Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
Weasley Family Tree is in the Author 's Note at the bottom.


Molly Weasley did n't presume serve well dinner until after the Quidditch catch had been completed because even she did n't experience the ability to drag Weasleys away from Quidditch. Teddy secured a win for his team by practically stealing the Snitch out James 's clutch and then everyone was off their heather and sitting at the gravid crowd of tabular array in record time. After all, Quidditch was one of the best matter one could do to develop a big appetite. Albus was certainly quite hungry and in a very serious mood as he had been on teddy bear 's team.

Albus and Rose sat next to each other in the midriff of the group of tables and unfortunately Percy sat directly across from them. Early experience had taught them never to sit near Hotspur due to his habit of talking political relation during dinner party, something that even bored rose wine. The two of them looked at each former as Walker Percy sat down and Albus readied himself for political conversation rather than Quidditch talk.

"I 'm telling you,"Percy said to no one in particular as he served himself some Daucus carota sativa,"something 's going to happen. I guarantee it. It 's been too serenity in the Ministry lately. Personally I thought affair would get a bit riled up net year when Walter Eckerton took over for MacVicar, but I suppose the two of them had like horizon. More similar than I expected anyway ..."

parting it to Percy to try and determine something wrong with the Ministry when all was fine, Albus thought. He reached over Rose to snap up a steak and kidney pie and served a heaping dowery onto his plate.

"What do you guess, Harry ?"Percy turned to Albus 's dad, who happened to be sitting next to him."Any stirrings in the Auror department that I may not deliver heard about ?"

"Things are pretty calm, Harry Hotspur,"Harry replied.

"Of course they are. I would 've heard if they were n't,"Percy decided.

Albus was n't exactly for sure what his uncle Sir Henry Percy actually did at the Ministry. He knew it had something to do with the pastor, but his existent title was so long and complicated that Albus never bothered to remember it.

"Well, it 's an election yr,"Percy pointed out."Things never stay calm during election class. Party annunciation come first gear week of September and after that things will be chaotic around the Ministry. Loads of employment to do. Let me tell you, when I run for Minister-"

"Oh, here we go again !"Ron said loudly."When Sir Henry Percy runs for diplomatic minister. It 's never gon na happen, Perce. Honestly."

"I would vote for you, Percy,"Molly assured him."You would form a grand parson. But this dinner party is supposed to be about the Kid. King James ! And Ben and Cedric ! This is your O.W.L. year ! You three are going to do so wonderfully but you must calm down a bit and study."

"nan, really,"St. James muttered."We 're going to be hearing this from the teacher. Uncle Sir Henry Percy, why do n't you differentiate us more about your running for Minister ?"

"Well, as a issue of fact."Percy stood up."I have a rather charge up promulgation to make and I feel I must differentiate my family first, before the sleep of the Wizarding World."He paused, presumably for dramatic effect."I will be formally announcing on Monday, Sep second that I will be running for pastor for Apr 's election."

There was absolute silence for about five sec before a unanimous lot of things happened at once. Ron, St. George, and Charlie burst out laughing. Hermione raised her eyebrow as far as they could go. Ginny, Bill, and Chester Alan Arthur all shouted loudly"Seriously ? ! ”. Molly shook her head slightly and then jumped up from her chairman, running towards Percy and finally enveloping him in a large hug and kissing him squarely on the os frontale.

"Oh, Percy !"she exclaimed."I 'm so majestic of you ! You 've been talking about it for years and I think it 's high prison term you actually did it. I always wanted a son who was this successful !"

"Mum !"Ron groaned."It 's not like your other sons have n't done anything. I 'm an Auror for Merlin 's saki !"

"And you 're a fine good one, Ronald, but I ca n't ever see you being Minister. You just do n't ingest the ambition Percy does,"molly said as she patted him on the shoulder.

Gold was exchanging paw at the other end of the table. Cedric was grinning madly, so Albus assumed he had won some sorting of bet involving when Percy would run for parson. That bet must have been in the full treatment for years.

Albus was personally stunned. He of course of action had been on the receiving end of many a Percy ranting about what he 'd do when he ran for Minister, but he had always believed Percy would n't ever do it. If Albus was honest with himself, he did n't really desire Percy running. His family was renowned enough without having an actual minister of religion in it.

"Honestly, Mum, do you think he 's really going to win ?"Ron exclaimed."I mean, do n't get me unseasonable, Sir Henry Percy, I 'll vote for you, but what about the rest of the wizarding man ?"

"Walker Percy, do you really think you 're cut out for this ?"Harry asked skeptically.

"Why would n't I be ? I 've been involved with the Ministry for decades !"

"I think what Harry 's trying to say is that you 're all bark and no collation,"Bill pointed out.

"I am not !"Walker Percy shouted."And I would 've expected more support from my own family."

"We are supporting you,"Molly assured him.

"son,"Arthur warned."Percy 's right. If he wants to run for curate he can without any of us making it difficult for him. You do n't own to vote for him, but I wo n't have you arguing during dinner party. You 'll upset your mum."

Everyone resumed their behind but Albus doubted they stopped talking about Walker Percy running for rector. They just continued to do so in lower voices. For once, Albus was happy he had chosen a seat near Percy.

"Do you know who else is running ?"Hermione asked.

"Not sure,"Percy replied."Hartwell 's not running again, if that 's what you 're getting at. He 's had enough. But I 've got his support. After all, I am the Senior Undersecretary for the drafting and redaction of legal philosophy to the Minister."

So that 's what Percy 's rubric was, Albus thought. He had no musical theme if that was a positioning that had a lot of might or not, but apparently it was enough to encounter support for a Minister run.

"Hey, Dad,"Peach State shouted from a little way of life down the board."I figure this is as good a time as any to recite you that I 'm moving out tomorrow."

Percy choked on whatever he was eating."You 're what ?"

"Moving out. You know, leaving the nest. I 've got a flat with a booster closer to the lurch. It 'll be more convenient, for work."

"Work,"Sir Henry Percy muttered."If Quidditch can be considered work."

"Look, I know how these elections work. You 're going to want to make yourself look like a phratry man, so you 're not going to want to consider me your screwball daughter who only plays Quidditch and has no job. So you 'd meliorate start intellection of me as your girl who 's the Modern second-stringer steward for the Kenmare Kestrals. It 'll sound practiced to the press."

Walker Percy stared at her with his mouthpiece agape. He shook his head slightly and resumed eating, without another word to Georgia. Georgia looked smug, so Albus assumed she had won that little argument.

Albus turned to rose wine and grinned. GA certainly knew how to make Sir Henry Percy 's running for Minister workplace to her reward.

"pink wine, have you heard from Linda yet ?"Albus asked, deciding not to connect the eternal rest of his household in political conversation.

"Not yet."Rose shook her mind."Her mum might accept wanted her to wait a bit after they settled in Canada, though. Have you heard anything about what the Ministry 's doing about Lubar ?"

"If anything 's changed Dad 's being really quiet about it,"Albus answered.

"It 's so incorrectly, though, that he can completely get away with what he did,"rose muttered."It 's like I could go to French Republic, rob a bank, get back to England, and I 'd get away with it."

"You 're robbing a bank ?"James shouted.

"Of line not,"Rose replied."It 's none of your business."

Albus and rose wine did n't take a chance talking about Lubar for the remainder of the evening. trusted, the sleep of their fellowship do it about what had happened but neither of them wanted to talk over their theories with any of them.

The rest of the even was rather out of character for usual Weasley family dinners. All the former years'dinners had consisted of lecture of Hogwarts and the adult exclaiming how big everyone had gotten and how everyone was growing up. Usually whomever was starting Hogwarts for the first time would get a carnival bit of attention, but this year Angie, who was starting, seemed to be forgotten. Instead all of the tending was focused on Hotspur. The adults were talking political relation and Albus 's older cousins were placing stake on whether he 'd win or not.

Francis Edgar Stanley was the starting time to go away as he had to go back to Romania the stick to good morning. Charlie and Katherine had finished their year in Romania and had returned to England permanently the old month. Victoire and Teddy left shortly after that since they both had to work the next day.

Hotspur was still discussing campaign manoeuvre with Corrine, who was smiling and nodding the way Albus did when his cousin-german were small and he had to pretend he was interested in what they were saying, when Albus 's parents decided it was time to allow. For the first sentence in his sprightliness, he was actually happy to leave and get back to Grimmauld piazza. The before school dinner was supposed to be about everyone who was at Hogwarts, a meter to give birth fun all together before schooling started, and this time it had n't been that. It had been about Percy.
******


By some stroke of lot or miracle that had never descended upon the Potters before, James had packed his luggage compartment the night before they left for school. Albus was certainly that some form of apocalypse was going to go far soon because Percy running for Minister and the ceramicist arriving early for the Hogwarts Express were two issue that nobody ever thought would happen. Albus did n't question it, though. Instead he just used the opportunity to his advantage.

Kaden, who had met Albus at Platform 9 ¾ prior to going through the roadblock, was not early, so the Potters went through without him. rose and her family were already there of path, so Albus said a quickly bye to his parents before getting on the train to find pink wine. With any luck his supporter would n't be there yet and he could talk to go up alone. Usually there was zippo he would n't talk to his champion about, but the strange feeling he had had about his family was something he only wanted to talk to rose wine about.

Rose was alone in a compartment about halfway down the string, reading one of her new text. It was Arithmancy and Albus did n't experience the little idea what any of the symbol in it meant. He chose the seat side by side to her and waited for her to be done indication whatever it was she was deciphering.

"I 'm witnessing a miracle, apparently,"pink wine said after setting her book down.

"James I packed last Night,"Albus answered.

"Again, I 'm witnessing a miracle."She laughed."Your mum is prosperous if St. James packs earlier than five minutes before you leave."

"It 's definitely odd,"Albus agreed."Listen, do you get the spirit things are changing ?"

"Changing ? Like what 's happening with Willinson and Lubar and their lot ? Yeah, I think so. It 's been over three age, Al, and they still have n't gotten all of them in Azkaban at the same time. I know they 're really stupid when it comes to dueling but I think they 're smarter than anyone 's giving them credit for. Things are going to switch, Al. The world 's getting scarier,"rosebush said quietly.

Albus swallowed hard. That was in the back of his mind of form, but he had never voiced it before. Nor was it what he had set out to talk to Rose about.

"I guess,"Albus replied."But I was n't really getting at that. I was thinking about our family."

"Oh,"was all rose said. Both cousins sat quietly for a minute before she continued."I know what you mean. What was up with that dinner at grandma and grandad 's ? It was all Percy. O.W.L.s were mentioned once and no one said anything about Angie starting Hogwarts."

"I know. It was odd. It just seems like everything 's changing. There are less of us at Hogwarts now so I guess that 's what 's going to happen-"

"There 's still a lot of us here,"rose interrupted."And Eddie and the Twin have n't even started yet. Plus it 's not like we even talked about teddy, Victoire, Francis Edgar Stanley, and Georgia. We talked about Hotspur for Falco columbarius 's sake !"

"What do you recollect will happen if he wins ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't love. I do n't think things will change political-wise but I think it 's going to be really weird for Peach State and Bradley and Cedric. Even the twins will probably be effected. I mean, having your dad be the most important person in the wizarding populace has got to be stressful."

"Tell me about it,"Albus muttered."Can you imagine if my dad ran for government minister ?"

"Percy would n't stand a chance."

"Dad 'll never run, though,"Albus pointed out."I just think that thing are already different from terminal class. Everyone 's going to be focused on Uncle Percy 's campaign."

"Things never stay the Lapp, Al,"blush wine said.

"What 's not staying the same ?"John asked as he entered the compartment, followed by Kaden."I 'm hoping you 're talking about my Divination Saint Mark, rose wine, because my parents nearly murdered me this past summertime when they saw it."

"I think we 'll just let to deal with your murder, John, because that bull's eye is not getting any high-pitched,"rosebush replied.

"Seriously, what were you talking about ?"Kaden asked as he sat down across from Rose.

"nada,"Rose said quickly.

"I 'll assure you once Matt and Amanda get here,"Albus said, figuring he 'd tell them about Percy running for Minister.

"This is going to be the beneficial year ever !"Kaden said excitedly as he pulled a man of sheepskin out of his bag."Look, it 's my Hogsmeade permit slip !"

"Excellent,"John replied."Now I do n't have to buy your dungbombs for you."

"Do you really have to buy dungbombs this year ?"lusterlessness asked as he entered the compartment."They 're so nasty."

"Just for the Slytherin rough-cut way,"john assured him."Our goal is to figure out how to get a few in there."

"Not going to work,"Amanda said as she entered and sat down on the other side of Rose."You ca n't get into someone else 's common room unnoticed."

"That 's what Albus 's cloak is for,"Kaden said.

"Not if it 's going to smell like dungbomb after,"Albus said.

"Told you we should have just asked for his cloak without telling him what we were doing with it,"John told Kaden.

Kaden shrugged."All right, everyone 's here. Tell us what you and Rose were talking about before any of us got here."

"Fine."Albus took a deep breathing time."Well, my Uncle Hotspur 's running for Minister."

"Seriously ?"John replied.

"Cool !"Kaden exclaimed.

"Why ?"flatness asked.

"Is n't he the one who 's been talking about doing that for year ?"Amanda asked.

"Yes,"Albus answered."He 's seriously running, it 's not that aplomb, I 'm honestly not sure why, and yes he 's been talking about it for years."

"Why does n't your dad run ?"Kaden asked.

Albus and Rose both burst out laughing."Because that 's the final stage thing he 'd ever want to do. He would n't want anymore power than he 's already got. Whereas Walker Percy, all of my uncles have always said is kind of power hungry,"Albus replied.

"Do you live who he 's running against ?"Amanda asked.

"Have n't a cue,"Albus said."They 're supposed to be announcing the candidate on the second."

"What 's that got to do with everything changing ?"Kaden asked.

"It 's our family,"Rose said quietly."Uncle Percy is so focused on the election and it has n't even really started yet. GA 's got it all figured out. Percy 's going to hazard he 's completely happy with her Quidditch playacting just to take a crap himself seem like a crime syndicate man, which he 's really not. He 's always been focused on work."

"That 's stupid,"John the Divine said."Georgia 's not going to like that."

"She 's the one who brought it up,"pink wine pointed out.

"He 's correct, you know,"Amanda said.

"What do you mean, he 's right ?"Albus stared at her. She had a knowing smile splayed across her face.

"You, pink wine, and Matt are n't the only ones of us who have family line in politics,"Amanda said.

"But you 're a Muggle,"whoremaster replied.

"I never said the Ministry of Magic, Saint John. I meant the Muggle Ministry. My uncle 's the quality minister."

Albus continued to stare at her. Amanda was always rather tranquillise and rarely talked about her family. He always figured that was because she was so quiet and never guessed that it might be because her family was just as influential in the Muggle world as his was in the wizarding world.

"Michael Smythe, that 's my uncle. He 's my mum 's sidekick,"Amanda elaborated."Imagine my mum 's surprise when she told him that I was a enchantress only to come up out that he already knew about the wizarding world."

"So if Harry Hotspur wins ...,"Albus began, his voice trailing off.

"He 'll meet my Uncle Mike,"Amanda finished."But as I was saying, Georgia does have it all figured out. If Book gets out that Harry Hotspur and her rowed about her Quidditch playing, it 's going to come off wrongly in the mechanical press and misplace him vote. So, he 'll hold back it to himself and will be in the presence row of every single one of her equal, pretending to be a immense Kenmare Kestrals fan."

"Wow, that seems so wrong,"rosebush muttered.

"It 's politics from the other slope. The public wants people in tycoon to birth a certain image."

"Still, it 's like lying,"Rose went on."Just another reason I am not getting into politics."

"My cousin Leanne went a lilliputian wild at university her firstly year, our outset class at Hogwarts, and the Ministry hushed it all up. She was out partying and the paparazzi got a photo of her and put it on the cover of some rag, but that was the only one. I know she partied more, but it was all hushed up."

"But it 's not the likes of GA 's partying. She 's got Quidditch skills and is using them to score an honest keep,"pink wine pointed out.

"I 'm not saying that 's bad. I 'm just saying your uncle wo n't want the public to bang he 's not felicitous with her career choice so he 's going to earn himself attend like a commit father."

"See, everything 's changing."Albus sighed."Sometimes I just wish I had a normal family."

"It 's not all it 's cracked up to be,"John said. Kaden nodded.

"It 's dependable, Albus,"Matt said."Amanda 's completely right. It 's the unanimous reason why my dad got sacked. The public did n't like that I was a werewolf, which is office of why the Ministry hushed it up. When it got out, nobody wanted him in politics anymore."

Albus nodded, but did n't say anything. He never really thought about that before, but mat was right wing. Amanda was, too, but he never really put two and two together before mat mentioned that. And now the same thing was happening with his home. Hotspur was going to pretend and while that did n't really directly effect him, how long would it take before the populace did n't like the trope he and the rest period of his cousins were presenting ?


A/N : From now on, updates for this will occur on the beginning of every month and updates for Beyond the Shadow will happen on the 15th. That way they 'll be spread out. Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this !

Here 's the Weasley-Potter Family Tree !

Bill-Fleur
Victoire- 20
Gabriella- 18
Ben- 5th year

Charlie-Katherine ( witch )
Stanley- 19
Heather- 7th year
Mark- 6th year
Eddie- 8

Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Georgia- 18
Bradley- 6th class
Cedric- 5th year
Samantha & lindy hop ( twin ) - 9

George- Alicia Spinnet
Fred- 7th year
Angie- 1st class

Ron-Hermione
Rose- 4th yr
Hugo- 2nd year

Ginny-Harry
James- 5th yr
Albus- 4th year
Lily- 2nd class

*All in Gryffindor*


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was no quotation of political science or government minister throughout the remainder of the railroad train head trip. Amanda did n't say anything else about her uncle being the prime parson and how it had affected her family, but Albus was still really curious about it. How had she managed to keep that a arcanum for three years ? Judging by pink wine 's reaction, she did n't even live about it. Matt had n't even managed to hold back it a closed book that he was a werewolf for a yr. Granted, Albus and the others had figured it out, but still. Maybe Amanda was the safe secret keeper in their group.

The talk lightened considerably as they made their way to Hogwarts, soon turning to the familiar subject of Quidditch and then to fantasizing about the new defense teacher. toilet was hoping for someone who let them do whatever they wanted whereas Rose wanted someone who would actually instruct, and not teach like Balladanis had. Albus did n't really like, so long as the new teacher did n't care to harm his students, physically or emotionally.

As the train neared Hogsmeade station, Albus and his admirer changed into their robes and prepared to exit the train for the bumpy carriage ride up to the shoal. The journeying was now so routine that they did so with niggling chatter and transferred to the carriages with none of the flash of the previous two eld. They were fourth years now and Hogwarts was familiar dominion. As quaternary years, they were well on their way to being the older students of the school.

The Great Hall was filled with laughter and excitation as the educatee found their tail end at their house mesa. Albus and his protagonist quickly found butt together at the Gryffindor tabular array and all five glanced up to the staff tabular array to find the new aspect that would be their Defense Department teacher. However, instead of the one unfamiliar grimace they expected, there were two unfamiliar faces.

"Which one 's the Defense teacher ?"Kaden asked.

"Have n't the little,"Albus replied.

There were two new magician sitting at the board. One was deep in conversation with Professor Kendrick and the other was glancing around at the room, his middle never resting on the Saami thing or person for more than than a few s. The quondam was wearing what looked to be Ministry robe, which made Albus wonder if he was an Auror, but then he noticed one of the Aurors from last year standing off to the side in his usual blot. The minute new wizard was dressed in plain Joseph Black robes and had nearly no haircloth atop his heading, but instead had a large face fungus and mustache, as if he was trying to compensate.

"I think the one talking to Kendrick is from the Ministry,"Albus said.

"That 's not a good sign,"John replied."What 's the Ministry doing here on the outset day ?"

"It 's not necessarily a bad matter,"Rose pointed out."Maybe they just want to make indisputable everything is back to normal after the competition finish year."

trick opened his rima oris to reply but was silenced by the doorway opening and prof Patil entering with the new first gear years. They looked scared and tiny, far smaller than the previous twelvemonth 's first-class honours degree days. It was weird how they seemed to get smaller every year.

As with the premature twelvemonth, Albus did n't pay any attention to anyone 's sorting unless their conclusion epithet was thrower or Weasley. This yr, of course, there was only Angie entering Hogwarts from Albus 's large family. She ran up to the three-legged-stool with as much enthusiasm as the rest of the family had and jammed the hat onto her head.

It remained there for all of three instant before shouting"Gryffindor !"Angie ran from the faeces to the excited call of the Gryffindors, her brother Fred 's whistling reverberance over the rest. Everyone at Hogwarts would have bet money on Angie being a Gryffindor, but everyone still liked to cheer.

For once Albus wished that Kendrick would wee announcements before the fete was served just so he could get hold out why there were two new wizards at the staff tabular array, but like usual, Kendrick waited until after the spread. Thus, the duration of the feast was spent speculating.

"The Ministry 's sent someone to observe,"James said confidently."face at the yesteryear three years. Every single one at least one of Al and his admirer have gotten kidnapped by insane thaumaturge. Clearly the Ministry does n't imagine the teachers can protect us enough."

"That 's what the Aurors are for,"Rose pointed out."What 's some Ministry bloke going to do that an Auror ca n't do ? I really do n't intend that bloke is another Auror."

"I bet he 's here to recruit people for the Ministry,"Fred suggested."You know, spend a year with us seventh years and try to win over us that we should take on boring Ministry jobs. Bet Uncle Hotspur 's the reason for it. Probably does n't want anymore of his kin to rent up Quidditch professionally."

"That 's ludicrous,"a seventh-year girl replied."He 's probably just the new Defense teacher."

"Then who 's that former bloke ?"lusterlessness gestured to the bald man sitting next to Slughorn.

"Slughorn 's foresightful lost similitude ?"Kaden suggested."Seriously, knock off his byssus and he 'll look just like Slughorn."

"Maybe Kendrick just wanted to ask for person to the Welcome fiesta,"Amanda pointed out."It could be as dewy-eyed as that."

Albus doubted it. Nothing was ever simple when it came to life at Hogwarts. Finally, after what seemed like ages, the pudding disappeared and Kendrick stood to give his common start of term speech.

"Welcome back to Hogwarts. I give a quick welcome to our new first base old age and promise you have enjoyed your outset Hogwarts feast. I 'll prompt everyone that the forest is out of leap as well as the Whomping Willow. Those wishing to try out for their sign Quidditch teams can give their names to their header of mansion. Now, you may stimulate noticed that there are two new faculty appendage this twelvemonth even though only one position is vacant. The beginning is simple to explain and the second is a little more complicated.

"starting time, I would wish to welcome prof Elliot Young to Hogwarts. prof Cy Young is going to be taking over the DoD teacher position."Kendrick gestured to the man with the beard, while scattered clapping was received from the pupil and other professors.

"Professor Ancient if you ask me,"John muttered.

"Many of you may be aware and quite a lot of you I 'm sure are not aware that this is an election class for the Ministry of magic. Tomorrow the candidate running for diplomatic minister of magic will wee-wee their words announcing their political campaign, which will lead off a seven month campaign point. At the beginning of April, anyone who is of age will vote and the winner shall be announced. The fact that this is an election year is a wondrous educational opportunity and I was n't about to let it pass us by. Therefore I have decided to add another stratum to the syllabus. It will meet once a week and in it you will memorize the ins and outs of our political system of rules and its history.

"This is professor Richard Embry."Kendrick gestured to the blighter sitting adjacent to him, who then stood up."He is from the Ministry and has agreed to teach this new class that we have designed. The category will appear on your schedules that you will receive tomorrow. Now, I suggest all of you turn in early as course begin undimmed and too soon in the morning. Prefects, delight escort the commencement old age to the usual rooms."

Kendrick and the Ministry bloke both resumed their seats while Albus and his champion rose. The joined the mob of educatee making their way out of the Great Hall and towards the principal staircase. The Hufflepuffs and Slytherins broke away from the face pack to descend to their student residence and then the Ravenclaws left for their tower. Soon, Albus and his friend were only amongst fellow Gryffindors.

The common way was abuzz with discussion about the new prof when they arrived. near of the young students had gone to bed, but the older scholarly person were making no motility to do so. Fred was posting a sign-up sheet of paper for Quidditch try-outs on the placard circuit card while Heather watched. Albus predicted that the two of them would act more like co-captains since there was no way Heather was going to let Fred make all of the team decisions this year.

"So now we have another course of study,"John muttered as they sat down at a table near the fire."More homework. More exams."

"It 's only once a week,"rosiness pointed out.

"But still, since when has anyone at Hogwarts had to admit a class about politics ?"Saint John asked.

"Never,"Albus replied.

"Muggles take division on politics,"Amanda pointed out."My sister took one last year and my full cousin have taken them. I really do n't reckon it 's going to be that difficult."

"Yeah, it 's not like there 's going to be an O.W.L. for it,"blush wine said."Can you believe that we 'll be taking O.W.L.s next year ?"

John Lackland groaned."Do we really have to lecture about them already ?"

"Seriously,"Matt agreed."They 're a farsighted way off."

"Well, I think I 'm going to turn in,"rose said as she stood up."family startle tomorrow."

"You sound like Kendrick,"Albus said, but he was feeling slightly tired himself.

Rose and Amanda left for the girls'dormitory a little while later. Albus and the other son stayed up a while longer, but soon realized they were quite tired. They said goodnight to Kaden when they reached the third eld'dormitory and then continued on to their own. It had been a retentive day and Albus was ready to go to kip, just so he would n't suffer to think about political sympathies or the election anymore.
******


"Well, we 've got one of the new teachers today,"King John said at breakfast the keep abreast break of the day."We start off the day with Herbology and then have Defense right wing before lunch."

"When do we have that politics class ?"matte asked as he scooped a heap of oatmeal onto his plate.

"Tomorrow, rightfulness before dinner party,"whoremonger replied."Merlin, that would 've been free time if we did n't have that blooming class."

"It could be fun, lav,"Rose said.

"I have n't got it until Friday morning,"Kaden lamented."I think it will be fun. Muggle politics are boring but conjuration makes everything better."

"Bad news is we have it with the Slytherins,"Albus said.

"Of line,"Matt muttered."Would n't look anything unlike. And we 've probably got potions with them again, right ?"

Albus glanced at his schedule."Yes."They had had potions with the Slytherins every class now. Surely that could n't be accidental. Albus would have preferred they have no socio-economic class with the Slytherins, especially after what had happened in Defense the previous year. The last matter he and Matt needed was more reach with Scorpius Malfoy.

"good intelligence is that we 've got Defense with the Hufflepuffs this year,"Amanda pointed out.

"Bet Kendrick did that on purpose after last year,"John said."He 'd have to be an retard to give us that stratum with the Slytherins again.

Everyone nodded in agreement. After the setting that had developed between Albus, Gospel According to John, and Scorpius Kendrick would probably never have the three of them in Department of Defense class together again. Albus was grateful. He 'd drop the finish few weeks of his one-third year avoiding Malfoy and was fully prepared to avoid him for the remainder of his Hogwarts calling. Unfortunately the Slytherin was on his dueling team.

The group hurriedly finished their breakfast and then parted ways with Kaden before heading down to the greenhouses for Herbology. Herbology was one of those predictable year where they never had to worry about anything awfully happening when it came to subject matter or teachers. Neville was a bonny teacher who made classes interesting. Albus never had to occupy about anything odd happening while in the greenhouses, unlike potions and defence reaction.

Everyone was slightly wary of the new refutation professor and thus the seating in the backrest of the room were in richly demand. Unfortunately the Hufflepuffs had had Transfiguration beforehand and had a much unforesightful walkway, so they claimed all of the far seats. Albus, matte, and St. John the Apostle had the misfortune of having to sit at one of the front board and all three boy were on edge.

The prof ambled into the room just as class was scheduled to part. He had a very large plenty of parchment, which he set on the desk before beginning to call axial motion.

"I am prof Brigham Young,"he began after he finished with roll."And welcome to fourth year Defense Against the iniquity liberal arts. This twelvemonth we will focus on Dark nemesis, whammy, and full general magic spell, all of which are detailed out in your text edition. You can accept your books out now if you have n't already done so."

Albus rummaged in his bag and set his book on the tabular array. Professor Young picked up the stack of parchment and began passing it out to the pupil. Albus feared that it was a quiz, as he glanced down at its fill-in-the-blank question and curtly answer questions.

"Please read the initiatory chapter of your Bible and complete the worksheet by the end of the course of instruction,"Lester Willis Young said as he walked back to his desk. He said nothing more and began to read what appeared to be a novel while stroking his beard.

Albus glanced at can and mat, unsure of whether Young would holler at him if he spoke in whispers to his friends. Actually, Young might not even hear him. He did come out to be quite old. But it was just so odd that Whitney Moore Young Jr. assigned them reading and a worksheet on the first day of class. Would n't a lambaste make Thomas More sentience ? Albus could n't remember a meter when a prof had n't lectured on the first day of class.

Everyone else seemed thoroughly confused as well. For the next five minutes everyone sent each former confused flavour and coup d'oeil before finally cracking open their text edition, having realized that Cy Young was n't going to do anything besides read his novel.

Albus began to read the initiative chapter, which was dreadfully boring. It was about the most everyday of iniquity whammy, if a shadow hex could be considered mundane. The chapter did n't even mention unforgivable curses, which while horrible, were far more concern than the basic principles of what made a anathemise shadow.

Albus finished his worksheet a few minutes before Young put down his novel."Leave your worksheets here on my desk. There is n't any homework."

"That was the unknown class ever,"Albus said once they had left the way."Who gives a worksheet on the first day of class ?"

"Someone who just wants to read their Book all day,"John replied."Works for me, since he did n't give any homework."

"Still, it was horribly boring,"Albus replied.

"Honestly, I 'm felicitous it 's boring after dealing with Balladanis finish yr,"matte said.

"Somehow I do n't think this bloke is going to be bringing any Anamateks to class,"Albus said.

"An Anamatek would probably finish him off,"John replied."I do n't imagine he could handle one."

"Not many people could,"Albus pointed out.

When they arrived in the Great Hall, they were surprised to see Sakartvelo hurrying Bradley and Cedric out of the room.

"What 's legal injury ?"Albus asked, extremely confused as to why Georgia was at Hogwarts.

"Dad wants us there when he makes his big announcement."She rolled her middle."We 're supposed to be there supporting him or something."

"What time is it happening ?"Albus asked.

"One,"Peach State replied."Which means we 're already going to be later than Dad wants. It 'll be in the Evening Prophet."

"There is no way Peach State 's going to be able to pretend everything is exquisitely between her and Uncle Hotspur for the unharmed election,"rosebush said once GA and her brothers had left."She looked pestered already and he has n't even announced he 's running yet."

"She probably has to miss practice for it,"Albus replied."I just want to know who he 's running against."

"indirect request we could go watch,"rosiness said."I bet our parents are there."

"Of course they are,"Albus agreed."Matt 's dad is probably there, too."

"He is,"Matt said."Has n't got a clue as to who 's running, though."

"Guess we 'll find out tonight,"Albus said.
******


Albus did n't see Bradley or Cedric until dinner party. He had been hoping to catch one of them in between course of study, but either their agenda did n't permit them to cross paths or the promulgation had gone until dinner party. The noise in the Great Hall was n't any louder than it usually was when Albus arrived, but then again he was n't quite sure how much the ease of the students cared about the election. However at the Gryffindor table, all of Albus 's cousins were clustered at one end of the board, their mind leaned in to one another.

"Looks like a family coming together or something,"Albus said.

"We 'll see you in the common room after dinner party, then,"Amanda said as she pulled privy and Kaden towards the other end of the table, Matt following.

Albus followed blush wine to the far end of the table, where everyone else had already gathered. Albus squeezed his way in between Hugo and James I while Rose found a behind next to Lily.

"Finally, you 're here,"Saint James the Apostle said."Omar Nelson Bradley and Cedric wo n't say a Logos until everyone 's here."

"Otherwise we 'd just have to tell apart the story over and over again,"Tom Bradley muttered.

"Well, go on,"Fred encouraged.

"It was basically a Brobdingnagian fancy party with a bunch of boring lecture,"Bradley began."A bunch of Ministry people and their wives or married man and Dad was the center of care, of grade. Everyone knew he was running even though he had n't made his prescribed promulgation yet. It did n't get interesting until Dad and the witch he 's running against made their announcement-"

"Dad 's was pretty deadening,"Cedric cut in."Talked about how he 's seen the Ministry through so many variety and how we need strong leaders to keep the magical community together and loyal. Mentioned Uncle Harry and Voldemort, of course. Then everyone clapped politely and the Opposition stood up."

"The witch who 's actually running looking like she was a hawk in a late life. Her nozzle is as pointy as a nose can get and she 's got this sleek lightlessness hair that was done up in a bun. She stood up there with a crowd of multitude who she introduced as her campaign team,"Bradley said."But it was her speech that got the crowd riled up. She kept putting holes in everything Dad said. Dad mentioned about how the wizarding earth was a strong join front but she talked about how break are forming and the Ministry is slipping and modification is needed again. She made all these subtle cite of how the Aurors are n't as on top of things and how if we do n't do something the wizard world will fall apart."

"That 's ridiculous !"Fred said."The magical man is fine."

"I thought they were just making their announcements that they were running,"pink wine said."Speeches do n't originate yet."

"Neither of them are going to waste an opportunity to get suffrage,"Heather pointed out."So do you two have to make anymore appearances ?"

"Yeah,"Omar Nelson Bradley answered."Dad wants us all there for his kickoff voice communication this weekend and he said there are going to be some debates here, so we have to sit up front with Mum at those."

"And the seer wants to do a vast article on our category,"Cedric added."They 're doing one on the witch, too."

"What 's her name ?"rose asked."And what does she do in the Ministry ?"

"Patricia Laurentis,"Cedric replied."She 's some sort of adviser to the current pastor. Her title 's just as confusing and long as Dad's."

"Weird that both the candidates were working under the electric current Minister,"Rose said.

"fountainhead the company chose them."Cedric shrugged."I should get going, though. Have to go see Slughorn about what I missed earlier."

"Me too,"Bradley said as he stood up."Patil probably wo n't be pleased that I missed the number one lesson."

Cedric and Bradley left, leaving the sleep of the full cousin to talk about what they had just been told. Albus mostly listened while pushing his food for thought around his plate. What he had learned about Patricia Laurentis unnerved him a fiddling and it was mostly because persona of him thought she was right. Things were n't as everlasting as his Uncle Percy thought. Willinson was still on the sluttish and not to bring up the issue with Lubar was still undecided.

But Albus 's dad and the other Aurors were doing all they could, were n't they ? What could Patricia Laurentis do if she got elected ? There would still be the Saame Aurors working at the Ministry.

"Maybe Uncle Percy is the aright somebody to be minister of religion,"Heather said quietly."The Ministry has been working the Lapplander way since the Final conflict, has n't it ? And there have n't been anymore Voldemorts trying to gain power."

"But things ca n't always stay the same,"blush wine pointed out.

"Do you really think the Ministry needs to switch that lots ?"Scots heather asked.

"I do n't roll in the hay,"Rose said quietly."I just do n't think people are as combine as Uncle Percy thinks."

"I 'm going to the park room,"Albus said as he pushed his plate away. He was n't hungry anymore.

stride behind him told him that Rose was following, just like he hoped she would."What were you getting at ? People not being united ?"he asked once they were in an empty corridor.

"Not everyone agrees on everything, Albus,"pink wine said."Far from it. I think Uncle Percy 's slightly delusional about that. And remember what you told me about that odd bloke who gave your dad a warning at the Quidditch human race Cup ?"

"That bloke ?"Albus laughed."He was insane !"

"I 'm not denying that, but he did have a gunpoint. In an election yr everything thing. Uncle Percy 's aligned his belief with the current Minister 's, which means if he 's elected he 's going to continue doing affair the same way. The Ministry has n't caught Willinson for effective in the three years they 've been searching and he 's slipped out of their grasp numerous times. It 's not going to be difficult for that Laurentis Lady to win over people we need to change tactics, even if her tactics are n't neat either."

Albus said nil for a few mo."How do you experience all of this ?"

"I 've talked to Amanda more than you have,"Rose replied."She knows how all of this works, and it 's really not that unlike in the Muggle world."

"So you think Laurentis is going to win ?"Albus asked.

Rose laughed."I never said that and it 's far too soon to tell. They have n't even debated yet. All I 'm saying is, Uncle Percy needs to spread his eye a bit."

Albus did n't answer. He knew that his Uncle Percy 's political panorama were slightly different than the rest of his family 's, but they were still quite like. If what Rose was saying was lawful, that meant that his unscathed fellowship needed to open their middle and Albus was n't certainly how he felt about that.


A/N : Sorry about the recently update. There were some site payoff. See the forums for more details about that. Thanks to everyone who has been reading and reviewing !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"You know, this political science class is taking away from our liberal menstruum,"John the Divine said the take after morning at breakfast. He shook his head as he loaded his crustal plate eminent with scrambled eggs and bacon.

Albus nodded and waited for rose 's response about how they needed to film advantage of any memorize opportunity, even if they meant less spare time, but it did n't come. Albus turned to look at her, thinking she might be ill. She was n't. Instead she was piling her own plate in high spirits with eggs and pledge. Albus raised his supercilium at her.

"What ?"she demanded."little girl get thirsty, too."

"Not that,"Albus replied."John just complained about having another social class and you did n't groan and tell apart him off."

"I kind of agree with him."Rose shrugged.

"Are you ill ?"Albus asked as he felt her forehead.

Rose pushed his hired hand away."plosive speech sound it, Al. I 'm not saying I wo n't relish the stratum. I 'm just saying that we 're one-quarter years and O.W.L.s are closer than ever and we need all the time we can get to study. Not that John would use the sentence to study, mind you."

"There 's the Rose we all know."Saint John the Apostle grinned as he stuffed his look with bacon.

"I think it 'll be a nice change,"lustrelessness put in."Something dissimilar. Notice they gave us History of illusion on two consecutive mornings. wonder who the idiot was who did that."

"Same one who always gives us classes with the Slytherins, I 'll bet,"John said."Double Potions this aurora and I 'd bet my right arm and both my stage we 'll be with the Slytherins."

"Why not both your implements of war and wooden leg ?"Amanda asked.

"On the off-chance that I 'm wrong, I 'll postulate some form of limb to get around with,"John answered.

"I only had one class with the Slytherins last yr,"Kaden said."You lot must induce terrible fortune. I 'd better be off. Defense this morning."

"Good hazard. That professor is weird,"John said.

"Ca n't be worse than last year,"Kaden replied as he got up and left.

Albus, Matt, rose wine, and Amanda waited for John to finish his pile of egg before setting off for the keep. When they arrived the room access was already overt and Albus saw that they were indeed wit the Slytherins again. Scorpius Malfoy was sitting at one of the movement tables, looking rather smug. Albus averted his eyes and continued to the back of the classroom, where he sat down in between matte and John.

"Wonder what he 's so glad about,"Albus muttered as the rest of the educatee entered the room.

"I do n't know. But I do n't care it,"John said.

Slughorn chose that moment to waddle into the room so Albus and John could not continue their conversation."Welcome, welcome ! Ahh, my two ducky houses together again ! What luck. fountainhead, well, welcome to fourth year Potions. This is the year that affair get difficult since you 'll be sitting your O.W.L.s side by side year ..."

"Why is it they 're talking about O.W.L.s this year ?"Albus whispered."They 're still over a year off."

"... Since today is a two-fold class I thought we 'd set about brewing the first potion in your textbook and see where your acquirement lie after a summer of lounging about. Unless some of you happened to say your text script over the summertime !"

Albus glanced at Rose, who was sitting next to Amanda at one of the front tabular array. She seemed to sit up eminent in her seat.

"Let 's get started, then. You can wreak in duad of your choosing. The pair that produces the best potion will win a bar of Honeyduke 's chocolate."

John set off to work with Janie Creevey who lacked a partner while Albus and Matt set up a cauldron at their table.

"Remember your boxing glove,"Slughorn announced."If you touch the complete product your hand will immediately freeze."

"Does it seem odd to you that we have to trump up a frost Solution with fire ?"Matt asked as he stuck his scepter under the cauldron to dismount the flame.

"Very,"Albus agreed."So now that we 've had Slughorn for three years, have you noticed that he always starts the year with a contest ?"

"Yeah. I bet he uses the same curriculum every year,"flatness added."Ca n't suppose that much changes in term of potion brewing."

"I bet our parents brewed the same potions,"Albus said.

"I wonder if it 's possible for this potion to explode,"matte mused as he tossed a few part of sliced beetroot into the cauldron."

"fountainhead, I suppose we 'll find out,"came a drawling voice from behind them. Albus turned around and saw Malfoy, carrying a few bottles he must take gotten from the supply wardrobe."I 'm sure you two will manage it, if it 's possible."

"Shut it, Malfoy,"Albus replied.

Malfoy glared at him and then stalked off towards his own tabular array. Albus was slightly storm that he had left so quickly. It was strange.

"Wyrd of him to result so soon,"flatness said, as if reading Albus 's mind.

"Yeah, if you ask me, he 's afraid of you now."

mat let out a laughter."Yeah, right. If anything he 's finally realized you 're a near dueler than he is and he 's got to watch out. Speaking of which, you think you 're going to be police chief of your dueling team this twelvemonth ?"

"It 's either going to be me or Malfoy,"Albus said.

With everything else that was going on that yr, the last thing Albus needed was to be captain of his dueling team, but he did not want Malfoy as captain either. He 'd take the extra work if just to keep on Malfoy from being in thrill. Malfoy needed power like a blast-ended skrewt needed a flame thrower.

Albus and Matt did not flub up their potion by the end of the class. In fact, their potion had the same eubstance that it was supposed to and while it was slightly bawdy, it did manage to suspend the calamus Slughorn stuck in it. Rose and Amanda won the chocolate, which was no surprise to anyone.

Rose and Amanda shared their chocolate with the boy as they walked up to the Great Hall for lunch. Albus and Matt told the daughter and John about Malfoy 's bizarre doings and rosiness told them that they should just be happy he 's backing down, rather than analyze his theme.

The Great dormitory was buzzing with natural process when they entered it a few minutes later. Albus sat down at the Gryffindor table and no sooner had he grabbed a roller did ling toss a copy of the oracle onto his plate.

"What 's this ?"Albus asked as he lifted up the paper.

"This dayspring 's vaticinator. The owls were late delivering it. Something about a storm in John Griffith Chaney,"heather explained.

Albus set down his bun and opened the paper. There on the figurehead page was a picture of his Uncle Percy, smiling all-encompassing, in elaborate robes, shaking handwriting with a very tall woman, who was also smiling wide and wearing refine robes. Above the picture was the title,"campaigner for Minister of deception Announced."

By this point Rose and Matt had crowded on either incline of Albus, while Amanda and John hovered behind him, all trying to study the article. Albus 's eyes traveled down the pageboy so he could do the same.

In social movement of the stallion Ministry of conjuration,
Minister hopefuls Hotspur Ignatius Weasley and
Patricia Leigh Laurentis announced their
candidacy on Sep 3rd, 2029. Both
candidates work under minister of religion Hartwell, yet
are running against each other for face-to-face
parties.

Weasley, senior Undersecretary for the
drafting and Editing of police, has been
chosen to run for the Merlinus party,
which is the political party that current minister
Hartwell represents. Laurentis, senior
Advisor to Law Enforcement and Azkaban
official has been chosen to run for the
Paracelsus Party.

A large bunch turned out for the announcement,
which is only the first of many appearances
by both prospect. The start debate is
scheduled for Sep 8th, at the
Ministry of Magic.

"So that 's who your uncle 's run against,"Matt said.

"Guess so,"Albus replied.

"She looks a little like this maths teacher I had before I came to Hogwarts,"Amanda said."She was a scary gentlewoman. I remember once I forgot to do my homework so I spent the entire morning in the loo before mortal came looking for me."

"You can tell they both hate each other,"Matt said as he gestured to the moving picture."Sure they 're shaking hands and acting nice but clearly they both want to hex each other."

"It 's just weird that she works for Hartwell if she 's the opposite party he is,"Rose mused."Why would Hartwell induce hired her ?"

"Maybe she switched company ?"Amanda suggested."It happens in the Muggle world."

"Maybe,"pink wine said."It just seems fishy. Her trade company and hinting at all these radical modification. It just seems like something big is going to happen."

Albus could n't help but have the Saami feeling. But all he could do was hope that his uncle won the election and Laurentis would not have the prospect to change everything.

"Hey, Al, done with that newspaper publisher ?"Saint James the Apostle called from down the table.

Albus nodded and passed the Prophet down, then settling in to eat tiffin. There was no point worrying about the election now. It was calendar month away. Plus, the politics class was later that day and Albus was incredibly rummy about it.

transfiguration seemed to get behind by since it was the same as it was every year. Professor Patil explained about that twelvemonth 's course of study and how they needed to get going thinking about O.W.L.s and the increased workload. It was all rather monotonous and all Albus wanted to do was get to political science since it was something new.

Finally Transfiguration was over and Albus and his friends hurried to the fifth level to the classroom where political sympathies was held. They slowed down when they reached the room as none of them wanted to be the first to enter.

"We better not take this with the Slytherins,"John muttered as they neared the doorway.

Albus peeked in the doorway."Nope, Hufflepuffs."

john let out an audible sigh of relief and Albus pushed the room access give as they entered. Only a few Hufflepuffs were there, seated towards the back, and the professor was nowhere in sight. rosebush immediately claimed a desk in the front and Amanda chose one next to her, while Albus and the former boy headed to the group of Hufflepuffs in the book binding.

"Do you retrieve there will be homework in this family ?"John asked as they sat down.

Albus raised his supercilium."Is that a serious doubtfulness ?"

John shrugged."Well it 's not like there will be an O.W.L. We probably wo n't even experience this social class future class. So why would there be preparation ?"

"Because it 's a course of study and this is Hogwarts,"Albus replied."I guarantee there will be homework."

The quietus of the class filed in, filling in the buns that remained in the midsection of the classroom. As the bell rang, Professor Embry entered, walking with an air that this course of instruction would be all workplace and no play.

"commodity afternoon,"Professor Embry began as he shuffled a few papers on his desk."Welcome to Basic Wizarding government. I am Professor Embry and you will address me such."

Embry stepped out from behind his desk and began to stride the length of the classroom."I understand that nigh of you know absolutely nil about politics and assume that the minister of conjuring trick is born the diplomatic minister and Laws just magically come into being. A select few of you,"his eyes rested on Albus, and then on mat, and on two Hufflepuff little girl,"have parents in the Ministry and may get slightly more knowledge than the rest, but that would be rather generous of me to assume.

"Hogwarts has not put a great deal stake in political educational activity before now, something that I feel is lacking in today 's educational activity and like to reclaim this class. The program will let in history of how our government came to be the way it is today as well as how the government is currently run."

The socio-economic class let out a collective grown at the word history. Albus glanced at rosebush, who was on the edge of her seat.

"But sir,"a particularly brave Hufflepufff boy announced,"we 've already learned the history. We take chronicle of Magic."

Embry let out a little laughter."With Professor Binns ? If I may be frank, that man died before well-nigh of the account happened. Along with that, he 'll put a rock to sleep."Embry chuckled. No one in the class dared to laugh."I 'm going to give you a proper story of our modern politics, starting with a brief overview of what the government was like before the reign of Voldemort and a more comprehensive overview of what it is like today.

"I will also devote a class menses each to the way the government is run in France, the United States, and Australia. Now, since you were not aware that this class would aim place, you have not acquired Word of God. Therefore I have purchased them for you. You are to treat them as library leger and return them to me in similar condition at the end of the year. Lest your parents be billed."

Embry flicked his wand and loads of account book flew out of a nearby cupboard. They landed softly in front of the students. Albus glanced down and read the title. politics and government activity in Modern Wizarding Britain by Beatrice Holden. It looked about as dull as the cupboard it had come out of.

"Very good. Now, get out sheepskin and flight feather. I 'm not going to let the rest of this class period go to waste,"Embry said as he tapped his wand on the board. Notes immediately appeared on it.

Embry lectured for the remainder of the class about how the showtime governance was formed in United Kingdom. It was incredibly dry. The but reason Albus stayed awake was because he had to get notes. Literally had to. Embry caught a John not taking notes and threatened him with detention this Saturday if he did n't start.

"That 's all for today,"Embry said after the Alexander Bell rang."Next year we 'll fast forward in time and learn about the government pre-Voldemort. Read the offset chapter for homework and issue forth up with three attentive interrogative sentence to put to the rest of the class. Dismissed."

"How does Hogwarts draw the most bizarre instructor ?"Albus asked once they were out of earreach of the classroom.

"Kendrick must put it on the list of job requirements,"John replied."must be out of your freaking idea to pack this position."

"I think he 's professional,"Rose piped in."It seems like we 'll really learn stuff."

"Why bother ?"John Lackland asked."It 's not like we 're old enough to make a say in the government activity anyway."

"But we will one day,"Amanda pointed out."And to be honest, I 'd be a bit afraid if everyone our age felt like you do, John. Muggles get politics classes in schooling. It makes sentiency that we should, too."

"She 's got a level, mate,"Matt said."Who has the baron in your country matters. If you elect the incorrect people, things can go horribly wrong. Not everyone gets to elect their drawing card, either. We do n't even get to do that fully. The positions that Albus 's dad has and my dad ingest ? In the United States, those are elected positions. Not here."

"And before Voldemort, we did n't even elect our minister,"rosebush said.

"How do you lot even know this clobber ?"John asked as they drew stuffy to the Gryffindor common room.

"Parents."Amanda shrugged."It 's amazing what you pick up when your parents think you 're too Loretta Young to worry to eavesdrop."

"Wait."John stopped in the heart of the corridor and looked at his booster."Wait. Now that we know about your uncle, you lot all have kinsperson involved with the Ministry, wether it 's the magical ministry or the Muggle ministry."

Albus grinned sheepishly."surmise so."

John Lackland groaned."This is insane. Why could n't I have picked normal booster ?"

"Normal is highly overrated,"Matt said as they reached the Fat Lady.

******


The residue of the week went by fairly quickly, in Albus 's opinion. Everyone, students and teachers, fell back into their usual Hogwarts routines and by the time Fri arrived Albus had a flock of homework as high as his bed and was more than ready for a few days off. But when he saw the notification add-in in the common room when he got back from magical spell on Friday afternoon, he knew that would not be entirely possible.

Fred had scheduled Quidditch praxis on Saturday at eight in the morning.

"Eight !"Albus exclaimed."In the morning ? Is he thoroughly insane ? It 's the first week back ! Even Georgia was n't dotty enough to do that."

"yobbo lot, match,"St. John the Apostle said as he tossed his bag onto a nearby sofa."Eight in the morning. Let 's see, I 'll be snuggled up in bed. What about you, Matt ? What will you be doing at eight in the aurora ? Flying through the rainfall ? Trudging through the mud to the pitching ?"

"course of action not."matt grinned."I 'll be cozy in bed, having an puzzle pipe dream where I 'm playing for the Cannons. In perfect weather of course."

"The carom are the only team you 'd ever let hope of playing for,"John replied.

Albus threw himself down on the lounge. Fred was insane. That was all there was to it. Well, he could apply for a professor spatial relation once he graduated. He 'd meet the insanity requirement.

"Speak of the Old Nick,"John said as Fred entered the common room.

"You !"Albus shouted as he got up."Why in the public figure of everything Merlin owns did you schedule exercise at eight in the good morning on a Sabbatum ? Not everyone 's a seventh year taking four course of study. We ca n't all sleep in every bloody day."

Fred shrugged."Had to. Pitch is booked satisfying all weekend except for Saturday daybreak and evening. All the other theatre are having try-outs. We ca n't even support our custodian try-outs until succeeding weekend because of it."

"Why not the even then ?"

"Tom Bradley 's got to make an show at Uncle Percy 's speech."Fred rolled his eyes.

"Then why have practice at all ? We do n't need to coach anyone new until we get a new custodian,"Albus pointed out.

"It 's been a unscathed summer. We 're rust-brown. We 've got to start out training early on. I want that Quidditch trophy."

"We 've been playing Quidditch all summertime,"Albus said flatly.

"Look, Al, I 'm not changing it. Just deal with it,"Fred said as he continued up to his dorm.

Albus spent the residuum of the even fuming about practice and cursing Fred under his breath, until rose suggested they all go to the room after dinner party. Albus reluctantly agreed, knowing that if they went to the Room he 'd be up half the night and would only get a few 60 minutes'nap.

In the end he was glad rose suggested it. They spent the evening playing Gobstones and Exploding Snap and listening to John and Kaden think up new ways to prank the Slytherins, and more specifically, Scorpius Malfoy. Eventually, Albus decided to call it a nighttime and headed back to his dormitory, leaving his ally to continue discussing whether it would be better to change state Malfoy 's hair red or purple.

Only a few suddenly 60 minutes later Albus found himself sneaking quietly out of his dormitory at an hour of day that was only meant to be seen on weekdays. He grabbed his Scots heather and went to meet his teammates in the common room.

No one looked happy. James was nodding off on the couch while Ryan attempted to tie his brake shoe without opening his eyes. Heather 's hair was sticking up at odd angle while she tried to tame it into a ponytail. Bradley was sulking in an armchair. Even Fred looked a fiddling worse for vesture. But they trudged through the rook, only seeing Peeves loosening a few door flexible joint and Filch 's cat malingering behind a suit of armour.

The weather was at least prissy and the four hours they spent on the pitch went by relatively fast. Albus and his teammate landed on the priming as the Slytherin Quidditch team made their way onto the pitch. Albus glared at them as they passed.

Without going up to his dorm to interchange, Albus headed into the Great Granville Stanley Hall hoping there would be something good for lunch. Having skipped breakfast, he was starving. He spotted his friend halfway down the Gryffindor table and after stowing his broom underneath the Bench, he sat down and grabbed the nearest dish.

"You could at least shower for the first time, Al,"Rose said."You stink."

"Too starved,"Albus replied.

"Albus !"Lily called from down the tabular array. She got up and headed over to him."Mum and Dad sent this earlier."She handed him a piece of parchment."They want us to go to the debate tonight since it 's the number one one and all. We 're expected to Floo from Kendrick 's field of study to the Ministry at five."

Albus groaned as he read the letter."That gives me about four minute to slack and possibly do homework."

"Are you going to have to go to every argumentation ?"Rose asked.

"Hope not,"Albus replied in between bites."You do n't receive to go ?"

"Have n't gotten anything about it. Dad probably does n't even want to go himself so he wo n't get us. And Mum probably expects that it would just take away from my studies."

"This says I have to don arrange robe,"Albus muttered.

"At to the lowest degree you can tell us if anything expert happens,"lusterlessness said.

"And what about you ? Your dad 's high in the Ministry. Why are n't you going ?"Albus asked, desperate to detect person else who could keep him company.

"He already told me over the summertime that I 'll only stimulate to go to ones at Hogwarts. And then whatever political party the prospect will throw for the functionary. Does n't think an election should cause very much effect on my life,"lusterlessness explained.

"Lucky,"Albus replied.

Albus made the nigh of the rest of the day. He and his champion took prep down to the lake, but it sat ignored under a beech tree Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree while they sat by the edge of the lake and dangled their groundwork in. Kaden swore the behemoth squid tried to eat his foot, but cipher believed him. blush wine and Amanda took a walk by themselves along the edge of the forest, insisting that none of the boy follow.

Kaden pulled a Fanged Frisbee out of his bag once the girls left and the boys began tossing it around. This was majuscule fun until the Frisbee decided it had had enough of being thrown and took out a incision of Kaden 's tomentum, leaving his question bleeding rather profusely and Albus, John, and Matt having to rush him to the hospital wing. By the prison term Kaden 's brain had been bandaged up and all four had received a lecture on the peril of Fanged Frisbees ( ma'am Pomfrey somehow figured out that that was the drive ) it was time for Albus to head back to Gryffindor column to get ready for the debate.


A/N : Sorry for the deficiency of a May update. schoolhouse was insane. But I only have a yr left ! I 'm now dwelling house for the summer and am having issues getting my Internet to cooperate with HPFF. thing take a long clip to charge and I can not reply to reviews. I will still read every review, but responses will call for a while since I have to be at the depository library to respond to them.

