-bellied when Albus climbed through the portrait hole. It must have been really late, since it was Friday Nox. Albus really did n't know what time it was.

"There you are !"rose shouted,"Merlin, you 've been gone for hours !"

"What did he have you doing ?"matte asked.

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

Albus was vaguely aware of his friends suspiration of disappointment as he went up to his residence hall, but he did n't feel like talking about it right then. He was tired and his nous was racing at the Saami prison term.

Albus tossed and turned the entire night. He alternated thinking about what he had seen in the pensieve and about becoming a Presuler himself. Then he wound up thinking about Linda and what Balladanis thought of her. He had said he did n't hold a grudge against vampire that did n't vote down citizenry, but who knew what he really thought.

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

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

******

"Merlin, Albus, get up !"

Albus rolled over in his bed and put his pillow over his capitulum. After waking up drenched in swither at four in the sunrise after a nightmare in which his whole menage had been killed by vampire, he had finally drifted off into a somewhat decent sleep. One that he wished he was still in.

"It 's nearly one o'clock."

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

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

"Yeah, we want to jazz what happened last night."

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

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

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

The miss and Kaden met them in the Marauder 's Den after Albus, John, and Matt had lunch. bathroom kept pestering Albus all through luncheon, wanting to know why Linda could n't hear about it, but Albus said nothing. He was n't even sure enough if he was allowed to tell apart his Quaker about this, but Balladanis had n't really forbidden him.

"Albus, what in the figure of merlin happened final night ?"rose asked as soon as they were all in the Marauder 's Den.

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

"And you neglected to tell us until now ?"King John gaped,"I 've been wanting to know for the integral year !"

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

"Sorry,"John muttered.

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

"Really ?"rosebush looked shanghai,"What was that like ?"

"Not that large, to be honest,"Albus said,"Probably would feature been honorable if it was a better memory.

"Anyway, he took us without any explanation of what we were going to see. He took us to this really old broken down house in Greece. Kind of looked like a smaller more derelict version of the scream Shack."

"In Hellenic Republic ?"Kaden asked.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"We watched the family for what seemed like minute and then these figures broke into it and we heard this frightful shrieking. Then the figures left. Then this bloke who was about our age came running out with this horrible scared look on his face. Then we left."

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

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

nonentity said anything for a long fourth dimension. Albus looked at his friends and they all wore equal facial expression of shock.

"And you watched it ?"mat asked.

"From a distance,"Albus replied.

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

"He decided to dedicate his life to ridding the world of evil, whether it be vampires, dark wizards, or other wickedness creatures,"Albus continued.

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

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

"What is that ?"Kaden asked.

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

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

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

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

"All loup-garou have the capability of killing masses, Albus,"matte said quietly.

"So does everyone,"Albus replied.

"Whatever his view on vampires and werewolf truly is, it 's going to be interesting to see how he teaches us about them,"rosiness mused.

"surmisal this is why you did n't want Linda to get word about this,"toilet said.

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

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

"Oh, I 've got to tell you what he said after he told us all of this,"Albus took a deep breath,"He thinks Malfoy and I should turn Presulers."

"Seriously ?"Matt asked.

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

"You do n't consume to bang. You 're only thirteen. And Albus, do n't resolve anything until you 've read about this. Do n't just go on what Balladanis is saying. I think we 've finally discovered why he 's so passionate about fighting the wickedness Arts, but it might befog his judgment sometimes,"rosiness warned.

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

"Maybe because he does n't be after on staying,"Matt replied,"Why would he hold back searching for the vampires who killed his parents to learn here anyway ?"

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

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

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

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

******

Not thinking about Presulers and what happened to Balladanis 's parents proved to be easier said than done, especially since defense lawyers form was soon devoted to learning about lamia. Balladanis seemed to learn that especial unit with very much more exuberance than usual, a effort that nobody thought possible. Everyone speculated as to why Balladanis was more enthusiastic than usual, but most just attributed it to the fact that he was bloody insane.

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

However, partway through their second hebdomad devoted to vampires, the anamatek 's trunk reappeared in the demurrer classroom. There was an audible groan from every student who stepped into the room.

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

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

"That would n't be any better. We 're doing werewolves next,"John reminded him,"And Matt said that thing could n't turn into an actual wolfman. speechmaking of Matt, he 's golden he 's missing this."

"I think he 'd say otherwise,"Albus replied. The full moon had been the previous Nox.

"Quiet,"Balladanis said,"We 'll be continuing our vampire example today. Today I wish to usher you what a vampire looks like, which is why I have brought back the anamatek. However, you will not be fighting it. None of you have the science requisite to fight a vampire."

"He 's mental,"John muttered.

Balladanis drew his wand and pointed it at the trunk. It snapped undefendable and out stepped a very pale man with chiseled lineament. He did n't prompt, but merely stared out at all the students.

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

It reappeared in the back of the classroom, but it had not Apparated. The vampire had moved so fast that Albus had missed it in the winking of an eye.

"They 're agile,"Balladanis continued,"They 're in force looking. They attract you in. Then they kill, they suck you dry until you are short. The alternative is not great, either. From the moment their tooth expose your skin, you begin to transform into a vampire as well. You will turn one if they do not suck you dry. There is no way to stop over it, no potion to counteract it.

"vampire hunt at night when their visual sensation is still excellent, but when man vision is compromised. However, that is not the only reason. Does anyone know the former ?"

rose raised her script. Linda did not.

"Yes, missy Weasley ?"Balladanis said.

"lamia are in effect allergic to the sun,"rosiness explained,"When the sunlight hits them, it hurts them. The sun gives them concern and makes them feel sick."

"Precisely,"Balladanis gave her a uncommon smile,"There is no potion to weaken the result of the sun on vampires. Therefore they tend to inhabit area that see less sun and arena of dense woodland, such as the Northwestern and Northeastern United States, function of Canada, and persona of Russian Soviet Federated Socialist Republic. However there is also a significant vampire universe in Greece."

Balladanis pointed his wand at the vampire again and it retreated back into the trunk. Everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief. The lesson continued until the Alexander Graham Bell rang. Balladanis made no mention of moving onto the side by side social unit, nor had he assigned the usual end of the whole essay.

Albus and his protagonist went to visit Matt late that night after Albus got out of Quidditch practice. They only had a half minute or so until curfew, but they had n't visited at all yet.

"You missed an fantabulous defense force example today,"John said once Madam Pomfrey had gone back into her subject after leaving to see who had entered her ward.

"Was it any different from the usual ones ?"Matt asked tiredly. He looked cook to pass asleep at any moment.

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

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

"Yeah, he had it wrick into a vampire,"John said,"We did n't have to fight it. He just used it to show how fast lamia were and what they looked like."

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

"Nope,"Saint John the Apostle shook his foreland,"I think we 're in for a few more daytime of vampires."

"wellspring, the longer we spend on vampires, the more sentence we have before we start werewolves,"Matt said quietly,"I really hope he does n't spend as a great deal time on them as he has on vampires."

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

"Thank merlin for that,"matt yawned.

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

"We 'll be back tomorrow after lunch,"Albus told him,"Good night."

"'Night,"Matt said.

They left the Mary Augusta Arnold Ward just as brothel keeper Pomfrey was coming out of her study, presumably to narrate them to leave and yield Matt more potions. Albus and his friends headed straight for the commons room, where they got started on all the prep that had been piled on them that day.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



A few of Albus 's cousins had begun to take up stake on how long Balladanis was going to spend teaching the tierce years about lamia. Fred was sure he 'd drop the residuum of term, but Bradley was convinced he 'd move onto the next social unit partway through April. None of the tierce age were actually participating in these bets because they were all afraid Balladanis would receive out.

The vampire unit was still well underway when the side by side Quidditch match came along. This one was the second Hogwarts versus Australian schooltime of black art match, which meant forest was in his bloom when it came to practice. Albus considered just moving his bed to the changing room since he spent more of his time on the Quidditch Pitch than in the Gryffindor park room.

Albus awoke the day of the friction match to John 's brassy swearing instead of Teddy, which told him that he did not own to play during that match. He could n't help but feel slightly disappointed. Figuring there was no gunpoint in going back to sleep, he got up and asked John what happened.

"Tripped over lusterlessness 's bloody caldron,"toilet muttered, holding onto his right foot,"Why ca n't he just put that stupid matter away ?"

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

John muttered something indistinguishable and shoved his caldron under his bed. He went into the bathroom while Albus woke Matt up. The three of them met Kaden in the vulgar room a slight while later and then went down to the Great G. Stanley Hall to get something to eat.

A few hours later the boys were in the Quidditch stands, waiting for the match to begin. rose wine and Amanda were with them.

"marvel how yearn it 'll take Linda to find the Snitch this meter,"Albus mused.

"I 'm betting on ten minutes,"whoremonger said,"Hey, recall that metre we eavesdropped on Killigan ?"

"Yeah,"Albus replied,"Was n't Linda supposed to bug out flying slower after that ?"

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

"She probably wo n't this clip, either,"mat put in,"I mean, think about it, if James IV could fly that fast, would he really slow down to a normal focal ratio ?"

"Definitely not,"Albus sighed.

Matt 's prediction proved even up. Linda did not slow down in the slightest. She flew at her usual abnormally fast speed, beating James to the canary by a few curtilage. Luckily for Hogwarts, they had been ahead of Australia at that point and only wound up losing by forty distributor point.

This put Hogwarts quite a bit ahead of New York as far as Quidditch points went. Commonwealth of Australia was still in the lede, but they were not faring so well in the dueling tournament. As of the most Holocene tourney, Hogwarts was winning. Commonwealth of Australia was in finale property and New York was somewhere in between. Albus was pretty sure that if the Quidditch and dueling tournament points were added up, Hogwarts and Australia would be neck in neck. Whatever the effect of the remaining pass tournaments and matches, the finals for both were going to determine the victor of the rivalry. The points were just too close.

Although there was obviously no jubilation in the Gryffindor common room after the mate, nobody was particularly deject either. Albus figured this was because cipher had really expected Hogwarts to win anyway.

******

Two weeks into April, Bradley along with quite a few other elder Gryffindors, were capable to cash in on their stakes about Balladanis. Fred and a few others grumbled loudly about it as they handed over Galleons to the winners.

Balladanis had assigned the long wait essay on vampires on Thursday, officially making the vampire unit of measurement the longest whole they had done. They had spent an entire month and a half on it. The essay seemed to match this duration, as Balladanis wanted it to be two and a half feet.

Albus, flatness, and Saint John saved their essays for the last possible arcminute, settling down to work on them the day before they were due. It was n't a particularly hard essay because Balladanis had given them so much selective information on the national. It was just a very long essay to publish. rose wine and Amanda had done theirs over the weekend, presumably with Linda. Albus could n't help but be slightly jealous of them because doing the essay with an actual vampire would do it the easygoing essay ever.

"Bet Linda 's glad this building block 's over,"Albus said as they worked on their essays in the vulture 's Den Mon evening.

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

"How long is your essay, Rose ?"St. John the Apostle asked as he measured his own essay.

"Three feet,"Rose answered.

John groaned."Do you call back Balladanis will notice if mine 's three inches short ?"

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

"Maybe if we do n't finish it we can just skip class tomorrow,"lusterlessness muttered,"After all, I would n't want to show up in category without the essay done."

"But it 'll be speculative when you finally do go to year,"rosebush pointed out.

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

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

"Finished,"Albus announced.

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

"You know,"Albus said quietly,"nobody found out about Linda being a vampire even after we 've spent a calendar month and a half on them. I do n't think anyone 's going to find out you 're a werewolf just because we 're learning about them."

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

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

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

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

Albus, flatness, and John got a tardy start since John had misplaced his lamia essay. After finding it under his bed ( no one was sure how it go there ), the three boys rushed down to the Great lobby to grab slice of goner before running to Defense.

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

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

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

"I thought I would begin with werewolf story,"he announced,"cypher is sure as shooting when the first werewolf came about, but they have existed in nearly every wizarding finish. Not only that, but even ancient Muggle cultures have lycanthropy in their histories.

"century of days ago, before the Muggle force field of psychology came about and foresighted before Muggles had any understanding of the human judgment, they tried to get to mother wit of people whom they deemed 'insane'.

"One way they did this was to attribute the insanity to the moon. Over the yr, the myth of werewolves came about. Thus, lycanthrope have had a pregnant role in Muggle fib. In reality, the people Muggles accused of having lycanthropy were merely suffering from schizophrenia or bouts of insanity."

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

"Muggles of course know goose egg about real lycanthrope,"Balladanis continued,"And their Hollywood created werewolves have small in common with the genuine affair.

"wolfman are plagued with the illness lycanthropy. Does anyone know what that means ?"

pink wine was the only one who raised her script. Balladanis nodded to her."It comes from the Greek dustup 'lykos'and 'anthropos',"pink wine explained,"Lykos means Friedrich August Wolf and anthropos means man."

"Very good,"Balladanis replied,"Lycanthropy refers to the disease and those who have it are called lycanthropes.

"wolfman have been shunned by wizarding society for as long as chronicle has told us about them. In Holocene epoch years, there has been much conjecture about whether this is essential or even a good estimate. However, it is difficult to change the nous of the majority when we have been taught to head off lycanthropes and shun them from wizarding fellowship for so long.

"It has not been for no reason that this ecumenical prejudice has came about. When in savage cast, werewolves can not hold their actions and thus assail helpless mass. This has long been construed as lycanthropes wanting to attack people, wanting to infect them with the atrocious disease.

"This can not be farther from the sheath when it comes to most lycanthrope. almost do not wish to set on others. Within the by hundred days, lycanthropes have begun locking themselves up on the wide-cut moonlight in gild to debar attacking others. However, there is one meaning drawback to this for the loup-garou. Does anyone make love this ?"Balladanis 's eyes rested on Matt, but he continued staring down at his empty parchment.

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

Balladanis took Linda 's thought further, but Albus did n't hear what he said because matte had knocked over Albus 's ink. He looked incredibly queasy and Albus was happy that the social class was almost over. He quickly cleaned up the ink and tried to pay tending to the quietus of the lecture.

"We 'll foot up next course with what happens before, during, and after full moons for a someone with lycanthropy,"Balladanis announced shortly before the bell rang,"If you have not record the werewolf chapter, delight do so for side by side time. Mr. Eckerton, if you could delight number see me."

Matt looked, if it was possible, even more nervous at this prospect. The sleep of the class left and Albus tried to put away his things as slowly as potential, but Balladanis shooed him, along with John, out of the room.

Malfoy was standing outside the classroom when Albus and John left. He had a fragile smirk on his face.

"Interesting lesson, Potter,"Malfoy said quietly,"Very interesting indeed."

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

"Oh, cipher. Just a very illuminating lesson. I 've learned so much,"Malfoy replied and then sauntered off down the corridor.

"Merlin,"John muttered,"He knows."

"If he does n't yet, he 'll roll in the hay after adjacent lesson. He 's onto it, that 's for certainly,"Albus said.

"Onto it ?"King John replied,"That 's a nice way of putting it. The all school 's going to live in two twenty-four hours, after the next class."

"What are we going to do ?"Albus groaned,"If we tell him what Malfoy said, he 's going to be too scared to do anything. I mean, did you see him during this deterrent example ?"

"Yeah,"john nodded,"We ca n't tell him. Whatever Malfoy 's going to do, he 's going to do it whether lustrelessness knows about it or not."

"I agree,"Albus nodded,"We wo n't tell."

"What are you two talking about ?"mat appeared behind them, looking no better than he had before.

"cipher,"privy said,"What did Balladanis want ?"

"Told me I did n't hold to go to the excess aid during this unit unless I wanted to,"Matt told them.

"What are you going to do ?"St. John asked.

"I do n't know,"matt said as they began walking to Herbology,"I know it 'll appear suspicious if I do n't, but I really ca n't take many more object lesson like that. Falco columbarius, Thursday 's example is going to be awful."

Albus saw no point in time in denying that. Matt did n't have a clew as to how awful it would be. They said nothing more about it the whole way to Herbology.

******

Albus had never been so happy about having ridiculously long Quidditch practices as he was Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. He was perfectly happy to spend all his detached clock time on the Quidditch pitch shot and then be too tired to do much of anything else afterwards.

It was just so difficult for him to maintain what Malfoy said away from lustrelessness. He wanted nothing more than to warn his friend about it, even though he knew that would accomplish zero. All it would do was make lusterlessness care even more and then act even more queasy during Defense.

Quidditch also kept Albus 's brain off of what would happen after Malfoy 's distrust were confirmed. It would n't be anything like when Albus found out or even when Kaden found out. No, Malfoy was going to use this to his reward. Albus was nearly one hundred percentage indisputable Malfoy would announce it to all of Slytherin. Then, word would distribute and the entire schoolhouse would retrieve out. Falco columbarius only knew what would befall when scholar'parents found out.

Albus knew that werewolf rights had come a long way since chemise 's dad was in school, but he also knew that well-nigh citizenry would not be glad if their shaver were going to school with a werewolf, especially one that did not take Wolfsbane. Not to remark the field day the imperativeness would have with it. lusterlessness 's dad had just become heading of the department for the Regulation and command of Magical animate being for Merlin 's sake. It would be a repeat of what had happened when Matt and his menage had lived in Australia.

Not to observe what it would do to Matt himself. Albus remembered when there had been a fragile opportunity that Malfoy found out about the transition under the Whomping willow. He had nearly had a scare attack. What would happen if Malfoy found out he was a werewolf ?

It did not help that the wide-cut lunar month was that Friday. Matt barely spoke during the brief times that Albus was not occupied on the Quidditch pitch. He sat in the marauder 's Den with everyone else, but he stared off into space or slept.

Yes, Grant Wood 's long Quidditch practice took Albus 's judgment off of all of that, but they did not cease Thursday from arriving and Oklahoman than Albus would have liked he found himself sitting in Balladanis 's classroom.

Albus and St. John exchanged skittish glances as Malfoy walked in with a very smug flavour on his face. Albus was so focused on Malfoy that he nearly missed the fact that the anamatek 's proboscis was back in front line of Balladanis 's desk. Once he noticed it, he poked john in the side.

"What ?"John seethed. Albus gestured to the body."Merlin 's face fungus,"Gospel According to John exclaimed,"I do n't even want to know what he 's going to do with that."

"Quiet down,"Balladanis said,"We 'll proceed our loup-garou treatment today by talking about what happens to a lycanthrope when the Sun Myung Moon waxes.

"lycanthrope, in a similar way to vampires, are somewhat sensitized to the moonshine when the lunation waxes. For the few dark before the literal full moon, when exposed to moonlight wolfman will feel ill. The moonlight gives them headache and when exposed long enough, causes them to miss consciousness."

Albus did n't rag writing any of this down, as he knew first deal what happened when a werewolf was exposed to too much moonlight shortly before the wide-cut moon. Instead he stole quickly glances at Malfoy and matt. Malfoy was furiously writing down everything Balladanis said and stealing quick glances at Matt himself. lusterlessness was staring down at his sheepskin and Albus was sure he was trying to push aside everything Balladanis said. He was picket and ill, but Albus was n't sure enough if that was because of the object lesson or because the full-of-the-moon lunar month was the next day.

"loup-garou are often too ill to go about their daily activities the day of the replete moonlight and occasionally the day before as well. Before I describe the actual shift, I wish to show you what a person with lycanthropy looks like the day of the full moon."

For a legal brief second, Albus thought Balladanis was going to call lusterlessness to the front of the elbow room, but then realized that as a prof, Balladanis must bear promised Kendrick that he would n't do anything like that.

Balladanis pointed his wand at the trunk and a small man stepped out of it. His luridness looked exactly like matt 's and he looked just as ill. In fact, the two of them looked incredibly alike. Both of their faces bore cicatrix and had a sickly look to them.

Balladanis began to verbalise about what the anamatek looked like, but Albus paid no attention. Instead he looked to Malfoy. Malfoy stared at the anamatek for a bit or so with jar and then he glanced at Matt. Finally, he met Albus 's gaze and Albus saw the grownup smirk he had ever seen on the Slytherin 's face. That was it. Albus knew it. Malfoy had made the connection.

The remainder of the lesson passed by in a sort of fog for Albus. He and lav had exchanged glimpse and the flavor on John 's face told him he had noticed Malfoy 's realization as well. Albus heard Balladanis 's public lecture, but he did n't process it.

The object lesson seemed to drag on and speed by at the same clock time. Albus wanted it to be over so he could get out of there, but at the Lapplander time he did not want to roll in the hay what was going to happen after.

"Next example will focalise on wolfbane Potion and the issue it has had on werewolf rights,"Balladanis announced at the end of the deterrent example,"Class dismissed."

Albus and Saint John looked at each other. Albus did n't jazz what to do. Should he confront Malfoy ? Or should he severalise Matt what happened ? Matt seemed oblivious to the entirely thing.

They silently decided just to exit the schoolroom and decide what to do after. pink wine and Amanda had left with Linda with absolutely no idea what had happened.

Malfoy was waiting for them outside the way and Albus was not sure if this was a adept or a bad thing. He had the sudden itch just to hex Malfoy right then and there.

"Another enlightening moral,"Malfoy smirked,"Oh, Eckerton, feeling a bit ill ?"

"None of your business,"matt muttered. Albus and John both stepped a bit closer to him and Albus clenched his hand around his wand.

"Bet you 'll be feeling even worse tomorrow,"Malfoy replied,"It 's about that time of the month, is n't it ? Tomorrow night ?"

That got Matt 's attending. His capitulum snapped up and he glared at Malfoy. Then he turned around and looked from Albus to Saint John with the most terrified feeling on his face Albus had ever seen.

"It 's going to be a fun full phase of the moon moon, is n't it ?"Malfoy whispered, just flash enough for matt, Albus and John to hear.

Matt did n't say anything. He shook his head and then ran. He pushed through the crowd, much to the dislike of the students who were trying to get to course, and disappeared in a matter of seconds.

Albus suddenly felt more hatred for Malfoy than ever. Not only had he worked out Matt 's cloak-and-dagger, but he had used it to frighten off him. In essence, Malfoy had threatened him with it. That was one of the whip matter he could receive done.

Ignoring all the former educatee who were going to division, Albus pulled out his wand and had it against Malfoy 's chest in two seconds.

"If you tell anyone,"Albus growled,"I will personally piss certainly you 're so indistinguishable that even your own parents wo n't recognize you."

"Is that a threat, ceramicist ?"Malfoy pulled out his own wand.

"You need me to spell it out for you ?"Albus asked,"I think we 're about to determine out just how very much ameliorate I am at dueling than you are."

"Rictumsempra !"Malfoy shouted.

"Protego !"Albus shouted at the same time.

"Expelliarmus !"John shouted.

The bunch moved away so that there was a roach of looker-on surrounding the duel. Albus ignored them. It was just him, John, and Malfoy. And Malfoy was outnumbered.

Malfoy deflected john 's disarming spell and shot another spell at Albus. It bounced off Albus 's shell and hit a nearby portraiture. The portrait 's occupant shouted in disgust and moved into her neighbour 's frame.

Albus concentrated on his shield appeal and glared at Malfoy."Petrificus Totalus !"he shouted through his shield.

Grateful for Balladanis 's dueling example, Albus watched as his carapace held up while the hex shot at Malfoy. Unfortunately, Malfoy dodged it and sent a titillation jinx at John.

This one hit trick and he collapsed onto the level in a fit of giggles. Albus shot another hex at Malfoy and this one collided with his font. Malfoy 's nose started bleeding and he rounded on Albus.

"What is going on out here ?"Balladanis shouted.

Albus did n't turn down his scepter and neither did Malfoy, but they did n't fire off anymore curse either. Albus let his shield down and noticed that the crowd had dispersed. trick was still rolling around on the ground.

Balladanis pointed his wand at Saint John and privy immediately stopped giggling and stood up.

"Follow me,"Balladanis growled.

All three boys followed Balladanis into his study. Albus looked nervously at John Lackland. Of all the professor to catch them dueling, it had to be Balladanis. Of course of study, the one good matter about this was that Malfoy could n't announce mat 's lycanthropy to the entire schooling while Balladanis was lecturing them.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and Gospel According to John sat as far away as possible from Malfoy in Balladanis 's study. Balladanis just stared at them before speaking.

"I can not begin to tell you how disappointed I am in all of you,"Balladanis began,"Especially you, Mr. ceramicist and Mr. Malfoy. I am sure I taught you dependable than this. The two of you especially should get it on how uncalled for that was. You are well aware of your dueling skills and what variety of duty lies with them. I have half a head to discontinue our preparation Roger Sessions. However, I am willing to hear all side of this story before laying out any variety of punishment. You may go first, Mr. Malfoy."

"I was just walking to family and Potter pulled out his wand and attacked me. Then Brickston joined in. I was outnumbered, sir. I had to support myself,"Malfoy said.

Albus had to try hard not to snort. He and John looked at each other and John rolled his heart.

"Very well,"Balladanis said,"Mr. ceramicist, if you please."

Albus took a deep breathing space. He was going to tell the story. The unhurt narrative."Malfoy was threatening Matt, sir,"Albus began.

"Mr. Eckerton ?"Balladanis asked,"I did not see him anywhere."

"He left after Malfoy threatened him,"Albus continued,"You see, Malfoy has figured something out about lustrelessness, after listening to your lectures on werewolves."

Balladanis 's middle widened and he looked at Malfoy."Is that honest, Mr. Malfoy ?"

"Yes,"Malfoy muttered,"And I was n't threatening him. I was asking him about it. I think I have the right to have a go at it if I 'm in schoolhouse with a werewolf."

Malfoy said 'werewolf'with disgust and it made Albus want to hex him once more.

"Mr. Eckerton has the right hand to proceed his health check emergence to himself,"Balladanis replied,"His health is none of your clientele whatsoever. Please continue, Mr. Potter."

"After matte left, I wanted to be sure Malfoy was n't going to go tell the whole school about Matt 's lycanthropy,"Albus explained,"And I guess we just wound up dueling."

"Just hurt up dueling ?"Malfoy scoffed,"You had your wand on me."

"You sent the first hex,"Albus muttered.

"Do you have anything to add, Mr. Brickston ?"Balladanis asked.

"No,"whoremaster replied,"Albus is telling the truth."

"Very well,"Balladanis replied,"I see this matter goes much further than a duel. All three of you will encounter four nights'detention starting tonight at eight. Each of you have lost ten pointedness from your respective houses.

"However, I am taking all three of you to see the headmaster. There are matter more important to discuss than detentions,"Balladanis said as he stood up.

