A/N : This story describes how Albus, Matt, Amanda, John, and rosiness get their Hogwarts letter. Each chapter contians words from a Song by Jared Campbell. Each chapter 's name is a lyric poem from the same Sung dynasty. The account is named after his strain, liveliness Is Good.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramicist or any of Jared Campbell 's songs.

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effort fate, it 's in my way
and I do n't induce the longanimity to put life sentence on clutches,
I think I 'm holding out for something more.
~Fate, Jared Campbell



Eleven-year-old Albus Severus Potter was standing in front of the windowpane in the drafting room of his British capital firm, Grimmauld Place. He had been standing perfectly still for the past two arcminute, watching as a dot in the sky got larger and gravid until it was placeable as an owl.

The owl was close now and it looked like it was heading straight for Grimmauld Place. It was close enough for Albus to detect its ruffled brown feathers and the letters wrapped around its stage. Albus gulped and he rubbed his sweaty hands on his pants.

observance for the sunup mail had become a routine for Albus over the past few days. As soon as he woke up, he would stomach by the window waiting for the owl that he knew would get in soon. The owl from Hogwarts schooling of Witchcraft and genius that would bring him his acceptance missive. Albus 's older brother, James, had received his letter of the alphabet a class ago, in mid-July, and Albus was sure his would go far at roughly the same time.

Albus wrenched open the window and the owl soared inside. It stuck out its leg and Albus quickly detached the letters. The owl gave a loud tinker's dam and then soared out the window. Albus shut it as he rifled through the letters. One was addressed to Saint James the Apostle. But the other, the other was addressed to Albus.

Albus sat down on the couch and slowly turned the letter over in his hands. He swallowed punishing and began to open it with shaking custody. He pulled it out of the envelop and record it.

Albus closed the letter, grinning to himself. It had finally arrived. Albus had been kind of unquiet about it the entire summer. He knew it would make it, but after days of no hooter from Hogwarts, he had gotten a bit worried.

Albus stood up and ran to the step. He had to stir up James River up. James had been teasing Albus ever since he returned from Hogwarts, telling him he would n't get his letter. Albus knew King James I liked to joke, but it had gotten a bit irritating by the thirdly week.

James 's bedroom door was closed, but that did n't hold back Albus. After all, James always barged into Albus 's way. Albus banged open the door and peered down at James, who was curled up on his bed. He looked rather innocent when he was sleeping, but if anyone could make trouble even while sleeping, it was James.

Albus glanced around the room, trying to intend of a creative way to fire up him up. He wished he had a verge and could spout water system in King James 's face.

Albus decided to just go with the old standby of staring at James until he woke up. It usually worked. Albus peered down until he was only inches from James and waited.

All of a sudden, Epistle of James 's center shot open and he jumped back. He hit his head on the rampart behind his bed and winced.

`` What the hell, Al ? '' James shouted as he rubbed his head, `` Do you realize what clock time it is ? ``

`` Nine in the morning, '' Albus said, `` Sorry about your caput. ``

`` It 's ok, '' Saint James the Apostle muttered, `` I 'll get you back eventually. But why in the name of Merlin did you awaken me up so early ? ``

Albus pulled his letter out of his envelop and proudly shoved it in James 's face. James River grabbed it and scanned it. He gave it back to Albus and grinned.

`` See, you got it, '' William James said.

`` I know, '' Albus said, `` But you 're the one who said I would n't. ``

`` I was only joking, '' James shrugged, `` It 's what brothers do. Now you get to do it with Lily. ``

Albus shrugged. He sorting of doubted Lily would trust him if he told her she was n't going to Hogwarts. She 'd been waiting impatiently for her Hogwarts letter since she was five or so. Now she was nine and she still had two years to go.

`` Oh, you got your book lean, too, '' Albus handed Saint James the Apostle the alphabetic character addressed to him.

`` Excellent, '' James grinned as he ripped it open, `` Maybe Mum and Dad will get me a broom as an early birthday present tense. Then I can try out for Seeker this year and not have got to use one of those schooling brooms. ``

James was entering his minute year and was determined to turn Gryffindor 's new seeker. He had been practicing all summertime on one of their mum 's old brooms. James 's birthday was in November and he had been giving their parents not so subtle wind about a new broom ever since he returned home from school.

`` fountainhead, I 'm going to go see if we can go to Diagon Alley today, '' Albus said.

`` Then I can get my broom, '' James replied and laid back down.

Albus looked back at James as he left, and noticed that he already had his eyes closed.

Albus ran back downstairs and to the kitchen. Both of his parents were sitting at the tabular array eating ballock and toast.

`` It came ! '' Albus said proudly as he set his letter down in between his parents.

`` Congratulations, Al, '' Harry grinned and ruffled Ablus 's pilus, `` Told you you just had to be patient. ``

`` That 's rattling, Albus, '' Ginny got up and kissed the top of his top dog, `` We can go shopping today, if you 'd like. ``

`` Definitely, '' Albus grinned, `` Saint James the Apostle wants to go, too. He wants his new broom. ``

Ginny rolled her eyes as she put her plate in the cesspit. `` We 'll see about that. ``

`` mom ! ! ! ! '' Lily came shrieking down the stairs.

Albus turned around and saw that she had a hair brush stuck in her hair and her eyes were welling up with tears.

`` Mummy ! '' Lily cried, `` It 's amaze ! ``

Ginny sighed and picked up her wand. `` Lily, what were you doing ? ``

`` I was just trying to make my haircloth curly like Rosie 's, '' Lily pouted as Ginny started to disencumber the brushing from her hair.

`` Lily, what have I told you about wrapping your hair around your brush ? '' Ginny asked.

`` Not to do it, '' Lily muttered.

`` Exactly, '' Ginny said, `` Albus got his Hogwart 's letter. ``

`` Really ? '' Lily shrieked and ran away from Ginny just as she got the brush free, `` Where is it ? I want to see ! ``

Albus grabbed his letter off the board and held it in nominal head of Lily. Lily stared wide eyed at it and tried to snap up it away from Albus. Albus held it up above her head.

`` I wan na hold it ! '' Lily shouted.

`` No, '' Albus shook his head.

`` Mum ! '' Lily shouted, `` He wo n't let me see it ! ``

`` It 's his varsity letter, Lils, '' Harry replied.

Lily crossed her arms across her bureau. `` mulct. I want to go to Hogwarts, too. ``

`` You 're not old enough. You just have to be patient, Lily, '' Ginny told her.

Harry snorted into his juice. `` I seem to think back person else who was raring about going to Hogwarts. ``

Ginny smacked Harry playfully on the head with that morning 's copy of the vaticinator. `` Oh, shut it, Harry. ``

Albus poured himself a bowl of food grain and sat down just as the fireplace lit up with green flames. It cleared a few seconds later and out stepped a boy in his late teens who had aquamarine colored hair.

`` Teddy ! '' Albus shouted and jumped up from the table, `` I got my varsity letter just now ! '' Albus handed shimmy his letter.

`` Brilliant, '' Teddy grinned and scanned Albus 's letter, `` Merlin, I wish I still had another class there. ``

`` That 's only because then you could put off deciding what you want to do with your life, '' Ginny laughed.

`` No, so I could be there when Albus is there, '' Teddy groaned, `` But I suppose you 're compensate, too. ``

`` Of course of instruction I am, '' Ginny said.

`` Anyway, I just stopped by to say hi on my way to wreak, '' shift said as he grabbed a objet d'art of toast off Harry 's plate.

`` And to steal my food, '' Harry muttered.

`` That, too, '' slip grinned, `` I 'm working at the Diagon skittle alley store today, so will I see you lot there later ? ``

`` Yep, '' Harry nodded, `` We 'll be there. I 'm going to see if Ron and Hermione want to go as well. blush wine probably got her letter today. ``

`` speech sound skilful, '' Teddy said as he stepped back into the open fireplace and disappeared in green flames.

******

A few hours later ( after James I had woken up ), the ceramicist family found themselves in Diagon alley. The street was filled with returning Hogwarts student and their families.

Albus had been to Diagon alleyway legion times before, but there was something very energize about going there to buy supplies for Hogwarts. He was getting to do everything James had done the premature year. Albus was especially excited about going to Olivander 's and getting his wand.

They met Ron and Hermione Weasley, as well as their two kids, Rose and Victor-Marie Hugo, in figurehead of Gringott 's. Rose was a couple calendar month younger than Albus, but would be turning eleven in Aug and would be going to Hogwarts as well. Victor-Marie Hugo was Lily 's age.

`` Where to first ? '' Harry asked.

`` Olivander 's ! '' Albus announced.

`` Flourish and Blotts ! '' Rose said excitedly.

Albus stared at her like she had three point. How could his cousin want to go to the book computer memory before she got her wand ?

`` You 're genial, rosebush, '' James laughed, `` I say we go to Quality Quidditch Supplies ! ``

`` Eyelops ! '' Lily shouted.

`` You 're not even going to Hogwarts, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I do n't deal, '' Lily huffed.

`` Weasley 's genius Wheezes, '' Hugo suggested.

`` Then it 's settled, '' Harry grinned, `` We 're going to the Apothecary first. ``

Everybody groaned, but followed Harry down the street anyway. Albus sighed to himself. That was always how his dad settled arguments. He 'd pick what nobody had suggested.

The trip to the pill pusher was immediate. Nobody really wanted to mill about in there. Albus did n't particularly delight the place. It had an odd odour to it and there were cauldrons full of thing that looked like they were decaying.

After the pharmacist, they went to Madam Malkin 's, which was boring as well. Albus just did n't find buying robes very exciting. It seemed like his dad was doing the most irksome shopping first.

Finally, after a foresightful tripper to flourish and Blotts, Harry announced that Olivander 's was next on the tilt. Albus and rosebush ran ahead of the eternal sleep of the chemical group and arrived a few min before anyone else.

`` Ah, Albus and Rose, '' Olivander turned around and greeted them with a wispy voice.

`` Hello, Mr. Olivander. We 're getting our verge today, '' Albus grinned.

`` I thought so, '' Olivander smiled and walked slowly to the rows of baton that were behind him.

Olivander took measuring and then walked to the back of the store. He returned with a few wands just as the residual of the Potter and Weasley sept entered the store. Olivander greeted them and then handed Albus and Rose each a wand.

Albus smiled as he held the wand in his paw. It was an unconvincing feeling ; holding a scepter that could be his. He waved it and the window behind him exploded.

James burst out in laughter as Albus 's typeface turned brilliant red. He set the wand on Olivander 's desk and looked sheepishly at his family. Harry grinned and repaired Olivander 's window with a undulation of his own wand.

`` Perhaps this one, '' Olivander handed Albus another verge, `` XI and a stern column inch, Ash, phoenix feather. ``

Albus took the wand and all of a sudden a warm feeling enveloped him. If he did n't know any sound, he 'd say the sceptre actually glowed in his mitt for a disunited second. He could feel that it was the right one even before he waved it. He gave it a wave and gold Muriel Sarah Spark erupted from it.

`` Excellent, '' Olivander grinned.

A little while later, blush wine had her baton as well and the group left the shop. Albus was carrying his wand with the utmost care and staring more than at the box than what was in front line of him.

The adults decided that it would be best to visit Eyelops last since both Albus and Rose were getting owls. They did n't want to have to post the owls around all day.

Epistle of James was asking to go to character Quidditch Supplies every five minutes or so, but Harry led the way into Weasley 's hotshot Wheezes first.

`` Ron, Ginny ! '' George I greeted them as they entered, `` And Harry and Hermione ! You 've got everyone with you today. ``

`` Hogwarts shopping, '' Harry grinned, `` Al and Rosie just got their wand. ``

Albus proudly opened the box and showed his Uncle George his new baton. Rose did the same.

`` Brilliant, both of you ! '' George I said, `` And now I shall get you both ready for Hogwarts in the clowning department .... ''

Albus followed George into the depths of the store. He was not at all surprised that his uncle was assisting him with japery. George I was the possessor of Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes and was fabled at Hogwarts as one of the most mischievous students ever to attend.

`` Now, every pupil needs a Skiving Snackbox or two, '' George said as he handed Albus and Rose each a colorful box, `` After all, I ca n't reckon you 'll require to sit through History of deception very often. ``

Albus grinned as he took the box of confection to make one ill. He had heard many a story from his parents, aunt, uncles, cousins, and James about how boring Professor Binns'form were.

`` And then you 'll demand some dung bombs, '' George III said as he led them to a different display.

`` Last clock time I checked, those were still forbidden at Hogwarts, '' Hermione said sternly.

`` Oh, I 'm surely they are, '' George VI winked, `` But so long as Filch does n't find out out it was these two who set them off, it does n't weigh. ``

`` George Weasley ! '' Hermione scolded, `` You should be setting a serious example for these two ! No wonder Fred was in detainment every workweek final stage year ! ``

Albus laughed as he took a battalion of droppings dud off the shelf. His first cousin Fred was George 's son and just finished his third class at Hogwarts. Fred had taken after his father as far as pranking went.

`` Lighten up, Hermione, '' Ron laughed, `` Let them bear their fun. ``

`` Ronald ! '' Hermione shouted, `` You 're even worse ! ``

`` Harry ! '' Teddy burst out of the back room and joined the chemical group, `` Getting Al all the pranking mathematical product he 'll need this twelvemonth ? ``

`` Sure am, '' Harry grinned, `` Although I do n't think Hermione is too glad about it. ``

`` I am not buying this stuff for rose, '' Hermione stated.

After a few Sir Thomas More minutes of arguing, Hermione gave up and both Albus and rose wine had bag of Weasleys'production. James IV had replenished his cache as well and Albus had a opinion he 'd use everything up within a month.

George II closed the shop so he and Teddy could get something to eat and everyone went to the Leaky caldron for dinner. Albus mainly listened to the conversation but was very capacity. Going to Hogwarts was something he had been looking forward to for age and now it was finally happening.

James finally got to go to timbre Quidditch supply after dinner and got his betimes birthday present. Albus was slightly jealous about this, but knew that he could n't have his own broom at Hogwarts anyway. He was determined to make it onto the Quidditch team eventually, though.

The lowest stop of the day was Eyelops Owl emporium, which was a place Albus was almost as delirious about as he had been about Olivander 's. His parents had told him he 'd be able to get an owl when he went to Hogwarts.

`` I want an owl, '' Lily whined as they entered the shop.

`` In two old age, '' Harry replied.

`` That 's so far away, '' Lily groaned.

`` I know, '' Harry said as he picked her up, `` But it 'll go by dissipated than you think. ``

Albus began looking around at all the owl. He did n't really hold any ideas about what kind of owl he wanted ; he just thought he 'd bet around and see what owl like him.

There were bird of night of all sizes and colors. Edward Douglas White Jr. ones, blackamoor single, and speckled ones. humble 1, bombastic unity, and medium sized 1. Albus walked slowly through the shop and looked at each owl. His optic rested on an owl with gleaming topaz eyes and dark brown feathers. The owl had a few maculation of white on its head and it was staring directly at Albus.

Albus walked over to the owl and gave the owl a pat on its head. The owl gave a mild hoot and Albus knew it was the one for him. The owl flew onto his shoulder and Albus walked back to his parents.