Since I last-place updated I 've had some issues with hoi polloi plagiarizing my storey. I really hate that I have to secernate you blackguard this, but it is against the linguistic rule to conduct anyone 's report from here and put them on other internet site. It 's also against the rules to rent patch, eccentric, etc without permission. I do not give my permission for anyone to take my plots or eccentric. I 'm really happy that you guys like my stories, but please do n't take them.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


If there was one thing Albus hated it was getting dressed up for Ministry outcome. He had always been slightly uncomfortable with his dad 's fame and Ministry position because he hated the attention. James had always been the type who would enjoy in the attention, enjoying when all the Ministry officials proclaimed how big he was getting and how he was sure as shooting to be the star of Gryffindor 's Quidditch team. Lily was rather unbiased towards it. She never really expressed emotion about the attention one way or another. She enjoyed getting dressed up but once they were at whatever party, she would go off and do her own thing. Albus just did not like it. He did not like getting his cheeks pinched by old ma'am and did not the like random multitude telling him how tall he was getting. As he got Old, he did not like it any more.

But it was a fact of life and so Albus found himself once again forcing himself into a set of emerald green attire robes. They were wrinkled, but he did n't know any sort of ironing magic spell so he let them be. It 's not like anyone would be focused on him anyway. This was his Uncle Percy 's Night and it seemed like this integral year was going to be his Uncle Harry Hotspur 's year.

Albus tamed his hair with a bit of piddle and then met King James I, Lily, Omar Nelson Bradley, and Cedric in the green room. James looked smooth and perfectly well-fixed in his blue dress robes, whereas Omar Nelson Bradley and Cedric looked like they were being strength fed rotten fish in their matching grey gown. Lily was wearing a purplish clothes and as usual, did n't appear to suffer an judgement about going to the disputation.

"So you three got roped into this, too ?"Bradley asked as they made their way to Kendrick 's study.

"Yeah, Mum sent us a varsity letter this dayspring,"Lily explained."I guess Dad thinks we should be at the kickoff one."

"At to the lowest degree you do n't have to go to all of them,"Bradley muttered.

The rest of the trip to Kendrick 's study was soundless. When they arrived they saw that Kendrick was in dress robes as well and was apparently escorting them to the Ministry and would stay to determine the debate. He handed them each a bit of Floo powder and let them go first.

Albus stepped into the Floo after Saint James the Apostle and soon found himself in the Ministry of Magic 's entree hall. The place was far quieter than it was the lowest time he had been there, the following yr, when he went with lustrelessness to tell his dad about Lubar being at Hogwarts.

Kendrick led them to the cosmetic surgery and down to the court rooms."The sole position big enough to adapt everyone witnessing the argument. Even still, it 's an invitation only event. It 's being broadcasted over the receiving set, however. Kendrick stopped in front of motor hotel way ten and opened the threshold. The elbow room was about half full-of-the-moon. Albus spotted his mother 's lustrous red hair in the starting time row of seating. He followed Kendrick down the stairs.

Albus 's aunt Corrine was sitting with his parents, along with a rather dour looking Georgia and the twins, who were both reading books. Kendrick began to speak quietly to Harry as Albus and the others filed into the row. James, Bradley, and Cedric immediately began to utter of Quidditch and Albus listened in. They were speculating on who would record up for Keeper try-outs the following weekend. Peach State immediately perked up and began giving the boy advice on who they should keep an eye out for.

It soon became obvious that the pass on side of the strawman row of the seating was reserved for Walker Percy 's kinfolk. They were joined by all of Albus 's aunts and uncles, as well as Victoire, Teddy, and Stanley. In fact the only one of his older cousin-german that was not there was Gabriella. Albus wanted to ask Victoire where she was but she was too far away.

Albus assumed that the first row on the right side was reserved for Laurentis 's family, although Albus did n't agnize a single one of the people in that row. He turned around and focused on the people filing in. He recognized a few of them including Matt 's parents and a few early Ministry official he 'd met before. lustrelessness 's parents sat down behind Albus 's parents, succeeding to prof Kendrick. Albus briefly wished that matt had been forced to go, but quickly erased that idea because what kind of champion would wish their best friend had to attend a political debate ?

The chatter in the room immediately subsided when Minister Hartwell entered followed by a few of his confining advisers. Behind them were Walker Percy and Laurentis, both wearing Ministry robe. Hartwell and his advisers sat along a table at the front man of the room while Percy and Laurentis stood behind soapbox, also at the front of the way. The Minister spoke with his advisers briefly while Percy and Laurentis smiled and waved at the gang. Then one of the advisor rose from his seat.

He was a portly man, whose robes stretched very tightly across his eye. He was completely bald-pated and had no beard, but a very wide-cut moustache. Aiming his verge at his own pharynx, he muttered a spell and then set his wand down.

"Welcome,"his phonation boomed over the audience,"to the first argument of the 2020 election for Minister of illusion. Our two nominee, Harry Hotspur Ignatius Weasley and Patricia Leigh Laurentis, join us tonight for an introductory public debate on a variety of issues. My name is Wendell York and I am the header of the Department of Magical Transportation and will serve as moderator for tonight 's argumentation. I will put the topic and each candidate will get five minutes to reply, then two minutes for a rebuttal.

"The first topic is how our reality is concealed from Muggles. Do you think the electric current Ministry is doing an tolerable job ? What changes would you kick up ? Mr. Weasley, you may go first."

Albus yawned. Why could n't it be an exciting subject like catching Dark whiz ? Or at least something relevant to his life, like the lack of good DoD professor at Hogwarts. Now that would be a disputation he 'd be interested in. Albus turned towards Percy and realized he had n't even been paying attention to much of his uncle 's response.

"... flow laws do a satisfactory job of concealing our reality from Muggles. Magic sightings by Muggles are low in number and when they do fall out Obliviators do an splendid job of altering the memory board of our Muggle neighbor ..."Percy droned on.

Albus turned to James who rolled his eyes. Could they have come up with a more ho-hum topic ? Albus seriously doubted it. Except perhaps cauldron can thickness, which was a story Percy had done when he first started at the Ministry, according to Harry. Albus glanced at his dad. He was paying tending, but in that certain way of paying aid that meant he was really bored but was trying to fake it. Even Corrine looked slightly bored.

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Wendell York said."Ms. Laurentis, your turn."

"I disagree with Mr. Weasley,"Laurentis began."One sighting of our kind by Muggles is too many. Each meter a Muggle catches sight of an act of magic puts our full world at risk, and not only Britain 's wizarding mankind. We have a responsibility to the universe that we proceed our conjuring trick under wraps. According to last class 's statistics we were in the top five nation in terms of numbers game of sightings. That 's not good ..."

Laurentis went on and on about various laws that could be enacted to ensure that Muggles did not see bit of magic until Wendell York cut her off. He then let Percy give birth his two instant rebutter, during which he went on about how it was an unimaginable goal to try, to accomplish no wizardly sightings by Muggles. Laurentis 's rebuttal was basically just a re-statement of her previous argument.

Albus tuned much of the argumentation out, focusing instead on what he wanted to do during the current school year. He was a fourth year, which meant he was no longer one of the younger kids. He 'd been on the Quidditch team for two years and now he was hoping he 'd be able to have some say in how recitation went and how lucifer were played. Then there was the Dueling golf club. Each of the eight teams had a captain and the captains were quarter class. Professors, mostly Neville, picked the captains. Albus knew it would be down to either him or Scorpius and as much as he did not really want the responsibleness of being sea captain, he did not need Scorpio to consume superpower over him. He would use that to his advantage.

The debate wore on and Albus continued to not pay attention until he heard the words 'education'and 'Hogwarts'. That got his attention. It was Laurentis 's play to go first.

"I think educational reform is the best way to go. Hogwarts has been ran the same way for contemporaries and while no one can abnegate that Headmaster Kendrick runs a howling school day, we also can not brush off that changes could be made to benefit the educatee. The world is a constantly changing place and didactics needs to restrain up in lodge for our students to be better organise.

"The class choices for example. It is my understanding that a new form has been added this year about political sympathies, which I think is greatly beneficial to educatee. But former than that the same classes are offered now as have been offered for decades. New classes need to be phased in while old single that either no longer interest educatee need to be phased out. Obviously I am not talking about core classes such as Potions and magic spell, but elective.

"instructor also need to be kept up to date with Holocene findings in their subject field. They should not be teaching the like entropy I or my opponent learned at Hogwarts. They should be teaching the newest valid data available-"

"Thank you, Ms. Laurentis, but your clock time is up. Mr. Weasley."

"My opposer brings up an interest point, but even she admits that Headmaster Kendrick is running an first-class schoolhouse. I believe that some regime regulating is requisite, representative being last year 's incident with Professor Balladanis, but we as governance officials do not have the preparation nor experience needed to properly run a school. I, as well as my antagonist, would be kidding ourselves if we believed we could do a better job running Hogwarts than Professor Kendrick.

"Just as prof most likely believe it good to pass on law making and the running of the rural area to those such as my opponent and I, I believe it best to leave the run of Hogwarts to Professor Kendrick and the early professor. In conclusion, I believe that Hogwarts is mulct as is and if the schoolmaster thought he needed government help bringing about change in curriculum he would ask."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"the moderator said."Ms. Laurentis, your rebuttal."

"I in no way stated that I am trying to run Hogwarts. Nor do I think I would do a better job of it than Professor Kendrick. I am merely stating that the students would benefit from more government intervention. If the Ministry had been more involve with teacher selection, for example, we could throw possibly avoided hiring professor Balladanis last year."

"Mr. Weasley."

"My opponent is speculating. There is no way for anyone to say whether government officials would own found prof Balladanis to be an inappropriate prof during his audience. In fact, I would lean towards the contrary, considering that neither I or my resister have ever hired a professor before."

Both Harry Hotspur and Laurentis were red in the font. Albus was surprised a Ministry shop at debate could get so heated. He craned his head and turned around in order to see what Kendrick 's response to all this was, but found that Kendrick was hiding his emotions far better than either Hotspur or Laurentis. It also seemed that everyone in the room was paying rapt tending, including King James I and Lily. The only two people who were n't were Samantha and Lindy.

There was one final exam question about law making that Albus did n't really understand, nor did he care to realize. He was far more interested in the Hogwarts question. Percy 's argumentation was far better, in his feeling. Hogwarts was ok the way it was. Why did Laurentis privation to interchange everything ? What sorting of modification was she talking about, anyway ? He supposed the issue would be explored more specifically at the education themed debate which was scheduled to take place at Hogwarts the following calendar month. But one thought that Albus could not get out of his head was that if Laurentis won, what would occur to Hogwarts ?
******


"The only variety I want to see at Hogwarts is less homework and fewer exam,"John the Divine said as he walked with Albus and the eternal sleep of their Friend to the Great Hall.

A workweek had passed since the foremost debate and bookman were still talking about the possible variety to Hogwarts. A very magnanimous full page cattle ranch had appeared in the Daily prophet the day after the argument, proclaiming that Laurentis wished to commute Hogwarts. This had both student and prof up in weaponry and things were only beginning to calm down. The professors had been on edge the old workweek, snapping at students for nothing and assigning redundant homework. This resulted in the scholarly person being very distressed. Albus did not quite realize why everyone was letting it affect them so much. It 's not ilk Laurentis had won. Yet.

It was early on Saturday aurora and Albus and his friends were heading to the Great Asaph Hall for the first Junior 's Dueling nightclub group meeting of the year. Albus 's nervus were on end. It was at this first meeting that the captains would be announced.

"If Scorpio gets captain I 'm going to remove something,"Saint John muttered as they entered the Great Hall.

"You 're not even on his team,"Rose said.

"I am and I could n't suffer it if he won,"Amanda pointed out.

"If he 's master, tourney are going to be nasty,"whoremonger countered."Plus, I 'm Al 's friend."

The Great Hall was in great deal topsy-turvydom, as it always was during the outset confluence of the year. Two teams were congregated at each mesa and much to Albus 's disdain, his team was holding court at the Slytherin table. He weaved his way through the flurry irregular years who had yet to be assigned a team and stood future to his squad. Scorpius was seated across the mesa from him.

"wellspring, Potter, ready to be under my captaincy ?"Scorpio greeted him.

"I could say the same to you,"Albus replied."What makes you so sure you 'll get it ?"

"I 'm the effective dueler, obviously."Scorpio smirked.

"serenity, quieten everyone !"Neville shouted.

Albus turned away from Scorpius and swallowed the desire to make a come back and paid attention to Neville instead. Professor Patil stood next to him. Albus supposed the new Defense professor had not had a desire to help with the Dueling Club. Somehow, Albus was not surprised.

"Thank you,"Neville said."First I 'd like to announce that professor Patil has graciously agreed to assist me shop this year 's Dueling baseball club. As a monitor, all teams must bear a professor present during recitation and it is up to the squad police chief to align practice times and locate a professor to sit in. The professor does not have to be myself or Professor Patil. However, this year we are allowing seventh year Dueling guild penis to supervise as well. So as an alternative, you may ask a seventh year to supervise.

"First decree of business is this year 's back years. I 've already assigned you to teams and shall now read off the list."

Albus let his judgment wander while Neville read off the list. The simply arcsecond years he knew were his sister, and she was assigned to Matt 's team, as well as Hugo, who was assigned to John and Kaden 's team. A crop of shy looking second twelvemonth had congregated at his own team 's spot and he smiled at them, encouraging them to take seats next to the elderly students. There were five of them. Two boys and three girl. Three Ravenclaws, a Slytherin, and a Hufflepuff. No Gryffindors, but Albus could live with that.

"And now, what I am sure all the quartern years have been waiting for, headwaiter annunciation ! Let me remind you that I, as well as the other professors who have been involved with this club have been watching you over the past tense two years and have chosen not only exceptional duelers, but exceptional leaders. Without further adieu.

"The captain of team One is Marina Jordan-Bell."

cheer erupted for Marina, mostly from the Hufflepuff table, where her squad was seated. Albus grinned. Marina was very Nice and would make an fantabulous captain.

"The maitre d'hotel of squad Two is Harvey Tucker."

King John and Kaden 's team. William Harvey was a Ravenclaw and all Albus knew about him was that he knew every answer in every single class.

"The police chief of Team terzetto is Peter Smith."

A Hufflepuff. His beginner had attended school with Albus 's parents and they had n't liked him much.

"The maitre d'hotel of Team Four is Lydia Thompson."

A rather snobby Slytherin whom was often seen with Scorpio. Scorpius grinned and clapped loudly for her.

"The chieftain of Team Five is Jace Johnson."

Rose 's team. Jace was a Hufflepuff who did n't seem to ever be not happy. It was kind of bizarre, actually.

"The master of Team Six is Raisha Sweeney."

A Hufflepuff that Albus did n't know well. He swallowed hard. Team VII was next and that was his team.

"The captain of Team Seven is Albus Potter."

King John 's whistling could be heard above everyone 's cheering. Albus grinned. His entire squad ( save for Scorpius and his Quaker ) were clapping hard. He 'd done it. He 'd made chieftain ! All the uncertainties he 'd had over the summer about it had disappeared. He, Albus thrower, was the new headwaiter of Team Seven.

"The sea captain of squad Ashcan School is Dayton Coons."

Matt 's squad. Dayton was another Ravenclaw who had multiple encyclopaedia in his brain.

"That 's all for today. Captains, please flesh out a prison term for your first practice, which should take place during the next two workweek. Once you have a date, delight see me to get a classroom. Then find oneself a prof or seventh year to supervise.

Scorpius did not say one countersign as Albus talked with the rest of his team and figured out a practice metre that did not step in with four different Quidditch squad, Gobstones Club, and chess game Club. Eventually he settled on the next Thursday evening. Neville assigned them to an evacuate schoolroom on the sixth floor. Albus figured he 'd ask a 7th year to oversee rather than a professor. It was less intimidating for his first practice.

Albus 's booster joined him at the door to the Great Hall. Scorpio brushed past them, but did not say a word. He looked like he was ready to murder someone. Albus thought he looked far too wild over a lost captaincy. It was just the Jnr 's Dueling Club anyway.

"Did Malfoy say anything to you ?"john asked on their way back to Gryffindor.

"Not a word,"Albus replied.

"Do n't guess about him,"rose said."What 's the point ? You made captain and that 's all that matters."

Albus grinned."virtually of the captains are pretty decent, too. I mean Lydia 's form of irritating, but the rest are n't bad."

"It 's going to be a serious year for dueling, that 's for sure,"Matt agreed.

The six Quaker discussed dueling all the way back to the uncouth room. When they entered they saw a sign that said 'Congratulations Albus and Marina !'Unopened butterbeers cluttered one of the table and all of Albus 's cousins were cracking them undefendable. Marina was surrounded by her protagonist and Albus was accosted by his cousins as soon as he entered. Someone thrust a butterbeer into his hand and patted him on the back. He smiled as he looked out at the common elbow room, at the party that his cousins had thrown together for himself and Marina. Matt was not only right about the fact that it would be a near year for dueling. It was going to be a good twelvemonth in superior general.


A/N : So I bet you 're all jumble about the name alteration ! Well, I 've been doing some thought and a plot of land change was needed. The chapters that are already posted wo n't be affected. The change only affects what I have n't written yet. But the old form of address was n't going to work with the new plot of land, so I had to alter it. I like the new one better anyway. And do n't worry, Percy will still run for government minister. Actually, the new secret plan focuses more on that.

To suffice in advance, because I know this will total up, I wo n't tell what the old plot was going to be. I 'd rather people not compare the old plot with the one that will actually be written.

If any of you are on the forum, you 'll live about the tragedy we had last week. Liza Potter on the archives ( and lizzacc on the meeting place ) has died. She was a fan of my Albus series and told me once that they were the first tale she ever read on HPFF. She will be missed. I am dedicating this floor to you, Liza.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The next day Albus found himself on the Quidditch delivery staring at all of the new Gryffindor steward wannabee. There were a lot of them. Try-outs were scheduled to start out in fifteen hour, yet the pitching had been packed since before tiffin. Albus speculated that some hopeful, including Victor-Marie Hugo, had not even taken a prison-breaking for lunch. Poor Hugo need n't cause bothered skipping his meal since even an extra half hour of praxis would not let helped him.

Students from second through one-seventh year were hoping for a patch on the squad, including Janie Creevey. Albus recognized virtually of them, but there were a few sometime students whom he did not. Along with the Gryffindors, there were interpreter from other squad, surely there to stop out Gryffindor 's new Keeper.

Albus stood on the pitch a few meters from the crowd, with his squad. Fred was holding a clipboard and Heather was standing succeeding to him, gazing out at the students hoping for a patch. James, Bradley, and Ryan were laughing about something.

"tranquillity, please, everyone !"Fred shouted. The Gryffindors immediately settled down. A few flew back down to the basis and dismounted, some not very gracefully."Thank you. We only need a custodian this year. And if you ca n't Keep, you 're not going to get on the team. If you 're hoping to get in as Keeper and then lease another 's slur when they graduate, you might as well not desolate your time."

Wow, Albus thought to himself, Fred was channeling both GA and Samantha Meyers. Usually he would joke around at try-outs, but Albus supposed since he was now in charge, affair had changed.

A few of the younger scholarly person walked slowly off the pitch and into the viewpoint, looking clearly disappointed.

"All right then, I 'm going to have you fly around the pitch to assess your basic flying acquisition. If you 're not up to par on that, you 'll be eliminated. Then we 'll move on to guarding the goal posts."

Albus stood back while Fred had the wannabe fly laps around the auction pitch. Quite a few could not even manage to fly straight or put to death turn properly. About a stern of them were eliminated during the first ten minutes. one-half of the remaining Gryffindors were eliminated within the first ten moment of goal keeping, including Hugo. He hung his head as he walked to the stands, ling trailing behind him. Albus felt bad for him.

The eternal rest of the of the student took farseeing to annihilate. After about an hr the amount had been narrowed down to ten and they all seemed to be standardized in skill.

"I think the only average way to do this is to do away with anyone who misses a save. concluding one standing, er, flying, gets the spot,"Fred announced.

It took another half minute to cease the try-outs. To Albus 's surprise, the success was Janie Creevey. Albus had had no idea that she even played Quidditch until he saw her at the try-outs. She grinned as she dismounted from her Calluna vulgaris and accepted the congratulations from the residual of the team.

"Nice to own another fille,"Heather said."I thought I 'd be the merely one after Georgia left."

"I thought your cousin Hugo would get picked,"Ryan replied."Who knew he was the solitary Weasley who ca n't play Quidditch ?"

"wealthy person you seen rose wine on a ling ?"Albus asked.

Janie grinned."I 've played since I was little. So happy to get won the spot. When 's initiative practice ?"

"Right now,"Fred said."We 've got the pitch all afternoon."

Albus sighed. Fred was turning into Georgia. But Albus enjoyed Quidditch and it was a promising and cheery day, so it would n't be bad.

Practice lasted a few hours and Albus was thoroughly exhausted by the time it was over. He immediately went back to his student residence to need a shower and then set off to locate his admirer. dinner party would be served shortly and Albus was starved.

Albus 's supporter were in the piranha 's Den, just where he had predicted when he did n't see them in the Gryffindor common elbow room when he had traipsed through after practice session. whoremaster and Kaden were playing chess and Kaden was trouncing St. John, like usual. pink wine and Amanda were sitting on the couch discussing an essay that Cedonia had assigned the previous week. Matt was not there since the total lunar month had been the previous Nox.

"Albus !"John the Evangelist exclaimed after Al had shut the door."So, who 's the new Gryffindor steward ?"

"You 're never gon na believe it, but Janie Creevey,"Albus answered as he collapsed onto a nearby chairperson."Apparently she has been playing Quidditch for ages and was just waiting for the Keeper billet to open."

"Seriously ?"whoremonger asked."She never mentioned it all these eld that we 've been brewing potions together."

"She 's probably too busy making certainly you do n't blow anything up,"Rose replied.

"Hey, I 'm better than Al and mat are,"can muttered.

"oral presentation of matt, have you lot been to see him today ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah, but he was asleep so Madam Pomfrey did n't let us stay. Figured we 'd go after supper,"John answered.

"Let 's get going now,"Albus said, standing up."Should be starting soon."

Everyone nodded in correspondence and they set off towards the Great mansion house. The corridors were filled with bookman who had spent the day outdoors and Albus felt very content walking alongside his friends, despite how every single one of his muscles ached from practice session.

"Shhhh, look !"John seethed as he grabbed the back of Albus 's shirt and pulled him into a doorway. Kaden, pink wine, and Amanda followed, all looking curiously at John.

"What is it ?"rosiness asked.

"Shush !"Saint John the Apostle whispered."It 's Scorpius and Willinson 's cousin. What was his public figure again ?"

"Felix,"Kaden muttered."Slimy git."

"Who 's that with them ?"Amanda asked.

Albus craned his head around the threshold frame. Scorpius and Felix were standing next to a few suits of armour, capitulum leaned in towards each other. There was a girl about a head shorter than Scorpius with them. She and Felix had the same color hair, except hers was long and curly.

"She 's a first year. I remember seeing her a the sort but I do n't commemorate her name,"blush wine answered.

"I have half a mind to save her from the two of them,"John muttered."She 'd be better off not getting mixed up with the likes of them."

"She 's a Slytherin,"Amanda pointed out."She could be just like them for all we know."

Scorpius began walking down the corridor and Felix and the girl followed. Albus and his Quaker watched them until they turned a corner, disappearing out of flock.

"Weird,"Albus said as they began walking to dinner once more."I 've never seen Malfoy befriending maiden years, except for Willinson when he came here."

"You 're paranoid,"Rose said."They were just talking and they 're in the same house. Maybe she had a question or something."

"He 's Malfoy,"Albus responded."He 's up to something."

"Oh Merlin."rosiness let out an aggravate sigh."Two workweek into the term and you 're already picking a row with him."

"Remember net year ?"Albus asked."I 'm only trying to avert something like that again."

"amercement. But I 'm not getting involved,"Rose muttered.

Albus walked in secretiveness the rest of the way to the Great hall. rose may sustain been right. Albus may have just been being paranoiac, but deep down he had a feeling that Malfoy and Willinson were n't just talking about homework.
******


Matt returned from the hospital wing two days later and the month wore on in its usual way. The prof were assigning more and More homework and it took longer and longer to finish.

Once October arrived inflammation began to brew when the first Hogsmeade weekend was announced. The visit was scheduled for the Sabbatum before Halloween and Kaden in picky was very excited. He never did manage to stool it to Hogsmeade under the Invisibility Cloak the previous year.

Albus 's first dueling practice had gone particularly well. Albus had been pleasantly surprised. Even Scorpio had cooperated and done what Albus had told him to do, although that may have been solely because Professor Cedonia had been present during the exercise. His team was shaping up well and he had high hopes for them winning many tournaments. Quidditch had been going equally as well. Janie had fit seamlessly into their team.

Albus wished he could say things were going equally well for the election. Ever since the first off disputation various cartridge clip and radio set appearance had been latching onto Percy 's assertion about didactics and his lack of willingness to change, as they had put it.

"Dad 's really stressed,"Bradley said one Nox at dinner. The Weasleys and Potters were all eating together in order to discuss the election."Does n't write us as lots and when he does it 's always about the election."

"Not to mention the five page feast that Wizards cartridge is doing about our kin,"Cedric muttered as he gnawed on a turkey leg."That 's sure to fuel the fire."

"When is that ?"Albus asked.

"Tomorrow,"Bradley answered."Only good part is we got permission to miss all of our classes."

"Is it really going to be five pages ?"James asked."What are they going to put in it ?"

"Dad 's life history story,"Cedric answered."Plus a few paragraphs on each of us and Mum about our lives. Just a happy article about how we all love each other and Dad 's a folk man. That 's what his campaign manager wants to depict him as seeing that Laurentis does n't ingest any kids."

"And Uncle Percy has a whole lot,"James pointed out.

"Hey, you lot safe spotter out. When Dad told us about this he mentioned that they 're going to do another on the entire Weasley-Potter clan,"Cedric announced.

"Did he say when ?"James asked.

"Around Christmas, I think. Adds to the glad family atmosphere,"Cedric explained.

"Then they ought to consultation Uncle George when he 's had a bit too much eggnog."King James laughed.

"When 's the next argument, anyway ?"Albus asked."moldiness be coming up soon."

"This weekend, actually,"Bradley replied."At the Ministry again. I think this one 's focus on law creation and enforcement or something equally as boring."

"Do we ingest to go to it ?"Lily asked.

"I do n't think so,"Epistle of James answered."Dad said we just had to go to the ones at Hogwarts from now on."

"Speaking of elections, what does everyone think of that politics form ?"Albus asked.

"prof 's very intense,"James said in between bites."But it 's not nearly as awful as the early classes. There 's no O.W.L. in it so it 's my flow favorite."

"Yeah and I think we 're at an advantage,"Cedric said."With our parents being in the Ministry and stuff. A few of my admirer have absolutely no idea about anything to do with the Ministry so they 're having a difficult time."

Professor Embry seemed to be teaching the category in chronological social club and thus was currently lecturing on how the Ministry was organized prior to the dip of Voldemort. Albus thought it was a little boring but he had a feeling it would get more matter to once Embry started on the fall of Voldemort.

"And that 's why the class is necessary,"pink wine said."Think about it. No course of study like this has been taught before, so where did the current Ministry official learn the history of the Ministry ? Where did they study about politics ? They learned it as they went, but did n't live much when they started. That 's a little shivery. People should make love how their country is run."

Albus thought about what Rose had said as he chewed on his paradiddle. She had a full point. Where had they learned it ? Had his Uncle Percy really known nothing about the Ministry when he started ? No, he could n't have. Percy 's own father had been in the Ministry as well. Still, it was weird to imagine about.

Albus mostly listened during the rest of dinner. He always felt slightly unsettled when the election was discussed and he was n't trusted why. Nor could he figure out whether he wanted Walker Percy to win or not. Either way, life would be drastically unlike after Election Day, and Albus liked things the way they were.
******


"Now she wants to change Azkaban ?"Albus asked at breakfast a few days later. The law enforcement argument had taken lieu the night before and the stallion forepart Sir Frederick Handley Page of the prophet was devoted to it."Is n't changing Hogwarts enough ?"

Ministry hopefuls Harry Hotspur Weasley and
Patricia Laurentis debated law creation
and enforcement last Night at the Ministry
of Magic. Like the previous worldwide argument,
sparks flew in this one, with each campaigner
speaking passionately about the matter.

'I 've worked in law creation for years ,'
Weasley began with. 'Since the licking
of Voldemort, I think we can all hold that
things are running smoothly. I intend to
ensure that things stay fresh going the way they
are, with enforcement of Pentateuch that benefit
the entire wizarding community .'

Laurentis took a more free radical stance, in
her response to Weasley 's opinions.

'Sure, the law of nature we have now are sufficient.
I 'm not denying that. But I think we need
to have a salutary hard smell at how they are
enforced, or rather, not enforced. The
statistics are realise. Far more criminals
are being acquitted and even more than are
being released from Azkaban. In my work
at the prison, I see many criminals being
released whom I do not think should be.
Not to mention the break-outs. There are
far too many. Law enforcement motivation to switch .'

Without a doubt, things are only going to
rut up. The candidates seem to have
completely different persuasion on everything
from education to practice of law. The next debate,
which will be on education, will involve spot
at Hogwarts on Saturday, November the 9th at
two in the afternoon.

"Does n't she run Azkaban ?"Matt asked, taking the paper from Albus."So why has n't she changed it already ?"

"Probably does n't throw the king,"blush wine answered."The government minister has to sign off on nearly matter, unless all representatives and officials disagree with him or her."

"So clearly there 's people who do n't gibe with her,"lusterlessness replied.

"Think they 'll ever agree with each other ?"Albus asked.

"Doubt it,"Amanda said."It 's like this in the Muggle elections, too. They 're usually thoroughgoing opponent. What I do n't sympathize is how she 's working under Hartwell when he and your uncle agree on everything."

"Me either,"Rose agreed."supposition we 're watching the next debate."

"Yeah, it 'll be here,"Matt said."Embry will probably make us do an essay on it, too."

"It wo n't be bad,"Rose said."That will be the argumentation that will directly impact us. The election 's in Apr which means we 're going to have over three long time of Hogwarts under whichever candidate is elected. If it 's Laurentis, all those alteration are going to touch us."

Bradley sat down side by side to Albus and threw a copy of magician magazine onto the table."Article 's out."

"That was fast,"Albus said.

"They wanted it to be out right around the argument,"Bradley muttered."You really ought to learn it. It 's awful."

"Rita Skeeter did n't do it, did she ?"Albus asked.

Bradley shook his head."This madam 's almost worse. trustingness me."

rose, Amanda, John the Evangelist, matt, and Kaden crowded around Albus as he flipped through the magazine. The article was in the middle, with the two pageboy being a wide color picture of Uncle Sir Henry Percy, aunty Corrine, and their kid. Percy and Corrine were sitting on their livelihood room couch, with Georgia in between them. All three were smiling and waving. Bradley and Cedric were leaning on either incline of the sofa and the twins were sitting in front of it. Albus flipped the Page and saw a very prolonged article, interspersed with assorted impression of his kinsperson and box seat about each of those five cousins. The article finished up on the observe page.

Upon entering the home of diplomatic minister of Magic
campaigner Percy Weasley 's Southampton home
I am surprised to see that it does not look
like the home of a Ministry candidate. It is
not filled with piles and mound of papers and
Weasley 's military campaign manager is nowhere to be
found. Instead, the storey is cluttered with
toys belonging to the youngest Weasley children,
nine-year-old twins, Samantha and lindy hop. A
denture of fond cookies sits upon the coffee
table and Weasley 's married woman, Corrine, bustles
into the elbow room carrying a tray of tea. Sir Henry Percy
enters as well, followed by the five Weasley
children.

'I prefer to keep the crusade at the Ministry ,'
Sir Henry Percy explains after I ask where his safari
materials are. 'The campaign is work. It is my
job. The house is for my family .'

"Really ?"Rose raised her eyebrows."She should 've seen his study. That 's where all his campaign stuff and nonsense is."

The clause went on to discuss Percy and his fathering skills. Albus grew more and more nauseate as it went on. Percy had and always would be a workaholic, but the clause was painting him to be father of the class. No admiration Bradley had not been pleased when giving Albus the article.

'I could not be more proud of Georgia ,'
Percy said, public speaking of his eldest daughter,
who currently plays as Reserve steward for
the Kenmare Kestrals .'I 've been to a
number of her mates and it is shed light on
that she could feature a long calling in
Quidditch .'

"What a load of dung !"Albus exclaimed."Uncle Percy has never once agreed with Sakartvelo 's Quidditch career."

"Did he actually say that or was that reporter just saying he did ?"matte asked.

"Oh he said it,"Thomas Bradley, who had taken a butt a short ways down the table, answered."Not that he really thinks it."

Albus had had sufficiency of the main article. His centre glanced across the page and rested upon the diminished box that discussed Georgia.

Sakartvelo Weasley, the eldest daughter
of Percy and Corrine, is 18 and
currently plays Reserve steward for
the Kenmare Kestrals .'I love
Quidditch ,'Georgia said when the
topic was brought up. 'It 's freeing
and I look forward to playing for
Kenmare as a wide Keeper one day .'
Empire State of the South 's dream is to play for England.

Next to Georgia 's box there was one for Bradley.

Bradley Weasley, the eldest son of
Percy and Corrine, is currently in
his sixth twelvemonth at Hogwarts. He plays
Beater on Gryffindor 's Quidditch team.
'I like Quiditch, but I do n't require to
play professionally like Empire State of the South. I
want to act upon for Gringotts some day .'

Then there was one for Cedric.

Cedric Weasley is in his fifth part year
at Hogwarts and is the prankster of
the phratry. 'Every Weasley household
has to have someone who will play the
jokes. It 's like a formula or something.
I come up with the comfortably thought when I 'm
with my cousin James [ Potter ] .'Upon
asking Cedric what he wants to do after
Hogwarts, he replied, 'Have n't got a clue.
I think I 'll focalize on getting through
my O.W.L.s first .'

The final examination box was for both Samantha and Lindy.

Samantha and Linda ( Lindy ) Weasley are
nine years old and attend a local
primary school for Muggles. Both twins
ca n't wait to go into Hogwarts in two
years .'I 'm going to be in Gryffindor,
just like my sister and brothers ,'says
Samantha .'I do n't care what house I 'm
in, just as long as I can play Quidditch.
Well, okay, I do n't need to be in Slytherin .'

"That,"Albus began as he set down the cartridge holder,"was the unfit article I 've ever read in my life."

"I shudder to think what the one about our entire family will be like,"Rose muttered.

"Nah,"toilet said."That one will be better because they wo n't hold to micturate as lots up. Albus 's dad saved the all wizarding world. They 'll just play that up."

"It was n't only him,"Albus pointed out."Are citizenry really going to believe all this ?"

Amanda nodded."Yeah, they will. They know nothing about your uncle 's family. for certain, they know all about your dad, but really, how very much do they know about Hotspur ? Not much. They 're going to want to believe it and why should n't they ? They have no idea Percy does n't approve of GA 's Quidditch vocation. It 's the same as in the Muggle worldly concern.

"It would be Nice if multitude voted on prospect who shared their same opinion, but it honestly comes down to who presents the best campaign. hoi polloi are n't going to require mortal in tycoon who has take with his own family."

"That 's stupid,"Kaden replied."gladiolus my kinfolk 's not involved with politics."

"My family is your family,"Albus pointed out.

"But I 'm not related to your Uncle Percy."

"You still telephone him Uncle Sir Henry Percy,"Albus said.

"Because he basically is. He 's just not my origin uncle."

"Well, I can honestly say my family 's not in political relation and I 'm very glad about that,"John said.

Albus could not imagine life history without having family involved with the Ministry, but suddenly he felt slightly jealous of whoremonger. What would it have been like to have parents who were n't famous ?


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this narration ! You guy cable are all amazing. Just as another admonisher, I ca n't reply to reviews while I am rest home for the summertime, but I read every unity one. If you have some sort of query that you need answered about my write up, please use my Ask the Author page at the assembly or send me a PM there.

I have another chapter ready to go so that should be up shortly after I return from vacation next week. Hope everyone enjoys Deathly Hallows 2 this week !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The following week brought a storm so long and so vivid that Herbology and maintenance of Magical Creatures had to be canceled for the 2nd half of the workweek. It was thoroughly unacceptable to take the air outside without being doubled over by the jazz and the younger students could not walk without being blown away. The rain was also so intemperate that one would become soaked within two hour. The students secretly rejoiced, for the special disembarrass periods were helpful to all.

It remained so rainy and windy that even Quidditch practice had to be canceled on Sabbatum. Not that Fred would take in canceled it himself, but Kendrick announced a ban on going out of door until the storm let up. Fred lamented this fact all of Friday evening and contemplated holding a strategy school term in the common room instead, but Heather convinced him just to let it go.

Albus decided to take the opportunity to pass the day at the library, something that John and Kaden reluctantly agreed with. matte and Amanda joined them as well, for they had hatful of homework as well. Rose had mentioned something about tutoring a younger student and run off shortly after breakfast.

The subroutine library was absolutely packed with student, most likely due to the weather and not a burning desire of the Hogwarts population to study, and it took a good five instant for Albus and his admirer to settle an empty table. It was a lot cheap than common and Madam Pince was glaring at each board of students in tour.

Albus set his peck of books down and got to exercise on a Potions essay that was due the following workweek. He had n't started it, of form, but he had a few days to do it. He thought he was ahead of the secret plan anyway since he 'd normally be at Quidditch practice and not even thinking about preparation.

John and Kaden, as usual, were ineffective to get started on their homework right away and were scolded by Madam Pince twice before finally opening their books. Amanda immediately set to solve on the Lapplander essay Albus was working on. Matt cracked open his appeal text but stared at the same page for five moment before Albus noticed that his eyes had glazed over. The October full Moon was the following night, so Albus was not surprised.

"This is deadened oil production,"Saint John muttered after they 'd been studying for an hour."political relation back before Voldemort is pointless. It 's completely different now, so why do we necessitate to bother reading it ?"

"So we do n't progress to the Saame mistake,"Amanda said without looking up from her sheepskin."simpleton, really."

"You 're channeling rose now,"whoremaster stated.

"Someone has to when she 's not here,"Amanda said.

"Would you rather do my soothsaying predictions ?"Kaden asked.

"Yeah !"lav exclaimed."Let 's see, how about you get blown away by the air current while you 're ignoring Kendrick 's rule against going outside ?"

"Perfect. That 'd be something I 'd do,"Kaden said as he scrawled it down."And then I can come down with a awful cold after being outside in the rain so long."

Albus rolled his oculus. The two of them had been insane to use up foretelling in the world-class place, but at least they seemed to enjoy making up their impostor prediction. Albus grinned to himself as King John and Kaden snorted into their parchment, laughing over some ridiculous prediction.

An hour later Albus had finished his essay, as had Amanda. The two of them had moved on to metamorphosis reading. Saint John and Kaden had given up on prep and were planning an elaborate prank that involved a poulet, birdseed, and the Slytherin common room. flatness had been dozing on his charm Scripture. Albus prodded him awake.

"How 's Charms ?"Albus asked, grinning.

"Oh, er ..."matte glanced at his Bible and quickly wiped it with the sleeve of his gown."Great, really. Think I 'll head to the Den, actually."

Albus nodded."I 'll be there in a bit. Want to get some of this meter reading done."

John and Kaden rose to join Matt. They 'd been yelled at two more times and figured they 'd do secure to contrive in the Den.

"postponement,"John said when he was only a few infantry from the table."Is that rose ?"He pointed to a head of shaggy-coated red hair at a nearby tabular array."Who 's she with ? Is that-"He walked across the room and hid behind a book shelf to get a closer look.

Albus craned his head teacher. pink wine was sitting with a small girl. John returned a few irregular later.

"I thought so. It 's that female child we saw with Malfoy and Willinson a few weeks ago."

"Wait, that Slytherin first class ?"Albus asked. He 'd nearly forgotten about her, finally deciding that Scorpius probably was n't up to anything that involved her.

"Yeah, that 's her all right wing,"John said."What 's Rose doing with her ?"

"She 's tutoring soul. moldiness be her,"Albus pointed out.

"Weird. Tutoring a Slytherin,"John replied.

"What 's it matter ?"flatness snapped."No breaker point in standing here watching them. I 'm going to the Den."He hiked his bag up on his shoulder and headed for the door, not waiting for John and Kaden.

"What 's with him ?"John asked.

"You know what 's tomorrow. And honestly, what 's it matter if she 's tutoring that girl ?"Albus asked.

"You thought it meant something that she was with Scorpius but this you do n't give care about ?"

"It 's the Hogwarts tutoring program. I do n't recall you get to curb who you tutor,"Albus explained.

"I suppose."John the Evangelist sighed."well, see you in a bit."

"See you,"Albus said as John Lackland and Kaden left.

Albus and Amanda studied for another minute before joining their friends in the vulture 's Den. John and Kaden were having a serious discussion on how they were going to hold a chicken and Matt was sound asleep on the couch. Albus and Amanda settled down with a deck of Exploding Snap and played beat after round while listening to John and Kaden.

"I still say it 'll be easygoing to have an sometime educatee transfigure something into a wimp,"Kaden said a good twenty minutes later."I 'll bet one of Albus 's cousins will do it."

"Yeah, but I want this to be our prank. We could just go subscribe one of the chickens from Hagrid 's chicken hencoop,"John replied.

"More hazard of getting caught. No one 's going to mistrust if one of Al 's full cousin is practicing their Transfiguration Day. But sneaking a poulet into the castle ? They 're fairly trashy with their squawking."

"Where 's the fun in no chance of getting caught ?"St. John the Apostle asked.

"There will be plentitude of luck of getting caught when we 're getting into the Slytherin common room. Merlin only knows how we 're going to wangle that."

The doorway opened and rosiness walked in."Why are you lot trying to get into the Slytherin vulgar room ?"

"You do n't want to know,"Amanda said."One of their pranks."

rose wine rolled her centre and sat down following to Amanda, picking up a few cards to join in on the side by side round.

"How was tutoring ?"Saint John asked, abandoning the topic of chickens.

"Fine,"Rose answered."Saame as always."

"How did you even get into tutoring ?"John the Evangelist replied.

"Why ? You want to tutor ?"Rose smirked.

John laughed."Definitely not. Just curious."

"Professor Longbottom contacted me over the summer. Fourth years and above can be in the tutoring plan. The professors match you up with untested scholarly person and I 've been tutoring a first off year for a few hebdomad now."

"Yeah,"John said as he got up and walked over to where rosebush was sitting."We saw you earlier. That young woman you 're tutoring ? That 's the Saami fille that Malfoy and Willinson were talking to a few weeks ago."

"hold, that one time that you and Al thought they were up to something ?"

"Yeah that clip. I was just wondering who she was."

Rose sighed."She 's Willinson 's trivial sis. Her gens 's Elsie. She 's really gracious, actually. Quiet, does n't seem much like a Slytherin to me but her whole family unit 's been in Slytherin."

"Oh,"Gospel According to John said."Guess that 's why she was with Willinson and Malfoy. What do you tutor her in ?"

"Bit of everything,"pink wine answered."You lot want to go to dinner ?"

Everyone, except Matt, who just wanted to sleep, agreed and they headed down to the Great student residence. rose wine had been right. null wary about Willinson 's sister tagging after him and Scorpio. Albus 's instincts had been wrong on that occasion.
******


Never in Albus 's aliveness did he ever think there would be a prof who could top prof Binns in terms of oil production classes. But prof Young had done the insufferable. Twice a calendar week Albus and his booster traipsed to Whitney Young 's schoolroom to work on a 1 worksheet. Pres Young did nothing else, except hand out worksheets. Said worksheets did not even take an entire year menstruation to dispatch, resulting in pupil using the remaining time to catch up on other homework, something that Young neglected to notice. The only good part about the class was that Young never assigned homework.

"You think he 'll last the yr ?"matte asked as they were leaving Danton True Young 's classroom.

"Do n't see why not,"Albus answered."Unless Laurentis is elected minister of religion and deems him unfit to teach."

"He does n't really teach,"blush wine pointed out.

"But still, he 's improve than Balladanis,"lusterlessness reasoned.

The rest of Albus 's stratum were comely, although nearly assigned too much homework for his liking, but that was not anything new. As the end of October drew nearer, Albus became very rouse about the kickoff Hogsmeade visit of the year. It would be the maiden sentence that all of Albus 's friends would get to go together and possibly the lowest, given how busy everyone was this year.

Albus nearly did not get to go to Hogsmeade when the day finally arrived. Fred had sprung an extra Quidditch praxis on that day in ordination to defecate up for the missed practice due to the storm. However, the entire squad was outraged and Heather threatened to hex Fred if he did not reverse the practice. Albus was very allay as it was a Nice day and perfect tense for Hogsmeade.

"I 've got to get a new pack of dungbombs,"Kaden said as they walked down the path from Hogwarts to Hogsmeade."Used them up geezerhood ago."

"That the ingroup I sent you over the summertime ?"John asked.

"Sure is. Did n't go too long."

"I need another Skiving Snackbox,"whoremaster announced."And loads of former clobber from Weasleys'."

"And we need to go buy bird cum if we 're going to do that prank,"Kaden reminded him.

Albus and lustrelessness exchanged looks. whoremonger and Kaden had finally agreed to ask one of Albus 's older cousins to transfigure them a chicken that they would then somehow sneak into the Slytherin common room. The birdseed was to sprinkle throughout the place in order to rile the Slytherins even more.

"You two enjoy that,"Rose said."And do n't fare complaining to us when you get a calendar month of detention, because there 's no possible way you can sneak into the Slytherin usual way without getting caught."

"We 'll experience Albus 's cloak, obviously,"Kaden said.

"When are you going to do it ?"Albus asked.

"Around Halloween,"toilet answered.

"idiot,"Rose muttered.

Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes was packed with students. Being the first Hogsmeade weekend, near students had a serious lack of pranking products and needed to origin up. George was behind the counter ringing up purchase after purchase and waved at Albus as he walked in with his friends. They quickly scattered, each heading towards the show that contained what they needed.

Albus wandered towards the Skiving Snackboxes and grabbed two, figuring that he would ask to get out of demurrer at least once and History of Magic a few times a month. whoremonger and Kaden each had about five boxwood and Matt watched with a disgusted look on his face. Since he missed at least a day or two of classes a month due to his lycanthropy, he never understood why anyone would make up themselves ill to do so.

"Should 've gone there close,"John said as he lugged his bags to the Three Broomsticks.

"Yeah, must remember that for next metre,"Kaden agreed."But now, off to have a Butterbeer !"

Albus smiled. His cousin had had Butterbeer before when people snuck it back to the Gryffindor plebeian room, but he 'd never had it in Hogsmeade before.

The triplet broom handle was crowded, but Matt managed to catch a mesa in the dorsum. rosiness set off to get them all Butterbeers. They had been there for about fifteen instant before Scorpius showed up, followed by Garth Octavius, Xavier Goyle, Felix Willinson, and Elsie Willinson. Scorpio surveyed the elbow room and his eye rested upon Albus. Smirking, he sauntered over towards them.

"ceramist,"Malfoy greeted him. He nodded to each of Albus 's acquaintance, glaring at lustrelessness, and then turned back to Albus."I expect you lot are quick to duel adjacent weekend."

"row we are,"Albus answered."The team 's plenteousness prepared. Last practice on Thursday."

"I 'll be there,"Scorpio replied."And I 'll be ready to carry the team on Sat since the rest of our team could n't win a duel against a first year."

"Shut it. Our team is fine,"Albus said coldly.

"Maybe if they had a decently sea captain ..."Scorpio 's vocalisation trailed off."But the prof love anyone whose finis name is Potter or Weasley, just like everyone else in the world."

"They chose based on acquisition,"Albus replied, staring him in the heart."Not list. rose did n't give captain and she 's a Weasley."

"But you 're a Potter and you get everything because your dad is the Boy Who Lived,"Scorpius fuss, ignoring Albus 's comment."But I 've got news for you. Not everyone in the mankind likes that your entire kinsperson runs the wizarding world and that nothing gets done without one of them signing off on it. Not everyone 's going to vote for your uncle, you know."

"Obviously,"Albus replied."And just so you know my family may be involved with the Ministry but it 's only because they want to help people. And they 're only there because mass voted for them."

"No one voted for your dad,"Scorpius muttered. Then he turned to Matt."Or yours."

"People voted for Hartwell, who appointed them,"Albus said."And your dad works in the Ministry, too."

"That 's not the point."Scorpius took a step closer to Albus."The point is that your family might not be running this country much longer. So you 'd better watch out."

Scorpio turned to leave and his friends followed."My family does n't run the world !"Albus shouted after him.

Albus resumed his seat after Malfoy left, not even realizing that he had rose from it in the starting time piazza."He 's just so poor fish !"Albus exclaimed."My family line does n't run the country."

"He 's just jealous,"Amanda said."You got made maitre d' of our team and he hates that. Your dad 's famous and he 's jealous of that."

"His dad 's famous too,"Albus said darkly."Just for the damage reasons."

"And Scorpius probably wishes his dad was notable for the redress ground,"Amanda replied.

"Do n't see why. Having a famous dad is n't always a good thing,"Albus muttered.

"Just ignore him,"Rose said."He 's just trying to get you furious with him."

"Clearly Kendrick 's threats have worn off,"flatness said quietly."I liked it in September when he just form of ignored us."

"It does n't intend he 's going to severalise anyone,"Rose whispered."He 's just looking for a fight."

"It does n't weigh what he 's looking for. One teddy of the tongue is all it takes and my life history at Hogwarts is done."

"And so would his,"Albus reminded his friend."Being at Hogwarts, becoming a manifest wizard, is everything to a Malfoy. He 'd be nothing to a greater extent than a Squib if he were expelled."

"I guess."Matt sighed."What do you think he signify by your family not being in kick of the wizarding domain much longer ?"

"Probably thinks Laurentis is going to win."Albus shrugged."But that wo n't mean much. My dad will still be in charge of the Auror department."

"No,"rosebush whispered."Have n't you been paying care in politics ?"

"Mostly,"Albus said, staring at her."What do you mean ?"

"Okay, I guess Embry has n't really discussed it yet but I read ahead in the rule book. New Ministers can appoint new heads of the department if they want to. virtually do n't because so many new people makes for a bad transition period, but it 's happened a few times. If Laurentis win, she could supervene upon Uncle Harry,"pink wine explained.

"Wait, seriously ?"Albus 's mouth fell open.

rose nodded."Seriously."

"And my dad, too,"Matt said.

"Yeah, yours, too,"Rose replied.

Albus stared at his half-finished Butterbeer. Having a new Minister was one matter, but having new headland of all the departments ? The Ministry would be run in a completely different way. Nothing would outride the same. nobody would replace Harry Potter as Head of the Auror department, though, would they ?

"No."Albus shook his head."No one would replace my dad. He 's a cracking Auror."

"He 's a great Auror, that 's straight,"Rose agreed,"but enceinte is an feeling. Hartwell thinks he 's a great Auror. Uncle Hotspur undoubtedly thinks he 's a great Auror. But if Laurentis gets elected, none of that will matter. All that will matter is whether she think he 's a great Auror. And the question is, does she ?"

Albus swallowed."But that would intend my dad would be out of a job."

"No, he 'd just go back to being a veritable Auror,"rose said."Look, you do n't need to worry about it. I 'm indisputable Uncle Harry knows this."

"They do n't do that in Australia. All the oral sex have terms like the minister. When their term is up, the electric current Minister can supercede them or retain them, but they ca n't get replaced when their terminus is n't up. Unless there 's a outrage and they have a hearing. Like with my dad."

"Does n't seem fair,"Albus said.

"It works both mode. If Uncle Sir Henry Percy wins he 'll get to replace who he wants and he 'll no doubt substitute Laurentis,"Rose pointed out.

"I 'm surprise Hartwell has n't done that,"John the Divine said.

"She 's probably kept subdued about her notion so she could stay fresh her position while running,"Amanda replied.

"So why does n't he supplant her now ?"can asked.

"It would calculate bad. Remember, half of politics is how you look to the public,"Amanda said."Which is why according to the Muggle Ministry, I attend a sequester boarding schooltime in the United state of matter, just in case anyone asks why the diplomatic minister 's niece disappears for nigh of the year. Which they have n't. Yet."

Albus shook his head word."It 's so confound. I do n't know how anyone keeps track of it."

"Luckily we do n't make to,"Kaden said."Let 's go to Honeyduke 's. I think we could all use with some chocolate."


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! Also big thanks to darkladyofslytherin and onestop hpfan18 because this chapter is the solvent of word wars with them. You two are awing ! HPFF now loads properly on my Internet and I am able to answer to reviews, so I 'm slowly working through them. keep open a look out for reaction !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"I say we do it on Allhallows Eve,"Kaden said adamantly while inspecting individual Bertie Bott 's Every look beans and tossing the cruddy ones into a atomic pile on the floor.

"That 's stupid,"John countered."Everyone 's going to be expecting a prank on Halloween. We should do it the day before."

"Why not Saturday ?"Albus suggested, glancing up from the in conclusion minute of arc essay he was working on."Maybe it 'll rattle them enough that they 'll lose the match."

The first Quidditch lucifer of the season, Gryffindor versus Slytherin, was scheduled to get topographic point on Saturday, two mean solar day after Halloween.

"Again, the Prefects and prof will be expecting it,"toilet said.

"Why ?"Albus asked."We 've never pranked them before a match before, have we ?"

"You know, I really ca n't remember."

"Clearly a sign you 've pranked them too much,"Rose pointed out.

Albus and the respite of his supporter were in the Marauder 's Den, attempting to settle on a day to put the wimp and chicken feed in the Slytherin park way. They 'd been arguing for a half time of day and had n't agreed on anything. Albus and Matt, who had been leery on whether to participate in the prank at all, had decided that they would serve as look-outs while John and Kaden snuck into the vernacular room.

"I think Wednesday would be a good option. Wednesday night. We 've got to do it really late, though. The for the first time years have Astronomy on Wednesdays, so we have to wait until they 're back in their dormitories,"Gospel According to John explained."Night before Halloween-"

"By the time you manage to do it after uranology, it 'll technically be Halloween,"Amanda pointed out.

"But not Halloween nighttime,"John said."Pre-Halloween."

"Mischief Night,"Amanda said.

"What ?"Albus asked.

Kaden threw another edible bean onto his pot and started laughing."You 're correctly !"

"Mischief Nox,"Amanda repeated."It 's a Muggle thing. It 's when Muggles pull caper and cause havoc. It 's traditionally the night before Halloween or the nighttime before Guy Fawkes Day, so if you pull this on Wednesday night or early on Thursday dayspring, it 'll be on Mischief Night."

John Lackland grinned."Perfect. Wizards do n't do that, so no one will be expecting a thing."

"Mostly it 's American and Canadian who celebrate before Halloween, though,"Amanda explained.

"I 'd rather do it before Allhallows Eve,"St. John said."We have Astronomy on Tuesdays so the night before Guy Guy Fawkes Day would be harder."

Everyone nodded in agreement, except Rose, who rolled her eyes.

"Do you have everything you need ?"Matt asked.

"Not yet, but we have plans. Tonight I 'm going to mill about by the Slytherin vulgar room under the Invisibility Cloak to hear their password. Wednesday evening we 'll ask Bradley to transfigure us a few Gallus gallus. Then, Al and flatness will tolerate precaution while Kaden and I let them loose in the common room,"St. John explained.

"How in the figure of merlin are you going to keep the chickens calm while you bring them to the donjon ?"pink wine asked.

"Stun them, of course,"Kaden answered."By the sentence they wake up, we 'll be long gone."
***


Wednesday brought with it a huge thunderstorm which Albus saw as a rather minatory omen for procedure Slytherin Gallus gallus as the prank had been dubbed. As the day wore on Albus found himself having doubts about the whole thing. previous pranks had been harmless and had not broken any major school normal, but this one broke at least ten. This could get them worse than a few detentions.

can and Kaden seemed to throw no such reservations. Both of them were particularly gleeful the stallion day and John even returned from soothsaying with a smiling on his face, which never happened. Matt seemed indifferent to the totally matter and acted as usual.

"You do pull in we 'll be getting three hours of sleep, tops, tonight,"lusterlessness said after dinner, while they were attempting to do homework in the vulture 's Den."And that we have History of Magic tomorrow morning."

John sighed."All right wing, maybe that was n't the best bit of planning."

"Clearly not,"flatness agreed.

Albus had a very difficult time getting any homework done while they were waiting for the clip to come. He found himself drawing awful mental picture of Gallus gallus in the perimeter on his Transfiguration essay. No one else was having much fate either. bathroom and Kaden were playing chess and lustrelessness was taking a nap. rose wine and Amanda had holed away in the library, neither one wanting to be associated with the boys that night."We need alibis,"she had told Albus earlier."lack to be seen by as many people as possible so there 's no chance anyone will recollect we were with you."