Albus knew wax well what Balladanis was insinuating. He and St. John the Apostle said nothing as they followed Balladanis to Kendrick 's work. Malfoy walked a few fundament behind them.

Albus had n't been to Kendrick 's discipline since his first yr, when he went to talk to Dumbledore 's portrait. The place had n't changed in the slightest. Everything seemed to be in the precise same place. Both Dumbledore and Snape were awake and in their portraits.

Kendrick was behind his desk writing something when they entered. He looked up curiously at them. Albus, toilet, and Malfoy stood near the threshold while Balladanis strode forward.

"We have a problem,"Balladanis said,"These three have been dueling."

"I trust you to paw out detention, genus Aplysia,"Kendrick replied,"I am fussy at the moment."

"It 's not the dueling,"Balladanis said,"It 's what they were dueling about."

"And what would that be ?"Kendrick asked.

"Mr. Malfoy has discovered that mat Eckerton is a lycanthrope,"Balladanis answered,"And I believe Mr. potter and Mr. Brickston have known for quite some time."

Kendrick dropped his quill feather and looked up."I 'll aim this from here. I believe you have a deterrent example to teach."

"I believe I do,"Balladanis replied and left the room.

Kendrick conjured a few chair and gestured for the three male child to join him at his desk. Albus sat down in the midway death chair and waited for Kendrick to begin. He noticed that both Dumbledore and Snape were paying rapt attention.

"Well, well,"Snape said,"Deja vu."

"Not now, Severus,"Kendrick said,"Mr. potter, perhaps you can secernate me if anyone else knows about matte 's lycanthropy ?"

"Er, yes,"Albus replied,"Rose Weasley, Amanda tagger, and Kaden Dursley."

"I knew that Dursley kid knew something,"Malfoy muttered.

"Not now, Mr. Malfoy,"Kendrick said,"I 'll need to mouth with them, as well as Matt. I imagine they 're all in class."

"Sir,"Albus interrupted,"I do n't consider matte 's in class."

"You may be right hand,"Kendrick sighed,"Do you have any estimate where he might be ?"

"Yes,"Albus answered.

"Very well. Please go find him,"Kendrick said,"And Mr. Brickston, please go find the others."

Albus nodded and he and John left the sketch. Albus went straight to the Marauder 's Den while John the Divine went to the dungeons as rose wine and Amanda would be in potions.

Matt was sitting on his bed in the marauder 's Den, staring at the paries and not moving a muscle.

"I suppose Malfoy 's told everyone,"Matt said without turning to seem at Albus. His vox was hollow.

"No,"Albus replied,"He has n't had the luck. John and I dueled him after you left. Balladanis gave us all four nights of detention and took full point away."

"He 'll tell everyone soon,"matte replied,"I should probably go pack. You know, I really thought I 'd get to finish shoal. That 's not even the worst component part. It 's going to be all over the Prophet. My dad 's going to turn a loss his job again. We 'll probably have to move to New York."

He finally turned around and looked at Albus. He no longer looked anxious. He looked absolutely terrified, yet sad at the same time.

"Why did Balladanis have to be such a good teacher ?"flatness groaned and laid back on the bed,"If he had been some sort of painful teacher then maybe Malfoy would n't have found out. He 's just so thorough ! He left nothing out ! Even the way he described the transformation. It was so, it was just so, realistic.

"And that pudding head anamatek !"flatness sat up and looked at Albus,"That thing looked just like me, only onetime. No wonder Malfoy found out."

"You 're not going to get kicked out,"Albus assured him.

"How do you bed ?"matte shouted,"How do you really jazz ? I know Teddy 's dad got to stick after Snape found out, but this is different. That was when Dumbledore was here ! Everyone says Dumbledore was barking mad. Kendrick is n't. Kendrick 's perfectly reasonable and he 's not going to want to deal with this."

Albus did n't really know what to say to that. Everything mat said was dependable. Kendrick was not Dumbledore. Nobody could compare to Dumbledore.

"Kendrick wants to see you,"Albus said,"He 's got Malfoy up in his report. He wants to babble to all of us. Me, St. John, blush wine, Amanda, and Kaden."

"I do n't require to go up there,"Matt said,"I never want to see Malfoy again. I just want to appease here. Falco columbarius, my pass is killing me."

"I think you have to go,"Albus said quietly.

"I know,"Matt groaned and got up off the bed,"This just is n't average. I hate it. I hate this unharmed thing. I do n't desire to be a all-fired werewolf anymore."

"I know,"Albus said, knowing just how pitiable lusterlessness was at that moment. Albus had never once heard him sound off about being a werewolf. Not when he was too wear out to do anything because of the full synodic month or when he was laid up in the hospital extension for days afterwards.

They walked quietly back to Kendrick 's study. Albus muttered the countersign, that he had overheard Balladanis say, to the gargoyle and they ascended into the study.

Everyone else was already there and they all turned to Albus and mat when they walked in. matt froze in position and Albus stopped and looked at him. He was staring directly at Malfoy.

"Take a derriere,"Kendrick gestured to the two abandon chairs, one of which was next to Malfoy's.

Albus took the can next to Malfoy 's, but did n't look at him. lusterlessness took the early one.

"showtime, I want to assure you that you do not suffer to go away Hogwarts,"Kendrick said to Matt,"cipher else will be finding out about your lycanthropy."

Matt did n't count reassured by this. Malfoy looked mutinous.

"My father wo n't agree with that,"Malfoy muttered.

"Your father has no say whatsoever in which scholarly person I admit to this school,"Kendrick replied,"He works in the Ministry, and may I point out that his spatial relation is not very high."

"lusterlessness,"Kendrick turned away from Malfoy,"Department of Energy anyone else know ?"Matt shook his headland."And did you tell the others, besides Mr. Malfoy, willingly ?"Kendrick continued. Matt nodded.

"Very well,"Kendrick said,"And how long have they known ?"

flatness seemed unable to speak. After a few second of silence, Kendrick turned to Albus."How long have you known, Mr. Potter ?"

"Two years,"Albus answered.

Kendrick repeated this question with Rose, John the Divine, and Amanda, who all gave the like solvent as Albus. Then he moved onto Kaden and Albus suddenly remembered the Sileo Altus charm. He shared one horrified glance with Rose and waited for Kaden 's reply.

Kaden looked at Kendrick and then turned to Albus. His mouthpiece was agape and he looked a little panicky.

"Are you all right, Mr. Dursley ?"Kendrick asked.

"Fine,"Kaden answered,"It 's just, well ...."

"Professor, Sir,"rosiness began,"We sort of put this charm on Kaden, so he would n't secernate anyone. He can only lecture about it with us. He wo n't be able to say a matter about it around you or Malfoy."

Albus braced himself for Kendrick 's answer, but before the headmaster could say a word, Dumbledore chuckled in his frame.

"The Sileo Altus spell,"Dumbledore smiled,"Ingenious. Who performed it ?"

"I did,"Rose answered.

"Remarkable,"Dumbledore said,"You must be an incredible witch, Miss Weasley."

"Too smart for her own right, more like it,"Snape muttered.

"That is indeed quite the astound exploit, Miss Weasley,"Kendrick said,"Can you evidence me how long Mr. Dursley has known ?"

"About a year,"rosebush said.

"Thank you,"Kendrick replied,"Now I have some things to discuss with Mr. Malfoy and Mr. Eckerton in private. The residuum of you may go to the Great Hall. I believe there is still a one-half hour or so left of lunch."

Albus did n't really desire to lead without finding out what was going to happen to Malfoy, but he knew mat would tell him.

Matt never showed up in the Great entrance hall for lunch, nor did he go to Ancient runic letter or Charms. Albus could not center on either of those social class and was very well-chosen when Charms was over and he was able to leave.

wood was not very happy that Albus had acquired four detentions. In fact, he was livid. He spent twenty dollar bill minute telling Albus how he should n't be picking fighting with other students so close to the adjacent Quidditch catch, especially in front of teacher'classrooms. The lecture had only ended when Albus told him he was former for Charms. Albus had run into woods in in between Ancient rune and Charms.

"What do you suppose Balladanis is going to establish us do ?"whoremaster asked as they walked towards the Marauder 's Den.

"Have n't a clew,"Albus replied,"But whatever it is, it 's going to be bad since we have to do it with Malfoy."

"True,"Gospel According to John agreed.

Rose, Kaden, and Amanda were with them. Albus wanted to go find matte before they went to dinner. They had to hold back a piece for the corridor to clear out before they were actually able to get into the room, though.

matt was fast asleep on the lounge when they entered."Good thing he does n't ingest custody tonight,"John pointed out.

"Yeah,"Albus agreed.

St. John gently shook lusterlessness 's shoulder until he cracked his eyes open."Wake up,"John said,"Or you 'll lose dinner."

"I 'm not thirsty,"Matt muttered.

"What 's Kendrick doing about Malfoy ?"Albus asked as he sat down on the early end of the couch.

"He should put that charm on him,"Kaden announced,"The one you lot put on me."

"I wish he would,"matte sighed,"All he did was separate Malfoy how important it was not to mention anything. He said telling his forefather would do nada. Then he told him that if he ever did recite anyone, he would front projection for revealing another scholarly person 's medical information. But that 's it ! I mean, Malfoy did promise he would n't say anything, but who really knows ? Sure, if he tells, he 'll be expelled, but that wo n't take up it back. I 'd still have to leave."

"As much as a git as he is,"Albus began,"I do n't think he 's going to tell anyone if it meant he 'd be expelled. That would be the ultimate disgrace in the Malfoy family, besides being a Squib or marrying a Muggle or something, getting expelled and not being a fully qualified wizard. Malfoy wo n't want that."

"I guess you 're properly,"Matt sighed,"It 's just so foreign, knowing that he knows."

"I know,"Albus said,"Do you want to go eat dinner ?"

"No,"matt shook his head,"You guys go on ahead. I 've got to send an owl to my parents, let them know about this."

Albus nodded."We 'll see you later, then. whoremaster and I have got detention tonight."

"Oh, right. right luck with that,"Matt replied.

******

Balladanis 's detention was a bit anticlimactic. Albus had been expecting him to call up up some really creative and taxing detention, but instead he assigned them pipeline. dividing line were possibly the most tedious hold ever thought up, but they were preferable to cleaning the bathrooms or something.

"ceramist, Malfoy,"Balladanis said after they 'd been writing for ten minutes,"Your dueling moral is canceled for tomorrow Night due to your detention. Detention will be at nine, after my supernumerary help session, something I 'll expect you to be attending, Brickston."

Balladanis said zip more and began grading essays at his desk. He completely ignored the three boys, which Albus did n't really mind. He just wanted to get his phone line done and get out of there.

"Where does he go ?"Malfoy hissed at Albus.

"What ?"Albus whispered.

"You know, on total moons, where does he go ?"Malfoy elaborated.

"I 'm not telling you that,"Albus muttered.

"My dad said a wolfman used to teach here, and he got fired when everyone found out,"Malfoy drawled.

"He quit,"Albus corrected him,"He was n't fired. He was the better vindication teacher any of our parents ever had."

"Quiet !"Balladanis shouted,"I did n't say you could talk."

Albus was thankful for Balladanis 's scolding. Malfoy stopped asking interrogative sentence and went back to his lines. Albus sighed and went back to his own. How far was Malfoy going to go ? Why could n't he just be satisfied with having worked out lustrelessness 's mystery ?

A half 60 minutes into their transmission line authorship, when Albus was contemplating switching hands despite the fact that he wrote horribly with his right hand, there was a bang on the room access. Albus looked up and saw Professor Kendrick standing in the doorway, along with none other than flatness 's dad. Albus set down his shaft and turned to John. lavatory had set down his own quill.

"Who 's that ?"Malfoy asked.

"Shush !"Albus hissed. The last matter they needed was for Balladanis to recollect they were there and tell them to get out so he could have whatever conversation he was about to have in private.

"Tethys,"Kendrick said quietly,"This is Bruno Walter Eckerton."

"We 've met,"Balladanis muttered.

Albus turned again to King John. mat 's dad knew Balladanis ? How ? Matt had never mentioned that before.

"That 's his dad ?"Malfoy whispered.

"Shush !"Albus said again.

"I wish to talk to you about what happened earliest today,"Matt 's dad said quietly.

"What about it, Eckerton ?"Balladanis asked.

"My son told me about your lesson,"Mr. Eckerton said,"How, informative they are."

"I teach my pupil what they 'll need to know in parliamentary law to fight themselves,"Balladanis replied.

"I think you go too far with that,"Mr. Eckerton disagreed,"Merlin, showing them exactly what a lycanthrope looks like before a transformation with an anamatek ? Do you realize how unsafe those are ?"

"Of line,"Balladanis said, raising his vocalism a bit,"You 're not the exclusively expert on magical creatures. I have pure mastery over my anamatek."

"Nobody has perfect control over an anamatek !"Mr. Eckerton said.

"The headmaster has already told me I 'm not allowed to use it anymore, so you really do n't need to be lecturing me about this,"Balladanis seethed.

"Oh, it 's not only that,"Mr. Eckerton stepped a bit closer to Balladanis,"It 's how much you taught the 3rd old age about werewolves. The contingent about their transformations, how to pick one out of the general universe, what happens before, during, and after transmutation. Your deterrent example was far more detailed than a third year text book."

"You 'd see that all my example are like that,"Balladanis replied,"text books do not give enough details."

"I think giving enough details about identifying a loup-garou so that a third twelvemonth would be able to do work out that somebody not even in their Same house is one is going too far,"Mr. Eckerton seethed,"You knew about my son. You should induce been a bit more timid with your lesson."

"withholding tax information from an entire class because of one educatee is not a in force method of educational activity,"Balladanis countered.

"It is when it could be dangerous for that one bookman,"Mr. Eckerton said,"Fan of the nifty good for the greatest turn, are we ?"

"There are times when that is a good philosophy,"Balladanis replied.

"We 'll agree to disagree, then,"Mr. Eckerton said,"But if I find that your example are putting my son in peril anymore, you may find that the Ministry is inquiring into your teaching practices."

"I 'll instruct however I like,"Balladanis muttered.

Mr. Eckerton ignored this and turned to the three boys, none of whom were writing origin any longer."Is that him ?"he asked.

"The one who found out ?"Kendrick replied,"Yes."

Mr. Eckerton strode over to the table Albus, whoremonger, and Malfoy were working at. He nodded hello to Albus and Gospel According to John before turning to Malfoy.

"I realize the headmaster has already gone over this with you,"Mr. Eckerton began,"But I feel the demand to retell that there will be aftermath if you make world my son 's condition."

Malfoy nodded."I know,"he muttered.

"trade good,"Mr. Eckerton replied and returned to where Kendrick was standing. He turned once again to Balladanis."I 'll be returning to the palace tomorrow to search your study and classroom for the anamatek. If it is still here, I will take it into custody."

Balladanis muttered something under his breathing spell as lusterlessness 's dad left the elbow room with prof Kendrick. Albus exchanged a glance with toilet. He wanted nothing more than to will, so he could spill the beans about what had just happened.

"That 's enough for tonight,"Balladanis barked,"Get out. Be back here tomorrow nighttime at nine."

Albus nearly spilled his ink in his haste to get up. He ran out of the room as fast as he could with John following. Malfoy made no move to try and verbalize to them again, so they headed straight to the Marauder 's Den.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and King John burst into the vulture 's Den a little while later to find that mat and Kaden were the only if unity there. Matt 's brass was covered in ash and Kaden was grinning. They were in the centre of a biz of Exploding Snap.

"And that makes four winnings for me and none for you,"Kaden announced as he collected the identity card,"Oh, Albus, John ! How was your detainment ? Want to play ?"

"Not now,"Albus said hurriedly as he sat down adjacent to matte,"Matt, did you know your dad was just here ?"

"Yeah,"Matt nodded,"When he got my owl, he wanted to go talk to Kendrick. I went with him."

"fountainhead, do you know where he went after ?"John the Divine asked.

"domicile, I guess,"Matt shrugged,"Why ?"

"He and Kendrick turned up in our detention,"John said.

"He what ?"matte replied.

"Yeah, it was really odd,"Albus said,"He came in with Kendrick and Kendrick introduced him to Balladanis. Only Balladanis said 'we 've met'. You never told us your dad knew Balladanis."

"I never knew,"Matt shrugged,"Then what happened ?"

"Your dad was really furious,"Albus continued,"He thinks Balladanis taught us too often about how to figure out if someone 's a werewolf and that 's why Malfoy found out. Then he told him how unsafe it was for him to use that anamatek in class-"

"Oh, yeah,"matt said,"I told my dad about the anamatek and that 's one of the reasons he came here, to secernate Kendrick about it. Kendrick 's making him get rid of it."

"Yeah, that 's what your dad said,"Albus replied,"He 's coming back to scrutinise Balladanis 's room tomorrow to make sure he got rid of it. He also said that if any of Balladanis 's educational activity puts you in danger again, the Ministry 's going to investigate him."

"It 's really not a unspoiled mind to get on my dad 's bad side,"Matt said,"What did Balladanis do during this ?"

"He kept saying that he was going to learn however he wanted,"Albus explained,"Honestly, he did not look glad that your dad was there. I think something happened between the two of them."

"But what ?"Matt asked,"Dad 's never mentioned him before."

"Think he 'd differentiate you if you asked ?"John wondered.

"Probably,"lusterlessness said,"I 'll owl him about it."

"Oh, and then your dad told Malfoy he 'd better not tell anyone you 're a werewolf,"John said,"He looked pretty scary, too. I do n't imagine Malfoy 's going to tell anyone."

******

It did not choose very long for parole to broadcast that Balladanis had gotten in worry for having an anamatek. Galleons exchanged hands the future break of day at breakfast, as a few onetime scholarly person had bet on how farsighted he would have it. Somehow everyone knew that mat 's dad had showed up at Hogwarts the late night and informed Kendrick about it.

Kaden had Defense that first light and reported to Albus at lunch that Balladanis was even hard-and-fast than usual and seemed incredibly angry. That did not bode well for Albus 's custody that evening.

"He 's downright shivery,"Kaden said as he piled steak and kidney pie onto his home plate,"Yelled at one of the Ravenclaws in my class for spilling her ink. She was nearly in snag. But I 'd hate to be in your class, Albus, he 's going to be vicious. I mean, it 's pretty often because of matt that he got in trouble."

Matt had gone up to the piranha 's Den after they got out of Herbology since he felt ill and was n't in lunch. Albus knew that Kaden was decently. Balladanis was going to remove this out on matte, and possibly Malfoy as well.

"I do n't know why he cares so much,"John shrugged,"I mean, the Ministry could have just taken that thing away. He 's favourable he just had to claim it back to his theatre or whatever."

"I do n't opine he likes the government,"Albus said,"That 's the feeling I got after listening to him talk about what he did before teaching here. I think that 's why he did that, instead of becoming an Auror."

"well, I think it 's a good thought for the Ministry to make him lead that matter place,"bathroom said.

"Me, too,"Albus agreed,"I mean, he could 've turned it into a manticore next."

Kaden went to course of instruction after dejeuner while Albus and John went up to the vulture 's Den with Rose and Amanda.

"Think he 's owled his dad yet ?"lavatory asked as he gestured to matt, who was asleep in his bed.

"Doubt it,"Albus said,"He 's probably been asleep since he got up here."

"Falco columbarius, I just want to be intimate what happened between his dad and Balladanis,"John groaned.

"You 're so raring,"Rose commented,"Just let him sleep."

"I was n't going to come alive him up,"John muttered.

The remainder of the afternoon passed by quickly. Albus was dreading his detention later and Saint John complained loudly about how he had to go to the surplus help session about werewolves when he already knew so much about them.

Albus woke Matt up shortly before dinner and he looked much worse than he usually did the day of full moon. They all escorted him to the hospital wing, where brothel keeper Pomfrey rushed him into bed.

Just as they were about to entrust the infirmary wing, the doors opened and in take the air Matt 's dad. Albus assumed he was there to check if Balladanis had gotten rid of his anamatek.

John nudged Albus."We should ask him about Balladanis,"Gospel According to John whispered.

"He 's not going to tell us now,"Albus muttered back,"feel at him."

Mr. Eckerton looked tired out and incredibly worried. He nodded to Albus and the others before rushing over to Matt 's bed and talking to gentlewoman Pomfrey in hushed whispers.

As it turned out, Albus had been worrying about the detention for nada. He entered the room before Malfoy and John was already doing his lines. Balladanis said absolutely nothing to Albus as he handed him lambskin. Malfoy arrived a slight while later and still Balladanis said nothing.

Malfoy did not spill the beans either. He did not ask anything about lusterlessness and did n't even point out that the full moon was that night.

Balladanis let them leave at half past ten. Albus and whoremaster found Kaden in the marauder 's Den and spent the remaining time left until astronomy playing Exploding snap fastener and Wizard 's Chess.

"Why, why do we have to let this class with the Slytherins ?"St. John groaned as they made their way to the Astronomy tugboat,"If Malfoy does n't ready a single gossip about the broad moon, I 'll eat an entire cauldron."

"I 'm going to hold you to that,"Albus laughed,"But I do n't intend you 'll have to."

Malfoy went so far as to actually set his telescope up next to Albus 's. professor Marco Polo spent ten minutes telling them that they were to plot the position of Mars, genus Venus, the moon, and a smattering of stars before turning them lose to actually do so.

"The moon is so burnished,"Malfoy whispered,"And big and ... full moon ...."

Albus looked at John."Looks like I wo n't be eating my cauldron tonight,"St. John the Apostle muttered.

"Just shut it, Malfoy,"Albus said.

"Is n't his dad the drumhead of the Department for the regulating and Control of Magical animate being ? Yeah, he must be, because he 's the one who made Balladanis get rid of the anamatek. Ca n't say I 'm really upset about that,"Malfoy said quietly,"But how ironic."

"Just stop talking about it,"Albus muttered.

"Oh, come on, Potter. Even you have to appreciate the irony,"Malfoy said.

"Will you just shut out up,"Albus seethed.

"tranquility over there,"Polo said.

Malfoy smirked at Albus one more time before going back to his telescope. The rest of the lesson passed without anymore comment from Malfoy and Albus was quite happy when he was able to return to his dormitory.

******

"It 's like back in 1st year,"Albus sighed,"Remember when gentlewoman Pomfrey locked the hospital annex ?"

"That 's why this is bad !"pink wine said.

"wellspring, she did n't lock us out this clock time,"John pointed out.

"She did n't exactly let us in either,"Kaden said.

Albus and his friend had slept late on Sabbatum morn and after grabbing a straightaway raciness to eat, had gone to visit flatness in the hospital wing. dame Pomfrey had n't let them in. They were currently in the piranha 's Den, trying to figure out why.

"She always lets us in,"John groaned.

"He obviously had a really bad Night,"Albus said quietly.

"Yeah, but why ?"Rose wondered.

"Have n't you noticed that the good lunation have been high-risk the past few months ?"Albus asked,"He 's been taking longer to recover."

"I wish he 'd just let us get Animagi,"John muttered.

"John, I honestly do n't remember you could suit an Animagus,"Rose replied,"You 'd nose up with a permanent tail affixed to your arse."

"That would n't be that bad,"lavatory grinned,"Always thought it would be nerveless to have a tail."

"You 're not helping,"Albus sighed,"What are we going to do ?"

"I think all we can do is just keep going back to the hospital flank,"John shrugged,"Until lady Pomfrey lets us in."

Their exploit proved bootless, though. They went to the infirmary annex twice that afternoon and then right before Albus and Saint John the Apostle had to go to hold. Madam Pomfrey told them 'no'each time.

Sunday, the last day of Albus and john 's detention, was the same. Madam Pomfrey was quite livid when they showed up for the third prison term that day.

"Nothing 's changed !"she shouted,"Come back tomorrow evening ! I 'll give the lot of you detention if you come back any earlier than that !"

With that, she strode back into the Barbara Ward and slammed the room access."Can she even give detention ?"Kaden asked.

"I dunno,"Albus shrugged,"I would n't put it past her."

Albus and John broke away from the group to complete their last detention. Balladanis gave them lines, just like he had the past three Night. Albus sat quietly completing them, very grateful for the fact that Malfoy had n't said two Christian Bible to him since Astronomy.

"You may turn back,"Balladanis said quietly after they 'd been writing for about an hour and a half.

Albus threw his shaft down and leaned back in his death chair. Finally, it was over.

"I hope you learned something,"Balladanis said, which shocked Albus. He had been expecting Balladanis to keep his silence."If I catch any of you dueling in the corridors again, the consequences will be much more wicked than custody and lost points.

"Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy, I have given great thought to whether I should persist in giving you surplus moral. I have decided to commit you one Sir Thomas More probability. moral will continue this Friday at their normal time. However, if either of you disregard my rules again, I will no longer hold them. You may go. I 'll see all three of you in stratum on Tuesday."

"Merlin, I 'm glad that 's over,"John muttered to Albus once they were on their way to Gryffindor Tower.

"Me too,"Albus agreed,"He 's going to be frightful in category, though."

"Yeah, ca n't say I 'm looking forward to that,"John said.

Albus could n't center at all in his course the next day. All he wanted to do was go to the infirmary wing and find out out how Matt was, but Madam Pomfrey insisted that they wait until evening.

Rose and Amanda ate dinner with Linda, but they met Albus, can, and Kaden near the hospital wing afterwards. They had all eaten a very rush dinner due to Albus 's Quidditch recitation at seven.

Albus cautiously opened the door to the hospital extension, half expecting Madam Pomfrey to yell at them again. He walked quietly inside, followed the the others. dame Pomfrey was sitting at her desk and she visibly sighed when she noticed them.

"Go ahead,"she gestured to the entirely tenanted bed, which had the curtains pulled around it.

Albus rushed over to the bed and yanked the drapery back. Matt looked use up and there was a rather large bandage wrapped around his head.

"I was wondering when you 'd fall visit me,"Matt gave them a one-half smile.

"We 've been trying !"Gospel According to John said,"Madam Pomfrey has n't let us !"

"I know,"Matt smirked,"I 've heard her yell at you. It 's kind of amusing."

"Well, we 're here now,"Albus said,"How are you ? Why did n't ma'am Pomfrey let us amount visit ?"

"Because I did n't awaken up until yesterday good afternoon,"lustrelessness answered.

"But that was-"John began.

"Nearly two days later ?"Matt cut him off,"I know."

"But why ?"Rose asked.

"A bunch of things, really,"lusterlessness sighed,"First, I was worried about Malfoy telling everyone and it 's always worse when I 'm worried about something. secondly, I hit my headland really hard at some peak that dark. It still hurts. one-third, the transformations in general are getting worse, because I 'm getting older."