`` I 've got my owl, '' he grinned.

`` What 's his epithet ? '' Harry asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` Have n't thought of one yet. ``

`` epithet him Salazar, '' James IV smirked, `` Because you 'll be in Slytherin. ``

`` What ? '' Albus stared at his comrade, `` I 'm not going to be in Slytherin. ``

`` You never know, '' James I said, `` There 's a 25 per centum chance that you might. ``

Albus was stunned. It was so obvious. There was a 25 percent chance that he 'd be in Slytherin. After all, there were four houses. But the thinking of being in Slytherin had never crossed his judgment. He always thought he 'd be in Gryffindor, where everyone in his whole family had been. It was possible for him to be in Slytherin, though. Or Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff. Neither of those would be that bad, but Albus wanted to be in Gryffindor.

`` quick to go, Al ? '' Harry asked, `` Rose just found her owl. ``

`` Oh, yeah, '' Albus said quietly, `` I 'm ready. And I 'm naming my owl Godric. ``

Albus followed his family out of the owl shop class and to the Leaky Cauldron. In two month, he 'd be at Hogwarts. The place where his parents went and most of the rest of his kinsfolk. The place he had been impatiently waiting to go to for years. He could n't call back of a time in his life where he had been more rouse. All he hoped was that he would wind up up in Gryffindor and maybe, just maybe, he would be capable to make a public figure for himself.


But he knows that it 's going to be all redress
drive the beloved that he 's got will keep him warm through the Night
life story is effective, life is good
~LIfe Is Good, Jared Campbell


Eleven-year-old St. Matthew Conan Eckerton was sitting below a large oak tree diagram in his backyard. His eyes were fold and he was resting his head against its rough trunk. The sun was beating down on him through the outgrowth above. For the yesteryear hour, the only if sound had been the occasional bird chirping or cow mooing. Then a loud revving broke the silence.

matt slowly opened his centre and squinted in the shiny sunlight. He glanced around to try and find out where the noise was coming from. In the distance, he saw the farmer riding his tractor through the theater that surrounded matt 's house.

matte lived in the land, far from any towns. His theatre was on an acre of belongings that was surrounded by farmland on three English and a woodland on the other. The nearby farmer owned all of the surrounding farmland and was regularly seen plowing or performing other tasks. The granger 's house was quite far away, although Matt could see it from where he was sitting. other than the farmer, lustrelessness had no other neighbors.

Matt 's parents, Walter and Julie, wanted it that way. Matt was not an ordinary eleven-year-old boy, even by wizarding standard. At the age of five, he was bitten by a lycanthrope and became one himself. For the past five and a half class, over half his life, he had been enduring painful shift every calendar month that left him exhausted and sick. As if he could be anymore strange, the Wolfsbane Potion which normally enabled a werewolf to keep his mind during broad moons, did not crop for Matt.

That finicky day happened to be the day of the full lunation. In only a few short-change hours, matt would be locked in a elbow room in the basement and go through the atrocious transformation into the wolf.

As the full moon was only a suddenly while away, matte was already feeling the issue of it. A few daylight beforehand, he would wear out quickly and get a lot of headaches. He also lost his appetite. At the import, he had a splitting concern which was not helped by the tractor, but felt too exhausted to move. He closed his eyes and tried to push aside the buffeting in his head and the tractor 's roaring.

`` matt, are you out here ? '' someone shouted.

matt opened his oculus again and saw his sister, Amy, walking towards him. `` I 'm over by the tree ! '' he shouted.

Amy ran the rest of the aloofness and sat down next to him. Her blonde whisker was thrown up into a messy ponytail and flying everywhere as she walked.

`` Thank Merlin, '' Amy sighed, `` I could n't see you anywhere. You know Mum does n't wish it when you go outside the day of the full moon. ``

matte groaned inwardly. His mother was extremely overprotective, in his public opinion. He understood she had her grounds and after what had happened in the past times, he could n't really charge her. But he was n't a babe anymore and he did n't conceive going outside was going to pain. He liked going outside before full lunar month since he 'd be cooped up inside for a few 24-hour interval afterwards.

`` Is she back yet ? '' Matt asked. His mother had gone to Diagon Alley to pluck up some foodstuff a little patch ago, leaving Amy to 'babysit'him. Matt thought this was ridiculous since he was eleven and certainly did not need a babysitter, but did n't argue with her. Plus, Amy was home anyway.

`` No, '' Amy replied, `` But I had to find you because this just came by owl. ``

Amy grinned as she handed Matt a letter. matte took it and turned it over. His breathing place caught in his chest as he saw the Hogwarts summit stamped on it. It was his Hogwarts letter.

Ever since Amy had begun her sorcerous education, when Matt was four, he had been excited about going himself. Even after he had been bitten by a loup-garou, he thought he 'd get to go. His parents had never said otherwise. Until they received a letter telling them lusterlessness could n't take care, that is.

The Eckertons had not lived in England their wholly living. Up until three years ago, they had lived in Commonwealth of Australia. Amy had attended the Australian schoolhouse of black magic until she was xiv. That was when their parents had asked the headmaster if matte would be able to attend. He said he could not.

Everything got worse from there. Someone who held a grievance against matte 's dad at the Ministry announced to the total body politic that mat was a wolfman ( something they had successfully hidden for over two age ) and then his dad lost his job because of it. He had been the principal of the department for the Regulation and ascendency of Magical brute. After that, the man who had announced lustrelessness 's lycanthropy became the head and decease legislation restricting the rights of werewolf.

Matt 's parents sent letters to numerous other school asking if he could see. Hogwarts schooling of Witchcraft and Wizardry in Scotland said yes. Matt 's dad found a job at the British Ministry, in Werewolf Support armed service, and they moved. Life had been better since then. Amy had a toilsome time adjusting, but eventually began to enjoy Hogwarts.

Due to all of this, Matt knew he would get a letter of the alphabet from Hogwarts this summer. He had been waiting for it for calendar week since he had no idea when it would arrive, but had momentarily forgotten about it that day. Despite knowing it was going to number, there was something very stimulate about it actually arriving.

Matt slowly peeled back the seal and opened the envelop. He pulled the letter out and carefully unfolded it.

`` Merlin, you 're deadening with that ! '' Amy exclaimed, `` I think I nearly ripped my alphabetic character from Australia when I got it. ``

`` That 's why I opened mine slowly, '' flatness smirked. He looked at the letter and understand it aloud. There was a post script at the end, one that Matt knew the rest of his beau scholarly person would not have received.

P.S. Please have your parents adjoin
us so we can set up a meter for you to
come to the shoal so we can discuss
the guard we have set up for
your lycanthropy.

mat folded the varsity letter and then looked up at Amy. He still could n't believe that it was finally his turn to go to Hogwarts. He had been secretly jealous of Amy for geezerhood. Every time she got to go shopping for supplies and then zip away on the Hogwarts Express, he watched with envious eyes.

`` It 'll be both of us going this year, '' Amy grinned.

matte nodded. `` I just hope I 'm in Gryffindor. ``

`` You will be, '' Amy assured him, `` sib usually get sorted into the same business firm. Victoire 's sister and brother are in Gryffindor like she is. All their cousin are there, too. ``

`` I got my supplying list, too, '' matte said as he pulled out another while of sheepskin, `` You get yours ? '' Amy was entering her one-seventh and last year at Hogwarts.

`` Yup, '' Amy nodded, `` We can go to Diagon Alley once you 're recovered from tonight. ``

`` Yeah, '' Matt said, wishing he did n't have to wait, `` Says I ca n't get a bring a broom, though. ``

`` Like Mum would let you bring one anyway, '' Amy laughed, `` Speaking of Mum, she 'll probably be back anytime. We should go back inside. ``

`` You wo n't severalise her I was out here, will you ? '' flatness asked as he stuffed his letter back in the envelop.

`` Nah, '' Amy grinned, `` Since when have I been one to do what Mum says anyway ? ``

matte stood up and felt dizzy as soon as he did so. He stumbled and Amy grabbed his arm. She let him lean on her as they walked slowly back to the star sign. The thing Matt hated even more than the actual shift into the wolf was how vomit he felt the days leading up to it. It was like getting the flu once a month.

To Matt 's relief, his mother was not back from Diagon alley when they got back to the house. Amy helped him to the couch and he laid down on it.

`` I am going to miss so many form during the wide-cut moons, '' matte groaned.

`` Yeah, you probably will, '' Amy agreed, `` But the teacher are nice so you 'll be capable to catch up. Well, almost of them are Nice. Washburn 's a nasty composition of piece of work, but the rest are courteous. And it 's not necessarily a bad matter to miss chronicle of Magic. There 's usually about a poop of the hoi polloi in my division using Puking Pastilles or nosebleed Nougats before that class. You 'll experience a built in excuse once a month. All the rest of the kids in your social class will be overjealous. ``

`` I doubt that, '' matt said darkly. Ever since he had first seen the sweets in a Skiving Snackbox, he was bewildered that people would actually eat sweet that would make you ill. He just could n't wrap his idea around actually wanting to be ill, even to miss a boring class. He 'd rather sit through the class.

`` Just hold open an assailable mind, '' Amy shrugged, `` There have been quite a few times where I would rather be in the Hospital Wing than in class. ``

Matt groaned and closed his eye. He wished he could go all seven years at Hogwarts without ever setting foot in the hospital Wing, but that was n't going to happen.

`` Amy, could you get me some of that headache potion ? '' he asked.

`` When did you net deliver it ? '' Amy asked.

`` When I woke up this dawn. ``

`` Sure, '' Amy replied and got up.

Matt heard the room access open up a moment later and his mum walked in, her munition laden with market bags.

`` Amy ! '' she shouted, `` Can you arrive assist me with these bags ? ``

`` knack on ! '' Amy shouted from the kitchen.

The bags dropped to the floor with a thump and Matt heard footfall coming closer. He felt his mother kiss his forehead and riffle his blonde hair.

`` How are you ? '' she asked softly.

`` Tired and I 've got a headache, '' matt mumbled.

`` I 'll get you some concern potion. ``

`` Amy 's already getting it, '' Matt replied.

His mum kissed his forehead once more and sat down future to him on the sofa. `` Amy, could you bring in the fever reducing agent, too ? ``

Matt squeezed his eyes shut tighter. No curiosity he felt frightening ; he had a feverishness. Now he was sort of glad he came inside when he did.

`` I got my Hogwarts letter, Mum, '' he whispered.

`` That 's wonderful, love, '' she replied, `` We 'll go shopping in a few days. ``

`` Here 's the potions, '' Amy said.

Matt cracked capable his centre and took one of the chalice Amy was holding. He drank it quickly and then grabbed the other one. He swallowed that one as fast as he could as well and gagged at the disgusting taste.

`` Can I get an owl ? '' he yawned.

`` Of course, beloved, '' his mum said as she rubbed his back, `` Just go to sleep now. We 'll spill to a greater extent about it tomorrow. ``

Matt nodded and closed his middle. He fell asleep quickly, feeling the happiest he had ever been the day of a full moon.

******

`` flatness, '' someone whispered as they shook him.

Matt opened his center and saw his dad bent down in social movement of the couch. `` Hey, Dad. ``

`` I just heard you got your Hogwarts letter, '' his dad smiled, `` Congratulations. ``

`` Thanks, '' Matt whispered.

`` Well, I 'll let you get some more sleep. There 's still an hr or so until you have to go downstairs, '' his dad said as he gave him a hug.

flatness watched his dad walk into the kitchen and closed his eyes once more. He drifted off to sleep again, trying not to call up about what would pass off in an hour.

After what seemed like only a few minutes later, matte woke up in a frigidity sweat with an dread vexation that no potion could ever serve with. He sat up and looked out the window. It was dark, but he did n't need to see the sky to screw that the moon would move up soon.

`` Mum ! '' his phonation cracked. He swallowed hard. The pain always started before the transmutation did. It was awful. He always tried not to cry, but it never worked. He squeezed his oculus shut and tried to keep the weeping from leaking out.

He heard three exercise set of footsteps run into the elbow room and felt his mother 's arms wrap around him. He leaned into her and rested his read/write head on her shoulder.

`` It 's time, '' his dad said quietly.

Matt shakily stood up and his parents helped him stumble towards the basement door. He could get wind Amy 's pace behind them. nobody said a word as they walked down the stairs and towards his shift way.

lustrelessness sat down on the padded story as soon as he got into the room. His chief was spinning and he did n't believe he 'd be able to stomach up much longer anyway. His parents and Amy each gave him a hug and then left the room. They did n't say anything, but there was nothing to say. He 'd done this so many times there was n't really any point in his parents saying anything. He knew they 'd be there in the morning.

The door locked as his parents and Amy left, and lusterlessness let out a aloud sigh as he sat down. This was it. Another full-of-the-moon Sun Myung Moon. There was nothing he could do now but wait.

For twelvemonth, he fought the change. He 'd clench his deal and jaw and try to foreclose the shift, even though he knew it would n't put to work. The only clock time he had n't fought it was the first one, where he had no mind what was going to find. For the second one, he knew what was going to bump. He was only six, but he understood and he fought it with every part of his being. Now, five and a half year later, with five and a half years of cogent evidence that it would n't work, he still fought it.

Matt did n't consume to wait long for the transformation to begin. His worry became unbearable and he felt his abdomen lurch. He learned early on to not try and eat anything beforehand, because it always came back up during the first part of the transformation.

He curled up into a egg and let out a soft groan. He could finger his marrow beating a nautical mile a moment. His respiration was brusk and tug. It felt like he could n't breathe. He always tried not to scream, but that never worked either. He felt his clappers breaking and elongating and hair sprouting everywhere.

He let out a tacky thigh-slapper and clenched his eyes as pain in the ass coerced through his organic structure. No amount of old full moonshine would ever set him for the painful shift. aught helped with it either. His parents had given him so many different potions, but aught decreased the pain.

His brain was always the cobbler's last matter to go. Matt hated that. He wished his mind would go first. Then he would n't consume to remember the actual transformation. He always wished he 'd pass out before the transformation began, but that never happened.

Matt took a few more rally hint and cried out in pain. He sat up and looked at his hands, which were quickly turning into paws of the brute. He felt dizzy. The world was spinning around him and it felt like fog was clouding his thinker. He let out one more thigh-slapper and the world disappeared.

******

The woman chaser slowly stood up and took in his surroundings. It was dark and there was a faint smell of blood and humans lingering in the air. He was also trapped, again. The beast was always trapped. He began to pace around the room and look for an escape road. It was n't there. There was never an escape cock itinerary.

The savage stood up on his hind legs and pointed his snout towards the ceiling. He let out a long howl and then glared at the opposite wall. He got back down on all Little Joe and charged at it, slamming his head into the abnormally lenient rampart. He stepped back and repeated the process again and again.

He was alone. Alone and trapped. Every single wide moon, the wolf was alone and stuck in the pocket-sized padded room. He wanted to get out. He wanted to get out and discover the citizenry he could faintly smack beyond the walls.