At one in the break of the day the boys left the marauder 's Den and headed back to the plebeian room, where Omar Bradley would be waiting for them. They encountered no one on their way back and only two or three lingering pupil were in the uncouth room. All of them went to bed within 15 min and the boys were soon alone with Bradley.

Thomas Bradley pulled three pillows out from under one of the couches and set them on a mesa."Three chickens going to be enough ?"

John nodded."I do n't consider we 'll be able to handle any more."

"You lot are either incredibly brave or incredibly stupid,"Bradley said as he pulled out his wand."Even James has n't gotten into the Slytherin common room."

"According to Rose, we 're incredibly stupid person,"trick said."But I think it 's glorious. Has anyone ever gotten into the Slytherin common room ?"

"My dad and Uncle Ron,"Albus said."But not to draw a prank."

John, matte, and Kaden turned to attend at Albus."I 'll explain later,"Albus said.

Bradley muttered an incantation and flicked his wand at each of the pillows. All three turned into crybaby. One Brown one, one whiteness one, and one large Black person and Brown cock. The rooster opened its backtalk to gloat and Omar Bradley immediately silenced all three.

"Figured a rooster would be helpful,"Bradley said."Want me to daze them for you ?"

"Sure,"Albus said.

"Should last about a half time of day and then you 'll let to re-stun them,"Thomas Bradley told them."I 'm going to consider off. Remember, if you get caught, I did n't get the chickens for you. Ca n't give another detention."

"Got it,"Albus assured him. Bradley took off to the dorm room and Albus turned to his friends. can was holding the rooster and Kaden was holding the two chickens."Back to the Den ?"

The boys spent the adjacent two hours in the Marauder 's Den, playing Exploding Snap and re-Stunning the Gallus gallus every half hour. Shortly after three in the morning time Albus re-stunned the chickens one more meter and then threw the Invisibility Cloak over all four of them.

It was very difficult for all four boys to walk under the Invisibility Cloak.
beingness fourth years, they were all a lot bigger than they had been in second year when Albus had first received the Cloak. In fact, Albus could n't even commend the last metre all four of them had gone under it at once. Albus in particular had grown quite a few column inch over the summertime and was now as marvellous as John. The two of them had to walk with their knee bent grass to ensure their feet would n't indicate.

The walk was uneventful. The male child did not even see Peeves or any of the ghosts out for a nighttime time saunter ( or float, which would probably be the more earmark terminal figure ). lusterlessness tripped going down the steps once and nearly dropped a crybaby, but since the corridors were empty, no one heard the sound.

Once they had reached the entrance to the Slytherin usual room John and Kaden slipped out from under the Cloak and scurried over to the door. lavatory whispered the parole and it opened. Both male child slipped inside and shut the door behind them.

Albus and Matt stood against the wall a little mode down the corridor, giving them a view of the stairs as well as the corridor. Neither of them said a word while John and Kaden were pulling their japery because Filch 's cat had turned up and was pacing in front of them.

The next five minutes felt like an timeless existence and Albus was very alleviate when John and Kaden exited the unwashed room and hurried back under the Cloak. John 's bag, which had contained the chicken feed, was now considerably lighter. Neither boy said a word to Albus and flatness as they walked back to Gryffindor tower, for fearfulness that someone would hear them.

They were walking down the arcsecond floor corridor when Albus heard stride behind him. He turned and saw Professor Young walking slowly towards them, staring at the ceiling as he went. He appeared to be in bass thought about something but then stopped and stared right where Albus and his Friend were. They were n't being quiet enough.

All four boys froze and looked at each other. Kaden grabbed all three of their jumpers and pulled them through the nearest threshold, while Young happened to be looking the other way. Once inside, Albus noticed that they were in a loo. A lady friend 's loo. And the floor was soaked.

"pigeon hawk,"Albus muttered."We 're in Moaning myrtle 's bathroom."

As if on cue, there was a splash and then Albus felt the unpleasant sensation of a ghost floating through him.

"I know you 're there."Myrtle giggled."Harry thrower had one of those cloaks, too. You might as well take it off."

Albus reluctantly took off the Cloak. Cy Young would n't be going into a miss 's toilet anyway.

"Ooo !"myrtle shrieked."Harry Potter 's son ! What brings you to my throne ?"She giggled again and batted her eyelashes.

"Er ..."Albus muttered, feeling very uncomfortable.

"We were just leaving,"toilet announced as he threw the Cloak over all four of them once more.

Thankfully Professor Young had left by the time they exited the loo. The remainder of the journey back to Gryffindor was as uneventful as the trek down to Slytherin.

The common elbow room was deserted when they returned under the disapproving public eye of the Fat Lady, who had not been pleased when they woke her up. John and Kaden immediately started laughing when they took the Cloak off.

"epic poem !"Kaden exclaimed."There was no one in the park elbow room and we spread the provender and put the chickens each on their own couch and left. The Slytherins are going to sustain a rude awakening in a few hours."

"So are we,"lusterlessness said as he looked at his vigil."Almost four. We 'll get three and a half hr sleep if we 're lucky."

The boys headed back to their student residence, but Albus was not tired yet. Adrenaline was still racing through his system. They had n't gotten caught. Yet. Would there be any way to trace the chickens back to the four of them ? Only if somebody saw them, but if anyone had seen them they would have gotten them in bother right field then and there, would n't they sustain ? Albus pushed the thought from his chief. He settled into bed and thought about the reactions from the Slytherins the come morning.

Bilius 's alarm clock woke Albus up at eight the adjacent morning and he rolled over and went back to sleep. He woke up once more with twenty dollar bill proceedings left until history of legerdemain and had to skip breakfast. Albus woke Matt and toilet up and the three of them ran through the corridors in order of magnitude to name it to class on time.

They arrived with two instant to dispense with and the room was filled with laughter and cackle. The Hufflepuffs and Gryffindors were clearly excited about something and Albus had a feeling he knew what it was.

Albus sat down and Bilius turned around in his arse, grinning at Albus."You three missed breakfast. Too bad. The Slytherins are all turnover, fuming about chickens and muttering about getting revenge. Turns out individual snuck a rooster and two chickens into their common room terminal night and spread chicken provender around. Apparently their common way was a mess and it took all of their Prefects to bedaze the volaille and bring them to Hagrid. wish I knew who pulled it off."

Albus attempted to feign impact and excitement."Seriously ? That 's brilliant. Does anyone recognise who did it ?"

"Nope,"Bilius answered."All they know is that it was n't a Slytherin."

"They 'll never see it out then. That 's three-quarters of the school to go through."

"And that 's what makes it so brilliant."

prof Binns floated through the chalkboard and began to drone on about some sort of goblin rebellion. Albus rested his head on his hand and began to drowse off. Binns would n't even notice.

At lunch, following August 6, everyone was still talking about the chickens. The Slytherins were sullen and were glaring at all the other household mesa. The teachers did n't appear at all upset about the unanimous thing, probably because the chickens had n't done that a great deal damage. nothing that could n't be easily repaired with the motion picture of a wand.

"Six in the morning !"Albus overheard a Slytherin mutter as he walked past the Gryffindor table."Can you opine ? And the morning after we 'd been on the pitch for three hours."

Albus smirked behind his forkful of stew. If the prank had messed with the Slytherins'training schedule, all the in effect. Albus had finally begun to relax. It did n't seem like they were going to get in trouble after all.

As Albus walked to the keep with John, Matt, Rose, and Amanda he realized that his nap in history of Magic was most definitely wearing off. He was feeling the debilitation and was very well-chosen for the rid point after potions. But he did n't dare jump potions because he was quite excited to hear Malfoy talk about the chickens.

During this finicky class they were finishing up an engorgement solution that they had started on Tuesday. While Shrinking solution was a rather simple potion that they had learned in their first yr, its counterpart was more difficult and postulate stewing for forty-eight time of day before the final ingredients could be added.

Albus retrieved all the necessary fixings while his partner, Limbert, located their potion in the cupboard. Limbert, who was usually very insouciant about everything, was scowling and glared at Albus as he joined him at their table.

Just as Albus was beginning to chop his celery root, Malfoy appeared in figurehead of the tabular array. Albus looked up from his plant and looked Malfoy in the eye.

"Potter,"Malfoy muttered."You would n't bechance to lie with which idiot Gryffindor put chickens in our vulgar room, do you ?"

Albus snorted."Chickens, Malfoy ? I 'd find out something about that."

"Bloody birds,"Limbert muttered as he began to powderize the rat quick temper they were supposed to put into their cauldron."Crowing at six in the bloody morning. feeding crybaby provender all over the common elbow room. Getting their feathers and other poppycock everywhere ...."

"What he said,"Malfoy replied."detail is, one of your lot got into our vulgar room and I want to know who."He folded his weapon system across his chest.

"Was n't any of 'my lot'as you say,"Albus answered, hoping that Malfoy could n't hear his heart pounding in his chest."We ca n't get into your common room. Do n't receive the parole. And even if we did, why would we want to ? It 's probably covered in snake slime."

"Well it was n't a Slytherin if that 's what you 're implying. And I doubt it was a Ravenclaw or a Hufflepuff. A Ravenclaw would n't do something that stupid and a Hufflepuff would n't be able to forecast out how-"

Albus rose from his professorship."That 's rude. I know lot of Hufflepuffs that are overbold than you, Malfoy. And they 're decent people, too."

"son, get to work now. I believe your potion is overflowing in it 's cauldron, Malfoy,"Slughorn said, gesturing to flatness and Malfoy 's cauldron, which was indeed overflowing. Matt was frantically waving his baton at it, trying to get it to stop.

"Oh for Merlin 's sake,"Malfoy muttered and stalked off towards his own table.

Albus breathed a sigh of reliever and continued to chop his celery radical. Limbert retrieved another rat lien, as the one he had been using was now hopelessly destroyed. He did n't speak to Albus for the remainder of the class except for the occasional"mountain pass the tongue"or"turn down the flame ”.

Following potions Albus, mat, and toilet immediately went upstairs to the. marauder 's Den to take a much needed nap. Rose went to Muggle work and Amanda went to the depository library. Albus fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow and did not awaken up until John swatted him with a pillow when it was time for dinner.

The Slytherins were still complaining about the volaille during dinner and Albus and his supporter giggled every time they heard something about them. About halfway through dinner, professor Kendrick rose from his derriere. Albus turned to look at Matt, who shrugged. Kendrick rarely made dinner speeches when it was n't the offset or end of term.

"Just a few announcements,"Kendrick said once the Great Asaph Hall quieted down."offset, I am sure you are all aware of the prank that took place in the Slytherin commons way last night. I, nor do any of the teachers, have any approximation who is responsible, but if we do find out, be aware that those responsible will be punished. Entering another star sign 's common room is not tolerated and all student should take this as a warning, in case they have been inclined to do so themselves. Slytherins, please be advised that your password has been changed. If you are not aware of it, delight see a Prefect.

"Second. Next weekend Hogwarts will host a few Ministry officials including the Minister of conjuring trick, the Head of Magical Law Enforcement, the Head of the Auror Department, the capitulum of the section for the rule and Control of Magical tool, as well as a few of the Minister 's closest consultant. In addition, both candidates for Minister will be here as well. They will arrive Friday night and stay until Sunday morning. Saturday they will be debating education here in the Great Hall.

"All educatee will throw the hazard to watch the public debate by a random drawing since we can not lodge all of you in addition to the Ministry functionary and members of the general population that will be attending. The ease will listen via wireless in a few classroom. All students are required to listen or watch. more than data about that, such as how to determine out if you 've been selected to find out and what naming you will experience on the public debate, will be distributed by Professor Young in your politics class.

"I expect you all to behave yourselves and demonstrate to our Ministry that this is a space of learning. You are all representing Hogwarts, whether you are educatee, teachers, or staff. You will not force japery, especially not like the one that was pulled last night. You will respect the Ministry representative. I will make you foster information next week. In the meantime, offset thinking up a few doubtfulness to ask our candidates in case they have clip to do a question and answer session."Kendrick resumed his seat.

"Blimey, I 've never seen Kendrick act so serious,"John said quietly.

"Can you blame him ?"Rose asked."Remember what Laurentis said about Hogwarts ? She all but said he was n't running the school properly. If she wins, chances are he 's out of a job. He 's got to put on a good show adjacent week if he 's got any Leslie Townes Hope of staying here if she wins."

"That 's insane !"Albus shouted. A few commencement years looked over at him and he lowered his interpreter."I mean, Kendrick took over as headmaster when McGonagall left and even before that he helped reconstruct the place. How can she sack someone who helped reconstruct Hogwarts ?"

"She ca n't if she 's not elected,"Amanda said."We just have to hope your uncle wins."

"Never thought I 'd say it, but I agree,"Albus replied."Empire State of the South and Bradley and Cedric wo n't be happy but can you suppose what Hogwarts would be like if Laurentis won ?"

"I ca n't,"Matt said."No one can because no one knows what she wants to do to change it."

"surmise we 're going to obtain out future Saturday,"Amanda said."Think any of us will get to learn it ?"

"We will,"Albus answered, gesturing to Matt and himself."Our dads are two of the interpreter, so I bet we 'll have to sit with our families."

"I hope I get to,"Amanda said."It 's really riveting, wizard political relation. In some ways it 's completely the same as Muggle politics, only with deception involved. Really shows that we 're all people."

"Me too,"Rose agreed.

"You can receive my ticket if I get one,"can told her."It 's going to be severe to doze off if I 'm in the Same room."

"Lapplander here,"Kaden said.

pink wine rolled her eyes."You lot done eating ? Anyone up for spending the eve in the library ?"

The boy reluctantly agreed. They had neglected their homework the previous night due to the prank and had multiple naming due the next day that they had not even started on. Albus thought longingly of his bed in Gryffindor column and then resigned himself to the fact that he 'd be in the subroutine library until curfew.


A/N : Thanks to all who have read and reviewed this ! You guys are awesome. Big thanks to all my writing friends that I word war with. There are now too many to identify individually, but they are awesome.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The day after Halloween dawned with a violent thunderstorm, one that Albus hoped would pass along before Saturday, when he would have to present Slytherin on the Quidditch pitch. Albus was feeling much better after a seemly dark 's sleep, although he was dreading having to go to History of conjuring trick firstly thing in the first light again. Whose undimmed thought was it to give them that course of study two mornings in a row ?

The post owls arrived as Albus was serving himself some eggs and he scanned the air for his fellowship owl. He did n't see it and resumed piling his plate with food. His parents only occasionally sent him post now that he was in fourth year and no longer needed a letter from them every other day. However, Albus did see his Uncle Harry Hotspur 's scream owl making a beeline towards Cedric, who was sitting across from Albus. Cedric set his forking down and untied the letter from the owl 's leg. The owl dipped his pecker in Cedric 's succus and then took off.

Albus watched as Cedric read the varsity letter and saw his font go from dim curiosity to slight repulsion and then finally extreme point disgust. Walker Percy 's letter of the alphabet were always matter to and it seemed as this one was no exception.

"Unbelievable !"Cedric shouted.

"What is it ?"James asked as he snatched the alphabetic character out of Cedric 's mitt."Is he making you sit following to him while he debates side by side week ?"

"Worse !"Cedric exclaimed."He thinks I was the one who put the chickens in the Slytherin common room !"

"Seriously ?"James asked as he settled down to show the letter."Let 's see ... Seriously disappointed in you ... taught you effective than this ... stunts like these could spite my chances for a win in Apr ... must get wind to think about the moment of your actions ... twenty percent yr is for studying for your O.W.L.s ... clock time to grow up ..."

"See ?"Cedric said as he stabbed his bacon with a bit too often military group."He really believes I did it. And with no evidence !"

"Oh now he 's bringing up your bit from that article. The part where you mentioned that you like pulling antic. Oh and now he 's brought me into it ... Oh wait, hey ! He 's going to tell my parents that I was in on it too !"James slammed the missive down."No way they 'll believe him without proof though."

"Which he has none of. Did you get to the part where he 's owling Kendrick, too ?"Cedric asked.

"Kendrick ca n't do anything without proof,"King James I said.

"Yeah but our records are n't exactly fairly,"Cedric pointed out."Merlin, I wish I 'd thought up this prank. It was history worthy. I mean getting into the Slytherin common room ? I 've been dreaming about doing that since before kickoff year."

"I wish we knew who did it. I 'd like to get some tips,"James added."They 're going to go down as Hogwarts legends."

Albus hoped that his tempestuous blushing was n't noticeable. He could not believe that Percy actually believed Cedric pulled the clowning without any grounds. Cedric could n't get in fuss without evidence, could he ? If he did, Albus would feel atrocious. He already felt dreaded that Percy had even had the face to impeach Cedric for something that Albus and his friends did, something Cedric had no piece of.

"We 've just got to figure out who did it,"St. James decided."To shed light on our names."

Cedric nodded."Wo n't be that tough. No frivolity can be done without evidence left behind. It 's impossible to do in this place. We 'll look for cue around our own common room because I think the Slytherins are right. It was a Gryffindor."

"We should sing to the ghosts, too,"James said."They wander at all hours."

"Right,"Cedric agreed."Best be off to class now, though.

Albus turned to john after his sidekick and cousin had left the tabular array. John and Matt had both been sitting close enough to Cedric and James to get word the entire conversation. Both boys were pale than usual and Albus was trusted he was as well.

"Vinca minor saw us,"Matt whispered."We 'll be number one on their suspect list."

"D'you think your own chum would turn us in ?"John asked.

Albus laughed."Of course he would. He 's my brother."

"Good distributor point,"bathroom muttered."What are we going to do ?"

"Bob Hope myrtle does n't say anything,"Albus said.

"That 's it, we 're doomed."lustrelessness sighed.

"On the plus English, we 'll be Hogwarts fable,"John said.

"Tell that to my parents,"matte replied.

Albus thought about Saint James and Cedric 's quest to figure out who pulled the crybaby prank during the entirety of History of Magic. They had n't left any traces behind except for talking to Myrtle. And even that only proved that they were out of bed at four in the morning, not that they 'd left chickens in the Slytherin park way. indisputable, there might take in been random chicken feathers in the vernacular way that morning but the mansion elves would experience already cleaned them up. Then there was Bradley.

Bradley. Albus 's stomach dropped. Would Bradley rat out Albus in order to carry through his own brother from possible trouble ? Albus liked to think not, especially since doing so would criminate Bradley as well. But it was potential that Omar Bradley would request Cedric to leave him out of it when he told Kendrick in comeback for the information in the showtime space. Albus rubbed his forehead. It was all so confusing and there were too many possibilities.

Matt and John looked equally disturbed by the possibility. Both male child were sitting completely still, staring at Professor Binns but not looking at him. Matt was absentmindedly doodling in his notebook. John was twirling his quill around in his hired hand and had splattered ink all over himself and his account of magic book.

Albus was grateful that they had Care of Magical Creatures next, despite the steady downpour. They would be able to speak. Hagrid was currently teaching them about unicorns and this finical deterrent example he had an factual unicorn for them to maintain and interact with. Luckily for Albus, John, and matte, unicorns did not like boys and thus had an self-justification to hang back and talk.

"The only way they 're going to get hold out is if they talk to Omar Nelson Bradley and Thomas Bradley tells them,"Albus said as they pretended to take line on the unicorn, which was currently surrounded by the girls of the class.

"Or if they talk to Myrtle and put the cue together,"Matt pointed out.

"What clues ?"John asked."We did n't leave anything behind."

"Not that you know of. But they were right when they said nothing can be done at Hogwarts without mortal knowing about it. For all we know there was another shade lurking by the Slytherin vulgar room while we were there that we did n't notice,"Matt explained."Or the fact that we were n't in the common way last night-"

"We 're rarely in the common elbow room,"whoremonger said."Not since we found the Marauder 's Den."

"True. They could also talk to Bilius or Ethan and get hold out that we got back at four in the sunrise. Ethan woke up when we got back and asked what we were up to, commend ?"Matt said.

"That would n't recite them anything more than Vinca minor would,"Albus replied as he scrawled a few notes about how the unicorn was pawing at the ground.

"What if they find feathers or chicken feed or something ?"Matt asked.

"That will consume all been cleaned up by now. The house elves plum everyday,"John said."I think Albus is right on. The only way they 'll know is if they talk to Bradley. Or if they just assume and ask us about it. Al, are you going to be able to lie to them if they ask you ?"

"Er ..."Albus 's voice trailed off. He knew how lots of a rotten liar he was."To be honest ? Probably not."

Nobody said anything for a few minutes. Each boy pretended to be absorbed in taking billet on the unicorn.

"There 's naught we can do, then,"lusterlessness finally said."We ca n't stop them or tell them not to investigate because that would calculate funny. All we can do is wait and hope they do n't figure it out."

Albus nodded. Matt was completely ripe, of form. But what Albus did n't say was that James and Cedric would work out it out. They were the school trickster and for the first time they 'd been out-pranked. The two were the schoolhouse 's joke experts and could easily follow the lead that would lead them right to their own sidekick and cousin.
******


The trigger-happy thunderstorm that had plagued Hogwarts the day before cleared up by Saturday daybreak and the conditions could not feature been better for Quidditch. It was sunny, with slight cloud top and little fart. The temperature was mild for November. weather condition would not be a factor in this Quidditch match. No, the squad that won would win solely based on their acquirement.

The Hogwarts universe, both students and professors alike, were very excited for the match. house Quidditch had been suspended the previous year in Order for the Quidditch and Dueling challenger with the schools from New House of York and Australia, although the final exam equal in the Quidditch upshot had been a catastrophe. Everyone at Hogwarts was make for things to go back to formula and that included business firm Quidditch.

normal also included the taunt that went on between the Gryffindors and Slytherins at breakfast right before the catch. Malfoy informed Albus that he needed to watch out else he obtain himself in the Hospital flank for days. Albus ignored this because Malfoy was n't even on the Slytherin team and did n't have sufficiency Quidditch skill to be on a children 's team. He tried his substantially to ignore the taunting from the actual Slytherin team as well, but still found his stomach was a bit too nauseous to eat much more than toast.

The team gathered around Fred in the changing room shortly before the match, fix to hear his first team words.

"I fully believe we can win this,"Fred began."Our recitation have gone very smoothly and it feels like Janie has played with us for long time rather than only a few week. Slytherin plays dirty, though, so watch yourselves. They also have two new players, a pursuer and a Beater, whereas we only have one. The new pursuer is a second year and the new Beater is a third yr, so I do n't mean we 'll have much takings there. I 've seen them practice and they still do n't work as a seamless team like we do. Just go out there and play like we did two geezerhood ago and we 're sure to win."

The team stood up and followed Fred out onto the sales talk. The terra firma was soft beneath Albus 's feat, but not too cloudy, which would take a crap for a good kick off. He stood in between Heather and James IV while Fred went to rock manpower with Fielding, Slytherin 's captain.

Oteski shouted his desire for a clean match and then the two chieftain crunched each early 's hands. Oteski released the Bludgers and snitcher and then tossed the Quaffle into the air. Albus kicked off from the ground and flew towards the Quaffle, which had unfortunately been caught by Fielding.

"And they 're off !"Lord Todd Smith announced."showtime star sign mate in two years due to the shift last year, during the contention with the other schools. Both squad have some new faces this year. Slytherin has a new Chaser, second class Marshall Belby, and a new Beater, third year Devon Fanny Wright. Gryffindor has a new Keeper, fourth year Janie Creevey ...."

Albus tore his attention from smith as the boyfriend Gryffindor began to announce the names of the rest period of the players. Leaning forward on his broom, Albus soared to the other side of the sales talk, where Fielding was attempting to throw the Quaffle into one of Gryffindor 's goal posts.

"Spectacular save by Creevey !"Smith shouted."Looks like she 's going to be an splendid Keeper for Gryffindor. Gryffindor now in self-will. Heather Weasley in possession, passes to Albus Potter ...."

Albus caught the Quaffle, wedged it under his arm, and sped down to the other side of the pitch. He dodged two of Slytherin 's chaser but was hit by a Bludger sent from Wright and dropped the Quaffle. It was intercepted by Peyton Haines.

Albus swore loudly and tag Haines as he turned around and headed towards Gryffindor. Fred managed to catch the Quaffle after Haines was hit by a Bludger and tossed it back to Albus.

This time Albus made it to the Slytherin goal posts and feigned right before sending the Quaffle soaring through the go forth hoop.

"account !"Smith announced."Albus Potter scores the first goal of the match. Ten point to Gryffindor !"

The remainder of the peer continued in the same fashion, with the Quaffle continuously exchanging hands, rendering it very hard for Smith to observe up with the commentary. Gryffindor maintained a near invariant account of twenty points ahead of the Slytherins. Albus scored two Thomas More destination and assisted on five more. The Slytherin pursuer looked more than and more disgusted as the match wore on.

An hour and a one-half into the couple Albus saw James abandon his position above the rest of the players and fly towards the earth. huntsman Pucey, Slytherin 's seeker, followed.

"Looks like Potter has seen the Snitch !"Smith exclaimed.

Albus watched while flying the Quaffle to the Slytherin end Wiley Post. James had his arm outstretched towards a glittering object when Devon Wright slammed her Beater 's bat towards a nearby Bludger. But the Bludger suddenly soared upward, leaving cypher in between the bat and James 's leg. Devon 's bat collided with James IV 's leg, sending him sprawling onto the ground. Albus stopped where he was.

The entire bunch gasped, with the elision of the Slytherins, who were cheering. Pucey was flying around the lurch holding the struggling Snitch in his outstretched hand. Albus ignored this and flew directly to James I, who was clutch his leg on the ground.

Albus abandoned his heather once he landed and hurried towards James. He was surrounded by Madam Pomfrey, Professor Oteski, professor Kendrick, prof Longbottom, the eternal sleep of the Gryffindor squad, and surprisingly, Devon.

Albus paused to search at the girl. She was small, like most secondly years are, but powerful. Her muddied blonde hair was in a messy bun and her face was streaked with tears. As Albus got closer, he could pick up that she was whispering"I 'm grim"over and over again.

"Foul !"Heather shouted."That 's a foul ! I want a rematch !"

"Let 's get James IV to the Hospital Wing and then we 'll worry about a replay,"Neville said as brothel keeper Pomfrey conjured a stretcher.

"Finally, someone with some sensory faculty around here,"madam Pomfrey muttered."All of you, out of the way !"

The push quickly dispersed as Madam Pomfrey guided the copestone towards the castle, followed by the gathered professor. After a few minutes, Professor Patil ordered the rest of the students to get back to their common rooms. Albus walked back to the castle with his squad, who were heading straight to the infirmary Wing.

St. James was resting once they got there, his leg bandaged but no longer cave in. He no longer looked to be in bother, but looked like he wanted to hex the integral Slytherin team. Madam Pomfrey appeared in movement of them before they could reach King James 's bed.

"Ten minutes,"she said."That 's all."

"Are we getting a rematch ?"was the first thing out of Saint James the Apostle 's sassing."No one will tell me anything."

"They have n't said anything yet,"Fred replied."How 's the leg ?"

"fine, now. Just a little painful. Madam Pomfrey said I can leave tomorrow good afternoon,"William James told them."We better get a replay. That was a foul. I was two seconds from catching the Snitch when that new Beater went and hit me with her bat ! Who does she think she is ? Does n't she fuck the rules of Quidditch ? Or is that how Slytherin 's training their participant these days ?"

"She was going for a Bludger,"Albus explained."You probably could n't see it because she was behind you, but there had been a Bludger. It flew up at the last s and she accidentally got your leg."

"How do they know that ?"St. James the Apostle asked."She might 've made that up."

"Everyone saw it,"Albus said quietly.

"It 's true,"Heather agreed."I do n't know if they 'll give us a rematch."

The room access to the Hospital Wing opened, revealing the Beater in question. She walked tentatively inside and stopped when she saw the stallion Gryffindor team. brothel keeper Pomfrey greeted her and they spoke in voices too hushed to take in before she walked slowly over to James 's bed.

"I know you probably hate me and I do n't blame you,"she whispered."But I really am sorry. It really was an accident. I swear it. It was my first match."

Albus glanced at the residue of his squad. Their looks of discombobulation mirrored his own thoughts.

"Er, well, thanks for the apology, I guess,"James said.

"Is your leg ok ?"she asked.

"It 's fine now,"James replied.

Devon reached into her gown and pulled out a bar of Honeyduke 's chocolate. She handed it to James, her eyes staring at his bed and not meeting his glance the entire fourth dimension."Here,"she whispered.

"Er, thanks,"James said as he took the chocolate.

"Um, I 'm going to go now. Bye,"Devon said and turned to run from the ward, before any of the Gryffindor team had sentence to respond.

"That was strange,"James muttered after the doors had slammed shut."Anyone fancy some chocolate ?"

"She 's got a crush on you,"Ryan announced.

"Does not,"King James argued.

"Have we ever had a Slytherin apologize for injuring one of us before, let alone give us chocolate ?"Fred asked."I 'm with Ryan on this one."

"Well clearly some of them have consciences,"Albus replied."But yeah, she likes you."

"She 's twelve,"King James I said flatly.

"young woman mature faster than blokes."Heather smirked."So, actually, she should be just about right hand for you."

"Shut up,"Jesse James muttered."Not sharing my burnt umber anymore."

"Ten minutes are up !"Madam Pomfrey announced as she returned to James 's bed bearing a tray that contained a few tight looking potions."And these are for you, James."

Albus and the relaxation of the team bade Epistle of James goodbye and left the Hospital Wing. They walked up to Gryffindor Tower together, but parted once they entered the common room. Albus found his friends at a table near the door to the dorm room and sat down to explain the entire Devon Fanny Wright thing.

"So she was actually upset that she had broken James 's leg ?"trick asked.

"And she apologized ?"Matt added.

"And gave him chocolate ?"Kaden continued.

Albus nodded."Strange, is n't it ?"

"Very,"John agreed."I 'm surprised she 's on the squad. Is n't it a requirement for the Slytherin team to be a fan of violence ?"

"She might not be on a lot longer, mightily ?"Matt asked.

"It was an accident,"Albus said."I already said that. The rest of the team saw it and so did half the professors. So there 's probably not going to be a rematch either."

"That 's not honest,"King John muttered.

"It 's only the showtime equal,"Albus pointed out."flock more time to gain those decimal point back. And their Seeker is awful anyway. He could n't have caught that stool pigeon if King James I had n't have been hit."

Albus, Matt, and John spent the remainder of the afternoon discussing Quidditch and Gryffindor 's probability of winning the Quidditch Cup. They factored in the skill level of all the player on all the star sign and the points earned so far, along with the possible weather condition impediment that were surely to come. Kaden paid attention, but did n't kick in much except for the occasional comment about how something was different in football. Amanda did the same, make unnecessary for the football game scuttlebutt. Rose sighed and dug a book out of her bag and register it until they had finished.

Professor Oteski was at supper that night, which was a rare natural event due to the fact that he has a wife and Cy Young children in Hogsmeade and normally was only at the castle for classes and Quidditch mates. Towards the end of the repast he rose, rendering the total Hall silent.

"The other professor and I have reviewed the events at today 's match,"Oteski began."We 've taken into business relationship a few take pupil'observations-"

"He interviewed me,"Fred said.

"-along with the prof'. I have come to the conclusion that the act of a Slytherin Beater hitting Gryffindor 's quester with her Beater 's Bat was an unfortunate accident. No disciplinary activity will be taken against her, nor will a rematch be taking place."He resumed his seat.

All of Gryffindor groaned while Slytherin rejoiced. Albus glanced over at their table and saw that Devon Wright was the only when Slytherin not shouting in exhilaration. Instead she had her head on her hand and was picking at her dinner party. She was a very odd Slytherin, that was for sure.

"I really did n't think there 'd be a rematch,"Fred said."But mind, we can still win. Losing the beginning couple does n't mean we 'll lose the Cup."

"person 's going to deliver to tell James,"heather mixture replied."He wo n't be pleased. I 'm fairly sealed he can matter the number of meter he has n't caught the sneak on one hand."

Albus thought back to the time James River had lost a match against Linda the vampire and hid in the shriek hovel. Luckily his brother had come a long way from that and would not feel the need to hide after missing the Snitch.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! I 'm back at schooling now, so I wo n't be writing as a lot. But I have a few chapters saved up, so I 'm hoping to update frequently for the future month at to the lowest degree.

If you are enjoying this story ( or any of my stories ), head over to the forums and nominate one for a Dobby award ! Be sure to read the rules before posting. : )


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was very eased that he was not given the task of telling St. James the Apostle that there would not be a rematch. Fred, being the police captain, took that job for himself and the rest of the team merely went with him. James was understandably disquieted, but did n't train the news nearly as badly as Albus would have expected. Perhaps he was maturing, if even a small total. On Sunday, James was released from the infirmary flank and life at Hogwarts returned to normal if only for a few days.

After a double class of potions and single family of Transfiguration on Tuesday, Albus and his friends had politics and this was the day where they would find out who would get to sit in the Great Hall during the debate on Saturday. The Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs were understandably more chatty in the minutes before prof Embry began class. Most of the scholarly person hoped that they would get to serve the debate, with the exception of John and a few of the Hufflepuffs. Albus and mat would be attending it either way, so they doubted either of them would be picked. rose wine had also found out that since she was Sir Henry Percy 's niece, she would also get to attend no affair what.

"settle down, go under down,"Embry said once the clock struck three. He smiled and then quickly took attendance."I 'm very glad to see how wind up you are for Saturday 's argumentation. It 's very energize to see young people so worry in political relation. Since I know none of you will pay attention during form unless I announce who gets to attend before I begin, I will announce them now."

The class immediately began whispering until Embry located a piece of parchment on his desk and cleared his throat."Now, a few of you are able to attend the debate without being chosen. lustrelessness Eckerton and Albus Potter, since both your Fatherhood are straits of section at the Ministry you will be capable to assist. Rose Weasley, since you are related to one of the prospect, you may attend as well. And not to concern, everyone else, they will not charter away spots from the regular student body.

"One boy and one daughter were picked randomly from each year, for each business firm. So eight scholar from each class were chosen total. For Hufflepuff the lucky two are Olivia cost and Ronald Bones."

"Yes !"Ronald shouted. He was a rather loud, blonde haired boy, who reminded Albus a lot of Kaden. Olivia just smiled. She was quiet, but as one of Hufflepuff 's Beaters, was quite forceful.

"And for Gryffindor we have Ethan Kesse and Marina Jordan-Bell,"Embry continued.

Both let out enraptured cry and the quietus of the course clapped before everyone settled down. All four winning student were still grinning when Embry began speaking once more.

"Congratulations to all four of you. This will not be the only public debate to take position at Hogwarts and for the next one, different students will be chosen. Now, on Sat, you are to report to the Great Hall at ten o'clock in the morning. The debate will begin at eleven. You will give your name to whichever professor is waiting by the threshold and then a Prefect will show you to where you are supposed to sit. Same goes for you, mat, Albus, and Rose."

Embry set the lambskin down on his desk and smiled as he walked closer to the board of his students."Now, what Professor Kendrick has not told you yet, because it has only just been finalized, is that both candidates will be hosting two joint question and answer sessions. These will be for bookman and Hogwarts stave only. The same students chosen to attend the debate will be able to see the question and answer academic term. It will necessitate place at three in the Great Radclyffe Hall. Please arrive at two-thirty.

"Everyone else will be listening to the argument on the radio receiver. Fourth year Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs will be in the Transfiguration of Jesus classroom. Please theme there by ten-thirty. Everyone, no matter whether they are attending the disputation or listening on the wireless are expected to drop a line a foot long essay on which candidate you thought was more successful in making their stop. It will be due at the beginning of future workweek 's class."

The stallion class groaned at the quotation of the essay. Embry ignored this and began his talking to. They had finally made it into the twentieth century, but were still far from learning about how everything in the Ministry changed after Voldemort was defeated.

The rest of the week passed very slowly. The Hogwarts student were getting very excited at the chance of the candidates arriving for their debate, with the elision of Bradley and Cedric. Even bathroom and Kaden, neither of whom were going to give ear the debate, were catching a petty bit of excitement. Albus was rather shocked at how the bulk of the scholar were getting involved with the election. Being person who had grown up with political sympathies and the Ministry of Magic, he was not quite as thrilled with the vista, especially when reporters from the Daily seer showed up on Fri morning.

"Want to take stake on how quickly they find you ?"John asked as they passed two reporters on their way to precaution of Magical Creatures.

Albus glanced at the reporter. One was a very tall and lanky man, with mussy brown hair and considerable chaff on his face. He was frantically writing down question that the early newsman, an equally grandiloquent woman with huge red back talk and pitch blackness whisker, was asking an uncomfortable looking first year.

"paseo faster,"Albus nudged John as they neared the oak doors.

Albus had absolutely no desire to appear in any exit of the Daily prophesier. Neither of his parents liked reporters and that was a trait they had passed down to Albus. He made a mental banker's bill to warn Bradley and Cedric about them the next time he saw his two cousins.

In an effort to avoid the reporters, Albus, matt, and John spent their free geological period after good luck charm in the piranha 's Den. With any luck when the Ministry officials arrived the reporter would give up trying to interview random Hogwarts student. Although Albus knew it was not random at all. At lunch, after Care of Magical Creatures, he found out that no lupus erythematosus than four of his cousin, along with Lily, had been interviewed that break of the day.

The officials were arriving just as Albus and his champion were heading to the Great Radclyffe Hall for dinner. They paused on the marvellous staircase while the blue-robed witches and wizards entered the Great Hall, gracefully avoiding the reporters that were standing succeeding to the entrance to the Great Hall. Albus recognized nearly all of them, including his dad, Uncle Sir Henry Percy, and Matt 's dad.

The Staff table had been magically elongated enough to put up bum for all of the Ministry officials, who had at sat down and began speaking with the professors. Albus and his Quaker all found tail at the Gryffindor board, near all his first cousin. Cedric was scowling while reading a alphabetic character. He then crumpled it up and then set firing to it with his wand.

"Dad still thinks we pulled that japery, James River,"Cedric muttered."Says he 's going to draw clip to talk with me before he leaves."

"We 'll find out,"James said."We still have n't talked to all the ghosts."

"All except Moaning Myrtle."Cedric shuddered."I do n't go for talking to her."

"She 's our last hope,"James said."We 're going to find her. After all this debate stuff is over."

Albus let out a sigh of alleviation. He had two More days. In all honesty, he 'd nearly forget about Cedric and James 's pursuance to observe out who put the chickens in the Slytherin green room. But apparently his sidekick and full cousin had not.

Kendrick rose from his seat once the Great manse was full."On behalf of myself, the respite of the Hogwarts staff, and the Hogwarts bookman body, I 'd like to welcome our Ministry illustration to Hogwarts. Before we eat, I 'd like to bring in everyone.

"First, our candidates,"Kendrick gestured to Walker Percy and Laurentis, who were both sitting immediately to his left."Walker Percy Weasley and Patricia Laurentis."Kendrick then gestured to the tall, rather portly man on his left hand."Our current Minister, Langston Hartwell."

The eternal sleep of the functionary were interlard amongst the professors. Kendrick gestured to a grey haired witch sitting in between professor Patil and Cedonia."foreland of Magical Law Enforcement. Reena Barnes."Next, Kendrick gestured to Matt 's dad who was sitting next to Albus 's dad and Professor Trelawney."headland of the Department for the control condition and Regulation of Magical creature. Walter Eckerton."

half the Gryffindor table turned and looked at lusterlessness, who gave a smiling and shrugged. Never one to talk about his family, most of Gryffindor was incognizant of who matte 's dad was.

"I 'm surely you all remember Harry Potter, psyche of the Auror section,"Kendrick said as he gestured to Albus 's dad. He received louder applause than anyone else had.

Kendrick then introduced three of Hartwell 's other advisors, who had titles that were just as longsighted and jumble as Percy 's flow job rubric. Then, finally, Kendrick waved his hands and food appeared on all the tables.

During dinner Fred announced that he had reluctantly canceled Quidditch practice for the next day since it was scheduled for the Saame meter as the question and solution session. The relaxation of dinner was spent figuring out which Gryffindors, besides the large measure that were related to Percy, were going to hang the disputation. Both toilet 's little baby, Asthyn, and James 's adept friend, Nathan, were getting to attend.

After dessert had been served and consumed, Kendrick reminded everyone of the time of the following day 's debate and suggested they all turn in early. Albus wondered whether the ministry officials would be staying in the castle or Apparating back to their own abode for the night. Cedric took off for the common room as soon as he had finished feeding, in monastic order to nullify his father.

Albus and his friends decided to abide in the park room that Nox since everyone was so lively and the excitement was catching. John brought a deck of cards of Exploding Snap down from his automobile trunk and the six champion sat around a tabulate playing for at least an minute. Kaden had just had the visiting card explode in his face when the door to the common room opened and someone gasped.

Everyone glanced over and the common room went silent. Sir Henry Percy was standing in the doorway, looking very awkward and uncomfortable. His eye landed on Cedric, who had been organizing his stock of Skiving Snackboxes with James and Nathan. Cedric went as pale as Moaning myrtle.

"Cedric,"Percy said quietly."I need to verbalize with you."

"I did n't do it, Dad !"Cedric exclaimed."I swear it !"

Albus shifted uncomfortably in his derriere, glancing at his friends. pink wine was giving him a disapproving look while lusterlessness, lav, and Kaden looked equally uncomfortable. Amanda had raised her eyebrows. This was ridiculous. Why could n't Percy let it go or believe his son ? Or at least trade with it privately ? It was unfair of him to ramp into the Gryffindor coarse room and call out his own son like that.

Percy shook his head word."Cedric, you 've pulled clowning like this ever since you were slight. This one has you written all over it. You, too, James."

"But Dad-"

"No buts,"Harry Hotspur said."This is not acceptable. Now I 'd like to mouth with you privately."

Cedric did n't budge. Albus swallowed hard and looked at matte, Gospel According to John, and Kaden each in turn. Pranks were all in near fun, but not when innocent people were punished for them. And Albus had no question that Walker Percy would punish Cedric whether he had trial impression or not. Cedric 's past betrayed him and Hotspur was too focused on winning the election to give his son the benefit of the doubt. Albus did not like his cousin taking the spill for something he and his friends did. It just was not something he was comfortable with.

Matt gave a slight nod of his head. lav and Kaden both shrugged and Albus took that to have in mind"do what you have to do ”. Albus sighed and stood up."Wait, Uncle Percy."

"Albus, this is none of your concern,"Hotspur said."Cedric has to present his consequences."

"But he did n't do it !"Albus exclaimed."It was me. I did it."

James burst out laughing."You, Al ? That 's skillful and all of you to try and restrain Cedric out of trouble, but really ? You could n't get into the Slytherin common room."

"It was n't only him,"John said, standing up."Kaden and I did most of it. Al was just a looking out."

"I was, too,"Matt announced."It was the four of us."

Fred and a few of his friends suddenly jumped up from their seats and bowed in front man of Albus, lustrelessness, Gospel According to John, and Kaden."Masters ! You are the kings."

The entire common room exploded in applause and whistles. Albus could n't help but grin despite the fact that he knew he was going to be in trouble. James gave Albus an odd look before breaking out in a wry grin himself. A few first years ran up and high-fived them. Hugo was practically rolling on the storey laughing.

"Enough, enough !"Percy shouted."Albus, you 'd ameliorate come with me. You three as well."He gestured to matte, Gospel According to John, and Kaden.

Albus and his Friend reluctantly followed Walker Percy out of the common room to Kendrick 's sketch. On the way there Albus could n't assist but point out that his uncle did n't really take the air. He strutted, almost like he owned the lieu. Albus supposed he was remembering back to his forefront Boy Clarence Shepard Day Jr.. question Boy was probably now well out of reach for Albus, as was becoming a Prefect. Not like he really wanted to suit a Prefect anyway.

Upon entering Kendrick 's study Albus was horrified to see that all of the Ministry officials were there, including his own Church Father. Matt had paled considerably on seeing his father as well. This was bad.

Kendrick glanced at the boy and then looked questioningly up at Percy."I think we need a here and now of privacy,"Kendrick said to the functionary,"except Harry and Walter."

The rest of the officials left the room, whispering to themselves as they went. Kendrick then resumed his seat behind his desk and conjured enough chairs for the remaining mass. Albus took a seat in between matt and Kaden.

"What 's going on, Percy ?"Kendrick asked.

"I went to Gryffindor to hold a chat with my son about that harlequinade last week and as it turns out he was telling the truth."Albus was pleased to see that Percy looked slightly ashamed."As I was asking Cedric for a secret lecture, my nephew and his friends announced that they were the pranksters."

"They what ?"Harry exclaimed, looking at Albus."Is this about the volaille in the Slytherin green elbow room harlequinade ?"

"Yes,"Harry Hotspur confirmed."These four just confessed to it."

lustrelessness 's dad let out a sigh and shook his question.

"Is this true, boys ?"Kendrick asked.

"Yes, sir,"Albus replied.

"I 'm very foiled in you, Albus,"Harry said."This is the sort of thing I expect from James, not from you."

"As am I in you, Matthew,"Walter added."You 've never been one to pull pranks."

"It was our mind,"John said, gesturing to himself and Kaden."All they did was hold back a look out while we were in their vernacular room."

"Nevertheless,"Kendrick said, folding his manus on his desk."All four of you broke school convention and you will be punished. Fifty compass point from Gryffindor-"

Kaden gasped.

"-each,"Kendrick finished."And detention. As often as I 'd like to go your detention tomorrow we have other matters happening in this castle and none of the staff is free to supervise. You will start your detention on Monday evening and you will have it for a week."

"But sir-"Albus and Matt said at once.

"No buts,"Kendrick said."You blatantly broke multiple schooltime rules."

"But Quidditch and dueling ! That 's the workweek before the number 1 tournament-"

"Your squad will have to hold praxis without you, Mr. Potter,"Kendrick said shortly."You should give thought about that before you participated in this mischief."

"Sir ?"Matt asked quietly.

Kendrick sighed."Yes ?"

"The, er, fully lunar month is Tuesday,"lustrelessness muttered.

"right,"Kendrick replied."Attend the hold that you can and whichever ones you miss can be made up once you are better.

"Thank you,"Walter said,"for being understanding about that."

"Not a problem. Matt 's position is vastly different from missed Quidditch practice."

Albus felt his boldness reddening. It had been a valid point for him. Fred would murder him in his sleep when he found out Albus would escape at least two practice for detention. He certainly would n't be applauding and bowing anymore.

"You 'll report to Filch 's berth on Monday at seven. He 'll give you further instructions on what your detention will mean. Now, get back to Gryffindor pillar,"Kendrick said.

Albus rose from his nates. Harry did the same."Al, you realize I 'm going to throw to tell your female parent about this."

Albus nodded."Yes."

"She wo n't be pleased. But I do want to tell you that I 'm proud of the way you owned up to this when you realized Cedric was wrongfully accused. As foiled as I am that you pulled that prank, I am very well-chosen to deliver such an good son. I 'll see you tomorrow. Have a good night and remember, I always love you,"Harry said and gave Albus a hug.

"beloved you too,"Albus said quietly.

mat was having what was surely a interchangeable lecture with his own Padre and once they were finished, the four boys left Kendrick 's study and went immediately back to Gryffindor tugboat.

"VII detentions,"bathroom muttered as they walked up a set of stairs."Seven. This is worse than that time in endorsement year when we were caught near the Whomping Willow."

"Not to mention the point,"Albus replied.

"And detention with Filch no less,"lusterlessness said."I 'll be doing at least two of them on my own, too."

Kaden shrugged."Still seems worth it."

John grinned."Most definitely worth it."

Albus and Matt gave each former looks that clearly meant they disagreed. No, 200 detail from Gryffindor, seven detentions with Filch, and no Quidditch praxis for a week was not deserving it.
***


In true Hogwarts way by the next daybreak at Breakfast the entire schooling knew that it had been three Gryffindor fourth years and one Gryffindor thirdly year that had managed to hook into the Slytherin common room and deposit two Gallus gallus and a rooster, as well as cover the entire post in bird seed. Hufflepuff was especially excited about this because Gryffindor 's exit of 200 points put them in the lead for the House Cup. Gryffindor was now numb finis and the former Gryffindors were torn between their awe of Albus and his friends and their repulsion that the prank had cost them so many item.

Rose and Amanda had burst out laughing when the boys told them their fate the premature night. They were angry about the exit of points, though. Rose was especially disgusted by John and Kaden 's lack of remorse.

All the ministry officials were at the stave table, whereas the household tables were not nearly as broad as the late day. It seemed that some bookman had not heeded Kendrick 's prompting about going to bed former.

There was a swoosh of wing and Albus looked up to see that the Emily Price Post owls had arrived. His pump started beating faster and he swallowed hard upon seeing his mother 's owl holding a red envelope in its mouth.

"Oh no,"Albus whispered as the owl grew closer. His friends glanced up and saw the thigh-slapper just as the owl was preparing for landing. It landed in forepart of Albus 's plate of testicle and he took the howler in his hand before quickly running out of the Great Hall for the nearest bathroom.

The envelope was already hot when he arrived in the thankfully empty-bellied loo. He reluctantly opened it and the elbow room was soon full with Ginny 's high pitched shouting.

"ALBUS SEVERUS POTTER, WHAT HAS GOTTEN INTO YOU ? I AM ABSOLUTELY SHOCKED TO HEAR THAT YOU WERE IN THE SLYTHERIN commons elbow room AND PUTTING CHICKENS IN THERE NO LESS. I DO NOT CARE THAT YOU WERE ONLY THE flavour OUT. YOU MAY AS WELL HAVE BEEN IN THERE YOURSELF. YOU WERE BLATANTLY BREAKING MULTIPLE SCHOOL RULES INCLUDING BEING OUT OF BED AFTER HOURS.

I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED. THIS IS THE SORT OF THING I EXPECT FROM JAMES, BUT EVEN James I KNOWS WHEN NOT TO crossing THE LINE. AND YOU DID N'T JUST hybridizing THE ancestry. YOU JUMPED WAY OVER IT. AND TO rich person PERCY uncovering OUT ABOUT THIS patch HE IS AT HOGWARTS FOR A DEBATE ? ! YOU KNOW WE HAVE TO KEEP UP APPEARANCES IN rescript FOR HIM TO HAVE A CHANCE AT THIS ELECTION AND THIS DOES NOT HELP.

I HIGHLY APPROVE OF THE DETENTIONS AND red ink OF full stop. I CAN NOT SAY I WOULD BE DISAPPOINTED IF YOUR stallion HOUSE WERE ANGRY WITH YOU OVER THIS. I EXPECT YOU WILL NOT DO THIS AGAIN. IF YOU DO YOU WILL consume MORE THAN JUST PUNISHMENT AT SCHOOL."

The letter exploded with a brief puff of smoke. Albus stood there staring at it for a few bit. His mother had not even mentioned how his confession had saved Cedric. There was no honorable mention of how she was gallant about his honesty, like his dad had been.

Albus heard a suddenly jest from behind him. He turned around and saw none former than Scorpio Malfoy leaning on one of the sinks, smirking.

"I knew it was one of you Gryffindors,"Malfoy said."Just did n't expect it to be you lot. Did n't reckon you 'd be sassy adequate to visualise out our password."

"Just shut up, Malfoy,"Albus muttered as he pushed his way past the Slytherin on his way out of the loo.

"Loved the howler, by the way."Malfoy gave another laugh.

Albus groaned inwardly. He hoped Malfoy had n't heard much of it, but highly doubted it. Albus took a deep breathing spell and walked back to the Great Hall. Perhaps with the argument coming in an hour, the sleep of the students would forget about the prank and the loss of points and discover something new to talk about.


A/N : Big thanks to my Skype writing group. You guy are all awesome ! Thanks for all the beat reviews ! The new banner was done by violet ephemera at TDA. There 's a little under a hebdomad left to nominate floor for the Dobby accolade, so if you like this story, head over to the forums and make it ! Just remember to read the rule first.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was a retentive queue of students waiting to get into the Great Hall after everyone left once breakfast was over. The Great mansion house had been completely emptied in monastic order for the professors to groom it for the argumentation. Albus craned his top dog in attack to see it. As far as he could tell apart it looked the same except the hanker house tables had been replaced by rows of seating room. He, along with Matt and Rose, were only a few scholar away from the front of the queue.

Once they made it to the front they gave their epithet to prof Longbottom and then were lead inside by one of the Ravenclaw Prefects. adult were milling about talking with each other and students were already seated. The first few wrangle were cordoned off with rope and the Ravenclaw Prefect lead Albus, Rose, and Matt to the tierce roped off row. He lifted the rope and told them to file all the way in, to the very end of the unoccupied row. Albus sat in between rose and mat. It appeared that the roped off rows were reserved for Ministry officials and their families. Albus noticed that his mum was sitting in the front row along with the repose of his aunts and uncles. Georgia was also in the front row and was handing out coloring Word and wax crayon to Samantha and lindy hop.

James, Ben, Lily, and Hugo filed in next to Rose a few moment later. Albus saw that Cedric and Bradley, who had walked in with his siblings, were being lead to the front row. Fred, Angie, ling, and patsy finished out their row five minutes later. Albus gazed around the elbow room and fleck Victoire and Teddy sitting across the aisle. Sir Henry Morton Stanley walked in with Gabriella and took tush next to Victoire and teddy. Albus had to admit he was surprise to see them there. Last he heard she was in France and he was in Roumania.

The room soon became packed with the pupil who had won seats as well as former witches and wizards who had chosen to occur. Albus recognized a few who worked in shops in Hogsmeade including gentlewoman Rosmerta. He turned to the social movement of the room and noticed that the staff table had also disappeared and had been replaced with two podiums and a small-scale board, just like the set up in the courtroom at the Ministry.

At exactly eleven o'clock the threshold to the Great Granville Stanley Hall were shut and people began to sit down. Professor Kendrick entered the room from one of its antechambers, followed by the Minister, Albus 's dad, Matt 's dad, and the capitulum of Magical Law Enforcement, Reena Barnes. The other Ministry officials were seated in the front row.

Kendrick lead them to the humble table near the podium. All five, with the exception of Kendrick, sat. Kendrick walked to the strawman of the podiums and the hearing quieted.

"Welcome to the third public debate. I welcome all of you to Hogwarts schooltime of witchcraft and Wizardry. Today 's public debate will be on education. I 'd like to enclose today 's moderator, the foreland of the section for the Control and regulating of Magical animate being, Walter Eckerton."

The audience clapped and Albus whispered to Matt, asking him if he knew his dad was moderating. Matt shook his straits no and the two looked back to the front man.

Kendrick had taken his seat and lustrelessness 's dad had rose."Now I 'd like to welcome our two candidate. Percy Weasley and Patricia Laurentis."

There was more clapping as Percy and Laurentis walked out of the anteroom and took their places behind the podiums. Once the applause subsided, Matt 's dad began to speak.

"Today 's debate will run similarly to past debates, with five minute responses and two arcminute rebuttals. All head and prompts will be about teaching. The disputation will run for an hour and a half. After it is over, the room will be cleared and then lunch will be served. After lunch there will be a myopic break and then the student question and solution school term will take blank space in this Saami room. Without encourage arrivederci, the first interrogative. Mr. Weasley, you will respond first.

"How do you feel about the Hogwarts forcible environs ? Do you feel it is tolerable and conducive to learning or do you feel change should be made ?"

Harry Hotspur took a step forward and smiled at the audience."I believe that the Hogwarts castle is very tributary to learning. Being in a secluded area provides little in the way of beguilement to the students. Yet the proximity of the castle to Hogsmeade village gives students in tierce year and above a much needed break. The only alteration I think need to be made are to update what needs to be updated and compensate what needs to be repaired."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Matt 's dad said. He turned to Laurentis."Ms. Laurentis."

"I agree with Mr. Weasley. The Hogwarts palace is very contributive to learning and I see nothing unseasonable with it the way it is. All of Mr. Weasley 's full point are very valid."

Albus turned to lusterlessness and shrugged. That was odd. They actually agreed on something. Matt 's dad seemed a little shocked by this as well, because he did not say anything for a few seconds after Laurentis quieted.

"All right. Since you two agree, I see no need for rebuttals. Moving on to the adjacent question. Ms. Laurentis, this time you will go first. How do you feel about the flow Hogwarts curriculum ? Do you feel the category adequately prepare today 's young hoi polloi for support in British wizarding smart set ? What changes, if any, do you experience need to be made ?"

"The Hogwarts programme has not been updated in decades. In fact, the simply new class that has been introduced is this year 's course on politics. Curricula is something that needs to change with the times and be re-evaluated at least every other year. The world is a constantly changing station and what scholarly person learn want to change with it. New classes should be offered and outdated family should be removed. Curricula for classes that are kept motivation to change in order to keep up with today 's research. Potions, for lesson, should not be taught the same way now as it was xl old age ago, but unfortunately, that seems to be the case."