That thought certainly had n't crossed Albus 's psyche. Albus and all his supporter were obviously getting elderly and that brought plenty of alteration, but he had n't even thought about how the wolf would change when matt got older.

"So, are all of the full-of-the-moon moons going to be this bad now ?"Kaden asked.

"No,"lusterlessness shook his mind and then winced,"I mean, I do n't really know what 'll happen in the future, but this one was just a combination of bad things."

"That 's good, I guess,"Albus shrugged,"When do you get to leave ?"

"Tomorrow night at the earliest,"lusterlessness sighed,"Although that means I 'll overlook Defense."

"wishing I could miss Defense,"John the Divine muttered,"Speaking of Defense, did you owl your dad yet ?"

"John, he just woke up yesterday,"rose pointed out.

"I did n't owl him,"lusterlessness said,"But he came to see me earlier and I asked him."

"Brilliant,"John grinned,"And ?"

"And,"Matt said,"He told me all about it. He told me Balladanis was a Presuler and was really surprised that I already knew.

"Apparently, back when my dad had just been appointed foreland of the section for the Regulation and dominance of Magical Creatures in Australia, he hired Balladanis to take hold of a band of vampires who were attacking Muggles on the outback. Balladanis caught them, but he thought Dad went too wanton on them."

"What did he do to them ?"privy asked.

"Sent them to prison. I think they got 20 geezerhood. Balladanis thought they should give birth gotten life sentences. Dad and Balladanis got into this huge argument at the Ministry about it and Balladanis stormed out. The Aboriginal Australian Ministry did n't take him after that,"matt explained,"Although, I 'll bet Balladanis and Lubar would agree on punishments. I wonder if he 's hired Balladanis."

"That explains a lot,"Albus said,"Did your dad say anything else about him ?"

"No, not really,"lusterlessness replied,"Just that he 's got a lot of take. Oh, and he wanted me to warn you not to take heed to everything Balladanis says during those dueling lessons you 've got."

"I 'm not going to,"Albus assured him,"I think we 've all seen a unlike side of Balladanis during the past week."

******

Tuesday morning dawned quickly and Albus trudged to demurrer with John Lackland. Neither of them really knew what grade would be like, but judging from what he heard about recent vindication classes in the usual room, it would n't be fun.

Malfoy was back to his smug self now that detention was over. He sat next to Goyle wearing a smirk on his face. Albus ignored him and went to his usual table.

Balladanis stormed into the elbow room a few minutes later. He waved his verge at the door and it slammed shut with a boot trashy enough that it caused the Jordan-Bell Gemini the Twins, who had been sitting unaired to it, to jump.

"Pass your homework motion forward,"he growled.

Albus handed his preparation to the table in front of him and waited for Balladanis to call for it. He paused in front of the table in front of Albus's.

"thrower,"he began,"You can enjoin Eckerton that his preparation is previous and therefore I will not assume it. If he wished to get deferred payment for it, he could have graced us with his presence."

Malfoy snorted at this, earning him glares from both Albus and Balladanis. Balaldanis tossed the homework unceremoniously onto his desk and then turned back to his students.

"Wolfsbane potion,"he barked,"Was created by a man by the name of Oliver Belby. He finished the existence in 1991. For most wolfman, the potion was a lifesaver. Who can explicate what it does ?"

nobody, not even Rose and Linda, raised their workforce. Albus stared down at his desk, hoping that Balladanis would n't bid on him.

"Nobody ?"he said,"Pity. Aconitum lycoctonum potion renders a werewolf harmless during full moons. The wolfman turns into a brute, but a harmless one. One that will just sleep until the synodic month stage set and will not have the urge to sting and kill.

"The potion is a lifesaver to those plagued with lycanthropy. I had been hoping to show you what a werewolf would expect like on wolfsbane potion, but my anamatek has been banned from the palace,"Balladanis said with malice,"Therefore you will give birth to go without the visual. It seems that certain parents, Ministry functionary, and the master do not approve of my method of teaching. Unfortunately, it is all of you who are suffering for it."

"I would n't holler it suffering,"Saint John muttered.

"Quiet, Brickston !"Balladanis shouted,"Unless you have something to contribute to the class."

"No, sir,"John the Evangelist replied.

"Good,"Balladanis muttered,"Anyway, the anamatek will not be making anymore appearances in this classroom and your education is going to suffer for it. Nothing, and I repeat nothing can interchange work force on training."

Albus usually agreed with that, but he drew the line at having what was in marrow a survive manticore in front of him. There were some times when reading sufficed.

The lesson continued with Balladanis talking about wolf's bane. He spoke about how the potion does n't work for all lycanthrope and Albus found his mind drifting. All in all, the object lesson had n't been as bad as he 'd been expecting. Besides his legal brief rant about his anamatek being banned from the castle, he had been pretty pattern. Normal for Balladanis, that is.

"Next lesson will be the last on wolfman,"Balladanis announced at the end of class,"We will learn about lycanthropy 's essence on children."

Albus groaned inwardly. mat would be out of the infirmary wing by then. Why could n't Balladanis just terminate the wolfman unit of measurement already ?

"He wo n't be back next class,"can muttered as they walked to Herbology.

"I do n't doubt that,"Albus replied,"I just wonder who we 're going to get instead."


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"position your bets here !"Fred shouted the next day as he walked around the common room.

Albus had just climbed through the portrait mess with Georgia and James after a particularly difficult Quidditch practice. Wood was getting them prepared for the match against New House of York, which was to take place in a little over a week.

"Georgia, James, Albus !"Fred greeted them,"Care to commit a bet ?"

"What are you taking bets about ?"Sakartvelo asked tiredly,"And if you keep betting on stuff, your mum is bound to incur out."

"She wo n't care,"Fred shrugged. He was probably flop. Albus 's Aunt Alicia was the least exacting out of all of his auntie. She 'd probably set a bet with Fred.

"You 'd just meliorate hope nan does n't detect out,"GA smirked.

Fred looked momentarily horrorstruck and Albus could n't pick him. molly Weasley would probably air him a howler if she knew he was gambling.

"She wo n't unless you tell her,"Fred muttered,"And Heather and I are taking bets on how lots farsighted Balladanis is going to last. precaution to take in a guess ?"

"I suppose,"Georgia said as she pulled out some atomic number 79,"Two Galleons says he 's gone in a week. I heard he had three first gear geezerhood in tears today."

"He nearly had half of my social class in tears,"Fred said as he took Peach State 's Au,"King James I, Al ?"

"trio Galleons says he 's gone in two calendar week,"James said as he tossed Fred some gold and then left to go see his friends.

"Nope,"Albus shook his forefront.

"case yourself,"Fred shrugged and continued his paseo around the coarse room,"Bets here, place your bets !"

Albus found his protagonist crowded around their common board in the green room. Linda was with them. All three girls were working on homework. bathroom and Kaden were trading coffee batrachian cards.

"Fred 's going to get himself in hassle,"blush wine muttered as Albus sat down,"You did n't bet anything, did you ?"

"No,"Albus shook his head,"How about you lot ?"

"I bet ten sickle he wo n't utmost the year,"whoremonger said.

"You should know exactly when he 'll leave, what with your taking divination,"rosiness smirked.

"foretelling 's a caper,"John muttered,"I ca n't hold off to cast off it after fifth year."

"Told you so,"rose wine grinned,"Sick of making up stuff and nonsense ?"

"It 's just so otiose,"John groaned,"We 're still doing crystal testicle. I just tell her that I see myself dying anytime she asks and it keeps her happy."

"That 's why I 'm not taking Divination,"Kaden announced,"Bloody dissipation of a class."

Kaden had chosen his classes for next class a few Day prior. He decided on fear of Magical Creatures, Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy.

"Easy homework, though,"John sighed,"I just keep reminding myself about that."

"What 's got easy homework ?"matt asked as he sat down in the chairperson next to trick 's. He looked a bit better than he had the previous day, but still break out.

"Pomfrey finally let you out ?"John asked,"And we 're talking about Divination."

"Yeah, just in time for defense lawyers tomorrow,"Matt groaned,"I 'm tempted to use a Fainting Fancy to get out of it."

"I think half the first geezerhood are going to do that on Friday,"Kaden said,"I overheard them talking. Apparently Balladanis completely flipped out on one of them today, all over one incomplete prep interrogative. Made her cry."

"That 's what Georgia was saying,"Albus replied,"Makes me want to use a Fainting fantasy. Two weeks. I know I did n't bet on it, but that 's really all I 'd give him."

******

John filled his sack with regurgitation Pastilles before he set off to Defense the adjacent morning time. Albus did n't nettle. His curiosity always trumped his disfavour for certain course of study. He 'd rather be there and know exactly what Balladanis was doing.

"loup-garou,"Balladanis said as soon as the Alexander Graham Bell rang,"When the term is used, about people conjure up images of lonely grownup, condemned to a misfortunate life-time that revolves around the moon.

"However, there is a totally grouping of werewolves that are mostly overlooked. baby. Ah, yes, fry do get attacked by lycanthrope. Very few survive. Found by their parents when it is too late. Even few survive the initial transformation. lycanthrope translation, as you have learned, are incredibly taxing, both physically and emotionally. Very few tyke are potent enough to make it through."

Balladanis paused and began to pace the way."Parents are faced with a decisiveness after their child is bitten. They have three alternative. Number one, they can divvy up with it. dole out with the monthly transformation and try and wee aliveness as convention as possible for the child. turn two, they can abandon their small fry. military unit them to live with a wild battalion of werewolves, to get up to kill. However, there is a tertiary option. Does anyone maintenance to guess as to what it is ?"

cipher raised their handwriting. Balladanis looked at his grade until his eyes rested on lustrelessness. A very creepy-crawly smirk appeared on his face.

"Mr. Eckerton, care to say us ?"Balladanis asked.

Albus, who had been trying hard not to look at matte throughout the example, stole a nimble glance at him. He was staring at the desk, quill in hand, shaking slightly.

"N-no,"lusterlessness stuttered.

"Very well,"Balladanis smirked,"The third alternative is to put the tyke down. Not a pleasant option, but one that a few parents select anyway. This option used to be readily suggested by Healers, but has now become quite controversial. It is not suggested very often anymore.

"Parents who choose the first option, to continue to get up their child, are in for a very tough biography. Werewolf youngster are difficult to raise. It is a Brobdingnagian registration for parents and siblings if there are any. The sting affects the totally syndicate. It changes lives, it can rip sept apart."

Balladanis continued droning on and on about how lycanthropy affects children and Albus looked again at Matt. His hired hand was shaking even harder and his face was as Patrick White as it had been when he had dressed up as a ghost.

Albus shared a flavor with John and John reached into his scoop. He slid a regurgitation Pastille across the board towards Albus and then slid one to flatness. Albus quietly unwrapped it and then waited until Balladanis had looked away to stuff it into his back talk. Saint John the Apostle and Matt did the same. Albus clutched his stomach as the sweet began to direct affect.

"Lycanthropic children rarely, if ever, get to hang school,"Balladanis droned.

"Sir !"Saint John the Apostle shouted,"I do n't finger so well. May I go to the Hospital Wing ?"

"I do n't feel too well either,"Albus added.

"Shut it, you two,"Balladanis shouted,"And no you may not go to the-"

Balladanis was cut off by the sound of all three son vomiting at the same clock time. Albus leaned over his table and vomited right onto the floor. The form erupted into shout and Balladanis tried to keep order.

"mulct !"he seethed,"Get to the infirmary extension, all three of you !"

Albus resisted the urge to throw up again as he ran for the door. matt and Saint John followed. All three of them shoved the orange end of the sweets into their mouths as soon as they shut the door behind them. The affect was instantaneous. Albus immediately felt better.

"The man 's malefic !"John shouted,"How could he instruct that ?"

"Not here,"Matt muttered and took off down the corridor.

None of them said anything else until they reached the Marauder 's Den."As I was saying,"can began,"What is wrong with that bloke ?"

"I think a lot of matter,"Albus muttered,"He 's a raving lunatic."

"He 's only doing it because you 're in the year,"John said to lusterlessness as he paced around the elbow room,"None of what he said today is actually in the book. I mean, did you translate the book ? There 's not a lot in there that Balladanis has actually taught !"

"He hates me because my dad made him get rid of his stupid anamatek,"Matt muttered.

"But it started before that,"Albus pointed out,"He wants to make you pitiable because of what your dad did with those lamia class ago."

"It 's just not middling,"lustrelessness groaned,"I mean, did you listen to what he was talking about ?"

"It was hard not to,"Albus sighed,"Is it true ?"

"Yes,"Matt said quietly,"And before you ask, one of the Healers did hint that to my parents."

Albus suddenly felt more barf than he had when he ate the disgorgement Pastille. How could a healer, somebody whose job it was to make people good for you, actually suggest that to a child 's parents ?

"Seriously ?"John the Evangelist asked,"What happened after they asked ?"

"My dad and my Uncle jak hexed him at the Saame time,"mat gave them a half-smile,"Put him in his own hospital bed for two days."

"You know, I 'd really like to meet your Uncle Jack,"John grinned,"He sounds like a with child bloke."

"He is,"mat smiled,"He would 've hexed Balladanis quite a while ago if he were here."

"But he 's not,"can sighed,"So what are we going to do about this ?"

"I 'm sending an owl to my dad,"Matt said as he stood up,"You two are n't going to have to do anything."

"Three twenty-four hours,"Saint John said after Matt left,"I give Balladanis three Thomas More days."

******

"Your dad certainly does n't squander any time,"pink wine said to Matt as she unfolded her copy of the Prophet the next morning at breakfast.

Albus leaned over and read the paper over rosiness 's shoulder.

HOGWARTS PROFESSOR TO BE INVESTIGATED BY MINISTRY
The Department of Magical pedagogy received an inquiry
late yesterday good afternoon, requesting an investigation
of Hogwarts Defense Against the Dark graphics prof,
Tethys Balladanis. The inquiry was submitted by none
other than the newly appointed Head of the Department
for the Regulation and dominance of Magical Creatures,
Walter Eckerton, whose fourteen-year-old son currently
attends Hogwarts.

prof genus Aplysia Balladanis has been teaching United States Department of Defense at
the school since September, when he replaced brain Auror
Harry ceramicist. Potter had taught the content for two
years and wished to centre solely on his Auror life history,
resulting in his resignation at the end of survive schoolhouse
year.

The impending investigating comes as hardly a surprise.
Earlier this week Walter Eckerton visited Hogwarts
after receiving a tip that Balladanis was holding an
anamatek in his classroom. This proved to be true and
Eckerton ordered him to take it. The anamatek was
legally in Balladanis 's willpower, so all he had to
do was remove it from school assumption. Eckerton told
reporters that Balladanis complied.

However, Eckerton has claimed that the professor
repeatedly put students in peril and humiliated them
in battlefront of their classmates.

'It 's not just the anamatek ,'Eckerton told newsperson,
'I 'm filing this enquiry as a parent, not as a Ministry
official. First and foremost, I wish to protect my son .'

The investigating will begin today and be carried out
by officials from the department of Magical Education,
a department that was set up for this purpose after
the downfall of Creator Voldemort. official will chaffer
the school and audience both student and staff as
a division of their investigation.

Tethys Balladanis will go forward to teach United States Department of Defense Against
the Dark Arts during this time.

"He 's still going to teach ?"John said incredulously after he finished reading the article.

"I 'm not going to Defense anymore,"Matt said,"Not until he 's gone."

"They ca n't stop him from teaching until they do the probe,"blush wine explained,"Only Kendrick can stop him from teaching at the moment."

"Then why does n't Kendrick do that ?"Albus asked as he looked up at the staff table.

Kendrick was talking with Neville and there was a copy of the prophet laying between them. Balladanis was not present.

"I do n't know,"Rose said quietly,"But United States Department of Defense is just going to get worse."

"Which is why I 'm not going,"lusterlessness said adamantly.

For once, rosebush did not correct him about skipping class. Albus could n't blame him. He himself was half tempted to jump, but he knew his curiosity would get the intimately of him.

"Somehow, I do n't think you 'll have the chance to cut,"Rose muttered,"We do n't have Defense until Tuesday."

"Excellent,"John grinned,"Now I wo n't have to do that werewolf essay."

"I never said that,"Rose replied,"You still ought to do it, just in case."

"look, Kendrick 's getting up,"Kaden pointed to the staff table.

"May I have your attention !"Kendrick shouted and the chatter in the hall immediately ceased,"Thank you. I trust by now that you 've all either read or heard about the article on the front Page of the Prophet.

"Ministry officials will be visiting the schooling today and tomorrow to impart their investigation. They will be selecting educatee to audience. If you are selected, I advise you to answer their questions truthfully.

"As of right now, professor Balladanis is still your teacher, therefore you need to treat him with regard and attend his classes. This is, at the moment, an investigating and aught more. Now, you 'd best be off to class."

"Albus,"rose wine whispered as they made their way out of the Great Hall to story of magic,"You 're not going to that dueling lesson tonight, are you ?"

"I dunno,"Albus shrugged. He had n't really thought about it until then.

"I do n't call back you should,"Rose told him.

Albus nodded. He did n't want to go, but he also did n't want to find out what Balladanis would do when Albus did n't show up that evening.

nonentity fell asleep during history of thaumaturgy. It must suffer been a new record, one that was previously set back when Binns was still active. However, the lack of fatigue was not due to Binns 's lecturing. No, that was just as wearisome as usual. The students remained awake because they were talking about Balladanis. The schoolroom was filled with the hushed susurration of the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw tertiary year and Binns droned on without seeming to notice.

There were only six bookman in the castle who knew the specific reason why lustrelessness 's dad had submitted that inquiry. Albus, blush wine, St. John the Apostle, Amanda, Kaden, and lustrelessness himself. Seven, if you counted Malfoy, but even Malfoy did not know that it had been Balladanis 's speech on lycanthropic kid that pushed Mr. Eckerton to submit the inquiry.

Everyone else speculated. About half the school put the blame on the anamatek, even though Matt 's dad had come out and said that was n't the real reason. The Prophet had only glazed over the grounds, not getting into specifics. The Hogwarts students wanted specific. They wanted to know what had pushed Matt 's dad to present an inquiry when none of their parents seemed fazed.

The reasons the student fabricated ranged from plausible to outrageous. A few seventh years, mainly Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws, speculated that Balladanis had gotten a bit overenthusiastic with his extra assistant sessions and perhaps exploited mat as an example of someone who did not possess the science to defeat dingy thaumaturgist. Combine that with an overprotective parent ( what the seventh days claimed Matt 's dad to be, which was not actually an overstatement ), and the investigation was born. They believed that the probe would spoil over and within two weeks everything would be back to pattern, with Balladanis still teaching.

A few overexcited first years were the on the opposite side of the spectrum. They believed that Balladanis had let a Chimera loose in his schoolroom while teaching the Gryffindor and Slytherin third gear days. Apparently they overlooked the fact that cipher had turned up spite after class and the fact that Balladanis would have been sacked immediately if that had actually been the case.

Matt had become somewhat of a fame inside the Hogwarts wall. There was n't a unmarried mortal, keep, ghost, or portrayal, who did n't have it away it was his dad who launched the query. He was stopped no less than six times on the way from account of Magic to Herbology by people wanting to know the details of the inquiry. It was something Albus could tell Matt was extremely uncomfortable with.

"merlin, when will they teach that I do n't require to talk about it !"Matt groaned as they made their way back to the rook after Herbology. Two Ravenclaw second years had just run up to flatness, demanding to know why his dad wanted to get Balladanis sacked. Apparently they actually liked him.

"You should just stand up on the Gryffindor table and make an announcement during tiffin,"John Lackland suggested.

"Definitely not,"matt said,"I 'm just glad we do n't take in class this afternoon."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed,"Hey, look, I bet those are the investigators."Albus pointed to three official looking people striding up towards the palace. There were two witches and a wizard.

"Probably,"John Lackland said,"I wonder who they 're going to audience ?"

"Ten Galleons says they audience me,"matt replied,"And probably Albus since he 's had all those buck private lessons."

"Let 's just hope they do n't interview those two Ravenclaws,"Saint John the Apostle said.

Albus, matt, and John continued their trek to the Great residence hall, where they ate a very fast lunch. None of them wanted to stay very long since everyone was still asking Matt about the query. After they finished, the boys went to Gryffindor column to deposit their bags before going to the predator 's Den to put off their homework.

The common room was mostly empty when they arrived, but Albus spotted Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn sitting around one of the tabular array.

"Do n't you three have family now ?"Albus asked, feeling very much like Rose.

"Yes,"Lily muttered,"We 've got defense team and we 're skipping. Do n't say anything about it. There 's nothing you can do to make me go, so do n't even try."

"I was n't going to,"Albus assured her,"Was n't it your class where Balladanis made individual cry ?"

"That 's why we 're not going,"Ashtyn replied,"And we do n't handle if we get detention either. Oh, and John, you 'd better not tell Mum."

"I wo n't,"St. John the Apostle said,"The three of us used Puking pastil to get out of Defense yesterday."

"You should get just skipped from the beginning,"Ashtyn told them.

"fountainhead, you three savour your skipping,"Albus said as he continued to his dormitory.

"Oh, believe me, we will,"Lily grinned.

The son quickly stowed their bags in their residence hall and set off for the Maruader 's Den. Albus climbed out of the portrayal hole and ran straight into Gabriella.

"There you are, Al !"Gabriella exclaimed,"I 've been looking for you. Kendrick wants to see you in his subject field. Oh, hang on."Gabriella consulted the art object of lambskin she was holding."He wants to see mat, too."

"flavour like you two are getting interviewed,"John said as Gabriella went into the common room.

"dead reckoning so,"Albus shrugged. He really was n't surprised. Even if he had n't been receiving private moral with Balladanis, he probably would have been interviewed. It was one of those things that happened when your father was the most famous wizard in Britain.

"I 'll see you two later, then,"toilet replied,"Have fun."

"Oh, yeah,"Albus rolled his optic,"Loads."

Albus and Matt left for Kendrick 's discipline while John continued towards the Marauder 's Den. Albus had no idea what he was going to do while they were gone, but he would bet that John would be bored within xv minutes.


A/N : I hope you all enjoyed HPFF 's April tomfool 's Day frivolity ! The staff really outdid themselves this year. Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, and everyone who has read and reviewed this story !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was another Prefect standing next to the gargoyle that concealed the entrance to Kendrick 's study. It was apparently his job to mutter the password to the gargoyle to appropriate all the student being interviewed in. He looked incredibly bored.

Albus and Matt ascended into the bailiwick and found three other bookman waiting in front of Kendrick 's closed room access. A very bored looking Hufflepuff, who was probably in sixth or seventh year, Scorpius Malfoy, and much to Albus 's alarm, one of those Ravenclaws they had encountered on the grounds earlier.

Albus was not at all storm to see Scorpius Malfoy there. After all, he had private lessons with Balladanis as well. However, he chose to disregard Malfoy 's front and leaned against the paries to get the long wait.

What had been the pointedness in sending them all to Kendrick 's study at the like sentence ? They were obviously only interviewing one person at a time. Why could n't they have just summoned Albus later, when there were less the great unwashed waiting ?

Kendrick 's room access opened and a pale-faced Gryffindor first year walked out. She hurried out of the field of study and one of the Ministry officials motioned for the Ravenclaw to enter.

The Ravenclaw was in Kendrick 's report for about fifteen minutes. Then it was Malfoy 's turn. He took a bit more meter, but finally came out and left without so much as a glance towards Albus and Matt.

In the mingy time, two more students had entered. One Albus recognized as Peyton Haines, one of the Chasers from the Slytherin Quidditch squad. The former was a young Hufflepuff Albus did n't recognize.

Finally, after what must make been at least an 60 minutes, Albus was finally called into the way.

Kendrick was not in his sketch. Only the three research worker were. Albus was now able to see them up close. The one who had called him into the room was quite tall and wore a menacing blaze. Her robe were perfectly pressed, without a single crinkle, and her fuzz was pulled into a tight bun. She reminded Albus of Minerva McGonagall.

The former witch was the over opposite. She was short circuit and quite a bit overweight. Her kinky brown fuzz stuck up at all sorts of odd Angle and she had a pocket-size pair of glasses perched on her nose.

The remaining research worker was a wizard and he was seated behind Kendrick 's desk, a quill in script. He looked a bit bored by the entire thing. He was gazing about the room and had the tone of someone who was n't quite paying attention.

Two people who were paying ecstatic attending, or should he say portraiture, were Dumbledore and Snape. Both were sitting straight up and looking straight at the investigators.

The tall witch gestured for Albus to take a seat in front of the desk. Albus did so.

"My name is Katherine Torenzo and this is Lorraine Smyth,"the tall beldam gestured to the short witch,"And that is Herb Cletus. He 'll be transcribing our interview."

No marvel he was so bored, Albus thought. He did n't even get to ask any of the questions.

"Please state your full figure, age, yr, and house for the book,"Torenzo said briskly.

Albus raised his eyebrows. Would n't they already know all of that selective information ?

"It 's protocol, dear,"Smyth told him.

"Albus Severus ceramist, thirteen, 3rd twelvemonth, Gryffindor,"Albus answered.

"Excellent,"Torenzo replied,"Now, perhaps you can severalize us what goes on in an average lesson with Professor Balladanis, in your own words."

"Er, all right,"Albus said,"well, he comes in and tells us all to block up talking. Then he 'll accumulate the homework. Oh, and you have to get the homework in on time, no matter what. He does n't demand late work, even if you 've got a serious excuse. You could be sick in the infirmary wing and he would n't take late homework.

"Then he 'll instruct us a new spell or about some new animal. Then we 'll induce to execute the spell."

"What happens if you do n't do it properly ?"Smyth asked.

"He makes you do it again, and again, until you get it,"Albus answered,"If you do n't get it, he makes you go to extra help sessions."

"Has this caused distress to any of the pupil in your course of study ?"Smyth asked.

"Not in my category, but I 've heard of other students crying because of it,"Albus answered.

"wealthy person you attended any extra assistant sessions ?"Torenzo asked.

"No,"Albus shook his head,"Professor Balladanis has never told me I had to."

"I understand you have been given dueling deterrent example by him, however,"Torenzo said,"Can you tell us a bit about them ? What do they consist of ?"

"virtually times he just instruct me new charm, spells that are harder than the ones we learn in socio-economic class. Scorpio Malfoy is there, too, and we duel each former with the enchantment,"Albus explained.

"You said 'most'clock time,"Smyth said,"What else does he have you do ?"