However, there was no way out. No issue how many times the brute rammed his head into the wall, he could not separate it. Eventually, he sat down in the heart of the room and howled once more. He then proceeded to seize with teeth at his own dead body to ease the urge to attack something.

******

mat cracked his eyes subject and tried to swipe his head. A stabbing bother fled through his head teacher and he dropped it back down onto the embellish floor. He closed his eyes and tried to focus on breathing. Each short, travail hint suffering. He could n't even figure out which percentage of his organic structure hurt the worse. Everything hurt. From the top of his head to his toes.

`` Mum ? '' he said hoarsely. His articulation was little more than a whisper. He knew there was no way his mother could hear him, but he called her name anyway.

The door clicked a short piece later, but for mat it felt like an eternity. Whoever came in the room made no sound as they walked across the mattress covered floor. They put a cloak over him and then picked him up. A undulation of dizziness come over him as he was lifted up.

`` It 's ok, I 've got you, '' his dad whispered.

Matt was hardly aware of being carried up to his elbow room and he passed out on the way.

The next thing he knew, he was laying in his soft bed with layers of mantle on top of him. He could experience the warm sun shining through the window. He opened his middle slowly and blinked as they adjusted to the brightness.

His body still ached despite the potions he knew his parents had given him. His head was throbbing dully as well. worsened yet, he was exhausted. He knew he had already slept for minute, but it felt like he had n't slept in days.

Who was he kidding ? How was he going to go to Hogwarts ? How would he manage full moons when he was by himself ? He could n't even get up when he transformed back the next good morning. His parents always had to carry him back to his room.

His parents. Matt felt a jolt in his stomach as he realized that they would n't be there every to the full moon when he was in school day. They had been there for every good moon he had ever endured. They took precaution of him the day of and the days following. They got him his potions and healed all his injuries.

He hated to admit it, but he was scared about doing it by himself. He knew he should n't be ; he was eleven years old for merlin 's interest. Eleven-year-olds should not be afraid of going to school and being away from their parents.

It was a practical issue, he assured himself. That was all. He could n't physically deal with total moons by himself. That was why he was worried about going to school. It was n't like he could n't deal with being away from home.

Then there was the topic of his classmates. What if they found out ? It was n't like he could filch away for the full moon Moon and be back in his dormitory the next morning before his roommates woke up. He 'd be in the Hospital Wing for at least two years. He doubted he 'd be able to go to class the day of the full moon and he usually needed two days to retrieve. That was three twenty-four hours of missed classes, but more importantly, it was three 24-hour interval of disappearances to explain. What was he going to say ? People did n't normally get sick that much.

It was a stupid estimate, he thought, going to school. He bit his lip and tried to kibosh the binge from welling in his center. Why did n't his parents just home shoal him ? It would be easier. They were both intimate in most vista of magic trick. If his parents had just decided to home school him, they could have stayed in Australia. Then Amy would have been happier.

No, they could n't accept stayed. He sighed. Not after his dad lost his job and all the constabulary restricting the right of lycanthrope had been passed. They were originally going to move so he could go to school. But then his dad lost his job. It was n't entirely Matt 's shift that they moved, was it ? Not if his dad needed another job ....

It was his fault his dad lost his job, though. If he had n't gotten bitten, his dad would n't have lost his job. So, for all purport and purposes, his family had moved because of him. He could n't not go to shoal after all they 'd done for him. He 'd just have to suck it up and deal with it, no matter how terrifying the medical prognosis was.

`` Matt, are you awake ? '' Amy peeked her headspring into his room.

lustrelessness quickly rubbed his eyes and turned to look at her. `` Yeah. ``

Amy gave a small smile and walked into the room. She set a goblet down on the bedside table and then sat on the human foot of the bed.

`` How are you ? '' she asked quietly.

`` All- '' he cut himself off and looked at Amy 's concerned expression. Ever since she had first seen him after a transformation, she had this uncanny way of knowing when something was bothering him. He was n't sure how she did it, but somehow she managed to get him to tell her what was wrong.

It was kind of unknown since Amy normally had quite the pettishness and was very raring. Their mum had once told mat that she took after his grandmother, but Amy would never hold to it. The two of them did what they wanted and often disregarded other people 's emotions.

Amy used to be a lot like that with flatness, too. When they were unseasoned, their parents insisted on keeping Amy away from the house during entire Moon. She hated it and resented their parents for keeping her out of the eyelet. She really had no idea what went on during wide moons.

Then life as they knew it fell apart in Australia and Amy began to gain what went on. She did resent lusterlessness for calendar month about having to move, but eventually got used to Hogwarts. Then, the first of all full moon after her quaternary yr, she stayed at domicile during the full moon and saw matte afterwards.

Amy never told lustrelessness what she had thought of seeing him after a transformation, but her legal action spoke more than words would have. She stayed by his incline after every full moon that summer. A few weeks after that start full moon of the summer, she announced that she was going to get a therapist and hoped to divulge a version of the wolfsbane Potion that would crop for Matt.

matt had been a little shocked when he heard this, but not incredibly surprised. As far back as he could recall, Amy had enjoyed experimenting with potions. She was also an avid star gazer and loved Astronomy. If anyone could hail up with a better variation about that potion, it was Amy. She had the accomplishment, pursuit, and motivation to do it.

`` Actually, '' his vocalization caught in his throat, `` I 'm not that bully. ``

Amy crawled up the bed and laid down next to him, her mouth turning down in a scowl. She grabbed the potion off the table and handed it to him. `` What hurts ? You should adopt this potion, it 'll serve. ``

`` It 's not that, '' Matt swallowed the potion in one gulping, `` I mean, my capitulum hurts but no worse than common. It 's, '' he paused, `` It 's Hogwarts. I 'm just not trusted if I should go ... '' his voice trailed off.

Amy put her arm around Matt 's shoulders and looked at him sadly. `` Why not ? ``

`` This, '' he muttered, `` This probably sounds stupid person, but I do n't conceive I can do it without Mum and Dad. ``

`` It 's not stupid, '' Amy said quietly, `` They 've always been there for every total moon. But I think you 're amiss. You can do it without them. ``

`` How ? '' mat 's vox wavered, `` I ca n't even get back up to my room without them ? How in the name of Merlin will I get from that shack in Hogsmeade back to the castling ? ``

`` The nurse, '' Amy sighed, `` You 're forgetting about the nanny. Madam Pomfrey. You 've met her, have n't you ? ``

`` I think so, '' lusterlessness nodded, `` But I hardly know her. ``

`` Well, I do, '' Amy said, `` And she 's one of the prissy grownup at Hogwarts. She 'll help. And I 'll be there too. I 'll be there for your full first year. ``

`` And you 'll be there ? Can you go to the shack with Madam Pomfrey ? ``

`` Of course of instruction, '' Amy nodded, `` And I 'll stay at the Hospital extension with you except when I 'm in socio-economic class. ``

lusterlessness nodded. He felt a little better knowing that Amy would be there with him. She could practically do everything in guild to heal his hurt after the full moon. Their parents had been teaching her ever since she was fifteen and she had actually been performing them ever since she turned seventeen. But he still felt anxious about the unhurt thing.

`` I know you 'll still miss them, '' Amy said quietly, `` And there 's nothing wrong with that. I was so homesick during first year and I did n't stimulate to plow with turning into a masher once a calendar month. I imagine that 'll pull in it even worse. ``

Matt turned to his Sister and laughed. He sort of liked how she just stated what was true and never tried to relent it.

`` Yeah, probably, '' he replied.

`` But you 'll get used to it, '' Amy assured him, `` Soon you 'll make friends and get into mischief like half of Victoire 's cousins do. ``

Matt shrugged. Making protagonist was another thing he was worried about. He did n't really have many Friend. He occasionally spent metre with some of his dad 's coworkers'kids, but did n't know them very well.

`` If I make any booster, '' he said.

`` You will, '' Amy said.

`` But they wo n't like me if they find out who I am, '' Matt replied.

`` They wo n't ascertain out, '' Amy said adamantly, `` You 'll make hatful of acquaintance. Victoire said a few of her cousin are starting this year and they 're certainly to be in Gryffindor like you will be. ``

flatness had only met Victoire a few metre, but from what he could enjoin, she was really skillful. flatness only hoped her cousin-german were as well.

`` I guess that would be just, '' he yawned, `` What time is it ? ``

Amy glanced at her watch. `` Just after one. I should let you sleep. ``

Matt nodded. `` Ok. Thanks. '' He was pretty tired. He did n't normally own such farseeing discourse with Amy so soon after the to the full moon. He usually slept until dinner party time.

`` I 'll be back later, '' Amy gave him a gentle hug, grabbed the empty potion bottle, and quietly left the room.

Matt rolled over in bed and huddled under the many cover. He closed his oculus feeling a bit better about going to Hogwarts, but still worried.


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A/N : Thanks to St. Luke, Moonylupin, and XDNLxtlz99 for the reviews !
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter or Jared Joseph Campbell 's songs.

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And she knows that this is substantial


It 's not something that she 's made up in her head
And there 's something that she feels but she has n't found the countersign
~It 's Love, Jared Campbell


Eleven-year-old Amanda Genevieve Tagger smiled to herself as she closed her Word of God. She rolled over on her bed and set the it on her bedside tabular array. Her bedside board was stacked high with at to the lowest degree ten books, nearly of which Amanda had already read.

Amanda had always enjoyed reading. Ever since she was a footling young lady, book had been some of her best friends. They were majuscule company when she was sad or bored or just wanted to escape into a different world for a patch. Best of all, al-Qur'an never made fun of her.

Amanda had always been shy and she was the outset to include it. She did n't have very many friends and kids her age tended to stay on away from her. This was most potential because strange thing always happened around her.

She was only five when she first realized that she was dissimilar. Amanda, her older sister, Jen, who was nine at the meter, and a few of her baby 's friends were playing outdoor. They decided to dally hide-and-seek and Amanda climbed the self-aggrandizing Tree in their backyard and hid amongst the limb. Jen, who was 'it', had the hardest meter finding her. In fact, Jen never found her. Amanda did n't get out the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree until their mom called them in for a snack.

That was when it happened. Amanda 's foot caught on one of the offset and she lost her grip. She fell what must have been twenty or thirty pes out of that maple tree, hitting legion arm on her way down.

When she was a simple five feet from the ground, she suddenly stopped falling. Then, she glided lightly to the priming, and landed softly on her base. Amanda looked around and saw Jen staring open-mouthed at her. Their mother, who had seen Amanda falling, ran from the sign and checked her over. She was completely fine, save for a few minor kale and bruise. No one knew why it had happened, but Amanda 's mother said an angel must cause been looking out for her that day.

Whatever it was, Amanda knew she was dissimilar that day. It was only the first. unknown matter had happened to her ever since. When she was six and the course bully stole her cookie at lunch, new I appeared out of thin air in front of her. When she was seven and forgot to do her maths homework, it somehow did itself while sitting in her backpack.

A small, relatively harmless tornado had somehow descended upon a few boys who were chasing her when she was eight. That incident was what caused most of the other Thomas Kid her age to steer clear of her.

There was one little girl who did not care that unknown affair happened around Amanda. Jamie House, Amanda 's skilful friend since Kindergarten, never cared about the unusual incidents. She actually thought they were funny. Amanda and Jamie were inseparable at school.

However, Jamie was currently spending a few weeks with her grandparents in Scotland. Without Jamie 's company, Amanda had spent most of her clock time reading. There was n't really anything else to do. Jen was xv and the go thing she wanted to do was hang out with her eleven-year-old sister. Amanda 's little blood brother, Max, was eight and all he wanted to do was tantalize his bike in the empty lot down the road with the early neighborhood boys.

Amanda was left with her books for company, not that she really minded. She was getting a bit restless, though. She stood up opened her bedroom door. Maybe Jen was n't on the data processor and Amanda would be able-bodied to go online. Jamie managed to get on trice messager ever so often at her grandparents'family and Amanda had talked to her a few clip over the past week.

The doorbell rang just as Amanda was leaving her room.

`` Amanda ! '' Jen shouted from her room, `` Could you get that ? ``

`` Sure, '' Amanda said as she passed Jen 's room. She peeked inside and saw that Jen was in the mental process of straightening her get off brown pilus. Jen had straightened Amanda 's honey blonde hair a few times, but Amanda actually preferred it with its natural tenuous wave. Jen hated her own curly hair, though.

Amanda ran down the step and towards the door. She pulled it open and saw a man wearing the strangest outfit she had ever seen anyone wear on a day that was not Hallowe'en. It looked like a total darkness gradation robe. The man himself looked relatively sane, though. His blonde hair was neatly combed and he smiled when Amanda opened the door.

`` how-do-you-do, '' he greeted her, `` Are your parents home ? ``

`` Er, '' Amanda began, `` I think so. Are you selling something ? '' Her parents hated door to door salesmen. Amanda was n't exactly sure where her parents were, but she doubted they 'd require to be interrupted to take heed to individual trying to deal something.

The man laughed. `` No, not at all. ``

`` Wait right here, '' Amanda said and went to find her parents, `` Mum ! Dad ! There 's some feller at the door who wants to talk to you ! ``

`` What 's he selling ? '' Mrs. tagging program shouted from the kitchen.

`` nothing ! '' Amanda replied.

Mrs. Tagger, a abruptly, plank woman with flecks of grey in her drear brown hair walked out of the kitchen and followed Amanda to the door.

`` Can I help you ? '' she asked the man.

`` Yes, '' the man replied, `` I 'm a teacher at a private school and I 'm here to inform you that your daughter has been accepted. ``

`` Jen ? '' Mrs. Tagger asked, `` I was n't aware she applied to any individual schools. ``

`` No, '' the man shook his chief, `` Not Jen. Amanda. ``

Amanda gaped at the man and then turned to her female parent, who was now frowning. Amanda had n't applied to any buck private schools. Why would she ? She had already gotten into the secondary school she was attending in the pin.

`` I know Amanda has n't applied to anymore schools, '' Mrs. tagging program said.

`` This is n't one she applied for, '' the man said quietly, `` Her name has been down since she was born. ``

Amanda was stunned. What was this about ? How could her figure have been down for a school since she was born ?

`` Could I come in ? '' the man asked.

`` I think you 'd improve, '' Mrs tagging program said in barely more than a whisper.

The man stepped inside the house and followed Mrs. Tagger into the den. Amanda followed and sat down on a chairperson while the strange man took the sofa.

`` William Henry ! '' Mrs. Tagger shouted down the basement stairs, `` You 'd better come upstairs ! ``

A minute later a marvelous man with a messy shock of blonde hair on his psyche walked into the room with Mrs. Tagger.

`` My husband, Henry, '' Mrs. Tagger replied, `` And my name is Sarah. Who are you ? ``

`` Professor Neville Longbottom, '' the man replied as he stood up and shook each of my parents'hands.

`` prof ? '' William Henry raised his eyebrows.

`` He told me Amanda has been accepted to a private schooltime. One that her name 's been down for since parentage, '' Sarah explained, `` Did you sign her up without telling me ? ``

`` No, '' Henry shook his head.

`` I 'll explain everything if you 'll just sit down, '' Neville said.