"Thank you. Mr. Weasley."

"The core program of Hogwarts is similar to that of magical school day all over the humankind. The classes taught here offer staple and pass on teaching in topics that wizards need in order to mapping in society. We can not support here and advocate getting rid of Charms or transfiguration in party favour of some new depicted object that may or may not instruct our students anything. Yes, the earth is constantly changing, but the basic spells remain the Sami. student forty years ago used 'Alohomora'to open doorway and the charm remains the Lapp today,"Percy argued.

"Your rebuttal, Ms. Laurentis."

"I am in no way insinuating that we should get rid of spell or Transfiguration."She looked offended at Percy 's accusation."All I am saying is that we need to look at the electives that are offered. The basic core course of study should obviously be kept, although they should be updated. Today 's professors are using the same textbooks they used 30 long time ago, which is ridiculous considering how much has changed in their fields-"

"Your time is up. Mr. Weasley."

Percy seemed to puff out his chest a bit."Those textbooks still teach the basics ! How is a textbook written close twelvemonth going to be any better at teaching a bookman how to call down a cauldron ? Additionally, older schoolbook have to a greater extent used copies available making it more affordable for students from lower income families to purchase their books."

It seemed to Albus that they had gotten slightly off subject from the proposed question, but neither nominee seemed to find or care.

"Next question. How do you feel about the way that teacher choice and evaluation is handled at Hogwarts ? Do you feel any changes are needed ?"Mr. Eckerton asked."You may go first, Mr. Weasley."

"Traditionally, the Ministry has taken a very hands-off glide slope to teacher excerption and I believe this has worked well. Ministry officials do not have the expertise to take teachers and leaving this up to the Hogwarts staff has resulted in a very educated and all-round stave at Hogwarts. Following the reign of Voldemort, a small education department was founded in the Ministry to supervise thing and while it is still very hands-off, I believe the low sum of money of regulation has served Hogwarts well,"Percy explained.

"Ms. Laurentis."

Laurentis smirked and then began."teacher excerpt, along with curriculum changes, is the the aspect of Hogwarts that needs the most radical change, in my ruling. While Professor Kendrick is a delicately headmaster, I think more guidance is needed when it comes to choosing prof. For the past tense four eld, Hogwarts has been unable to fix a defence Against the Dark prowess professor for more than two years. One only lasted a year. early professors have been here for decade and yet others have remained even beyond their own expiry. There is nothing incorrect, of grade, with elderly teacher, but Hogwarts appears to have no way of evaluating these stave members. They remain here, teaching, twelvemonth after twelvemonth, whether or not they are actually successful in providing pupil with an education."

"Your rebutter, Mr. Weasley."

Hotspur 's face had gained some color that was not always there."I hardly think it is allow to fault professor Kendrick for the fate of premature Defense Department prof. Upon interviewing them he had no way of knowing what would happen in the end. As for the other professors, if you would look at the statistics of the O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. solvent of the past few yr you 'll see that the majority of pupil are passing. Might I add that those are regulated by the Ministry."

"Ms. Laurentis."

"I would correspond that the master should not be held responsible for one or two professors who should not bear been hired in the maiden place, but Hogwarts has seen more than its mediocre plowshare of short professors in the past few years. Clearly something is incorrect. More citizenry need to be involved with syllabus and teacher selection."

"Next question,"Mr. Eckerton said."Do you feel that the security at Hogwarts is decent ? If not, what should be changed ? Ms. Laurentis, you may begin."

If Albus was not mistaken, he could have sworn he saw Laurentis sigh and pass a slight eye whorl before beginning."Let 's just scream it what it is, why do n't we ? deficiency of security at Hogwarts ! The security here, if you can call up it that, is sorely lacking. power I bring up the fact that for the past three years there had been a severe breach in surety here ? Three years ago, a group of showtime eld dueled the magical spell professor, a seventh year, and that seventh yr 's father on the grounds for a important menstruum of meter before the professors stepped in. The keep an eye on yr, another first year was kidnapped by that same seventh year, who had then graduated. Last year, those Lapplander scholarly person were kidnapped and taken to Australia of all places ! I think we could forgive one incident, but three-"

"Your prison term is up,"matte 's dad said."Mr. Weasley."

Harry Hotspur was looking more and more disgruntled. His face now resembled his fuzz."Might I remind my opponent that following the incident three years ago, Aurors were stationed at Hogwarts and none of the following incidents resulted in any hold up damage to any of the pupil. Last year, the Aurors were slightly preoccupied by the disastrous competition that took place here. Hogwarts is protected by many captivation and all the professors are equal to of protecting the students. close year 's incident was an extremely unfortunate accident-"

"One that nearly resulted in bookman expiry !"Laurentis shouted.

"Ms. Laurentis."

Albus felt like the entire elbow room was staring at himself and Matt. Glancing around, he saw that this was true.

Laurentis ignored Mr. Eckerton."I remind the wizarding community that the Aurors have yet to capture the mastermind of that incident. Which by the way was not the just incident last year. Last year 's Defense Against the wickedness Arts professor kept a highly dangerous beast in the castle for month before anything was done. And by the time it was discovered, it took Walter Eckerton stepping in to possess it removed ! Then, the professor was allowed to stay, despite the fact that later on it was discovered that he had been terrorizing and humiliating students in his class all year, not to cite the fact that his curricula were not appropriate. Following that atrocious rear of barrel in security, regarding the animal, the same professor proceeded to let out data that could compromise the life history of another student-"

"That is enough, Ms. Laurentis !"Mr. Eckerton shouted."You are speaking out of turn."

Albus was unsure whether Matt 's dad was cutting her off because her time was up or because she was getting dangerously close to talking about lusterlessness. Come to reckon of it, how did she even know about that ? She could n't possibly screw about lusterlessness 's circumstance, could she ? Albus glanced at flatness, who was looking extremely pale.

"I believe we are out of clip,"Mr. Eckerton continued. He looked quite flustered."Please exit the elbow room while lunch is set up. You may fall in a half hour."

Albus stood and waited for his turn to leave the elbow room. The entire crowd was whispering amongst themselves and pointing at Albus and Matt every so often. He was tempted to skip luncheon all together, except he was extremely hungry.
***


Albus managed to forfend speaking to any reporter before and during lunch, which proved difficult because they seemed to throw multiplied during the debate. All seemed keen on interviewing him, lustrelessness, John, and Kaden in particular proposition due to their having been kidnapped the old June. Albus was quite relieved when the food in front of them vanished and the bulk of the mass in the way left in order for the interrogative sentence and answer school term to take place.

Both nominee seemed to feature regained their calmness during the meal because Percy 's case was no longsighted beet red and Laurentis had fixed her hair and was wearing a smile. The reporters had been banned from the room for the duration of the session, much to their dismay. matt 's dad also looked advantageously and was standing in the forepart of the room in front of the podiums, waiting for everyone to sit down.

The room was much emptier now, considering that only the students chosen to listen to the debate and the professor were allowed in the elbow room. Albus and matte managed to get a few rump in the front man row. James and Lily joined them.

Once the doors had been shut and everyone had sat down, Mr. Eckerton stepped forward."Welcome to the question and resolution session. It will run for an minute and the campaigner will respond as many doubtfulness as they can during that clip. Please enkindle your hand if you have a question."Nothing about the burst during the debate was mentioned.

Albus could not recall of anything to ask. He had absolutely no desire to speak to Laurentis and anything that he would want to ask Percy he could just ask at Christmastide or send him an owl. Not that he really had any doubt for his uncle, either.

A marvelous Ravenclaw boy raised his hand and Mr. Eckerton pointed to him."This question is for Ms. Laurentis,"the boy began."How exactly do you propose to make Hogwarts More secure ? I 'm nearly positive that the most modern magic spell are already used."

"That is very true,"Laurentis answered."I believe that we need to calculate outside the world of charm and give prof basic preparation in defense mechanism against intruders. I think a program, similar to very canonical Auror grooming, would gain all staff greatly."

A Hufflepuff in pigtails had a question for both candidates next."Would either of you change the O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. exams if you were elected ?"

"Only to fit better with any possible syllabus changes,"Laurentis replied."The change would follow later. Not for at least two years."

"well-nigh likely, no,"Percy said."The statistic prove that they work well as they are."

The question and resolution session continued in the Same way, proving itself very different from the argumentation. It was quite the opposition, actually. Albus found himself very bored towards the end, his mind drifting towards what both candidates had said during the debate. He was very peculiar about what the prophet would say about it the following day.

"We have clock time for one more query,"Mr. Eckerton finally said.

Albus let out a sigh of relief. A glance at lustrelessness told him that his best friend was feeling the same way, since he was leaning back in his chair, his eyes nearly closed.

Mr. Eckerton pointed to a girl sitting in the far back. Albus did n't recognize her, but she had Ravenclaw gown on.

"This is for both of you, if either of you know anything about it. Ms. Laurentis, you were talking about prof Balladanis in the disputation and you mentioned something about him giving educatee info that they could use to expose another bookman. Is that really honest ? And what exactly happened ?"

Albus prodded Matt in the side and whispered to him what the question had been. Given lusterlessness 's reaction, which was a feeling of mouth panic, he almost wished he had n't bothered to ignite him up.

Mr. Eckerton stared at the student before turning to the campaigner."You may suffice the first part of the question and that part only."

"It is true,"Laurentis said just as Percy had been opening his mouth to respond."professor Balladanis was not cut out for teaching and did not understand the fact that there is a strain between teaching to spread knowledge and teaching to endanger others."

"Does it have to do with the Anamatek ?"a Slytherin boy asked.

"Yes,"Percy said."The situations were related."

"This is why I believe teachers need to be evaluated so we can keep off this type of spot,"Laurentis explained.

"But what kind of entropy could endanger someone ? Was it in the curriculum ?"the Ravenclaw who had originally asked the query said."Knowledge is power."

"It was not,"Laurentis answered."Which is exactly why it will be expert for professor to have program that they stick to."

"I just do n't realise,"the Ravenclaw went on."If people are kept in the nighttime they just blindly follow authority. I 've always believed that people should be taught everything possible."

flatness and his dad were both wearing interchangeable expressions. Both looked extremely uncomfortable and his dad was fiddling with a clasp on his robe. mat looked like he wanted his chair to eat up him up.

"We 're all out of time,"Mr. Eckerton said."Thank you all for coming. The professors have requested that you all return to your unwashed rooms and that you are gratis to decline remark to the reporters that are waiting outside."

There was a shuffling of chairs as people got up and exited the way. Matt grabbed Albus 's arm without saying anything, leading him directly to his beginner, who was speaking to both the candidates.

"Dad,"lusterlessness said quietly, not waiting for him to finish his conversation with Laurentis and Sir Henry Percy.

Mr. Eckerton turned around and his face became sympathetic. He turned back to Laurentis and Percy."Excuse me. My son. I believe you can head up to Kendrick 's bailiwick and I will be there shortly."

Albus, Matt, and Mr. Eckerton left Laurentis and Sir Henry Percy, who had now begun to contend about something, in the Great antechamber and entered one of its antechambers. The way was furnished with a few lounge and chairs. Albus chose an armchair while matte and his dad sat down on a couch.

"I 'm really distressing, Matt,"Mr. Eckerton said quietly."I did not look lastly yr to be brought up during this debate."

"It 's not your fault,"Matt replied as he picked at a loose thread on the sofa."It 's just the way she, Laurentis, was talking, I thought that maybe she .... Does she live, Dad ? She seemed to be intimate an awful lot about what Balladanis did."

"She does n't screw,"Mr. Eckerton said immediately."The only the great unwashed at the Ministry who know are in my section. However, she and the rest of the Ministry did have to make out why I was filing a report on Balladanis last year. I had to cave in understanding as to why I wanted him investigated on that report."

"Did you list exactly what he did, with the Anamatek and his wolfman lessons ?"matt asked.

"No."Mr. Eckerton shook his chief."There are laws protecting minor in this sorting of post and I was not legally required to observe your name. All I had to say was that an anonymous bookman had felt threatened by a certain example that Balladanis taught. That was all that was needed to launch the investigating. That alone would not have gotten him sacked, but enough evidence was found through question students about his teaching method that nada else was needed. It was n't even mentioned that it was a third year class in my archetype report."

"But she seemed to know so a great deal,"Matt said.

"She does n't. Politicians lard what they know in orderliness to get elected. You do n't have to worry. I suppose if she really wanted to she could seem at the syllabus for Defense for that metre of year and inquiry and figure it out, but it would take a lot of study. And swear me, she does not throw the clip for that. Nor does she really have any reasonableness to care what lesson it was or why a educatee was threatened or who that student was."

"But she said my animation had been at risk,"lusterlessness said.

"Again, that 's her embellishment."Mr. Eckerton half-smiled."The merely unity who are really rum are your fellow bookman and this will blow over. They have no way of finding out."

"trade good,"mat replied, finally smiling a bit.

"I 'd amend get to the master 's discipline,"Mr. Eckerton said as he stood up.

Albus waited while Matt said good-bye to his dad and then the two son headed back to Gryffindor tower. The reporter had either scattered or had found students bequeath to be interviewed, for the boys came across no one but Prefects and a few get-go years setting off dungbombs on their way back to the rough-cut elbow room. Albus was very sword lily to hear that Laurentis did not bonk the specific about what had happened with Balladanis the previous year, but he wished neither her or Hotspur would ever bring it up again in a debate. Somehow, though, Albus doubted that it would n't be.


Sorry for the latterly update ! Time has gotten away from me. Thanks to all who have read and reviewed. Big thanks to my Skype writing group ; you guys are amazing !

I have a new Meet the source thread on the forums. There 's a link to it on my Author Thomas Nelson Page. Please chink it out and ask me question !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The article in the Prophet on Sunday proved to be just as outrageous as the real debate had been. It took up the total battlefront Thomas Nelson Page and was ripe with quotes from both prospect and a few students, although none of Albus 's cousins had been quoted. The Ravenclaw who had asked the motion about Balladanis at the dubiousness and resolution session had not only been interviewed, but she had received her own article located on the second page. Albus groaned when he opened the Sir Frederick Handley Page and saw it, sodding with a picture of the Ravenclaw in question. His ally quickly crowded around the newspaper to read it over his shoulder.

CENSORSHIP AT HOGWARTS ?

Yesterday 's newsworthy argument at Hogwarts
School of witchcraft and Wizardry proved
not only to be a time to learn about the
candidate'lawful opinions on magical
educational activity, but possibly uncovered an number
of censoring that had been looked over
death year.

Following the debate a question and reply
seance was held for those lucky few
Hogwarts scholarly person who had gotten to sit
in the Great Hall during the debate. The
live enquiry was asked by sixth year
Ravenclaw Elizabeth York. During the public debate
Patricia Laurentis brought up the issue
of the investigating of Professor Aplysia
Balladanis, previous Defense Against
the Dark Arts professor ( see article on
front page ). York then questioned what
selective information had taught that according to
Laurentis"endangered a student 's life."

'I just wonder what selective information was being
taught because I 'm a firm believer that
students should never be denied
info. If it was bad enough
to endanger someone 's life sentence, then indisputable,
it should not be taught, but no one is
saying what the information was .'House of York
said in an interview following the
session.

After the question was asked, moot
moderator and Head of the Department for
the Regulation and Control of Magical
tool Walter Eckerton told the
candidates that they could not say
what the entropy was, just confirm
that the incident had happened. Eckerton
quickly wrapped up the session, stating
that they were out of time.

It is interesting to mark that Eckerton
is the wizard who filed the charge
thus launching the investigation of
Balladanis. When asked for a input,
Eckerton said'I 'm the head of the
Department for the Regulation and Control
of Magical Creatures. He had an Anamatek.
I was informed of the situation and had
to take action mechanism .'

The situation provided More questions
than result and it will be occupy
to find out whether this incident plays
a further role in April 's election.

Albus set down the theme and pushed away his half-eaten breakfast. Why did the Prophet have to print that ? It did n't seem relevant to the election. Balladanis had been sacked and was long gone. It was in the past.

"Your dad 's right,"Amanda said to Matt later on when they were in the marauder 's Den."She 's just trying to make things into a bigger deal so she can win more votes. pol turn the simplest affair into huge deals."

"I know, but still,"matt said as he picked through a pile of Bertie Bott 's Every savor noggin."It 's like none of them realize that it 's my life they 're making a big business deal of."

"Honestly, I do n't cogitate it 's actually the selective information that people want,"rosebush said, looking up from her Potions textbook."Think about it. If person were to leak the information, and say that Balladanis was teaching so practically about identifying werewolves that people could cipher out you were one, they 'd stimulate zippo else to utter about-"

"Yeah, because they 'd be talking about how there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts,"matt said.

"No, that 's not what I meant,"Rose replied."They 're concern in the bigger yield. The fact that there might be censorship at Hogwarts. They do n't deal what the information is that 's been censored. They just manage that something 's been censored. And I think that if they really knew what it was, they 'd all check that Balladanis had gone over the top."

"I guess,"matte said."But that 's the thing, no one 's going to really know what it is."

"It 'll all go down on over soon enough,"Albus said."Next debate 's on law enforcement. Aurors, Azkaban, that variety of thing, and Laurentis runs Azkaban."

Albus spent much of Sunday afternoon on the Quidditch sales pitch, which was a welcomed substitute from discussing the debate and the election and Walker Percy and Laurentis. He loved his admirer, but they all seemed to be able-bodied to hash out the election for ages and he could n't. Fred would have had them on the pitch yearner, but Hufflepuff had reserved it for the evening.

The word of the censorship clause seemed to calm down the next day, if only because a near majority of the prof had all scheduled test that day and everyone was busy with conclusion minute studying. Albus had exams in both Herbology and defense Against the Dark artistic production, although the latter was really no different from the usual worksheets. Luckily there was no test in Care of Magical Creatures and then Albus had a free period.

matt slept the entire free full stop and up until dinner in hopes that he would be able to go to that night 's hold. He had no desire to do detention on his own, so he was hoping that he 'd be able to get away with just missing the next dark 's. He still looked absolutely exhausted even after the nap.

"If we 're doing anything outside I 'll have to go away,"Matt said as the four boys made their way to Filch 's study."Falco columbarius I hope it 's not outside."

"Me, too,"toilet said."primer coat 's horribly muddy after last Night 's storm."

"Bet the team will love that."Albus said They had exercise that nighttime and Albus was missing it.

The male child continued their way through the palace until they made it to Filch 's study. Albus knocked three multiplication and then stood back, waiting for the ancient caretaker to give the threshold.

Filch was holding his cat, Josie, in his blazon when he appeared in the doorway. He was scowling, the seam on his face showing more than ever, and looked thoroughly disgusted at having to manage the boys'detention. He let the cat down on the basis and she took a swat at Kaden 's robes before darting behind a nearby suit of armor.

"You lot again,"Filch muttered as he shut the door behind him, despite the fact that the four boys had n't had a joint detention with Filch since sec year."You 're scrubbing the 2nd story girlfriend 's john. With toothbrushes, of course."Filch reached into his pouch and pulled out four grubby toothbrushes.

"That 's Moaning Myrtle 's lavatory,"Albus whispered to his supporter as they distributed their cleaning implements and followed Filch down the corridor.

Filch shooed them into the bathroom and leaned against the threshold, his arms across his breast, and scowled at them as they began. Albus squatted down and began to scrub the floor, privy and Kaden doing the Lapplander. The three had agreed to realize the hold as easy as possible for matt and thus left him the sinks.

Albus had n't been scrubbing for more than two bit when he heard a splashing behind him and a girlish giggle. He turned around and saw Myrtle, smiling and winking at him. She floated over until she was hovering over the discussion section of flooring that Albus was scrubbing.

"Albus Potter."She giggled again."You 're back to my pot. Oh, but this metre you 've been in difficulty, have n't you ?"

"Er, yes,"Albus muttered.

"This is n't for what you did to the Slytherin common way, is it ?"Myrtle asked."Your brother asked me about that. I told him that you 'd been in here that Nox, hiding under your invisibility Cloak."

Albus flinched when she said the actor's line"invisibility cloak"and hoped that Filch had had some hearing loss in his old age. The last matter Albus needed was for the caretaker to know he had an invisibleness Cloak.

"I did n't know you were pranking the Slytherins, though,"Myrtle continued."I like boy who pull pranks, you know."Vinca minor giggled again and floated closer to Albus, so closelipped that his bridge player was now inside her arm. He moved it away.

"You know, some class I hardly get any son coming in here,"Vinca minor said as she floated towards John."And this year there 's so many. I think you should come visit me more often. It gets lonely in here, you know."

"Yeah, I imagine it 's quite lonely, being utterly,"Kaden said.

myrtle let out an ear-piercing shriek and started wailing. She sped past times Albus and into one of the stalls, where she plunged herself into the toilet.

"Sensitive type, is n't she ?"Kaden said.

There was another loud splash and Vinca minor was suddenly right in front of Kaden."You would be too if you were short !"she shouted.

"But could n't you leave the loo ?"John asked."The other ghosts float about the castling all the time."

"parting the loo ?"Vinca minor repeated."Leave the loo ?"She said a bit louder."But this is where I died ! I find it 's best to recollect about my death right here. Right where it happened."

"Would n't it be less lonely with the other spectre ?"John asked as he began to scrub one of the stall doors.

"The former ghosts do n't infer,"Vinca minor lamented."They 're all satisfied being dead. Even the Grey Lady and she 's always seemed slightly miserable. But no, none of them are as miserable as me."Myrtle seemed proud about that.

"Weird,"can muttered under his breath.

"placidity !"Filch shouted."You 're in detention. No talking."

Vinca minor resumed floating above the boys, letting out a loud lamentation every so often. Kaden and lusterlessness continued to scrub up the level while trick scrubbed the stalling. Matt was still scrubbing the sinks, but was going very slowly and winced every so often.

"You look piteous !"Vinca minor exclaimed as Matt 's hand slipped and he dropped his toothbrush. He bent down to piece it up and leaned on the sinkhole, squeezing his eyes shut. Myrtle floated down to bulk large just above the sinkhole next to him and smiled.

flatness said nothing and turned from Myrtle, to get started on the sump on the early side. myrtle followed."You know, I 'm misfortunate here all the time. I just sit here and contemplate my last ..."myrtle continued.

Myrtle continued to keep an eye on Matt around the bathroom while he was clearly trying to ignore her and put as much aloofness between them as possible. He had no hazard with this since he was exhausted and Vinca minor was a ghost. Albus caught John 's eye as myrtle giggled for the twentieth time and the two shared a mum laugh.

After they 'd been scrubbing for nearly two hours Filch finally told them they could barricade. Albus 's genu and paw were raw and he had a feeling he smelled strongly of cleaner. John and Kaden looked equally miserable and lusterlessness looked as bad as he did the morning after a full-of-the-moon moon, only without the cuts and raciness. Vinca minor looked delighted at their misery.

"sojourn me again soon !"she shouted after them as they left."Especially you,"she added to lustrelessness with another giggle.

"Someone has a crush on you,"John said to Matt as soon as they were out of earreach of Filch.

"Shut up,"lustrelessness muttered.

"flatness and myrtle, what an adorable couple you 'd build,"John continued."You should go visit her. She seemed to be happier knowing that you were miserable."

"I said shut up about it !"matte shouted.

"amercement, was only making a caper,"whoremonger replied.

The boys walked in secrecy the rest of the way to Gryffindor Tower. They did not come across anyone else, which Albus was grateful for since he was uncertain as to whether it was past curfew or not. Once back in Gryffindor, matte immediately went to the dormitory without saying another word to Albus, John, or Kaden.

"Bob Hope it 's not scavenge tomorrow,"lavatory muttered as he sat down on the nigh president and pulled up his pant leg."Look at that. My knee joint 's all red."

"match my fingers,"Kaden added.

Albus would gladly suffer through another day of Muggle cleaning if it meant the rest of the detainment would be called off. He was missing two Quidditch practice and the finish dueling practice before the first duel. Some captain he was, missing the last-place practice before their first tournament. Their terminal drill was Thursday evening and Albus would be off in custody, doing who knows what. He was planning on having Amanda run the practice, although he had n't talked to her about it yet.

The door to the mutual room opened and the Gryffindor Quidditch squad, minus Albus of class, trouped in. They all looked muddy, exhausted, and sweaty and Albus felt a pang of guilt as he watched them head up to the hall to shower.

"Missed you, Al,"Fred said as he passed."You 're missing on Wednesday, too, are n't you ?"

"Yeah,"Albus muttered."Sorry."

Fred nodded."Just do n't do it right before a match."

That was at to the lowest degree fortunate, Albus thought. They would n't be playing in another Quidditch match until after the vacation, seeing as the succeeding mates was Hufflepuff versus Ravenclaw. However, he couldn't avail but feel that missing dueling practice right before a tourney was unfit than missing Quidditch recitation right before a match.
***


Albus 's week did not improve the following day, when he began it with double potions. Matt, feeling too ill to brew potions all break of the day, stayed in the dormitory to sleep, leaving Scorpio Malfoy without a partner to brew that day 's Wart remotion Potion. Even worse, Albus 's collaborator was also not in class. Slughorn saw this as the double-dyed opportunity to pair Albus with Malfoy.

Albus set up his caldron while Malfoy stalked off to the potions cupboard to get the component. He returned a short while later and began to hack a shrivelfig into perfectly sized pieces. Albus took the rat lien, dumped it into the cauldron, and began to stir it.

"Word is you and your champion got a week 's detention for that caper,"Malfoy said, not looking up from his shrivelfig.

"Yes. Not that it 's any of your business organization,"Albus responded.

"Oh, but it is."Malfoy smirked, finally looking up."You did n't by probability get Thursday off from detention, did you ?"

"No,"Albus muttered. He took a few mysterious breather, trying to settle down himself down. He was stirring the cauldron far too quickly.

"That 's dueling drill,"Malfoy said, as if it had slipped Albus 's judgement."Our own captain, missing practice because of detention. I do n't suppose you 've found somebody else to run practice, have you ?"

"If you 're angling for the job you 're out of destiny,"Albus said as he threw another rat spleen into the caldron with more force than was requirement."Amanda already said she 'd do it."That was n't necessarily truthful, as Albus had slept too late that dayspring to see Amanda at breakfast before they 'd had to go down to the dungeons.

"Tagger ?"Malfoy scoffed."I think the captain ought to throw at least some accomplishment at dueling."

"Why does it matter so much ?"Albus asked."It 's one practice session ! It 's not like one practice would clear you captain."

"When the professor see what a advantageously job of it I do-"

"One reason, Malfoy,"Albus interrupted."hold me one reason why you should do it over Amanda."

Malfoy 's nerve broke out in a malicious grin."One grounds ? The moon 's going to be in an occupy phase angle tonight."

Albus lowered his vocalism."You would n't. You ca n't. Kendrick would boot out you."

"Only if he knew it was me who spilled the beans,"Malfoy pointed out.

Albus felt the roue waste pipe from his face. Why had he never thought of that ? Of course there were mode Malfoy could let it slip without anyone knowing it was him."Fine,"Albus muttered."Fine. You captain the squad on Thursday. But just that day. I do n't bear detention on Saturday afternoon."

"fair enough,"Malfoy said, clearly satisfied at how things had turned out.

Albus took a parsnip and began to hack it with as much violence as he could rally, imagining Malfoy 's smirking look upon the veggie 's surface. Luckily, Malfoy did not say another word to Albus throughout the entire category, which gave Albus the restraint not to hex him into next century after they left Slughorn 's room.

The day continued in a downward spiral when Patil had them work on transfiguring rats into teacups and Albus 's teacup ran across his table and crashed onto the floor. political relation was no better because Professor Embry had the category discuss the past Saturday 's argument, something Albus just wanted to put behind him. He could n't avail but find as if the full year was staring at him for the whole 60 minutes since Embry brought up the matter of his kidnapping and the discharge of prof Balladanis.

Kendrick sent Albus, matte, John, and Kaden an owl at dinner informing them that their detainment would take seat in nursery Two, where Professor Longbottom needed help transferring his flying dragon droppings fertilizer from a huge pile outside to diverse pots inside.

"Disgusting !"John exclaimed upon reading the note."I get enough of that in Herbology."

"At least we 're with Longbottom and not Filch,"Albus pointed out."lusterlessness will be missing this one, obviously."

Saint John nodded."Where is he, by the way ? Have n't seen him all day."

"Probably still in the dormitory room. He was intelligent asleep when I went up there to snaffle my Transfiguration book at luncheon,"Albus said.

Kaden glanced at his sentry."We 're not even going to consume time to go back there before detention. It 's six-thirty."

Albus set his branching down. He had been picking at his beef stew, but not really eating it. He still had n't told his Quaker that Malfoy was going to be running his dueling practice later that hebdomad. Add that to the fact that now he would n't get to see mat before the full lunar month and it was just turning out to be an horrendous evening.

Rose seemed to read Albus 's mind."We 'll go check into on him after dinner,"she said. Amanda nodded.

Saint John the Apostle and Kaden polished off the rest of their repast and then the three boys set off for the greenhouses. The sun was just beginning to set as they walked across the flat coat and Albus knew that meant that matte would be heading to the Hospital fender soon. He hoped pink wine and Amanda would pull off to see him before he did.

Neville was waiting for them when they arrived, bearing four spadeful and four sets of gloves.

"Matt ca n't come tonight,"Albus said once they reached Neville.

Neville glanced at the sky."Oh, right. I 'd forgotten."He handed the male child the digger and baseball mitt."All of this,"he gestured to a large pile of manure,"needs to be moved into the pots in nursery Two. You can leave behind once you 're finished."

Albus groaned inwardly as he looked at the bundle. It must suffer been at least six groundwork richly and as big around as the ling shed near the Quidditch pitch. It would take them at least an hour. He sighed as he pulled on his boxing glove and began to shovel the manure.

With all three boys working steadily it took them an hour and a one-half to move all the manure. When they finally finished all Albus wanted to do was go up to Gryffindor Tower and take the world 's longest exhibitioner. He felt risky than he did after a Quidditch practice session in the pouring pelting.

"Two down, five to go,"John said after Neville parted ways with them on the s floor."I 'd never thought I 'd say this, but I 'd really like some lines."

"I just wish they 'd delete Th 's,"Albus muttered.

"Oh, right, what are you doing about your dueling practice ?"John the Divine asked.

Albus felt angriness boiling up in him again just thinking about it."Malfoy 's taking over for the practice."

"hold, seriously ?"John exclaimed."But Amanda 's on your team. She could have-"

"It 's complicated,"Albus muttered. For some reason he did n't need to get into why Malfoy was going to be captain for the night."And it 's only for a night."

John gave Albus a strange look."I guess, but still ... Malfoy ? It 's going to go to his head."

"I know !"Albus exclaimed."I know, all right ? It 's not like I wanted to take detention on Thursday and leave out that practice session. I 'll remind you that this prank was yours and Kaden 's thought. Not mine."

"I know,"John said."But Malfoy ..."his vocalisation trailed off.

Albus spent a trade good half hr in the shower once he returned to Gryffindor and then collapsed into bed, wishing that he could heat up and find out that the day had been an terribly ambition. Instead, he dreamed that prof Kendrick decided to aim away Albus 's captainship and fall in it to Malfoy.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed ! This will be the only update this month as I am currently working on NaNoWriMo.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


trick got his wish the following even when the son spent an 60 minutes doing lines with professor Whitney Young, which was slightly pointless since Young paid absolutely no aid to them. After they were released, Albus, John, and Kaden immediately went to the Hospital Wing, as they had been ineffectual to visit mat earlier in the day.

lady Pomfrey was refilling potion bottle when they arrived a short while later. The curtains were drawn around mat 's common bed while all the early bed remained empty.

"howdy, boys,"the nurse greeted them."I 'll let you impose for ten minutes, but curfew 's very soon."

Albus nodded and led John and Kaden to Matt 's bed, where he pulled back the curtains and entered the small area. mat was laying in bed with a bandage around his left arm and another on his forehead.

"How are you feeling ?"Albus asked.

"Awful,"lusterlessness replied."But I do n't want to talk about it. What 's new with you lot ?"

"Just did an minute of origin,"john said."And last dark we had to shovel manure for Longbottom. You 're lucky you missed that one. I swear I still smell like dragon dung."

"But now I have to do two hold by myself. Possibly three,"lusterlessness lamented.

"troika ? You 're not going to get out of here tomorrow ?"Kaden asked. Usually Matt got out of the infirmary fender two Day after the broad moon.

"I will, but it just depends on what the detention is. If it 's lines then I can go but if it 's cleaning again then I 'll have to skip it. dame Pomfrey wants me to rest tomorrow."

"Ca n't think of what else they 'd sustain us do,"John the Evangelist said."supposition what else ? Albus is having Malfoy run his dueling team 's practice tomorrow since he 'll be in detention."

"You 're what ? !"Matt exclaimed."That 's mad, Albus."

Albus sighed."It 's one day. One practice. It 's not like I 'm giving him my team."

"Yeah, but there are other people on your team,"lustrelessness pointed out."One of them could have captained it."

"As I told John and Kaden, it 's complicated,"Albus said."And it wo n't hap again."

Matt shrugged, but he did n't seem convinced. The last thing Albus wanted to do was recount him the real reason why Malfoy was going to run the practice. Matt did n't need that on his home base.

"Time 's up !"lady Pomfrey announced as she brought a tray of potions to Matt."hurriedness back to Gryffindor. The last affair the three of you need is another detention."

As it turned out, there were former things that the prof thought of for the male child'detentions. Thursday evening they cleaned cauldrons without magic trick in Professor Slughorn 's schoolroom, something that Madam Pomfrey forbade flatness from doing, insisting that he rick in early instead. Albus spent the stallion hold thinking about what Malfoy was doing with his dueling team and counting down the minutes until he would be able to ask Amanda about it.

"He was really nasty,"Amanda said once the son were back in the common room after detention. Amanda had gotten out of dueling practice session before they 'd finished custody."A few of the indorse age were cursing him afterward. I heard them. Not that I blame them since he all out yelled at them for not being capable to perform a Jelly-Legs Jinx."

"What does he carry ?"Albus replied."They 're second years !"

"I tried to tell him that, but he did n't care,"Amanda said."He even yelled at a Slytherin."

"Seriously ?"Albus said."Wow."

"I 'm really sword lily Longbottom made you captain and not him,"Amanda continued."I think I 'd drop out otherwise."

"I would 've quit if he was on my team, period,"John said.

"He would n't lastly as captain anyway,"Amanda pointed out."prof Cedonia was supervising and she had to tell him to tone it down about five times and then once one of the second yr was close to teardrop, she called an end to the practice."

Albus could n't help but feel a bit of satisfaction that Malfoy made such a bad maitre d'hotel, despite the fact that he did feel bad for his teammate. He doubted Malfoy would stop insisting that he should give birth been made police chief, but Albus doubted anything would stop that.

Saturday brought with it a flashy thunderstorm that rendered it nearly impossible to listen what anyone was saying in the Great Radclyffe Hall at breakfast. Albus was quite happy that Fred had not scheduled a Quidditch practice for that day, but hoped that the violent storm would lull down by the meter the tournament began since his team would need to be able to learn each other speak.

Malfoy was already seated at Team sevener 's office at the Hufflepuff table when Albus arrived later that good afternoon. He was proud of to see that the rest of the squad was giving him a panoptic berth, including a few of the new Slytherins.

"Albus !"one of the second year Hufflepuffs, Alice Jake, shouted when she saw him coming."So gladiolus you 're back."

"Me, too."Albus grinned as he sat down in between her and another Hufflepuff."You lot gear up ?"

There was a chorus of"yes 's"and a few nods of heads from Albus 's squad. The last few dueler ran into the room and snagged the last few seats, which were unfortunately side by side to Malfoy.

Albus glanced at his ticker. Five minutes until the tourney began. He felt like he should attain some sort of speech, like all of his Quidditch police chief did before mate. But what was he supposed to say ?

"Er, well, here we are. The first tournament,"Albus began."You are all fantabulous dueler, each and every one of you. We 've all been practicing hard and you 've all made great improvements. We 're going to do majuscule, but commend, just have fun. But if you remember what you 've learned and duel like you do in practice, I think we can definitely win this."

The rest of his team ( sans Malfoy ) gave a hearty cheer and then turned to professor Longbottom, who had just called for tending. Albus 's team immediately quieted down.

"Welcome to the first dueling tournament !"Neville announced."It will run as it has in the past tense, with two affaire d'honneur happening simultaneously. Professor Cedonia is coming around with the tourney schedule, which will be given to each police captain. Please pay attention and recognise when you are to duel. Everyone will duel twice. Professor Cedonia and I will each preside over a dueling rope and will announce the succeeder. The first somebody to disarm their opponent will be given a point. Remember, you are only allowed to use spells you have learned in your classes. The first duel will get momentarily."

professor Cedonia handed Albus a piece of sheepskin and he set it down while his squad crowded around him."I think it 'll be easier for me to let you know when you 're to duel. I 'll tell you two duel before you 're scheduled. Alice and Sophie Tucker, you 're first."

Albus glanced down the leaning and noticed that he was the tenth duel in Neville 's mob and the seventeenth in Cedonia 's. That would collapse him plenty of time to get used to organizing his team. It was slightly deluge, having to constantly be paying attending to the leaning and figuring out when everyone should be dueling. After a few affaire d'honneur, he managed to get the hang of it.

"Malfoy,"Albus said."You 're up in two affaire d'honneur, in Cedonia 's ring."

Malfoy nodded, but did n't say anything. He had not said a Word the entire tournament, which was very uncharacteristic, and the remainder of the squad seemed to be set on ignoring him.

Albus handed the list to Amanda and headed to Neville 's dueling closed chain, where he was set to duel whoremaster. Two Hufflepuffs from other squad were currently battling it out and Albus was next. The shorter of the two Hufflepuffs finally managed to demilitarise his opponent.

"Point to Team Four !"Neville shouted as the two Hufflepuffs left."Albus ceramist versus John the Evangelist Brickston."

Albus and Saint John gave each early apologetic smiles before bowing and raising their wands, waiting for Neville 's okay.

"Ready, duel !"Neville shouted.

Albus immediately sent a leg-locker curse at john, who easily deflected it. John sent the Lapplander at Albus who also avoided it. Albus continued sending while at lav, who kept avoiding them, until he finally got hit with a Jelly-legs Curse and nearly lost his basis. In the fourth dimension it took him to perform the counter-curse, Albus was able to hit him with Petrificus Totalus.

"Expelliarmus !"Albus shouted as toilet fell over. He caught Saint John the Apostle 's wand in his right on hired man and then turned to Neville, who was smiling.

"Point to Team Seven !"

Neville performed the counter-curse on John and the two male child left the ring. Albus headed back to his table, where Malfoy was just heading to Cedonia 's dueling ring.

Malfoy dueled a second yr and won within two minutes. He was smirking as he walked back to the Hufflepuff table, but he returned to mediocre applause. It seemed that the relief of the squad was still bitingly about Thursday 's practice.

The rest of the tourney went well. Both Albus and Malfoy won their second duels, although Malfoy had a lot More difficulty since he dueled a fellow fourth yr.

"Attention, I 'd like to denote the succeeder !"Neville shouted a little while after the final duel. The entire room immediately quieted and looked up at Neville."Thank you. In tertiary property with 44 power point is squad quatern !"

Cheers erupted from the Ravenclaw table, where Team Four was currently seated. Once they quieted down, Neville spoke."In second place with 52 points is team Seven !"

The remainder of Albus 's team began to squall and inspire, but Albus was too stunned to do much of anything. He could n't conceive it ! His initiatory ever tournament as maitre d'hotel and his team had gotten second place ! A few people slapped him on the rear and he broke out into a smiling.

"And in beginning topographic point, with 55 points is squad Six !"Neville announced.

There were cheers from the early end of the Hufflepuff table, but Albus ignored them. He was still shocked that his own team had done so well.

"Great job, everyone !"he said once he regained his composure."I knew we could do it !"

The table was filled with excitement and chatter and it continued even after they got up and began to pull up stakes the room. Albus was dying to get back to Gryffindor tower where he could celebrate his near win with his friends.

"Nice going, Potter,"Malfoy bickering as soon as they left the Great vestibule."I bet if I were the captain we would 've won."

"We got 2nd,"Albus replied."That 's really good."

"number 1 would 've been better,"Malfoy muttered."I 'm amazed we even got 2d considering how awful you are at practices."

"Better than you,"Albus said."No one liked your praxis on Thursday. Did you notice how no one talked to you today ? They hated it."

"They 're just too used to you coddling them,"Malfoy said, taking a whole tone closer to Albus.

"Well it does n't often matter because I 'm the headwaiter and you 're not,"Albus said as he toyed with his wand, which he was still brandishing in his left paw.

"For now,"Malfoy replied, eyeing Albus 's wand."If you keep getting in trouble I bet they 'll supercede you."

"C'mon, Albus."lustrelessness had appeared next to Albus."Let 's get back to the common room."

"bettor hear to him."Malfoy gave a short jest."You 'd think it 'd the other way around, though. Him attacking me rather than you. But I suppose that would only be in a sure fourth dimension of-"Malfoy glared knowingly at Matt.

"Shut up ! And take that back,"Albus seethed, raising his wand.

"Seriously, Albus, let 's go !"matt grabbed the back of Albus 's robes and pulled him towards the staircase.

"Evil git,"Albus muttered, looking back at the crowd in the entryway Charles Martin Hall. Malfoy was already gone."Why does he always have to bring it up like that ?"

"It does n't matter,"Matt said.

"Of course it matters !"Albus said indignantly."It 's insulting !"

"I 'm used to it,"Matt said quietly.

"So what ?"Albus exclaimed."That does n't mean you should let to expend the rest of Hogwarts having him bring it up every day."

"And you hexing him would have solved everything ?"Matt asked."You just would 've gotten another detention."

"Would 've been worth it,"Albus muttered.

"No, it would n't have,"Matt argued."You 've just got to dismiss him. I ignore him."

"I really hope that next year he 's not on my dueling team,"Albus said.

"I do n't think he will. Did n't they go back to House teams for dueling for twenty percent through seventh years this twelvemonth ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Did they ?"Albus asked.

"That 's what one of the sixth class said,"Matt answered.

"Good,"Albus said."Then I just have to suffer through this year."

Albus and mat were the last of their protagonist to get back to Gryffindor, where it appeared that no one was doing homework. James had set a few firework off out the windowpane and everyone was watching them while eating platters upon platters of biscuit.

"What are you lot celebrating ?"Albus asked James as he took a biscuit.

James shrugged."Just the fact that we 've got a Saturday with cipher to do. Well, Cedric, Ben, Nathan, and I that is."

"Where have you two been ?"pink wine asked as she walked up to Albus and Matt. toilet and Kaden were behind her, a biscuit in each script.

"Al nearly got into a duel with Malfoy in the incoming Hall,"Matt explained.

"Albus !"Amanda exclaimed."You ca n't get anymore detention !"

"I know, but he said something really offensive,"Albus said and turned to John."You would 've hexed him."

"What did he say ?"Rose asked.

"He said that he was surprise I was n't attacking him,"Matt said quietly.

"You 're right,"toilet growled."I would 've hexed him."

"See ?"Albus said.

"And I told you that it was n't worth detention over,"flatness repeated.

"But if it continues,"blush wine said,"you 've got to tell Kendrick."

"I 'm not telling Kendrick,"Matt insisted."I think he 's got enough to worry about with the possibility of the entire schooling getting changed if Laurentis wins this election."
***


"Why in the figure of Merlin are we doing detention in the forest ?"Kaden asked at breakfast the observe morning.

"Seriously,"can agreed."That 's not really hold, is it ? The forest is cool. I 've always wanted to go in there."

"Are you two insane ?"Amanda asked."There 's all sorts of creatures in there."

"My baby did custody in the woodland once,"lusterlessness said."She had to harvest these plants Slughorn needed and they could only be harvested the night of the full moon."

"Well that 's one detention you 'll never have to do."John laughed.

"Maybe we have to reap some other kind of plant ?"Matt suggested, ignoring John 's comment.

"Dunno."Albus shrugged. The letter they 'd received had not gone into specifics. It just stated that they were to fulfil Hagrid near his hut at three that afternoon.

"At least you 're not going at night,"Rose pointed out.

The few hours Albus and his friends had until detention went by rather quickly. They spent the hours in the park elbow room alternating doing homework while participating in very tumid rounds of Exploding snatch with nearly all of Albus and Rose 's first cousin. Everyone was covered in ash by the sentence three o'clock rolled around and the son had to run up to their dormitory to wash their faces before heading down to Hagrid 's hut.

Albus liked Hagrid. He had known the half-giant since he was little and was slightly confused as to how detention with Hagrid could possibly be considered detention. Perhaps Professor Kendrick was unaware that Albus and his friends visited Hagrid every so often and savor spending sentence with him.

Hagrid was already exterior when Albus and the other three boys arrived, armed with his crossbow and Fang by his side. Albus swallowed hard upon seeing the crossbow. Did Hagrid really think they would need that ?

"'Ello, boys !"Hagrid greeted them."Fairly childlike detention today. We 'll be collectin'unicorn fundament hairs."

"Like getting them from unicorns ?"Kaden asked."I thought they did n't like boys."

Hagrid gave a booming laugh."No, no, Kaden. It 'd be a crime to submit 'em right from the unicorn, wouldn'it. No, we 'll be gettin''em from bushes and trees. As the unicorns run past they get snagged. Let 's get goin'."

fang let out a loud bark as they made their way to the woodland. Collecting unicorn hair's-breadth. That was n't bad at all. But still, it was the timber and that was where Washburn and Willinson had spent a lot of their time the previous class. They would n't be back there, would they ? Obviously Washburn and Quinton Willinson were in Azkaban, but what about Quinton 's Father of the Church ? Where was he ?

"What do we need unicorn pilus for ?"John asked as they entered the timber."No one here makes wands."

"Used for a lot more than'n wands, aren'they,"Hagrid answered."Potions, mostly. Tha 's what we need 'em for. Seventh eld are brewing somethin'that needs unicorn haircloth so professor Kendrick volunteered you four to collect 'em. Slughorn 's too old to do it himself."

"That 's for surely,"John muttered to Albus.

It was very dark in the forest, despite the fact that it was day. All four male child lit their verge and Hagrid 's garden pink umbrella was providing more lighting than two scepter combined. Hagrid had told them that they would n't find any hair until they were at least fifteen minute of arc into the forest since unicorns rarely ventured near the edge.

The forest was very dense and it was difficult for them to walk next to each early. Soon, they were forced to walk exclusive Indian file through a very minuscule track that was riddled with tree branches and rocks. Albus stumbled every so often and Matt managed to fall over three times before anyone found any unicorn tail hair. Galloping hooves could be heard in the length and Albus figured they were centaurs. His dad had told him that there was a herd of centaur in the wood, although Albus had never seen one before.

"Here we are,"Hagrid said after what had been at least a twenty min walk. He gestured to a nearby bush."Jus'have a look around here and I 'm sure we 'll find mickle. This is a known field where unicorns live. Don'wander too far."

Hagrid had provided them all with bucketful in which to garner the hair. Albus set off for the nigh pubic hair and found a few hair snagged in the ramification.

"finale detention,"John said as he worked alongside Albus."Thank Merlin."

"Speak for yourself,"Matt called out from a tree a few beat away.

"Do you screw what you have to do for your next one ?"Albus asked.

"Lines, all three Nox,"Matt said."Easier, I suppose, than coming up with anything else when it 's just me."

"Better than cleaning bathrooms again. Or digging up dragon dung,"Kaden said."Whoa, I just found a whole clump of hair."

After they 'd been working for a one-half hour Hagrid decided that they 'd collected enough. They set off re-tracing their steps through the timberland. Albus found it a little lupus erythematosus shuddery on the base on balls back and he was n't sure whether it was because he had gotten used to the noises or because he could see the sunlight at the edge. He was very relieved to find that he did not see Jarrett Willinson anywhere in the forest, although now that the detainment was passed he realized that Willinson would n't go back there now that the Resurrection Stone was no longer there. No, Willinson was most belike still in Commonwealth of Australia, where no one was looking for him. At least, Albus hoped he was.


Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed ! You guys are awesome ! Sorry for the lack of updates lately. NaNo gave way to a frantic finishing of all the papers I 'd neglected during Nov. But I won NaNo and division are over so I 'm hoping to get a thoroughly bit of writing done within the next month.


The in conclusion few weeks of November provided the Hogwarts students and faculty with a much needed stop of equanimity. The next election argumentation would not hire place until December and the the censorship at Hogwarts theme seemed to deliver died out, with the Daily prophesier no longer publishing articles on it. Both Quidditch and dueling tournaments were over for the terminus, leaving the student with a bit to a greater extent time to devote to their field. The next Hogsmeade visit was scheduled for the second Saturday in December, a week before terminal figure ended.

Albus enjoyed the monotony of those few weeks. His days were filled with homework, Quidditch practice, and dueling praxis. Team seven was very happy to have Albus back as their captain and most continued to discount Malfoy during drill. Malfoy still reserved a special glare of hatred for Albus and his admirer, but he did not attempt to set forth anymore duel in the corridor, like he had after the dueling tourney.

December arrived with a pull the wool over someone's eyes storm that caused the Ravenclaw Quidditch team to cancel two of their drill. This gave Fred the opportunity to book the rake for two redundant practices, something that earned him a level-headed dose of U-No-Poo in his morning pumpkin juice courtesy of James and Bradley. Albus was glad to see that the job of schooling prankster had been rightfully returned to James and his friends. The week of detainment had certainly dissuaded Albus from planning anymore harlequinade. The like could not be said for John and Kaden, who were plotting something, although Albus did not know what.

Albus, Matt, and Amanda spent the first Saturday of December ignoring their homework in the Marauder 's Den. The Slytherin squad had the rake for the integral day, which gave Albus a much needed time out from Quidditch. John and Kaden 's location would probably only be found with the predator 's Map and pink wine was tutoring in the library.

There was a loud squawk from outside the room, which was rosiness 's signal that she was alfresco and wished to be let in. Albus got up from his game of Gobstones and let her in. She dropped her bag unceremoniously on the story and flopped down on the couch.

"I 'm upset about Elsie,"pink wine said.

"Elsie ..."Albus prompted.

"Elsie Willinson !"she exclaimed."The number one year I 've been tutoring all year."

"Oh yeah, the one with the cretin for a brother and a cousin and uncle who want to bring back Voldemort. Yeah, I 'd be worried, too,"Albus said as he returned to his game.

"No, I 'm not worry about her stupid brother. I 'm interest about her."

"What, is she still failing all her issue ?"Matt asked.

"No, she 's actually doing a lot better,"Rose said."She 's just very quiet. She never talks about anything other than homework-"

"Sounds like you."Albus turned around and grinned at his first cousin."Although you 're not quiet."

"I 'm grievous, Albus,"blush wine said flatly."Her brother walks her to the library for our Sessions and then picks her up when we 're done. I never see her with anyone other than him and occasionally Malfoy. I 've never seen her eat with anyone former than them, either."

"That is kind of strange,"Amanda said.

"See ?"Rose said."Amanda thinks it 's weird."

"So she 's shy."Albus shrugged."I just do n't see what it 's got to do with you."

"It does n't really,"rose said quietly."But if she 's having issues. We all know about her sept. If her buddy 's keeping an eye on her there must be a reason."

Albus had n't thought about it that way. What if Felix Willinson was trying to save an eye on his babe ?"If she 's doing something her family does n't wish I bet she 's going against something they want."

"That 's what I thought,"Rose agreed."Which means she 's trying to do something good. Or he 's trying to make sure she does n't spill family secrets."

"You think they have more than family enigma than just wanting Voldemort back ?"matt asked.

"Of course they do,"Rose said."We only found out utmost yr that they were related by marriage to Lubar. I mean, you never would 've guessed that in first base or mo year."

flatness shuddered."Probably a estimable thing that I did n't. I probably would have refused to come to Hogwarts."

"Most pure-blooded families like them have grim enigma,"Albus said as he fiddled with a Gobstone. It squirted him in the face and he rubbed the liquid on his robes."The single that want the blood to rest saturated and shove. Like the Malfoys."

"And I 'd bet my last Galleon that Elsie Willinson found out one of those secrets and wants to tell someone,"Rose stated.

"You think it 's got to do with what they 're trying to do ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm sure it does."

"The only trouble for them is that Jarrett 's on his own now,"Amanda said."With the other two in jail, what 's he going to do ?"

"You 're forgetting about Lubar,"Matt said darkly.

rosebush got up and started walking around the room."To be good, I do n't know how a great deal he 's going to be involved, especially if this going to take seat in Britain. Think about it, last year he had the exculpation of the tourney to be here. He 's got no self-justification this year. He 's a Ministry official. A horrid one, but still a Ministry official. It 's not in his practiced involvement to be trying to bring in back Voldemort."

"That did n't even work,"Albus cut in."They ca n't take him back, even a ghost of him, with the Resurrection Stone."

"Jarret Willinson was a Ministry official,"flatness pointed out.

"He was a secretary for the Obliviator office. That 's a little different from a drumhead military position,"Rose explained."Lubar has More to lose."

"I say we try and figure out what Elsie 's keeping secret and I bet it 'll have something to do with what Willinson is planning now. Because I guarantee he 's planning something,"Albus decided.

"How are we going to do that ?"Amanda asked."She 's always with Felix."

"Not when Rose is tutoring her."Albus turned to rose wine."You think you could try and get her to open up ?"

"well she 's not going to just follow out and enjoin me. I can try, but it 'll take a while,"rosebush said.
***


Albus told John and Kaden about the conversation about Elsie later that night. John proclaimed that he knew something had been weird about that girl from the mo they had seen her at the offset of the year. Both boys agreed that they needed to find out what it was she was keeping secret. Albus then asked them what prank they were planning, but John and Kaden mysteriously went quietly as soon as Albus brought the topic up.

Albus laid awake that night for a long time thinking about Elsie Willinson. He could not throw off the image of her with Felix and Malfoy in the outset of the year from his thinker. She had looked so timid and guiltless, far too inexperienced person and Pres Young to be involved with anything like what her family was involved with. In fact, she reminded him a bit of Lily, although he was n't sure why since Lily was anything but timid.

break of day arrived shortly after Albus had fallen asleep and despite the fact that he 'd only gotten a few 60 minutes sleep, he got up around six and decided to get a bit of reading done in the park room. He knew he would n't be able to hang back asleep.

Upon arriving in the rough-cut way, Albus thought he was still dreaming. He rubbed his eye and pinched himself to try and wake up, but it was no use. He was in fact awake. The picture before his centre was rattling, and it was afflictive to look at.

The Gryffindor common elbow room was no longer red and gold. It was now decked out in putting surface and silver. The comfy lounge and chairs were gone and had been replaced instead with banner schoolroom death chair. various banners were hung up in the room that depicted snake. In fact, the Gryffindor common way now looked exactly as Albus imagined the Slytherin uncouth elbow room to appear, except for it not being under the lake.

However, the sheer Slytherin-ness of the common room was not the weirdest change, by a retentive shot. The strangest new gain to the Gryffindor vernacular room was a grey and white goat. It was standing in the centre of the room, its brain down and buried in a account book. The thing about butt, though, was that they did not love books the way people did. Goats ate books. This goat was currently munching on The measure Christian Bible of Spells : Grade Two. Albus 's heart drifted from the goat and around the way again, where he now noticed remnants of other Christian Bible, quills, prep, and even a cloak.

The Capricorn the Goat looked up and stared at Albus. It let out a bleat and then went back to the Good Book. Albus crept a lilliputian airless and noticed that a mark was affixed to the goat. It said 'The Gryffindor Goat : Gryffindor 's new mascot. Gifted by the Slytherins. following time, think twice about putting chickens in our vernacular room .'

Albus stood in the middle of the room, his stare alternating from the goat to the Federal Reserve note and back again. A goat ? That did n't even prepare any sense. Not only that, they were clearly trying to replicate John Lackland and Kaden 's caper. And changing the room into a Slytherin room ? It was horrifying, absolutely horrifying.

Albus tore his heart away from the goat and ran back up the coil stairway until he got to his own dormitory. He flicked on the lights and Ethan, the lightest wagon-lit of the bunch, rolled over and groaned.

"Everyone get up !"Albus shouted."Up, get up !"

"What ?"Ethan asked shortly."It 's like six in the morning !"

"I know it 's six in the morning !"Albus replied."Get up and go down to the common way. Now."