"Er,"Albus shifted uncomfortably in his chair,"One time he had us go into his pensieve."

"Did he,"Torenzo muttered,"Please elaborate."

"We watched his parents be murdered by lamia,"Albus said after a brief hesitation. He doubted Balladanis would be happy about this, but Kendrick had said to be truthful.

Both Torenzo and Smyth looked horrified. Cletus was writing away furiously on the parchment. Snape was smirking and Dumbledore 's face had seemed to harden.

"We did n't actually see it,"Albus said quickly,"We stood outside the house as it happened. Balladanis 's parents were in the theater. Then we watched Balladanis, in the retentiveness, run away from the house. He was thirteen."

"And then what ?"Torenzo prodded.

"We left the pensieve. Balladanis explained what we had seen-"

"He did n't tell you ahead of time ?"Smyth asked.

"No,"Albus shook his head,"He just told us to go in the pensieve."

"Did he explain why he wanted you to see this ?"Torenzo asked.

"Yeah. He wanted to demonstrate us why he became a Presuler,"Albus said.

"He told you he 's a Presuler ?"Torenzo raised her eyebrow.

"Yes, he thinks me and Malfoy should go Presulers,"Albus explained.

"Very well,"Torenzo said as she walked towards Albus,"I have one final query. Would you palpate comfortable if Professor Balladanis continued to teach here ?"

Albus thought about it for a moment. Balladanis was certainly a motivated teacher and one Albus could ascertain a lot from. But on the other hand, he was n't the kind of sorcerer Albus felt easy around.

"No,"Albus said quietly,"I guess not."

Torenzo nodded."Please return to your rough-cut room. You are not to mouth of this interview to anyone until after the investigation is completed."

Albus got up from the president and Torenzo followed him out of the elbow room. She called lustrelessness in as Albus left. Albus muttered a unruffled 'good luck'to him before descending from the room.

******

"Why ca n't you just enjoin us ?"John lamented as the boys sat around the Marauder 's Den after dinner party. Rose and Amanda were currently in the girl'dorm room with Linda, who had recently been interviewed.

"I 've told you a million meter,"Albus said,"The Ministry enchantress said we could n't talk about the interview."

"But how would they know ?"lavatory asked,"It 's not like I 'm going to go telling the entirely school about it."

"Neither will I,"Kaden added.

Albus snorted."I 'll order you about it after Balladanis is sacked, or is n't sacked. I do n't suppose it 's going to take recollective for them to decide."

"He 's going to be sacked,"Matt said adamantly and then turned to John,"You 're not going to his superfluous help school term tonight, are you ?"

"Not if I was paid XX Galleons,"John replied,"Well, ok, maybe if I was paid twenty Galleons, but not for to a lesser extent than ten. What about you, Albus ? Going to go to your dueling moral ?"

Albus shrugged. He still had n't decided. What he really wanted to know was whether Malfoy was going, but he could n't very well waltz down to the dungeon, barge into the Slytherin common room, and ask.

"No idea,"Albus sighed.

"Do n't go,"lusterlessness said,"If you go, I 'm going to start worrying about your sanity."

"Why would you desire to go ?"bathroom gave Albus a strange look.

"I might receive out something about how the investigation is going, or something,"Albus muttered.

John opened his mouth to answer, but instead turned to the room access. A loud squawking noise had seemed to emit from it.

"Did you hear that ?"John asked.

Albus nodded and got up from his tail. He walked over to the door and paused future to it. The squawking noise was repeated.

One matter Albus loved about the predator 's Den was that it was always very still. No haphazardness could be heard from the corridor while he was inside. Albus rarely ever heard dissonance from the corridor, let alone squawking noises.

Albus cautiously opened the threshold and instead of the bizarre birdie he had expected to see, pink wine was standing there with her wand out.

"Finally !"she groaned,"I thought you 'd never issue forth to the door."

"blush wine ?"Albus asked,"What is it ? Was that squawking you ?"

"Yes,"rose said hurriedly,"I had to get you to come out of there. Uncle Harry 's looking for you. He 's waiting in the common room. I told him I 'd regain you."

Albus turned around and told lusterlessness, whoremonger, and Kaden, all of whom had followed him out of the room, that he would be back soon. He had no musical theme what his dad wanted, but it must stimulate been important for him to go to the castle on a day he did n't have to police it.

Harry was sitting in one of the squashy armchairs in front of the ardour when Albus arrived. Georgia and Fred were both talking with him, nearly likely about Quidditch judging by their exuberant use of hand gestures, but stopped abruptly when Albus entered. Harry got up and met Albus near the portrait hole.

"Let 's talk outside,"Harry said. Albus followed him out of the portrait hole and down the corridor a little ways.

"What were you up to just now ?"Harry asked, grinning a bit.

"nil,"Albus shrugged truthfully.

"Well, I 'm no longer a teacher here, so I wo n't say a word about you causing trouble, if that 's what you were doing,"Harry told him,"But anyway, what I wanted to ask you is whether you were planning on going to Professor Balladanis 's dueling lesson tonight ?"

That seemed to be the question of the evening, Albus thought."I dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"I realize that the decision is completely up to you,"Harry said quietly,"But I would give notice you not to go. Professor Balladanis is under a considerable amount of stress, of which you do n't know the half of. I 'd say the hazard are high that he may withdraw out this stress on you and Scorpius."

"Do you love if Malfoy 's going ?"Albus asked.

"I really have no musical theme,"Harry answered,"But I tend to believe he won't."

"I do n't think I will either,"Albus said.

"A wise determination,"Harry smiled.

Harry said good nighttime to Albus and then Albus went back to the marauder 's Den. Kaden was in the middle of showing Matt and john how to make a proper paper airplane.

"What did your dad require ?"can asked without looking up from the lambskin he was folding.

"To tell me it was n't a skilful estimation to go to Balladanis 's deterrent example tonight,"Albus said as he flopped down onto the vacate couch.

"And ?"matt asked.

"I 'm not going,"Albus answered.

"good,"flatness replied.

"You know what was eldritch, though ?"Albus began,"My dad said Balladanis was under a lot of stress, most of which I do n't recognize about. So I 'm guessing it 's not only the investigation."

"Wyrd,"Kaden shook his head,"I 'll be happy when he 's sacked."

"We do n't recognise for sure that he 'll be sacked,"Albus pointed out,"I just wish I knew what else he was stressed about."

"Maybe he 's got to conflict a beautiful charwoman,"John smirked,"Remember his boggart ?"

"His boggart !"Albus shouted,"I ca n't trust I did n't put that together sooner. It was n't a beautiful cleaning lady ; it was a vampire. It 's so obvious now that we know what happened to his parents, too."

"Yeah, that does seem fairly obvious,"Matt agreed,"But what 's that got to do with his stress ?"

"Probably cypher,"Albus shrugged,"I just realized it."

"You know,"John began,"This is the first Friday we 've had to ourselves."

"You 're right,"Albus said,"What should we do ?"

"Let 's go down to the kitchens,"Kaden said.

"And spend the Nox here,"lustrelessness added,"We hardly ever do that."

They did just that. The male child snuck down to the kitchens and were given as many sweets and puddings as they could carry by the firm elves. Then they stayed up late eating all of it and playing diverse biz. Albus was even able to forget about Balladanis for a piece, something that had not happened in quite a while.

******

The Ministry officials remained a permanent fixture at Hogwarts throughout the remnant of the weekend. Albus overheard a lot of bookman mentioning that they 'd been interviewed, including John 's first cousin Isabelle, one of the chaser on the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, and Gabriella.

professor Balladanis did not show up at a I meal. In fact, he was n't seen at all throughout the weekend. nobody saw him, which raised the head of whether he was even still in the palace.

Albus was hoping he ran for it. Got out before the Ministry had a chance to spend a penny their decision. Albus was more than a petty neural about going to Defense on Tues and hearing what Balladanis had to say about Albus 's absence from their dueling lesson.

It was on Monday morning that all the Hogwarts students knew a verdict had been reached. prof Kendrick rose partway through the repast, something that only happened when something important happened. He was flanked by the two crone from the Ministry. The wizard was no thirster there.

The Hall immediately quieted, without Kendrick even having to ask. Albus was slightly taken aback by Kendrick 's impending announcement, since there had not been a single mention of Balladanis in that morning 's Prophet.

"A decision has been reached about prof Balladanis,"Kendrick announced,"gentlewoman Torenzo will inform you of it. The vaticinator has kindly agreed not to publish the article about it just yet, as I wished to inform you of it first."

"He 's sacked,"John muttered,"Otherwise he 'd be at breakfast."

"goodness point in time,"Albus said.

Torenzo stood up and gazed out at the students with a indifferent look on her face."Upon extensive probe of Professor Balladanis 's teaching methods and thoroughgoing interviews of selected scholarly person, the Ministry has seen it fit to remove him from his teaching position here at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and wizardry. Professor Balladanis packed his things late last night and no thirster resides in the castle. Professor Kendrick will inform you about what will happen with Defense classes for the oddment of the twelvemonth. I would like to thank all of you for your cooperation during this time."

Torenzo sat back down and go forward eating her breakfast like zip had happened. The Great vestibule immediately erupted into whisper, but they were quickly stopped by Kendrick.

"Defense Against the Dark Arts classes will not take blank space until boost notification. I will try and procure a worthy alternate for professor Balladanis as quickly as possible. Until then, please use the time to study for your upcoming examination,"Kendrick said and then resumed his rear end. He began to blab with Torenzo and the student voices rose in the Hall.

"I knew it !"lustrelessness exclaimed,"Charles Herbert Best news program I 've heard this calendar month !"

"Yes !"Georgia shouted and then turned to Fred,"Pay up !"

"pigeon hawk !"St. James groaned,"Why 'd they stimulate to do that investigation so quickly ?"

Money began to commute hands throughout the Gryffindor tabular array as Fred collected and handed out Galleons.

"Do you imagine Kendrick 'll find a replacement ?"St. John asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged,"No one really wanted that job to lead off with."

"gladiola I did n't do that wolfman essay,"John grinned.

"Maybe Kendrick wo n't feel a replenishment,"Kaden said,"Then we 'd have one less exam."

"That would be brilliant,"John replied.

The atmosphere in the castle for the residue of the day was incredibly upbeat. Hardly anyone seemed at all sad that Balladanis had left. Quite a few scholarly person asked flatness to thank his dad for them. It seemed that the only students upset by it were those who had lost stakes because of it.

Argus Filch was another who was infelicitous. The general excitement of the rook caused him more work. Peeves destroyed the Defense schoolroom in celebration ( Balladanis never liked Peeves ), James and his protagonist set off a few Weasley fireworks, and then there was the full general muckle that was associated with student celebrating by playing outside in the murky grass. Plus, Moaning myrtle flooded her can when a few students told her that even she ought to be excited about it. Apparently she did not gibe. For some odd reason it reminded her of her death.

One person who seemed incredibly excited was Linda. Linda who rarely showed any emotion whatsoever walked around the castle with a big grin on her face. Albus could only assign this to the fact that Balladanis had taught so extensively about vampire. But he never taunted her the way he 'd taunted Matt. Perhaps that was because his openhanded fearfulness was vampires.

There was even a political party in the Gryffindor common way that night. blush wine thought it was a little ridiculous, to celebrate the release of a teacher, but everyone else, including Linda, thought it was an excellent thing to celebrate.

"Just believe,"lav said,"We do n't ever receive to listen to him go on and on about how bad the dark artistry are. I mean, we all know they 're bad. We all know about Voldemort and what he did."

"And that bloody anamatek,"matt added,"I could 've gone my wholly sprightliness without seeing one of those."

"What do you think he 's doing now ?"rose mused.

"Maybe some Ministry hired him,"Albus said quietly,"I hope it 's some place far, like Madagascar or somewhere."

"Yeah,"Matt agreed,"I bet he 's not even in UK anymore."

"I do n't see why he 'd irritate to stick around,"Albus replied,"I mean, he snuck out in the night to avoid anyone seeing him."

"Wish we could 've seen him leave,"john grinned mischievously,"Would 've been overnice to give him a proper send off."

"I 'm just glad it 's over,"blush wine muttered,"Maybe now you lot can condense on exam. And maybe the castling will get back to normal."

"Normal ?"Albus raised his eyebrow,"This place will never be normal. Plus, we 've got Quidditch on Sat. It 's the last compeer before the final."

"When 's the final exam ?"rose asked.

"offset of June, I think,"Albus answered,"Australia 's already so far ahead that they 'll be in it."

Albus, trick, Matt, and Kaden all sent scathing looking at at Linda, who looked down at the table.

"But if we beat New House of York in this match,"Albus continued,"We 'll be in it, too. So Mrs. Henry Wood is in full build this week. I 'm practicing every nighttime starting tomorrow."

"Oliver woods is harebrained,"rosebush muttered.

"Insane, but brilliant on the Quidditch pitch,"John grinned,"I would sleep together to get yelled at by him during a Quidditch practice."

"Excellent,"Albus said,"You can rent my place."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Despite the fact that he did not have defence reaction Against the Dark artistic creation the next morning, Albus was down in the Great Granville Stanley Hall bright and early because he wanted to read Rose 's Daily Prophet. Having Kendrick announce Balladanis 's dismission was one thing, reading it in the vaticinator was entirely different.

rosiness was already there when Albus, Matt, and whoremaster sat down at the Gryffindor tabular array. Amanda and Linda were on either side of her and all three girls were reading the article. Albus drummed his fingers impatiently on the table while he waited for them to be finished. Finally, rose handed him the paper without saying a word and Albus read it, with lustrelessness and John looking over his shoulder.

HOGWARATS instructor REMOVED FROM POSITION BY MINISTRY

In an event that causes much of the wizarding world to remember
back to Voldemort 's reign, Hogwarts Defense Department Against the darkness
Arts teacher, Tethys Balladanis, has been removed from his
military position by the Ministry of magic trick 's department of Magical
Education.

During Voldemort 's reign, defense reaction teacher rarely lasted more
than a year at the schooling, a mystery story that abruptly ended when
Voldemort was defeated on May 2, 1998. Up until two years
ago, Hogwarts had had only one Defense teacher since that
fateful May day.

Professor Torro taught at Hogwarts for years until he was
mysteriously murdered nearly three age ago. He was
replaced by headland Auror, Harry Potter, who is rumored to
have only taken the position after cypher else agreed to
fill it.

Harry ceramist left the billet this by autumn and it was filled
by Balladanis.

Balladanis taught until two Clarence Shepard Day Jr. ago, when he was removed
from his position. Approximately a calendar week and a one-half ago, a
complaint was lodged by top dog of the department for the
regularisation and ascendence of Magical Creatures, Walter Eckerton,
whose fourteen-year-old son currently attends Hogwarts.

The ailment included harsh teaching method, the use of an
anamatek as a teaching prick, singling students out for lack of
skill, and embarrassing scholarly person in front of their match.

An investigation by Ministry officials ensued and included
the interviewing of pick out bookman and staff. The department
concluded their investigating late William Ashley Sunday evening and informed
both Balladanis and master Fabius Kendrick of their decisiveness.
Balladanis left the castle willingly and will not be appealing the
conclusion. When asked for a program line on the issue, both Kendrick
and Balladanis declined.

Upon hearing the news, Bruno Walter Eckerton said ,'I am very happy
with the determination and that the probe was concluded in
a seasonable manner. I am not well-chosen that it came to this, but I
feel that nix should be put ahead of shaver 's safety .'

Hogwarts students will not attend Defense classes until a replacement
is found. As of rightfulness now, one has not been found.

"I knew they 'd sting your dad in there somehow,"King John announced once they 'd finished reading.

"There was n't anything in there that we did n't already know,"Albus muttered,"I was hoping Balladanis would 've said something or we 'd find out what happened when he left the castle."

"Maybe he really did go quietly,"Matt shrugged,"Maybe he wanted to get back to his anamatek."

"I wonder where he lives,"Amanda mused,"Think he lives in England ?"

"dubiety it,"Rose answered,"Even if he did before I doubt he does now."

******

Life soon returned to formula for the Hogwarts students, as it often does after something exciting happens. Everyone talked about Balladanis the day the article was published, but soon there was naught left to say and the students focused on the upcoming Quidditch match, which was mere 24-hour interval away.

Albus had an easy time forgetting about Balladanis due to Quidditch practice session. He was out on the pitch every evening and was soon hearing Natalie Wood 's commands in his head as he fell asleep, which was something that certainly could n't be deemed formula. Albus was almost gladiola that the year was drawing to an end because once the tournament was over, he would n't ingest to mete out with Wood anymore. Thinking about that made Albus realize that Gryffindor would have a new police chief the next yr since Sakartvelo was graduating. Albus was sure it would be either Fred or Calluna vulgaris, but he was n't sure which.

Albus trudged into the Great hall on Thursday morning sorely wishing that bathroom had n't woken him up. They did n't have a social class starting time thing, so why 'd he gravel doing that ? Albus was already running on little sleep.

"I 'm going to wake you up at five in the morning this Sat,"Albus muttered to john as he poured himself some pumpkin juice.

"No you wo n't, you 'll still be asleep,"John grinned,"I need you to help me fetch up that Herbology essay that 's due today."

"That 's the ground for you waking me up ?"Albus groaned,"Why ca n't Rose help you ?"

"She 's a bit sore with me right now,"john muttered.

"What did you do ?"Albus asked.

"I may or may not accept accidentally set ardour to her Potions notes last dark,"lav said.

"And I should feature to suffer because of that ?"Albus replied,"How did you pull off that anyway ?"

"It was n't an stroke,"lustrelessness put in,"John and Kaden were tinkering with those super strength dung dud last night in the marauder 's Den. They stupidly decided to do this at the board right where blush wine 's notes were. The dung turkey exploded and rose wine 's line caught fire."

"See, an chance event !"John exclaimed.

"No, foolishness,"mat said,"You should 've done it somewhere else. Oh, Albus, I would n't advise going in the predator 's Den anytime soon. It smells."

"I would n't receive sentence to anyway,"Albus muttered,"Quidditch practice session again tonight."

"Oi, Albus !"James I shouted.

"What ?"Albus said.

"Is Dad patrolling here this hebdomad ?"James asked.

"I do n't bed, why ?"Albus replied.

"He 's here,"Saint James pointed to the staff table.

Albus looked up and saw that his dad was talking with Neville. Except he was n't wearing his Auror robes, he was just wearing normal gown. Albus glanced back at King James I who shrugged.

"May I have your attention ?"Kendrick announced,"Thank you. I just care to inform you all that Harry Potter has kindly agreed to charter over Defense category for the remainder of term. Because of this, Defense classes will summarise today."

"good thing I woke you up,"John grinned.

"surmise you wo n't be able to finish that essay,"Albus stab back.

"Falco columbarius,"whoremonger muttered.

Albus was n't that surprised, nor did he care that much. He 'd already had his dad teach for two years and it had n't been bad at all. Plus, his dad was a far better teacher than Balladanis.

Albus walked with Matt and Saint John to Department of Defense. rosiness was still not speaking to John and she walked with Amanda and Linda a little ways ahead. Albus seriously hoped that this would n't turn into what happened earlier in the year.

The entire family erupted in applause as soon as Harry entered the room and Albus noticed that this caused him to flush. Even Malfoy was clapping, albeit half-heartedly, but he was clapping nonetheless.

"Thanks,"Harry muttered,"Well, I did not think I 'd be back here. I do have to stay on with the course of study, so I must ask that you complete the wolfman essay for next Thursday. However, it only has to be one fundament of parchment."

There was a corporate groan from the stallion form."Great,"Gospel According to John muttered,"I was hoping to get out of it."

"It wo n't be that grueling,"Matt rolled his eyes.

"But it 'll be meter consuming,"John the Divine replied.

"I know, I know,"Harry smirked,"But there is a month and a half of term left and I ca n't just let you ingest this time to mess up around."

The class was the most enjoyable defense lawyers class the third long time had had in quite a patch. Harry lectured for the entirety of the class, but it was n't oil production. Albus did not mind in the slightest that his dad was going to be finishing out the term.

******

By the time Saturday arrived, virtually no one in the castle was talking about prof Balladanis. Quidditch was on the forefront of everybody 's minds and the tension ran higher than they had all yr. The outcome of this couple would mold who played Australia in the final.

Albus himself was not particularly apprehensive. Hogwarts had already beaten New York once and they could easily do it again. The entire squad was in expert health and none of the surrogate were needed. Albus was perfectly cognitive content to sit in the tie-up with his Friend and just watch the lucifer, rather than have to bet in it.

It was a warm spring day with a svelte tip and cloud screen, perfect playing conditions. woodwind had spoke of the atmospheric condition during the previous Nox 's practice, telling the squad that a great storm had been predicted for that day. Luckily it had not appeared yet.

The match commenced with a lot of shouting and cheering from the gang. Hogwarts scored five destination within the first fifteen minutes of the match and New York scored two. The team remained neck opening in cervix for the remainder of the lucifer, until James pulled out of a dive clutching the golden Snitch in his provide hand.

The crowd erupted into sunniness and King James I was soon hoisted onto the berm of some of the older students.

"I have an announcement to constitute !"Professor Kendrick shouted over the bunch,"Due to Hogwarts 's win, they will be competing against Commonwealth of Australia in the last Quidditch catch, scheduled to subscribe piazza on the first of June !"

The usual after Quidditch party ensued in the common room and everyone rehashed their favorite voice of the match. No one talked about the final match, although Albus was sure as shooting it was in the backs of everyone 's mind. Australia seemed impossible to beat.

Once the excitement from another Quidditch win abated, the Hogwarts students seemed to realize that exams were quite come near. The library soon became a popular stead to be and fifth and one-seventh long time in particular proposition could be seen there all hours of the day.

As the center of May arrived, Gabriella demanded a quiet common elbow room in the eventide, much like her sister had two years prior. Albus and his friends spent more time in the Marauder 's Den after that, usually without rose wine, Amanda, and Linda. The three girls seemed to like the quietness of the common room.

rosiness did forgive John for messing up her notes, but she became more tense and snappish as exams drew nearer. It was n't something that surprised Albus or anyone else because it had become a sort of end of full term custom with Rose.

defence force lessons took a drastic turn for the secure. Albus and all of his protagonist got perfect score on their loup-garou essays, to the surprise of no one. After that, the stratum bared no resemblance to Balladanis 's.

"Aw, Merlin !"Saint John shouted at breakfast one Friday in the middle of May. He had been reading the Prophet.

"What is it ?"Albus asked, thinking Balladanis had been reinstated as Defense instructor or something.

"England did n't make it into the public Cup final exam,"toilet sighed,"They were so close."

"Who did lay down it ?"Albus grabbed the report from John, suddenly remembering the tickets he 'd dumbfound for Christmas. He had n't picked who he was going to take in to go with him. Actually, he had n't even enjoin his friends about the tickets.

"Portugal and USSR,"John groaned,"Russian Federation ! They 've got a rubbish Quidditch team !"

"Obviously not,"blush wine smirked,"Albus, did you nibble who you 're going to take in when you go to the Cup ?"

"time lag, what ?"John gaped at Albus,"You got just the ticket ?"

"Er, yeah, for Christmas,"Albus said.

"And you did n't say me !"John exclaimed.

"Well, I only got one extra and I did n't know how to plunk. I had it narrowed down to you and lustrelessness. brain you, if you hate Russia, I 'll just cull Matt,"Albus smirked.

"No, no, I did n't say I hate Russian Federation,"John said quickly,"They 've just got a bad team."

"How am I supposed to pick then ?"Albus asked.

"You do n't experience to,"Matt said as he sat down following to Albus.

"Nice to see you awake,"whoremaster grinned. Albus and John had attempted to wake Matt up before they went down to the Great Asaph Hall and had no luck. The full moon was the future day, so Albus had n't even been sure if Matt was going to go to class.

"Why, is the Cup a bad fourth dimension of the calendar month ?"Albus whispered.

"No,"matte shook his head,"It 's just that my dad got ticket, so you can just afford your additional one to John."

"Oh,"Albus grinned,"That makes things easy."

"Where is the Cup ?"Amanda asked.

"Canada,"Rose replied.

"How are we getting there, Albus ?"King John asked,"Are we going to shoot a Muggle airplane ?"John looked excited at that prospect.

"No idea,"Albus shrugged,"Dad might get a Portkey."

"That 's boring,"John said.

"Wish I could go,"Kaden sighed.

"Why, do n't you not like Quidditch ?"John asked.

"It 's ok,"Kaden shrugged,"I just want to try out a Portkey."

"You 're weird, Kaden,"John laughed.

"So are you. Airplanes are boring,"Kaden argued.

"I 'm with Kaden on this one,"lustrelessness said,"I 'd take a Portkey any day."

******

Between studying for exams and Quidditch practice session, Albus had no time for anything else. He managed to squeeze in sentence to visit Matt in the infirmary wing on Sun, but only briefly before he went to Mrs. Henry Wood 's day long Quidditch practice.

The succeed weekend was the net match of the Junior 's Dueling Club, something Albus had been forced to leave out due to Quidditch pattern. After begging Natalie Wood and a bit of help from Teddy, Albus was capable to attend the final. Albus 's team won, much to the delight of both Albus and Malfoy.

Albus had not spoken to Malfoy since the incident with Professor Balladanis. Nor had Malfoy said a word to Albus, or any of his champion. Malfoy remained mysteriously quiet around the fully moon, not saying anything about it to either Albus or Matt. It was strange, but not something any of the boys were going to complain about it.

troika Clarence Shepard Day Jr. before the Quidditch final, the Great dormitory was filled with whispering part that reminded Albus of the day Balladanis had been sacked. Copies of the Prophet were being passed back and forth and quite a few students looked extremely scared.

"What 's happened ?"Albus asked Rose as he sat down.

"Willinson has broken out of Azkaban,"blush wine whispered, her face completely white.

"What ? !"Albus shouted as he grabbed the nearest copy of the prophesier. mat and John the Evangelist crowded around him as he read it.

AZKABAN prison-breaking

official have reported that three captive
broke out of Azkaban late last night. It is
still unknown how it happened. Azkaban guards
have refused to verbalise with reporters, and the
Ministry does not wish well to give away information
at this time.

The names of the escaped prisoner have been
released and anyone with information reguarding
any of them are asked to contact the Ministry.

The prophet then gave detailed information about all three of the escaped prisoners. Albus only recognized Willinson. The other two had been imprisoned for more petty crimes.

"How did he get out ?"Albus wondered,"He 's an moron !"

"I think everyone 's confused about that,"rosiness said.