William Henry and Sarah nodded and they sat down on the couch Neville had just vacated.

`` I teach at a boarding schoolhouse in Scotland called Hogwarts- ''

Henry snorted and Sarah glared at him. `` Sorry, '' he muttered.

Neville grinned. `` I get that chemical reaction a lot. Anyway, Hogwarts is not an ordinary school. It is a school of magic. Mr. and Mrs. tagger, your girl is a witch. ``

Amanda was happy she had been sitting down. If she had n't, she surely would have fainted. She stared in seismic disturbance at Neville. What did he mean, hex ? Amanda had read many stories about witches. Some had good beldam and others had bad hag. Which witch was she ?

How could she even be a witch ? beldame were n't actual. They were made up to put up entertainment. They could n't actually exist. Magic did n't exist.

`` What are you getting at ? '' Henry said defensively, `` If this is some sort of prank, it 's not comical. ``

`` It 's not a prank, '' Neville said calmly, `` Magic does exist. Witches and wizards have been hiding their world for generations. I teach at Britain 's only school of conjuration. ``

`` What do you teach ? '' Joseph Henry asked.

`` Herbology. The study of magic plant. ``

`` Prove it, '' henry said, `` Pull a rabbit out of your hat or something. ``

Neville grinned and pulled out his wand. Amanda stared at it. A veridical magic wand. Just like the ones she 'd read about in books.

`` Accio pillow, '' Neville pointed his wand at one of the pillows next to Henry. It soared through the air and landed neatly in Neville 's hand.

`` Where 's the strand ? '' Henry stood up and grabbed the pillow. He searched all over it for a string, but did n't get one.

`` No drawing string, '' Neville smiled. He took the pillow back and pointed his wand at it. He muttered something else and the pillow turned into a tea kettle.

`` That is brilliant, '' Amanda grinned, `` Can I learn how to do that ? ``

`` When you are one-time, yes, '' Neville replied.

`` What else can you do ? '' Amanda asked excitedly.

`` Brew potions, various good luck charm, disappear and reappear in a new place- ''

`` Seriously ? '' Amanda gaped, `` Can you present me that ? ``

`` Sure, '' Neville replied. He disappeared from the way with a loud scissure and then was back a few secondment later.

`` What the bloody Hades was that ? '' Jen ran into the room with her tomentum partially consecutive and partially curly.

`` Language, Jennifer, '' Sarah warned.

`` I 'm a Wiccan, '' Amanda grinned, `` I can do magic. ``

`` What ? ! '' Jen shouted and sat down on the good chair, clearly intent on staying in the room despite her hair.

`` delay, waiting ! '' Henry shouted, `` What if we choose not to let her attend this lieu ? ``

`` You have to, Dad ! '' Amanda shouted.

`` Henry, are you really so gullible ? You ca n't honestly think there is a school day of legerdemain ! '' Sarah shouted.

`` Magic ? '' Jen asked, `` Like pulling rabbits out of hats ? ``

`` Of grade it exists, Mum ! '' Amanda told her.

Sarah shook her point. `` No. Amanda, you just want it to exist. Magic is n't real. It 's fantasy. ``

`` It does, '' Neville said quietly, `` Can you remember a time Amanda has done something that could n't be explained ? Any time where she should hold been hurt and then somehow was n't ? ``

Sarah 's face went pale Edward White and she turned to Henry. `` Yes, '' she whispered, `` Many times. ``

`` It can be explained, '' Neville replied, `` It 's legerdemain. ``

`` But what if we do n't let her go ? '' Henry asked again.

`` That 's hunky-dory. But she wo n't ever learn to ascertain her trick and she will preserve to cause strange thing to happen. ``

`` I 'm going, '' Amanda crossed her subdivision on her chest.

`` sword lily to pick up it, '' Neville reached into his, what could only be described as a cloak, and pulled out a letter. He handed it to Amanda.

It was addressed to her. She turned it over and carefully opened it. She unfolded it and began to read it aloud.

There was another composition of paper that had a inclination of supplies written on it, including a cauldron, sceptre, and spell books. Amanda had about a million questions. Where could she buy a really verge ? Had they gotten the platform wrong ? There could n't be a Platform 9 3/4, could there ? What did the varsity letter mean, broomsticks ? Did witches really turn on around on brooms like they do in Good Book ?

`` I 'm habitation ! '' the movement door slammed shut and Max ran into the elbow room, his dark hairsbreadth disheveled and his typeface coated in dirt. He stopped at the sight of Neville and grinned. `` Nice costume, but Halloween 's not for a few calendar month. ``

`` It 's not a costume, '' Jen said, `` He 's a wizard. He teaches at a shoal of magic and he 's here to severalize us that Amanda is a witch. ``

`` That is bright, '' Max grinned, `` Am I one, too ? ``

`` You 'll line up out the summer you are eleven, '' Neville answered.

`` Max, please go up the stairs and clean house yourself up, '' Sarah groaned, `` You 're getting mud all over the carpet. ``

`` Oh, sorry, '' Max turned and ran up the stairs.

`` Mum, Dad, '' Amanda began, `` You 've got to let me go to Hogwarts. This explains everything ! I want to watch how to control my magic. I wo n't be the unearthly girl at Hogwarts. ``

Henry and Sarah shared a spirit. `` I suppose you 're rightfield, '' Henry sighed, `` We 'll let you go, so long as this professor explains everything about magic to us. ``

`` I will, '' Neville nodded, `` Actually, if you 're not in use today, I could take you to Diagon Alley. That 's the shopping area where you will be able to purchase everything Amanda needs for Hogwarts. It 's in London. ``

`` We 're not occupy, '' Henry said, `` We 'll just wait for Max. ``

Amanda grinned as she reread her letter over and over again. She still could n't believe it. A crone. She was a rattling witch ! Amanda always knew she was dissimilar, but she never imagined it would be like this. She pinched herself to make sure it was real. It was. She, Amanda Tagger, was a witch. It was like she had fallen into one of her books.

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Days are unlike then they were before
And we both exchange
It 's only getting better
~Only Getting bettor, Jared Campbell


Eleven-year-old John the Evangelist Malcolm Brickston was running around in a expectant rophy as fast as he possibly could. He, along with two other male child, was spinning the roundabout in the common across the street from his sign as fasting as he could. A fourthly boy was on the merry-go-round shrieking in delight.

It was a daily thing for John, playing with the other son in his neighborhood at the park. They particularly liked spinning each other until they felt sick on the merry-go-round. Other activities included trying to agitate each other off the imp bars and jumping off of the swinging. They often spent all day doing this, until one of their mothers called them inside.

Gospel According to John had fun playing with the other son from his locality even though he was quite unlike from them. St. John was a wizard and all of his neighborhood friends were Muggles. privy 's family was the lonesome wizarding family living in a neighborhood of Muggles. He did n't mind, of course. He was actually glad he lived in a neighborhood replete of the great unwashed to work with, rather than in the heart of nowhere like so many former wizards did. Most of his full cousin did n't have any close neighbor.

Without the locality boys around, the only people John would receive had to dally with were his Sister. trick had three of them and while he loved them, they got on his nerves. They were all younger than him and drove him mental on a day by day basis.

Despite having so many Muggle champion, bathroom could not wait to get to Hogwarts where he could run across other wizards his age. He knew a dyad witches and wizards his age whose parents worked with his dad, but he did n't see them too often. Then there were his cousin-german, but they were all younger than him.

John had been trying not to think about his Hogwarts letter, which he knew would be arriving soon. Thinking about it just made the time go by slower. So, he tried to get his judgment off of it by goofing off at the playground.

`` Enough, enough ! '' the boy on the merry-go-round shouted.

Saint John the Apostle and the former two boys stepped back and watched it slow down. Once it had almost stopped, the boy jumped off and stumbled around, falling on the ground. St. John the Apostle and the others crowded around him.

`` My spell ! '' trick shouted as the dizzy boy sat up.

`` Johnny ! '' someone shouted from the entry to the park.

John turned his drumhead towards the interpreter and groaned. It was his female parent. The former day she had made him look out over his niggling sis when they played at the park and he really did n't need to do that again. But his sisters were n't with his mum, so maybe she wanted something else.

`` What ? '' trick shouted.

`` You need to make out home now ! '' she shouted back.

John groaned again and reluctantly said goodbye to his friends. He hated it when his mum called him home without explaining why.

`` Why do I have to go habitation now ? '' whoremonger asked as he reached his mum, `` It 's not dinner party time. ``

`` Your alphabetic character arrived, '' she said and began to walk across the street.

That was probably the only thing she could make said to make John no longer take care leaving his friends. He grinned and ran to catch up with his mum. Now it was official, he was going to Hogwarts !

toilet 's sign was in its usual State of bedlam when he entered it. Not two seconds after they stepped in the door, his endorse unseasoned Sister, Gemma, ran up them screaming about how Amelia had taken her toy. Gemma was six and Amelia, his untested sister, was five.

At any given moment there were probably five or six little kids at trick 's house. He had a lot of cousins who were all younger than him. His female parent was a stay at home mum, but a few of his aunts worked outside the rest home. They often dropped their kids off at John 's home while they were at study. Or when they had to go shopping. It was just another reason why John enjoyed spending his free time outside, away from the minuscule kids.

That day, all his minuscule Sister were home, of course of instruction. Plus, his cousin Isabelle, who was ten, and Isabelle 's three-year-old sister, Alyssa.

`` Your Aunt Pam is foodstuff shopping, '' his mother, Jan, replied as she picked up Gemma.

King John nodded and stepped over a down of Wendy beldame dolls that Ashtyn, his nine-year-old sister must have left in the doorway.

`` Ashtyn, peck up your plaything ! '' Jan shouted as she carried Gemma back into the den.

Ashtyn and Isabelle came running through the sign of the zodiac, scooped up the dolls, and ran back to wherever they came from.

`` Where 's my letter ? '' John asked as Jan set Gemma back down on the floor.

`` It 's here somewhere, '' Jan said as she rifled through a pot of mail, `` I just had it a 2nd ago. hang on. ``

whoremaster sighed as he leaned against the wall. He could n't wait to get to Hogwarts. Then he would n't sustain to get by with all his petty sisters and first cousin anymore. He would be in a place where he was one of the young people. That rarely happened. John had always been the honest-to-god, the one who was expected to be mature.

`` Mum ! '' Ashtyn shrieked from upstairs, `` I think John put a dung bomb calorimeter in the toilet again ! ``

John grinned. He may be expected to be age, but he was n't. Pulling joke was one of his favored matter to do and the dung bomb calorimeter in the toilet never got old, especially when Ashtyn was on the receiving end of it.

Jan sent him a withering look. `` I cringe to think about the amount of owls I 'll be getting from Professor Kendrick about the maleficence you get into next year, '' she sighed, `` Ashtyn, just flush it like usual ! ``

`` Mum, she wo n't devote it back ! '' Gemma whined.

Jan groaned and walked over to the two girl, who were still fighting over a farce dragon. Jan wrenched it from Amelia 's manpower and stuck it up on a high shelf. She continued searching for John 's varsity letter while Gemma and Amelia complained.

`` I think I found it, '' john said as he bent down.

Three-year-old Alyssa was holding a lacerated envelope in her script and giggling playfully. John grabbed it from her and she burst out crying. Jan picked her up as John the Evangelist took off for his bedchamber, the only bambino free place in the total house.

The letter of the alphabet was n't completely destroyed, much to John 's sculptural relief. He had caught Alyssa before she was able to do a lot of damage. The envelope was completely illegible, but the varsity letter inside was spared from tears and baby slobber.

John Lackland tossed aside the moistness gasbag and unfolded the varsity letter. He grinned widely as he read it, even though he already knew the gist of what it said.

He was in ! John laid down on his bed and stared up at his ceiling. Of line he was in. There was never any dubiety. Everyone in his entire house had gone to Hogwarts for as far back as anyone could remember. As far as he knew, his kin did n't have any Squibs.

John had been looking forward to Hogwarts for a very recollective time. His parents had all sort of stories to tell of the office. Although, their education had been interrupted due to the terminal battle and Voldemort 's defeat. They had only been first years at the fourth dimension and Hogwarts had closed for a yr in parliamentary law for it to be rebuilt. But after that, his parents had had a somewhat convention education.

There were all sorts of things that John was looking forward to. The Sorting ( although his parents refused to separate him how it was done ), the fete, exploding potions, Peeves, Quidditch, Hogsmeade trips when he got older, the Gryffindor park elbow room. lavatory was for certain he 'd get into Gryffindor even though his mum had been a Hufflepuff. His dad was a Gryffindor and everyone said he took after his dad.

John 's dad, Jeff Brickston, had been the Hogwarts practical joker when he was in school. privy could n't await to pull some pranks of his own. His dad had promised to get him well supplied with stuff from Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes, although his mum was n't too well-chosen about it.

John remained in his way for the rest period of the afternoon. A glance out the windowpane told him that his Muggle acquaintance had left the park. It would have been boring for him to go back. Instead, he stayed in his way and pulled out his old but trusty Nimbus Two G and One.

The broom had been his dad 's when he was at Hogwarts. john grabbed a bottle of down and began to rub it into the worn wood. Jeff had given it to trick when he was only five and john had been flying on it ever since.

If John had to blame the one thing he was most looking forward to at Hogwarts, it would be Quidditch. bathroom had been flying for as long as he could call back and he had hopes of making it onto the Gryffindor Quidditch squad. If he was sorted into Gryffindor, that is. He just hoped that there was a beater post open at the right time. He doubted he 'd get chosen as a beater in his second class due to the fact that beaters were generally quite a lot freehanded than the relief of the players. But if a beater side opened when he was in fourth or fifth year, he just might make it.

Isabelle and Alyssa had left by the time John left his elbow room. He wandered into the kitchen and found his mum preparing dinner. Ashtyn, Gemma, and Amelia were 'helping'.

`` Can we go to Diagon Alley tomorrow ? '' John asked as he grabbed a carrot out of a bowl.

`` I do n't know, '' Jan replied, `` Your Aunt Jodie is working tomorrow and I have to watch Stephanie as well as the twins. I do n't particularly want to sweep three extra Kyd to Diagon bowling alley especially when two are babies. It may bear to wait until the weekend. And please do n't eat the carrots. ``

Gospel According to John sighed and sat down at the table. He did n't want to wait until the weekend. He wished his mum did n't check all of his petty cousins all the time.

`` I 'm house ! '' somebody shouted from the den.

St. John jumped up from his electric chair and ran into the den. He saw his dad brushing ash off of his shiny special K healer robe. toilet grinned as he saw his great-great gramps standing just behind his dad.

`` Gramps ! '' John shouted, `` What are you doing here ? ``

`` Went to Mungo 's, '' he replied, `` Had to get this dang hip checked out. Then Jeffrey here invited me to dinner. ``

John the Evangelist 's great-great grandad, Zander Brickston, was over one hundred age old but was usually healthy as a hippogriff. He was a bit senile and forgetful at times, but it never bothered him. He was often the life sentence of the company, too, despite his age. John loved him.

`` I got my Hogwarts letter ! '' whoremonger said excitedly as he pulled the letter out of his pocket.