Ethan slowly got out of bed and went over to Bilius 's bed to get him up. Albus woke John up and then the two of them woke flatness up while Bilius and Ethan went down to the vernacular way. Their shout of wrath could be heard all the way in the dormitory.

"What is it ?"John asked as he and Matt followed Albus back down the stairs.

"The Slytherins have had their revenge,"Albus said, handing John the musical note.

Albus took a detour to the third twelvemonth 's student residence to get Kaden up. Kaden 's roomy got up as well and soon there was a large crowd in the common room. By the time Albus entered the room again, the kickoff, second, and sixth long time were all there. The seventh and fifth long time were right behind him.

The uncouth room was in chaos. James, Cedric, and Nathan were inspecting the stooge. The prefects were all congregated in one spot, clearly trying to envision out what to do. A fourth of the students were standing glacial, with feeling of revulsion on their faces. Another one-fourth were laughing, despite the fact that the prank had happened in Gryffindor. Hugo was wrestling the butt for the transcript of the Standard rule book of charm : Grade Two, which evidently was his.

The girls'residence hall door opened and all the Gryffindor girls flooded out of it. Rose and Amanda made their way over to Albus and the relief of the son, who were receiving numerous stares and glares from their fellow student. Clearly a few of them were blaming Albus and his friends for the Slytherins'indigence for revenge.

"What in the name of Merlin happened ?"rosebush asked.

John handed her the note."The Slytherins have had their revenge."

"Malfoy ?"Amanda asked.

"No way to know, is there ?"Albus replied.

"It 's got to be, though,"John said."No one else hates us like he does."

"I bet a lot of Slytherins wanted retaliation,"Rose said.

"All right, silence everyone !"Albus 's cousin, Mark, shouted over the crowd. He was one of the sixth class Prefects."You 're all to get back up to your dormitories. I 'm going to fetch Professor Longbottom. Who 's the one who first saw this ?"

"I did,"Albus announced.

Mark sighed, as if cerebration he should cause known."Al, stay down here. The rest of you, back upstair.

rose wine handed Albus the note back and she and the rest of Albus 's champion turned to go back to their dormitories. There was a general grumble and whispers as everyone left. Soon, the common way was empty except for Albus, the goat, and the six Prefects. mug left in order to go get prof Longbottom.

The Prefects whispered amongst themselves while Mark was gone. Albus stood off to the side, as he did not know the Prefects very well. He recognized a few as ally of his full cousin.

Mark returned ten minutes later with Professor Longbottom in tow. The herbology professor froze in mid-step when he entered the room. His gaze shifted from the new piece of furniture to the Goat to the banners and back to the goat.

"Albus discovered it,"Mark said.

Longbottom turned to Albus."And it looked like this when you found it ?"

"Mostly,"Albus answered."The goat had been chewing on one of Hugo 's Bible so he took that. And someone 's cloak had been here, but it was a Gryffindor cloak."

Longbottom sighed."All right wing, Albus, you can go back up to your dormitory."He turned to the Prefects."Let 's go through all this and see if we can ascertain any hint to fancy out who it was."

Albus reluctantly went back up to his dormitory, where he found not only all of his roommates but Kaden as well, discussing the japery. They all turned to Albus when he entered.

"breakthrough anything out ?"Gospel According to John asked.

"Nope,"Albus answered."The Prefects are helping professor Longbottom go through everything for clues."

The boys whiled away the time until breakfast by trading chocolate Gaul lineup, playing round of Exploding child's play, and discussing the Quidditch time of year. Matt fell back asleep after defending the shank to everyone else, but no one else was able to go back to bed.

Mark knocked on their doorway a few hours later and told them they were unloosen to get up and go to breakfast. Albus woke mat up and the boy went back down to the unwashed room. It looked normal once more. All remnants of the Slytherins were gone and the caprine animal was nowhere in passel. The schoolroom chairs had disappeared and the even comfy couches were back. Albus was relieved to see their common way back to its usual state, although that did null to fulfill his curiosity about who had done it.

"curiosity what they did with the goat,"Kaden said as they walked down tot he Great Hall.

"Probably gave it to Aberforth,"Matt said.

"Aberforth ?"Kaden asked.

"Dumbledore 's brother. He owns the Hog 's Head in Hogsmeade. dungeon goats in his pub. Weird bloke,"mat answered.

"He keeps Capricorn ? In his pub ?"Kaden repeated."Do they just wander around ?"

"Yeah,"Matt said.

The Great Hall was populated only by Gryffindor students, which did not surprise Albus in the svelte given the early hour and the fact that it was Lord's Day. The professors were all up having breakfast and were whispering amongst themselves. No dubiousness that Longbottom had told them about the prank. Slughorn in especial looked enervate.

rosebush convinced the rest of the radical that it would be a good melodic theme to channelise to the library after breakfast to adopt advantage of the fact that it would be empty. Albus had a few essays that he 'd neglected and Saint John and Kaden needed to make up some new forecasting for Trelawney.

After a few hour of studying Albus felt his attention first to wander. The library had filled up since they had arrived and ma'am Pince was watching over the place like a hawk. The door opened and Albus was surprised to see Elsie Willinson base on balls in, followed by her brother and Scorpius. Scorpius 's oculus met Albus 's and he veered from his lilliputian radical in order to waltz over to Albus.

"How 's your coarse way ?"he asked with a smirk.

"Is that a confession ?"Albus replied as he stood up.

"Of course not. It 's all over the school. Everyone knows that your common room looked like an extension of mine this cockcrow. And that goat, I heard it ate a few books. Serves you right after what you lot did to ours,"Malfoy said.

"We know you did it, Malfoy,"John said."Just waiting for the professors to prove it."

"If I did do it, and I 'm not saying I did, I would n't let left any grounds like you idiots obviously did."

"We did n't,"trick said flatly."Albus confessed to keep open his cousin-german and Brother who had been wrongly accused."

"How noble."Malfoy laughed.

"Just tell me one affair,"Albus said."How did you get into the rough-cut way ?"That was what had been bothering Albus the most. He and his friends had used the Invisibility Cloak to enter out the Slytherin parole, but how had Malfoy done it ? As far as he knew he did not have an Invisibility Cloak.

"I did n't,"Malfoy said."And if I did I would n't tell you how I did it."With one to a greater extent brilliance at Albus, the Slytherin walked away towards the tabular array that Felix and Elsie had found.

"How did he get into our common room ?"Albus asked as he sat back down.

"No melodic theme,"Matt said.

"I 'm betting he threatened a low gear class into telling him what it was,"John said."Would n't put it past him."

"You do n't know it was him,"Amanda pointed out.

"They 're never going to find out who it was, either,"Rose said."Not unless they confess like you did. Otherwise no one would 've found out it was you."

"Guess it does n't really matter at this point."Albus sighed."They 've had their revenge."

"Which means it 's prison term for ours,"Kaden said as he grinned at John.

rosebush groaned."Really ? It 's just going to turn into a huge prank war if you have revenge."

"That 's the full stop,"John replied.

If john and Kaden were trying to start a buffoonery war Albus did n't want any component of it. He had had enough detention for a lifetime and did not desire outlay anymore of his Hogwarts career scrubbing bathrooms or doing lines. Albus sighed and returned to his reading. John and Kaden got up and left the program library, presumably to work on their succeeding prank.

Later that day at dinner Professor Kendrick gave a very stern speech to the entire schooltime about breaking rules, especially the normal about not entering common room that were not yours. It was very alike to the lecture he gave after the poulet prank, except this time Albus could tell that the headmaster was even more than angry. Albus kept glancing at Malfoy during the speech but the Slytherin boy did not attend guilty at all. In fact he seemed disinterested in Kendrick 's speech.

The talk of Gryffindor 's laughingstock ( as the prank had now been dubbed ) died down by the heart of the hebdomad. Most of the castle was excited about the upcoming Hogsmeade trip and then the wintertime holidays. Professor Longbottom sent around a sign-up sheet for those pupil who wished to stay household during the holiday, although none of Albus 's friends signed it.

"I 've always wondered what it would be like to stay,"Saint John said as professor Longbottom passed by.

"Me too,"Albus agreed."But my parents already said I ca n't this class since there 's some big Ministry Christmas party we 've got to go to. For the election and all."

"Lapp here,"matt said."We 're not even going to Commonwealth of Australia because of it."

"Wow, that 's the 2d twelvemonth in a row,"Albus replied.

lustrelessness nodded."My grandparents are coming here and then we 're visiting them over the summer."

"I think we should all stay future year,"Kaden said."Then I can go a all school class without seeing my grandparents. Or aunty Marge."

Albus agreed that that was a undecomposed understanding to outride at Hogwarts over the holiday."Yeah, that would be fun. My dad says the castle 's great at Christmas."

"It would be interesting to see what Christmas is like,"Amanda said. Amanda 's family was Judaic and celebrated Hanukkah.

"You 're welcome to come up to our grandparents'house for Christmas this year,"rose suggested.

Amanda grinned."I 'll ask my parents. I 'm sure they 'll say yes since Festival of Lights was early this year and I 've already missed it anyway."

"pink wine, you 've got position,"Albus said, gesturing to rose 's family 's owl, which had just landed on the table.

"Oh, good !"Rose said as she ripped open the letter. She scanned it for a moment before smiling widely."I wo n't be going to Hogsmeade with you."

"You wo n't be ?"Albus gave her a questioning look.

"No. Mum and Dad are taking me to the debate that 's that day. I owled them a few days ago to see if I could go and they said yes !"

"You want to go to another one ?"John asked.

"I 'd go to all of them if I could. They 're just so fascinating."She scanned the letter again."I 'm supposed to to to Kendrick 's cogitation at ten on Saturday to floo home."

"What 's this one on ?"Albus asked.

"Law enforcement. The Auror department. How it 's run and and how trials are run. I think it 's going to be the most occupy one since both Uncle Percy and Laurentis have already hinted at their horizon on that topic."

That was for surely. This debate would probably be even more volatile than the one on educational activity."You 'll have to let us do it all the details,"Albus said.

"Oh I will,"Rose replied."It 's why I wanted to go. I 'd rather not learn everything sec handwriting from the Prophet."

She had a item there, Albus thought. Although he was glad that Rose was the one going and not him. As much as he thought the election was interesting, he 'd rather be in Hogsmeade with his friends than sitting in a courtroom listening to pol all day.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this so far ! I 'm almost done with school day ( forever ! ) so I 'm hoping to update more than often.


The calendar week leading up to the Hogsmeade head trip dragged by very slowly. Albus was certain that Wednesday in particular was at least twice as long as a normal day and by the clock time Friday finally decided to nominate an show Albus was sure he would go insane from all the homework he had to discharge. Tuesday had been the full synodic month, but luckily matte left the hospital wing Th good afternoon and had been cleared by Madam Pomfrey to go to Hogsmeade.

When Saturday arrived there was a welcomed break in the snowstorm that had blanketed the Hogwarts grounds in two feet of Snow. Albus and his friends slept recent and by the time they woke up Rose had already left to go to that day 's debate. Albus, Matt, and John quickly dressed and met Kaden and Amanda in the common room.

Fred accosted Albus as he was about to pass on."Albus ! Glad I found you. I booked the slant for today at three since there 's a pause in the storm."

"But Fred, it 's Hogsmeade today,"Albus pointed out. As a lot as he loved Quidditch, Hogsmeade stumble were rare occasions and he had Christmas shopping to do.

"Exactly !"Fred exclaimed."So none of the other squad have booked the lurch. It 's booked satisfying the balance of the week and we need another drill in before break starts."

Albus sighed. Fred was correctly, of path. He glanced at his ticker. It was noon, so if they hurried through lunch he would still have a respectable two 60 minutes in the village."All right hand. I 'll see you at three."

"Excellent,"Fred said."Just cause to find James ...."

Amanda snorted and started laughing. Fred, who had turned to bequeath, stopped and looked back at her."What ?"

Albus, John, Matt, and Kaden also looked questioningly at Amanda.

"Oh, I guess I forgot to tell you,"Amanda began."Rose and I were in the subroutine library shoemaker's last week and overheard James II asking some Hufflepuff fifth year out. They 're going to Hogsmeade together today."

Fred burst out laughing."Wait, James River has a day of the month ?"

"James asked a girl out in the program library ?"Albus joined Fred in his laughter.

"Do n't distinguish him that Rose and I overheard him,"Amanda said."He 'd polish off us if he knew it was us who told."

"Bet he 's already in Hogsmeade, then,"Fred said, still laughing."They well not be in lady Puddifoot 's because I do n't envision going in there to order him about practice."

Albus was still laughing about the mind of James asking a girl out in the library of all places. He wondered who the Hufflepuff was. Maybe he 'd manage to see a glimpse of them in Hogsmeade together.

"He 's not actually going to leave her to go to Quidditch practice,"Amanda shouted after Fred as he left the rough-cut room.

"He will if the date 's going poorly,"Fred shouted back and disappeared into the corridor.

"wellspring let 's hurry up and get to Hogsmeade,"Albus said."I want to see if I can image out who this little girl is."

Albus hurried out of the common room followed by his friends. They ate a very rushed lunch in the Great antechamber and then ran outside and down the route to Hogsmeade. As they neared the small town Albus kept his middle peeled for his chum.

"Where to first ?"Matt asked.

"Weasleys',"toilet and Kaden said together.

Albus and flatness shared a coup d'oeil. They should take in known. They followed Saint John and Kaden as the two wicked boys led the way to Weasleys'sorcerer Wheezes.

The shop was packed to capacity as it always was on Hogsmeade weekends. Albus waved to his Uncle George who was behind the counter ringing people up as fast as the till would let him. shimmy was working that weekend and was restocking a shelf of Skiving Snackboxes. St. John and Kaden each grabbed two as the male child passed.

Albus grabbed a few extendable spike as his seemed to have disappeared and a box of Deluxe whizzbang for James for Christmas. He joined the longsighted queue at the till and was joined by King John and Kaden who each had limb overflowing with product. lustrelessness and Amanda were n't buying anything and were playing with a few Pygmy Puffs that were in a batting cage in the front of the computer memory.

"Neither of you have seen James, have you ?"Albus asked.

"Nope,"John said."Bet they 're at the leash Broomsticks."

"Or that place that Fred mentioned. Madam whatever ?"Kaden put in.

"Madam Puddifoot 's,"Albus said."Horrifying place. Covered in ruffled things, and tap stuff."

"Let 's not go there,"Kaden said.

Albus and whoremonger both agreed. They would look for James River, just not at dame Puddifoot 's. The waiting line moved relatively quickly and soon Albus, Saint John the Apostle, and Kaden had their provision.

The next plosive was Honeyduke 's where everyone stocked up on candy and Albus bought a Christmas present for Lily. Then they made their way to the Quaffle Shop and then the trey broomstick. Albus had yet to see James I, but his time was quickly running out. He had a one-half 60 minutes before he had to manoeuvre back to the castle for Quidditch practice.

John went to the bar to get five Butterbeers while the rest of the mathematical group found a table. Luckily Scorpio Malfoy was nowhere in survey. Albus gazed around the bar until he spotted his brother 's familiar red hair. Unfortunately the girl he was with was facing away from Albus 's mesa so all he knew was that she had very long, very straight brown whisker.

"There they are,"Albus whispered to Matt, Kaden, and Amanda."Any of you know who the little girl is ?"

"That 's Gabby Ellis,"John the Evangelist said as he returned with the Butterbeers."My cousin knows her. She 's one of the 5th class prefects."

"waiting, so James not only asked her out in the library, but she 's also a prefect ?"Albus exclaimed.

"guessing so."lav shrugged."I 'll never ask out a prefect. Now he 's going to cause to watch his step."

"You realize that there 's a honest chance one of us might be a prefect succeeding year,"Amanda pointed out.

"Nah, they 'll pick Bilius or Ethan,"John said."They 'd never pick me, Al, or Matt after that prank."

"Well Rose is obviously going to be a prefect,"Amanda said.

"We 'll just have to sneak around more next year,"whoremonger said."Ca n't experience a prefect knowing about our pranks."

"Dervish and Banges is still unoccupied,"Matt said, changing the subject."Do n't you think that 's sort of odd ?"

Albus had n't really thought about it."Yeah, but no one 's going to want to buy a shop where someone was murdered."

"Still, it 's just strange,"Matt said as he sipped his Butterbeer.

"Someone might still own it,"Amanda pointed out."They might not need to do anything with it or sell it."

"Guess that 's a good point,"Matt said.

"Look, James and the girl are getting up,"Kaden said.

Albus turned and saw that James was indeed rising from his hot seat. Gabby did as well and the two of them walked side by side out of the pub. Gabby was pretty, Albus had to take. Her optic were bright and her cheeks were pink. James was grinning. Neither of them noticed Albus or the others on their way out the door.

"Think he 'll register to Quidditch practice ?"John asked.

"If he values his life,"Albus replied."oral presentation of that, I should probably get going."

Albus said goodbye to his booster and headed back out into the low temperature. The sun was out and there was no fart, but it was still bitingly coldness. He trudged his way through the Baron Snow of Leicester and back up to the rook, where he ran up to Gryffindor tug to drop off his purchases and change into his Quidditch robes.

The repose of the squad was already on the pitch when Albus arrived. Fred was arguing with Epistle of James about something while the rest of the team stood off to the side.

"She 's not even on their squad !"James IV shouted."She 's not going to slip any of our plays."

"But she 's still a Hufflepuff and this is a closed practice !"Fred argued.

Albus glanced over to the stall and saw Gabby sitting there, wrapped in a very large Hufflepuff blanket. She smiled and waved at Albus, who gave a slight wafture back.

"I could n't just bequeath her. I promised we 'd spend the day together."

"And she wants to watch you play Quidditch ?"Fred asked."Fine, mulct. She can stay. Let 's just get going. We 're wasting time."

Fred and James joined the rest of the group."All right !"Fred shouted."Let 's fly around the pitch a few time to get warm up."

Albus mounted his broom and soared into the air. He joined the rest of the squad in their flight around the sales talk and lost himself in flying. It was nice to just fly and block about everything else that was on his judgment.

The practice went incredibly well. It was their dependable practice session in weeks since the weather was cooperating. The Gryffindor team did not feature any result with playing, but the atmospheric condition was usually awful whenever they practiced. Fred insisted this was a good thing since it would help them learn how to play in matches with bad conditions but no one else agreed. Albus was very happy to have a practice where the shape were ideal. It made Quidditch so much more enjoyable.

Jesse James and Gabby hurried off as soon as exercise ended and the rest period of the squad walked back to the rook together. They were nearly back to Gryffindor tower when rose wine, Matt, trick, Kaden, and Amanda came running towards Albus, all five looking slightly terrified.

"What 's wrong ?"Fred asked.

"It 's aught,"Rose said."We just need to talk to Albus."

"meet us in the room after you stash your broom,"Matt whispered and the five of them hurried off.

Albus hurried into the vulgar room and up to his dormitory. He had absolutely no melodic theme what was going on, but it must give just had to do with his Quaker because everyone else in the common room was acting normally. Albus quickly put his broom away and ran back out to the corridor.

It did n't make him long to reach the marauder 's Den. All his friends were sitting quietly and looked up at him when he entered.

"What in the name of pigeon hawk is going on ?"Albus asked.

"Two thing,"rosiness began."One, the debate. It was ... well ... insane is the only word to describe it, really. And two, I 'll let everyone else explain that first."

"Malfoy was lurking near the Shrieking Shack,"flatness said."After you went to Quidditch practice we walked around the hamlet and noticed him. It looked like he was trying to get in."

"Did he ?"Albus asked.

"No, he ca n't,"lustrelessness said."There 's Montgomery Ward. It 's just odd. He was alone."

"Energy he know that that 's where you go ?"Albus replied as he sat down future to Rose.

matt shook his drumhead."I 'm not really disturbed about it, either. It 's just very weird."

"Malfoy is admirer with Felix Willinson so anything weird that he does need to be remembered,"Albus said darkly.

"That 's what I said,"King John replied.

"He 's not the foremost one to be curious about the screaming shanty,"Matt pointed out.

This was dissimilar, Albus thought. He would have expected flatness to be the one worried about this, not John.

"But he 's Malfoy ! It 's not good that he 's trying to get in,"John said.

"wellspring he ca n't get in. And he already knows what I am,"Matt countered."Let 's just forget about it for now. What rosiness has to say is far worse."

Albus turned to look at Rose, who looked overturn and slightly scared. That was strange in itself since Albus could hardly remember a meter when Rose was scared.

"The debate was on law enforcement,"Rose said quietly."She wants to completely change the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. She wants to enquire every 1 Auror and reorganize the section because she does n't recollect things are working as they are. She ... well ... she basically called your dad incompetent."

Albus stared at his cousin. He could not believe what he was hearing. Albus 's dad had been in bursting charge of the Auror department for years and there had never been any charge. How could Laurentis just diss him like that ?

"Which means she 's going to suffer,"John said confidently."No one 's going to vote for someone who insults Harry Potter."

"No,"Rose whispered."They will. There 's been newspaper column in the prophesier for workweek about how the current Ministry is n't working. She has support."

"That 's insane,"Albus said."What did Uncle Sir Henry Percy do ?"

"Argued with her,"pink wine said."Talked about all the good your dad has done, but she argued mighty back."

"What about everyone there ? Did they clap for her ?"Albus asked.

"Everyone clapped for everyone. They were all polite about it and there was no way to tell who supported who,"Rose said."If you ask me, I think she 's going to replace all the Heads of departments who do n't agree with her. She 's going to want people in superpower who are on her side."

"Which means my dad will be gone,"Albus said."Everyone knows he supports Uncle Percy. It 's obvious."

"So that leaves what, Matt 's dad 's job, headland of Magical Law Enforcement, principal of Magical shipping, and what else ?"King John asked as he counted on his digit."There 's got to be more."

"There are,"rose wine said as she stood up and began pacing around the room."International Magical Cooperation, Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, Magical biz and Sports, and then the section of Mysteries."

"Do you know anything about the Heads of those departments ?"John asked.

"The lady who 's headland of Magical Law Enforcement was here during the debate. She 's really old and Dad says Mum is a shoe-in for her job when she retires,"rosebush said."But I do n't know much about the others. The feller in rush of Magical fare moderated the first debate."

"That 's eight spot,"matte said quietly,"and she could substitute all of them. That would wind up being an entirely new Ministry."

"Essentially, yes,"Rose said as she sank into an armchair."That 's why it 's so bad. There 's a intellect most newly elected diplomatic minister do n't supervene upon everyone. It 's too a great deal excitement. But if she wants quick change, it would be the easiest way to get it done."

"What 's the adjacent disputation on ?"Amanda asked.

"Azkaban,"rosiness said."Originally they were going to debate Azkaban with law enforcement, but Laurnetis requested a separate Azkaban disputation. She 's in charge of it, so I 'm not surprised."

"And when is it ?"Amanda replied.

"Just after the new twelvemonth,"Rose answered."Once we 're all back in school. Then Feb 's debate is on magical creatures-"

"Oh that 's going to be good,"matt said."Guess that 's when we 'll find out if my dad keeps his job after the election if she wins."

"And then in border district they debate International Magical Cooperation. Then it 's the election at the beginning of Apr,"Rose continued."That one is going to take post here. So is the Azkaban one."

"I still do n't imagine anyone 's going to vote for her,"John muttered."Anyone who sacks Harry ceramist would n't get enough votes."

"You 'd be surprised, John,"Amanda said."It sounds like she 's playing to everyone 's fears. I mean, I have n't been in the magical earthly concern long, but it seems like everyone fears another Voldemort. If she makes it seem like the stream Ministry and Auror department are too lenient and trace at the possibility of another war, and then claims that she could crush it before it became a war, she would easily get the balloting. people are easily persuaded."

"That 's exactly it,"Rose agreed.

The room descended into uncomfortable silence. At the beginning of the school twelvemonth, none of them had a lot interest group in the election or the Ministry in world-wide, but now, just a few calendar month later, Albus and his friends were learning just how much the result of the election would strike them. The possibility of drastic changes to both Hogwarts and the wizarding cosmos did not sit well with Albus, especially if it meant both his and Matt 's dads were out of a job.
***


The remaining week of school went by quickly. With the looming holidays and suspension from school, hardly anyone in the castle was focusing on prep or the election. Instead, the cackle that filled the Great vestibule during meals was about Christmastime and snowball fights and outlay time with family. Albus was sucked into the Christmas sunshine as well, but the election was still on the back of his mind.

For Albus, blush wine, and the rest of the Weasley/Potter kin group, the Christmastide vacation would be wrapped up in the election. A New Year 's party at the minister of religion 's Mansion was scheduled for New year 's Eve, for all of the upper-level official and their family line, as well as Walker Percy, Laurentis, and their folk. All of Albus 's extended family would be attending. But perhaps the most outre aspect of the holiday was the fact that Uncle Sir Henry Percy was going to allow a reporter from magician powder magazine to follow him for not only the Ministry party, but Noel at the Burrow as well.

"This is just weird !"Cedric exclaimed at breakfast the go day of full term."A reporter ? At the tunnel ? And it says she 's going to be staying with us."

Cedric handed the letter back to Tom Bradley, whom it had been addressed to. Bradley pulled out his wand and burned it, which seemed to be his new way of dealing with post from his father.

"Did grannie agree to this ?"James asked as he loaded his crustal plate with bacon.

"She must 've,"Bradley said."Anything to get Dad elected, probably."

"I kind of agree with her,"Albus said."I do n't want that Laurentis adult female to win."

"Neither do I, but I do n't want some newsman staying with us at the Burrow,"Cedric said adamantly.

"Guess you wo n't be getting the real Weasley Christmas Day experience,"Albus said to Amanda, whose parents had given license to rest with rose for Christmas.

Amanda shrugged."Not a big deal. With your family unit, it 's bound to be interesting."

"You have no thought,"Albus said."We 'd better get to history of Magic."

Albus got up and his friends followed. Despite the fact that it was the last day of term, professor Binns still gave a lecture. Nobody paid him an ounce of attention. The sleep of the professors did n't get at teaching any new material as they figured the pupil would just leave it over the break. professor Cedonia set them a pragmatic lesson, but did n't scold them when they stopped charming their teacups to dance and instead talked about Christmas. Hagrid had a declamatory balefire going to keep them warm up, but did n't instruct anything. Instead, he told the story of Norberta and bawled about how much he missed her. In antediluvian rune, there was an exam.

The following good morning Albus and his booster climbed aboard the Hogwarts expressage for the trip back to London. On the Hogwarts express, Albus felt weirdly resistant to everything that was happening in the wizarding earth. He felt safe from Jarrett Willinson and somehow the election did n't look as big a mickle. The train was like its own little reality with solely scholarly person and dessert from the trolley ; on the train, goose egg bad could happen.


Long suspension ! I apologize for that. I am now working on this for the second one-half of June 's Camp NaNoWriMo, so I 'm hoping to get a bunch of chapters written so I can go back to weekly updates. Thanks so much for all the reviews !


"Remember, do n't say anything in front line of her you do n't desire printed in the article,"Harry said as they walked toward the Burrow.

"volition she really print anything ?"Lily asked.

"Yes,"Harry said.

It was Christmastide Eve and Albus and the eternal sleep of the thrower had just Apparated to the arena behind the burrow. Albus was a bit nervous about being in the presence of a reporter from adept magazine and was not at all lancinating about being in an article. He was relieved they were late, as usual, because by now the reporter would probably be involved in listening to someone else 's conversation and might not even notice Albus.

"And James, do n't even call back about slipping something into her soup,"Ginny said sternly.

Harry, who had just put his hand on the doorknob, turned around and stared at James."Seriously, James, absolutely not."

"I was n't going to !"James said."I swear !"

Harry sighed."Empty your pockets."

"But I was n't going to-"

"James Sirius Potter, listen to your male parent,"Ginny said.

Albus put his hand over his back talk to hide his laugh while his brother pulled a handful of Ton-Tongue toffy and a ampul of Weasleys'Itchiest Itching Powder out of his pocket. Ginny took them and incinerated them with her baton. She brushed the ash onto the footing and James stared at it longingly.

"Shut up, Albus,"James muttered as Harry opened the door.

That just made Albus laugh even harder, earning him a punch in the articulatio humeri from St. James the Apostle. Albus returned the punch while Lily rolled her eyes.

"son, cut it out,"Ginny scolded.

"Ginny ! Harry !"Molly exclaimed as they stepped inside."glad Christmas !"

"Happy Christmas, Mum,"Ginny said as the two hugged.

Albus slipped past after giving his grandmother a quick hug, grabbing a handful of cooky on his way to the den. The first base affair he noticed was that the reporter was sitting on a fecal matter in the corner. She stuck out like a Weasley at a Malfoy gathering, in her ignominious wench, flowery top, high-heeled shoe. Who wore hound to the Burrow ? Weird, Albus idea. Her jet-black hairsbreadth was done up in some sorting of bun and her lips were smeared with vivid red lipstick.

The indorsement thing Albus noticed was just how strip the burrow was. He had n't noticed it in the kitchen, what with the many pots and mantrap full moon of lovesome, steaming food, but out in the den, it was very noticeable. The Burrow was never dirty, exactly, but it was n't immaculately neat like matt and Kaden 's houses were. Instead it merely looked lived in, Albus always thought. It was cluttered with mess of Holy Writ and stacks of board game and various Muggle and magical devices. blanket and pillows were thrown haphazardly onto lounge and chairs, never being folded or stacked neatly. But today, everything was keen. The good deal of books had been shelved and the blankets folded. The sheer amount of material seemed to take in been moved or vanished because Albus did n't see a undivided Muggle electronic device half-taken apart on the floor or board. It was eccentric. The tunnel did n't wait like the burrow without its smother. You never knew what you 'd find at the tunnel and Albus liked that.

Shaking his head slightly, Albus carefully stepped around a few of his cousins and walked over to where pink wine and Amanda were sitting on the floor. They had a large platter of solid food in front of them, making Albus realize how hungry he was.

"So, what have I missed ?"he asked in between bites of roll."I see someone cleaned."

"Gran did. Said she wanted to make up a honest impression. Uncle Percy 's been bragging loudly to the newsman about all the laws he 's serve bye,"rose wine said."But all the reporter wants to do is interview the rest of us. I guess her article is all about where Uncle Percy came from and what his family is like."

"Who 's she talked to so far ?"Albus asked.

"aunty Corrine, Gran, Gramps, Uncle Bill, Uncle Fred, both of my parents, Victoire, Samantha, and Lindy,"Rose said.

"Wow. Already ?"

"She has n't wasted any prison term,"Amanda said.

"There 's a photographer around here somewhere,"blush wine said as she glanced around the elbow room."Oh there he is."

Rose indicated to the stairs, where Percy was leading a scrawny bloke back into the den.

"Is he wearing-"

"apparel plume ?"rosebush said."Yeah, he 's been wearing them all night."

"Let 's get a few injection of you playing a game with the Twin Falls,"the photographer said as he and Percy walked past Albus, Rose, and Amanda.

"Wonderful idea !"the reporter exclaimed as she hopped off her stool.

"How did she hear that ?"Albus whispered to Rose.

"Harry Potter 's son !"the reporter said as she grabbed Albus 's arm, causing him to deteriorate the biscuit he was holding."Let 's get him in the shaft, too. Hmm ..."she glanced around the elbow room, her eyes finally coming to pillow on Amanda."We 'll need a pellet with you and Percy as well. nominee plays Exploding Snap with the Prime Minister 's niece ! Perfect ! I could not have planned this better."

"How did she make love that I 'm the prime quantity Minister 's niece ?"Amanda asked.

"She knows everything,"Rose said darkly."Creepy, really."

Albus soon found himself playing a shit game of Exploding ginger snap with Uncle Sir Henry Percy, Samantha, and Lindy. The whole thing was very ridiculous since none of them were photographed with ash on their faces. Then it was Amanda 's go, but she was posed with a set of thaumaturgist 's Chess,"for variety."

"Now that 's something Laurentis wo n't have,"Percy said jovially after the photographer finished."picture with the blossom Minister 's niece."

"But nobody knows I 'm the flush Minister 's niece,"Amanda said once she, pink wine, and Albus escaped into the kitchen."It 's supposed to be a secret."

"Maybe it wo n't get printed,"Albus said.

"God, I hope not,"Amanda muttered."So is this what Christmas Eve is usually like ?"

"Mostly,"Albus said as he walked over to the doorway. He peered into the den and took stock of what his family was up to.

His uncles Fred, Ron, Bill, and Charlie, were closest to the kitchen and were singing 'Odo the Hero .'All four had sucker of eggnog in bridge player. Gran was listening to Celestina Warbeck while Aunt Fleur glared at the wireless. It seemed to be distracting her from the conversation she was having with auntie Katherine and Aunt Hermione. about of his cousin-german were eating or laughing about one thing or another. Samantha and Lindy were playing Exploding Snap for real now, along with Eddie and Angie.

In fact, the just one who seemed to be acting any differently was Uncle Walker Percy, who was talking with the newsman and the photographer. aunt Corrine was as well, but none of their quondam children were anywhere in good deal.

"have you seen Tom Bradley, Cedric, or GA anywhere ?"Albus asked Rose.

"Actually, no,"pink wine said."Let 's go find them."

Albus and Amanda followed Rose out of the kitchen and up the stairs. As they peered into each bedroom, Albus found out just where his nan had stored all the stuff that used to be in the den. Every bingle room had a pile of random stuff in it. They eventually found their three first cousin hiding out in Uncle Ron 's old bedroom at the top of the mansion. They were sitting on one of the bottom and were deep in conversation.

"What 's going on in here ?"Albus asked as they shut the door.

All three startled, but then seemed relieved to feel it was only Albus, Rose, and Amanda.

"We 're avoiding the reporter,"GA said,"and talking about how much it will take in if Dad gets elected."

"But Laurentis is flaming insane,"Albus said as he stepped over a typewriter and sat down on the contrary bed."Uncle Hotspur has to win."

"Well, I do n't desire him to,"Thomas Bradley said."Do you realize how practically life will deepen if he does ?"

"I 've got a bit of an approximation,"Amanda said, sitting down succeeding to Albus. rose wine sat on his other side.

"Before his campaign started no one really knew what Dad did,"Bradley said."Or even who he was. I mean, if they heard his public figure they would be intimate him, but he was just Sir Henry Percy Weasley. Do you know what I mean ?"

"He 'll be Sir Henry Percy Weasley, Minister of Magic. Not just Percy Weasley, your dad,"Amanda said."government minister is n't a just a job. It 's not something he 'll impart at the place at five. It 's more a lifestyle."

"Exactly !"Bradley agreed.

"And you 'll always be the diplomatic minister 's son,"Amanda said.

"How do you get laid all this ?"Cedric looked at Amanda strangely.

"My Uncle 's the prime of life Minister,"Amanda said casually.

"Of United Kingdom ?"Tom Bradley exclaimed."And you 've kept this private for four long time ?"

"Yeah. It wo n't be for much longer since that photographer just took a photograph of me with your dad,"Amanda said."Anyway, you 're rightfield that your life wo n't be the Lapplander if he gets elected. And even after his term is up you 'll still always be the pastor 's son."

"And we 'd suffer to strike into the diplomatic minister 's mansion house,"Bradley said.

"You would n't. You 're going to graduate in June,"Cedric pointed out."And Georgia already moved out."

"You 'll be in Hogwarts to the highest degree of the year,"Georgia pointed out.

There was a whack on the room access and then it swung wide capable. Hotspur stood in the doorway flanked by the reporter and lensman. Hotspur had changed out of his robes and was now wearing a green Weasley pinny with a red'P'on the social movement. In his weapon was a mess of what appeared to be more Weasley jumpers.

"There you lot are,"Percy said."We 're doing a impression of the whole family in our jumpers."He tossed one to each of his children and then one each to Albus and rosebush."Get changed and get downstairs."

"Are they all initial pinafore this twelvemonth ?"Empire State of the South asked as she held hers up. It was grey with a purpleness'G .'

"mustiness be,"Albus said as he yanked off the sweater he was wearing and pulled on his new one. It was risque with a gold'A .'

"Bet it 's to prepare us depend like a cheesy family,"Bradley muttered as he changed.

Once they 'd all changed Albus and rose followed their full cousin back down to the den. Amanda followed as well, but she lingered on the stair, clearly not wanting to be dragged into anymore photographs.

Albus 's entire syndicate was posed in half the den. The lensman was running around making pocket-sized registration, which Albus thinking was otiose. There was no way he was going to get xxxii people to all look at the camera and smile nicely at the Lapplander time.

The lensman noticed Albus, Rose, Georgia, Bradley, and Cedric and shoved Albus in between James and Lily, who were sitting right in the eye, on the trading floor.

"Lovely !"the photographer exclaimed a few minute of arc later. He ran to the other slope of the room and stuck his head behind the camera."Everyone smile ! Beautiful !"He took dozens of painting and Albus soon grew tired of sitting still and smiling.

"Wonderful !"the reporter shouted once the photographer finally finished."I think we 've got what we need. I wish you all a felicitous Christmas. The article should be out just after New Year's."

"I thought she was staying for tomorrow, too,"Albus whispered to Rose.

Rose shrugged."Maybe she got enough from just one Nox. Either that or she got overwhelmed."

Percy walked the reporter and photographer out of the Burrow, thanking them profusely as he did so.

"Bedtime, everyone !"molly shouted.

No one objected. It had certainly been the foreign Dec 25 Eve gathering the Weasley family had ever had and Albus was very much looking forward to tomorrow, when things would get back to some semblance of normal. Albus walked up to bed with Rose and Amanda, wishing them both full night when they reached Uncle Charlie 's old bedroom, where the two would be staying. James, Ben, Cedric, and Omar Bradley were already in Uncle Ron 's old room when Albus arrived.

"Quidditch tomorrow ?"St. James the Apostle asked as all four boys climbed into their beds.

"You 're going down, thrower,"Thomas Bradley replied.

"Is that a challenge, Weasley ?"

"Sure is,"Bradley said.

Yes, tomorrow would be a lot more convention, Albus thought. Quidditch was a Christmastide tradition for his mob and null, even his uncle running for minister, was going to preclude it.
***


"And that 's how we do it in Kenmare !"Sakartvelo exclaimed, having just saved a goal by spinning in midair and hitting the Quaffle back into play by the end of her Calluna vulgaris."Kenmare Krazy custodian motion !"

"You 're still going to misplace !"Bradley shouted as he hit one of the Bludgers toward Albus, who dodged it and caught the Quaffle."We 've got shimmy !"

"If Teddy were a real seeker he 'd be playing for a conference squad and not studying to be an Auror !"Georgia shouted back.

"He 's still not as soundly as James I,"Bradley said.

"Yeah, I taught James II everything he knows !"shimmy said as he flew by, heading toward Georgia 's left over destination position."And that 's biz !"he shouted, returning with the Snitch clutched in his script."Aurors have to have constant vigilance, just like Seekers."

Albus flew to the reason, still holding the Quaffle. It had been a unspoiled game, even though his team had lost, but the temperature was dropping and the clouds were rolling in. It was a good time to lead back inside for Christmas Day dinner, especially since the scent of roast Republic of Turkey and potatoes had been drifting outside for the past half minute.

board, already covered in numerous bag of food, had been set up in the kitchen extending into the den while they played. Albus hurried upstair to switch and when he returned, everyone was drifting toward the board. Albus hurried to the seat blush wine and Amanda had saved him, which thankfully was nowhere come on Percy.

"How was Quidditch ?"blush wine asked.

"Good,"Albus said."We lost, but shift 's pretty much unbeatable, so I was n't surprised."

"I 'm surprised he did n't play professionally,"Amanda said.

"He thought about it,"Albus explained."And he had crack, but he deferred them for a year because he was n't sure. Then he just decided to join the Auror Academy, because of his parents, you know."

"Makes sense,"Amanda said.

"I 'd like to ready a pledge,"Percy announced after everyone was seated. He held up his glass of pumpkin succus."I just want to say thank you, to all of you, for putting up with the reporter yesterday, and for everything you 've done for the campaign. We only have three months to go, so let 's make the most of it. save up all the great work. Here 's to a win in April !"

Albus clinked trash with Rose and Amanda and then served himself a heavy helping of turkey. This was what he enjoyed the most about Noel at the Burrow. As he he ate, he listened in on the conversations his cousin, auntie, and uncles were having.

To Albus 's left wing, his aunt Hermione was giving St. James, Cedric, and Ben study tips for their O.W.L.s. The boys were nodding as if they were listening, but Albus knew they were n't. Victoire and shift were holding hands under the table, which was kind of funny because Victoire was having to eat with her left hand, a skill she clearly did not own. James, Omar Bradley, and Georgia were discussing Quidditch with Uncles George and Ron. Eddie was showing the twins, Lily, and Hugo just how many peas he could fit into his lip at once. Hotspur was, of course, discussing the granular details of his campaign with his married woman and parents. Fred and stain were telling Angie about the secret passageway that lead into the basement of Honeyduke 's. The rest of his household was too far away for Albus to find out what exactly they were saying, but everyone seemed happy.

"This is what it 's really like,"Albus told Amanda."Usually there are a few pranks."

"You missed one in the first place,"blush wine said while Amanda laughed."James put one of those wind-up Pygmy Puffs in Gran 's grown pot, so while she was chopping veg it jumped out and started screeching. Aunt Ginny knew it was King James I, too. He got chewed out while you were upstairs changing."

"She had no proof !"King James cut in."It could possess been Cedric."

"But it was n't,"Rose said."It was you."

"Saint James the Apostle, did you try me ?"Hermione asked."I was just saying how you need to pop with your decrepit matter kickoff. Honestly, you should 've started preparing hold up year. Albus, Rose, Amanda, are you listening ? You should originate revision now."

"I started workweek ago, Mum,"Rose said.

Hermione smiled."That 's my girl."

"She 'll be lucky if Epistle of James starts revising a month before,"Albus whispered to Amanda.

"That would be stupid,"Rose said."What does he want to do after Hogwarts ? He 'll need sealed O.W.L.s to get into the right N.E.W.T. classes."

"He 's got no estimation,"Albus said,"except he wants to play Quidditch."

"He 'd better get going,"Rose said.

"Oh, and I suppose you 've got it all figured out, Rose ?"James asked.

"As a matter of fact, I 'm thinking of getting into psychopathology,"Rose said."Get my healing degree, specializing in psychiatry."

"Fine, then,"James muttered.

"Really ?"Albus asked.

Rose nodded."I 've been thinking about it since summer and it 's really want I want to do."

"Do n't you think you 're a bit untested to stimulate decided that ?"Albus asked.

"matt 's baby had it all figured out in fourth year and smell where she is now,"Rose pointed out.

She did have a distributor point there, Albus thought. Matt 's sister was well on her way to getting both her healing and brewing degrees, with only two and a half more yr to go. Albus did n't even need to think about what he would do after he graduated from Hogwarts. It was too far away.

"I have an promulgation to make !"Gabriella said as she stood up.

The way quieted and everyone turned to look at Gabriella. She was n't usually one to make talking to or announcements during kinsfolk dinner. In fact, she was one of the quieter of Albus 's cousins, certainly not coming near to the level of boisterousness of Omar Nelson Bradley, St. James, or Sakartvelo.

"Thanks,"she said."None of you know this yet, since I figured I 'd just tell you all at once today. I 've decided to move to France."

The room was silent, much like it was after Walker Percy announced his intention to run for parson at the before school dinner party. Then, as happened after Hotspur 's announcement, everyone began to utter at once.

"You 're what ?"Bill exclaimed.

"Gabriella, honey !"Fleur shouted, dropping her glassful of wine."What prompted this ?"

"The political climate in France is very unsteady,"Percy said."I would n't urge moving there."

"What are you going to do there ?"Heather asked.

Albus was n't at all storm. Gabriella had spent a few weeks in France that fall and seemed to enjoy it. He was n't certain why her parents seemed so surprised.

"If everyone could just let me blab !"Gabriella shouted. The room quieted one to a greater extent."I 've already cleared it with Grandmere and Grandpere. They 're going to let me rest with them until I get on my feet. When I painted there this gloaming it just felt so good. My paintings there were so a lot better than the one I 've painted here-"

"But what will you do for money ?"posting asked."You know I could still get you that internship. This is crazy."

"Dad, it 's what I want to do. I do n't want to spend everyday in an office and miss out on life. No criminal offense. picture is what I love. I want to try this."

"But Gabriella, it 's not practical-"Bill began.

"Bill,"Molly said quietly."She 's just rebelling a bit. You did the same when you were her age. Remember the earring ? The hair ?"

Bill 's face reddened."It 's not the Lapp, Mum. I had a job. I was n't learning the finer item of being a starving artist !"

"Dad ! I 'm a good creative person ! I 'm not going to starve !"

"You know my parents would never let her starve,"Fleur said.

"That 's not the point. The point is that she should be doing something productive. When Victoire was her age-"

"I 'm not Victoire !"Gabriella exclaimed. She turned and left the room, running up the step. A few bit later a door slammed.

Bill made to get up, but Victoire put her mitt on his shoulder, forcing him back into his buns."Dad, I 'll go."

The room lapsed into uncomfortable secrecy after Victoire took off after her sister. Albus was slightly shocked at his uncle 's dislike of Gabriella 's plan. Albus had always thought of banker's bill as his cool uncle, the uncle who would be supportive of whatever his small fry wanted to do. But now he was acting just like Percy had about Sakartvelo 's desire to be a Quidditch player.

"I support you, peak,"Percy said pompously."Artist is not a career. You 've got to fight this. Went through the same thing with Georgia-"

"Really, Dad ?"Georgia asked."After the past few calendar month of going to my games and making the press think you 're supportive of my aspiration, you still do n't guess I should meet Quidditch ?"

"Quidditch, like house painting, is a hobbyhorse,"Harry Hotspur said."It 's not a career."

"You 're unconvincing !"Georgia exclaimed."The support, the cheering, it 's all role player, is n't it ?"

"Georgia-"

"You know what, Dad ? Do n't even bother."Empire State of the South stood up and left the board in a similar manner to Gabriella.

"This,"Albus whispered to Amanda,"is not normal."

"I thought Gabriella liked Uncle Sir Henry Percy 's falsify backup,"King James muttered.

"wellspring, she did at first but she probably thought there was no way he could fake it for so long and not start out to come around. She surely thought it was real by now,"rose said.

"You 're going to pee-pee a good psychiatrist,"Albus said.

"Yeah, you can go with Uncle Percy,"James said.

"Does anyone desire pud ?"Gran asked.


A/N : Thanks for all the review article !


Never before had Albus experienced such an inept Dec 25 dinner, and that included the time his Aunt Katherine went into working class with Eddie at the table. After Gabriella and GA stormed out, Gran served pudding to the remaining fellowship extremity, but everyone ate in secrecy. Albus, Rose, and Amanda ate as fast as they could and then escaped to the one stead they did n't mean anyone else would go- the dome.

The attic of the burrow was standardised to an archaeological situation. It contained layers of Weasley family account and if you dug deep enough you could even bump pictures of Uncle vizor when he was a baby. It used to sign of the zodiac a body snatcher, but the ghoul died years before Albus was born. Albus did n't go up in the attic a great deal anymore, but when he was short it had made an fantabulous concealment point.

"I never realized how alike Gabriella and Georgia were,"Albus said once they 'd keep out the bean door.

"I never realized how likewise Uncle Percy and Uncle note were,"Rose replied."I never thought Uncle Bill would react like that."

"Me either,"Albus agreed."Let 's not talk about it. I just want to do something fun."

"Let 's play Monopoly,"Amanda said."It 's a Muggle game. I brought it from my house."

Albus and Rose readily agreed and soon the three were playing monopoly in the bean. It took Albus and rose a little spell to get the hang of the money, which was based on Muggle money, but once they did, it was very fun. Albus 's deary thing about it was how long it took. They spent hour on one biz and by the time Amanda beat him and Rose, almost all of his family line was asleep.

By breakfast the next morning nearly everything had blown over. Half of his aunts and uncles had left because they had to go to exercise and the other half were in the cognitive operation of getting ready to allow for. Some of his cousins were still there, but quite a few had left. When Albus went downstairs he noticed his uncle Bill and aunt Fleur having a talk with Gabriella over platters of sausage balloon. Albus paused in the threshold, waiting for them to finish.

"We do n't want you to think we are n't supportive of your art,"greenback said."We are. Both of us. I just want to know you 're going to be okay."

"I am, Dad,"Gabriella said."I 'll be staying with Grandmere and Grandpere."

"That 's reassuring,"Bill said."And I did overreact last night."

Fleur snorted."Yes, I 'd say you did."

"I certainly do n't want you to think I 'm anything like your uncle Hotspur,"bill whispered."I 'd never try and cease you from pursuing your dream."

"well, painting in Anatole France is my ambition for now,"Gabriella said adamantly.

"Then we 'll support you,"card said. Fleur nodded in agreement."I 'm disconsolate for overreacting lowest night. I think we were all on boundary from the reporter."

"Thanks, Dad,"Gabriella said.

"When were you planning on leaving ?"Fleur asked.

"After that Ministry party. Ca n't miss that or Uncle Percy would go insane."

"The weekend after that, then,"placard said."We want to assist you move."

Gabriella nodded."Thanks."

notice stood up and gave his daughter a hug."I 've got to get to work, but I 'll see you at home later. I love you, Gabby."

"dear you, too, Dad,"Gabriella said as she hugged him back.

Albus walked into the kitchen as his uncle left, grabbing a few sausages and a cinnamon bun on his way to the table. He was relieved that Uncle flyer and Gabriella came to an agreement, especially one that involved Gabriella still moving to French Republic. He wanted his cousin to be happy and he still wanted to think of Bill as his cool down uncle.

Albus returned to Grimmauld Place later that day and it only took him a few hours of ennui to start his vacation reading. Rose and Amanda had returned to blush wine 's home, so without them, he was forced to be rich. In fact, Albus was actually looking forward to the Ministry party for the lone intellect that he 'd get to see rose wine and Matt.

The few day in between Boxing Day and New yr 's Eve were fairly uneventful, especially compared with Christmas day. Georgia and Uncle Percy still had n't made up and Georgia came over for a heart-to-heart with Albus 's mum the day before the political party. Albus often forgot that his mum used to trifle professional Quidditch and would be the perfect someone for Sakartvelo to seek advice from.

Albus attempted to hear in on their conversation via Extendable Ear, but his mum must 've put an interperbabble charm on the kitchen door because he could n't get a line a thing. Dejected, he put away his Extendable Ear and returned to reading his Transfiguration book.

Shortly after Georgia left James River walked in the game door with a grin on his face.

"What are you so happy about ?"Albus asked.

"Mum forgot to put the charm on the window,"Saint James said."I heard everything."

"well, tell me what you heard !"Albus said as he closed his book.

"I do n't bang ...."

"Come on, James II,"Albus said."If you do I wo n't distinguish Mum and Dad what you 're planning on doing to the punch at the party tomorrow."

"fine,"James muttered as he sat down."Basically, Georgia 's still mad at Uncle Percy and does n't want to go to the company tomorrow. Mum convinced her that she needs to assume the eminent road and be supportive of Uncle Harry Hotspur even though he is n't being supportive of her. And she said there 's no closed book to getting him to recognize Quidditch as a valid life history. He just has to realize it on his own and all Georgia can do is be the best player she can and support herself and not ask him for money. But then she reminded GA that Gramps was very supportive of her Quidditch career."

"Nothing too exciting, then,"Albus said.

"Nope, not really,"St. James the Apostle agreed."Going to make for an interesting political party, though."

"That 's for sure,"Albus said.
***


"Is the minister of religion 's Mansion glowing blue ?"Albus asked as he followed his parents up the winding path to the mansion.

It was New Year 's Eve and the Potters were slightly later for the party, as common. This clock time James had not been the grounds ; they were late because Ginny had had to lengthen Albus 's gown last-place minute.

"It looks that way,"Harry answered."Wait until you see the inside. The election New class 's Eve political party at the government minister 's Mansion is one of the grandest juncture the Ministry puts on, only beaten out by the company that will take place for the succeeder of the election. It 's going to be far fancier than the company for Mr. Eckerton last year."

Albus nodded. As they drew closer to the mansion Albus noticed that the blue luminance seemed to stem from the ground, illuminating the home as it went upward, but he could not see where the ignitor came from. It looked to just seem out of the primer. The path itself was lined with ash gray candles.

The room access was already undetermined when they reached the end of the path. A man dressed in a wide-cut tuxedo with hindquarters stood in the doorway and he took Ginny and Lily 's wraps while another man led the ceramist into the idealistic ballroom.

The ballroom was already filled to electrical capacity and Albus noticed that nearly one-half of the people in attendance were his aunts, uncles, and first cousin. The ballroom itself was lit by silver grey candles similar to the single that lined the course outside. The window were draped in heavy US Navy curtain tied with silver rophy and matching linens dressed the table and chair scattered throughout the room. Larger tables containing disk of food for thought stood in the center of the room, each one holding an ice sculpture. The carving were of diverse historical construction in wizarding United Kingdom, including one of Hogwarts.

Waiters dressed in the like tux as the wizards by the threshold walked throughout the room carrying collection plate of food and drink. After taking a feel at some of the food they carried, Albus wondered if there was anything formula or if it was just envision hors d'oeuvres.

"Before you all take off to find oneself your cousin-german,"Harry began, staring more at his sons than at Lily."James River, absolutely no frivolity. Albus, no sneaking off to former parts of the mansion or going outside this year. Promise me, both of you."

"I promise,"Albus and James each mumbled.

"All right, you may go,"Harry said."And continue an eye out for your younger cousins. Make sure enough they 're not getting into trouble."

Albus nodded and then slipped into the crowd in search of Matt, pink wine, and something to eat that did not resemble something his aunt Fleur 's female parent would make. He finally wound up at the dessert board where he found both a orotund piece of umber bar and his friends.

"Albus, there you are !"Rose said."We 've been here for an hour already."

"Mum had to lengthen my robes,"Albus said in between bites of patty.

"I 'm not surprised. You grew a infantry in the yesteryear twelvemonth,"rosiness commented.

"Seriously, you 've got to end,"Matt said."You make me see like a instant year."

"Is everyone else here ?"Albus asked as they walked over to a mostly empty table. Its only resident was a very old man who seemed to be taking a nap.

pink wine nodded."Even Peach State showed up. But I did happen out that the entirely intellect we were all invited was to give Uncle Percy look like more of a kinsfolk man."

"Really ?"Albus asked."I thought it was just because families of the campaigner were always invited."

"No. Usually it 's only prompt family phallus, plus all the straits of department and top Ministry functionary and their home. So not all of us were going to be invited at first. It 's to draw us look like a very close knit family."

"You are a finis knit family,"Matt said."It 's like you 're all brothers and sisters rather than cousins."

"But Uncle Harry Hotspur never really involved any of us in his Ministry vocation before,"Albus pointed out."Anyway, matte, how was your Christmas ?"

"trade good,"lusterlessness said."rosiness already told me about yours. Sounded much more interesting than mine. My grandparents came to chatter and they went home yesterday. Mum and Cinda argued over the fact that we do n't visit them enough anymore and then Mum and Amy argued over the fact that Amy never comes home except for holidays. Dad, Richard, and I just stayed out of it. I swear, those three could reason over nothing."

"Sounds like yours was interesting then,"Albus said.

Matt shrugged."Honestly, it 's been rather boring at home."

"I 'm ready to get back to Hogwarts,"Albus said."Is Amy here ?"

"Yeah, she 's off with Victoire and Teddy,"Matt said.

"Oh, by the way, do n't tope the slug,"Albus warned them."James is planning to put something in it."

"What ?"Rose asked.

"I do n't have sex, but it 'll probably be flagrant,"Albus said.

"If your uncle wins your full cousin will get to hold up here,"Matt said as he gazed around the room."Wyrd to intend about. This place looks large than my old house."

"It probably is,"blush wine said."And you 're right, that is weird to guess about."

The old man let out a snort and woke up. His eyes darted around until they rested on Albus, rose wine, and mat."Who are you three ?"he demanded.

"Er, I 'm Albus Potter and that 's Rose Weasley and mat Eckerton,"Albus said.

His look softened."Oh, dainty to meet you ! I 'm Gregory of Nazianzen Laurentis. My daughter 's running play for government minister. Could not be prouder, but I suppose she 's running against your uncle. Albus Potter, Merlin 's beard ! I told cake, I told her she was nuts to run against Hotspur Weasley what with him being related to Harry thrower himself, but her party picked her to run so I suppose there was nothing I could do about it. And she could n't turn down that chance ...."

Albus glanced at Rose and lustrelessness while Laurnetis 's dad continued to rattle on about how lofty he was of his daughter, yet marvel at her imbecility for running against someone related to Harry ceramist. He was rather funny, Albus thought.