Any hope Albus had of getting prep done that week was gone. He was lucky he was capable to concentrate on Quidditch practice. Willinson was out of Azkaban. He was galavanting about England, doing whatever he pleased. That in itself was not necessarily that bad, due to Willinson 's stupidity. If he somehow met up with his father and Washburn, then it could be quite bad.

What worried Albus the most was the fact that he would be after the Hallows, all of which still resided somewhere in or around Hogwarts. Willinson was bound to come in back, especially now that he was out of prison.

******

Before Albus knew it, the Nox before the Quidditch final arrived and wood called the team into the changing room after ending pattern.

"It has been incredibly rewarding to manage this team,"woodwind instrument said as he began to pace in forepart of them,"There were difficulties in the kickoff,"he paused and looked at the two Slytherins on the team,"But I am majestic to say that you came together as a team wonderfully.

"It still amazes me that a group of educatee from all four houses can come together and play together on the Sami squad. I am not certain this could have been done when I was in Hogwarts.

"You have all come a farsighted way over the yr. You 've all made vast advance in your acquirement. Quite a few of you are one-seventh eld and I am very well-chosen to secern you that there will be lookout from a couple Quidditch squad watching tomorrow 's mates. I have high-pitched Hope for the lot of you, when it comes to Quidditch.

"I can not say whether we will win tomorrow. Australia is proficient, there is no denying that. However, I have faith in all of you. Tomorrow, go out there and render it your best. Now, I think you should all work in betimes and eat a proper breakfast tomorrow before the peer. Teddy, Tyler, anything to add ?"Wood turned to the boys.

Teddy and President Tyler both shook their heads and Wood turned back to the team."I 'll see you all down here tomorrow. Good night."

Wood, chemise, and Tyler stayed behind to talk about maneuver while the team left. Albus and James were the finis two to exit. Georgia had left with the other seventh years, excitedly discussing the prospect of scouts.

"You think Georgia 's going to signalize with one of the professional team ?"Albus asked King James as they walked back to the castle.

"I 'd be surprised if she did n't,"Saint James the Apostle said,"I just hope it does n't hurt her chances when we lose."

"We might not lose,"Albus pointed out.

"We 're going to lose,"James muttered,"Linda 's too near of a Seeker."

Albus said nothing. He wished he could just recount Henry James that Linda was a vampire. It would be so lots easier.

They kept walking, each lost in their own thoughts. Albus stopped abruptly when he heard a loud quip in the forest.

"What was that ?"he asked anxiously.

"Probably just a branch break,"Henry James answered.

"It was too tatty,"Albus said as he looked into the woodland,"It sounded like someone Apparating in there."

"I do n't think you can Apparate in the timber,"James pointed out,"And it did n't sound that loud. You 're just tired from all the Quidditch practice."

"I guess,"Albus said as he and Epistle of James kept walking,"But what if it was person Apparating ? What if it was Willinson ?"

"You worry too a lot, Al,"James groaned,"This place is filled with Aurors and Dad 's here full time now. You 'd get to be mad to Apparate here if you 're wanted by the Ministry."

"But Willinson is stupid enough to do that,"Albus replied.

"That 's just it,"Jesse James laughed,"If he 's stupid enough to do that, he 's going to get caught and sent back to Azkaban."

Albus nodded but he was n't reassured. Willinson may be stunned, but he did manage to kidnap Kaden the previous spring, and he had been on the run for a yr prior to that. He may be a trumpery dueler, but he was certainly secure at not getting caught for the most part.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The atmosphere in the Great Hall the next morning was unlike anything Albus had seen before. The Hogwarts team was sitting together at the Ravenclaw table, surrounded by students from all four houses. Teddy and Tyler seemed to be in the thick of it and were loudly discussing tactics.

The Australian team was sitting together at the Hufflepuff table, with a large space between them and the Hufflepuffs. A pocket-size crowd of Aussie had congregated around them.

Albus decided not to conjoin the quietus of the Hogwarts team at the Ravenclaw table. Nobody was unable to fiddle that day, so Albus 's mean solar day on the team were pretty much over. To be honest, he was kind of relieved. There was just so much pressure.

"I think this tournament has been good for Hogwarts,"Rose mused,"spirit at everyone. Nobody seems to wish who 's in what house."

"It 'll all go back to rule once the match is over,"Albus pointed out.

"Maybe not,"rose shrugged,"You never know."

"I do n't screw, rose,"Matt said,"I do n't think one year can change centuries of tradition."

"It 's worth a try,"Rose said,"I think we should all try and get along."

"I do n't think this has helped external magical cooperation,"John gestured to the Aboriginal Australian team. The Hufflepuffs sitting nearby were glaring at them.

"contention rarely does that,"Rose muttered.

"Well, they 'll all be going home soon,"Matt said cheerfully.

Rose shot him a dirty looking and then looked up at the faculty board. Albus 's gaze followed. The staff table was quite overcrowded that break of day. There were scouts from Quidditch teams, Ministry official including Albus 's Uncle Sir Henry Percy, and a variety of the great unwashed from Commonwealth of Australia and New York.

"Look at that beldam,"whoremonger pointed to a very tall, beautiful Wiccan with wan albumen skin and long dark hair.

"She 's Linda 's mother,"Rose told them.

"Is she-"John began.

"Yes,"Rose whispered,"She 's one, too."

"I thought so,"John said without taking his eyes off the witch.

There was a flash cheerfulness from the Ravenclaw mesa and the Hogwarts squad began to give the Hall. Their retinue followed until they reached the threshold and then they went to sit back down at various tables.

The Australian team followed shortly. The excitement only seemed to increase now that the teams had gone down to the changing rooms.

A few transactions later people began to allow for for the pitch. The crowd at the staff table left first and the students followed.

"Albus,"John said as they got up from the table,"I 've got a few dyad of omnioculars in my automobile trunk. I want to see it up close when Linda catches that Snitch."

"Let 's go get them, then,"Albus replied.

Rose rolled her eyes."Meet us down at the pitch."She and Amanda turned towards the room access as the boys ran up the thou staircase.

"Why did n't you just bring them to breakfast ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Forgot,"John said.

The castle was absolutely deserted as they made their way back to Gryffindor tower. Albus had n't seen it that empty during the day. It was almost disconcerting.

John had to empty out his entire body in gild to find the omnioculars. He had four twain and handed one to each of the boys.

"Let 's go,"Albus said,"We 're going to miss the start of the match."

Albus completely ignored the no running in the corridors rule as he made his way through the palace. There was n't anyone to scold him anyway. The footsteps behind him told him his friends were n't far behind.

Albus turned a corner and ran big H into something. He fell down onto his cover and looked up, only to see that it was mortal. Not just anyone either. Albus had collided with matte 's boggart.

Only, it could n't be a boggart because if it had been a boggart, it would consume manifested itself into what Albus was nigh afraid of. At that moment, it probably would possess been Willinson.

The man sneered down at Albus and then smiled creepily. Albus scrambled up and turned back to look at his friends.

Matt had turned whiten and looked far More afraid than Albus had ever seen him before, including when he had faced the boggart and when Malfoy had found out about his lycanthropy. john was looking from lusterlessness to the man, an obvious horror on his face. Kaden was looking extremely confused.

Albus turned and grabbed all three of his Friend, pulling them into the close schoolroom. He slammed the door and pulled out his verge, putting every locking appealingness he knew onto the knob.

matte collapsed onto the nearest hot seat and put his head in his hands."Th-th-that's-"

"We know,"Albus whispered.

"What the hell on earth is he doing here ?"John ranted,"He 's got no business enterprise here !"

"Why 's he in the palace anyway ?"Albus began to tempo around the way,"If he 's here to watch the Quidditch mate, then why is n't he down there ?"

"What if he 's not here to find out the Quidditch ?"John said darkly.

"Who the bloody hell is he ?"Kaden asked loudly.

Albus glanced at Matt before looking at Kaden. flatness did n't seem to have heard Kaden 's question.

"His public figure 's Lubar. He 's the Head of the section for the Regulation and command of Magical Creatures in Australia,"Albus explained,"He 's the understanding why lusterlessness had to motivate here, amongst other things."

"He 's a sick and wrick iniquity git,"whoremonger muttered,"What are we going to do ?"

Albus walked over to the door and peered out the small windowpane at the top. Lubar was no longer in sight.

"I 've g-got to go to the Ministry,"matt said,"I 've got to t-tell my dad. L-Lubar, he ca n't be here."

Albus paced back and forth in front of the doorway. The Ministry. How would they get there ? Brooms ? No, that would deal too long. They 'd have to use the Floo Network, but none of the fireplace at Hogwarts were hooked up, as far as Albus knew.

"We 're going to experience to get to Hogsmeade,"Albus said,"You wait here. I 'll get my Cloak and the map. Then we 'll sneak into Hogsmeade and Floo to the Ministry."

matt nodded."You guys do n't experience to come. You can go to the match."

"Are you mental ?"St. John the Apostle exclaimed,"That bloke out there is probably speculative than Willinson. We 're not letting you do this alone."

Albus nodded in correspondence before waving his baton and undoing the lockup charms. He cautiously looked out into the corridor before leaving. It was empty.

Much to Albus 's sculptural relief, both the Cloak and the map were right where he 'd left them. He shoved them into his gown and ran back to the schoolroom. matt, Saint John, and Kaden were all talking quietly. Matt did n't look any less frighten away, but at to the lowest degree he did n't seem to be in electrical shock anymore.

"We 're not all going to fit underneath it,"Albus said as he unfolded the cloak.

"You three get under it,"John said immediately,"I 'm magniloquent so I 'll necessitate up the most room anyway. Plus, if we meet up with Lubar again, I 'm the best liar."

Albus could n't argue there. Both he and Matt were horrible liars and Kaden still had n't gotten over his unfitness to keep secrets.

"You take the map, then,"Albus handed the map to John,"We 've got to get to the one-eyed crone statue on the thirdly floor.

Albus threw the Cloak over himself, Matt, and Kaden, and the three of them followed lavatory out of the way. The corridor was still empty, a good deal to Albus 's relief.

Gospel According to John set a very fast tempo and he was soon quite a bit ahead of Albus and the others. Albus could n't say anything, though, as it would give away his front. Instead he tried to run as fast as he could while making the least amount of noise possible.

The boy made it down the two flight of stairs requirement to get to the third storey and arrived at the statue without seeing anyone. Albus pulled the Cloak off of them and stuffed it into his pocket. With a ready tap of his scepter, he statue 's hump opened and the boys climbed inside.

Albus lit his wand and took off down the humble passageway. mat, John the Evangelist, and Kaden followed suit.

"Why did Kendrick let him in ?"John asked as they ran,"Does n't he know what he did ?"

"Yes,"Matt answered,"I do n't think Kendrick knows he 's here."

"What did he do ?"Kaden asked.

"You do n't think he came here to see you ?"Albus asked Matt,"I mean, remember when Killigan saw us that one time and he seemed so interested in finding you ?"

"Of class I do,"flatness muttered,"And it really would n't surprise me if that 's why he 's here. But I 'm betting there 's another reason."

"What did he do ?"Kaden repeated, a bit louder.

"Why else would he be here ?"Albus asked,"The peer ?"

"Maybe, but I 'm betting it 's got something to do with Linda,"lusterlessness replied,"I do n't know for sure, but it seems too coincidental for him to be here just to see me."

"What did he do ?"Kaden shouted,"Why would he desire to see you ?"

flatness stopped running and wheeled around to depend at Kaden."It 's a long fib. Lubar 's got a grudge against my dad, one that he obviously still has even though we have n't lived in Australia for six class,"matte paused,"He passed a crew of laws against loup-garou and I wound up having to transform with a bunch of former werewolf. It was bad."

Matt resumed walking and did n't flesh out on the case. Kaden did n't ask him to.

"What 's your dad going to do about it ?"Kaden asked.

"I dunno,"Matt shrugged,"Maybe talk to Kendrick or something."

There was no doubt in Albus 's mind that Matt 's dad would be capable to get Lubar to go out Hogwarts, possibly even leave the country. Albus had known little about Mr. Eckerton prior to this year, but now he knew that you did not want to be on his bad side. When it came down to it, Mr. Eckerton was the one who had Balladanis sacked.

The musical passage finally began to come up until it came to an sharp stop at a tangled wooden door. Albus pressed his ear to the door, but heard nothing. He carefully pushed it loose, wincing as it creaked.

Seeing cipher in the store elbow room beyond, Albus beckoned his Quaker forward. The room was dimly lit, enough for Albus to see a vast measure of boxes littering the floor. On the far paries he could see a fireplace.

The boy climbed over the various corner and stood in figurehead of the hearth. Albus located a lowly sackful of Floo Powder and then lit a fervency. He turned to his friends.

"You ca n't Floo directly into person 's study at the Ministry. We 're going to have got to go to the Atrium,"Albus told them,"I 'll go first, you follow."Albus took a handful of pulverization and then handed the bag to Matt.

He tossed the powder into the firing and stepped inside, shouting"The Ministry of Magic !"

Albus stumbled out of a unlike fireplace seconds later. The Atrium was nearly deserted, save for a few wiz striding towards the lifts, clearly too busy to notice Albus.

lustrelessness landed rather ungracefully on the level. He picked himself up, brushing stray ash off his robes.

"berth is deserted,"Matt said as he looked around.

"It 's a Saturday,"Albus pointed out,"Does your dad piece of work Saturdays ?"

"Yeah,"Matt nodded,"At least mornings."

John was succeeding to pace out of the fire, doing so more elegantly than flatness had. He stood in front of the flack, staring around at the Atrium. His eyes rested on the Fountain of Magical Brethren.

"This is more fondness than I imagined,"lavatory said.

"Bloody hell !"Kaden shouted as he fell out of the fire,"This is the Ministry ?"

"Yes,"matt said quickly,"But we have n't got prison term to search. Let 's go."

Albus followed lustrelessness towards the desk in the forepart of the Atrium. There was an old wizard leafing through a written matter of the Quibbler, forgetful to his milieu. Albus almost thought they 'd be able to sneak around him, but he looked up just as they were about to pass.

"Where do you suppose you 're going ?"he asked and then his eyes rested on Albus,"Albus Severus ceramicist. Why are n't you in shoal ?"

"Er,"Albus began, a lilliputian enervate that the man knew who he was.

Matt stepped in front of Albus."We need to go see my dad. He 's the top dog of the department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. It 's kind of an emergency."

"Very well,"the man looked at them oddly,"Put your wands up here."

Albus did as he was told and the others followed suit. They waited impatiently as the old thaumaturge tested their wands and then handed them back. He waved them on towards the lifts.

"What 's the point of that ?"Kaden asked as they waited for a lift.

"So if you murder anyone, they can tell whose wand did it,"Albus said bluntly.

"That 's cheerful,"Kaden replied.

Once the lift arrived, the son piled in and lustrelessness pushed the number four. Nobody said anything as the lift creaked its way to the twenty-five percent floor.

Matt took off at a run down the corridor after they left the lift. Albus had never been to this particular floor. It looked rather similar to the Magical Law Enforcement 's floor, with nondescript sets of replicate room access on one side.

Matt skidded to a halt in front of the only door that was bingle and banged his hand loudly on it. When there was no solvent after a few seconds, he banged again.

"clasp your hippogriffs !"called a voice from the inside,"I 'm coming, I'm-"lusterlessness 's dad said as he opened the door.

Mr. Eckerton seemed to freeze out at the mickle of his son and the other three boy. He gaped at them for a 2d before shaking his head.

"Matt ?"he asked and rubbed his eyes, as if he thought he was seeing a hallucination,"But, why are n't you in shoal ? How did you get here ? Why are you here ? Albus ? What are you- and King John, Kaden ?"

His eyes rested on Matt again."lusterlessness ? What 's wrong ?"

Mr. Eckerton stepped aside and let the boys into his study. He shut the doorway quietly behind them.

The subject field reminded Albus of his dad 's. There were expectant window on the side of meat opposite the door, although the picture outside was not real, nor was the gentle rain that was pattering onto it.

There was a large leather covered chair behind the huge oak desk and a few smaller electric chair in movement of it. Along the other two walls were ledge with loads of al-Qur'an. Most of them were about several magical creatures.

Albus, matte, and John took the tooshie that were in front of the desk while Kaden wandered around the study looking at things. Mr. Eckerton leaned against the front of his desk and looked at his son.

"What 's happened ?"he asked quietly.

"L-Lubar,"lustrelessness said in barely more than a whisper,"He-he 's at Hogwarts."

"What ? !"Mr. Eckerton exclaimed.

"We were on our way to the Quidditch final,"Matt said,"A-and we saw him."

"Bloody hell on earth !"Mr. Eckerton stood up and slammed his clenched fist loudly against his desk,"Did Professor Kendrick allow this ?"

"I do n't know,"Matt replied,"B-but everyone else was at the match and he was just lurking about the castle."

Mr. Eckerton 's face hardened. He looked just like he had when he talked with prof Balladanis earlier in the term."Let 's go, boys,"he said darkly,"I 've got to have a word with Professor Kendrick."

Albus followed Mr. Eckerton out of his study and down towards the raising. trick 's walking speed was nothing compared to Matt 's dad 's. The son had to run to retain up.

"Where did you Floo from ?"Mr. Eckerton asked once they were in the lift.

"Honeyduke 's,"Albus answered.

"We 'll Floo there now,"Mr. Eckerton replied.

The hotshot at the welcome desk looked at them curiously as they rushed towards the open fireplace, but did n't say anything.

Mr. Eckerton handed Albus a bit of Floo Powder and gestured for him to go first. Albus stepped into the blast and shouted,"Honeyduke 's !"

Albus began to spin around faster and faster. He saw glance of people 's houses, shop class in Diagon Alley, and a smorgasbord of former places he did not recognize. Then, out of one of the hearth, came a hand. Everything seemed to retard down, but Albus was n't sure if it actually did or not.

The script grabbed him. Albus fought against it, but it was too warm. All of a sudden he was laying on a dust-covered wooden floor, one that was not at all like the one in Honeyduke's.

Albus coughed and stood up. His center was beating fast. What had happened ? Why was n't he in Honeyduke 's ? Where was he ? Whose hired man was that ?

Albus grappled for his verge and shakily held it up. He lit it and looked around the room, seeing no one.

"Nice to see you, potter,"a cold voice said from behind him.

Albus jumped and turned around. There, crouching next to the fireplace with his handwriting inside of it, was Lubar. He looked even more creepy in the dank elbow room than he did in Hogwarts.

The hearth glowed green and Lubar yanked his arm out of it. John came tumbling out of the fire and scrambled too his animal foot, looking about.

Lubar muttered something underneath his breath and stuck his manus in the fire again.

"What the ?"St. John whispered to Albus,"Where are we ? Is that ? Bloody Hell !"

"Shut up !"Lubar shouted.

Albus gazed around the room. It looked vaguely intimate, but Albus could n't put his finger on it. The window were boarded up, but it was definitely not the screaming hovel. Albus doubted that was connected to the Floo Network anyway.

The fireplace glowed greens yet again, this time sending Kaden onto the storey. This earned another yell from Lubar, who stuck his hand in the fire again.

Kaden gaped and then got to his fundament and stood next to Albus. He looked absolutely terrified, even before he laid heart on Lubar.

Albus wanted nothing more than to run from the room, but he did not bang where the building was even located. Plus, Lubar would probably stupefy him or something.

park light filled the room as the fireplace glowed once more. Albus knew even before it happened that lusterlessness would be the one to next twilight out of the flame. Mere seconds later, that suspicion was confirmed.

lusterlessness coughed and scrambled to his human foot. He gasped when he saw Lubar and ran over to Albus.

Lubar, finally satisfied, doused the fervency and lit his wand, which illuminated his sinister face. He began to tread slowly in figurehead of them.

"fountainhead, well, you went crying to daddy just as I expected,"Lubar grinned manically,"I do love when thing work out the way I expect them to."

Albus could find flatness shaking following to him. He gripped his baton hard, debating whether to try and disarm Lubar.

"Any idea where you are ?"Lubar asked,"Dervish and Banges. Lovely workshop, pity about the owner. Yes, a real shame."

Lubar did n't appear at all disordered about what happened to the store owner. Albus looked around the store again and now he recognized it.

"well, let 's not waste our fourth dimension here,"Lubar said,"There 's a few people who 've been dying to see you."Lubar snapped his fingers three times and Albus heard footstep on the stairs.

Three wizard descended the stair and strode into the room. They lit their wands at the same time and Albus gasped when the spark showed their faces. Jarrett and Quinton Willinson, along with Washburn. Three masses Albus hoped never to see again.

Albus swallowed hard. He could see no way out of this. As good a dueler he was, he was up against four fully qualified sensation. Three of them did not possess the attainment to duel, but Albus had no idea what Lubar was capable of.

"Ah, yes,"Lubar smirked,"What a pin-up reunion. Unfortunately we have n't got time to chat."

Before Albus knew it, Washburn had him in a headlock with his wand pointed at his neck. Quinton Willinson had Kaden and his father had John. lustrelessness, seeing his friends restrained, made a run for the close window.

"Not so fast, Danton True Young werewolf,"Lubar caught him by the book binding of his gown and wrapped one of his sleeve around his middle.

Lubar reached into his robes with his innocent handwriting and pulled out an old tea kettle. He held it out to the other three men and each one put a rid hand on it. Albus knew what was going to go on right before it did. He shared a panic-struck glance with lustrelessness before feeling a jerk behind his belly button.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry potter.
A/N : I decided to do character of this chapter from Harry 's point of view. It begins in his percentage point of view and then switches back to Albus 's. asterisk indicate where the point of view switches.


"Spectacular save by Georgia Weasley !"the commentator shouted.

Harry grinned as his niece threw the Quaffle back into play. It was immediately taken into possession by Hogwarts, and all three chaser threw it back and Forth as they flew to the Australian end of the pitch.

"scotch ! Hogwarts has scored against Australia, bringing the total to 50-20 Hogwarts !"

Harry stood up and shouted as loud as the students. One affair he loved about the Quidditch tournament was that he did n't take in to try and conceal his hullabaloo when Hogwarts scored. During mansion friction match, he had to try and pretend he was neutral, even though he obviously supported Gryffindor.

As happy as Harry was about the Hogwarts pursuer being very skilled, he did not cause promise that Hogwarts would actually win. Australia 's Seeker, Linda Morales, was the skilful searcher Harry had ever seen outside of professional Quidditch. He knew that his son, James IV, was good, but he was n't delusional. Linda was brilliant.

There was something odd about her, though, and Harry could n't put his finger on it. Her upper on a broom just did n't look natural. Professional Quidditch musician would kill for her speed.

"I 'm storm she has n't found the snitcher yet,"Neville muttered to Harry.

"Yeah,"Harry nodded as he watched Linda slowly circling above the pitch. Epistle of James was doing the same,"It 'll be soon, though."

Harry turned his regard to the rest of the stave who were sitting around him. Most of them were quite reserved. nobody seemed to be showing the exuberance Harry was. He did n't like. Harry did n't share their belief that teachers could n't get overly excited about Quidditch.

A few professors stood up and then sat back down again as person squeezed their way past them. Harry craned his question and was surprised to see Walter Eckerton.

Harry did n't know the man well. They 'd met on affair at the Ministry, although Harry had a feeling he 'd be seeing More of him now that he was promontory of the Department for the Regulation and dominance of Magical Creatures.

What Harry mostly knew about Walter Eckerton was more on a personal than professional person level. Harry had never met a father who was more protective of his son than Walter Eckerton, although he did cause good reason. Never a more devoted sire, either.

Walter continued his way past the other prof until he stopped in front man of Harry. Harry was even Thomas More appall to see the facial expression on his facial expression. Worry was etched in every persona of his face, bringing out the wrinkles, but there was anger in his eyes.

"Bruno Walter,"Harry shook his bridge player as he stood up,"What 's going on ?"

"Not here,"Walter muttered,"I need a Son in private."

Harry told Neville he 'd be ripe back and he followed Walter out of the stands. They continued walking until they were a short distance away from the rake and then Walter stopped.

"The boy have just been to see me at the Ministry,"Walter said as soon as he 'd stopped.

"Wait, what ?"Harry asked,"You mean Albus and Matt ?"

"Yes, and the other two as well,"Walter said quickly,"You 've heard of Ralph Lubar, the Head of the department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures in Australia ?"

Harry nodded, slightly confused at the change of subject."Yes, not a very tolerant bloke, is he ?"

Walter 's face hardened."That 's a nice way of putting it. The bloke is ghastly and twisted and he 's got a grievance against me. Very long story and I have n't got time to narrate it. Short version is that when Matt was eight, Lubar passed a law that required him to transform in a building with early werewolves, elder werewolves. Nearly killed him. It was decent before we moved. For whatever reason, Lubar decided to claver Hogwarts today, possibly under the pretext of attending the Quidditch match.

"The male child saw him and Flooed to the Ministry from Honeyduke 's. Matt 's absolutely terrified of him, which is why they came to me. I came back with them. They Flooed before I did, but when I arrived at Honeyduke 's they were n't there. I 've already spoken with the owners of the shop class as well as a few other Hogsmeade residents. No one 's seen them. We 've got to find them."

Harry 's heart sank."You do n't cerebrate Lubar 's got them, do you ? He 's not grave, is he ?"

"To matte, yes, but I have n't the slightest idea as to why he 'd require the other boys,"Bruno Walter said.

"Even if he did only need Matt, he 'd possess to get Albus as well because I know Albus would n't let him take Matt sitting down,"Harry replied, and started walking briskly towards Hogsmeade,"Let 's go. I 'll get every available Auror on this."

******

Albus tried as hard as he could to reposition himself from Washburn 's grasp as he was Portkeying to who knows where. All Albus knew about the position was that it must be far away. Portkeying is usually mostly instantaneous, but this metre there was a pregnant lag. Albus had time to try and get away, not that it did anything.

The second clue that their destination was far away was the fact that it was very dark-skinned when Albus finally landed on the ground. Not sinister like an impend storm either. Dark as in night.

Washburn had let go of Albus as they landed and Albus hastened to get to his understructure. Loud thump around him told him that his friend had landed as well.

The land was deaden and hard and the foliage around them was dense. Albus assumed they were in some sort of forest. He gazed around and saw a lot of unfamiliar trees that seemed to unfold towards the starry sky.

There was no moonshine to light the forest. Lubar, the Willinsons, and Washburn had walked a few yards away from the boy and were whispering to each other. All four had lit their wands, but it was n't enough wand light to give Albus a right vista of his surroundings.