`` Congratulations, '' Jeff grinned and gave toilet a one-armed hug as he set his bag down.

`` Well done, Johnny-Boy ! '' Zander gave him a surprisingly strong clap on the back, `` Great place, Hogwarts. Charles Herbert Best long time of my life, except for the metre I found myself in professor Dippet 's spot. You 'd best hitch out of there. ``

`` Professor Dippet 's been deadened for years, grandfather, '' St. John the Apostle laughed.

`` Then you stay out of worry with whoever 's the headmaster now, '' Zander said and lumbered off into the kitchen, `` Where 's my girls ? ``

dinner was lively that evening, as it always was when Zander was there. He dominated the conversation with floor of his own days at Hogwarts. John was sort of surprised he remembered them so well. He told of the prison term he and his friends went for a swimming in the Black Lake at midnight during the full moon in January. The nurse had not been pleased when they showed up at the infirmary wing with slight cause of hypothermia. She scolded them and told them if they were stupid enough to swim in the lake during January, they could at least use cold-repellent charms on themselves.

`` Where would the fun be in that ? '' Zander laughed as he finished the story.

Other narration included the many caper he pulled on the Slytherins. 'Pranking 's a Brickston tradition ,'he told can solemnly. The times he snuck out of the castle and into Hogsmeade. The metre he fell asleep during his account of magic trick O.W.L. ( `` What do they carry, when Binns makes you fall asleep during social class ? '' ) Sneaking about the castle at Night with whatever girlfriend he had at the meter. Jan had to close him up at that point and she and Jeff began to relay their own Hogwarts stories.

John was, if it was possible, even more excited about Hogwarts after hearing all of the write up. He wanted to swim in the Black Lake in the middle of winter. He wanted to sneak out of school to go to Hogsmeade. He wanted to paint half his cheek red and the other half Au for the Gryffindor-Slytherin Quidditch match.

John did n't be intimate how he was going to be able to wait two Clarence Shepard Day Jr. until Sat to go to Diagon back street, let alone hold back the month and a half until he 'd be able to actually go to Hogwarts. It seemed so far away. He had been waiting years to go to Hogwarts, but he had a feeling the shoemaker's last month and a half would drag by even dim than those yr had.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

Cause there 's so much yet to see, that I have n't seen yet
And there 's so much air to breathe, yeah
I want to take it in
~Take It In, Jared Campbell


Ten-year-old Rose Elizabeth Weasley put the end of her calamus to her mouth and chewed it thoughtfully as she looked up from her lambskin. She smiled and dipped the quill into her pot of ink and then wrote 'Elandra John Harvard took a deep breathing time and sat down on the three-legged stool'onto the parchment. rose wine set down the quill and picked up the parchment. She looked at it for a here and now and then set it down again.

The parchment was a account. A fib about a Muggle-born at Hogwarts. Ever since Rose was petty, she liked coming up with level. She used to just tell them to her parents and little sidekick, but then she got sure-enough and began writing them down.

blush wine had spent the whole sunup writing about Elandra. She supposed it was because blush wine herself was going to Hogwarts soon and that was really all she could recall about. Although she tried to come up up with early level ideas, she just could n't. All the approximation were about Hogwarts. It was just about the only matter that could sort of keep her idea off her own Hogwarts letter.

rosebush had been waiting for the letter all summertime. She wished that Hogwarts would ship them out in June instead of the end of July. The end of July was sort of late. That only gave a calendar month and a half to machinate to go to school. Rose had been preparing since May, though. She knew she would get her letter this summertime, as she would be turning eleven on August twentieth.

Her dad had located her mum 's old proboscis in the attic and charmed an engraving of 'REW'to exchange the 'HJG'that stood for Hermione Jean Granger. The trunk currently sat on the floor in rosiness 's room. The sole thing in it was a cauldron that her dad had found in the attic as well. It was a perfectly honest cauldron, so neither of her parents saw any need to buy her a new one. rose wine agreed. She kind of liked the old cauldron. There was something to be said about brewing potions in a cauldron that was older than you were.

`` Rose ! '' individual banged on her door.

Rose groaned and got up. It was Victor-Marie Hugo, her nine-year-old brother. He probably wanted to play Quidditch or something. rose did n't particularly like Quidditch. She preferred reading material or pretty practically anything that she remained on the primer to do.

`` What ? '' rosebush asked when she opened the room access, `` I do n't want to act as Quidditch. ``

`` I was n't going to ask you, '' Hugo muttered, `` You 're no fun to play Quidditch with anyway. I 'd rather just ask St. James and Al to play. I just wanted to give you this. The post just arrived. ``

Victor Hugo thrust an gasbag into blush wine 's hand and she caught a glimpse of the Hogwarts crest on the cachet. The breath caught in her chest as she grabbed it. `` Thanks, Hugo, '' she grinned.

Hugo made no motion to leave as rose shakily began to open the envelope. `` Hurry up ! '' he said.

`` It 's my letter, '' pink wine replied and pulled it out of the envelope. Hugo peered over her berm as she began to learn it.

rosiness grinned looked at Victor-Marie Hugo. `` It 's official ! I 'm going to Hogwarts ! ``

`` And I 'll get the house to myself, '' Hugo grinned, `` I can go through your stuff and you wo n't be able to do anything about it. ``

`` Mum and Dad will be here, '' Rose rolled her eyes, `` And you better not go through my poppycock. ``

`` You wo n't be able to do anything about it ! '' Hugo gleefully ran off towards his room.

pink wine turned the other way and went downstairs in rescript to determine her mum. She eventually found her in the library, pouring over legion books.

`` It came, '' Rose grinned and sat down across the table from Hermione.

Hermione looked up and smiled. `` extolment ! '' She leaned over and kissed Rose 's forehead.

`` What are you working on ? '' pink wine asked.

`` Oh, work stuff, '' Hermione said as she closed the Bible, `` It can look. Let me see that varsity letter ! ``

Rose handed her female parent the letter and waited while she read it. Hermione handed it back to her and smiled even wider. `` I ca n't trust you 're going to Hogwarts already. clip has flown by ! My picayune girl, all grown up. ``

`` I ca n't hold back, Mum, '' blush wine replied.

`` We 'll have some shopping to do, '' Hermione said as she stood up.

`` Ron ! Hermione ! Anyone here ? '' someone shouted from the living room.

`` Uncle Harry ! '' Rose shouted as she ran out of the depository library and into the living room.

Harry 's look was floating amongst super acid flame in the open fireplace and Rose grinned when she saw him. `` Hi Uncle Harry ! shot what ? I got my missive ! ``

`` Brilliant, '' Harry grinned, `` Al got his, too. Are your parents home ? ``

`` Dad 's workings at the Jack London shop, but he 's supposed to be back soon, '' Rose replied, `` And Mum's- ''

`` Right here, '' Hermione said as she came into the room, `` Hi Harry. ``

`` Hey, Hermione, '' Harry said, `` We were going to go to Diagon Alley after lunch. Al got his letter a few hours ago. Want to come ? ``

`` That sounds well, '' Hermione agreed, `` We 'll meet you there around 1:30. Ron should be back from Weasleys'by then. ``

`` See you then, '' Harry said.

`` Bye, '' Hermione replied as Harry 's head disappeared and the super C flames died down.

******

A few minute later rosiness was standing with her family line in front of Gringotts. She tapped her foot and sighed. They were waiting for the ceramist, who were never on meter for anything. rose 's parents were n't known for being on time either, but rosebush had hurried them along.

`` Sorry we 're previous ! '' Harry shouted as he ran towards the Weasleys.

`` William James would n't wake up, '' Albus grinned at Rose.

`` What else is new ? '' rosebush smirked.

`` Where to first ? '' Harry asked.

`` Olivander 's ! '' Albus announced.

`` Flourish and Blotts ! '' Rose said excitedly. She had been there numerous clip, but never to buy books for school.

`` You 're mental, rosiness, '' James laughed, `` I say we go to Quality Quidditch Supplies ! ``

rose rolled her eyes. James was the one who was mental. He spent more metre at Quality Quidditch Supplies than all the other stores in Diagon Alley combined. Half the clip he did n't even buy anything. He just gawked at the broom handle he wished he could have.

`` Eyelops ! '' Lily shouted.

`` You 're not even going to Hogwarts, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I do n't care, '' Lily huffed.

`` Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, '' Victor-Marie Hugo suggested.

`` Then it 's settled, '' Harry grinned, `` We 're going to the pill roller first. ``

blush wine groaned. The Apothecary was possibly her least preferent shop class, future to timbre Quidditch supply. It did n't surprise her that Harry chose that memory, though. He always did that when they argued. rosebush 's parents did the same thing.

They finally made it to fanfare and Blott 's, after the pill roller and Madam Malkin 's. rose was the offset one through the doorway and immediately started browsing. She did n't know where everyone else was going in the store, but she did n't care.

Flourish and Blott 's had always fascinated rose wine, ever since she was little. There were always at least five ledger she wanted to buy whenever she went in. Hermione usually bought her one every time they went.

`` Rose, are you done yet ? '' James tapped her on the shoulder.

Rose jumped and looked up from the transfiguration book she was reading. `` No. ``

`` Hurry up, '' James whined, `` I want to go get my Scots heather. ``

`` What makes you think you 'll get it ? ``

`` I 'm trying out for the Quidditch team this year, '' James told her.

`` So ? ''

`` So ? '' James gawked, `` So ? I need another Scots heather ! A undecomposed one ! You 'll never empathize. ``

St. James sighed loudly and then walked away. Rose shook her head and went back to her book. A few transactions later her mum told her it was time to go. It was clock time to go to Ollivander 's, which was what blush wine had been most looking forward to.

Rose ran ahead of the group with Albus and the two of them arrived at Ollivander 's long before the others. Ollivander had taken their measurements and brought out a few wands for Albus to try by the time the others got there.

Albus smashed the window with his world-class wand, which Rose thought was incredibly funny. She secretly hoped she would n't do the same, though. The next wand chose Albus and then it was rosiness 's turn.

The world-class three she tried out were n't right. Although she did n't unwrap any windowpane, they did n't play properly.

`` How about this one ? '' Ollivander handed her another baton, `` Ten and a one-half inches, yew, flying lizard heartstring. ''

blush wine took the verge and waved it. Red sparks erupted from it and pink wine knew it was the right one. She grinned at Ollivander and he smiled.

Next on the list was Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, despite James 's constant worrying about the Quidditch store.

`` Ron, Ginny ! '' George greeted them as they entered, `` And Harry and Hermione ! You 've got everyone with you today. ``

`` Hogwarts shopping, '' Harry grinned, `` Al and Rosie just got their sceptre. ``

blush wine opened the box she was holding and showed her wand to her Uncle George. Albus did the same.

`` Brilliant, both of you ! '' George IV said, `` And now I shall get you both ready for Hogwarts in the put-on department .... ''

rose followed her uncle across the shop. The one thing she had inherited from the Weasley side of the family was the beloved for a good joke. So long as no one got hurt, that is.

`` Now, every student needs a Skiving Snackbox or two, '' George said as he handed Rose and Alubs each a colourful box, `` After all, I ca n't suppose you 'll want to sit through History of Magic very often. ``

Rose smirked. She had heard about professor Binns and his oil production lectures, but she really did n't suppose she 'd ever use a Skiving Snackbox. well, maybe if St. James wanted her to watch Quidditch practice, but never for skipping a class.

`` And then you 'll need some muck bomb calorimeter, '' George IV said as he led them to a different display.

`` Last metre I checked, those were still forbidden at Hogwarts, '' Hermione said sternly.

`` Oh, I 'm sure enough they are, '' George winked, `` But so long as Filch does n't find out it was these two who set them off, it does n't weigh. ``

`` George Weasley ! '' Hermione scolded, `` You should be setting a intimately example for these two ! No admiration Fred was in detention every week last year ! ``

`` Lighten up, Hermione, '' Ron laughed, `` Let them get their fun. ``

`` Ronald ! '' Hermione shouted, `` You 're even speculative ! ``

A few second later, Ron had convinced Hermione to let Rose get the dung bomb and other mischief devising products. Hermione did n't face too happy about it, though.

George and Teddy, who had also been working, closed the workshop and they all went to the Leaky caldron for dinner. Everyone told stories about Hogwarts, which made Rose look forward to school even more.

James 's whining finally paid off after dinner and they went to Quality Quidditch Supplies. blush wine thought he took far too tenacious to pick out the utter broom and she was bored out of her thinker. James, Albus, slip, Ron, and Harry all spent at least a half hour going over the pros and confidence game of each model before they finally made a decision.

`` And it goes from zero to 60 in less than 20 endorsement ! '' James said excitedly on their way to Eyelops.

`` I do n't care, James II, '' rose groaned.

`` The twig repel piddle, '' Henry James added, `` So there is n't any drag when you 're playing in the rain or nose candy .... ''

rose wine ignored him for the rest of the walk and then lost him inside of Eyelops. She knew exactly what kind of owl she wanted. A tawny one. She had always liked that sort of owl.

She found three tawny owls together in a batting cage towards the back of the shop class and she put her manus up to the cage. Two of the owls ignored her but the tertiary one hopped over and rubbed its read/write head on her hand like a cat would. go up grinned and knew that was the owl for her.

Albus found an owl as well and the chemical group left with two hooting owls. James started telling Albus how he was going to hoist up in Slytherin, which was kind of ridiculous in Rose 's judgement. Albus then announced that he was going to name his owl Godric.

That was a good name, Rose thought. She looked at her owl and thought about name calling. None of the common animal names seemed to fit her owl. Godric, she thought. That was it. She would name her owl after another founder. pink wine 's owl would be Rowena. She did n't really think she 'd be in Ravenclaw, but Rowena was a good name for an owl.

The base on balls back to the Leaky cauldron was quiet. Hogwarts seemed closer than ever for Rose. She was ready. She had been ready for this for years. Her mum always told her that she had a hang for acquisition, and rosebush was cook to get wind everything Hogwarts had to offer.


Næsta saga
Albus waved to his parents and niggling babe, Lily, until he could no longer see them. `` Well, we 'd meliorate go find a compartment, '' he said to his cousin, rosebush, who was standing adjacent to him. pink wine nodded her head and they started walking down the train corridor. It was a bit hard to walk on a moving railroad train and Albus kept stumbling. The train rounded a corner and he fell into a rather mean looking older student.

"sentry where you 're going, midget,"the boy said as Albus and Rose quickly ran away from him.

`` bettor find a compartment quick '', Albus said. He continued to walk along the corridor, looking into each compartment as he passed. He spotted a lot of his early full cousin, but did n't really want to disrupt whatever they were doing with their acquaintance. Albus also saw a few hoi polloi who looked vaguely familiar, including the Jordan-Bell twin. Scorpius Malfoy was sitting in one of the compartments with a few other male child, but Albus definitely did not desire to sit with them.

Albus peeked into the future compartment and saw that there was a rather pallid boy sitting on one of the keister. He seemed very small and his face was quite scarred. There was also an older girl, who looked to be about Victoire 's age, sitting next to the boy. She looked vaguely familiar. Both of them had drear eyes and blond hair. They looked friendly enough. `` How about this one ? '' he said to Rose.