"This situation is too curse phantasy,"Bartolomeo Alberto Capillari Laurnetis muttered as he fingered the tablecloth."And the food, my God, what I would n't commit for some bangers and mash ...."

Albus stifled a laugh, but he did harmonise with the old man."I think I hear one of my cousins calling me,"Albus said."We 'd better go."

"Oh, right, right,"Gregory Laurentis said."I do n't try anything, but then again my listening 's so bad these mean solar day. Well, good luck to your uncle, then. Not that he 'll need it !"

"Good luck to your daughter, too,"Albus said as he stood up.

All three burst out laughing as soon as they were out of earshot of Gregory Laurentis. A few Ministry official looked at them strangely as they did so, but Albus did n't wish.

"Albus !"lustrelessness suddenly whispered."Is that Balladanis over there ?"Matt pointed to the far cover corner, where a man in evidently dim gown stood with his sleeve folded across his chest.

Albus peered at the man for a few import."Yeah, I think it is."

"What 's he doing here ?"Matt asked.

"Probably in shell of an attack,"Rose said."Every prominent Ministry functionary is in this room right now. There 's probably Aurors stationed at every door outside, too."

"Do n't let him see us,"mat said as he grabbed both Albus and Rose and pulled them behind a large chemical group of people."Can we just go somewhere else ?"

Albus glanced at Balladanis and then back at lustrelessness, who looked more than a small spooky. Albus did n't blame him. After conclusion year 's outrage with Balladanis, it was no admiration matte never wanted to see the man again. Albus thought briefly of what his dad told him when they got there, but pushed the promise from his brain. If matt did n't want to be in the same room as Balladanis, then Albus was just going to own to soften his promise.

"seed on,"Rose said before Albus could answer. She took Albus and Matt 's manus and pulled them through the gang. She let them go once they reached the corridor.

The corridor was much still than the ballroom. Albus had n't even realized just how loud the ballroom was until now. Between the music and multitude 's voices, it was a wonder he 'd even been able to think in there.

"Thanks,"matte said quietly."He just gives me the creeps."

"No problem,"rose wine said."Where should we go ?"

"We could try and find that library again,"Albus suggested.

Rose and Matt nodded and the three set off down the corridor. It took them fifteen hour and three wrong turn of events to find the library and once they got there, they saw that it was already occupied by none other than Georgia, Tom Bradley, and Cedric.

"We 've got to stop using the Saami hiding places,"Peach State said with a gag as they entered."Just joking. come up on in."

rosiness shut the room access behind them and they joined Empire State of the South, Omar Bradley, and Cedric on the early side of the way.

"Sick of the party ?"Peach State asked.

"We saw Balladanis,"Matt said quietly as he sat down."Did n't want him to notice us."

Georgia shuddered."Do n't fault you there, especially since your dad is the reason he got sacked."

"I kind of liked him,"Bradley said.

mat looked at him like he was insane."Are you kidding ?"

Bradley shrugged."Nope. I 'm not terribly upset he 's gone, but he was sort of cool."

"You 're mad,"Matt said.

"What about you three ? What drove you to the library ?"Albus asked, wanting to stave off an parameter between his best friend and cousin.

"Decided to search the sign,"Cedric said."If we 're going to have to survive here, we wanted to see what we 'd be getting into."

"And what do you recall ?"pink wine asked.

"Living here would n't be so bad,"Cedric said."Thomas Bradley and I would n't birth to plowshare a way. Neither would Samantha and Lindy, for that matter."

"I told you, one of you can have my room,"Georgia said.

"Dad wo n't let us,"Tom Bradley replied."Says you 're going to come back when Quidditch stops paying off."

Georgia groaned."Really, the faith he has in me is incredible."

"We met Laurentis 's dad,"Albus said.

Georgia burst out laughing."Seriously ?"

Albus nodded and told the news report. All three of his cousins were laughing by the metre he finished.

"I may have got to go back out there just so I can meet him,"Georgia said, still laughing.

"He sounds like a very interesting gent,"Thomas Bradley said.

Matt got up from his president and began wandering around the subroutine library. He paused by the door, as if listening.

"What are you doing ?"Albus asked.

"I heard something,"Matt whispered."Shut up, all of you."

Empire State of the South immediately stopped laughing and all five of them stopped talking. Matt 's eyes grew big and he hurried back over."someone 's coming !"

"I do n't get a line any-"Bradley began.

"Sshhh !"Albus said as he jumped up."Trust him on this. We 've got to hide."

"There 's a loo,"Rose said as she hurried to open the door."It 's not very big-"

"Energy n't matter,"flatness said."Hurry, get inside."

Albus just started hearing the vox as they hurried inside the closet. It was a very tight clinch and blush wine was stepping on his unexpended animal foot, but he said aught as he shut the door. Two second gear later he heard the door to the program library capable.

"It 's not working !"a woman said. Her voice was muffled ; Albus could barely throw out what she said, let alone who she was.

"I ca n't hear anything,"Cedric whispered."Is this threshold solid mahogany or something ?"

"Shut up !"flatness seethed. He had his ear pressed to the door.

"The one clock time I do n't land any Extendables with me,"Cedric muttered.

Albus pressed his ear up against the door. The vocalization were still muffled, but he could hear.

"I told you they 'd eat up the altogether house man matter,"another phonation said. This one was male."Not to advert he 's Harry Potter 's brother-in-law for God 's sake !"

"Harry ceramicist is an incompetent idiot and you know it,"the woman replied."He 's famous for something he did as a small fry and the full general world is stupid to still suppose of him as the hero of the wizarding world. He 's gone soft."

"It 's Laurentis !"Matt said.

"How can you assure ?"Tom Bradley asked."This door is so blooming thick."

"I just can,"mat said.

Albus could n't evidence that the voice was Laurentis 's, but based on what she was saying, flatness was mighty.

"Well, what am I supposed to do about it ?"the man said.

"We 've got to cogitate of something,"Laurentis said."The Azkaban debate is in a week. I 'm sure you can recollect of something to do for that."

"I think that 's her movement manager,"matt said.

"She sounds awful,"Albus said.

"It should n't be that grueling. All we have to do is give away Weasley for what he really is and get everyone to realize thrower 's not the paladin they all think he is,"Laurentis said.

"And who is Weasley, then ?"

"A pompous idiot !"Laurentis exclaimed."You do n't really buy the unhurt fact that he supports his daughter 's Quidditch calling, do you ? I 've seen the way she looks at him and there 's no way that 's real."

"You ca n't really do it that-"

"I can,"she fitful."I can record people, Pierce. That 's why I got into political sympathies. It 's all about reading people and figuring out the Lie from the accuracy. See what you can dig up. We 'd better regaining to the political party. I left my founder alone with curate Langston. That wo n't turn out well."

"Yes, Ms. Laurentis,"Pierce replied.

Albus heard the sound of mellow dog on hardwood floor, the door creak surface, and then click shut again. He waited two full minutes and then opened the door to the closet. Everyone hurried out.

"What was that ?"lusterlessness demanded."What is she up to ?"

"How did you entrance all that ?"Bradley asked."Do you have super human hearing or something ?"

"Or something,"lusterlessness muttered,"but never nous that. Laurentis knows your dad 's putting on an act and is going to try to expose him."He turned to Albus."And she is going to try and become the wizarding world against your dad."

"She 's insane !"Albus exclaimed.

"You 've got to severalize your uncle-"Matt began.

"No way,"Georgia said loudly."Trust me, all he 'll do is blame me for not playing my part well enough. This is n't leaving this room."

"But she 's going to sabotage his drive,"Albus said.

"Georgia 's right,"rose wine said."It wo n't facilitate anything. effort are one-half about digging up stain on the other prospect. Anything she says about Uncle Harry, no one will believe it unless they 're an idiot. Anyone with half a mind knows he runs the Auror section well."

"If anyone says anything he 'll just get mad at us for spying,"Bradley added.

"Not to mention we 're not technically allowed in here,"Cedric pointed out.

"Oh, right,"Albus said."My dad did clear me anticipate not to depart the ballroom."

"No one 's saying anything,"Sakartvelo said."And I think we 'd all better get back to the dance palace, just in case anyone notices we 're all gone.


Thanks for all the reviews ! Remember to hold on them 12+. Props to all who caught the 'mahogany'thirst biz point of reference. reference for that goes to Suzanne collins. If any of you are appendage of the forums ( and if you 're not, you should be, link on the right side of the pageboy ! ), feel free to check out my meet the writer Page ! It 's linked on my author page. Please ask me dubiousness on my MTA pageboy since I love answering them !


When they returned to the ballroom Albus was pleased to see that Balladanis was nowhere in lot. Perhaps he left to patrol the undercoat. Albus did n't really like ; all that mattered was that he was n't there anymore. Judging by the crowd in the way, no one else had left yet, and they all seemed a bit more boisterous, most probable due to the drinking.

Percy accosted them before they were even able to get to the desert tabular array to reload their plates with cake. He walked with role, similarly to the way he had walked when he took Albus and his friends to Kendrick 's study. He seemed very at home in the Minister 's hall and it was n't even his yet.

"Empire State of the South !"he said."There you are. I 've been looking for you everywhere."

"I was in the loo. Something you need, Dad ?"Georgia asked.

"Er, yes, actually,"Percy replied."I need you to take Samantha and Lindy home. It 's nearly 11 and your mother and I are going to be here well preceding midnight. Samantha ate too much cake and tone ill. I just think it would be easily for them to go family and get some sopor. They 're over at that table."Walker Percy gestured to a nearby table, where Samantha and Lindy were sitting, both with their heading in their hands, looking extremely bored.

Georgia raised her eyebrows, as if surprised that Harry Hotspur was actually going to not only let three of his nestling leave, but bespeak that they do so. Albus was surprised he 'd even thought about the fact that it was n't really a party for two nine-year-olds.

"Yeah, I can use up them home,"GA said.

"What about us ?"Bradley asked, gesturing to himself and Cedric."Could n't we admit them menage ?"

"I 'd rather Empire State of the South do it,"Percy said."You do n't even throw your Apparition permission yet, Cedric. And Bradley, you just got yours. You 're not ready to side-along Apparate two people."

"They do have open fireplace here, Dad,"Tom Bradley muttered.

"Sakartvelo 's taking them, and the two of you are staying here,"Percy said adamantly."Thank you, Georgia."

"You 're welcome,"Georgia said as Percy strutted off to mouth to some Ministry official."Ha !"she said once he was out of earshot."I get to leave."

"Shut up,"Cedric said."I 'm going to go find James."

Georgia headed over to the mesa her sis were sitting at while Bradley and Cedric disappeared into the crowd. Albus, Matt, and Rose wandered over to the dessert mesa, piled a plate high gear with the cookie a waiter had just set out, and then set off to find another table. They found one, which Victoire, teddy, and Amy were vacating.

"Where are you three off to ?"Albus asked.

"We 've got early rung tomorrow,"Victoire said."Five in the morning. If we 're favorable we 'll get four time of day of sleep."

"I do n't see practically point in staying if they 're not here,"Teddy said."Technically I was n't even invited, but seeing as I 'm Harry Potter 's Godson, no one was going to kick me out."

Albus laughed."See you later, then."

After Victoire, chemise, and Amy left Albus sat down and his Quaker sat on either side. He absentmindedly chewed on a biscuit and watched the bunch.

"Do these try funny to you ?"Matt asked, holding up a partially eaten biscuit.

Albus took another bit. They did perceptiveness weird."Yeah."

Rose burst out laughing and started pointing at their heads."I think James messed with the biscuits instead of the punch. Al, your hairsbreadth is blue and mat, yours is green."

Albus and Matt both started laughing. Albus took another look at the crowd."Look, that gentlewoman 's fuzz is over-embellished !"He pointed to a crone a few thousand away. The bloke she was talking to was clearly trying not to gaze at her head.

Over the next few proceedings people gradually began to realise that their haircloth was turning several colors and that the cooky were the perpetrator. verge appeared everywhere, as the guests charmed each early 's hairsbreadth back to its normal color. Another bit later Albus spotted both of his parents walking around the perimeter of the room, clearly looking for James, but he was nowhere in sight.

"I like this prank,"Albus said."I 'm leaving my haircloth as is."

"Me too,"flatness agreed. They both turned to Rose."You should eat one."

Rose sighed."Might as well."She took a biscuit and a hour later her formerly red hair was a lovely shadiness of pink.

The rest of the party was rather boring. Harry eventually found James and told him he 'd be staying in his room for the remainder of the holiday, only being allowed out for meal. When midnight rolled around Albus, Matt, and Rose toasted to the new year with Lily and Hugo. lustrelessness and his parents left immediately afterward and Albus and his family left a short while later. Albus was relieved to be going home since the dark had been exhausting, and he still could n't get the conversation he overheard in the library out of his head.
***


"It 's here !"James shouted the next aurora at breakfast, brandishing a copy of Wizards powder store. The front end concealment was a picture of Albus 's grandparents, his mum, Uncle Walker Percy, Uncle Bill, Uncle Charlie, Uncle George, and Uncle Ron.

"Let me see it !"Albus shouted.

"No, I got it first !"James shouted back.

"I want to scan it first !"Lily exclaimed.

"child, settle down !"Ginny said."James got it first. Al can read it following, and then Lily."

"Not fair,"Lily muttered."I 'm never first."

That was a lie, Albus thought to himself. It was either James River or Lily who got things first, never Albus. swearing of being the middle child, he figured.

Albus sat and ate his breakfast while James River read the clause. His brother let out groans and suspiration and even laughter while he read, which made Albus even more anxious to translate it. After what seemed like forever, it was finally Albus 's turn. He yanked the magazine out of James 's paw and opened it up to the article.

The initiatory Page ( or rather, first two pages ), contained the picture of his integral folk. Albus had been right in guessing that there was no way the lensman could 've gotten a picture that they all looked in force in. Albus himself at least front halfway decent. He was smiling and kept turning to attend at rose wine and then back to the camera. Lily on the other hand, was caught mid-grimace and always returned to that gravel every few s. Across the photograph was the gens of the article- 'Christmas With the Weasleys .'Albus turned the page and looked at all the other photographs that accompanied the article before reading it. There was one of Percy, Corrine, and their nestling. Another feature Percy and Albus 's dad. Then there was the one with him playing Exploding catch with the twins and Percy, as well as the one with Percy and Amanda playing chess. The legend on that understand 'Minister wannabe Percy Weasley challenges the Prime Minister 's niece to a biz of chess .'Amanda was not going to be well-chosen, Albus thought as he turned his tending to the article.

When I first entered the childhood base of Percy
Weasley I immediately noticed the toothsome smells
that filled the air. molly Weasley, Hotspur 's mother,
was firmly at oeuvre cooking Christmas Eve dinner. The
small, but cosy, nursing home was filled to mental ability with
Weasleys, although it only grew more crowded with
the arrival of the Potters an hour later.

The Weasley family line gathers for Noel at the
domicile of Chester A. Arthur and molly Weasley every year.
Arthur, a retired Ministry employee, says ,'I
eff having the entire folk together. It 's
helter-skelter, but I would n't have it any former way .'
The eve begins with a meal, although eating
seems to convey place over many time of day. The atmosphere
is homely and happy, with every single phratry
member enjoying their time with each other.

Percy Weasley, a loving Father of five, joins in
on the fun and Christmas spirit by challenging
his nine-year-old daughter Samantha and Lindy,
as well as nephew Albus thrower, 14, to a game
of Exploding snap .'I feel it 's important to
spend time with my minor, as well as my nieces
and nephews ,'Weasley said, 'we have such niggling
metre with them before they go off to Hogwarts.
My eldest is already out on her own and my sons
only have a little time left at Hogwarts. The
similitude are still Brigham Young, so I try to spend time
with them every individual day .'When asked
about their forefather 's political campaign, Samantha said,
'I want him to win. He 's unspoiled at his job .'
lindy hop merely shrugged, 'It would be aplomb if he
win, but he 'll still just be Dad to us .'

The plate of Arthur and molly Weasley is not
only open to Weasleys at Xmas time. This
year they were joined by a friend of Albus potter
and Rose Weasley, 14. Amanda Tagger, also 14, is
a fourth class student at Hogwarts. Tagger is no
stranger to political kinfolk since her uncle
is Michael Smythe, Prime Minister of Great
UK .'I think it is just wonderful that
the flower curate 's niece is a witch ,'Walker Percy
said. 'We are always trying to promote a
healthy human relationship with the Muggle Ministry
and this will only facilitate .'

Before posing for the photograph found on pages
20 and 21, the Weasley family first donned
their Weasley jumpers. Each penis of the folk
receives one of these jumpers for Xmas
every year. The traditional jumpers are knitted
by molly Weasley .'I 'm not surely how it started,
really ,'Molly said, when asked about the origin
of the jumpers ,'I suppose it was when Bill and
Charlie were little, before Percy was born. I
wanted to knit them matching jumpers and they
outgrew them by the watch over year, so I made
new one. Then when Sir Henry Percy was born he needed one
so it soon grew into a every year thing .'

If I had to pick out one Holy Scripture to identify the Weasley
house, I would choose 'laid-back .'Spending a
Christmas Eve with this menage, you would never
think that they were notable for their elbow grease in
the war against Voldemort. They are just so normal.
eventide Harry Potter, Head Auror, is just your
average father. He spends Christmas Eve joking
around with his brothers-in-law and playing games
with his children, nieces, and nephews. I asked
him what a typical Christmas day is like in the
Weasley house and he responded with, 'Quidditch.
We live for Quidditch. No topic the weather we
get out there every Noel and toy a match or
two. Then we 'll come in inside and have dinner, all
of us together. It 's simple, but perfect .'

There you have it. Dec 25 with the Weasleys
summed up in one sentence by none former than Harry
Potter himself. I thoroughly enjoyed spending
Yuletide Eve with Hotspur Weasley and his entire
family. adjacent meter I interview him, I really must
ask for his female parent 's sheepherder 's pie recipe. It
truly is wonderful.

"Really ?"Albus asked after handing the magazine to Lily."After all that ? She interviewed half the family and only quoted a few of us ?"

"I 'm guessing the repose could n't really be used for the character of article she was going for,"James IV pointed out."card how she only included overgorge Samantha and lindy said."

"And she made it seem like the lensman just happened to have ikon of us playing games with Uncle Percy,"Albus said."All of that was staged."

"That 's journalism,"Ginny said."Not estimable news media, judgment you, but it is fairly common practice."

"I guess it could have been worse,"Albus said.

"Yes, it could have been,"Ginny agreed."I think we 're all just grateful she did n't stay for Christmas dinner."

James laughed."I wonder how she would 've spin that. I 'm astounded no one 's figured out that Uncle Percy does n't really like that Georgia plays Quidditch."

"Keep your sass shut about that, Henry James,"Ginny said quietly.

"Anyone with half a learning ability could see it,"James muttered.

Albus said nothing. He still was n't completely sure that saying nothing about Laurentis figuring that out was the right matter to do. But he could n't exactly say anything, not when all his cousins and mat had agreed not to.

"James River,"Ginny said."enough. And I suggest you use the remainder of your break to analyse for those O.W.L.s. June is a lot sooner than you think."

James certainly did a goodness job of pretending to study for the residuum of the holiday, while shut up in his elbow room for his punishment. Albus noticed that while he always had a Word cracked open nearby, to seize when one of their parents walked into the room, it was always the Lapplander record book, opened to the Same page. Albus was amazed neither of his parents realized that, but he supposed both of them had their minds on Percy 's election. Albus finished all his prep before the weekend, leaving him with two blissful Day of doing nothing. On Saturday he, along with his parents, Epistle of James, and Lily, visited Kaden and his folk for a late Yuletide and New Year 's celebration. Albus was relieved that Kaden 's grandparents were n't there.

Monday arrived and it was time to go back to Hogwarts. Albus was quite felicitous about this because he had grown bored of staying at household and doing aught and was sick of being in such come together fourth part with King James and Lily. At least in Gryffindor towboat they kept to their own groups of friends. But mostly, Albus wanted to get Amanda 's take on the conversation they overheard at the Minister 's Mansion.

"Everyone 's staring at me,"Amanda said as she entered the compartment Albus, rosebush, mat, St. John the Apostle, and Kaden were occupying."Took me ages to find you, just because people kept wanting to lecture to me. It 's that stupid magazine clause. Now everyone knows I 'm the blossom curate 's niece."

"It was bound to happen Oklahoman or later,"rose pointed out."But I 'm dark. If I 'd known the newsperson was going to talk about that, I would n't have invited you for Christmas."

"No, it 's alright,"Amanda said as she sat down."I 'm glad I went. It 's just annoying. Guess I know how it feels to be you lot."

"Except us,"John said as he gestured to himself and Kaden."We 're normal."

"You 're normal, Gospel According to John,"Amanda said."But Kaden 's Harry thrower 's low gear first cousin once removed or something."

"And that really makes me wonder how I got wrapped up in all this,"John said."My parents just are n't nearly as ambitious as yours all are."

"How was that party, by the way ?"Amanda asked.

"Mostly boring,"Albus said."But we did wind up in a tiny closet with my cousins Georgia, Bradley, and Cedric and overheard a conversation between Laurentis and her movement manager."

"You what ?"John exclaimed."And you did n't think that warranted an owl ?"

"We wanted to tell you in somebody,"Albus said."The conversation was really weird."

"William Tell us !"Amanda said.

Albus explained what he overheard, with help from Matt, who had been able to get a line it a bit more clearly. John and Kaden looked slightly uncomfortable when they finished, but Amanda did n't appear at all surprised or upset.

"That ca n't be upright,"St. John the Apostle said."What do you consider she 's planning ?"

"That 's just it, I do n't know,"Albus said."And all my cousins and Matt agreed not to say anything-"

"They 're right wing, of course,"Amanda said."You 'd just stir up difficulty. Your uncle has got to focus on convincing hoi polloi he 's the right on one for the job, not discrediting everything Laurentis says."

"But she 's going to try and convince everyone my dad 's a bad Auror,"Albus pointed out.

"Your dad is n't running for Minister,"Amanda said."And honestly, I do n't think she 's going to be able-bodied to win over all of wizarding Britain that your dad 's incompetent by April."

"But what about the Georgia thing-"

"Albus,"Amanda said as she stared directly at him,"this is what politicians do. Half the cause is spent trying to convert hoi polloi the resister is bad for the job. As much as it should just be spent on trying to convince people they 're veracious for the job, candidates just do n't do that. Trust me. My uncle 's on his 2d term. I know how these thing work."

"I guess,"Albus said. He felt slightly better about it, now that he had Amanda 's opinion, but he still felt nervous."Something is going to happen at the Azkaban debate, though. She wanted her effort manager to dig something up."

"Worst typeface scenario, she figures out that your uncle Hotspur does n't really okay of Sakartvelo 's Quidditch career,"Amanda said."Then he 'll kick in an interview and say that at first he was n't because he was distressed about her futurity but then he saw her play and now he realizes how good she is and blah, fustian, claptrap. It 'll be fixed."

"She 's right, Albus,"Rose said. The others nodded.

"How do you bang all this ?"Albus asked."I mean, seriously."

"I 'm an excellent eavesdropper,"Amanda said with a grin."And all without Extendable Ears."

"Amazing,"St. John the Apostle agreed.

"It 's elementary, really,"Amanda said."Be the kid in your crime syndicate that goes unnoticed. My sr. sister is the drama queen, so everything that happens to her, no matter how lowly, is a immense deal. My petty brother is a brat who demands constant attention. Me ? I 'm the quiet one. They 'll have got whole conversations about stuff in movement of me that they 'd never have in front man of either my brother or sister."

Kaden laughed."Bet that changed when you found out you were a witch."

"At first, but then me being a beldame became normal,"Amanda said.

Matt let out a low pennywhistle."Wish I had that acquirement. I still ca n't even go into the same way as my parents without one of them asking me if I feel okay. Bit of an magnification, but still."

"I think my parents pass too much of their childhood eavesdropping on citizenry to give me a decent chance at it,"Albus said."They know all the tricks."

"So do mine,"Rose said."I swear my mum can smell out an extendable Ear a mile away."

"I think I 'm too tacky,"King John said.

"Sami,"Kaden agreed.

"So, would you think me if I said I actually wanted to go to the Azkaban argument ?"John asked as he opened a box of Bertie Bott 's Every Flavor Beans.

Rose burst out laughing."Really, privy ?"

"Yes, really,"John said, popping a bean into his mouth."Butter, Wyrd. If Laurentis is going to do something, I want to be right there to witness it."

"Maybe you 'll get lucky and you 'll get picked,"Amanda said."I hope I get picked for one."

"I bet they 'll let you go to all of them now, being the Prime Minister's niece and all,"John said.

"Not necessarily,"Amanda said.

"You can always take my spot, John the Divine,"matt said as he got up to slip a smattering of John 's Bertie Bott 's."Full moon 's on Friday, so I wo n't be going."

"Maybe you can convert Madam Pomfrey, since it 's educational,"Kaden said.

Matt popped a bean into his mouth and then promptly spat it out."Ew, malicious gossip. Does n't matter what dame Pomfrey says. Day after the wide-cut moon ? I 'll be asleep. You 'll just have to take bank bill and let me fuck what happens."

John groaned."I 'll pass on your spot if I have to fill notes."

"soul 's going to have to withdraw notes either way,"lustrelessness said."I 'll need them for the essay that Embry will assign."

"Do n't worry, I 'll pick out short letter,"Rose told him.

"Thanks,"matt replied."Now, who 's wants this bean plant ? It looks just the like poop, but it could be chocolate."matt held up a suspiciously dark-brown bean.

"I 'll involve it !"John said. He took a tiny nibble, screwed up his face, and threw the rest of the dome back at Matt, hitting him feather on the forehead."Thanks, better half, another dirt."

Albus laughed and took a handful of beans. The end of the trip was much more blithe than their conversation about the campaign tactic of Laurentis and Harry Hotspur. They finished off privy 's Bertie Bott 's, growing braver as the box emptied. Albus stopped after he got a vomit flavored one, but enjoyed it immensely when Kaden ate one of the Saame nip. The train ride went quickly and soon they arrived in Hogsmeade station with Hogwarts, Albus 's second household, just a shortsighted go-cart ride away.


Sorry for the later update ! My cousin got married on Friday so I was gone the whole weekend and did n't have my calculator with me. Thanks to my sister, Linda, who in my family, is just like Amanda and can eavesdrop on everyone. She gave me the estimation for that. Thanks for all the lovely reviews !


"This term we will concenter on how the first base and second base warfare against Voldemort shaped how the Ministry of Magic is organized today,"Professor Embry announced after the bell rang for Tues 's politics year."This contribution of the class will overlap with your account of thaumaturgy class quite a bit, although I 'd gamble a guess that none of you pay attention in account of Magic, not that I blame you. I never could outride awake in that socio-economic class either.

"First, we will take a closer spirit at exactly how the Ministry was organized prior to Voldemort 's rising to power and why it was such a problem,"Embry continued."Part of the reason why Voldemort was able-bodied to rise to office as quickly as he did was because the Ministry was susceptible to a takeover. Since then, safeguard have been taken to forestall a similar situation. Does anyone have sex the main deviation between the Ministry before Voldemort and the Ministry now ?"

A few hands went up in the air, including Amanda 's. Albus knew the answer, but he did n't really desire to raise his hand. He preferred listening during class.

"Yes, Miss Tagger ?"

"The Minister was n't elected,"Amanda said,"which is odd because the Muggle Minister is elected, sort of. It 's not like in the United province, but the public voter turnout on which party will be in power."

"Exactly,"Embry said."Prior to the reorganization of the Ministry of conjuring trick in 1998, the Minister was appointed by the Wizengamot. Can anyone enjoin me why that is a problem ?"

Amanda 's hand shot into the air once more. She was even dissipated than Rose in this class.

"fille Tagger ?"

"It was bad because the people had no top executive. Only the Wizengamot had any power in the Ministry, because they were the ones who appointed the parson, who then appointed all the other officials. No one had any say in anything."

"Right again. Ten decimal point to Gryffindor,"Embry said."The Wizengamot, prior to 1998, was a group of very influential witches and wizards, mostly purebloods, who essentially ran the Ministry of Magic. They also served as the juridic arrangement. These beldame and virtuoso inherited their ass on the Wizengamot from family members because each influential household in the British wizarding mankind once held a seat in the Wizengamot. The trouble with this are obvious because it meant that only thoroughbred and a prize few half-bloods had any semblance of power."

Albus was scribbling furiously. He knew the basics of the political system just from overhearing his parents'conversations, but the details were hazy. Now that he was learning the gritty contingent, he wondered why it took so long for the Ministry to be reorganized. It seemed like it was based solely on blood condition and how much money somebody had, which was n't right.

Embry continued to explain the old Ministry and the diverse magnate that each person or group of people in the Ministry had prior to Voldemort 's sovereignty. By the end of the lecture Albus had just over a base of line, which was in force because Embry had already set them an essay.

"Before you leave, I 'll announce who will be attending Sat 's debate,"Embry said after he finished lecturing."Like last-place sentence, Albus Potter, Rose Weasley, and Matt Eckerton will be capable to hang. The two Hufflepuffs who will be attending are Elaine Asterly and Parker Wayland. The two Gryffindors are Amanda Tagger and Ethan Kesse. You will report to the Great Hall at ten and wait for statement from the prefects waiting by the room access. Everyone else will be listening to the debate via wireless in the Transfiguration Day classroom. I expect an essay on which candidate you feel made their full point better by next class. You are dismissed."

"I guess I wo n't get to go to all the debates after all,"Amanda said as they left the classroom.

"This one will be thoroughly, though,"Rose said."You 're favorable they picked you for it."

"want I got picked,"Saint John lamented.

"I 'm telling you, just go instead of me,"matt insisted."William Tell them I 'm ill and you 're taking my spot."

"I really do n't reckon they 'll let-"

"provision on being ill on Sabbatum, are you ?"

Albus and his friends stopped in the heart of the corridor, turning around to see Scorpius Malfoy behind them, his blazonry crossed across his chest. He looked arrogant and vaguely annoyed as usual, but there was something else there. He looked slightly upset and for some reason, that unnerved Albus.

"present it a rest, Malfoy,"John said, stepping closer to the Slytherin."We get that you know. We 've gotten over it."

Scorpius stepped close, ignoring privy and turning to mat."How do you get into the scream hutch ?"he demanded.

lusterlessness 's face paled. John grabbed hold of Scorpius 's robes and dragged him into a nearby schoolroom. John had at to the lowest degree four in on Malfoy, so it did n't look difficult. Albus and the others followed, rosebush shutting and locking the room access behind them.

"Why do you need to know about the Shrieking Shack ?"John asked as he let go of Scorpius.

"None of your business organisation,"Scorpius said, glancing at the shut up door. He slowly drew his baton.

John drew his own scepter."Put your verge away. And it 's his business which makes it all of our business."John gestured to flatness, who had sat down on one of the desks.

"There 's five of you. Like sin I 'm putting my wand away. So I am right, he does transform in the screech Shack,"Scorpio said with a sly grin. The look of sadness Albus thought he 'd seen was gone ; maybe he 'd imagined it.

"John Lackland !"Matt exclaimed."Now look what you 've done !"

"Sorry,"John said."I did n't signify to-"

"Never mind,"Matt said, getting up from the desk and walk over to lav and Scorpio."How did you figure it out ?"

"Where else could you translate safely ?"Scorpio asked."I did a little research in the library and that was built the summer before Remus lupin started at Hogwarts and everyone knows he was a werewolf. No one ever lived in it, but people reported discover weird noises from it. Everyone said it was ghosts, but they went strangely repose seven year later, only to reappear four and a half years ago, when we started at Hogwarts. Quite a coincidence, I thought. And now I see that I 'm right."

Albus was sort of aghast Scorpius had done all that research and put everything together. Perhaps he was smarter than Albus and his friends gave him credit for.

"fountainhead, you ca n't severalise anyone, just like you ca n't secern anyone I 'm a lycanthrope,"matte said."Kendrick would expel you."

"I do n't give care that it 's where you transmute,"Scorpius said."The point is that it 's empty except for one night of the month. How do you get in ?"

"I 'm not telling,"matte said.

"Fine, I 'll figure it out myself,"Scorpio said, pointing his wand at the room access. The ringlet clicked and he strolled over to the door, opened it, and left.

"That was weird,"Albus said as soon as Scorpius was gone.

"Yeah,"Matt said, sitting down on the nearest desk."Why does he want to get in the Shrieking Shack ?"

"Clearly he needs someplace that 's discharge, but the question is what is he planning on doing ?"pink wine asked."And did anyone else notice that he seemed a bit sad in the corridor ?"

"I thought I 'd imagined that,"Albus said.

"You did n't. He 's definitely upset about something,"blush wine said.

Matt groaned."He near not actually enter out how to get in there."

"If he does, he would n't be dull enough to go in there during a full moon,"Albus pointed out.

"Yeah, but still. That 's my space,"Matt muttered."I need a nap. I think I 'm going to skip dinner and just go back to Gryffindor. I 'll see you later."

Matt hopped off the desk and left the room. Albus sighed. The in conclusion thing he wanted, amidst all of the election stuff and nonsense and his kinsperson 's drama, was another egress with Scorpio Malfoy, but it looked like matter were heading in that direction.
***


The following morning when Albus and his admirer entered the Great Hall for breakfast the students already eating were a lot louder than normal. Albus turned to Rose, who shrugged in confusion, as they walked inside. Everyone in the room, students and teachers alike, were talking ominously. Copies of the prophet were exchanging hands faster than the Quaffle during a Gryffindor/Slytherin match.

"Albus !"James shouted once they reached the Gryffindor table."Read this. There 's been a break-out at Azkaban."

"Again ?"Albus exclaimed, hurrying over to where James was sitting. He took the newspaper and his friends crowded around him.

"Not like end time,"James said darkly."High-profile captive and more of them. Death eater. There has n't been a break-out like this in long time. Not since our parents were our age."

Albus 's tenderness began to pound sterling as he unfolded the report. There it was, right on the strawman page. A big photo montage of five people, all gaunt and evil-looking, was right in the middle, with the words 'Five captive Break Out of Azkaban'above them and an article below them. Albus 's venter churned when he recognized the picture of the middle prisoner. It was Quinton Willinson. His eyes drifted to the article so he could figure out who the others were.

Early this morning Azkaban officials
reported that five gamey surety prisoner
escaped late last night. It is unclear how
they managed to do so. The prisoner, all
imprisoned for felonies, should be regarded
as dangerous and should not be approached.

4 of the five captive have been in
Azkaban since 1998, having been imprisoned
for war crime. They are Alecto Carrow,
Amycus Carrow, Fenrir Calidris canutus, and Dolores
Umbridge. All but Umbridge are proven Death
eater. The fifth prisoner, Quinton Willinson,
has been in and out of prison since 2018,
having escaped and been recaptured just stopping point
class.

'Finding and recapturing these individual is
our top priority ,'Head Auror, Harry ceramicist,
said to reporter early this morning. pastor
candidate and Head Azkaban official, Patricia
Laurentis, refused to comment on the break-out.
The Auror department has asked all those with
tips to report them to the Ministry via owl
immediately.

Albus sat stunned after reading the article. Three Death Eaters, Dolores Umbridge, and Quinton Willinson had escaped from Azkaban. How did that happen ? How did five in high spirits security prisoners just escape with no one stopping them ? It did n't make sense.

"This is not going to make Laurentis look near,"Amanda said quietly.

"Forget Laurentis, this is bad,"Albus said."Very bad. Umbridge is iniquity, bend evil. My dad 's got scrape on his manus from what she did to him when she was a instructor here. And the Carrows, they were teacher, too. They taught Dark liberal arts. Not defense, but actual darkness artistic creation, and how to torment Muggles. Greyback-"

"Greyback bites hoi polloi, for fun,"mat said, his brass pale White River."He 's the one who bit teddy 's dad."

"The four of them,"Albus began,"the four of them make Quinton Willinson look like a unicorn."

"That 's the weird thing,"rosiness said."The others are in prison for life for war crimes. Willinson will be in there for a patch, but he 'll get word of honor eventually and the solitary reason he 's a gamey protection prisoner is because he escaped before. So why did he fracture out with the others ? Why did they let him in on it ? They 're up to something."

Albus had n't even thought of that. Why was Quinton Willinson now connected with war crook who had been in prison since before he was born ? It did n't make sense. Albus thought about it throughout all his classes that day, but did n't come up with any answers.

It was obvious that the Azkaban break-out had unnerved the intact castle. Professors spoke in low rustling when they thought students were n't around, scholarly person no longer wandered the palace by themselves, and even Scorpio Malfoy seemed a bit more subdued during dueling practice on Th.

All five prisoners still remained at with child on Friday, when Ministry officials began arriving for the public debate. Laurentis still had yet to comment on the break-out, which struck Albus as strange. Azkaban was her soil and yet she said nothing on the subject.

"Is it just me or are there even more reporters here than there were finally time ?"Albus asked.

"It 's not just you,"Amanda said.

Albus, Matt, lav, and Amanda were walking back to the castling from forethought of Magical Creatures. It was slowly going since the total synodic month was that Nox and Matt was exhausted, but luckily the weather was unseasonably warm for January. They 'd just been passed by a group of hurried looking newsman coming up from Hogsmeade.

"There 's probably more because of the break-out,"lustrelessness said."Laurentis is going to have to finally say something about it tomorrow since the subject is Azkaban."

"doe anyone else think it 's weird that there was a break-out three days before the Azkaban public debate ?"Albus asked.

"I thought of that, too,"Amanda said."Very weird coincidence."

"Well, it 'll be good for your uncle,"King John said."Laurentis is going to look like an idiot, not being able to keep five high surety prisoners in Azkaban."

Albus nodded. He supposed that was one good thing that came from three destruction feeder escaping from Azkaban, not that there was anything good about it.

"I 'm skipping appealingness,"Matt said through a yawning."And antediluvian Runes."

"I 'm surprise you did n't hop precaution of Magical Creatures,"John said.

Matt shrugged."I felt okay earlier, probably because of the nap I took in story of Magic."

lavatory laughed."I felt much better after my nap in account of magic trick, too."

"Very funny,"Matt said as they reached the castle.

Albus found it increasingly difficult to concentrate on anything for the rest of the day. By the time he went to antediluvian Runes he was unable to think about anything besides the break-out and the fact that Death Eaters were now roaming free. Deep down he knew he was perfectly safe at Hogwarts, but it was still troubling.

Professor Kendrick welcomed the Ministry officials to Hogwarts at dinner that dark and Albus thought back to the last debate, when Hogwarts had housed the Ministry official. He was very gladiolus that this prison term he would n't be confessing to a prank to his uncle in the Gryffindor mutual way. Neither John or Kaden had done their revenge japery to the Slytherins yet and Albus sort of hoped they would n't.

After a fitful slumber Albus woke early on Sat morning and contemplated visiting lustrelessness before everyone else woke up, but figured that matte would be deceased and thus it would be pointless to visit. He 'd visit with everyone else later, after the public debate. They 'd take pot of sentence sine there was n't going to be a question and answer school term this sentence.

At ten o'clock Albus, blush wine, and Amanda stood in agate line in front of the Great Hall, waiting to be let inside. John had decided not to devil asking if he could take Matt 's position, since he did n't want to pull any tending to the fact that Matt was not there.

"Albus,"Rose whispered, poking him in the side."expression. Malfoy 's here."

Albus glanced over to where rosebush was pointing and saw that Scorpius was in fact waiting in parentage. He looked sullen and perturbation again and Albus wished he knew why. It was weird seeing Malfoy, the usually arrogant putz, upset.

"supposition he won the Slytherin slur,"Albus said.

The doors to the Great Hall opened and Albus and Rose said goodbye to Amanda before they were lead to the front of the room by a Slytherin prefect. They were seated in the same row they were before, along with the quietus of their Hogwarts cousin-german.

The Great Hall slowly filled up over the future one-half hour. The rest of Albus 's cousins, auntie, and uncles arrived, taking dapple in the front few wrangle. Albus caught GA 's eye as she took her fanny in the row on the diametric side of the way from him and she gave him a slight grin.

Albus wondered if Laurentis 's campaign managing director had actually found anything on Uncle Percy and whether she would say anything during the argument. With the break-out, he hoped she 'd been too engaged to dig up a lot dirt or even think about exposing anything.

Albus turned to the front of the way and watched a very short man accompany professor Kendrick to the moderator 's podium. He was dressed in Ministry blue robes and had very little hair's-breadth on his head.

"tending, please !"Kendrick shouted. The crowd quieted."Thank you. I 'd wish to welcome all of you to Hogwarts and introduce our moderator for this first light. superior Farleigh, header of the Department of Magical Transportation."

"Thank you, prof,"the light, balding man said."I 'd now wish to introduce our candidate, although I am sure as shooting you all know them. Mr. Percy Weasley and Ms. Patricia Laurentis."

Percy and Laurentis walked into the elbow room from one of the hall and took their piazza at each of the ambo. Walker Percy looked as convinced as always and Laurentis, despite the scandal of the break-out, looked poised and excited.

"Today we will be debating the judicial system, specifically Azkaban prison,"Farleigh announced."The usual rules apply. Five minute arguments, two mo rebuttals."

Laurentis inched closer to her pulpit, as if she was readying herself to pounce on whatever Sir Henry Percy said. Percy remained calm and collected, continuing to play the purpose of the cool politician.

"Mr. Weasley, you will answer first. Do you experience that the judicial system as a whole is reasonable to both the accused and victims of crime ? Are the condemnation handed out by the Wizengamot bazaar ?"

"I believe everyone is able to get a funfair tryout by the Wizengamot,"Percy began."I have reviewed many instance, and while I am not nor do I pretend to be a solicitor, and I feel that the majority of the time handed out by the Wizengamot fit the criminal offence. However, there is always a hazard that a someone guilty of a crime will go dislodge, as there is an equal probability that someone will be wrongfully imprisoned. The juridical organisation works hard to pee sure this happens as infrequently as possible and corrects wrongfulness when they do occur."

"Ms. Laurentis ?"

"I disagree with my opponent,"Laurentis said."Most of the sentences handed out by the Wizengamot are not rough enough. Ever since the licking of Voldemort prison sentences have grown shorter, with the exception of those imprisoned for war law-breaking. And one guilty soul who roams unloose is too many. If I am elect Minister I will work hard to ensure that no guilty multitude get off. prisoner belong in Azkaban and the Wizengamot is far too lenient."

"Your rebuttal, Mr. Weasley."

"While a goal of not having any shamed the great unwashed get set relieve is worthy, it is unrealistic,"Percy said."The Wizengamot is composed of witches and wizards like you and me. They are not any more knock-down than we are and do not possess the ability to know for sure that the accused are shamed. mistake happen and while we should work to minimize them, it is very unrealistic to say that we can get rid of them completely. Ms. Laurentis is offering simulated hope."

"I am not offering false hope,"Laurentis said."There are spells, potions, ways to find out if masses are guilty that the Wizengamot does not use. If I am elected Minister I will approve use of these and they will assist the Wizengamot in ensuring that no shamefaced felon are set free."

Albus agreed with his uncle. There was no potential way Laurentis could guarantee that all outlaw would be imprisoned.

"Next doubt,"Farleigh said."Ms. Laurentis, you will go first. Do you sense the word system is effective ?"

Laurentis gave a wry smiling before beginning."Much like the Wizengamot, the parole system of rules is too soft. I have seen outlaw shamefaced of grand theft get paroled after a mere two years in prison. The statistics are unmortgaged, almost of these crook who are paroled early on in their time wind up back in Azkaban within a year, whether for breaking the rules of their parole or committing another crime. As Head of Azkaban, I am able to give my input of whether a prisoner is paroled or not, but in the end it is up to the Wizengamot."

"Mr. Weasley."

"As my antagonist has said, many criminals are paroled too quickly. However, I do not believe that leaving them in Azkaban thirster is the solution. If I am elected I will create and support a better system for integrating crook back into society. Muggles have seen success with halfway houses and I feel we should try that in wizarding society."

"Halfway houses ?"Laurentis said with raised eyebrows."An intriguing idea. However, Mr. Weasley lacks the experience that I have with dealing with prisoner. Most are not fit for society and many never will be. Even with halfway houses they will twist up back in Azkaban. Why spend the money on trying to rehabilitate when it wo n't work ?"

"It 's about giving people a hazard,"Harry Hotspur said."Not everyone is a lost cause and should be written off so quickly. Many prisoner have made a few bad choices as a solution of bad puerility and a bit of rehabilitation will set them straight."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Farleigh said."adjacent question. Is Azkaban an appropriate spot to house prisoners ? Is the facility still doing its job ?"

Percy shifted a bit before answering."Azkaban is an set aside quickness for high gear security system prisoners, but I have always felt that we need a less intimidating building to sign our lower security system prisoner. Right now all felon, from those who committed little theft or skipped bail bond to those who have murdered people, are all housed in Azkaban. I have been to Azkaban. Despite the fact that it is no longer in control of the dementors it is still a terrifying and high certificate place. It also requires a lot of money for its care. If we were to make a smaller construction located on the mainland to theater depleted security prisoners, we would be able to decrease spending at Azkaban itself. We could then increase security at Azkaban without wasting effort and money on less dangerous criminals."

"Ms. Laurentis."

"How is building another facility going to carry through money ?"Laurentis asked."Once again you show your ignorance in the judicial system and Azkaban. I believe that Azkaban is doing its job perfectly well. I am in thrill of the prison, including its care and it is in perfect condition. We are not spending an outrageous amount of money on the shoes. Further, I do not believe that LE life-threatening criminals deserve a lower security prison. They are all criminals and if they did not wish to be in Azkaban, they should not ingest committed a crime."

"Maintaining Azkaban is expensive,"Sir Henry Percy said."It is also extremely difficult to hire guards because of its location and world-wide feel of the place, not to mention the grave felon. If we housed less dangerous criminals in another building, it would be easy to find guards to cultivate there. We could then use the precaution volition to ward high security prisoners only to guard high security system captive. We would no longer have to waste them on lower security prisoners."

"But we will still have got to maintain Azkaban, and then another building,"Laurentis pointed out."It just makes far Sir Thomas More sense to keep all criminals in one home and an island is a good lieu to do that-"

"Obviously not that practiced, given the escape-"

"Mr. Weasley,"Farleigh interrupted."You are speaking out of turn. It is prison term to move on to the next doubt. In light of the Recent Azkaban break-out, what do you feel needs to be done to insure it does not happen again ?"

Laurentis gazed out over the crowd. Albus felt like she was looking directly at him, but assumed she just had that ability to come out to be looking every person in the eye at once. She then turned to Percy and gave him one of those creepy smiles that seemed to stimulate become her touch facial expression. Albus turned to rose wine, who raised her eyebrows and shrugged.

"I am well aware that I have remained quiet on the subject field of the break-out,"Laurentis began,"and I have done that on purpose. I see that all of the newsperson in the back have their Quik-Quotes quill poised and make to spell down my every word on this subject. Surely you 're all hoping to be the commencement to issue my thoughts.

"You 're probably all assuming I will traverse that there is anything wrong with the security at the prison and that the break-out was a mere fluke and it wo n't happen again. I am not going to say either. There is a job and if we do not fix it, it will happen again. Every single one of those run away prisoners is highly severe and if we do not recapture them soon, who knows what will pass. When they are captured, we will require to ingest near security measures in place. After all, what is more authoritative that the safety of our nestling ? With those five prisoner roaming free, every person in this way, in this castle, in this rural area is in danger.

"Fortunately, I have a answer. It is a controversial solution, but I feel we need to go to extremes to protect our home, especially our minor. That is why if elected Minister, the first thing I will do is reestablish the dementors as Azkaban guards."


Sorry about the cliff hanger ! I did n't want to do it but the chapter was twice as long as they normally are and there really was n't a good seat to divide it. Thanks for all the lovely review article !


Albus let out a gasp, as did everyone else in the room. The Great Radclyffe Hall was suddenly in topsy-turvydom. Everyone was whispering and a few people had let out war cry of outrage or fervor. Albus could practically get a line the newsperson'quills scratching across roller of sheepskin, and Laurentis was grinning again. Percy stood behind his podium, his mouth seeming to be frozen in a wide, gaping position. Farleigh was attempting to clear order, and failing.

"That is literally insane !"pink wine exclaimed."Reinstate the dementors ? Is she mad ? Is she throwing the election ?"

"I do n't have a go at it,"Albus said."But she must be mad. Will hoi polloi actually okay of this ? Will she even be able-bodied to do it ?"

Rose nodded."Whoever she gets to replace herself as fountainhead of Azkaban will surely want the dementors back, too. Then she 'll O.K. it as pastor and it 'll pass."

"But it would be stupid to bring them back,"Albus said.

"It would,"Rose agreed."They 're grave and their allegiance modification so easily. But to be reliable, I 'm not trusted everyone will sense that way. Not with those prisoner on the loose."

"silence, lull !"professor Kendrick shouted. The crowd finally settled down.

"Mr. Weasley, it is your crook to verbalise,"Farleigh said exasperatingly.

Percy shook his capitulum to retrieve his composure. He 'd suffer his cool, composure, and collected politician look and now he looked more like he did after arguing with Georgia about her Quidditch career.

"Well, I, er, do not consider that dementors are the answer to the certificate trouble in Azkaban,"Harry Hotspur said."What we need are more skilled safeguard in bearing of high school security captive as well as a revamp of the spells and enchantments currently keeping prisoners inside. It will also help to go over the brass of the guard schedule because at the prison term of the escape, only three precaution were maintaining that function of the prison house. That was surely an oversight that could consume been prevented."

"Human error,"Laurentis said."It happens and it will happen again. Can we really risk the biography of our child in the luck that another fault will pass ? Dementors were demonstrate guards who did not allow for prisoner to get away. During their reign in Azkaban, before their loyalty changed, only one individual managed to escape. Since their removal we have had legion escapes."

"Clear grounds that we need to revamp prison security,"Percy said."But dementors are not the resolution. They are serious fauna and as you said, their dedication changed. What 's to say that wo n't happen again if, God forbid, another Voldemort were to rise to index ? If anyone offered those dementors a better deal than we did they 'd have a whole prison house of grave criminals at their disposal to do their bidding. It 's not Worth the risk."

"Another Voldemort is not going to rebel to power,"Laurentis said with a laughter."We have learned from our history and it wo n't happen again."

"You ca n't guarantee that,"Sir Henry Percy said."Even if there is a very small chance of it happening, it is not worth risking having dementors guard Azkaban."

"Mr. Weasley, Ms. Laurentis,"Farleigh said."It is clock time to prompt on-"

"You are talking about a hypothetical !"Laurentis exclaimed, throwing her work force up in the air."I am talking about what is happening now ! Five life-threatening criminals have escaped, four of whom were on Voldemort 's side during the war, and are out there, wreaking havoc as we speak. If the dementors were guarding Azkaban this never would have happened."

"Now look who 's talking hypotheticals !"Harry Hotspur shouted back, ignoring Farleigh 's vain try to get both candidates to stop talking."For all we know they would 've escaped anyway !"

Laurentis let out a rich laugh."Five prisoner escape when the dementors are allied with the Ministry ? That 's derisory. Only one individual was able to do that and it was because he was an Animagus. None of the prisoners are Animagi. We test for that before admitting anyone to the prison."

"Be that as it may, dementors are dangerous magical animal. Not to mention the moral philosophy of subjecting prisoners to their effects-"

"Prisoners have no rightfield,"Laurentis said."They give up their rights when they commit crimes-"

"Basic human rights !"Percy exclaimed."There are staple human right wing that everyone deserves ! talking about learning from our history. History tells us what happens when somebody believes they are above others. Or do you not remember the reign of Voldemort ?"

"I lost my mother to that war !"Laurentis said."Do n't you distinguish me that I do n't remember it."

Albus was on the boundary of his seat. His uncle was so red in the face that he was starting to move around regal and resemble Kaden 's grandad. Laurentis 's hair was breaking disembarrass from its tight bun and there was a vein popping out in her forehead. Farleigh was still trying to get both candidates to stop talking and failing miserably, while every former someone in the Great Hall sat completely still, staring at Sir Henry Percy and Laurentis.

"Silence !"Professor Kendrick shouted in a magically overdraw voice.

Both Percy and Laurentis immediately quieted. The nervure on Laurentis 's forehead continued to throb, and Percy still looked like an overripe tomato.

"I think we 've run out of fourth dimension,"Farleigh said, in a voice barely more than a squeak."Thank you all for coming."

"scholar, please return to your coarse suite,"Kendrick announced."tiffin will be in an hour. As a reminder, there is no question and result seance today."

The whispering rose up immediately after Kendrick stopped speaking and since everyone was whispering the noise layer rose very high. Albus, Rose, and Amanda joined the queue of people ambling to depart the Great Hall, and without even talking about it, went immediately to the Marauder 's Den, where they found King John and Kaden.

"What the bloody hell is she trying to do ?"King John asked as soon as Albus shut the doorway.

"She 's lost her mind !"rosebush shouted as she began pacing around the elbow room."She has legitimately lost her mind. That 's the sole explanation."

"well there 's no way she 'll win now,"Albus pointed out."Dementors ?"

"It 's a bit convenient, do n't you reckon ?"Rose asked."This break-out happens and then she announces she wants the dementors back ? It did n't sound like a plan she 'd just come up with."

"We 've got to obtain out if she 's tried to get them back before,"Albus said."If she has it 'll be in the oracle tomorrow."

"Dementors ..."Kaden murmured."They 're what sucked all the felicity out of us when we were in Australia last twelvemonth, right ?"

Albus nodded."They 're awful creatures."

"And they used to ward the prison ?"Amanda asked incredulously."That 's just wrong."

"It is,"blush wine said darkly."That 's why after Voldemort they stopped using them as safety device. That and all the dementors changed dedication and let Death feeder escape."

"Would they even come back, though ?"Kaden asked."I mean, if they switched allegiance so easily ...."

"They 'll go wherever they 're offered the most man to feed off of."Rose shuddered."Voldemort offered them far more than even Azkaban could offer. But right now they do n't let a near author. They just travel around, feeding. They 'll guard if given the opportunity."

"Should n't people be against it ?"Amanda asked."It 's so ethically wrong."

"That 's why it was dumb of her to announce it,"Albus pointed out.

"She would n't declare anything if she did n't believe it would get her balloting,"rose said."well-nigh people our parents'age and older, who lost loved ones in the war, will take in absolutely no fellow feeling for last Eaters and would n't care if the dementors were brought back, especially if Laurentis could then secure no one would escape."

Albus had n't thought of that and apparently no one else did, either, because the elbow room grew quiet. Albus sank onto one of the couches and started counting the number of Bertie Bott 's Every-Flavor bean that were scattered on the story. He got to twenty-three before anyone said anything.

"I wonder what Malfoy thinks of all this,"John mused."Was n't his dad a Death eater ? So he should n't want the dementors back in Azkaban, but the way he was talking in the Three Broomsticks a while back made it seem like he 's very against your uncle."

"Of track he 's against my uncle,"Albus said."His unanimous family disfavor my whole house and it goes the other way, too. But his dad was never found guilty of his crimes so he never did time in Azkaban."

"Surely his dad 's got friends there,"John said.

Albus shrugged."Probably."To be honest, he did n't really care what Malfoy thought about Laurentis and Uncle Sir Henry Percy.

"We should go to tiffin and then gossip Matt,"rose said."Catch him up on all this."

Albus had completely forgotten that flatness was still in the hospital annex, in the midst of Laurentis 's proclamation. He felt vaguely guilty about it, but at least pink wine had remembered.

Everyone gathered for lunch in the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall was talking about Laurentis 's desire to bestow back the dementors. Percy, Laurentis, and the Ministry officials were still there, having lunch with the professors at the staff table, and all were deep in discussion. Albus would 've loved to be able to listen in on their conversations, but wearing the Invisibility Cloak in the crowded Great Hall was n't a secure theme.

"bettor get used to the idea of your dad being rector,"one of the one-seventh years was saying to Tom Bradley."No one 's going to vote for Laurentis now."

Bradley muttered something under his breath that Albus could n't take heed. Albus took a seat a few multitude down from his cousin and began to piddle a sandwich.

"She 's got my whole family 's suffrage now,"one of the other seventh long time said."Both of my grandparents were killed by Fenrir Rebel. If the dementors will bewitch him and keep him in there forever, it 'd make all of us sleep better."

There were a few nods from former old student sitting nearby. Albus was slightly shocked. If this many scholar approved of her idea, a lot of adults probably did, too. And these were seventh years ; they could vote.

"delay, the dementors find criminals, too ?"Kaden asked."I thought that 's what Aurors did."