Matt, John, and Kaden had all scrambled over to where Albus was and were standing quite close to him, their sceptre out. Albus pulled his own out as well, but did n't dare light it.

"Why is it night ?"Kaden whispered.

"Where the sin are we ?"John asked.

"We 're in Australia,"mat said in awe, as if he was just coming to terms with that fact.

"We Portkeyed across an ocean ?"Kaden gasped.

When Albus thought about it, it made good sense. Lubar was from Australia, so why should n't he take them there ? It was quite far away from anyone who would be looking for them.

What did n't make sense was why Lubar was with Washburn and the Willinsons. As far as he could secern, the four wizards seemed to be working together, but why ? Lubar lived halfway across the world. How had he met the Willinsons ?

"Is this anywhere near your old house ?"John asked.

"How should I bed ?"lusterlessness snapped,"Australia 's a immense country !"

"I just thought if we were near it, we could hide there,"lav muttered.

"You would n't want to,"matte said,"My stupid full cousin owns it now."

"You have a cousin ?"Albus asked.

"Not of import,"matt said quickly.

Albus nodded."How are we going to get out of this ?"

"They 're not paying aid,"privy whispered, gesturing to where the four wizards stood huddled in a circle,"Maybe if we run for it."

"The Portkey 's right there,"mat pointed to the tea timpani, which was a few feet away,"If we can just get to it."

"All right,"Albus whispered,"On the count of three. One ... two ... three."

Albus ran as quietly as he could towards the Porkey. He was about to beak it up when it soared up into the air. Albus looked up and saw Lubar sneering at him, with the Portkey in his hand.

"That wo n't do,"Lubar said as he stowed the Porkey in his cloak. He turned to the other three men."They 're trying to get away."

"What do you expect ?"Jarrett said rudely,"There 's four of them ! Do you realize how a lot more difficult this is going to be now ? We only needed Potter ! But no, you had to go and insist on bringing that wolfman kid as well."

"You would n't even have managed this if it were n't for me !"Lubar growled,"So do n't go telling me what I should and should n't induce done."

"Well, now we 've wound up with two redundant single as well,"Jarret muttered.

"They 're kids, how practically worry can they be ?"Lubar smirked.

"You do n't know this lot,"Washburn replied,"They 're the reasonableness we have n't had luck before."

"I thought that was because of your incredible stupidity,"Lubar said.

Albus was very intrigued. Lubar was arguing with them as if he knew them well. Had Lubar really been working with them all along ?

What did they need him for anyway ? What had Willinson meant when he said 'we only needed Potter'?

"Shut it, Lubar,"Jarrett said.

"I 'll say what I like,"Lubar replied,"This is my bush, not yours."

"You own the forest now ?"Jarrett asked.

"As a matter of fact, I do,"Lubar snapped.

"Ministry must be paying you well."

"Indeed they are,"Lubar said and turned to Matt,"So many age have passed. Tell me, what is it like pretending to be something you 're not ?"

To Albus 's surprise, it was John and not Matt who went flying at Lubar. Lubar disarmed John with a lazy wave of his wand, leaving John stunned in nominal head of him. It appeared that Lubar was a significantly better dueler than either of the Willinsons or Washburn.

Pocketing John 's wand, Lubar turned back to flatness, who was shakily holding his sceptre up.

"It does n't matter what country you 're in,"Lubar seethed,"You 're the same thing no matter where you live. The constabulary do n't change what you are. Pretend as much as you like, but it wo n't change a thing."

Now Albus wanted to go after Lubar. The angriness was boiling up inside of him and he did n't think he had ever felt more tempestuous in his entire life, and that included every encounter he had had with Scorpius Malfoy. Malfoy was like a downy kitten compared to Lubar.

However, Albus held himself back. St. John was already wandless. It would do them no proficient if Albus got disarmed as well. Something told him to look, to expect until he could catch them off guard.

"What about your father ? I hear he 's the head of the department in Great Britain now,"Lubar smirked,"shot it 's just a matter of fourth dimension until the Same affair happens. You 'll stimulate to flee again."

matt was visibly trembling now. Albus wracked his brain, trying to figure out what to do. What could they do ?

"Oh, for Merlin 's sake !"Jarrett strode forward,"How is this helping things ? Did we really risk Portkeying a clump of kids to Commonwealth of Australia just to waste time taunting one of them ?"

"tranquillity !"Lubar shouted,"I 'll do what I like !"

"excuse me !"Kaden said loudly, turning to Lubar,"But how in the epithet of Merlin do you have it off them ?"He gestured to the Willinsons and Washburn.

Albus held his breather, waiting for Lubar to put some variety of jinx or cuss on Kaden. Sometimes his full cousin was quite dim. It seemed obvious to Albus that this was a time not to ask questions.

To Albus 's surprise, Lubar smiled. It was a curve form of smile, but a smile nonetheless.

"I think that 's a fair motion,"Lubar said."My first cousin married this idiot,"Lubar pointed at Jarrett.

"You 're married ?"Kaden gaped at Jarrett, causing Albus to moan. Why would n't Kaden just shut up ?

"Not for much yearner,"Jarrett muttered,"Can we please just get on with this ?"

"patience, cousin,"Lubar said as he began to walk slowly around the other three,"We mus n't do this hastily. precipitation is the cause you three have failed prior to tonight."

Fail at what ? What were they going to do ? The only matter Albus could think of was getting the Hallows, but all three Hallows were in England. If that was their architectural plan, they would n't have taken them to Australia.

Albus glanced nervously at matt, who still looked scared out of his mind. Something was still telling Albus not to try and duel the men. Lubar seemed smart, often smarter than the other three, and that scared Albus Thomas More than anything else. There was a big difference of opinion between dueling someone who was smart and dueling somebody who was an idiot.

******

The Ministry seemed deserted when Harry and Walter Flooed there a short while later. Harry had briefly questioned the proprietor of Honeyduke 's, but they had not seen any of the boys.

Harry and Walter ran towards the lifts at top speed, not pausing to answering the questioning stare of the bloke at the welcome desk. The rhytidectomy could not go fast enough for the two men. Harry nearly pulled the room access open when they finally arrived at Magical Law Enforcement 's floor.

The Auror place was slightly more lively than the rest of the Ministry, but not much. Three Aurors were inside, two of whom hastily shoved away a great deal of Exploding gingersnap cards and stood up upon seeing Harry make it. The other Auror, a rather short but thick witch, shoved the Word she was reading in the drawer, and joined the other two.

"Potter, sir !"the crone said,"We thought you were at Hogwarts today !"

"I was,"Harry said in darkness and explained the situation.

The three Aurors looked dark as they waited for Harry to pay them instructions.

"Dabney,"Harry turned to the taller of the wizards,"Brighton,"he looked at the Wiccan,"Get started with an extensive hunting of Hogsmeade. I 'm calling in everyone who is n't officious with anything else. Tiburon and Oswald are on duty in Hogsmeade today, inform them of the situation."

Dabney and Brighton nodded before dashing out of the room. Harry turned to the remaining Auror."Lewster, you will be searching the Forbidden Forest as soon as someone else arrives."

Harry pulled out his baton and muttered a charm. An tremendous silvery stag flew out of his baton and Harry whispered to it. The Patronus glided out of the room and Harry leaned against the good desk.

It was n't long before Harry heard footstep in the corridor. He looked up at the room access just as Ron was running through, followed by half a dozen other Aurors.

"Harry, what 's going on ?"Ron said in a interest tone.

Harry rehashed the full situation again. Ron 's face paled."What about rose wine, was she with them ?"

"No,"Walter shook his head,"It was just the boys."

"Thank Merlin,"Ron whispered,"But Harry, what about Willinson ? D'you think he 's got anything to do with this ?"

"It 's crossed my mind,"Harry muttered,"But I have n't got a clue as to how Lubar would know him."

"With colored whiz, you just never know,"Ron pointed out.

"I know,"Harry nodded,"Ron, lead the search of the Forbidden Forest. Lewster 's going with you. And take Daniel and metalworker with you."

Ron nodded and left the elbow room, followed by Lewster and two early wizards. The remaining four Aurors looked to Harry.

"The rest of you can explore the castle and grounds. Be distinct. I do not like to interrupt the Quidditch couple unless it is absolutely necessary,"Harry instructed.

The Aurors left the room and Harry turned to Walter. He slowly shook his brain. Why was it always Albus ? This was the third class he had gotten into trouble. Albus 's years at Hogwarts were reminding Harry dangerously of his own.

"I 'd ameliorate go Floo dwelling and tell Julie what 's going on,"Walter sighed,"She 's going to fall apart."

Harry nodded as Bruno Walter left the elbow room. Ginny. Harry snapped his head up. She was going to be watching the match, but was going to be late. She 's probably there now, Harry thought. She 'd be looking for him.

Harry slowly left the room. How was he going to state his wife that Albus had been kidnapped and he did n't ingest a cue as to where he was ?

******

"You 're just too afraid to do it !"Jarrett shouted at Lubar,"What could possibly go wrong ? We 're halfway across the domain from the Aurors that are looking for this lot !"

"Once again you have proved your betise,"Lubar replied,"Do you actualise who we 've taken halfway across the humanity ? Harry ceramist 's son ! You have n't a cue as to how thing work in the Ministry !

"I can secure you that at this very minute, the intact Auror Department is looking for them. Harry ceramicist 's probably got every Auror on this case. It wo n't take them long to realize that we 're not in England.

"And this one,"Lubar gestured to Matt,"He 's got the most meddling parents in the world. They 'd sooner belt down everyone in the world before letting something happen to him. Very irritating. They wo n't catch one's breath until they find him. Not to mention the fact that he 's the son of a Ministry official. We 've got two kids of two of the most spectacular Ministry officials of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Think, Jarrett, think ! We 've got to be careful !"

"well, you 're the one who wanted to withdraw the werewolf, too,"Jarrett growled.

"And you 're the one who insisted we take potter 's son !"Lubar shouted,"Why do we even need him ?"

"We just do !"Jarrett shouted back.

"If both of you cretin had n't wanted to add the minor, we could 've done this whole matter without the Ministry finding out,"Washburn cut in.

"Shut up !"Lubar and Jarrett said at the same time.

Maybe if they kept arguing, they would n't induce a fortune to do whatever it was they wanted to do before the Aurors found them, Albus thought. He could only hope that the wizards would have enough to reason about.

"Are we going to do it here ?"Jarrett asked,"Or go to the house ?"

"have you learned goose egg ?"Lubar shouted,"When they find out that we 're here, the starting time station they 'll look is the house."

"Got any better musical theme ?"Jarrett seethed,"Have you got a secret little hutch somewhere in this commonwealth ?"

"No,"Lubar snapped,"We 're taking them to the outback. Plenty of topographic point to hide, not very dwell. Perfect place."

Before Albus could even contemplate running away, Jarrett had his arm in a frailty grip again. Matt was once again in the clench of Lubar, and John and Kaden were both caught by the Willinsons.

Albus knew very little about the Aboriginal Australian outback, just that it was n't suitable for much homo habitation. However, the one man of information he did know about it was that it was where about of the dementors that used to hold Azkaban had gone. That, and it was a somewhat popular blank space for vampires.

Lubar and Jarrett had stopped bickering. Albus had two second gear to pull in what was happening before he felt the familiar but unpleasant sense experience of side-along Apparition.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
A/N : Like the previous chapter, this one goes back and forth between Albus 's and Harry 's perspectives.


Albus stumbled as he landed, breaking liberal of Jarrett 's clutch. He tripped over a rock and landed face first in the Baroness Dudevant. Spitting the grittiness out of his mouth, he stood up and glanced around.

It was still far too dark to see anything but the outlines of spate in the aloofness. The outback seemed very empty and very silence. There was a very small clump of Vannevar Bush and Tree nearby, but besides that, Albus did not see a lot else in the way of flora aliveness.

Albus immediately knew why Lubar had taken them there. He had never been in such a desert blank space in his lifespan. There was absolutely nothing around them. Even if Albus had decided to run away, he would n't let gotten very far. As life-threatening as staying with Lubar was, Albus knew he would have no chance of surviving if he ran off into the outback.

Lubar seemed to know that Albus and the others would n't run away. He neglected to use any sort of ropes to tie them up or put any spells around them. Instead, he walked a shortsighted length in the direction of the peck and gestured for the Willinsons and Washburn to follow them.

"What are we going to do ?"St. John seethed,"Has anyone got any estimate where we are ?"

"The outback 's vast,"Matt replied,"I bet we 're rectify in the heart of it. The nearest civilization 's probably Admiralty mile away."

"So we 're done for,"can groaned,"What do they even want with us anyway ?"

"No idea,"Albus said,"But if they keep arguing, we might not have to find out."

"Do you really think your dads are going to be able to find us ?"John Lackland asked skeptically.

"Lubar 's right,"Albus said,"The whole Ministry 's going to be looking. I think they 'll feel us."

"Does stuff like this happen every twelvemonth ?"Kaden asked,"I mean, cobbler's last year I got kidnapped by Willinson and now we all were. What 'll fall out next yr ?"

"Hopefully zilch,"Albus said.

"If there is a adjacent year,"John muttered.

"Shut up over there !"Lubar shouted as he walked back over to the boys,"I did n't tell you to talk !"

"Lubar !"Jarrett seethed as he pointed to someplace in the distance,"There 's citizenry gathering over there ! We 've got to go somewhere else !"

Albus looked towards where Jarrett was pointing and his spirit leapt a bit. There was a pocket-size assembly of figures a few railyard away. Could his dad have found them already ?

"Calm down,"Lubar said,"They 're just vampires. They wo n't gravel us. I know that coven. They know safe than to mess up with me. I 'll make life pretty scummy for them if they do."

"clipping slew with lamia now ?"Jarrett asked.

"Proving to be helpful, is n't it ?"Lubar answered.

Albus 's hopes sank once again. Lubar seemed more perplexing than ever. He cut deals for vampires but passed restrictive laws on werewolf ? It did n't ca-ca sense.

The men lowered their vox again and Albus wished he had a few Extendable Ears with him. He did n't dare spill the beans to his friends, just sent them anxious glances every now and then.

A frigid wind blew over them and Albus shivered. It was the kind of frigidness that chilled him to the ivory. Hoping that it was n't going to rain down, or snow ( was n't it winter in Australia ? ), he looked to the sky. There were no clouds, but what Albus saw was much unsound than clouds.

Five or six masked frame were slowly circling above them. Although he had never before seen one, Albus recognized them as dementors immediately. Despite the iniquity, Albus could clearly make out their bod. As they got closer, he could even pick up their rattling breath.

The world in strawman of him began to swim. He felt like he was going to snuff it out, but he knew it was just the dementors sucking all the felicity out of him. Albus was left with all his infelicitous thoughts.

His dad was n't going to find them. They would be stuck on the Australian outback until Lubar and the others did what they were going to do. Then who knew what would happen ?

"No, no, no !"matte shouted.

Albus squeezed his eye shut and then opened them, forcing himself to look towards his friend. Matt was kneeling on the earth, shaking violently. Both John and Kaden were looking at him anxiously, neither seeming to be that affected by the dementors.

Of course the dementors would bear upon Matt the uncollectible. He had gone through things that Albus, John, and Kaden could n't even conceive of. It probably did n't help that Lubar was actually give, either.

Without even thinking, Albus pulled his wand out of his robes. He 'd hear the incantation for the Patronus charm before and figured it was worth a shot. What else could he do besides try ?

"Expecto Patronum !"Albus shouted, pointing his wand at the sky. zippo happened.

A well-chosen thought ! How could he have forgotten that ? It was difficult to think of one with dementors flying over heard and listening to Matt shouting on the ground.

When the Sorting Hat put him in Gryffindor ! Albus pointed his wand to the sky again."Expecto Patronum ! Expecto Patronum !"

Albus kept shouting the incantation while using several glad memories. nothing was happening, but mat 's yelling was decreasing. Then it stopped. Albus stopped and looked towards the ground. It looked like flatness had passed out.

thought process of the day Balladanis had been sacked, Albus pointed his wand at the dementors once again."Expecto Patronum !"he shouted.

A silvery blob exploded from his sceptre and went after the dementors. Albus stood shocked for a few second gear. He had sort of done a Patronus appeal !

"Bloody hell,"John Lackland whispered.

"Expecto Patronum !"someone shouted from the distance.

Albus looked up and saw Lubar running at them with his wand pointed at the dementors. A silvery squirrel was floating ahead of him and the dementors scattered as it reached them.

Albus 's bleary brain immediately cleared and the happiness returned. He quickly stowed his wand in his gown before Lubar thought to demilitarize him.

"Leave him,"Lubar growled at John and Kaden, who were bent-grass to the solid ground trying to get matt to wake up.

"Dementors !"Washburn shouted sarcastically,"This was a bloody glorious place to come."

Lubar paid no attention to Washburn 's input. His eyes were focused on Albus and he was giving him a very rummy look. Albus took a spooky step back, but Lubar did not avert his gaze. Albus immediately closed his mind.

******

"ceramist, sir !"

Harry, who had been walking up highschool Street in Hogsmeade with Ginny, turned around and saw Lewster striding towards him. Harry stopped, hoping he had some skilful news.

"What is it, Lewster ?"Harry asked.

"Just talked to a few of the centaurs,"Lewster said,"They saw three wizards in the forest a few hours ago. They recognized one of them as Washburn."

"I 'd bet my finish Galleon the other two were the Willinsons,"Harry replied,"Did the centaurs know anything else ?"

"Just that Washburn and the others were looking for something. Apparently they were scouring the forest story for something,"Lewster answered.

Harry nodded. That did n't surprise him. The Resurrection Stone was someplace in the forest."Did you see anything ?"

"No,"Lewster shook his head,"And the Centaur are pretty sure they 've left."

"Very well,"Harry said,"See what else you can find out."

Lewster left and Harry turned to Ginny, who looked afraid.

"Harry, you do n't think that Washburn is with Lubar, do you ?"Ginny asked.

"There 's no doubt in my mind,"Harry answered,"It 's just a affair of finding them. hear, I 've got to go seek Dervish and Banges. I 've got this hunch about the shoes. Seems like the perfective tense place for Washburn to lease them."

Ginny nodded."I 'll go catch the end of the match. I wo n't mention anything to James II and Lily yet."

"Good,"Harry said,"I 'll be in touch soon."He kissed her lightly on the brow."We 're going to find him."

"I know,"Ginny replied softly,"stoppage safe."

Ginny turned around to walk back to the Hogwarts grounds while Harry picked up the pace and walked the forgetful distance to Dervish and Banges.

The construction looked utterly abandoned. The window were still boarded up, the grass overgrown around it. It certainly did n't appear like anyone was hiding inside, but Harry had to check.

Pulling out his wand, he crept cautiously to the threshold. He carefully pulled the boards off of it and quietly wrenched the door open up. Without lighting his wand, he walked inside.

The place had the smell of a recent fire in the fireplace. somebody had been there. However, there was not a sound from anywhere in the building. Harry lit his wand and saw that it was deserted.

After a thorough cheque of the entire construction, in which Harry found no living tool, he returned to the main room. The hearth was filled with nearly utterly embers and there was a small wad of Floo pulverisation spilled out onto the floor.

The Floo had been used recently. Harry bent down and muttered an incantation that would tell him where the close soul to use the hearth had Flooed from. He waited for the conjuration to work, his pith throb.

Soft red sess emitted from his wand, curling together to organize the words 'Ministry of Magic .'Harry breathed a suspiration of relief. He was getting somewhere. Without hardly a doubtfulness, Harry knew that Albus and the other male child had wound up in Dervish and Banges after going to the Ministry. The but question was, where had they gone after that ?

******

"How old are you, Potter ?"Lubar asked.

"Thirteen,"Albus replied, still a bit unquiet as to why Lubar was looking at him like that. It reminded him of how Balladanis had looked at him during the second dueling tournament.

"And they teach the Patronus appealingness to thirteen-year-olds at Hogwarts ?"Lubar replied.

"No,"Albus shook his head, although when he thought about it, Balladanis may have taught him and Malfoy Patronuses if he had n't gotten sacked."That was the first meter I 'd tried it."

"Very intriguing,"Lubar said as he turned to the former three men,"This lot did n't order me you were skilled at defensive magic."

"You never asked,"Jarrett muttered,"But is Potter 's aptitude for Patronuses really relevant to what we 're doing ?"

"It matters if they decide to try and hex us !"Lubar snapped,"I think it might be best if they 're all wandless."

Albus gulped and clenched his baton harder. He glanced at Matt, who was still unconscious. John did n't take his verge. Kaden was n't very near at dueling. It would be up to him, to Albus, if this came to a duel.

"The only when one who 's got any acquisition is Potter,"Jarrett said,"The other three are n't going to be difficult."

"amercement,"Lubar muttered,"We 'll get started, but I need to let the cat out of the bag to you three away from them first."

Jarrett nodded and the men walked a few yards away and began whispering too quietly for Albus to hear.

Albus bent down to where Matt had collapsed, wishing he knew a healing spell or two."lusterlessness, Matt,"he whispered,"aftermath up."

After a second or two, Matt 's oculus fluttered spread and he sat up."What happened ?"he asked, looking around confusedly.

"You passed out,"Albus told him,"When the dementors were here."

"But Albus cast a Patronus !"lavatory said excitedly.

"You what ?"Matt gaped at him.

"It was just silverish mist,"Albus told him,"Lubar 's actually the one who got rid of them."

"Probably just for his rice beer,"matt shuddered,"Did anyone else pass out ?"The other three boys shook their drumhead."chassis,"lustrelessness muttered.

"You need some umber or something,"Albus said,"Anyone got some ?"

"Might,"Kaden began fishing around in his pockets. He produced a chocolate anuran and handed it to Matt, who took it without saying a word.

"Listen,"Albus said,"Whatever it is that they want to do here, they 're doing it soon. Do you consider you can get up ?"

matte nodded and Albus helped him to his feet. Lubar and the others were walking towards them again. Albus slowly pulled his wand out of his gown and held it to his incline, hiding it partially behind his back.

Lubar conjured a great deal of woodwind instrument and set fire to it, illuminating himself, Washburn, the Willinsons, and the boy. Albus was now clearly able to see the twisted look on Lubar 's face.

"Are you mad ?"Jarrett seethed,"Fire 's going to attract care !"

Lubar laughed."fervour 's going to ensure that those vampire stay away and we 've got to see what we 're doing !"

Albus glanced towards where the vampires had been congregating. They were currently walking farther away from Albus and the others. Thinking back to Linda 's boggart, he remembered that vampires are destroyed by fire. Albus turned back to the men.

Jarrett was holding something out in his hand, but Albus could n't make out what it was. Jarrett, along with Quinton and Washburn, looked quite excited. Lubar looked mildly annoyed and impatient.

"Do you know what this is, Potter ?"Jarrett asked gleefully.

"No,"Albus said, trying not to sound too nervous.

"It 's the Resurrection Stone,"Jarrett answered.

Albus could hardly conceal his pant as he peered closer at Jarrett 's outstretched hand. There was a very small stone sitting in it. The Resurrection Stone. One of the Deathly Hallows. Jarrett had finally succeeded in getting one of the three objective he had been after for years. But how ?

"How ?"Albus asked, trying to sound confident.

"Ancient magic is a beautiful thing, ceramist,"Jarrett answered,"There are long forgotten go, patch that oeuvre very nicely with long forgotten magical object such as this endocarp. It was merely a issue of finding the correct spell, getting to the Forbidden Forest, and putting it to use. Quite simple now that I look back on it."

"Only because you did n't do any of the work,"Lubar muttered,"It was I who found the spell !"

"The early Hallows will try out to be sluttish to obtain with the supporter of this,"Jarrett went on, ignoring Lubar 's mutterings.

Albus did not like the sound of that. The Stone itself did one thing and that was bring back the hard liquor of people who had passed on. How would that help Jarrett get the other Hallows ?

The invisibility Cloak. Albus 's tum plummeted. It was still in his gown. He really hoped Jarrett would n't clear that.

"Another thing that I thought of !"Lubar seethed.

"You think this lot cares who did what ?"Jarrett laughed.

"Oh, just get on with it,"Washburn rolled his eyes.

Jarrett sidestepped past the fire and strode closer to Albus. Albus took a step back as his heart started beating faster. He had a very bad feeling about what Jarrett was going to do with that Stone.

"Ah, yes, thrower. You should be afraid,"Jarrett 's gaze swept over all four son,"You should all be afraid."

"Quit taunting them and just do it,"Washburn said impatiently.

"With this stone,"Jarrett said a bit louder,"I will bring back Godhead Voldemort."

******

Harry burst out of Dervish and Banges, not caring that he had blasted the door completely off its flexible joint as he did so. He had to find Walter. He had to receive Bruno Walter and then go to the Ministry. The fireplace did not establish signs that it had been used to Floo away from the abandoned shop class. That left either phantom or a Portkey, both of which would have left trace that he 'd want the Department of Magical expatriation for.

Harry rounded a corner as he ran towards Honeyduke 's and nearly ran headlong into a beldame. He stepped back and saw it was Ginny. She wore a foreign look of confusion and seismic disturbance, merge with mix fear.

"Ginny,"Harry said,"Sorry."

"Not a problem,"she said quickly,"Have you found anything ?"

"Yes,"Harry answered,"Is the match over ? How badly did we miss by ?"

"Only a one hundred points,"Ginny said,"But we might not have actually lost. Listen, did you know Australia 's Seeker is a vampire ?"

"Wait, what ?"Harry gaped at her, trying to wrap his head around that fact while still focusing his mind on Albus.

"I 'll explicate after we 've found Albus,"Ginny said.

"right field,"Harry agreed,"I 've got a atomic number 82. Someone was in Dervish and Banges. They Flooed there from the Ministry ; I 'm sure it was Al and the others. I 've got to find Walter and go to the Ministry. I 'm not surely where that will precede us, but I might not be back for a while."

"Just be careful,"Ginny said as she gave him a kiss,"And bring him back."

"I will,"Harry said as he kissed her back,"I 'll see you soon."

"Harry !"

Harry turned and saw Walter striding out of Honeyduke 's. With one last looking at at Ginny, Harry met Walter half-way.

"We 've got to get to the Ministry,"Harry said immediately, and explained about what he had found at Dervish and Banges and what Lewster had learned from the centaurs.

Walter nodded and the two men Disapparated on the spot. They reappeared a small piece later in a humble apparition bedchamber in the Ministry.

Passing the bewildered looking security safety device for the third time that day, Harry and Walter ran to the lifts. Neither of them said a Christian Bible as the lift clattered to the department of Magical Transportation.