Rose glanced into the compartment for a few mo and replied, `` Yeah, looks good to me. '' She opened the door and the two cousins walked in.

"Can we sit here ? '' Albus asked.

"Sure,"the boy responded as he gestured to the seat opposite him."My public figure 's Matt, Matt Eckerton."

`` I 'm his babe, Amy. I 'm a seventh year, flatness 's just starting, '' the young lady told him.

"Hi, I 'm Albus Potter, '' Albus said, `` And this is my first cousin, blush wine Weasley, '' he gestured to Rose. `` We 're both first years. ``

`` Hi, '' rosiness waved. Rose sat down on the arse across from Amy and Albus sat down across from Matt.

`` That 's where I know you two from ! I knew I 'd seen you somewhere. My best Friend is your cousin-german, Victoire. I think I 've seen you at her house before, '' Amy explained.

`` Probably. I think I 've seen you, too, '' Rose responded. Albus nodded his principal in agreement.

Matt 's optic opened wide as he stared at Albus."So, you 're Harry ceramist 's son ? You know, you do look a whole lot like him. You 've got his eyes and everything."

"Yeah, I know,"Albus said shortly, he often got sick of people telling him this.

"I bet you two hear lots of story of the battle. My parents have told me some, but they do n't get laid all the details, just the bits that are in al-Qur'an. You see, we 're from Australia. We moved hear when I was about eight,"Matt looked nervously at his sister.

"Yeah, I know all about the struggle. My parents did n't distinguish me the full story until I turned eleven. Same with Rose, our parents told us at the Saami time. They did n't want to scare us, but thought we ought to know before we went to Hogwarts, since most people there will have heard all about it. But my parents do n't blab about it much. Guess it brings back bad computer memory,"Albus told matte before changing the subject. He really did n't enjoy people constantly asking him about his dad."So, how 'd you get all those scars ?"

"I 'm, um, er, very clumsy,"lusterlessness glanced at Amy and started to stare absentmindedly out the window.

"Oh, that 's ok. A friend of my parents'was very clumsy, sort of a problem since she was an Auror. But she was killed in the conflict at Hogwarts. Along with her husband. My dad is their son, teddy bear 's, godfather, so we see a lot of him,"Albus told Matt.

Matt just continued staring out the window. Albus did n't love what to say, he hoped he had n't said anything to rile Matt."So, do you have any other siblings ?"Albus asked.

mat turned away from the windowpane."Nope, just me and Amy. I know you 've got siblings. I 've read about you and them in Scripture. A brother Jesse James and a sister Lily, right ? And I think you 've got a little sidekick, right, blush wine ?"

Albus just looked at Matt. It was a bit strange having other hoi polloi know all about you. He supposed this was what it was like for his father when he went to Hogwarts."Yup, St. James is a second base class and Lily 's just nine, so she 's not here yet."

`` Yeah, my brother, Victor Hugo, is nine, too, '' Rose told him. Rose 's family was mentioned in numerous account book as well, although not nearly as many as Albus's.

At that consequence, the compartment room access opened and James I walked in with two of their cousins, Ben and Cedric, and their friend Nathan."How 's it going, little bro ?"St. James asked."Still worrying about being in Slytherin ?"

"James, shut up !"Albus responded, blushing a little.

"Oh, I see you 've met somebody, what 's your figure ?"Saint James the Apostle asked Matt.

"Matt Eckerton."

`` Hi, '' the boys responded.

`` Oh, and hi Amy, '' Ben added.

`` Hi, Ben. How are you ? '' Amy asked.

`` I 'm good. So this is your brother ?, '' Ben said. Ben was Victoire 's brother, so he had seen Amy scads of times.

`` Yeah, lustrelessness 's just starting his first gear twelvemonth, '' Amy told him.

`` Good luck with the sorting, then, Matt, '' Ben grinned at Matt.

"Ah, well, we practiced be off, the trolley 's on it 's way to our compartment, would n't want to miss that !"James said as he walked out of the compartment with his friends.

Matt stared at Albus."You think you 're going to be in Slytherin ?"

"No,"Albus said, turning more ruby.

`` So, what family do you desire to be in ? ``

`` Gryffindor, just like my parents, '' Albus told him, `` And James II and all my cousins are in Gryffindor, too. So were to the highest degree of my aunts and uncles. ``

`` I hope you get in, then, '' mat said, `` I 'm hoping for Gryffindor, too. Amy 's in Gryffindor. ``

`` Hope you 're there, too. ``

`` I 'm also hoping for Gryffindor, '' Rose announced, `` Although Ravenclaw looks decent, too. ``

`` Ravenclaw would n't be so bad, '' Matt agreed, `` That 's where all the smart kids go, right ? ``

`` In centre, yeah, '' Amy told him.

The compartment door opened again. Another boy walked in, along with a scared looking fille. The boy was sorry shin, very magniloquent, with brown hair and dark eyes. The lady friend was quite a bit short than the boy, with farsighted, rippled, honey colored hair and light brown eyes.

"Can we sit in here ?"the boy asked."A bunch of Slytherins kicked us out of our compartment."

"Sure,"Albus and lustrelessness responded.

"Good. I 'm John Brickston and this is Amanda Tagger. We 're both first days,"the boy told Albus, rose wine, lustrelessness, and Amy.

"Hi. I 'm Albus ceramist, this is my cousin-german Rose Weasley, and that 's Matt Eckerton, we 're also low gear old age,"Albus responded, `` And she 's Amy, lustrelessness 's sister. '' Albus pointed to Amy, who waved.

"Wow !"Saint John the Apostle exclaimed."My dad said you 'd be starting this class, Albus."Amanda still had n't said anything.

Albus just smiled a little and his cheeks turned redder yet.

`` well, I think I 'll go find Victoire, '' Amy grabbed her bag and got up, `` You going to be ok, matte ? ``

`` Yes, I 'll be fine, '' Matt told her.

`` You sure ? ``

`` Yeah, you can go. See you later, '' lusterlessness waved as his sister left the
compartment.

`` And you 're wax Weasley ? '' trick asked. pink wine nodded. `` I 've heard of you, too, '' John continued. `` Your category owns Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, right ? ``

`` Well, it 's really my Uncle St. George who owns it. He 's Albus 's uncle, too. But my dad works there a lot. My Uncle George opened it with my Uncle Fred after they left schooltime. They 're twins. But Uncle Fred died in the fight at Hogwarts, so after that my dad helped Uncle George with it, '' Rose explained.

John grinned, `` I love that place. So does my dad. He 's always buying me stuff from there. Mum 's not always happy about it since I 'm always using the poppycock to commit pranks on my piffling Sister. ``

Albus, Rose, and lustrelessness laughed. `` I 've done that quite a bit, too, '' Albus commented. `` But now that Lily 's a bit previous it 's surd to pull pranks on her. ``

"Anything from the trolley ?"A witch had appeared in the doorway with a trolley laden with pleasant-tasting sweets.

"Definitely !"John Lackland shouted, as he jumped up from his seat and ran out into the corridor. Albus smiled. whoremonger reminded him of James. Albus, Rose, Matt, and Amanda followed John Lackland. All five returned with their limb full of food.

"So, what is all this stuff ?"Amanda wheel spoke for the initiative time since entering the compartment.

"Well, you have your cauldron bar, Cucurbita pepo pasties, chocolate anuran, and Bertie Botts Every smell Beans,"John explained, as he pointed to the various detail."Just be careful with the beans."

"Why ?"Amanda asked as she tried a greenish biased bean."Ugh !"she exclaimed."bogy !"Amanda spat out the bean and it landed on Saint John. Albus, rosiness, and Matt broke out in fits of laughter.

"They mean every look !"matt shouted."So, you must be Muggle-born ?"

"Yes,"Amanda answered."My mum is a teacher and my dad 's a doctor."

"What 's a Doctor ?"King John asked.

"A muggle therapist,"lusterlessness explained."My mum 's Muggle born, but she 's a witch, and my dad 's a wizard. He works at the Ministry, in the section for the controller and Regulation of Magical wight,"matt told everyone. `` And my mum does n't work, but she 's mentation of getting a job now that I 've started school day. ``

"Oh, my parents are a witch and wiz. My family 's mostly all charming, except for a few Muggle auntie and uncles and full cousin. My dad is a Healer and my mum arrest at dwelling house with my unseasoned sisters, I 've got three of them. They 're nine, six, and five. But before I was born she worked at the Ministry,"whoremaster explained. `` How about your parents, Rose ? ``

`` wellspring, like I said before, my dad works at Weasley 's superstar Wheezes, but he 's also an Auror, which is a dark Wizard catcher. And my mum works at the Ministry. She 's the one who started all the House-Elf right hooey. ``

`` Wow, your dad 's an Auror, too ? That 's bloody brilliant ! '' Gospel According to John grinned.

"What do your parents do, Albus ?"Amanda asked.

Albus was a little aghast at this query, since the whole magical public knew about his parents, but of class Amanda did n't."Well, my dad 's an Auror. And my mum 's a sports writer for the Daily Prophet."

"Yeah, Albus 's parents are famous !"St. John the Apostle shouted."William Tell Amanda, wo n't you, Albus ?"Albus suspected John the Divine secretly wanted to discover all about the Potters directly from him, even though he 'd probably record all about them in books.

And so, Albus, with a little help from Rose, told the storey about how Lord Voldemort had killed his grandparents and tried to wipe out his dad, but his dad survived. He told them all about his parents'yr at Hogwarts, about the Horcruxes, and how Lord Voldemort met his downfall.

All three scholar stared at Albus and rosebush with their mouths spacious surface. lusterlessness and John had obviously heard the unanimous story before, but never this accurate an account. Amanda was practically in tears.

`` Blimey, '' John Lackland let out a low whistle, `` Your dad 's amazing. ``

`` Yeah, '' lustrelessness agreed.

Albus blushed, `` I guess, but I just think of him as my dad. ''

The group of five first years spent the rest of the journey discussing what they knew was true about Hogwarts and what their sibling and cousins had told them about the antediluvian school. Everyone agreed that the titan Squid did not eat a different outset yr each year while they crossed the lake on boats, despite what Albus and rosiness 's cousin, Fred, had said.

"wellspring, you 'd better vary into your robe,"rose wine said an minute or so after the sky turned darkness. blush wine had been wearing her robes since before she 'd even gotten on the train. The four early students changed into their robes quietly.

Once the railroad train arrived at Hogsmeade, the five scholar got off and looked around.

"fir tree'long time ! fir tree'years, this way !"a man shouted.

Albus and Rose ran up to him."Hagrid !"Albus shouted.

"'ello, Albus ! 'Ello, Rose !"Hagrid responded."set up ter go ? Here 's a sauceboat for yeh."Albus hurried into the boat, followed by John, and Matt, who were all gaping at Hagrid. blush wine and Amanda got into a nearby boat and were joined by the Jordan-Bell twin. Another tall boy quickly joined Albus in his boat.

`` You know him ? '' John the Divine pointed at Hagrid with an stunned flavor on his face.

`` Yep, he 's a family acquaintance, '' Albus answered.

`` I 've never seen mortal so big, '' Matt commented.

`` well, he 's half-giant, '' Albus told him.

`` That 's so coolheaded ! '' John grinned.

The boat started moving magically across the lake once everyone was in them. They sailed for what must sustain been at least a one-half hr before arriving at Hogwarts. Once they got there, Hagrid lead them into the rook and up a flight of stairs. The castle was incredible. It was big and intimidating looking on the external. But once Albus stepped inside, it seemed warm up and inviting, like he was home.

The number 1 years came to a stop in straw man of rigorous looking cleaning woman."Good evening. I 'm professor Patil, I teach transfiguration. In a moment, you will be able to link your bloke scholarly person in the Great vestibule for dinner, but beforehand, you will need to be sorted into your house. They are Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin,"she said Slytherin with a line of disgust in her voice."While you 're here, you will be able to garner points for your house for any achievements. Likewise, any misbehavior will cause points to be taken away. At the end of the twelvemonth, the house with the most points earns the House Cup. Now, abide by me, please."

-- -- -- -- --
A/N : I hope you liked it ! Feel liberate to lead a critique. I 'd like to give thanks my brother and Sister for reading this inaugural and letting me know what they thought.
I do n't own Harry Potter. zippo you recognize is mine.

******
The students followed professor Patil into a bombastic dining room. The ceiling looked just like the night sky outside."It 's enchanted to look like the sky,"Rose whispered to Albus. The previous students at all four of the table were whispering to each other and pointing wildly at Albus. Once the first years reached the top dog board, prof Patil turned around. The old scholar were still whispering, and they seemed to be doing so more loudly by the minute. Albus looked out at them and then inched his way to the back of the group so no one could see him. Sometimes, he hated how practically he looked like his father.

"serenity, please,"Professor Patil announced, and the students immediately stopped talking. An old, patched hat sat on a fecal matter and all of a sudden it broke out in song. A few of the kickoff years were quite shocked at this and jumped back. Once it stopped, prof Patil started talking again."When I call your name, you will get forward and try on the classification Hat."

"Asterley, Elaine."A shortly, blond haired little girl ran forward and tried on the hat."Hufflepuff !"the hat shouted.

"Brickston, John."John ran up and jammed the hat on his pass. It was only there for a second gear when it shouted out,"Gryffindor !"John let out a trashy whoop and ran for the Gryffindor board, where he was patted on the vertebral column by a few older Gryffindors.

"Creevey, Janie."She was also made a Gryffindor.

"Eckerton, Matthew."The master suddenly sat up straight in his seat and stared as lusterlessness tried on the hat and was made a Gryffindor. The master relaxed again. 'That was unusual ,'Albus thought. lusterlessness walked calmly over to the Gryffindor table and sat next to John.

`` Eubert, Carter. '' Albus recognized the other boy from their sauceboat as he walked up to the sorting Hat. He put it on and a few s later it shouted out, `` Ravenclaw ! ``

A few more students were sorted and then Professor Patil called"Malfoy, Scorpius."Albus watched as a blond haired boy with a smug look on his face was made a Slytherin before the hat even touched his head.

"Potter, Albus."A rustle went through the crew. The headmaster had sat up straight again. Albus froze. He could n't do this. What if he was made Slytherin in front of all these hoi polloi ? All these hoi polloi who expected him to be in Gryffindor ?"Albus potter ?"Professor Patil said again. somebody pushed Albus forward. He walked up to the stool and put on the hat.

"Ah, yes, another thrower. I see it all here. The bravery, yes, yes, it 's all here,"the hat told Albus.

"Not Slytherin,"Albus thought,"Anything but Slytherin."

"Oh, oh, this sounds familiar,"said the hat,"Yes, indeed, just like your founding father. And just like your father, Slytherin would help you achieve greatness, but if you insist, Gyffindor !"

Albus breathed a suspiration of relief as he jumped off the BM and ran to sit across from Saint John the Apostle and mat at the Gryffindor board. Albus did n't even pay attention to the side by side few sortings. He was just so felicitous to be in Gryffindor.