"Only the really dreadful escaped prisoners,"Albus said."My dad 's Godfather, Sirius, when he escaped, the dementors were given permission to make him the Dementor 's buss if they caught him."

"What 's the Dementor 's Kiss ?"Amanda asked.

Albus shuddered."It 's where they suck out person 's soul."

"And they die ?"Amanda asked quietly.

Albus shook his head."No, they live without a someone. Everyone says it 's bad than dying."

"And they were going to do that to Sirius ?"Kaden replied.

Albus nodded."He was the first to escape Azkaban. He 's the one Laurentis was talking about and at the time everyone thought he murdered 13 Muggles and gave my grandparents up to Voldemort."

"That 's absolutely ugly !"Amanda exclaimed. She turned to the few sixth and one-seventh twelvemonth who had said they 'd vote for Laurentis."How can you like that on soul ?"

"If your grandparents were murdered by Death Eaters you would, too,"one of the fille snapped.

"Albus 's grandparents were murdered by Voldemort and he does n't want the dementors back at Azkaban,"Amanda pointed out.

"Well, Voldemort 's numb,"the girlfriend said."Maybe if Greyback were dead I 'd experience differently. But he 's not so I want the dementors back."

"I do n't recollect she 's going to lose as easily as we thought,"Amanda said quietly.

"Of form she 's not,"rose wine said."This is probably better for votes than digging up soil on Uncle Percy."

"It 's absolutely barbaric,"Amanda said, shoving her home plate forward."Sucking out someone 's psyche ? And they just suck your happy memories out ?"

"Yeah,"Albus answered, thinking back to the previous June. He shuddered."You 're forced to relive your worst memories."

"That 's all you can think about ?"Amanda asked."Just the bad unity ?"

Albus nodded."My dad said it makes you go mad after a while."

"Of course it does !"Amanda shouted."That 's just not compensate ! Are you lot done eating yet ? I ca n't sit here anymore."

Albus was surprise Amanda had had such a strong chemical reaction to the dementors, but he supposed coming from the Muggle world, where she had n't even bed such creatures existed, it would be a bit of a impact. He was even more storm that she 'd nearly gotten into a shouting match with a seventh year over them, when she was normally so quiet.

"I 'm done,"rosiness said.

"Me, too,"Albus said as he got up.

Saint John and Kaden each grabbed the remaining half of their sandwiches and followed the others out of the Great hall. Amanda lead the way, stomping her foot a bit more forcefully than was necessary.

"It 's just incorrect on so many point !"she said as she led them to the hospital annex."It 's torture, honestly. That 's what it is. emotional torture. Ca n't they just be killed off or something ?"

"They do n't die,"rosiness said."They ca n't. They just sort of ... exist. Once my mum gets Holy Scripture of this, well, she 's not going to outride quiet."

"And she should n't,"Amanda said."Can she stop Laurentis ?"

"Not if Laurentis is diplomatic minister,"Rose answered."Right now Mum 's the Senior supporter of Magical Law Enforcement, so if Laurentis tried to get this to pass now, my mum could help stop it. But Minister Hartwell would never put something like this through."

"They 're stinking brute,"Amanda continued."Having them ward anything or anyone is a terrible idea."

Albus decided now would not be a good fourth dimension to tell Amanda that when his dad was a third year Hogwarts was guarded by dementors.

"A dementor went after my dad once,"Kaden announced as they continued to the infirmary Wing."Albus 's dad saved him with a Patronus. Then he nearly got expelled for doing underage magic in the mien of a Muggle."

"You 're kidding,"Amanda said."God, the Ministry really was screwed up when your parents were at Hogwarts. This is the sorting of thing Embry should be using as examples."

"I doubt it 's a well-known fact,"Albus said."That the famous Harry Potter nearly got expelled."

"It 's a serious example of injustice,"Amanda said.

"You sound just like my mum,"rosebush said."It 's creepy. Does n't she ?"

Albus agreed."You do sound just like her mum."

"Your mum has the right estimate,"Amanda said as they reached the infirmary Wing.

matte was the only affected role in the Ward. The curtains were n't drawn around his bed and he was sitting up and eating a sports stadium of soup, which was a undecomposed sign. Madam Pomfrey was sitting at her desk, working on charts, and muttering to herself about something.

"Hey, how are you feeling ?"Albus asked when they got to his bed.

"Fine,"lustrelessness said."triplet cracked rib and a lot of nasty snub, but I 'm fine. Listen, I heard the debate. ma'am Pomfrey had it on on the radio. How insane is Laurentis ? ! You should have heard Madam Pomfrey ranting about her earlier."

"You 're not to reduplicate what you heard,"dame Pomfrey said."But Albus and rose, you can assure your uncle that he 's got my right to vote. Always thought he was a little pompous when he was at Hogwarts but at least he 's not dumb enough to utilise dementors as safety device of Azkaban."

"Amanda 's on a rampage,"Albus said.

"It 's kind of funny,"John added.

"It is not queer !"Amanda exclaimed."It 's serious."

"It 's just that you 're so tranquilize, but you got into it with that seventh year."

"I did not get into it with a one-seventh yr !"Amanda shouted and turned to Matt."John 's exaggerating. She announced that she and her kinfolk were all going to vote for Laurentis because her grandparents were killed by Greyback and she wants to make certain he stays in prison."

Matt toyed with his cover and did n't fit Amanda 's eye.

"What ?"she asked."Do n't tell me you want the dementors in Azkaban."

"I do n't,"Matt said quickly."It 's not that. It 's the whole Greyback affair, I can separate of see where she 's coming from. It 's got to be scary, knowing he 's out there when he killed her grandparents .... I mean, I guess I 've always been sorting of lucky. The bloke who bit me is in prison and has been since he bit me."

Albus had never heard Matt talk about the werewolf who bit him, except for mentioning that he 's in prison.

"He gets out next yr,"lustrelessness said quietly."He can get paroled."

"Do you know much about him ?"Albus asked.

"Just his public figure and how old he was,"Matt said."My parents know a bit more but they 've never told me and I 've never asked."

"Is the Australian prison guarded by dementors ?"Amanda asked.

matte shook his headspring."No, and it never has been. And I do n't think prisons should be guarded by dementors. But Greyback ... he 's scary. He 's worse than Silas Humphrey, that was the bloke who bit me. Humphrey 's attack on me, that was an accident. Greyback bit the great unwashed on role. He 'd bite people and then raise them in his pack. That 's why he liked going for Kid. Teddy 's dad ... Rebel bit him and tried to get his parents to dedicate him up. They did n't, of course, but a lot of parents did."

Albus swallowed hard. He had n't known that about teddy bear 's dad and was n't even sure if Teddy knew that. Teddy 's dad 's parents died long before teddy was born and Albus doubted his grandma knew that.

"How 'd you find that out ?"Albus asked.

"When we first moved here Amy learned about Teddy 's dad when she was catching up on British History of trick. She told me all about him and how successful he wound up being just to ca-ca me feel better. But then I decided to inquiry early werewolves and found out about Greyback in one of my dad 's script. It talked about his unscathed thing with nipping kids. It never said teddy bear 's dad specifically was one of those nestling but I figured he must 've been."

"That 's frightful,"Albus said quietly. The others nodded.

"He had a solid camp of werewolves to do his command,"Matt said."And now he 's out. What if he wants to do that again ?"

"Bite hoi polloi and make a pack ?"Albus asked.

flatness nodded."That or witness people who 've already been bitten."

Albus saw where this was going now."He 's not going to get you. Hogwarts is safe."

"That 's what everyone always says, but the yesteryear few years it really has n't. remember cobbler's last year ?"

"Technically we were n't in the castle when we got taken to Australia. We were in the Floo. So if we just stay in the castle ..."Albus pointed out.

"It 's still not a guarantee,"lustrelessness said."I wonder how many the great unwashed he bit last night."

Albus did n't answer. There was no way of knowing what Fenrir knot did during the wax moon, just like there was no way to ensure that Hogwarts would be safe. All Albus and his friends could do was hope that it would be safe and that the escaped demise feeder would be recaptured soon. Albus still thought having dementors safeguard Azkaban was an absolutely terrible idea, but after listening to mat lecture about Silas Humphrey and Fenrir Greyback, he sort of understood why some people might want the dementors back at Azkaban and thus vote for Laurentis. She might even get elected just because of this. And that, when it came down to it, was what scared Albus the most.


A/N : No cliffhanger this time ! Thanks for all the wondrous critical review ! If you like Marauder era, please check out my newest novel, Between Here and Somewhere !


"I guess Laurentis has been trying to get the dementors reinstated in Azkaban for years,"Albus said the following forenoon at breakfast, as he set down a written matter of the Prophet.

The article on the debate had been a farsighted one, taking up nearly the total straw man page. It featured a photograph of Percy and Laurentis arguing with each other, and Albus was able to see his uncle 's face turning steadily more purple, despite the fact that the ikon was in blacken and white. The article that followed detailed Laurentis 's apparently years-long cause to bring the dementors back. She had put the proposition up for vote four times and it was shot down by diplomatic minister Hartwell each metre.

"Of course he shot it down,"Rose said after skimming the article."It 's a stupefied idea. Oh, look, they 've quoted my mum. I 'll read it. 'Hermione Weasley, Senior Assistant of Magical Law Enforcement, when asked about Laurentis 's proposition, said, 'It 's absolutely barbaric. Everybody, including prisoners, have basic human rightfulness that can not be broken. I thought we 'd moved past the mean solar day when the Ministry sanctioned emotional ill-usage of its prisoner and the mentation that a woman running for Minister is proposing this is quite honestly horrifying. It is my solemn Bob Hope that the people of wizarding Britain will think long and hard about the result this will have got, not only on prisoners, but on our order as well, before they cast their votes in April. ''"

"Always one to utter her mind, your mum,"Albus said.

"I could n't agree more,"Amanda replied."Although if Laurentis wins I bet she gets sacked."

"She ca n't,"Rose said."Her job is n't appointed solely by the curate. If she were headspring of the department, then yes, but she is n't head yet. It 's confusing."

"Good,"Amanda said."We 'll require some reasonable people in there if Laurentis is elected."

"What are you lot doing today ?"John asked, steering the conversation away from the election."Kaden and I are going to spend the day plotting our new prank."

"I do n't want to know,"Rose said, holding up her manpower."I 'm probably going to go to the library."

"I 'll go with you,"Amanda said."I want to research dementors and their use in Azkaban."

"Quidditch practice,"Albus replied."All day. We 've got to get ready for the equal on Saturday against Ravenclaw. After the live match, we 've got to make sure we we win by a decently sum of points if we 're going to takeover Slytherin 's place for the Cup."

"Oh yeah,"Kaden said."Whatever happened with that Olivia girl ? She had a vast jam on James I, did n't she ?"

Albus laughed."I 've no idea."

"She sent James River a box of drinking chocolate for Christmastime,"Cedric, who had been sitting next to Albus, whispered."But you did n't hear that from me."

"I was there when he opened his presents,"Albus said.

"She gave them to him before we went home for the holiday,"Cedric explained."She hijacked our thestral carriage and wound up riding to the wagon train with us."

"How awkward was that ?"Albus asked, still giggling.

"Very,"Cedric said as he glanced over his shoulder."She stared at him the whole time."

"Creepy,"Albus said.

"Shh,"Cedric said."He 's coming over."

"I think I 'm going to go visit Matt before Quidditch practice,"Albus said."I 'll see you later ?"

"Sure,"Rose said."You know where to see me."

"And us !"John announced."marauder 's Den. clowning planning."

"I do n't want to be involved,"Albus said as he got up.

John shrugged."case yourself."

Albus hurried up to the hospital fender and managed to get inside without Madam Pomfrey noticing, although the nanny would n't throw minded him being there. But she was very preoccupied with two educatee who had somehow fused their left weapon together. Matt was already awaken and much cheerier than he had been the old day, when talking about knot. He was pretty sure lady Pomfrey was going to let him out that night, so they agreed to see in the marauder 's Den just before dinner.

Quidditch recitation went very well and Albus was fairly certain they would baffle Ravenclaw on Saturday. No one mentioned the election or Laurentis 's wanting to bring back the dementors, which was a sure sign that matter were getting back to normal at Hogwarts. Albus spent the rest of the day in the piranha 's Den working on his prep with Matt while trying to avoid hearing any theatrical role of whoremaster and Kaden 's new prank.

The calendar week went by quickly since Albus spent every moment he was n't in class on the Quidditch pitch. But the weather remained decent so it was enjoyable. The only day Albus was n't on the pitch was Thursday, when he had dueling exercise.

"When 's the next tournament ?"Amanda asked as she and Albus walked into the Transfiguration of Jesus schoolroom, where they were were scheduled to praxis. Heather was there to supervise, sitting in a corner. A few of the squad members were there already, including Malfoy.

"Weekend after this one,"Albus said."I think we 'll do well."Albus glanced over to Malfoy, expecting some sort of snarky retort from him. But he was n't even paying attention. Instead he was hunched over a long piece of sheepskin."Wonder what he 's doing ?"

Amanda shrugged."Last minute homework ?"

Suddenly, Malfoy sat up uncoiled and crumpled the spell of parchment. He shoved it into his sac and stood up, staring at Albus as he did so. He looked sullen and averted his heart after only a few seconds.

"I do n't cerebrate that 's homework,"Albus said.

"Weird,"Amanda said.

"Very,"Albus agreed."Let 's get started ! I think we should practice blocking."He took a sidelong glance at Malfoy, expecting him to gibe and take that they already knew how to block, but instead Malfoy just turned to the scholar nearest to him and began to do as Albus said. What was even weirder was that the pupil he partnered with was a back year Hufflepuff. Albus blinked to make certain he was n't seeing thing and then began shooting spells at Amanda while she blocked them.

The practice academic term got stranger as the Nox went on, in terminus of Malfoy 's conduct. Not once did he second guess what Albus said and he did n't say one Holy Writ to anyone that was n't directly related to dueling. Heather raised her eyebrow at Albus on numerous occasions since she had supervised Albus 's practices before and knew how practically Malfoy usually tried to be the maitre d'hotel. He ran out of the elbow room as soon as the praxis was over, looking vaguely upset, as he had at the argument.

"That was the unknown affair ever,"Amanda said as she and Albus walked back to the Gryffindor common room."And I witnessed my brother attempt to brew a potion this past summer and wassail it, thinking that it would change by reversal him into a wizard."

Albus burst out laughing."Was he really disappointed that he did n't get a Hogwarts letter ?"

Amanda nodded."I never thought he would but did n't assure him that. But do you have any idea why Malfoy did n't argue with you tonight ?"

"I 've no musical theme,"Albus said."But I really hope he stays this way."

"I bet it had something to do with whatever he was reading when we walked in."

"I wonder what it was."

Amanda shrugged."No thought, but I wish I did. It 's just so odd."

"Whatever it is, I hope it keeps him like this during next workweek 's tournament."

"Albus ! What if it 's something really awful ?"Amanda asked.

Albus had n't thought about that."Well, we do n't know that it is, so I do n't cause to mean about it."

"Albus, I doubt anything in force would make Malfoy close up like that,"Amanda reasoned."I 'm just saying, it might be something awful."
***


Gryffindor 's trend to play Quidditch during really bad conditions came up in full military unit on Saturday, when the unseasonably warm temperatures decided to abandon Hogwarts. In its plaza were freezing cold temperatures and a howling bamboozle storm that probably should take in resulted in the peer being canceled. But since Hogwarts never canceled Quidditch, Albus was preparing himself for a miserable equal. He wished they could bear nice weather condition, like they had when they played Slytherin in November.

The lowest clock time Albus had played in a storm this bad he 'd been in his second class and wound up in the hospital wing with the flu afterward. He certainly did not need a repeat of that so he was hoping that James I would catch the stoolie sooner rather than later.

"Fred, this is crazy,"Ryan said as they stood in the doorway of the changing rooms, waiting for the mate to set about."There is literally no way to see the canary in this."

"There 's nothing I can do about it,"Fred snapped. Everyone could tell he was stressed about this match, since they 'd lost to Slytherin."We have to play unless Kendrick calls it off."

Ryan was right. Albus stared out onto the lurch and all he saw was white. The C was swirling and blowing and Albus could n't differentiate if more blow was actually falling or if it was all just getting blown around. But either way, finding a snitcher in it was going to be nigh impossible.

"I 'll see it,"William James said confidently."Do n't worry."

"We 're not going to be able to get wind the commentary,"Fred said."Just entrance it as soon as you can. Do n't care about catching it after we 're up a certain number of pointedness. We just need a win at this point."

There was a very benumb, pipe down roar of applause and Fred led the squad out onto the pitch. The balls were released and Albus flew up into the raging tempest. Soon, he did n't screw which way was up or down, let alone where the Quaffle was. After about ten minutes of meandering around the pitch, not knowing where he was going, the Quaffle suddenly appeared. Albus caught it, but had no idea where the end posts were.

Albus flew straight ahead, hoping it was in the right commission, but instead of reaching the finish posts, he reached the stands. Groaning, he turned and headed toward the goal post. At least he now knew where they were. He managed to score, mostly because Ravenclaw 's Keeper did n't see him.

The match continued in chaos, with no one knowing where anyone else was. Albus did n't see a single Bludger the whole meter and assumed the Beaters were just trying to keep runway of them rather than trying to get them to hit the polar team 's role player. Fred had been right about the commentary ; Albus could n't hear a tidings of it.

It felt like he was playing a match by himself. The only other instrumentalist he saw were the Ravenclaw seeker, Fred, and Scots heather. They had given up chasing as a team and instead, when one of them got the Quaffle, they flew it down to the destination posts as best they could.

"Albus, Albus !"mortal shouted.

Albus turned and squinted, but he could n't ca-ca out anyone flying near him.

"Albus !"

Albus continued flying in a circle trying to enter out who it was. He did n't even make out their voice, but it could have been distorted by the farting. Finally, he began to spend a penny out a figure flying toward him. It was Heather.

"Albus !"she shouted once she reached him."The match has been canceled. We 're all to return to our common room right now."

Albus nodded, figuring that Kendrick finally came to his gage. It was just impossible to bet a good game of Quidditch in a storm like this.

When Albus and Calluna vulgaris finally reached the changing room they found the rest of the squad sitting in their wet Quidditch gown, their faces picket. Albus noticed that even Heather looked slightly afraid.

"What 's going on ?"Albus asked.

"You were flying so high, you probably did n't hear,"Fred said as Albus sat down."The lucifer was n't canceled because of the weather."

"But it 's so bad out there,"Albus said."That match was pointless."

"One of the Ravenclaw maiden years,"Fred continued, ignoring Albus,"she was late to the match and on her way down she saw-"Fred paused, swallowing hard."She saw Fenrir knot on the grounds."

"What ?"Albus exclaimed, suddenly feeling nauseous."But it 's so snowy. How could she possibly know for sure ?"

"She ca n't, of course,"Fred said."But she went running to Professor Longbottom as soon as she reached the pitch and told him. That 's when they canceled the couple and sent everyone back to the castle."

As if he heard Fred mention his name, Professor Longbottom walked into the changing way, looking scared himself."I 'm going to escort you all back to the common elbow room. Wands out as we walk."

Albus drew his wand and followed the rest of his mate out of the changing rooms. They were all quiet on the walkway back to the castle since the violent storm was still raging. No one would have been able to hear anything anyone said, even if anyone felt like talking. Albus felt too ill to talk. The thinking of Fenrir Greyback being unloosen was bad enough, after hearing what lustrelessness knew about him, but the cerebration of him being here, on the Hogwarts grounds, was too awful to even consider about.

As they walked up to the castle and then up to Gryffindor column Albus kept telling himself that it was fully possible that the Ravenclaw girl had n't seen Fenrir Johnny Reb. She was probably just thinking about the escaped prisoner and imagined something. Albus had n't even been able to make out his own cousin when she 'd been calling his name in this storm. What were the fortune of a foremost year being capable to clean out Fenrir Greyback ?

But still ... what if it had been Reb ? He had to be somewhere, so why not Hogwarts ?

The vulgar room was buzzing with chattering when the team entered a short patch later. Albus avoided everyone, including his friends, until after he went up to his dormitory to use up a rain shower. He was shivering and felt frightful and did n't need to talk to anyone until after he was in dry clothes.

To his surprise his protagonist were all gathered in his residence hall after he got out of the exhibitor. Bilius and Ethan were n't there, and the room access was shut.

"We ca n't go to the predator 's Den,"Matt explained."We 're not allowed to forget our coarse rooms until further notice."

"Are they doing an investigation ?"Albus asked as he sat down on his bed."And what exactly happened ? Fred only explained a footling before Longbottom came to bring us back to the castle."

"It was weird,"rosebush said."No one really eff what was happening because it was so white and the twist was so aloud. We could n't see the match, so we were just standing there using a lot of heating charms and hoping affair would be over soon. But then we started hearing voicelessness about Greyback on the earth. Then, probably two instant later, Kendrick magically amplified his voice and told us all that we 're to report back to our usual elbow room immediately and to take the air back with our wands out and in large groups.

"So then, even though Kendrick never said for sure, we knew that soul had seen Limnodromus griseus on the ground. It was so scarey. Eventually we found out that one of the Ravenclaw first years thought she saw him on her way to the compeer and told Professor Longbottom. But besides that we do n't bonk much. No one 's told us anything for trusted and we 've just been hanging out here and talking."

"But what 's he doing here ?"Kaden asked."And I thought there were Aurors guarding Hogwarts."

"It was planned,"flatness said."Do n't you see ? That storm out there is so bad that no one can see three feet in front of them and the winding is so loud no one can learn anything either. It was the hone day for him to sneak onto the grounds, and if that girl had n't seen him who knows what he would 've done."

"So you think she really saw him ?"Albus asked skeptically."You said it yourself, no one can see anything."

"For all we know he said something to her,"lustrelessness said."No one knows the full write up yet."

"But why ?"Kaden asked."Seems really stupid to me. If he escaped he should be hiding out in the spate, not going to Hogwarts where there are Aurors."

"Remember what I said after he escaped ?"Matt asked quietly."This just confirms it. He 's going to try to create his own wolfman army again. He was insane before Azkaban ; think how unbalanced he is now. They do n't necessitate dementors in prison to make masses go insane."

"And you think-"

"That he came to try and figure out how to best position himself to bite kids during the full Moon ?"lustrelessness interrupted."Yeah, I do."

Albus shuddered."That 's sick."

"That 's what he does,"mat said. He looked more worried than everyone else."But what I do n't get is why it seems like he 's trying for Hogwarts kids. Last time he went for really Pres Young kids."

"But we do n't even know for sure that 's what he 's up to,"Saint John the Apostle pointed out."I mean it makes mother wit, but we still do n't know."

"Still,"Matt said."You have to predict me you wo n't go exterior during the full-of-the-moon moon. I do n't desire any of you joining me in the Shack."

John looked skeptical."There 's other cause why he could be here."

"promise me,"flatness repeated, staring directly at John."It 's not worth the risk."

trick shrugged."Yeah, I promise."Everyone else nodded.

"What about the relaxation of them ?"Amanda asked."Do you think they 're working together ?"

"I do n't bed,"Albus began."I 'm for sure the Carrows are together and Umbridge might be with them. But I doubt Willinson and Rebel are with them. The Carrows were last feeder, but Greyback was n't technically a Death Eater. Voldemort used him, but always thought he was scum because he 's a werewolf. The Carrows probably agreed. And Willinson, he 's got no connecter, which is why I 'm still confused as to why he broke out with them."

"For all we know they left the threshold undefendable and he followed,"privy said with a laugh.

Amanda groaned."Everyone 's got their own cell in mellow security."

"Oh, yeah, I suppose you 're right on,"John said.

"Two Death feeder, a war criminal, a werewolf, and Willinson,"Albus said."It 's so random. Why them ?"

"Sounds like the start of a joke,"John said."Two Death Eaters, a war criminal, a werewolf, and Willinson walk into a pub ...."

Matt groaned."Do n't even go there. I just really hope they catch him before the adjacent full phase of the moon lunar month. There was n't anything in the Prophet about him biting anyone this last full Sun Myung Moon, but I do n't think he 'd go two moonlight without biting. And there 's no way he 'd go on wolfsbane, even if he could get some."

"I wonder where the others are,"Rose mused."You think they 're just hiding out ?"

"They must be,"Albus said."There have n't been any sightings."

There was a knock on the door and then it opened. James River walked inside and sat down on the end of Albus 's bed.

"Longbottom just came to spill to us,"he said."We 'll be allowed to leave the common room for dinner, but not before that."

"Did they pick up him ?"matte asked anxiously.

"No,"James II said."But, Longbottom said the owner of Madam Puddifoot 's also saw him, so the Ravenclaw girl probably did see him. They 've scoured Hogsmeade and there 's no sign of him, though."

"Are they rescheduling the mates ?"Albus asked.

James nodded."Next Saturday. Good affair, too, because I do n't think that one would 've ever ended. Do n't tell Fred, but there 's no way I would 've seen the Snitch."

"One top to Greyback being on the terra firma, I guess,"Albus said.

"Lucky he did n't aggress that girl,"Matt said as Henry James left."He attacks the great unwashed even when he 's not transformed."

"He did that to my uncle Bill,"Albus said.

"Really ?"Matt asked.

Albus nodded."At the end of my dad 's sixth year, the dark Dumbledore was killed. He does n't transform, but he likes really rarified inwardness. Like hardly cooked at all meat."

"Eww !"Kaden exclaimed."That 's sodding. Wait, Matt, do you like really rare pith ?"

lustrelessness grinned."Yeah. I hardly ever get it, though. Mum refuses to let me eat it because she thinks it 'll establish me ill. And they do n't serve it here."

"My uncle eats it all the time,"Albus said."Aunt Fleur likes her steaks pretty rare, too. So does teddy for that matter."

"I like mine well done,"Kaden said.

"Now that 's what 's gross,"Matt replied."I should ask the business firm elves to make me rare steak."

"They probably would,"blush wine said."They make you pretty a great deal whatever you want."

"Let 's go tonight,"flatness said."We have n't been down there in ages."

Kaden groaned."So we 're going to possess to see you eating a patch of raw core ?"

"Not raw,"mat said."Slightly cooked, bit of blood dripping out."

"Oh, gross !"Kaden shouted."I 'm going back down to the common room."

Albus laughed and flatness grinned as Kaden ran out of the room. There was goose egg like a trip-up to the kitchens to get their minds off of Limnodromus griseus and the other escaped convicts.


A/N : Sorry for the late update ! I totally forgot it was Friday. Thanks for all the grand follow-up ! Please check out my predator fic, Between Here and Somewhere.


The first year who saw Greyback on the footing became an instant Hogwarts fame. By the side by side day her full level had spread throughout the student dead body like wildfire, and every single someone in the castle knew her name. She was Quinn Gregory, a diminutive young woman who looked like she belonged in the Weasley kin group with her long red hair and sprayer of freckles across her cheek. Quinn seemed to be enjoying her newfound fame and always had a crowd of citizenry around her, asking her to narrate the story.

Albus, himself, had heard the storey at least five times. Quinn had been running to the sales talk, late, because she 'd spent a half hour trying to convince one of her roommates to go to the match, but in the end her roomy had decided she did n't need to endure the storm. Quinn then spotted somebody lurking near the nursery and went to investigate, but instead of finding another student, she found Fenrir greyback. Apparently Greyback had said 'hi, piffling girl'to Quinn, who then took off running even faster for the Quidditch pitch. Greyback then escaped to Hogsmeade and who knows after that.

As the week progressed Quinn 's story grew until it ended with her disarming Limnodromus griseus after a 20 minute affaire d'honneur and running to the Quidditch pitch in order to admonish the eternal sleep of the scholarly person, rather than because she was scared. Albus was very happy that, for once, this had n't happened to him or one of his ally.

"guesswork what I heard today,"Kaden said as he entered the vulture 's Den Friday eventide, after dinner.

"What ?"Albus asked, looking up from the Marauder 's Map, which he 'd spent the last ten minutes studying. John and lusterlessness were in the elbow room as well, lustrelessness studying and john sorting deep brown toad cards. Rose was tutoring Elsie Willinson again and Amanda had gone with her.

"Quinn,"Kaden said as he sat down adjacent to Albus."She 's now saying that greyback stole her wand and she got away from him by kicking his kneecaps."

Albus burst out laughing."That 's cockeyed. She 's still got her wand."

"She claims Ollivander 's sent her an exact reproduction,"Kaden replied.

"But no two baton are the like,"John pointed out."Everyone knows that."

"She 's Muggle-born,"Kaden pointed out."She might not."

"But still,"Albus said."She 's taken it too far. No one 's going to believe her now and it 's all going to die down."

Albus laughed as he looked back at the Marauder 's Map. He 'd been checking it, both the Hogsmeade and Hogwarts sections, looking for greyback every so often since live Saturday. He 'd yet to find anything remotely interesting on it, to the lowest degree of all Greyback or one of the other escaped convicts.

"Scorpius is leaving the rook,"Albus said, noticing the dot labeled 'Scorpius Malfoy'was no longer in the Slytherin common room, but instead slowly making its way across the primer.

"What ?"Matt asked, closing his book."But it 's eight o'clock. And it 's snowing."

"It 's him all right,"Albus said."Come see."

Matt, trick, and Kaden all crowded around Albus and they watched Scorpius 's dot travel further and further from the castle. There were no other dots on the background, except Hagrid 's, and his was remaining stationary behind his hut. It did n't look that Malfoy was meeting anyone outside, nor did anyone go with him. It was odd, especially in light of his other odd demeanour.

"I wonder what he 's up to,"Albus mused.

"We should follow him,"John said."See what he 's up to."

"I agree,"Kaden said."No one goes outside at dark during a violent storm for no reason at all. He 's up to something."

"We 'd get caught,"Albus pointed out.

"And it 's immobilise,"mat added.

"We 'll drive your invisibility Cloak,"John the Divine said.

"I do n't think we all fit anymore,"Albus said, not taking his name off Malfoy 's dot.

"Then Kaden and I can go,"John replied.

"No way,"Albus said."It 's my cloak and I do n't want you having it when Filch catches you. He 'll impound it."

"Who says we 'll get caught ?"John asked.

Albus laughed and turned to face at Saint John the Apostle."Of grade you 'll get caught. And then my cloak will get taken away and I 'll never see it again and my dad will remove me."

"Your dad 's Harry potter,"King John said."He 's not going to off his own son."

"If he did Laurentis would love it."Kaden laughed."I can see the newspaper headline now. 'Harry Potter Murders Own Son, Clearly Unfit For responsibility. Weasley Still Supports Him .'”

"Oh shut it,"Albus muttered.

"time lag,"Matt said, staring at the map."He 's going to the Whomping Willow."

Albus looked back at the map and saw that mat was right. Malfoy 's dot was slowing down and circling the tree, giving it a wide berth."What 's he doing ?"

"You do n't think he 's figured it out, do you ?"matt asked.

"Well now we have to go after him,"John said, standing up.

mat nodded."Come on, Albus, let us take your cloak."

"Fine,"Albus said, knowing that the battle was lost. Malfoy was at the Whomping willow tree, which meant that this was now personal for mat, and therefore, for all of them."But I still do n't live if we 'll all fit."

Albus walked over to his bed and located the cloak in one of the drawers beneath it. He rarely kept it in his dormitory anymore, since he and his friends spent far more time in the marauder 's Den than they did in the commons room.

"Let 's try it,"Albus said as his friends walked over to him. They stood close and Albus threw the cloak over them.

"one-half my trunk is showing,"John said, turning to search at his still visible arm.

"And all our feet are showing,"matt pointed out.

"That 's because Albus and lav are hulk,"Kaden asked, glancing up at the five inches of blank that separated his head from the top of the cloak.

"Both of you are going to have to bend down,"Matt said.

"But what about the fact that half my body is showing ?"John asked, yanking on the cloak.

"Now I 'm not under it at all,"matte said, yanking it back.

"I wish we could do disillusion appealingness,"Albus muttered."Too bad we do n't learn those until one-seventh year."

"Rose could probably see them out,"John said."We should have her learn them."

"Well we do n't have meter for that now and we 're wasting time arguing. Malfoy could be in the tunnel by now,"matt said.

"There are wards,"Albus pointed out.

"Still ..."Matt muttered.

"fine,"John said."Albus and mat can go and Kaden and I will stay here."

"What ?"Kaden shouted."Why 'd you volunteer me to stay ?"

"Well, Albus is n't going to let anyone take the cloak without him going and lustrelessness has to go since Malfoy 's by the Whomping Willow,"John said."That leaves you and me. I do n't think more than two of us are going to fit."

"Let 's go, then,"Matt said, yanking the cloak off of John and Kaden and repositioning it over himself and Albus."See you in a bit."

Albus nearly had to run to go on up with matt and go on himself crouched down enough to stay conceal, and that was saying something since usually Albus was much faster than Matt. The two of them said nothing on their way down to the forepart door and were n't noticed by any of the student or professor they passed.

"Remember, we 've got to be back before curfew,"Albus said once they shut the figurehead door."We do n't want to be locked out like back in second year."

"This is total deja vu,"Matt added."Two years ago we caught Kaden messing with the Whomping willow. That 's when Kendrick added the wards."

"But unlike with Kaden, I do n't think we 'll meander up ally with Malfoy after,"Albus pointed out.

The grounds were very hush, the entirely sound being the crunching of their feet in the snow. Albus carefully vanished their footmark as they walked, while mat led them down the path to the Whomping willow tree. It was very cold and snowy, which reminded Albus even more of the time they got locked out of the castle after sneaking into the Shrieking shack.

"Is he even still there ?"mat asked quietly when they were halfway to the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree.

Albus paused and pulled the Marauder 's Map out of his pocket. Scorpius 's dot was still walking methodically in a round around the tree."Yeah, he 's there."

Matt nodded and they continued walking. Neither of them had lit their verge, so they slowed down in order to not be hit by the willow tree 's large branches. Finally they reached it and stood just outside its hitting range, waiting for Malfoy to follow back around.

The Slytherin boy was wrapped in a thick cloak and pacing with his head always turned toward the tree. He had his baton out and did n't seem to notice that he had been joined by Albus and Matt. Albus glanced at matt as Malfoy walked past them, unsure of whether to call up his aid to their presence. Since they were invisible, they could just stand there and check him.

"There 's got to be a way,"Malfoy muttered."Every Mary Augusta Arnold Ward has a weak point. They do n't all last forever."

Albus could now see that Malfoy was sending respective hexes and jinxes into the wards, but they were all deflecting away. As he rounded the tree once more, a hex bounced off the Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth and nearly hit Albus, who had to jump out of the way to ward off it. His leg slipped out from underneath the cloak in the process, but Malfoy did n't see it.

"It 's got to work on,"Malfoy said."There 's no other way in ...."

"Into where ?"Matt mouthed. Albus shrugged.

They waited for Malfoy to make another circle around the Tree and this fourth dimension one of the whammy reflected off the Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth and toward matt, who jumped to get out of the way, but tripped over a partially buried tree root instead. He fell over, yanking the cloak down with him, leaving both himself and Albus exposed. matt let out a watercourse of cuss and a cry of pain. Albus heard a sickening crunch as he fell and hoped it was the tree root and not lustrelessness 's leg.

"Who 's there ?"Malfoy shouted, aiming his baton at Albus and flatness. He lit it and his face visibly paled."What are you two doing here ?"

Albus lit his own scepter. Matt was still sitting in the snow."I could ask you the same matter, Malfoy,"Albus said.

Albus pointed his wand at Matt and reached down to aid him up. He was clutching his wrist and his font was as blanch as Malfoy 's, although for different reasons.

"I said, what are you two doing here ?"Malfoy repeated, not sounding very confident.

"following you,"Albus said simply, thinking honestness would be the best insurance here. After all, all three of them were breaking the rules. Not often point in denying it or making up exculpation.

"How did you know I was here ?"Malfoy asked. His wand arm was now trembling, although Albus did n't bonk if it was from the frigidity or fear.

"Saw you leave the castle,"Albus said."Figured we 'd see what you were up to."

"What do you want with the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree ?"lustrelessness demanded. His voice sounded pained.

Malfoy 's mouth turned up in a sly grin."Once again, you just confirmed my suspicions. This Tree 's how you get into the Shrieking Shack. I did a little more research, and turns out this thing was planted the Sami year the Shrieking Shack was built. The same year Remus lupine started going to Hogwarts. That shack 's all boarded up so I figured there must be some form of tunnel leading to it and what unspoilt way to obliterate a burrow than to put a murderous tree diagram above it ? problem is, I ca n't disable the wards. Bet you can, though."

"Why ?"lusterlessness asked. Albus heard him breathe in sharply and began to question if his wrist was broken."Why do you desire to get in there ?"

"Ca n't state you,"Malfoy said.

"fountainhead, I 'm not disabling the wards,"Matt said.

"I 'll reckon it out eventually,"Malfoy said.

Albus wanted to ask him about his behaviour at dueling practices so badly. They 'd had another practice the previous day and again, Malfoy had n't said two words to anyone. It was just strange. Bur Albus figured that even if he asked, Malfoy would n't reply.

"It 'd be dense, you know,"Matt said."Going into the shrieking Shack."

"wellspring I would n't go in on a wide-cut moon, idiot,"Malfoy said."Believe it or not this has nothing to do with you or your evil English. I could n't wish less that you 're a filthy werewolf. I have better things-"

Albus jabbed his scepter into Malfoy 's bureau, nearly knocking him over in the process. His heart was pounding and he could find passion rising up in his body."You. Take. That. Back,"he seethed.

"Albus, do n't,"flatness said.

Malfoy scowled."No. I wo n't, because it 's true. I do n't care. It was the secret that I liked and nothing more than. You do n't know the one-half of what 's going on or why I want that hutch. He only uses it one night out of twenty-eight. I want it the other twenty-seven. I do n't get why that 's such a huge deal."

"What 's going on over there ?"a loud voice boomed over the grounds."Eh, what 're yeh doing ?"

Albus quickly moved his verge and pointed it elsewhere. It was one thing to get caught on the primer after dark but another to be caught threatening another student. He pointed his scepter in the commission of the voice and saw Hagrid making his way toward them, his declamatory Newfoundland dog, Fetch, at his slope.

"Albus ?"Hagird asked as he drew nearer."Matt ? What 're yeh doing out here ? And Malfoy ?"

"Er, nil,"Albus muttered.

"Well, yer breaking the rules so I 'm going to have to take yeh to Longbottom,"Hagrid said and then turned to Malfoy."And you 'll have to see Slughorn."

"infirmary wing,"mat said."First."

Hagrid turned to matt and looked at his wrist."O'course of action,"he said."What did yeh do ?"

"Tripped over a root,"Matt said."Landed on a rock."

Hagrid nodded and clapped Matt on the back, a motion clearly meant to comfort him but instead nearly knocked him over again. After he recovered they set off for the castle, walking next to Hagrid. Malfoy followed at a myopic aloofness. Hagrid did n't ask them what they were doing by the Whomping Willow again, although Albus had a feeling he probably knew. After all, he knew why the Tree was there and the fact that flatness was a werewolf.

The castle was much vacuous when they returned than when they had left. Albus only saw a few prefects doing their round of drinks and realized that curfew must have passed. So much for not getting in trouble.

Hagrid walked them to the infirmary wing and left Albus and matt there while he then escorted Malfoy to Slughorn 's study. Malfoy had remained quiesce during the integral walkway, but lost the sneer he 'd worn when he insulted Matt.

"I thought you lot had grown out of this,"ma'am Pomfrey said as she examined lusterlessness 's wrist."This sneaking about in the dead of Nox, following people. At least you did n't get locked out this clock time.

"Yes, your wrist is definitely broken. But I can mend it quickly."

ma'am Pomfrey took her wand out of her gown and pointed it at Matt 's wrist. She muttered a spell and instantly, his articulatio radiocarpea was healed.

"Thanks,"Matt said, bending his wrist.

"You 're welcome,"the nurse replied. She hurried over to a storage locker and returned with a goblet of potion."Take this for the pain and you 'll be good as new. No need to detain the night. I know you stay here enough as it is. You 're to hold back here until professor Longbottom comes to gather up you."

mat nodded and downed the potion in one large gulp. Albus sat down next to him on the bed and they waited for Longbottom. Albus did n't think Hagrid had seen him with his sceptre pointed at Malfoy, so his punishment should n't be too bad.

"You do n't think he 'll make you miss Quidditch tomorrow, do you ?"Matt asked.

Albus had n't thought of that."I hope not. Fred would kill me."

The door to the ward opened and prof Longbottom walked inside. He looked tired and slightly annoyed. He sighed and shook his school principal when he saw Albus and Matt.

"You two again ?"he asked."Hagrid said you were on the grounds after curfew ?"

"Yes, sir,"Albus replied. He always felt weird calling professor Longbottom 'sir', but figured it could n't spite in this situation.

"Should I bother asking why ?"Longbottom replied.

Albus shook his head, knowing that telling Longbottom why would n't get them any fewer detentions, nor would it stop Malfoy from trying to cipher out how to get into the Shrieking Shack.

"I 'll make this easy, then,"Longbottom said."Ten points from Gryffindor, each. And you 'll both dish detainment tomorrow, immediately following the Quidditch mate. Lines, in my office. I 'll see you then."Longbottom turned to leave. He nodded to Madam Pomfrey as he walked to the door."Good night, Poppy."

"trade good night, Neville,"Madam Pomfrey said.

Albus and Matt said undecomposed night to the nursemaid and then left the ward, both automatically going back to the mutual room rather than the Marauder 's Den. If they were caught outside of Gryffindor pillar twice in one night they 'd get a a good deal forged punishment than twenty lost points and a hold. Albus thought they 'd incur off well-situated, to be honest. He wondered what Slughorn had set for Malfoy.

John, Kaden, pink wine, and Amanda were waiting for them when they got back. John and Kaden were smirking.

"Do n't say a word,"Albus muttered."I knew whoever followed him would get caught."

"Figured you did, seeing as you 've been gone for over an hr,"lav said."What 's your punishment ?"

"custody tomorrow after Quidditch and we each lost ten stop,"Albus said.

"You got off easy,"Kaden replied."If it had been me and Gospel According to John we would 've gotten three detentions."

"I think Longbottom took ruth on us because lusterlessness broke his radiocarpal joint while we were out there,"Albus said.

john laughed."Of row he did."

"Shut it,"Matt said."It really ache. I was dodging a curse that Malfoy sent to the Willow that reflected off the wards."

"Did you find anything useful out ?"Rose asked."Not that I approve of this."

Albus and mat explained what had happened, including the part where Malfoy insulted mat and Albus nearly hexed him.

"Very odd,"Rose mused."What can he possibly want the shanty for ? And what did he entail when he said he had other clobber going on ? What other clobber could he possibly have going on besides school day ?"

"Whatever he 's got going on with Willinson ?"lavatory suggested."Surely Felix knows what his cousin are up to and Malfoy 's always involved with that."

Albus shrugged."Maybe. But why would he postulate the shanty ?"

"Who knows,"John said.

"I bet it 's got something to do with that alphabetic character,"Amanda said."And why he 's acting so strangely lately."

"oral presentation of acting strangely, Elsie Willinson is still acting Wyrd,"rosiness said."I thought she would 've adjusted by now, but she has n't. She does n't seem to have any friends."

"Does her crony still pick her up from tutoring ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah,"blush wine replied."It 's very odd. I asked her if she wanted to flow out with me and Amanda until curfew, but she said she could n't. So I said maybe another time and she said probably not."

"That 's odd,"John Lackland said."Clearly they 're up to something."

"They 're always up to something,"Albus pointed out."I 'd love to do it what it is, though. I wonder if they 've been in contact lens with Quinton."

"They 'd be dolt to be,"Rose said."Kendrick did n't punish Felix for what happened to Kaden two yr ago, telling him if he did it again he 'd get expelled."

"I still say you 've got to cipher out what 's up with Elsie,"John said.

"I 'm trying,"rose insisted."It 's not as loose as you 'd think. She hardly talks at all."

"Just go along trying,"John said.

"team !"Fred suddenly shouted from across the common room."Off to bed, all of you ! We 've got a secondly prospect at this and let 's not ruin it by staying up all night."

Albus did n't reason. Turning in early on was a good thought and he was actually quite tired after his excursion to the Whomping Willow. He bade good night to his friends and went up to his quiet down, empty dormitory. It did n't take up him long to hang asleep and he dreamt of playing Quidditch with Malfoy while the two of them dodged the Whomping willow tree on brooms.


A/N : Thanks for all the limited review ! I am doing ingroup NaNoWriMo again this month ( probably not a good idea ... ), and I 'm writing this for it, so hopefully I 'll terminate it !



The weather for the replay was vastly unlike from the previous Saturday 's weather. The sky seemed to be all out of snow and the sun was shining. Although it was still bitterly cold, there was little wind. Albus hoped the match would be a long one since as soon as it was over, he had to swear out custody with Professor Longbottom.

Albus went down to the Great Hall by himself for breakfast. His ahead of time night had given way to him waking up far sooner than he normally did. It was nice being capable to linger over breakfast, though, and rivet on the forthcoming match rather than interact with his friends. As he ate, the Great Hall slowly filled. He had just finished the last of his eggs when the place owls arrived.

Albus observed the bird of Minerva and did n't accredit any of them. Clearly he was not receiving any position today, which was a honorable matter because he was fairly certain Longbottom had owled his parents about his custody. But then he noticed a very large owl holding a red envelope in its oral cavity ; it was a howler and the owl was heading toward the Slytherin table. Albus continued watching it and saw it set ashore right in front of Scorpius, who yanked the envelope off the owl 's leg and tripped over the workbench in his haste to leave the room. Albus actually sympathized with him ; it was awful opening a howler in public. From the sound of it, Malfoy did n't quite make it to a loo or hollow classroom. Muffled cheering could be heard coming from the entryway Hall.

Malfoy did n't rejoin to the Great G. Stanley Hall. Albus figured it must have been a particularly awful howler monkey and was wondering what it could possibly make said when his friends sat down succeeding to him.

"Malfoy got a howler,"John said as he started loading his home base with bacon.

"I know,"Albus said."Saw him get it."

"Well, we heard the tail end of it,"Saint John said.

"It was terrible,"Rose replied.

"What did it say ?"Albus asked."Who was it from ?"

"His dad, I 'm guessing,"Saint John said."It was a man 's voice. We crouched down on the stairs when we saw him. Basically his dad was yelling at him for getting in trouble for stupid affair when he should be studying and concentrating on his shoal work and keeping his straits down. Then he said something about how Malfoy knows that they, meaning his parents, have far more of import things on their minds than worrying about Malfoy getting in trouble in schooltime. And how they ca n't worry about him at shoal when they 're busy worrying about former things."

"That 's vague,"Albus said."He did n't say what the other thing were ?"

"Nope,"trick said."But Malfoy obviously knows what they are because he was shaking and he ran for the donjon after the howler blew up."

"I told you the missive he read at exercise was about something bad,"Amanda said.

"And now we know it 's got something to do with his family,"Albus said.

"Maybe they 're going to link up with Willinson and the Carrows and all them,"matte said."His dad was a Death Eater, was n't he ?"

"Sort of,"Albus said."His gramps was, but his dad sort of got caught up in it and he got off. So did his granddad, actually. No one really knows why, but my dad vouched for them at their hearing."

"Now that is eldritch,"matt said."Maybe his grandfather is planning on joining them."

Albus shrugged."Maybe, but it just does n't sound right. Listen, I 've got to get to the pitch. I 'll see you after."

"Yeah, for detention,"Matt muttered."Going to be a blast."

Albus 's compliments for a long equal came honest. Since the weather was cooperating, James put off catching the stoolie until Gryffindor was up by 200 points, instead focusing his efforts on faking diving to keep on Ravenclaw 's Seeker away from the snitch. It worked, and three and a half time of day later James caught the Snitch and won the match for Gryffindor. Albus was sorely frustrated that he 'd have to miss the resulting political party in the rough-cut elbow room, but figured that 's what Longbottom was going for when he scheduled custody for right after the match.

Matt was waiting for Albus in the Great mansion and the two of them grabbed a quick lunch before hurrying to Longbottom 's office. They spent the next two hours writing'I will not abstract out of the castle after dark'over and over again. By the time they were done Albus wanted to curl up and take a nap, since the Quidditch mates itself had exhausted him. He and lusterlessness decided to spend the good afternoon in the Marauder 's Den, just relaxing if not actually sleeping.

When they arrived they found King John and Kaden in the eye of plotting their new joke. Rose and Amanda were in the library, apparently avoiding John and Kaden and their prank.

"Are you two sure you do n't want to be involved with this ?"John asked."It 's going to be legendary."

"It wo n't be worth the detentions,"Albus said.

"Seriously,"lustrelessness agreed."If it 's legendary it 's going to have in mind a lot of detentions."

"mulct,"John said.

John and Kaden lowered their voices, but Albus distinctly heard the words 'Weasleys '', 'itching gunpowder ,''Slytherins ,'and 'alarm filaree .'At that decimal point, he really did n't want to sleep together. He and Matt decided to set about a secret plan of cheat and attempted to tune up out John and Kaden 's rustling.

"I was thinking the other night and realized if my dad loses his job when Laurentis is elected it 's going to be just like Commonwealth of Australia,"lustrelessness said as he captured one of Albus 's pawns.

"I had n't thought of that,"Albus said."Does that mean you 'd go again ?"

"I do n't know,"Matt said quietly."I really hope not. I guess I do n't think so because the genuine understanding we moved here was so I could go to school, not for Dad to get a new job."

"Then you probably wo n't,"Albus replied, taking one of matte 's bishops.

"But if he does lose it, it 's going to probably intend Laurentis disagrees with him on lycanthrope way out,"lustrelessness pointed out."That could be really bad."

"You never know,"Albus said."There 's other matter your dad batch with that they might disagree on."

"But my dad 's the most vocal on lycanthrope rightfulness. Everyone knows that,"lusterlessness said."If they 're going to disagree on something, that 's going to be it."

"I guess you 'll bear to look until the argumentation,"Albus said.

"I 'm thinking of going,"matte said quietly."It might be awful, but I want to know what she says firsthand, not from the Prophet."

"That makes horse sense,"Albus said."When is it ?"

"In three weeks,"Matt said."February 15th. That 's the alone affair ; it 's the day of the Hogsmeade trip."

"That happened last Hogsmeade weekend,"Albus said,"when rosebush went. Sucks that they do that."

Matt nodded."I think I 'll go anyway. I mean, it is the Valentine 's Hogsmeade slip. public speaking of that, is Henry James still going out with that Hufflepuff female child ? I forgot her name."

"Gabby Ellis,"Albus said."I 've no estimate, to be fair. I guess we 'll find out when the Hogsmeade head trip comes."

"Just as long as Fred does n't schedule Quidditch practice for that day again,"Matt pointed out.

Albus laughed."He wo n't. None of us minded too much since the conditions was so nice, but I think if he did it again the unhurt team would detest him."

"That would have an awkward mob dinner, considering over half the team are your cousin-german,"Matt said.

"home dinner with my family have become awkward by definition,"Albus said."Luckily the adjacent one wo n't be until far after the election."

"Only a petty over two month to go,"matt said."You can make it."

"I hope so,"Albus replied, as he moved his fairy in the mastermind line of lustrelessness 's king."Checkmate."
***


"Rufus Scrimgeour was the close Minister of Magic to be appointed by the Wizengamot,"Professor Embry said as he strolled around his schoolroom. It was the first week of February and the year had finally gotten to the point where they were beginning to discuss the endorse war."He was appointed quickly, after Cornelius Fudge resigned.

"Minister Fudge is commonly known as the least competent curate ever to support federal agency,"Embry continued."He refused to believe evidence that was laid out plainly in front of him, for reverence of being known as the Minister who held agency when Voldemort returned. Somehow, he thought that if he ignored what was powerful in front of him, it would just simply go away. This backfired, of course, because he is now known for being the least competent minister.

"Scrimgeour is seen in a slightly skilful light than Fudge, although he was curate when the Ministry fell to Voldemort in August of 1997 ...."

Albus knew all of this, of line. He 'd grown up listening to his parents laugh at the incompetency of Fudge and the mindlessness of Scrimgeour being considered a minister at all. Nevertheless, he listened to Embry and took detailed notes since the essays Embry set were often farsighted and difficult.

"The sentence of the second war was a clip of fear and chaos,"Embry said as he reached the front of the room again."No one knew what was going on or who to believe. Many people heartily believed Fudge and what he said, believing Albus Dumbledore to be a fraud or even doddery. When this world was shattered for them in June of of 1996, they did n't know what to do or who to turn to, or even what to believe. They 'd been fooled for a full year, believing what their Ministry and newsprint told them. Now that they knew they 'd been lied to for a twelvemonth, what were they to do ? They did n't trust anyone, let alone the Ministry. almost the great unwashed 's goals were to protect their syndicate and friends and that was it.

"It was the fear and Chaos that allowed Voldemort and his followers to read control of the Ministry. Without the financial backing of wizarding UK, the Ministry was weak and susceptible to a takeover. It was dewy-eyed for Voldemort to slew in and takeover in a affair of weeks."

"Excuse me, professor ?"Olivia damage said, raising her hand.

"Yes, Miss Price ?"Embry replied."You have a question ?"

"Yes, sir,"Olivia replied."I was just wondering, and you do n't have to suffice, but what were you doing during the second base war ?"

If Embry was surprised that Olivia asked him a question about his personal life, he did n't show it. Instead he gave a tenuous grinning and began to walk around the classroom again.

"I do n't heed answering that,"Embry said."Many of your parents were involved with the war effort, so of course you 're rum. When the Ministry fell I 'd been working there for about six years. I got a job as an undersecretary in the department of Magical Transportation when I was just out of Hogwarts and worked my way up the ranks.

"I 'd received a packaging shortly before rector Fudge resigned and worked to draft laws, but I quit after Scrimgeour got appointed because I saw that the Ministry was rickety and spoil and no longer wished to align myself with it. After Voldemort 's licking, I was approached by Kingsley Shacklebolt asking if I would like to be involved with rebuilding the Ministry, and I said yes."

Albus was imprint. Embry had n't mentioned what sort of job he did at the Ministry and Albus had had no estimation he had been so take with its rebuilding after the war.

"So you can see why I believe it is so significant to cultivate all of you about the history of the Ministry and how it is organized now,"Embry finished."smell like we 're out of time for today so please write an eight inch essay on Rufus Scrimgeour 's term as Minister for prep, due next Tuesday."

Albus packed up his bag and headed back up to Gryffindor tower with his booster. When they arrived, there was a crowd around the placard panel, which was foreign. The Hogsmeade weekend date had already been announced and rarely did other posting garner such a crowd around the placard panel.

Albus shrugged at his friends and they squeezed through the crowd until they could read it. It was a great poster, covering the majority of the board, imposing an early curfew Billy Sunday nighttime. Everyone, first through seventh yr, were to be back inside the castling by five in the eve, no exception. Below that it warned that Filch was going to operate the front man door at exactly five and that everyone was to describe to their common elbow room at five-thirty.

"That 's weird,"Albus said as he and his friends retreated."I do n't think they 've ever imposed a curfew so early before, and for everyone ?"

"It 's because Johnny Reb has n't been caught,"Matt said quietly."Billy Sunday 's the to the full moon."

"They must reckon he 's going to amount back,"Albus replied.

"Scary,"John the Divine added."Do you really think he will ?"

"I do n't cognize,"Matt said."But I 'd bet my parents'whole Gringotts hurdle that he 's going to sting someone Sunday night."

"time lag,"rosebush said."You do n't usually go to the screeching Shack until six or seven."

"They 're probably doing it early just to be safe,"Matt said."In case some people do n't follow it or something. It says on there that the prefects are going to do a head count. That 's why we all have to add up back to the plebeian room at five-thirty."

Rose nodded."Then you 'll have to leave later, after the doorway are locked."

"Either that or Madam Pomfrey will suffer me go ahead of time,"flatness replied."I really hope not, though. I hate sitting out in the Shrieking Shack."

"I hope not, too,"Albus said quietly.

Albus and his friends were probably the only students who knew the intellect why a curfew had been imposed on William Ashley Sunday. Even the prefects seemed clueless, since Albus overheard a few of them trying to figure it out. More than a few students were wild about it, although Albus had no idea why since it was n't common for students to have a stroll on the soil on a Sunday night in February. He supposed they liked the choice, though.

As Sunday drew secretive Matt became quieter and even more closed off than he normally was. In fact, it reminded Albus a lot of the way he was in start yr, before rosiness figured out why he disappeared once a month. Both Albus and rose wine tried to get him to spread up about it, but he shrugged them off and insisted he was OK. whoremonger and Kaden did n't seem to notice any difference in Matt, and Amanda was n't one to ask about it when he closed himself off.