The department was nearly deserted, salvage for one very bored looking witch sitting at a desk.

"Mr. Potter, Mr. Eckerton !"she exclaimed as she took her groundwork off the desk,"Something I can do for you ?"

"Yes,"Harry answered,"I need to live if anyone 's Disapparated from Dervish and Banges in Hogsmeade. Or used a Portkey from that like location. And if you 're capable to, I need to make out where they went."

"Of course, Mr. thrower, of course,"the Wiccan said as she got up. She disappeared into another room, shutting the door behind her.

Harry sighed and sat down on the cheeseparing chair. Walter sat down in the contiguous one, looking thoroughly miserable.

"We 'll find them,"Harry said quietly.

"I do n't doubt that,"Walter replied,"However, that is not the only thing I am interest about. The last time matt had an altercation with Ralph Lubar, he wound up in therapy for month afterwards."

Harry was not expecting that. He did not know much about therapy, except that mavin did not normally use it. Whatever had happened, it must hold been bad.

"Do you take care if I ask what happened ?"Harry asked, not sure if he was overstepping some sort of boundary.

Walter did not mouth for several bit."It 's ok,"Harry said,"You do n't hold to explain."

"I will,"Bruno Walter said quietly,"Shortly after lustrelessness was bitten, I became the Head of the section for the Regulation and control of Magical tool in Australia. cypher outside of the department knew about his condition, of course. Ralph Lubar was given my former emplacement of Head of the lycanthrope restraint Unit, and was quite envious that I was given the brain position. He could not get over the fact that I was given it, even when my own son had lycanthropy.

"It was a grudge he held against me for many year, until the day finally came when he cracked and let it drop away that flatness was a lycanthrope. A bit of legislation had been passed that required all places of shift be inspected by the Ministry. Lubar inspected matte 's and it failed on a technicality. Ministry centers were set up for werewolves to transubstantiate in, together. Matt was required by law to transform there since his good room did not passing play. I refused to birth him transform there. The papers were all over it. I lost my job. Lubar was appointed to the Head position.

"more than legislation was passed. A law that stated that Ministry officials could physically force werewolves into the transformation centers. On the day of the wide-cut Moon, Lubar Flooed into our house and took matte to the meat. By the time I figured out which nerve centre it was, the moon had risen. It was too late.

"lusterlessness spent calendar week in St. Mungo 's. By that time we were nearly ready to be active here. He was so traumatized, it took month for him to get over it. To be honest, I do n't think he 's fully over it.

"The only intellect Lubar did it was to try and get to me. That 's why he 's so sick and wind,"Bruno Walter finished as he put his head in his manus,"I swore I 'd never let him near mat again. Swore I 'd kill him if he went near Matt again.

Bruno Walter gave an odd variety of laugh."Listen to me, I 'm telling the Head of the Auror department that I 'd commit murder."

"Just so long as you do n't actually do it when we go keep open the boys,"Harry said, still processing what Walter had told him. It certainly explained a lot- why they were so reluctant to let matte out of their sight, why they were n't on the Floo Network.

One thing that Harry could evidence was that Walter blamed himself for everything that had happened. Honestly, Harry was n't surprised. If something like that had happened to James River, Albus, or Lily, he would 've blamed himself, too.

"That was n't your flaw,"Harry said quietly,"And this is n't either."

"If I had just Flooed ahead of the boys-"

"It would n't have mattered,"Harry interrupted,"And it 'll do no good to dwell on it now. It 's in the past."

"That 's exactly what my brother said when Matt was in St. Mungo 's,"Walter said wryly.

"Mr. Potter !"the witch came bustling out of the room she had gone into, brandishing a piece of parchment, which she handed to Harry.

Harry stood up as she handed them the parchment. His optic scanned the parchment. Portkeys. Four Portkeys had left Dervish and Banges a few light hours ago. That in itself did not scandalize Harry, especially compared to where the Portkeys had gone.

"Australia,"Harry read as he turned to Walter, who had visibly paled at the countersign,"They 're in Australia."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the awesome the great unwashed who have read and left such adorable reexamination !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
A/N : Like the previous chapters, this one is also split between Albus and Harry 's perspectives.


Never had Albus wished so intemperate that he could Apparate. Why did you sustain to be 17 to get your Apparition license anyway ? If he ever worked in the Department of Magical Department of Transportation, he would change that law. fantasm would 've enabled him to get out of Australia, away from Jarrett Willinson, who was trying to bring back God Almighty Voldemort with the Resurrection Stone.

Albus could not remember being More scared in his aliveness. This was far worse than when he had dueled Washburn on the Hogwarts grounds two geezerhood ago, far worse than when Quinton kidnapped Kaden the previous yr. Lord Voldemort was far scarier than Lubar, Washburn, and the Willinsons combined.

What would Voldemort feeling like when Jarrett brought him back ? Harry had said the endocarp could n't actually take people back to life history. Albus guessed he 'd be more like a ghost. But would he be capable to do magic, to perform the oath and jinx he did when he was live ?

Albus held his breathing time as he watched Jarrett turn the stone over in his work force. Albus had no idea how it worked, but judging by how placid all of the grownup were, Jarrett was trying to use it.

Over and over again Jarrett turned the stone. He did it for so farseeing that Albus had to let out his breath. The excited gleam on Jarrett 's face slowly dissipated until it was replaced by frustration.

"Why wo n't it work ?"Jarrett shouted,"Are you positively charged this is the right rock ?"

"Of course of instruction I am !"Lubar shouted as he grabbed the Stone,"The spell said it was !"

"Well, it 's not working now, is it ?"Jarrett mocked.

Albus breathed a sigh of alleviation. Either they had the wrong pit or for whatever reason, Voldemort could n't be brought back with it. Albus was hoping for the former.

Lubar turned the stone over in his hands. On the third turn, a strange sort of mist appeared in strawman of him. Albus 's heart sped up. It had worked.

The mist began to unclutter and a figure was standing in front of Lubar. The number was not Lord Voldemort, though. Albus had no idea who had been resurrected, but it certainly was not Voldemort. This individual was a womanhood, and a short one at that.

Washburn and the Willinsons were exchanging funny glances. Lubar, however, was staring directly at the figure, his face contorted with something Albus could only arrogate was sadness.

"M-mother ?"Lubar said as he stepped closer to the woman.

"You idiot !"Jarrett shouted,"That 's not Voldemort !"

"I know that !"Lubar snapped and the looked back to the woman, who was apparently his mother,"Mum."

"Ralphy,"the womanhood replied.

"I-it 's been so long,"Lubar whispered.

Albus turned to his friends, who were all staring in disarray at Lubar. Matt in particular was giving Lubar a very strange expression. Apparently the stone was the resurrection Isidor Feinstein Stone and it did indeed study, just not in the way Jarrett had been planning.

"Very long,"Lubar 's mother agreed,"But you 've done well. I 'm very proud of you, son."

Albus had to treat his lip to conceal his razz. What kind of mother could be lofty of what Lubar had done ?

"I 've tried,"Lubar said,"I swore I would after, after what happened."

"You have,"Lubar 's mum replied,"You 've done me proud."

"Oh for Merlin 's sake !"Jarrett shouted as he ran towards Lubar.

Lubar seemed to ingest forgotten that there were former people around. He jumped as Jarrett advanced and Jarrett grabbed the Stone out of his hand.

Lubar 's female parent began to wither as soon as Jarrett took the stone. Running towards her, Lubar held out his script trying to keep her there.

"No !"he shouted,"Mum !"

Mere seconds after Lubar 's mother completely disappeared, Lubar had his wand out and was holding it up at Jarrett. Jarrett had taken out his own wand, but neither man was hurling jinxes. Washburn and Quinton had taken a few steps back.

"You arse !"Lubar shouted,"That was my female parent !"

"I know !"Jarrett replied,"That 's why I did it ! We 're trying to bring back Voldemort here, not your messed up mum !"

"Do not insult my mother,"Lubar seethed and flicked his wand.

Jarrett fell to the ground, completely unable to move. Lubar stood over him with his wand directed at his chest.

"My mother was a endearing person,"Lubar growled,"You 're nauseous to be speaking ill of the perfectly like that."

Albus did n't really think Lubar should be talking about who is nauseated and who is n't. Nor did he think his mother was particularly lovely. Never before had Albus thought he 'd agree with Jarrett Willinson on anything, but when it came to Lubar 's female parent, he did.

"Better they hex each other than us, right ?"John muttered.

"Good point,"Albus replied.

"Can we delight just get back to bringing back Voldemort ?"Washburn drawled loudly,"I was under the impression that that 's what we were here for, not to affront each former 's mothers."

Lubar turned his verge on Washburn."Have you anything to say about my mother ? Well, do you ?"

Washburn hastily pulled out his own baton."Er, no, she seemed quite lovely."

"Good,"Lubar said manically,"Keep it that way, or you 'll end up like him."Lubar gestured to Jarrett, who was still laying paralyzed on the reason, his eyes darting about nervously.

******

"Australia,"Walter said weakly,"Bloody hell."

"I 'll necessitate you to replicate that Portkey,"Harry said to the witch, who nodded and left the room again.

"Walter,"Harry began,"I am nearly one hundred percent sure that Jarrett and Quinton Willinson, as well as Jameson Washburn are working with Lubar. I am nearly positive that they are with the male child in Australia."

"rightfield,"Walter agreed,"The grounds surely points that way."

"There is something about that investigation that hardly anyone in the Ministry knows,"Harry lowered his voice,"Nearly a class ago, after Quinton was sent to Azkaban, the Ministry decided that the Auror Department needed some avail with capturing the former two. The Minister hired a Presuler."

Bruno Walter let out a low whistle and then recognition dawned on his face."wait, you do n't mean-"

"Aplysia Balladanis,"Harry said quietly,"Yes, he was the Presuler the Ministry hired. Stationed at Hogwarts under the pretense of teaching defence Against the Dark Arts."

"Bad idea on the Minister 's part,"Walter muttered.

"It was my estimation to station him at Hogwarts,"Harry replied,"But I did not fuck that he would be such an awful teacher."

"I wo n't hold it against you,"Bruno Walter said.

"I appreciate that,"Harry said,"However, since Balladanis is a role of this investigating, I have to reach him and he will have to go with us to Australia. I understand that you have had your differences, but-"

"If he helps to find Matt, I will forgive him for everything he 's done,"Bruno Walter interrupted.

"Here you are, Mr. Potter, Mr. Eckerton,"the witch returned holding a ill-shapen plastic container, which she handed to Harry."If I can be of anymore assistance, let me know."

"That 's it for now,"Harry said as he took the container,"Thanks."

******

Albus stood freeze down as the four men dueled each other. completely unsure of what to do, yet very happy that they seemed to throw momentarily forgotten about the male child, Albus just stood there watching. Matt, john, and Kaden did the same, although John looked Sir Thomas More than a bit worried, virtually belike due to his want of a wand.

Washburn had attempted to take the Stone from Lubar, who had taken it back from Jarrett, shortly after Lubar had stunned Jarrett. Apparently Lubar did not rent kindly to this and hexed Washburn. In the intend clock time, the Stunner had worn off Jarrett and he attempted to hex Lubar.

All four men were running around, throwing whammy at each other while dodging the fire. Albus was kind of hoping one of them would trip and burn their arms or something. Or even better, maybe one or more than of them would drop their sceptre into the fire.

Washburn and the Willinsons were definitely uncollectible for wear. All three of them were sporting hurt. Both Willinsons were limping and Washburn 's left arm was being held at an odd Angle.

Lubar seemed fine and even though it appeared that the other three were siding against him, he was coming off better. Albus had to admit that he was very skilled at dueling.

Lubar shot a jet of red brightness level at Washburn, who went flying over the firing and landed with a sickening thud in front of the boys. He did not strike. Albus looked down and saw a lowly Harlan Fiske Stone side by side to Washburn 's question. He bent and picked it up. It was the Resurrection Stone.

Albus stood up and jumped back. Lubar, Jarrett, and Quinton had all advanced towards him. Three wand were pointed at his chest, being held by three citizenry with maniac gleams in their eyes.

Albus gulped and held up his own sceptre, his arm shakiness slightly. Matt and Kaden had done the Saame. trick tried to hide behind Matt, but was stillborn since he was a soundly fountainhead taller than him.

"Hand it over, potter,"Lubar growled.

With a defiant look at Lubar, Albus hastily shoved the Stone into the pocket of his robe and held his wand up eminent.

******

"Balladanis."

"Eckerton."

Harry watched as the two men stared at each former. Balladanis had Flooed to the Ministry shortly after receiving Harry 's Patronus. Harry had filled him in on what was going on, but the man had n't taken his eyes off of Walter the intact clip.

"We have n't got clip for this,"Harry muttered and held out the credit card container,"Let 's just go."

Walter agreed immediately and laid his mitt on the Portkey. Balladanis did so as well, with a little hesitation.

With a familiar saccade behind his naval, Harry disappeared from the Ministry. The Portkey trip was a bit retentive than ones Harry was used to, but it did n't surprise him since he knew they were going to Australia.

Harry landed softly on his substructure and held out his verge as he adjusted to the surroundings. It was pitch black and after he lit his wand, Harry knew they were in the midriff of a forest.

The woodland was disappointingly tranquility. The only sound were those of beast and the casual rustling of Tree, brought about by the hint. Not a unity sound caused Harry to believe that there were hoi polloi about, let alone his son.

"feast out and search,"Harry announced. The place may seem deserted, but Albus and the others had been there at some period. They had Portkeyed there.

None of the wizards said a word as they combed the area. Harry left no stone unturned as he looked for the smallest tracing of evidence of where his son had gone. If only it was n't Night. baton did n't provide nearly enough light.

There seemed to be not a trace of anything that showed anyone had been in that area of the timberland, let alone where they had gone afterwards. Ralph Lubar was well at this, that was for sure. Harry swore as he returned to the like shoes he had started from.

Walter returned a few minutes later, looking even more anxious than he did before."Nothing,"he muttered,"Not a ripped piece of cloak or a I Knut. They did n't stay here long."

Harry groaned and scuffed the ground with his brake shoe. He and Walter stood quietly as they waited for Balladanis to return.

Balladanis came running towards Harry holding a pocket-sized metal instrument in his script and an strange kind of worked up smirk on his face. He skidded to a halt in front of Harry, holding out the instrument. Harry recognized it as an Apparition detector. They were quite rare. The British Ministry only owned one, for the entire Ministry.

"They 've Disapparated,"Balladanis said hurriedly.

"Obviously,"Walter muttered,"Any idea where ?"

"A universal idea, yes,"Balladanis replied, ignoring Walter 's sarcastic tone,"They 're on the outback."

"The outback ?"Walter gasped,"Dammit, there 's dementors out there !"

"I am aware,"Balladanis said.

"Let 's go, then,"Harry said, placing one of his script on the metal musical instrument. It would be able to maneuver them to the relative area they needed to go.

Walter put his hired hand on the instrument as well and with an exceptionally tatty shot, all three men Disapparated.

They landed on terrain that was very unfamiliar to Harry. The basis was dusty and sandlike and there was hardly any plant life in sight. In the space there were marvelous mountains and cloaked frame floated above them. Harry suppressed a shudder and gripped his sceptre tighter. Dementors.

What looked like a holloa bonfire blazed in the distance. Harry glanced at it suspiciously and then looked back to Walter and Balladanis, both of whom were Thomas More intimate with the area.

"Only lamia and dementors ever speculation out here,"Balladanis said quietly,"Neither of whom would set a fire."

"Let 's go, then,"Harry said and began to conduce the small group towards the flickering luminance in the distance.

******

"Hand it over, thrower,"Lubar repeated.

Albus gulped and tried to hold up his wand more stabilize. His verge arm was shaking uncontrollably and Albus did n't seem to be capable to moderate it steady. His pith was thumping hard in his breast. Albus was trusted everyone was able to hear it. However, he did not desire to move over up the Harlan F. Stone. That was one thing he was sure of. The only way Lubar would be getting it is if he killed Albus first. Which actually, was n't something Albus would put past him.

"Maybe you should just give it to him,"John whispered,"I mean, it did n't bring to get Voldemort back."

"No,"Albus seethed, surprised that John the Divine had suggested it. He probably would n't experience if he still had his wand.

"Do you really want to sustain to duel me, ceramist ?"Lubar stepped a bit closer,"There 's three of us and four of you, one of which does n't have a wand. Not good odds, if you ask me."

"And do you realize that those two are horrible duellist ?"Albus replied.

"I have noticed,"Lubar smirked,"But they 're fully qualified ; you are not. I 'm going to get that Harlan F. Stone, one way or another."

Lubar flicked his wand and sent a jet of orange Light Within at Albus. Albus jumped back and threw up a shield appeal, concentrating on making it big enough to shield him and his Quaker. It worked and the orange light bounced harmlessly off the shield and hit the ground.

"stoppage behind me, John,"Albus muttered,"Matt and Kaden, spread out and hit them with whatever turn you know."

Albus concentrated on keeping his carapace up while casting former trance, like he had done in Balladanis 's dueling deterrent example. So far it was working, but Albus never managed to keep the shield up very long.

Lubar was momentarily stunned when he saw Albus 's shield, but he quickly recovered and began sending hex after hex, nonverbally, at Albus and privy. Concentrating hard, Albus sent a Stunner at Lubar, but he flicked his scepter and it shot off into the space, hitting one of the lone George H.W. Bush, which promptly caught fire.

Albus chanced a glance at Matt and Kaden. Matt was dueling with Jarrett and it looked like they were pretty equally matched, which was variety of pathetic as far as Jarrett was concerned. It made Albus feel better though. Quinton and Kaden just seemed to be sending Expelliarmus charms at each early and missing every time.

The shield emitting from Albus 's wand faltered and faded a bit. Albus renewed his assiduity, but the cuticle was still weaker than it had been before. There was no way he 'd be able to commit any spells through the shield now.

"Your shield is weakening, Potter,"Lubar smirked as he sent another Stunner at Albus, which shook the shell.

"pigeon hawk !"Quinton shouted to the right of them. He was hopping on one foot and Kaden was laughing hysterically. Albus grinned. Kaden had actually managed to do some kind of hex, although Albus was n't sure what one it was.

Lubar turned to Quinton and flicked his wand at Kaden. Kaden promptly froze and fell to the ground. Albus gasped and his carapace disappeared.

"Albus !"John shouted.

Albus turned back to Lubar, but did n't get the carapace back up before Lubar shot a hex at John, who fell to the solid ground like Kaden had.

"Would n't it be easier just to generate me the Stone ?"Lubar asked as he sent a stunner at Albus.

Albus deflected it."Not really."

Jarrett and flatness were still dueling. Both were sporting a few injuries, but nothing too serious. Neither seemed to make noticed that John and Kaden were Stunned.

Albus managed to hit Lubar with a stumble jinx, which gave him a few seconds to fascinate his breathing space while Lubar righted himself. Unfortunately this only angered him and he was now sporting a gash across his leave cheek.

"Expelliarmus !"Lubar shouted.

Albus jumped to the side and the turn hit a nearby rock. Lubar resumed his nonverbal spells and Albus continued deflecting them and dodging them, too exhausted to try and hit Lubar with any former jinxes.

"You ca n't keep dodging them forever, ceramicist !"Lubar grinned manically.

"scout me,"Albus said defiantly.

Albus of course knew that Lubar was right. The odds had not really changed. lavatory and Kaden were both out of the combat and while St. John the Apostle was easily the best duellist after Albus, his absence did not put Albus greatly behind. Washburn was out as well and both Willinsons were injured. Quinton was currently on his genu panting, not in any shape to persist in dueling. Matt was holding his own against Jarrett, something Albus was both amazed and revel by.

No, Albus was not trying to overcome Lubar. He knew that would n't be possible. Albus was merely biding for fourth dimension. He tried to figure out how long they 'd been gone as he dodged tour. It must suffer been at least three or four time of day, although the dark Australian sky had not changed a bit. Albus wished the moon had been out so he could receive monitored its trip across the sky.

How long would it read his dad to find out them ? prospicient than formula, Albus thought. They were in the middle of a foreign body politic, nowhere near anyplace Harry would be looking.

"I 'm getting annoyed, Potter, and you do n't want to see me when I 'm annoyed !"Lubar shouted, sending another jet of red light at Albus.

Before Albus even had time to record what sort of hex it was, Matt gave a shriek of pain to Albus 's rightfield and collapsed to the ground. Jarrett wasted no sentence and pointed his scepter at Albus.

Albus took a fraction of a second to digest the fact that he was now utterly alone, facing two fully big wizards. The two wizards shot very jet-propelled plane of blue light at Albus and he managed to pull up a feeble shield.

The force play hit him like a dozen Bludgers to the stomach. He lost his footing and landed flavorless on his back, his top dog hitting a particularly sharp rock.

"I told you not to struggle, Potter,"Lubar sneered as he loomed over Albus.

"You 're not getting the Stone,"Albus said, forcing away the dizziness. He reached into his robes and pulled out the Stone.

"I disagree,"Lubar said as he made to take hold of the Stone.

With all the force Albus could muster, he threw the Stone as far as he could to the rightfield. In the iniquity, it disappeared in a split up instant and Albus did n't even listen it land.

"No !"Lubar shouted,"You 'll pay for that !"

"Wands where I can see them !"someone shouted from behind Lubar.

Lubar and Jarrett whipped around as fast as they could. Albus lifted his top dog slightly and caught a glimpse of his dad, along with a few former wizards. He breathed a sigh of relief. They were saved.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus managed to sit up right before the hex started flying. Realizing that he dropped his wand when Lubar and Jarrett hexed him, he groped about for it on the ground. Not finding it, he crawled behind a nearby George Herbert Walker Bush and watched.

Jarrett did n't stick around long. He sent one pitiable Stunner at Harry, who easily deflected it, and disappeared on the spot. Harry immediately disarmed Lubar before he could do the Lapplander.

Once Lubar was defenseless, Albus left the rubber of the President George W. Bush and shakily stood up. He reached the flack and was able to see who the early two wizards next to Harry were. What he saw made him dizzy with shock all over again.

The shorter of the two was matte 's dad. He was staring stony faced at Lubar. Albus had never seen anyone glare at anyone else with such hatred and loathing as Matt 's dad glared at Lubar. And that included when his Uncle Ron talked about the Malfoys, or his mum when soul mentioned Vernon and Petunia Dursley.

It was the other hotshot that nearly caused Albus to pass out in shock. He was none other than professor Balladanis. What in the public figure of Merlin was he doing there ? It looked like he was actually with Harry and Matt 's dad. But why ? Did n't lusterlessness 's dad hatred Balladanis ?

"Eckerton, what a pleasant surprise,"Lubar smirked.

"Lubar, if we were n't in the presence of an Auror and a Presuler I 'd rip you limb from limb, Muggle style,"Mr. Eckerton growled.

Albus was slightly stunned by Mr. Eckerton 's option of words, but remembering what Matt had told him at the beginning of the year, all surprisal left him.

"Lucky for me thrower and Balladanis are here, then,"Lubar replied and snatched Washburn 's wand off the ground.

Harry, Mr. Eckerton, and Balladanis all sent different spells at Lubar at the same meter, but it was too late. He was already gone. Mr. Eckerton swore loudly.

"Two ai n't bad,"Balladanis muttered as he gestured to Washburn and Quinton, the latter of whom was still conscious but not completely aware of his surroundings.

"That 's the glaring difference between you and I,"Mr. Eckerton muttered as he moved swiftly past times Quinton and Washburn to reach Matt.

"Dad !"Albus shouted.

Harry looked up from Kaden 's unconscious form and raced towards Albus. Albus threw his arms around his dad and the two of them hugged each former tightly.

"Al, thank Falco columbarius,"Harry said.

"Dad, what 's Balladanis doing here ?"Albus asked immediately,"And Lubar, what 's going to happen to him ? And Willinson ?"

"I 'll explicate it all once we get you back to Hogwarts,"Harry assured him.

Balladanis had a firm detainment on both Washburn and Quinton and was fiddling with a give out plastic cup. A few indorsement later, all three of them disappeared.

Harry turned to Mr. Eckerton, who was standing up with lusterlessness in his arms."Can you shoot John, too ? I 'll get Kaden and Al will come with me."

Mr. Eckerton nodded and grabbed handle of John 's arm before pulling his own go bad plastic cup out of his pocket. They disappeared.

Harry pulled Kaden up and took Albus 's arm. Albus was still thoroughly garbled, but did not receive sentence to ask his dad anymore questions before feeling the familiar jerk behind his naval that signified he was traveling by Portkey.

Albus landed with a thud in the middle of the infirmary Wing. The question of how they managed to Portkey inside the Hogwarts grounds was the least pressure interrogation on his mind.

Looking around, Albus saw that the others had arrived as well. Mr. Eckerton was laying both mat and John on the nearest beds while dame Pomfrey was shouting and gathering potions.

"flavour at the state of matter of them !"the nurse exclaimed,"Always this lot, too ! You 're a bad influence on them, Harry, I swear !"

Harry looked slightly sheepish as he set Kaden down on the bed next to matte 's and then turned to Albus.

"I 've got to verbalise with Professor Kendrick and go to the Ministry-"he began.

"But Dad !"Albus interrupted,"What was Balladanis doing there ?"

"I promise I 'll tell you all of that and more,"Harry replied,"But I need to recount everyone you and the others are ok. When I get back, I 'm going to postulate you to recount me everything that happened."

"But-"

"No buts !"Madam Pomfrey cut in,"Bed, Albus, bed ! You need rest !"

Albus, who had barely registered the fact that his head was bleeding and he was still quite dizzy, felt that the last thing he needed was rest. He needed to sleep together what was going on.

"I 'll excuse once you 've gotten some nap,"Harry assured him.

Albus muttered under his breather and got into bed. Once lady Pomfrey had given him a Sleeping potation, Harry left, leaving Albus to unsuccessfully try to fight off the eternal sleep he knew was coming.

******

The ward was quiet when Albus woke up. It was completely non-white outside, although Albus did n't have the fragile hint as to what day it was. lavatory, Matt, and Kaden were either still unconscious or sound asleep. Albus was betting on the latter since brothel keeper Pomfrey was no where to be seen.

Mr. Eckerton was still there and he had been joined by his wife. Both of them were nodding off in chairs next to Matt 's bed. It did n't look like Mr. Eckerton had even left. He was wearing the like Ministry robe he had been wearing before.

Albus sat up and put his hand to his head. There was a patch on the spine of it. Another bandage was wrapped around his right arm, although he could n't echo when he had injured it. Besides that, he just felt exhausted.