Albus next looked up when professor Patil called out"Tagger, Amanda."Albus watched as Amanda cautiously put on the hat."Gryffindor !"it shouted. Amanda ran to sit down across from John, with a smile on her face. Only one student was left to be sorted.

"Weasley, Rose."rose wine was made a Gryffindor before the hat had even touched her head. 'Just like how James was sorted ,'Albus thought. It never hesitated for them. But it had for him. Albus stared glumly at his fortunate plate.

The headmaster rose from his chairwoman."Welcome back to Hogwarts to all returning students and welcome to those who are new. For those of you who do n't get laid, I 'm prof Kendrick, headmaster of Hogwarts. Now, I know the onetime scholarly person have noticed we are suddenly one staff member,"the headmaster gestured to the empty chair beside him."But I shall inform you about that later. Right now it is time to eat."And the golden plates filled with food.

Albus stared in amazement as the food appeared in front of him. He started piling his plate with as much as would fit. St. John the Apostle was using not only his plateful, but an empty one that he found as well.

"This is get !"can exclaimed."I might actually get full here ! I hope all the repast are like this."

"Yeah, it all looks very good,"Albus said. Albus started eating his food for thought and could n't aid but overhear a conversation between two older students.

"I wonder where professor Torro is ? It 's not usual for a teacher to miss the start of terminus feast,"a Brown haired girl asked the boy sitting next to her.

"Yeah, quite strange, really. I hope he 's all right. Maybe he 's ill or something ?"the boy responded.

"What does he teach ?"lavatory said, interrupting the two honest-to-god students.

"Defense Against the darkness Arts,"the little girl told him. The two older students continued their conversation, but in scummy voices so john could n't overhear him.

*********

After the students had eaten their fill of dinner, the golden plateful became fairly for a consequence, and then dessert appeared. Albus immediately helped himself to his favorite, glop fancy woman. While he was eating, he heard a scream coming from his left. A ghostly head had appeared right out of Amanda 's plate.

"Oh, so sorry to have scared you !"the ghost said as he glided out of Amanda 's plate."I 'm Sir Nicholas."

"You 're Nearly Headless Nick !"trick shouted."Great to meet you. Can I see you pull off your head ?"

Amanda looked like she might faint, but Nick grudgingly pulled on his ear and his promontory came partially off.

"Wow ! That 's bloody magnificent !"John the Divine exclaimed."Did you see that, Albus ?"

"Yeah,"Albus responded. He did n't consider it was as full-strength as Saint John did, and was beginning to care he had n't eaten nearly as a good deal golden syrup tart.

The headmaster got to his feet again as the golden plates became clean once more."Is everyone fulfil ? ripe. Now, I have a few start of condition notices. The village of Hogsmeade is out of bounds for first and second geezerhood, as well as the Forbidden woods to everyone. As always, continue away from the Whomping willow. Mr. Filch has added a few new items to the list of forbidden things and if you wish to inspect the list, it is pinned to Mr. Filch 's door.

"Now, as many of you have noticed, professor Torro is not with us tonight. I regret to inform you that he has been discovered dead only a few minute ago,"prof Kendrick stated with a sad expression on his boldness. There was a astute intake of breath from the pupil."Cause of decease has not been determined. Until I can regain a suitable replacing, defense mechanism Against the shadow humanistic discipline classes will not occupy place. Now, it is meter to go to your dormitories. course of instruction begin tomorrow and you will ask to be well rested. First class, delight follow a prefect to your vernacular rooms."

Albus got up and looked for his first cousin, Georgia, for she was one of the Gryffindor prefects. Albus found her, and he, John, Matt, Rose, and Amanda all followed her up to the vulgar elbow room. As they walked through the castle, there was a whole lot of whispering about Professor Torro.

"He was n't even that old,"one student said.

"Yeah, and was n't daddy the subject that was hex years back ?"another responded.

Albus and the others arrived at the portrait of the Fat lady. Georgia told her the password, Cornish fowl Pixie, and everyone walked inside.

"Boys to the right wing, daughter to the left. I hope everyone has a good night,"Georgia told the kickoff years.

Albus walked up the spiral stairway to his dormitory with lusterlessness, St. John, and two other boy Albus had not met yet. Albus thought their public figure were Bilius and Ethan. Albus was rather quietly while he got into bed. All the former boys were laughing and talking. But Albus could n't shake that he was considered for Slytherin. He was also a bit nervous about the fact that a professor had died. That did n't happen often, did it ? Albus was still thinking about these things as he drifted off to sleep.

******

When Harry, Ginny, and Lily walked back into their house after taking James and Albus to Platform 9 3/4, Harry noticed an owl waiting on the windowsill. He walked over to it and opened the letter.

dearest Harry,
I would appreciate it if you would fare to Hogwarts later tonight, around 9pm.
I have something to ask you, and would prefer to do it in person, rather than by letter.
Please render this owl with your reply, thank you.
From,
Fabius Kendrick

'That 's strange ,'thought Harry. Surely one of his son could n't be in worry already ?"Ginny, I 'm going to have to go to Hogwarts tonight. Fabius has requested that I meet with him. He has n't told me why,"Harry told his wife.

"Okay, just let me know before you leave. That is strange, though. Why would n't he have met with you before condition started ? I hope King James I and Albus are n't in trouble."

*********

Later that dark, Harry Apparated into Hogsmeade. It was a chilly dark, but there was not a cloud in the sky. The headliner and moon shone brightly. Harry thought the students must be in their common rooms by now, judging from the time. 'That 's honorable, Albus and Jesse James have no idea I 'm here', thought Harry. He walked along the path and soon found himself walking through the big oak room access into the Great Hall. Kendrick was waiting for him there.

"commodity evening, Harry,"Fabius greeted.

"How are you ? What 's this about ? Are James and Albus okay ?"Harry asked anxiously.

"Oh, do n't worry, they 're fine. But I would favour if we discuss what we need to hash out in my berth,"Fabius responded. Harry followed Fabius up to the stone gargoyle. It leaped aside as Fabius murmured,"Woolen coat."

Harry walked into the familiar handbill spot. He saw all the various self-command that Dumbledore had left to the school. He also noticed the sleeping portraits of previous master. Only one was awake, the one of Albus Dumbledore. Harry smiled as he saw him.

"Please, sit down,"professor Kendrick said as he gestured to a professorship in front of his desk. Harry sat."I have some bad news. professor Torro was found utter in his home this morning."

"What ? ! How did he die ? He was n't very old,"Harry exclaimed. Professor Torro had been teaching daddy since Hogwarts reopened after the battle.

"I know, shocking, and very, very sad. His case of death was Avada Kedarva, but I did n't tell apart the pupil this. It does worry me. It is quite suspicious. Especially since dadaism was the discipline that Voldemort jinxed."

"But he 's gone ! I saw him die, I was there !"Harry shouted."This ca n't be the work of him, can it ?"Harry knew there would be an probe awaiting him when he returned to figure out the next day. He had taken the day off to see James and Albus onto the Hogwarts Express, and had n't heard a thing about prof Torro 's death until just now.

"Of course not. But there are still Death Eaters out there. I have rationality to believe that one of them killed Torro and the curate agrees with me. But onto the ground I have summoned you here.

"We are, of row, in indigence of a new dada instructor, and I was wondering if you would like the job. I think it would be a secure idea to let an Auror here after Recent epoch upshot and you are the apotheosis candidate,"Kendrick told Harry.

"Me ? A instructor ? Well, I ca n't say I 've never thought about it. It would be skillful to be back at Hogwarts. But what about Ginny and Lily ? I ca n't leave them."

"Of course of action. And feel free to allow every weekend to drop metre with them. Neville Longbottom does the same affair to jaw Hannah,"Kendrick explained.

"I guess I could do it, but only if Ginny is okay with it. I tell you what, I 'll Apparate home base tonight and ask her. You 'll hold your answer in the morning, okay ?"Harry asked.

"That 's amercement. I 'll see you in the morning, then. Good night."

"'Night,"Harry said as he walked out of the business office.

As Harry left the castle, he pondered the demise of Torro. Harry had only met Torro a few times, and he was not particularly close to him, but his death still troubled Harry. Was this another random expiry Eater attack ? There had been a few of them throughout the years after the battle. But why was Torro killed ? He did n't even live in Britain during the clip of Voldemort, he lived in France then. Why were the Death feeder going after Hogwarts teachers ? Harry had a shrewish flavour that this was n't like the former deaths, this had significance. Surely, Voldemort could n't give back ? He was dead. There were no Sir Thomas More Horcruxes. Harry kept telling himself this, but he still felt very restless about it. The headmaster and the minister of religion felt the Lapplander way. Why else would they want an Auror at Hogwarts ? Of course, Harry was the one who defeated Voldemort, so who else recognize more about DADA ?

Harry found himself back in Hogsmeade and he Disapparated. He appeared a instant later in his backyard and he walked into the house. It was prison term to tell Ginny what had happened. Luckily, Lily would be in bed.

*********

Early the side by side sunrise, Harry Apparated into Hogsmeade once again. This time he had his old Hogwarts tree trunk with him, along with a declamatory, Black person owl named William Harvey. This is familiar, he thought. Harry wheeled his torso over to Hogsmeade station, where he would wait for a carriage to take him to the palace. Ginny had said yes right away. She felt that Harry 's mien in the school would protect her Word. Ginny was also quite worried about the death of Torro.

The carriage arrived and Harry loaded his trunk into it. 'This sure is strange ,'he thought. binding at Hogwarts, once again. It kind of felt honest, comforting in a way. Hogwarts had always felt like base to Harry. But he still could n't shake the uneasy feeling he had about Torro 's Death. The carriage gave a pitch, and the thestrals pulled Harry up to the school.



"Get up, Albus ! Get up !"Albus awoke with a scratch line and saw John 's facial expression looking down at him.

"Huh ? Wha 's going on ?"Albus said sleepily.

"beginning day of lessons ! Let 's go down to breakfast,"Saint John the Apostle responded, excitedly. He was bouncing around the room, waking up all his colleague Gryffindors.

Albus got up and put on his robes."Okay, I 'm prepare,"

"Great ! Bilius and Ethan are up too. But I ca n't get Matt up. He sleeps like a log,"John said as he shook Matt some more. Matt finally got up and put his robes on.

The five Gryffindor maiden year boys met the fille in the common room. pink wine, Amanda, Janie Creevey, and the Jordan-Bell Twin Falls. Albus knew he 'd met the twins a few times, but could n't remember their names They introduced themselves as Karina and Marina. They were identical with prospicient disgraceful hair and blue eyes. The initiatory years walked down to the Great Hall together, only getting lost once.

When Albus walked into the Great Radclyffe Hall, he glanced up at the caput table and his jaw dropped. He stopped walking and an older Hufflepuff bumped into him.

"Sorry,"she said as she walked past.

Albus did n't pay any attending to her. He continued to stare at the staff table. Sitting adjacent to the headmaster, was his begetter. Albus shook his capitulum and ran over to the Gryffindor table, where his fella first years had already sat down.

"Jesse James ! William James !"Albus shouted,"Look who 's sitting next to Professor Kendrick ! Is n't that Dad ? What 's he doing here ? He does n't teach here !"

St. James the Apostle was staring at Harry."Yeah, I know. funny story how he never mentioned it. But I guess he must be the new dada teacher. All the other teachers are there."

"Honestly, James ! He could n't have told us yet. Torro just died yesterday. Obviously, Kendrick asked him last night. It was only a affair of prison term, was n't it ? I mean, he 's got to be the most stipulate genius for the job, right ?"Georgia had sat down following to James and talked some gumption into him.

"I suppose,"James II said as he started to eat his eggs.

"Here are your schedules !"Neville Longbottom had appeared near the Gryffindor board.

Albus took his schedule from him and looked at it. He had pa right after breakfast, then Charms, and after dejeuner he had repeat Herbology.

"Looks like a decent schedule,"John said,"Should be interesting having your dad as a teacher, Albus ! I ca n't wait ! I 've got so many enquiry for him."

"Yeah, should be marvelous,"Albus said glumly as he dug into his waffles. Truthfully, Albus did not want his dad didactics at Hogwarts. With his dad here, Albus would be even more famous than usual. He did not like the staring eyes and the constant questions about his dad.

**********

After breakfast, the Gryffindors headed to the daddy classroom, with Saint John leading the way. Albus hung back with Matt, who was going pretty slow.

"You okay, Matt ?"Albus asked,"You look kind of sick. You want to go to the Hospital extension ?"

"No, I 'll be fine,"Matt replied with a yawn,"hypothesis I did n't get to catch some Z's until lately, too spooky about lessons."

When they arrived at the classroom, Albus ran and took the mesa in the back. Matt and Amanda followed him. John hesitated, apparently torn with joining his new supporter and sitting up front. Finally, he, too, went and sat in the back.

"Why are we sitting back here ?"King John asked.

"Cause it 's my dad, John. How would you like it if your dad taught at Hogwarts ?"Albus said in a ill-mannered tone. St. John did n't say anything.

At that moment, another group of students came into the way. They were Slytherins. Scorpius Malfoy was leading them.

"Great, we 're with the Slytherins,"John whispered to Matt,"Leslie Townes Hope they 're not going to ruin everything."John Lackland was about to launch into a philippic about Slytherins, but Harry walked in.

"Good morning,"Harry said as he walked to the nominal head desk,"I 'm Professor Potter."A few of the girls in front giggled."I 'll start by taking attendance."Harry ran down the attendance flat solid. Everyone was there.

"Please open your al-Qur'an to page 5,"Harry told the students.

"professor ? Can you tell us about the battle ? Please ?"one of the Gemini asked, Albus did n't know which one.

Harry sighed."fountainhead, I really do n't care to talk about it much. But I suppose I could. I know you wo n't let it rest until I do,"he smiled and looked at Albus,"I know my own kids, nieces, and nephews kept asking me until I told them."

Albus sunk lower in his chair. King John was sitting straight up, staring at Harry, hardly blinking. Amanda and matte were also paying close attention.

Harry 's story about the battle lasted the whole menses. The bell rang shortly after Harry finished.

"Please read chapter one for following time, since we did n't get a prospect to cover it in category,"Harry told the students as they left."And Albus, could you stay put for a consequence ?"

"You guys go on ahead,"Albus told his supporter,"I 'll conform to you in Charms."Albus approached his don 's desk after all the early students had left.

"Hi, Al, how was the Sorting ? I see you did make it into Gryffindor. I knew you would,"Harry said with a proud aspect on his face.

"Yes, I did,"Albus said, his centre brimming with tears as he remembered what the hat had told him,"But it wanted to put me in Slytherin !"Albus started crying and he could n't hold on."I told it to put me in Gryffindor, that 's the only if reason it did !"

Harry quickly shut the room access before responding."I told you at the place that it did that to me, too."

"But that 's cause you were a Horcrux !"Albus sobbed,"I 'm not a Horcrux, so why should I have done well in Slytherin ? It put Rose in Gryffindor before it even touched her point. And James said it did that with him, too."