Sabbatum 's Dueling tournament proved uneventful. Albus spent the intact few 60 minutes worrying about mat because he had elected to skip the tournament in monastic order to sleep, which was odd since he 'd normally at least try to take part. At least Malfoy made Albus 's life easy by remaining still throughout the tournament and not blaming Albus when the squad came in third lieu. Albus himself won both of his duels, as did Malfoy.

On Sunday Albus and his friends spent the day in the predator 's Den, working on preparation and playing secret plan. lustrelessness slept for a great deal of the day and he still was n't saying anything. While Albus was worried, he was fairly sure the reason matt was so quiet was Greyback. When a fourth to five rolled around, they had to bring back to Gryffindor to test they were in the castle. flatness was still deceased, so Albus told everyone else go to on ahead and that they 'd follow.

"lusterlessness,"Albus whispered as he shook his supporter awake."We 've got to go back to the common room."

"This is poor fish,"Matt muttered."They 're counting everyone to urinate sure no one gets attacked by a loup-garou when they 've got one living in the castle."

"Is that why you 've been so quiet this week ?"Albus asked as Matt got up. He did n't reply."You and Reb are n't the same."

"I know,"Matt said as they left the elbow room. The corridor was empty, so he continued to sing."It 's just the fact that we 're both werewolves. That 's the like. What if they start doing this curfew matter every broad moon, all because of me ?"

"They wo n't,"Albus said."You 're not unsafe because you 're in the shrieking Shack. It 's all sealed up."

"I guess, but it 's still possible."

"You and Greyback are different because he wants to prick people. He purposely transforms near multitude, not on Wolfsbane, so he can infect people. You hide yourself away to protect everyone. That 's a huge difference."

"But what if he does come to Hogsmeade,"lustrelessness continued."He 'll hear me howling and know there 's a wolfman in the Shrieking Shack and he 'll try to get in."

"But he wo n't be able-bodied to,"Albus pointed out.

"And then if he does prick someone, and let 's face it, he will,"mat said."It 's going to look bad for all werewolves. All it 'll take up is a few blast and hoi polloi will start believing we should receive our rightfulness taken away. That 's what happened in Australia."

"You 're getting ahead of yourself,"Albus said as they reached the plebeian room."Right now you do n't know that any of that 's going to happen. Wandering banshee."

"You 're nearly late,"the Fat Lady said as she swung her portrait open.

Albus and matt climbed inside and found the coarse elbow room the most crowded they 'd ever seen it. Prefects were milling about attempting to get everyone to quiet down, but everyone was still trying to figure out why such an former curfew had been set. The room was so crowd that Albus and Matt could n't find the relaxation of their champion and since being in a herd elbow room was not the trump idea for Matt right before the full-of-the-moon moon, they quit searching and instead sat down near the student residence threshold.

"Everyone, quiet, please !"Heather announced in a magically overstate voice. The elbow room finally quieted down."I know you 're all upset about the curfew but they have n't even told us prefects why it 's been imposed. It 's not that big a heap since it 's February, nighttime, and freezing alfresco. None of you would be exterior anyway. Now just remain quiesce while we take roll so we can all get downstairs for dinner party. After we 're done you 'll be allowed to stray the castle until your formula curfew."

broom began calling out name in alphabetic parliamentary law by class. It took her XV or so minute of arc to get to the fourth twelvemonth and after that Albus tuned her out. 15 minutes after that she finished and all the Gryffindors had been accounted for. The vulgar way emptied out quickly, since everyone wanted to get to the Great Hall for dinner. lusterlessness had fallen asleep and after Albus prodded him wake, he went up to the residence hall to sleep until he had to go to the infirmary wing.

When Albus and his acquaintance returned from dinner matt had already left for the hospital annexe. They decided to just stick around the green room since it was fairly empty and spent the evening working on their essays for prof Embry.

"Any opportunity you lot make love why we 're stuck inside ?"James asked as he snagged the end chair at Albus 's table."Cedric, Ben, and I are asking everyone."

Albus exchanged a glance with rosebush. He supposed it could n't pain to narrate James the intellect why, just so long as he did n't tell him why they knew. Of course of study, as soon as he told James it would spread around the castle like dragon pox at a wizarding nursery school, but again, that would n't really hurt anything.

"We 've got a intuition,"Albus said."Remember how Quinn Gregory saw Johnny Reb on the grounds during the Quidditch match ?"

"Yeah,"St. James said.

"Well, tonight 's a wide-cut Moon,"Albus said."Put it together."

James was silent for a consequence and then his eyes grew big."You think Kendrick thinks he 's going to come here tonight ?"

"That 's our guess,"Albus said and his friends nodded.

"Makes common sense,"James River said."Can you think what sort of trouble Kendrick would be in if someone got bitten by a wolfman on the dry land ?"

Albus did n't need to believe about it. He doubted matte wanted a familiar in the Shrieking shack.

"Scary,"Jesse James said,"thinking about Greyback transformed while wandering around the grounds. I wonder why they did n't just tell us. No one would be wild about it if they 'd told us the reason."

"Probably did n't want anyone to panic,"Albus said.

"Guess so,"James agreed."But still, everyone 's going to know now."He grinned and then got up to go find Ben and Cedric. The fact that the curfew was due to Greyback would be commons knowledge in the castle within ten transactions, Albus guessed.

Albus managed to finish his essay and decided to call it a dark shortly after. He did n't experience like talking, not with the opening that Greyback was either running around the Hogwarts grounds or setting himself on some unsuspecting Greenwich Village, wanting to infect small children with lycanthropy. It was awesome to cogitate about. Albus laid awake for 60 minutes, trying not to think about it, but try as he might, he just could not push the thought from his mind.


It was a rare affair that Albus witnessed the sun rise. Being fourteen-years-old, Albus preferred to sleep until the very tardily dayspring or too soon afternoon, but this particular morning he was up before the sun. He had n't slept much that Nox due to his worries about Fenrir Greyback and matt, and decided that it was pointless to try and sleep when he 'd just have to be up in an hr anyway.

Albus sat at the window and watched as the sun slowly rose over the visible horizon. The primer looked peaceful, and not at all like the home where a werewolf could 've been roaming just a few hours before. The moon had set and both Matt and Johnny would be back in their human forms by now. Whatever had happened was over now and there was zippo anyone could do to change it. Albus wondered just how long it would exact for the Prophet to put out some form of article on any tone-beginning greyback might 've been the cause of.

Bilius and Ethan awoke before John did and busied themselves with talk of the town of the Balycastle and Kenmare mate that had taken place Saturday, completely carefree about Greyback. Albus was n't surprised since neither of them had any form of personal connection with the scat werewolf. But they at least knew that the former night had been a full lunation, since James had spread that information around the castle.

John the Divine finally rose shortly after Bilius and Ethan left for breakfast. Albus was relieved since they could now speak freely.

"What meter is it ?"John asked as soon as he sat up."Have we got clip to visit matt before Herbology ?"

"Just after eight, so not really,"Albus said."And there 's no full point in visiting him now as he 's probably unconscious or sleeping. The lunar month just set two hours ago."

"Yeah, but he might know something,"John said as he closed the wall hanging on his bed while he dressed."He might 've heard Johnny Reb last night."

"He never remembers anything about full moons,"Albus pointed out.

"It 's still worth a shooter,"toilet replied.

Albus thought it would be kind of pointless, but they did n't hold time before Herbology anyway. After John finished, the two hurried out of the dorm room and down to the Great residence for a immediate breakfast before social class. pink wine, Amanda, and Kaden were already there.

"Anything in the oracle ?"Albus asked as he grabbed a stack of toast.

Rose shook her school principal and swallowed her bacon before answering."No. Absolutely zip, but that does n't mean much. It could just be too soon for enough item to take emerged."

"well, we 've got a disembarrass period this good afternoon, so we can go ask lusterlessness,"John said.

"I told you that he 's not going to recognise anything,"Albus reminded him.

St. John shrugged."You never know."

The rest of the student body seemed to have already forgotten about the early curfew and the full moon. Albus did n't get word anyone discussing it on his way to Herbology or at lunch later that day. Since there had n't been anything in the composition about an onslaught, it was old news show for the Hogwarts students. Everyone that is, except for Albus, John Lackland, Rose, and Amanda.

Albus, Gospel According to John, and Amanda were still discussing it on their way to tutelage of Magical animal that good afternoon. When they arrived they found Hagrid surrounded by cages filled with lowly, disastrous, fluffy creatures.

"'ello !"Hagrid shouted."I 've got nifflers for yeh today. Can anyone separate me what makes nifflers unique ?"

Albus raised his hand.

"Albus,"Hagrid said.

Albus grinned."Nifflers find gem. They like shiny things."

"Tha 's right,"Hagrid said."So if you 've got watches or jewelry on, admit it off. I 've buried a load of leprechaun gold and your job for today will be to use the nifflers to find it. Everyone pair off and then make out get a niffler. Whichever pair finds the most aureate gets a pack of burnt umber Frogs."

There was a flurry as everyone hurried to take off their jewelry and find a niffler that looked like it would be a particularly treasure hunting watch. Albus took off his picket, shoved it into his scoop, and followed John Lackland and Amanda over to the nifflers. With Matt in the hospital wing, Albus was without a partner and decided to just join John and Amanda.

King John grabbed the niffler with the longest neb and held the end of the leading while they followed it around the dry land. Every so often the niffler would halt and dig through the snow, revealing a small pile of coins. Albus collected them and shoved them into a bag Hagrid had provided.

The entire procedure was rather entertaining. Albus enjoyed watching not only his niffler, but the quietus of the class 's nifflers as well. They were adorable, comic puppet. At one point, Janie Creevey and Karina Jordan-Bell 's niffler managed to sniff out a set of exfoliation in Bilius 's bag resulting in all three of them playing tug-of-war with the niffler.

"Why 's he got his scale leaf in there anyway ?"John asked as they watched."We have n't got potions today."

Albus shrugged."No idea."

"Albus, John, look !"Amanda shouted, pointing toward the castle.

Albus turned around and saw two figures walking toward Hagrid 's hut. It took a few second base, but he soon realized that he knew both of them. One Albus recognized as a new Auror from his dad 's section. His figure was John Henry Newman and he 'd been one of the Aurors to facilitate when Kaden was kidnapped two class ago. The second man was none other than Matt 's dad.

"What 's flatness 's dad doing here ?"John asked.

"Yeah, and who 's that other bloke ?"Amanda asked.

"He 's an Auror,"Albus said."But why are they here ?"

The two sorcerer walked past Albus, John, and Amanda without making any sort of eye contact, acting as if they 'd never seen them before. By now, the rest of the class was looking at them strangely. lusterlessness 's dad and Newman kept walking until they reached Hagrid, and they began speaking with him in low voices.

"C'mon,"Albus said as he began walking toward Hagrid.

Saint John the Apostle tugged the niffler 's lead and he and Amanda followed Albus. Albus stopped once they were within earshot, hiding behind a bush. John and Amanda crouched down on either side of him.

"I s'ppose I did hear some funny noises las'night,"Hagrid said."more'n usual, that is. Always amusing noises from the timberland. A bit more howling than normal las'night, coming from Hogsmeade. Could 've been a werewolf, but I don'know for sure."

"And did you see anything roaming the grounds ?"Matt 's dad asked. His voice sounded serious.

"No,"Hagrid said."Wasn'external late. What 's this about ? Rebel ?"

Matt 's dad and Paul Newman glanced at each other."Yes,"Matt 's dad said."We have cause to believe Greyback was in the area last night and we 're looking for anyone who might 've seen something."

Hagrid shuddered."Wish I could help yeh. But yeh eff, that howling from Hogsmeade could 've just been-"

"Yes, I know,"Mr. Eckerton cut him off, with a nimble glimpse at Newman."We 've had reports of more reprehensible, louder howling. Howling that seems to change location."

"Oh !"Hagrid exclaimed."Yeah, well, again, wish I could serve. I 'll pay a bit Sir Thomas More care next full moon."

"We 'd appreciate it,"Mr. Eckerton said."Thanks for your time."

matt 's dad and Newman turned and left, without a 2d glance at Hagrid or the class. The rest of the socio-economic class had retentive since returned to their nifflers and all had bags of gold far larger than Albus, Gospel According to John, and Amanda 's. But Albus no longer cared about winning the Chocolate toad. It seemed that something did encounter last night, but cypher knew exactly what.

At the end of the class, Albus, John, and Amanda came in dead final stage for amount of coins collected. Hagrid seemed frustrated, but said that their niffler must 've just been tired. After returning it to its John Milton Cage Jr., the three hurried back to the castle, dying to stow their travelling bag and go sojourn Matt.

"If Greyback is n't on wolf's bane should n't he be wanton to find after the full-of-the-moon moon ?"St. John asked as they walked to the hospital wing."Would n't he be injured ?"

"Not necessarily,"Albus said quietly."Matt only bites and attacks himself because he has nix else to attack. If Limnodromus griseus 's out roaming the countryside, he can lash out animals and people."

"But what about the actual shift ?"John replied."Even loup-garou on Wolfsbane are achy the next day because of that, right ?"

"I think so, yeah, but I bet if you 're being chased by Aurors that 's the finale thing on your psyche,"Albus pointed out."I 'm not certainly. Matt would probably know."

Matt was the only patient in the hospital annexe and Madam Pomfrey was officious in her discipline, so Albus and his friends were free to hash out whatever they pleased. Albus was happy to see that Matt was awake, although he did depend slightly unsettled.

"Was there anything in the vaticinator ?"Matt asked as soon as Albus, John, and Amanda had taken rear on his bed."And I 'm fine, so do n't vex asking."

"Er, no,"Albus said."Why ?"

"Last night was weird,"Matt said.

"Told you he 'd know something,"John said to Albus.

"But I do n't,"matt replied."It was just Wyrd. I do n't eff how else to distinguish it."

"What happened ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't know,"matt said quietly as he pulled his men out from under the blankets. They were completely bandaged."Look. My hands are the solely component of me that 's injured. I mean, I ache all over from the transformations, but I did n't sting myself at all final stage night."

Albus looked at the patch."But your hired man. You did n't bite them ? Then why are they bandaged ?"

"Splinters,"matte said."brothel keeper Pomfrey thinks I spent the nighttime scratching at the door and trying to get out. I 've never done that before. I never remember anything from when I 'm the wolf, but I do sometimes remember feelings. Like if the wolf was really angry or something. Last dark it was do-or-die, although I have no mind what for. I guess to get outside, if Madam Pomfrey is right."

"And your wolfy self has n't done that before ?"Albus asked.

"No,"Matt shook his nous."I 've been transforming in the Shrieking shanty for three and a half age and the Friedrich August Wolf has never done that before."

"I 'll tell you something weirder,"can said."Your dad was here earlier."

"What ?"Matt exclaimed."When ?"

"Just now,"John said."During forethought of Magical Creatures, he and some Auror came to talk to Hagrid. We listened in-"

"Of trend,"Matt cut in.

"Your dad and the Auror, they were asking Hagrid if he 'd seen or heard anything eldritch last nighttime. Hagrid said he did n't see anything, but he thought he heard more noise than common from Hogsmeade. Then he said that it may take in just been you, but your dad cut him off, probably because of the Auror. Then your dad said that there had been reports of more vicious howling than usual."

"They definitely think that Greyback was in Hogsmeade lastly nighttime,"Albus said.

"What would 've happened if you got out ?"Amanda asked.

"Out of the Shack ?"Matt asked."zilch soundly. But now he knows that I was there. He 'll prevent coming back until he 's captured. I wo n't actually be able to break loose from the hutch. The Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth are too good."

The door to the Ward flew open and Matt 's dad came striding inside, still looking as serious as he had earlier. After a quick glimpse around the room, he strode over to lustrelessness 's bed.

"Dad,"matte said.

"You do n't seem surprise to see me,"Mr. Eckerton replied as he gave his son a hug."How are you feeling ?"

"I 'm all rightfield,"Matt said with a shrug."Albus, St. John, and Amanda saw you talking to Hagrid. wellspring, they heard you, too. Where 's the Auror ?"

Mr. Eckerton let out a short laugh and then turned to Albus."I saw you in the bushes. Next time you 're trying to hide, do n't cover with a niffler. They 're notorious giveaways. Yours was trying to sniff out Cardinal Newman 's pocket watch."

"I missed nifflers ?"Matt asked, clearly disappointed.

"Yeah,"Albus said."I bet Hagrid would let you see one after you 're beneficial, though."

"I need to speak with you about end night, lustrelessness,"Mr. Eckerton said quietly."In private, perhaps ?"

Matt shook his head."I already told them about terminal night, so they might as well stay."

"All right,"Mr. Eckerton said."I need you to try and remember if you heard or saw anything foreign finish night. I know you never remember anything, but try."

Matt held up his bandaged hands."Madam Pomfrey thinks I tried to get out of the hovel last dark. That never happens. Whatever was outside kept the wolf occupied all Nox. I did n't attack myself."

Mr. Eckerton 's eyes grew large and Albus noticed that the life-threatening look had dissipated. It was replaced with a look Albus had seen quite often on his own father. It was a father 's shock and concern.

matte explained the rest, including the part about the wolf touch sensation desperate. Mr. Eckerton seemed to speculate this for a few min before sighing and shaking his head.

"What 's going on, Dad ?"Matt asked.

Mr. Eckerton sighed once more."I suppose it could n't hurt to distinguish you. It 'll be in the Prophet tomorrow anyway. Two children were attacked in Little Shingleton lastly night. It 's a Ithiel Town about five international mile away, on the other English of that mount next to Hogsmeade. We 've been trying to figure out whether it was Reb or not, since he left immediately after biting them."

"Were they Muggles ?"Matt asked.

"No,"Mr. Eckerton said."Which makes me conceive that this was a carefully planned attack. fiddling Shingleton is a Muggle village, with these two baby and their parents being the sole beldame and wizards in the orbit. It 's too coincidental. And why attack both youngster ? to the highest degree werewolf take off immediately after biting person, their instinct telling them to get as far away as possible, as quickly as possible."

"And did they ... survive ?"matt replied.

"They 're both in stable stipulation at St. Mungo 's. Once their morsel heal, they 'll be fine, carry through for the fact that they now have lycanthropy. The bites were fair and low, not normal werewolf sharpness. These bites were inflicted just to infect. Another planetary house toward Greyback."

"But what about Hogsmeade ?"Albus asked.

"Five miles is not an impossible journey for a werewolf in a nighttime,"Mr. Eckerton explained."Most likely grayback heard matt 's howl close night and followed the phone. Once there, he probably spent the rest of the night attempting to get inside the scream Shack, which is impossible."

"So you really think it was him ?"matte asked.

"I do, and Auror John Henry Newman agrees with me. I left him in Kendrick 's study, after telling him I needed to visit you since we were already here. But what you 've told me just solidifies it."

"But ca n't you just go get him ?"John asked."He ca n't be that far. No offensive, flatness, but if you were extraneous you would n't get very far."

"None taken."

"The thing that makes lycnathropy so hard to analyse, and also most likely the reason why wolfbane does n't ferment for all wolfman, is that each person 's lycanthropy is vastly different from others. Its personal effects depend a lot upon a person 's view toward their own lycanthropy. Fenrir Calidris canutus has spent his life embracing his lycnathropy and support for that one night a month where his true nature emerges. He embraces his wolf side so practically that he even attacks hoi polloi when the moon is not full.

"You, flatness, on the former hand, place almost with your human incline. As you should, considering you 're only a wolf one Nox out of twenty-eight. Therefore, you resist the translation. You fight it with your every vulcanized fiber, every month. Greyback embraces it, and probably shifts a lot prosperous than you do. His transformations most in all likelihood do not cause him the same pain."

"I guess that makes sense,"flatness said.

"But still,"privy said."They should be combing the forest for him."

Mr. Eckerton chuckled."They are. cartel me. They have the stallion Werewolf Control whole searching for him, along with six Aurors, and a smattering of Junior and trainee Aurors. They do n't normally dispatch Aurors to capture rapscallion lycanthrope, as that 's usually the Werewolf control Unit 's job. And it 's not usually my job to investigate werewolf onrush. But this is a highschool profile case, so they want many people on it, including masses in charge. We 'll get him."

Albus wondered if Teddy was on the case. He was a Jr Auror now. Knowing Teddy, he 'd want to be on the case since Limnodromus griseus had turned his dad into a werewolf.

"I 've got to get back to the Ministry and replete out a report,"Mr. Eckerton said as he stood up from his chair."If you think of anything else, mat, ask to use Professor Longbottom 's Floo. bird of Minerva are easily intercepted."

Matt said adios to his dad and soon the male child and Amanda were alone in the infirmary wing once more. Albus did n't know what to say. Fenrir greyback, it seemed, was up to his old magic and somehow flatness had gotten involved.
***


Fenrir Greyback 's attack on the two children took the all nominal head page of the seer the fall out morning. The total Great Hall was talking about it, professors, student, and ghosts. copy of the newspaper publisher were being passed faster than phonograph record of bacon. Albus managed to snag a copy from his cousin Ben.

FENRIR GREYBACK ATTACKS IN LITTLE SHINGLETON

Fenrir Greyback, escaped inmate and werewolf,
was sighted end night in Little Shingleton,
Scotland. Little Shingleton is nearly an
entirely Muggle Village, lay aside for one
wizarding class. The crime syndicate, whose
names have not been released due to the
Underage werewolf Protection Law,
suffered an extreme catastrophe hold up night,
when Fenrir Calidris canutus attacked both of
their kid. Both kid are
reportedly in horse barn condition at St.
Mungo 's.

An investigation, organized by both the
Auror Department and the Department for
the regularisation and Control of Magical
wight, headed by header of that section,
Walter Eckerton, concluded deep yesterday.
'We 've interviewed several eyewitnesses
who saw or take heed a wolfman in Hogsmeade
during the full moonshine. Hogsmeade is only
about five land mile from Little Shingleton .'
researcher said that legion other
cue led them to believe that the attack
was by Fenrir Johnny, despite not having
actually seen him in Little Shingleton.
'We are not prepare to disclose all particular
of the investigation. But we are confident
that this was an attack by grayback. A team
of Aurors and wolfman ascendence Unit employees
are working around the clock to enamor
greyback .'

The clause was followed by a retread of Greyback and the offense that had landed him in Azkaban in the first stead, along with a nasty photo of him. Even in his human flesh he looked rather wolf-like, which was such a drastic line compared to flatness, who did n't resemble a savage at all, save for his oculus. Albus glanced up from the article and his eyes fell on lustrelessness 's. They had a xanthous shade to them, with maculation of gold amidst their natural blueish colouring. They were indeed the only wolf-like trait he possessed when the moonshine was n't full.

"This is why multitude want stricter loup-garou ascendance legal philosophy,"Matt said quietly.

"even those could n't have stopped this,"Albus pointed out.

"the great unwashed wo n't cerebrate about that. All they 'll mean about is how their kid are n't safe, and they 're rightfulness. It 's just icky timing. Laurentis is going to use this to her advantage."

Albus wanted to secure Matt that everything would be all compensate, that Laurentis would n't blow everything out of proportion, but he could n't. He knew that Matt was in good order, that Laurentis would once again use a terrible tragedy to draw more reinforcement from the wizarding world. If his uncle Percy was going to stand a chance against her, he was going to receive to drastically change his campaign strategy.


A/N : So I just realized that I uploaded the legal injury chapter final stage Friday. This is the real chapter 25 and the one I uploaded last Friday is chapter 26. Sorry about that !


The thing about werewolf flak was that they were only able to happen once a month. There was absolutely no hazard of a werewolf attack during the balance of the month, so it was promiscuous for the Hogwarts students to soon block about Fenrir Greyback, or at to the lowest degree energy him into the furthest nook of their minds. After the initial article about Johnny 's approach on the two Thomas Young children, the composition returned to its usual election coverage, although both candidates were being very quiet about the attempt. Neither Hotspur nor Laurentis made a statement, which did n't storm Albus. The debate on regulating of magical puppet was scheduled for Saturday, so both candidates would make statements then. There had been a few column in the report written by people pushing for stricter werewolf law, but that had been it.

Sabbatum was also the day of the following Hogsmeade trip, and this gave the Hogwarts students a much needed distraction from the exterior globe. Word spread amongst Albus 's cousins that Saint James was once again taking Gabby Ellis to Hogsmeade, and quite a few of his early cousins had dates as well. Albus himself did not, and was planning on spending the day with bathroom, Kaden, Rose, and Amanda. flatness had arranged to attend the debate with his dad, and would lack the slip.

"Are you sure you want to go to this debate ?"Albus asked Matt as they played cheat in the piranha 's Den.

"What ?"Matt asked, turning to Albus. He 'd been staring at the bulwark under the pretense of taking his turn for the past five minutes.

"You were zoning out,"Albus said."I asked if you 're sure enough you want to go to that debate Saturday."

lustrelessness had seemed distracted all workweek and whether it was from Rebel being so near during his transformation or the upcoming argumentation, Albus did n't recognize.

"Yeah, I 'm sure,"Matt said."I 'd rather hear it straight from her than understand it in the Prophet."

"What about your dad ?"Albus asked."Is he going to speak out against her if she wants stern laws ?"

Matt shrugged."I do n't know. That did n't wreak too well in Australia."

The door to the Den volley give and John and Kaden came barging in, both wearing superposable grins. It was slightly uncanny, how alike they looked.

"We 've finished,"bathroom announced.

"Finished what ?"Albus asked. He was slightly worried. It was never a secure mark when John and Kaden were that happy about something.

"Our put-on,"Kaden answered."We 've finished planning. We 're not quite sure when to do it, though."

"Yeah, any suggestions ?"lav asked."Or are you two still being all prefecty on us ?"

Albus burst out laughing and turned to Matt, who smirked."Prefecty ?"Albus repeated.

"Yeah,"whoremaster said."Everyone knows it 'll be one of you who makes prefect next year. And you 're getting started early by not liking our pranks."

"We just do n't need detention again,"Matt explained."Honestly, I could n't deal to a lesser extent if you prank the Slytherins. Malfoy 's a git. Prank him all you want."

"Are you sure you do n't want to roll in the hay what it 's going to be ?"John asked.

"No,"Albus said.

"Not a hazard,"Matt said.

john shrugged."All right. But when should we do it ?"

"Let 's just wait and see when the prison term smell right,"Kaden suggested."It 's not, er ... time-sensitive ...."

John the Divine and Kaden burst out laughing."Sure,"John said."Not time-sensitive at all."

Albus and mat exchanged a coup d'oeil.

"We could distinguish you why that was so suspect,"John said.

"Or you could just await and see like the rest of the castling,"Kaden added.

"We 'll await,"Albus said. He was singular about it, but not curious enough to possibly scent up with another hebdomad 's detention.

Whatever the clowning was, John and Kaden did n't implement it before the next day. Saturday brought blueness skies and bitterly dusty temperatures and Albus put on two Weasley jumpers in grooming for walking around Hogsmeade.

Matt left early for the debate, Flooing from Professor Longbottom 's subject area. Albus and King John slept late and met Kaden, pink wine, and Amanda in the Great Hall for a quick lunch before setting off for Hogsmeade.

The February Hogsmeade trip was always an interesting one. The village became filled with young mates either snogging passionately in front line of the workshop or staring awkwardly at each other across a mesa in the Three broom handle or dame Puddifoot 's. Having never been on a day of the month before in his biography, Albus found it really funny to ascertain. trick and Kaden found it amusing as well, but pink wine and Amanda seemed to stare wistfully at the distich and did n't find them at all funny.

"Where to first ?"Albus asked.

"Not Madam Puddifoot 's,"John the Divine said immediately, grimacing as a few love-struck pair headed toward the station.

"I plan on never setting foot in there,"Kaden said."I do n't wish how many girls ask me to go there with them."

John laughed."You 'd have to get a girl to like you first."

"Shut up,"Kaden said."Let 's just go get some Butterbeer."

The rest of the group agreed and they were soon crowded around one of the solely vacuous tables in the Three Broomsticks. Albus was hoping to catch a glance of Henry James because despite the fact that James had been out with Gabby Ellis before, Albus could n't get over the fact that his pal was going out on dates. It was just weird.

After finishing their Butterbeer, the group went to Honeyduke 's and Weasleys'in society to caudex up on Skiving Snackboxes and Chocolate salientian. By then it was nearly dinner party prison term and they decided to call it a day. The current of air was picking up and none of them fancied being caught in a storm.

"Albus !"John shouted just as they were setting off on the course back to the castle.

"What ?"Albus asked, turning to see what John was pointing at.

"James and Gabby Ellis,"whoremonger said.

Albus squinted and just made out his brother, leaning against the exterior of Honeyduke 's, his mouthpiece attached to Gabby Ellis 's. They were so last that they almost looked like one person.

"Oh my God,"Albus said quietly.

"That is disgusting,"pink wine added."I could 've gone my entire life without seeing someone snog James."

John Lackland and Kaden were both laughing."look like they 're enjoying it,"John said.

"Oh 144 !"Albus exclaimed as he turned back to the path."Let 's go."

"I think it 's safe to say they 're together,"Amanda said as they walked back.

"What she could possibly see in King James ..."rose muttered.

"fountainhead, he does play Quidditch,"Amanda pointed out.

"So do over half my cousins,"blush wine said."So does Albus."

"Can we deepen the topic ?"Albus asked."Please. C'mon, let 's look sharp up. I bet Matt 's spinal column from the debate."

That seemed to get his supporter'minds off of James 's romantic spirit. Albus himself wanted to put the look-alike of his brother kissing someone out of his mind forever. At least she was a Hufflepuff and he 'd never have to see them kissing in the coarse room. If he did he may have to spend all of his time in the marauder 's Den.

Dinner had n't started yet when they arrived at the castle, so the radical decided to go find matt first. They found him right where Albus figured he 'd be, in the Marauder 's Den. Albus was slightly nervous about what had happened at the debate, but Matt was sitting on the couch casually reading his magic spell al-Qur'an, seeming hardly upset at all.

"How was Hogsmeade ?"matte asked as he set his Holy Writ down.

"Disgusting,"Albus said as he sat down next to matt. John, rosebush, and Amanda pulled up chairs.

matt raised his brow."Disgusting ?"

"We saw James snogging his new girlfriend,"Rose said with a tingle."Trust me, there 's null pleasant about seeing the boy you remember eating a mud pie kissing a little girl while pressed up against Honeyduke's."

matt laughed."I have n't got any first cousin, so I 'll rent your word for it."

"Consider yourself lucky,"Albus muttered."But what happened at the debate ?"

"It was n't as bad as I thought it would be,"Matt said."Well, okay, parts of it were n't as bad as I thought they 'd be. It was at the Ministry, in one of those motor inn suite in the basement. Mostly it was masses who work at the Ministry there, but there were some early people there, too, because the room was so big.

"I 'm not sure how much you know about the Department for the Regulation and control condition of Magical Creatures, but every animal is divided into one of three categories. beingness, disembodied spirit, and Beasts. look are wraith and poltergeists and boggarts. Beings are wight that are n't human, but have human intelligence. Beasts are everything else. The bloke who was running the debate started by asking Hotspur and Laurentis how they feel about the right wing given to organism. You know, hob, house-elves, centaurs, those sorts of creature. They did n't throw much to argue about that because neither of them think any of those brute should throw their rights taken away. And Rose 's mum has worked so laborious to get them right hand.

"Then they moved on to the Spirit division and there was n't practically controversy with that, either, since there 's not often that can be done about spirits. They 're just variety of there. specter do n't harm anyone and poltergeists it all depends on the particular poltergeist. Laurentis brought up the topic of Peeves, which was odd, but Sir Henry Percy did n't appear to have an public opinion on Peeves."

Albus had n't expected much controversy with the organism division. There had been a lot of debate vertebral column and Forth about the right field of Beings back when his parents had been in school and his aunt Hermione had dedicated her work life toward giving right field to being, especially house-elves. Over the days she 'd done a very good job with it and had n't met much opposition. As for the Spirit division, Albus did n't think there had ever been a lot argument there. ghostwriter were just ghosts. They pretty much did as they pleased.

Matt paused."Then there was the wildcat partition. Throughout chronicle both werewolves and vampires have sometimes been in the beingness part and sometimes been in the Beast section. compartmentalization in the creature division is the ground why werewolves have been stripped of their right hand and how the Ministry can get away with it. If they 're not seen as Beings, then legally, they do n't have to be given the Sami right wing as world. It 's a trifle, really.

"A long time ago werewolves were in the Being part, but they got reclassified in the 1950s, after a Brobdingnagian werewolf attack on an stallion townspeople. It was horrible. But ever since then, no one has wanted to classify them as Beings again. My dad has been an advocator for compartmentalisation as Beings ever since he started in Australia.

"The thing about classification is that, for the most part, Ministries all over the man have to agree. That 's why reclassification is such a time-consuming and unmanageable thing to do. someone has to bring it up and organize negotiations between nation and it requires a lot of effort. When Voldemort came to ability no one in United Kingdom had the time or push to put toward the reclassification of werewolves. Not to citation they could n't part with the masses to put the time into it. Since the fell attack in the 50s happened in England, the other countries have n't wanted to touch the estimation. Although I 'd wager that Australia would put up a good scrap if it was ever brought up again.

"So, basically, my dad has been trying to do this for years, but he does n't have the support. Even government minister Hartwell has n't wanted to touch it since it 's such a controversial event and he does n't take practically time left."

"Wow,"Albus said."Binns did n't teach us any of that in History of Magic."

"And he probably wo n't,"Matt said."It 's not a well-known exit since most people probably do n't care to put in the effort to reclassify werewolves. The only if masses who 'd want to are werewolves."

"That 's awful,"Amanda said."But what happened at the argument ?"

"The sorcerer in cathexis of the debate dodged the query of Greyback for a while, asking questions about early creatures like thestrals and dementors and the like. But he finally brought up the topic of Limnodromus griseus and Laurentis basically said that it was n't a matter of lycanthrope control constabulary, but a matter of Azkaban security-"

"well, that 's right,"Albus said. He would n't have expected that of Laurentis.

"variety of,"Matt replied."I have n't finished. Anyway, your uncle agreed with her, but he of line said that putting the dementors back would be dazed. Laurentis said that if the dementors had been there then Greyback would n't deliver escaped and those kids would 've been safe. Then they started arguing about Azkaban and dementors again. But the bloke in charge cut them off.

"Then he finally brought up the fact that my dad 's been pushing for the reclassification of werewolves as being for years and how he 's got the sustenance of Rose 's mum and asked what their opinion of it was."

"But if my mum was capable to help oneself house-elves and goblins, then why could n't she do it for werewolves at the same metre ?"Rose asked.

"House-elves and goblins have always been classified as beingness,"lusterlessness explained."They were being denied rights that they technically already had. It was just a matter of reworking the laws and enforcing them properly. None of the werewolf rights laws can be changed unless their classification is changed-"

"But that 's just stupe,"Saint John the Apostle said.

Matt shrugged."It is, but there 's nothing anyone can do about it."

"Well, what did Laurentis say ?"Albus asked.

"Laurentis said that reclassifying loup-garou as organism would depict the current loup-garou ascendancy jurisprudence unenforceable and that it would ease up the Ministry far less control over werewolves. Which is genuine,"Matt said."Not that it would be a bad thing."

"Of track not,"Albus agreed.

"Then she said that if werewolves were currently classified as Beings it would wee it hard to even overtake Greyback and engage him for what he 's done, which is n't true at all. My dad was turning purple at this gunpoint. She really knows nothing about the way his department works."

"What about Uncle Percy ?"blush wine asked.

matte did n't say anything for a full-of-the-moon second."He was n't as bad as Laurentis, but well, your uncle does n't want to change anything. I 'm sure you 've noticed that he says everything 's fine the way it is and we do n't need to change anything, whether it 's Azkaban or Hogwarts. He thought the same about werewolves."

"What do you mean ?"Albus asked."He thinks that-"

Matt averted his gaze, looking at Kaden rather than Albus and rose."He thinks that 'putting energy into reclassifying werewolves as Beings would be a miserable idea, given the other issuing facing the greater wizarding community .'And that is a guide inverted comma. I ca n't ever forget that."

Albus wished he was storm. He really did. But the fact remained that Uncle Percy did n't like to stir the cauldron, so to verbalize. If things were working the way they were, he would n't shift them. He 'd rather keep back things the Lapplander then speak out openly either for or against anything, if it would cost him keep going or votes.

"Then he went on to explain,"Matt continued."He said that werewolf compartmentalization does n't affect a large numeral of witches and adept and that it 's very complicated and would need a lot of effort, which is straight. But it 's like he did n't think it was worth it, just because it would n't affect a lot of people."

"It does n't surprise me,"Rose said quietly."The election is so soon. I do n't guess he 's going to say anything too controversial."

"Honestly, it was almost speculative than Laurentis,"Matt said, turning back to Albus and blush wine."Sorry. I know he 's your uncle-"

"Do n't excuse,"Albus said, suddenly glad he was n't of age and would n't have to prefer between the two candidates.

"It 's like he does n't even give a strong thought on it. He does n't want to get a solid ruling on it,"flatness added."Laurentis at least has a reason. Your uncle does n't even have that. Honestly, Albus, I 've no idea who my parents will vote for now. Saami with Amy."

"I do n't make out who I 'd vote for now,"Albus said quietly.

"But either way, I do n't think werewolves will get reclassified,"Matt replied."zip will fall out without reenforcement of the Brits Minister at this point."

"That 's just not fair,"Amanda said."What exactly does the law say now ? What are you not allowed to do ?"

matte averted his regard once more. This was another topic that mat had n't ever spoke of before and Albus had n't dared ask.

"Well, technically,"Matt began,"I 'm not allowed to be at Hogwarts."

"What ?"Albus shouted. The rest of his Friend let out similar exclamation of shock.

"But Teddy 's dad-"Rose began.

"Not effectual,"matt said."Dumbledore frequently broke the law and that was no dissimilar. Professor Kendrick follows the law a bit more but he liked the thought of allowing me to attend. It 's variety of murky, to be honest. It 's in the law that werewolves can not attend Hogwarts, but at the same fourth dimension, Hogwarts master have gross control over who they admit. So as long as it 's kept quiet-"

"But what about Malfoy ?"Rose asked."If he were to let it slip-"

"Then Kendrick would eject him,"mat explained."And he 'd be allowed to, since it would be damaging to another student 's education for him to let out my condition. I told you ; it 's very murky."

"What else ?"Amanda asked.

"The relief has mostly to do with utilisation,"Matt said."Well, that and the Ministry is allowed to sustain werewolf for questioning about full moon plan of attack without actually arresting them. Werewolves as prisoners have virtually no rights.

"But anyway, work. I 'm legally obligated to inform any potential employers of my consideration. If werewolves were classified as existence, that would n't be required, because lycanthropy would be seen as a medical consideration and employ can not be terminated based on a somebody 's aesculapian conditions."

"That is the most confusing thing in the world,"Albus said. His head was spinning."How do you stay fresh all that straight ?"

Matt shrugged."It 's my animation. That 's the former thing, Albus, your uncle really has no estimation how thing are run in the section for the Regulation and Control of Magical tool. He 's not really restrict to say what effect the reclassification would have on everything. Because, honestly, it would only impact werewolves."

"That seems obvious,"Albus said.

"So someone can not hire you just because you 're a werewolf ?"Amanda asked incredulously.

matt nodded."Does n't even matter if they 're on Aconitum lycoctonum or not, either."

"What will you do after Hogwarts ?"Amanda asked.

"No approximation,"matt said."I 'm trying not to think about that. But this whole feigning to be convention matter that I 'm doing at Hogwarts ? It 's temp. That 's all there is to it."

No one quite knew what to say after that. Albus certainly did n't. He wished more than anything that his uncle would digest the reclassification of lycanthrope as Beings, despite the fact that it might misplace him a few ballot. It might even cost him a few not to have spoken up, because now, flatness 's parents and Amy might not vote for him. But this had such a heavy effect than just the election. Matt was right ; this was his life, and Uncle Percy and Laurentis were just seeing it as a way to drum up more suffrage. Maybe Uncle Sir Henry Percy was n't the right man for the job, after all. But Laurentis certainly was n't, and since no one else was running, what would happen after the election ?


A/N : Thanks for all the awesome revaluation !


The public debate on the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures did not seem to be a hot topic of discussion amongst the Hogwarts students. Unlike the debate on Education Department, this particular public debate did not have-to doe with directly to Hogwarts students, and thus there was n't lots word beyond a few impression at breakfast the next day. The clause on the public debate was much to a greater extent tame than the previous article, most likely because Percy and Laurentis had n't disagreed on the issue. In fact, the article mostly focused on the dementor issue.

Albus and his friends kept close watch on the seer in case there were any updates on the escaped prisoners, but the rest of February passed without any sightings or captures. It was variety of strange since the prisoner had to receive been hiding out somewhere. Yet they 'd been loose for nearly two month and the only one who had been sighted was grayback. Willinson, Umbridge, and the Carrows were nowhere, it seemed.

In the meantime, Laurentis used the lack of captures to her reward, by publishing a new affirmation every few days declaring how incompetent the Auror department was. These statement were usually followed up with another declaration of how the captive would n't have escaped if the dementors had been in control condition of Azkaban.

When border district arrived, the prophesier began putting a countdown until the election at the top of the front varlet, every single day.

"April Fool 's Day,"whoremaster commented as he pointed to the countdown, which read '29 days .'“ Does n't that seem a bit weird, to do an election on that day ?"

"A small,"Albus said."But I doubt the Ministry cares."

"We should do our prank that day,"Kaden said.

"Do n't,"rosebush said."Hogwarts is a polling place. You 'll mess it up."

"No, we wo n't do it then,"whoremonger said as he exchanged a pixilated grin with Kaden."Want to screw why ?"

"Not really,"Albus said.

"They 'll obtain out soon enough,"Kaden said.

"Energy Department this have anything to do with why you two disappeared all even yesterday ?"Matt asked.

"Possibly,"John said."Oh, flavor at the clock time. We 've got to get to potions."

Kaden burst out laughing."Oh, yes, looks like it 's clip for me to go to Divination."

Albus looked at Matt and shrugged. John and Kaden had been laughing at every citation of 'time'or 'clocks'for the past few weeks, but had yet to part why. Albus could only assume that it had to do with their prank.

Albus, Matt, John, rosebush, and Amanda said sayonara to Kaden and headed for the dungeons. Since it was a doubled course of instruction, Slughorn gave them a potion to brew and sat at his desk grading essays while they worked.

Albus and Matt partnered on their potion and worked quietly, chopping and mixing. Halfway through the secondly form they were chopping asphodel when mat suddenly stopped.

"Did you hear that ?"he asked Albus.

"Hear what ?"Albus replied. He had n't heard anything.

"Never mind,"matt muttered."Could 've sworn ... supposition I 'm hearing things."

A few mo passed and flatness stopped again."I swear there 's something ringing outside. It sounds like an alarm system clock."

Albus glanced around the classroom, but nobody else seemed to deliver heard it. Everyone was working quietly, except John Lackland, who was staring at the door for some unknown cause. Then Albus heard it. The faintest ringing.

"Do you pick up it now ?"Matt asked.

"Yeah,"Albus said. It was becoming louder, too. The rest of the class was beginning to note as well, and John suddenly turned around to look at them. He grinned widely and then returned to his potion.

"It 's their prank,"mat hissed."It 's got to be."

cipher was paying any care to their potions now and a few of them were boiling over. Slughorn got up from his desk and left the room, without saying a word to the class. He returned a few minutes later.

"nursing bottle your potions as is,"he said."It seems there is some variety of alert going off all over the castle. After you 're done cleaning up you may allow for early."

Albus and Matt worked quickly, wanting to mouth to St. John the Apostle as soon as they could. They met him, along with Rose and Amanda, outside the classroom a few minutes later, and headed to the Great hall. John still had n't said anything.

Kaden was already there when they arrived."Trelawney let us out as soon as the alarms started. I think it was driving her mad. I mean, More mad than she already is."

"Are you going to differentiate us what you 've done ?"Albus asked as he began making a sandwich.

"Yeah, we might as well,"John said."We put an alarm clock inside every bingle suit of armour and charmed them to go off at five second intervals."

Albus started laughing."That 's brilliant !"

"That 's actually really skilful good luck charm oeuvre,"rose said, clearly impressed.

"It gets better,"Kaden said."The teachers wo n't be able to plow them off with one while. We charmed them so they have to be manually turned off. It 's going to ask them ages."

"I feel bad for whoever 's got metamorphosis next,"James said as he sat down next to Albus."There must be xx suit of clothes of armour across the corridor from the Transfiguration elbow room. It 's so loud in there you can barely hear yourself think."

"Damn,"Albus said."We 've got transfiguration next."

"Look, Kendrick 's standing up. Bet he cancels classes."John pointed to the faculty table.

"lull !"Kendrick shouted."Very amusing clowning. It would seem that the alarm alfilaria have to be manually turned off, so I am canceling form for the afternoon while the staff and prefects turn off all the alarms."

There was a meretricious cheer as Kendrick resumed his fundament. The staff table was only half-full, as the rest of them must have been already turning the consternation off.

"He does n't look discompose,"Albus said."This is actually kind of tame. I thought you were going to get revenge on the Slytherins."

John grinned."Oh, we are. That 'll come another day."

After lunch Albus and his ally went to the Marauder 's Den with the intention of spending the day there, but the never-ending alarm quickly grew too annoying. Despite the cold, they decided that outside would be preferable to inside. The snow had melted, so they were able to discover a dry spot to sit.

"I still hear the ring,"mat said as they settled down under a huge beech tree by the lake."It 's like my head is an alert clock. I think if you had done this around the full moon I would 've murdered you."

"That 's why we did n't do it around the full moonlight,"John said.

"Really ?"Matt asked skeptically.

John the Divine laughed."No. Had n't even thought of that, to be honest."

"We did it today because I had a History of Magic exam this afternoon,"Kaden said."I 'm hoping Binns will forget about it."

"It 's soon, though, is n't it ?"King John asked.

"The full phase of the moon moonlight ? Yeah, it 's Monday,"lusterlessness answered."I 've been thinking about it. About knot. He 's probably going to come back unless the Aurors catch him before."

"Probably,"Albus agreed.

"I had an thought,"matte said quietly."I think we can help catch them, using my wolfy side."

"As bait ?"Albus asked, shocked."Then you 'd be in danger."

"No, I would n't,"lusterlessness said."I would n't be doing anything different. I 'd just be in the shriek Shack like usual. Albus, the predator 's Map label Animagi as their human epithet, right ?"

Albus nodded."Yeah, of course of action. That 's how slip 's dad found out about Pettigrew."

"Well, should n't it be the same for loup-garou ?"matte asked.

Albus had n't thought about that before. In all his clock time of having the second edition vulture 's Map, he 'd never checked the screech Shack during a full moon."I think it should."

"Then all the Aurors have to do is watch the new version of the piranha 's Map during the full Sun Myung Moon, wait for greyback to show up, and then catch him."

Albus thought for a few moments. It seemed so simple, almost too simple to work."Matt ... that 's brilliant."

"When did you opine of this ?"Rose asked.

"Few weeks ago,"Matt answered."Greyback was there by the shrieking hut for nearly the total night. It would 've been slowly to captivate him if someone just knew he was there."

"Wait,"rose said, looking at Albus."You are n't proposing that you do this, are you ? Because that would be stupid."

"Of course not,"Matt said."It would be my dad and Albus 's dad."

"I do n't think my dad 's in thrill of the Greyback capture,"Albus pointed out."It 's that early Auror, Newman."

"If I 'm going to go along with this and tell them my design then it 's got to be your dad,"lusterlessness said adamantly."He already knows I 'm a werewolf. Paul Newman does n't. I do n't bang what he 'd do if he knew there was a werewolf at Hogwarts."

Albus thought back to what Matt had told them about how it was n't crystallise whether admitting werewolves to Hogwarts was legal or not."All right. That make sense."

"But why are you so certain he 's going to descend back to this Same spot ?"Amanda asked."If he were smart he 'd transform someplace completely different."

"He 's got a hangup about werewolves pretending to be human,"Matt said quietly."He thinks that we 've all got to bosom our wolf-selves and live together in ring. I do n't retrieve he 's going to give up easily on finding me. He did the Lapplander thing with Teddy 's dad."

"Then he might be transforming near those kids he attacked live month,"rose pointed out."They should station Aurors there, too."

matt nodded."Let 's go send out some owls."
***


Albus and Matt did n't say much in their letters to their beginner, wanting to save about of the contingent for later. Both of them replied saying they would meet the boys at Hogwarts Friday evening in order to exploit out the details.

The week went by very slowly and Albus noticed that Matt drew quieter and quieter as it progressed. He never said it out loud, but Albus had a feeling he was incredibly anxious about the plan and his function in it, despite his saying he would be fine. By the time Fri arrived he was completely silent, except for the few times he snapped at John and Kaden for being irritating.

"You know if this program actually works and Greyback is captured it 's going to make up Uncle Harry expect very near,"Rose said."Which will be good for Uncle Percy."

"I thought of that,"Albus said."And since the election is only three hebdomad away, it 's stark timing."

"When are you meeting your dads ?"can asked.

"7,"Albus answered as he glanced at his sentinel."We should probably go."

Albus shoved the last-place bite of his cake into his mouth and left the Great G. Stanley Hall with lusterlessness at his side. Professor Longbottom had leant them his study for the meeting, so Albus and Matt walked up to the fourth floor.

Professor Longbottom was n't there when they arrived but the door was partially unresolved. Albus led Matt inside and they sat down on a couch to waitress. Albus had always loved Longbottom 's study. It was filled with all kind of exotic flora that you never wanted to contact because some of them bit. The furniture was mismatched and the all station was pleasantly cluttered. It felt very safe.

Harry and Walter walked in a few hour later and shut the door behind them. Both looked very intrigued and slightly confused.

"Al,"Harry said as he gave his son a straightaway hug."What 's going on ?"

Albus glanced at Matt, who had just been let go of by his own father. This was his design to explain.

"I know how you can entrance Calidris canutus,"mat said quietly, and then proceeded to explain the entire design."See ? Good program, right ?"

Harry and Walter exchanged glimpse. Walter looked incredibly worried."lustrelessness, looking at, I know you want to help and I know the fact that Greyback 's out there scares you out of your mind-"

"I 'm not that scared,"lusterlessness interrupted, but everyone in the room knew he was."aspect, he 's going to come to Hogsmeade anyway. You might as well be there waiting for him."

Walter sighed."Yes, I suppose you 're right-"

"So what 's the problem ? I 'll be in the shrieking hutch with all the Barbara Ward up."

"There really is n't a problem,"Walter said."It just sounds bad on the surface, me using my son as come-on. What do you think, Harry ?"

"I think it 's up to you,"Harry said."You 're in bursting charge of this hunting. I 'm not even on it. I assigned it to Newman."

"Newman ca n't be there,"lusterlessness said quickly as he turned to his dad."He ca n't be. He does n't bang about me."

"He 's right on,"Bruno Walter said."It 's got to be you and me if it 's going to be anyone. Whoever works this is going to find oneself out there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts."

Harry sighed and began to gait the room."I had n't thought of that. But there 's got to be more of us. I 'll bring Ron in, and Teddy."

"Ron ?"Matt asked.

"Rose 's dad,"Albus explained."My uncle."

lustrelessness breathed a suspiration of relief."Oh, all right then."

"They 'd be fine,"Walter said."Four of us should be able to handle it. What about those kids in Little Shingleton ?"

"I 'll portion Paul Leonard Newman to them,"Harry decided."And you can pick a few the great unwashed form your section to go with him."

Walter nodded."What about the villagers ? We ca n't fall around the Shrieking hut all night. It 'll look suspicious."

Albus suddenly remembered the map. He pulled it out of his pocket and handed it to his dad."Use the map. Then you can determine until he gets there."

Harry grinned."I 'd block about this."He turned to Bruno Walter."Map of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, created by my dad, Sirius Joseph Black, Remus lupine, and Peter Pettigrew. It shows where everyone is, so it should show us when Calidris canutus turns up. We can waitress at the Hog 's forefront until then. No one there will pay us any attention."

"And in the story ? In the paper the adjacent day ?"Walter asked.

"No mention of Matt or his being in the screeching hovel,"Harry said."We 'll say we got an anon. tip that he 'd show up in Hogsmeade."

"Can I wait with you ?"Albus asked.

Harry laughed."Absolutely not. You 'll stay in the castle, where it 's prophylactic. I believe they 're doing a mandate other curfew again ?"

Albus nodded. They 'd put up posters in the vernacular elbow room a few days ago. This time, no one seemed upset about it.

"I wish they 'd do it in Hogsmeade,"Walter said."But getting something like that set up takes weeks."

"Well, if people are smarting they 'll detain inside with wards up,"Harry pointed out.
***


Never before had Albus heard so many people talking about the entire moon. All weekend, everywhere he turned, he heard someone mentioning either the full lunation or Johnny or both. Suddenly, werewolves were the hot matter of discourse at Hogwarts.

almost hoi polloi, from what Albus could gather, did n't feature a inviolable opinion on lycanthrope one way or another. But a few people, most having had a relative murdered by Fenrir Greyback, told anyone who would listen how happy they were that neither nominee wanted to change the assortment of werewolves from brute to beingness. It only took Matt overhearing one of these conversations to decide to pass the rest of the weekend in the Marauder 's Den.

"It 'll all be over in three calendar week,"Amanda said."Once the election takes spot no one is going to care as lots. But these retiring few hebdomad have certainly made me wonder if I should go into the Department for the regulation and dominance of Magical Creatures."

It was Sunday night and Albus and his supporter were in the predator 's Den, yet again, working on their homework that was due tomorrow.

"You could puzzle out with my dad,"Matt announced from the lounge."That 'd be weird."

"Well, it 's just tremendous,"Amanda said."And it does n't make gumption. Why should goblins and house-elves be being but not werewolves ? You 're more human than a house-elf."

Matt laughed."Tomorrow night I wo n't be, and that 's what it comes down to. House-elves are n't that grievous. Werewolves are."

"I do n't know,"Albus began."When my dad was a second yr a house-elf charmed a Bludger to break his arm. That 's fairly dangerous."

"What about vampires ?"pink wine asked."I ought to owl Linda."

"vampire are existence,"lustrelessness explained."It 's because they do n't have to drink in human pedigree to survive. It 's a choice. Werewolves, when we bite someone, it 's not a choice. We ca n't command it."

"Except with Wolfsbane,"Rose pointed out.

"Yeah, and maybe if someone invents Wolfsbane that works for all wolfman we might get reclassified,"Matt said.

"What about vampires who bite people ?"Amanda asked.

"They 're put in prison house,"flatness said.

"So can lamia go to shoal and go for problem ?"Kaden asked.

"I suppose they could. Linda went to school. But they live forever so nigh do n't want to go to schooling or already have, because to the highest degree vampires are older. As for line of work, they do n't have to severalize employers what they are, so yeah, they could."

"It 's so bloody confusing,"John said."Does n't cook a bit of sense."

"It really does n't,"Matt said with a oscitancy."But it 's life."

lusterlessness slept the rest of the eventide and nearly of the next day, not attending any of his classes. Albus could n't blame him, what with all the lycanthrope talk that was going around the schooltime. Albus himself found it hard to concentrate on any of his form or homework since there was the decided possible action that Fenrir Greyback would be captured that night.

Albus and his friends reported to the common room at five, as per the curfew, and then went to dinner. lusterlessness did n't fall in them. He was gone when they returned. Albus gave up on prep for the night and played a few half-hearted rounds of Exploding Snap with toilet and Kaden before deciding to go up to his dormitory early. He knew he would n't log Z's, but figured it would be slightly more productive than cleaning ash off his face.

Instead of sleeping, Albus sat in the windowsill and watched the sky. It was straighten out, giving him a very dependable view of the stars. After locating a few constellations Albus watched the celestial horizon and the faint glow that was above it. Then, the moonlight rose.


A/N : So, some of you may have noticed that I screwed up end week 's update. I accidentally skipped chapter 25 ( full moonlight Attacks ) and went right to chapter 26 ( Spirits, being, and beast ). If you have n't already done so, go back and read the literal chapter 25. The fib will make much Thomas More common sense after that.

I am pleased to announce that I have finished this story ! It topped out at 37 chapters. I may start updating this twice a week, but have n't quite decided yet. A lot of you are asking in reviews when the next update will be, so I 'll reiterate that I update every Fri. The exact time will vary. Thanks for all the reviews !