The door to the cellblock opened, letting in a belittled flood lamp of light from the corridor. A figure stepped inside and began walking towards Albus 's bed.

"Hey, Al,"they said.

"Dad,"Albus replied, recognizing his don,"Are you going to severalise me about Balladanis now ?"

"Yes,"Harry chuckled,"Perhaps we ought to go to the elbow room of Requirement."

Albus shook his head, remembering something he had been debating for the past year. He had waited long enough. It was time.

"No,"Albus said,"I know someplace better."

Without saying a word, Albus got out of bed and guide his dad out the doorway and up to the fifth floor corridor. Harry did not ask a single dubiousness as Albus pulled the arm down on the appropriate knight and turned to present the opposite wall.

Albus located the paw print and touched his hand to them, turning it into a doorknob. He opened the doorway and stepped inside. Harry followed, letting out a gasp as he did.

"Remember that map from lowest year ?"Albus asked as he shut the door.

Harry nodded, apparently at a exit for words.

"There was more to it. statement on how to get into this room. It was theirs, the piranha'. Their mystical common room,"Albus said quietly.

Harry did n't respond. Instead he walked slowly around the way. Albus stood near the door and waited. He was n't sure how long he stood there, watching as his dad investigated the elbow room that had once belonged to his grandfather.

"This,"Harry began,"This is just incredible, Al. How long have you known about it ?"

"About a year,"Albus said quietly.

"And you spend metre here ?"Harry asked.

"Probably more than we do in the common room,"Albus answered.

"Then it is the utter place to blab,"Harry said as he sat down on one of the couches.

Albus sat down next to him."So why was Balladanis there ?"

"I 'll secern you that,"Harry said,"But outset I want you to explicate to me what happened."

Albus took a deep breath and told his dad everything. Starting with when they saw Lubar in the palace and ending with throwing the Resurrection Stone into the Outback. He explained how they had first gone to a wood in Australia, how they had Portkeyed to the Outback, the dementors, the almost Patronus he had managed to make, the duel, the fact that the Resurrection of Christ gem did n't work on to land Voldemort back.

"Why did n't it work ?"Albus asked,"I mean, I 'm glad it did n't, but why ?"

Harry thought for a few minutes and then looked at Albus."There are a few reason that might explain it. The Resurrection of Christ Stone brings back people we love, but it does not play them back completely. It 's almost as if their soul is coming back."

"Like a wraith ?"

"Not exactly,"Harry said,"But similar. It 's potential that since Voldemort split his soulfulness so many metre, he ca n't be brought back with the Oliver Stone. The gem may need the someone to be intact to work."

Albus nodded."That makes sense."

"It could also be that only loved ones can be brought back with the Stone. Washburn and the Willinsons did not love Voldemort ; they did not do it him. They wanted to lend him back for their own order of business,"Harry explained.

"Is there any way to find out which it is ?"Albus asked.

"No, I do n't cogitate so,"Harry said,"Especially now that the Stone is once again gone. Which is something I 'm very grateful that you did."

"Well, I figured you left it out in the Forbidden Forest for a reason,"Albus shrugged.

"Yes, yes I did,"Harry replied,"I think it dear if nobody had that Stone."

Albus nodded."Yeah, that makes sense. But what was Balladanis doing there ?"

Harry laughed."You 're not going to let that go, are you ?"

"Nope, you said you 'd state me,"Albus said.

"I will,"Harry replied,"Albus, do you know what a Presuler is ?"

"Yes,"Albus nodded,"And I know that Balladanis is one."

"You do ?"Harry looked impressed.

"He told me during one of those dueling moral he gave me,"Albus explained.

"fountainhead, that makes my account easier,"Harry said,"A little over a year ago, shortly after Quinton kidnapped Kaden, the Ministry decided to hire a Presuler to help chance Washburn and Jarrett Willinson."

"Seriously ?"Albus gaped at him.

"Yes,"Harry muttered,"The parson believed the Aurors needed some help."

Albus thought he heard bit of disdain in his dad 's voice.

"When I realized that Washburn and the Willinsons were most probable working with Ralph Lubar, I had to contact Balladanis and let him know. He came with us, and I have to admit that he was very helpful. We would not stimulate found you as fast if he was n't there,"Harry explained.

"But why was he teaching here ?"Albus asked.

"The Minister, Professor Kendrick, and I believed it would be proficient strategy to have him stationed at Hogwarts, where we all believed Washburn and the Willinsons would hark back to. Balladanis agreed,"Harry said,"Of course, none of us realized that Balladanis would not be able to handle teaching.

"This is all quite secretive, Al. I 'd opt you did n't tell anyone. I will be telling lusterlessness, John, and Kaden, because I feel they have the right wing to live, but I do n't want anyone else knowing about it."

"What about Rose and Amanda ?"Albus asked.

"I suppose I 'll state them as well, otherwise Kaden is sure to differentiate them,"Harry said.

"What 's going to happen to Lubar ?"Albus asked,"Is Balladanis going to be after him now ?"

"No,"Harry shook his head,"That 's going to be tricky position. Lubar is n't a British citizen. We ca n't do a thing while he 's in Commonwealth of Australia. It 's up to the Australian Ministry to either put him on visitation or devote him to us to put on trial. And since he 's one of their official, we 're not sure they 'll do either."

"But that 's not fair !"Albus stood up angrily,"Look what he did ! face what he 's done !"

"I know,"Harry sighed,"I 'd care zippo Thomas More than to give him a life-long stint in Azkaban, but unfortunately the laws do n't form that way."

"He and Balladanis get along anyway,"Albus said,"Balladanis probably would n't require to go after him."

"I do n't know about that,"Harry said,"Balladanis likes people to pay for what they 've done. However, being a Presuler and having no Ministry association, he does not have to read a case if he 's offered it."

"He told me I 'd ca-ca a proficient Presuler,"Albus said quietly as I sat back down,"Malfoy, too."

Harry sighed."What do you intend about that ?"

"I do n't do it,"Albus shrugged,"I mean, I like dueling, but I do n't really require to adjudicate what I want to do right now."

"You do n't bear to,"Harry replied,"And I do n't want to secernate you what to do, but I am going to say you something.

"Being a Presuler is a laborious job and often a lonely one. You have no coworkers. You work with various Ministries, but rarely get to know anyone. You travel a lot, which can form it difficult to birth a syndicate. It 's not an leisurely path to go down. Not one I 'd choose for myself."

Albus had n't even thought about that. He did n't imagine he 'd desire to rarely ever see his ally and family.

"There 's mass of other things you could do that would put your dueling science to use,"Harry told him,"And you 're only 13 so no need to decide now."

"I know, I do n't design to,"Albus replied.

"Well, you should probably get back to the Hospital Wing before gentlewoman Pomfrey notices you 're gone,"Harry smirked,"And thanks again for showing me the room."

Harry stood up and gave his son a hug. They left the room and walked back to the hospital Wing, both lost in their thoughts.

******

As it turned out, Madam Pomfrey had already noticed that Albus was missing. When he returned to the Hospital Wing with his dad, she was running about the Mary Augusta Arnold Ward shouting at the top of her lungs. Matt, John the Evangelist, and Kaden were all awake, staring at her.

"There you are !"she shrieked,"Where have you been ?"

"Er,"Albus began.

"I had to talk to him in private,"Harry answered for him.

"You should take in asked me first !"Madam Pomfrey exclaimed as she ushered Albus back into bed,"He needs relaxation !"

"I 'm his father,"Harry said incredulously.

"I do n't care if you 're the parson of magic !"Madam Pomfrey replied,"I 'm the one with the breast feeding level !"

"How long has she been shouting ?"Albus whispered to matt as he got back in bed.

"Fifteen instant or so,"mat answered.

gentlewoman Pomfrey returned to her desk and Harry strode over to where the Eckertons were sitting.

"Could I have a word in private ?"Harry asked Mr. Eckerton and then turned to dame Pomfrey."Do I call for your permission for that ?"he grinned.

"Very amusing,"Madam Pomfrey muttered.

Albus drifted back to log Z's a footling while later and when he next woke up it was light out and lady Pomfrey was bringing them all breakfast trays.

"Er, what day is it ?"Albus asked as Madam Pomfrey set his tray down.

"It 's Sunday, lamb, but it 's good afternoon,"Madam Pomfrey replied,"I figured you 'd prefer to have breakfast."

"Only Sunday ?"Albus asked. It felt like it had been far more than twenty-four hours since he had met up with Lubar before the Quidditch match.

"fourth dimension zone alteration are difficult to adjust to,"gentlewoman Pomfrey explained,"Commonwealth of Australia 's quite a few hours ahead of us."

Albus nodded and dug into his breakfast. Suddenly he was ravenous. When he thought about it, it must have been at least a day since he 'd eaten anything.

"I wonder how the Quidditch match went,"Kaden mused as he shoved pledge in his mouth.

Albus choked on his eggs. He 'd draw a blank about the match !"I doubt we won,"he sighed.

"Is your dad going to recount us why Balladanis was with him when he came to pull through us ?"Saint John asked,"I mean, he 's had plenty of time."

"He will,"Albus said,"He already told me. You lot were asleep."

The doors to the hospital Wing banged open and Rose and Amanda came running in. brothel keeper Pomfrey made a move to get up from her desk, but then sat back down, shaking her head.

"Tell us what happened !"pink wine demanded as she skidded to a hitch in front of Albus 's bed,"When did you get back ? Where did you go ?"

"Who won the Quidditch equal ?"Albus asked.

"Quidditch ? Quidditch ?"blush wine groaned,"I 'm not saying a word about Quidditch until the four of you tell me what in the name of Falco columbarius 's saggy left-"

"Miss Weasley !"Madam Pomfrey shouted,"If you do n't bring down your vocalism, you 'll hold to leave !"

"Sorry,"Rose turned back to Albus,"But you lot have got to differentiate us what happened !"

Albus launched into the integral taradiddle, which took the unspoilt part of a half hour to say. Neither rose wine or Amanda interrupted once during the wholly matter. Both of them looked absolutely shocked by the meter Albus concluded.

"But, but why was Balladanis there ?"Rose asked.

"My dad 's going to order you,"Albus said,"He 's already told me. He 'll probably tell the rest of you today."

"merlin, Albus,"pink wine sighed,"How often trouble can you get into ?"

"It 's not my fault,"Albus shrugged,"Now can you tell us about the match ?"

rosebush exchanged glance with Amanda, who sighed."It was quite the match, let me evidence you,"Amanda said.

"Nobody won, Al,"rose said.

"What ?"John interrupted,"How can nobody win ?"

"About forty-five proceedings into the match, Fred and heather mixture ran onto the pitch-"

"The match lasted that long ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Yes,"Rose said,"I do n't have a go at it why. Anyway, Fred and Heather ran right up to Ludo Bagman and started talking to him. nonentity could hear what they were saying. Then roadman blew his whistle and they went into a time-out.

"Bagman left the pitch and had a really long lecture with all the headmasters and captains. Then Kendrick announced that the equal was called off and told everyone to return to their common rooms.

"Everyone was really angry of course. Amanda and I were already worried because you lot had n't shown up yet. We thought something bad had happened and that was why they called it off."

"Why did they scream it off ?"John asked.

"I 'm getting to that,"rose said,"We got back up to Gryffindor and everyone was gathered around Fred and broom. Linda was n't there, and neither were any of her teammates who were Gryffindors.

"We pushed our way to the forepart of the crowd and heard what Fred and Heather were talking about. They were claiming that Australia had been cheating the hale time-"

"fountainhead, they were,"Matt muttered.

"I know,"rosebush agreed,"And apparently so did Fred and Heather. I 'm sure they figured it out just recently or else they would 've told someone sooner. They found out Linda 's a vampire and now the entire school knows."

"How did they figure it out ?"Albus asked, completely shocked. Linda hid her mystical quite well. Fred and Heather were sixth twelvemonth, they would n't have heard Balladanis 's vampire lecture."

"They 've been trying to figure it out all year,"rosiness explained,"And since they 're smart, they figured it out."

"But what about the mate ?"Albus asked.

"I think they 're going to delete the tournament, Albus,"rosebush said quietly.

"natural the tournament ?"Albus gasped,"natural the tournament ? ! They ca n't do that ! We 've spent the whole year on that tournament ! Do you have a go at it how much time I 've spent on the Quidditch sales pitch this year ? More fourth dimension than I 've spent in class, probably ! And now they 're going to cancel the bloody tournament ?"

"I do n't know, Al,"rose wine said shortly,"And if they do it 's not my fault."

"Sorry,"Albus mumbled,"It 's just a little aggravating."

"I know,"Rose replied.

"Where 's Linda ?"Matt asked.

"Gone,"Rose sighed,"Without a countersign. I have n't seen her or any of the Australians since the match. Killigan 's gone, too."

"Wow,"matte replied,"Ca n't say I blame her, though."

"I guess,"rose wine said,"Anyway, they 'll probably have an declaration about the tournament at dinner."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the awing people who have read and reviewed this ! There is only one more chapter left !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Harry returned to assure everyone else about Balladanis later on in the afternoon. gentlewoman Pomfrey flat out refused to let any of them leave the Hospital flank, so she agreed to lock in the door and go to her work while Harry explained. flatness 's dad was there as well.

Harry told them everything he had told Albus, although he left out the piece about why it was not all that advisable to go a Presuler. Everyone was completely shocked to learn that Balladanis had been hired to help get Washburn and the Willinsons.

Unfortunately, Harry also brought word of Lubar. News that was not all that welcome.

"As of right now, he 's completely relieve and in the clear,"Harry sighed,"The Australian Ministry refuses to extradite him, and they wo n't prosecute him in Commonwealth of Australia either. To them, it 's like nil 's happened."

Albus noticed that Mr. Eckerton looked positively maddened with this. Harry looked quite raging as well, but it did not come close to how Mr. Eckerton looked.

"We 're not going to give up,"Harry said,"We 'll keep negotiating with them."

Mr. Eckerton had also apparently been told about the Hallows. When Harry had spoken with him the previous night, it had been about the Hallows. Albus remembered back to his outset twelvemonth, when Matt had told them about his dad 's Thomas Young adult aspiration of locating the Hallows. Harry must 've trusted him now.

Albus reached over to his bedside board, where Madam Pomfrey had placed the Invisibility Cloak the late night. He wordlessly handed it to Mr. Eckerton, who carefully took it with a facial expression of awe on his face.

"Merlin 's whiskers,"he muttered,"It 's the Cloak."

"That it is,"Harry said quietly.

"Unbelievable,"Mr. Eckerton whispered as he fingered it.

He spent a few minutes trying the Cloak on before handing it back to Albus."I can not believe I 've finally solved the guinea pig of the Hallows,"he said to Harry,"This is awesome. I would lie with to share the tale with my brother. Perhaps I could introduce you to him at the World Cup this summer."

Harry nodded."That would be fine. Perhaps I will eventually tell him as well."

******

Albus wanted null more than to be allowed out of the Hospital flank in time to go to dinner that Nox. He was sure professor Kendrick would stool some sort of promulgation about the tournament and he did not want to miss it.

After a full moon ten minutes of begging on his parting ( helped out by matte, John, and Kaden ), madam Pomfrey told him he was in no fit state to leave alone the ward. Albus thought this was ridiculous because he felt fine. So what if his arm was still bandaged and in a sling ? That should n't blockade him from eating dinner with the rest of the school.

Instead, Albus was forced to eat a quiet meal in the hospital wing and wait anxiously for Rose and Amanda to enjoin him what Kendrick said.

The miss showed up right after dinner party ended. Albus immediately asked them what Kendrick had said.

"tourney 's canceled,"Rose sighed as she sat down on the end of Albus 's bed,"The kids from New York are staying to finish out the year, but the tourney 's canceled. I expect it 'll be in the oracle tomorrow."

"Falco columbarius !"Albus shouted,"Why 'd they have to cancel it ? Could n't they just disqualify Australia ?"

"No,"rosebush shook her heading,"To do that Hogwarts would take to toy New York in another final."

"Why do n't they do that ?"bathroom asked.

"Too close to exams,"Rose shrugged,"It 'll mess up everyone 's studying."

"That 's stupid,"Albus fumed.

"If it makes you feel better, I 'm somewhat certainly Hogwarts would 've won if Australia had n't have been here,"pink wine pointed out,"And Kendrick gave one hundred sign compass point to everyone who was on the Quidditch and dueling teams."

"Yeah, well, all the mansion had people on the teams, so that does n't really facilitate,"Albus muttered.

"Well,"pink wine grinned,"I know one affair that 'll cheer you up."

"What ?"Albus asked, even though there was nothing that could cheer him up.

"There were Quidditch sentinel at that match,"rose told him,"And even though the match was disastrous, they did find someone they wanted to draft."

"Who ?"Albus asked, slightly intrigued.

"Georgia !"Rose exclaimed,"She 's been drafted to act for Kenmare Kestrals as soon as she graduates !"

"That 's brilliant !"Albus replied. Rose had been right, that did jolly along him up. There was no one he thought who belonged on a professional Quidditch team to a greater extent than Georgia.

"Yup, she 's their newest stockpile Keeper,"Rose said,"She says Uncle Percy 's not impressed. He wanted her to work at the Ministry. She does n't deal what he thinks, though."

"Uncle Walker Percy 's got passel of early Thomas Kyd to work on at the Ministry,"Albus shrugged. He could never see Sakartvelo working in government.

"Kenmare ?"John said incredulously.

"Yeah, seriously ?"mat grimaced.

"They 're nearly as bad as the cannon,"trick groaned.

"She 's just happy to be on a team,"rose wine shrugged,"She 's always supported Puddlemere, but she thinks if she 's on any team, she 'll be able to work her way up to a better one."

"Merlin, I hope so,"John shrugged.

"Is she the only one who got drafted ?"Albus asked.

"Only one I know for sure of,"Rose said,"I heard a rumour that Anna Reilly got taken on by the Balycastle Bats, but I do n't have it off for sure."

Albus nodded, feeling slightly better about the tournament. It was n't pointless now that he knew his cousin had been taken on by a pro Quidditch team because of it. However, that did n't use up all the disappointment away.

******

brothel keeper Pomfrey reluctantly let the boys leave the next day after breakfast. She did n't really have a pick since exams began that day. Albus felt perfectly OK and was quite happy to leave the place.

pink wine handed him a written matter of the Prophet as soon as he and the early boys reached the green room. Albus took it, happy that he had a few moment before his for the first time examination to read the article that was inevitably there.

Australian SCHOOL CHEATS- TOURNAMENT CANCELED

After a startling breakthrough made by two Hogwarts
students, the Quidditch and Dueling tourney
involving Hogwarts, the Adirondack Academy of
trick, and the Aboriginal Australian schooltime of Sorcery
has been canceled.

The tournament 's last Quidditch match was
interrupted this past Sabbatum by two Hogwarts
6th years, Fred Weasley and heather mixture Weasley,
both 17, who claimed that the Aboriginal Australian team
had been cheating throughout the full
tournament.

A few months ago, allegations were brought upon
the Aboriginal Australian team after their Seeker, Linda
Morales, 14, flew at an exceptionally flying speed.
An investigation found nothing. The tourney
continued.

Fred and Heather Weasley accused Linda team spirit
of being a lamia. lamia are outlawed
from playing on professional Quidditch team due
to the unfair reward they have.

The match was immediately stopped while all three
headmasters questioned the Weasleys and Morales.

Headmaster Addiar Killigan of the Aussie
School of black art admitted to allowing esprit de corps
to be the searcher of his team in order to win the
tourney. The Australian team was immediately
disqualified from the tournament.

Killigan, Morales, and the rest of the Aussie
participating in the tournament left Hogwarts former
on Sabbatum, declining to speak with any of our
reporters.

Tournament functionary as well as the other two
headmasters have decided to cancel the tourney,
and not declaring a winner.

'It is too bad that the tournament turned out
this way ,'Fabius Kendrick told newsperson, 'Perhaps
we can try it again in a few days .'

"Killigan is an cretin,"Albus said.

"Look at the succeeding article,"pink wine replied.

QUINTON WILLINSON BACK IN AZKABAN, JOINED BY WASHBURN

While the final Quidditch match was ending in catastrophe
at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and wizardry, Harry
ceramist 's heart child, Albus, 13, was dealing with his
own battle.

Albus Potter, as well as cousin Kaden Dursley, 12, and
friends Matthew Eckerton and St. John the Apostle Brickston, both 14,
were kidnapped by Quinton and Jarrett Willinson, and
Jameson Washburn. The three convicts were helped by
Ralph Lubar, Head of the department of the Regulation
and mastery of Magical Creatures in Australia.

The four Hogwarts bookman were taken to Commonwealth of Australia
where Harry Potter and Walter Eckerton found them.
It is indecipherable what the con were after, as well as
why Lubar was involved.

Quinton Willinson and Jameson Washburn were caught and
sent to Azkaban. Lubar and Jarrett Willinson escaped.
Aurors are currently looking for Willinson and the
Ministry is negotiating with the Aboriginal Australian Ministry
about what to do with Lubar.

All four male child have recovered from the trial by ordeal and are
currently taking their end of the year examinations
at Hogwarts. Harry potter has declined comment.

"Well, that 's not a very informatory article,"Albus said as he tossed the newspaper onto a nearby table.

"I do n't opine they can describe much,"Rose said,"The Australian Ministry may be asking them to keep quiet about Lubar in return for giving him some kind of punishment.

"It wo n't matter,"Matt said,"They 're not going to do anything to him."

Albus was forced to drive Lubar into the rachis of his judgment as exams began. They were all significantly operose than the old year 's had been, but he was sure he at least passed all of them.

There were short article in the seer about Lubar everyday, but they all said the Lapp thing. Australia refused to deliver him. Matt was not at all surprised by this, but it infuriated Albus to no end.

The week after exams was a foreign one for Albus. There was nothing left for them to do. No studying, no prep, no Quidditch. rosebush and Amanda went back to spending all their time with the boys, like it had been before Linda had arrived.

thing were dissimilar, though. Both Rose and Amanda were a lot quieter than they used to be. Albus was sure as shooting they missed Linda, and he had no estimation whether she had said sayonara to them, or even if she 'd had the prospect.

matt was lost in his own idea most of the clock time, rendering him quieter than ever. He often went entire evenings without saying two words to anyone, something that usually only happened around full-of-the-moon moons. However, the succeeding broad lunation was n't until after they left Hogwarts.

Albus was for sure this was because of what had happened in Commonwealth of Australia. He never talked about it, but Albus knew that getting kidnapped by Lubar again had scared the daylights out of him.

John and Kaden remained as boisterous as ever and did not seem to be fazed by what had happened in Commonwealth of Australia. They spent their week pulling pranks and playing dateless plot of Exploding shot that Albus occasionally joined in on.

Albus himself was quieter. His mind was racing with mentation of Lubar and Balladanis. None of the clause ever mentioned Balladanis, but he knew that was because Balladanis 's job had to stay a secret. He wished more than anything that Lubar would get thrown in prison, whether it was Azkaban or Commonwealth of Australia 's prison.

******

The caravan ride back to London was subdued, the only noise being John and Kaden 's Exploding snatch notice. Albus and mat both gazed out the windowpane, mesmerized by the passing play landscape.

"Linda sent me a letter of the alphabet last night,"rose said, breaking the silence.

Albus lifted his point up and looked at her."What about ?"

"She told us she was no-good, and wanted me to enjoin you that she was sorry about the tournament,"Rose told him,"She 's on the run with her mum now. They 're thinking of moving to a different country."

"To go to school ?"Albus asked.

"No,"rose wine shook her head,"She 's been through shoal a duo times already. She was n't even a scholar at the Aussie school. Killigan pretty much forced her into playing seeker for them. He 's a really nasty bloke. They have to get out now, though, because everyone knows."

"Where will they go ?"Albus asked, surprised that he was actually palpate sorry for Linda.

"No idea,"Rose shrugged,"She said she 'd owl me when they find out."

"This unscathed year has been so messed up,"John sighed,"I hope future year 's better."

"Me, too,"Matt agreed.

"We 've got the public Cup to look forward to, though,"Albus smiled.

"Oh, yeah !"John grinned,"Owl me as soon as you find out when we 're leaving for it."

"Definitely,"Albus said,"Your baby 's going, too. Lily told me she 'd invited her. Hugo 's not really glad about that."

"Neither am I,"lavatory muttered,"I do n't want Ashtyn going."

"wellspring, I 'd prefer Lily not go, but it 's the Cup ! Nothing can really destroy it,"Albus said.

"Good point,"privy agreed.

"Let me know when the Cup is,"Kaden said.

"Why ? So you can convince your parents to take you ?"Gospel According to John smirked.

"No,"Kaden laughed,"So I can hump when to take in you lot to my house. My dad said he 'd subscribe us camping."

"Excellent !"John grinned,"tenting like Muggles ?"

"Yep,"Kaden replied,"Living in collapsible shelter, no electricity, no conjuring trick either since we 're all underage."

"There is no way my parents will let me go,"flatness said quietly.

"Why not ?"Kaden asked.

"I went camping when I was five,"lustrelessness answered,"That was the time I got bitten."

"Oh,"Kaden looked a picayune taken aback,"Sorry."

"It 's ok,"Matt shrugged,"Just do n't go during a full moon lunar month. I do n't want any of you having to fall in me in the screaming shack future year."

"I 'll go,"Albus said. He 'd never been camping before, let alone camping like a Muggle. He did feel bad that Matt would n't get to go, but he kind of thought flatness would n't want to go anyway.

The end of the trip was spent arguing about Quidditch and Albus felt like things were sort of returning to pattern. It was almost courteous to hear John and matte arguing about the cannon again and Kaden arguing about football.

The caravan arrived in London and Albus found his parents waiting for him on the political program. After saying goodbye to his friends, Albus left the station with his family spirit that just maybe sprightliness would be pattern from then on. Well, maybe the summer would be at least be normal. Albus could n't get his Leslie Townes Hope up too high.


A/N : Hard to believe it 's finished ! Thanks to Dancer of Starlight for betaing and thanks to all of the awe-inspiring citizenry who have read and reviewed this ! You Guy are so lovely and amazing !

I am working on the fourth history but it 'll be a while before the first chapter is up. I 'm thinking I 'll update every former hebdomad at first, alternating weeks with Beyond the shadower. In the beggarly prison term, if you want something new to take, I suggest checking out Remember the shank, which is a collab I worked on survive yr and is now currently being updated. It 's all about the Chudley cannon and their downfall. It 's under the username The Golden Snitches and is also in my favorite tarradiddle so you can find it that way.