"Yes, I know, but everyone 's different. It means that you have qualities of many dissimilar houses. It does n't mean you should be in Slytherin. The hat put you in Gryffindor because you wanted it to. A slap-up man once told me 'it is our choices that show who we really are, far more than our ability'. Albus Dumbledore was that man. He told me that when I was wondering the same affair you 're wondering right now. You chose to be in Gryffindor, which makes you very unlike from the Slytherins. Do n't occupy about it,"Harry explained, as he drew Albus into a hug.

"O-k-kay,"Albus stuttered,"J-just, d-do n't tell J-James."

"Do n't worry, I wo n't. James does n't even cognise that the hat considered putting me in Slytherin,"Harry confided,"Now, I think you should be off to your following category. And do n't worry about me teaching here. I 'll treat you just like the early educatee, detentions and all."

Albus laughed."wellspring, you do n't consume to do that."

"See you later, Al."

"Bye, Dad."

**********

Albus was a bit more cheerful for the quietus of the day. He thoroughly enjoyed repeat Herbology. He had known prof Longbottom since he was born, and Albus was very concern in magical flora. Charms, however, was n't as enjoyable. The charm professor, Professor Washburn was not very courteous, and for some reason he seemed to give birth something against Gryffindor.

Soon enough, dinner came, and right when Albus walked into the Great Hall, Saint James came running over to him.

"So, how was having Dad as a instructor ?"James River asked, breathlessly.

"You know, it was n't as bad as I thought it would be,"Albus said, while sitting down and grabbing the nighest bowl of spud."He spent the unit period telling everyone about the engagement because he figured no one would leave him alone until he did."

"Sounds associate !"James laughed,"Remember when we kept bugging him about it when I was 10 ? And then he said he 'd severalize us the whole story the summer before our world-class twelvemonth of Hogwarts."

"Yeah, I was variety of surprised he was so volition to secernate the story. You know how he hates talking about it."

"I know, but I suppose it 's better for everyone to try it sooner rather than later, and now Dad can get on to teaching,"Saint James explained as he shoved his mouth with chicken,"Should be pretty cool having him instruct, he knows so much DADA."

"Hey, Albus !"John shouted to Albus as he ran over to the Gryffindor table. flatness sat down on Albus 's former side.

"Hi John, lustrelessness,"Albus said, passing them the pumpkin juice.

"Wow, this is just as good as terminal nighttime !"privy exclaimed as he piled his plate high school with food,"I could definitely get used to this."

"What ? Did your mum starve you ?"Albus joked.

"'Course not. But she did n't pee-pee as much motley,"John explained. He turned to flatness."You okay ? You look kind of pale."

That was an understatement. flatness looked like he was about to pass out in the potatoes. He had n't touched any of the food for thought and his golden denture was still empty. lusterlessness was leaning his mind on his bridge player and was yawning a lot."I 'm all right, I guess, just tired."

Albus and John eyed him warily."You sure ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah, I 'm just not thirsty tonight. I 'll be fine."

At that second, the headmaster stood up."If I could have your attention for just a bit, I have some more announcements."The room immediately fell still."Thank you. Now, as many of you have noticed, I did have achiever in securing a new dada teacher and I would care to introduce him. This is Professor Potter."Kendrick gestured to Harry."Now, I know many of you will have questions for him when you have your first DADA object lesson, but I ask you not to beleaguer him. He will tell you what he wants to, and nothing more. I would also like to tell you that if you want to try out for your house Quidditch team, please give your name to your pass of house. That is all. Thank you."Kendrick sat back down again and proceeded to talk to Harry.

"well, I 'm trying out for Seeker this year !"James announced to the unit Gryffindor table,"I 've been down to the Pitch practicing on my Firebolt during lunch."

"commodity hazard, James,"Albus told him,"Dad 'll be gallant if you make the team."

"I sure hope I do. It 'll be great having him ascertain the games."

Albus turned to John."You finished ? We should probably get started on that homework."

John groaned,"Yeah, I suppose. You gon na come, mat ?"

Matt looked up from his dental plate."Sure."The three male child started walking back up to the Common room, with Matt lagging behind.

"Matt, are you certainly you 're ok ? You 're going pretty slow,"Albus asked, with a nervous look on his grimace."I think you should probably go to the hospital backstage.

Matt looked out the window."I suppose you 're probably right. You guys go on ahead, I 'll meet you back in the common room."

"No, we 're going to take you. You look set to collapse,"bathroom insisted. They all trekked back down the step and to the Hospital Wing. When they got there, Madam Pomfrey was right by the door.

"Matt ! Come here, you look frightening,"she said, grabbing his shoulder and leading him to the bed,"Thanks for bringing him, boys, you can leave now."Madam Pomfrey shooed them out of the room.

"You know, it almost looked like she was waiting for him,"Albus said as he walked up the stairs.

"Yeah, and she knew his name. That 's odd. I do n't think he 's been there yet,"John the Evangelist stated,"I wonder if he gets unbalanced often ? Or maybe he gets hurt a lot, he 's got incumbrance of scars. ``

"I know. I asked him about them on the gear, before you came in. He said he was clumsy and quickly changed the subject."

"fountainhead, I 'm sure he 'll say us about it when he 's ready,"John reasoned,"Cornish Pixie."The portrait opened and the two male child walked into the uncouth way. They settled down to doing their prep with Amanda, rose wine, Janie, Bilius, Ethan, and the twins. After a few hours, Albus bid them thoroughly night.

He walked up to his dorm, changed into his pj's, and climbed into bed. He pondered his object lesson and the residual of his day. Albus was happy that having his dad there was n't as bad as he thought it would be. But why did Professor Washburn dislike him and the other Gryffindors so much ? And was flatness okeh ? He still had n't returned to the plebeian room. As Albus was worrying about Matt, he drifted off to sleep. Just after he drifted off, the screech Shack shrieked for the low gear fourth dimension in decades.




Harry was in the Great Charles Martin Hall. rophy bound him to the Headmaster 's death chair. His scrape was searing in pain. roue was pouring down his arms as he struggled against the restraints. He opened his optic and glanced around, looking for his wand. There it was, lying uselessly halfway across the elbow room. All around him, former multitude were bound to the early prof 's electric chair, they were surrounding Harry in a circle. A cloaked figure was circling around the outside of the circle, while early cloaked figure of speech stood stationary around the room. soundbox lay in pools of rakehell on the floor.

Harry glanced around at the other multitude bound to the chair. The someone directly across from him had long red whisker. Harry screamed."NO ! ! ! ! Ginny !"He looked at the other people."James ! Albus ! Lily ! remove me instead, not the kids !"

The hooded figure looked up and entered the round. He stood directly in social movement of Harry."Well, well, someone 's decided to regain his consciousness. As you see, the rest of them did n't fair too well without you. near are dead. But I 've saved your honey family for last. I will torture them and toss off them. And then, I shall pop you. At death, I 've waited so long. You should hold known you could n't obliterate me."Voldemort rounded on the diminished child tied to a chair.

"Crucio !"he shouted.

"NO ! ! ! ! Do it to me instead ! Lily !"Harry screamed. His mark started to spite even worse, it burned so bad he could n't keep his eye unresolved anymore.
Harry awoke with a start. He was covered in sweat and his heart was beating fast. His hand automatically went to his cicatrice, but he was not in any pain. He shakily got out of bed and went to the window.

'Will it never end ?'he thought. The incubus kept returning, but why ? It was always the Lapp one. It had been going on ever since the shoemaker's last battle. Only before he had nipper, the people surrounding him were Ginny, Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna. As soon as King James I was born, Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna disappeared. Once Albus was born, he appeared too. Same with Lily.

Harry had no estimate what the dreaming meant, and neither did anyone else. Harry could think of only one person who may make been able to explain it, Dumbledore. However, as soon as Harry had a few of these dreams, he had gone to see the portrait in Dumbledore 's office. He was only 18 then. Unfortunately, Dumbledore had no useful explanation. Since Harry was no retentive a Horcrux, he could n't possibly be seeing into Voldemort 's thought. Especially since Voldemort was idle. But the dreams continued.

Tonight 's dreaming had been more vivid than any of the by unity. Maybe it was because Harry had spent all day reliving the horrific picture from his childhood to various daddy course of instruction. He wished he had n't done that now. Oh, how he regretted it. But he 'd sustain to put up with it the rest of the week, seeing as it would n't be fairly not to order the other students.

Harry walked away from the windowpane. He slowly walked into the corridor. His all organic structure was clammy. He needed a sleeping draught. He 'd been relying on these more than and more as time went on .'I really should take how to brew them myself ,'he laughed to himself.

Walking through the corridors at night brought back many memories. He still felt like he was disobeying the pattern, even though he was now a professor. It seemed like Snape was right around the corner waiting to captivate him doing something wrong. Harry climbed the stairs to the infirmary extension. He hated to wake dame Pomfrey at this hour, however he knew he 'd never get to sleep without it. Maybe she would give him a big supply to keep in his office.

Harry walked into the ward, only to see that ma'am Pomfrey was already up. She was tending to a young lady in one of the end beds.

"how-do-you-do, Poppy,"he whispered.

"Oh !"gentlewoman Pomfrey jumped,"You frightened me. I was n't expecting you at this minute, Harry. You know, it 's almost like you 're a bookman again, coming in so late."

"Yeah, I was thinking the same thing,"Harry glanced down at the missy,"Is she okay ?"

"Yes, she 'll be fine. soul levitated her in her sleep. She screamed and that scared the bookman who did it to her, that student gave the countercurse, and she promptly fell onto the floor and broke her arm."

"Wow, does n't take very long for matter to get interesting around here,"Harry said.

"Now, why are you here, Harry ?"

"fountainhead, er, remember after the battle and I had all those nightmare ? They never completely stopped, and now they seem to be getting forged. I was wondering if I could stimulate a quiescency draught. I 'd also care to just accept a supply of it on hand. I 've never been much of a potion brewer and have n't attempted to make it myself. I just can never manage to get to sleep without one after one of these nightmare,"Harry explained sheepishly. He felt like he was a kid again. How could he, the ace who defeated Voldemort, who was known as the hardy wizard of the times, be afraid of a nightmare ?

A sad gaze fell over madam Pomfrey."You know, this kind of reminds me of how you were so susceptible to the dementors in your third yr. I know most the great unwashed think you 're courageous and nothing frightens you, but everyone has nightmare and being frightened is null to be ashamed of."She walked over to a cabinet and came back with a bombastic bottle filled with potion."Here you go. Just come back to me whenever you need more."She handed him the bottle.

"Thanks,"Harry replied, as he walked out of the Hospital Wing.

As he walked back towards his office, Harry thought about what Madam Pomfrey had said. He knew she was right, but he still could n't facilitate but feel infirm whenever he had one of these nightmares. He just wished he knew why he was having them and what he could do to stop them.

******

When Albus awoke the next morning, matte still had n't returned from the Hospital offstage. John suggested that they go visit flatness before class, but since the two boy had gotten up late, they only had time to grab a quick pungency to eat before heading to Potions in the dungeons.

"commodity aurora, class !"an old, round, professor greeted them,"I 'm professor Slughorn, your Potions master copy. Today, we shall be learning about the staple of potion brewing, including the importance of proper stirring, rut, and ingredients. Please open your books to page 6."

The class opened their books and spent the unanimous lesson listening to Slughorn and copying down notes.

"Well, we 're pretty a great deal out of prison term, so I 'll see you all next lesson. Could I have Albus Potter and Rose Weasley please arrest by my desk on their way out ?"Slughorn told the class.

"I 'll see you in Transfiguration of Jesus, lavatory. William Tell professor Patil where I am,"Albus told his champion. He had a feeling he knew what Slughorn wanted. James had warned him about it.

Albus and Rose walked cautiously up to Slughorn 's desk after everyone else had left.

"Ah ! Whitney Moore Young Jr. Mr. Potter and Miss Weasley. Now, I would like to severalize you about a trivial gathering I have scheduled for Friday. It 's for the students in the school whose parents are, for lack of a better terminus, popular. Or those who have shown olympian sorcerous science. Of grade, I 'd be pleased if the both of you would attend. I 'm for sure your cousins will be attending. They seemed to wish them in the past eld,"Slughorn informed them.

"Well, er, I guess we could make it,"Albus told Slughorn, while looking at Rose.

"Yes, we 'll be there. See you next lesson, Professor,"pink wine told him, as the two of them left the dungeon.

"I knew it was only a thing of time before we were invited to the Slug golf-club,"Albus groaned. James loved the poke Club. It gave him a whole lot more than attention and more citizenry for him to differentiate his narrative too. But Albus did n't like the fame. He would have rather skipped the political party, but as William James and his full cousin were going, it would be operose not to.

"wellspring, maybe it 'll be fun,"Rose stated in a hopeful look. Albus rolled his eyes and the two of them went to Transfiguration.

***********
Matt did n't depict up in classes all day. Albus and John were really starting to worry. They decided to inflict him before dinner party. When they got into the infirmary Wing, they did n't see mat right away. There was one lady friend occupying a bed with her arm in a sling. Madam Pomfrey was fussing over her.

"I really think you need to ride out here tonight. You can pass on in the sunrise !"

"But, Madam Pomfrey, I 've been here all day. My arm 's amercement !"the girl exclaimed.

"No, I will not accept it ! You can result in the morning,"Madam Pomfrey said in a smell that was not to be argued with. The girl pouted and stopped talking.

Albus and John the Evangelist approached Madam Pomfrey."Um, where 's Matt Eckerton ? We brought him here stopping point night,"can said tentatively.

"He 's back there,"she said, pointing to a bed with the drape pulled around it.

"fountainhead, can we see him ?"Albus asked.

"No, I 'm sorry, but you ca n't. He 's not in any Department of State to have visitor at the moment. You can come see him this meter tomorrow,"brothel keeper Pomfrey said hurriedly.

"But could you at least tell apart us if he 's ok ?"Albus asked.

"He 'll be mulct in a few days. Now, you two should head down to dinner. You can see Matt tomorrow."

Albus and John walked glumly down to the Great Hall."That was strange. James said you can usually chat your friends when they 're in the Hospital Wing,"Albus told John.

"Very weird. You know, I think Matt 's keeping something from us. Madam Pomfrey seemed like she was expecting him cobbler's last night, and now no one can see him,"lavatory told Albus in a worried tone.

"We 'll ask him about it when he gets out of the infirmary Wing. I do n't believe he 'll be inclined to tell us tomorrow,"Albus reasoned.

*********

The side by side day, Gryffindor first years had pappa again. Nothing extraordinarily exciting happened during class. They mostly took note of hand on using Expeliarmus, the disarming magical spell. Harry said they would start being able to practice it on each other in the side by side class. John and Albus were really looking forward to this, as they really had n't used their wands for anything yet.

Charms, however, was quite eventful. prof Washburn started class by taking attendance as usual. He gave a menacing spotlight to all the Gryffindors as he called their epithet. But Albus thought he stared especially long at him.

"subscribe to out your scepter,"snarled Wahsburn,"we 're practicing levitation today. Everyone take a feather."Washburn waved his baton and a feather appeared in forepart of each pupil."Remember to swish and flick."

"Swish and moving-picture show,"murmured Albus from the back table. He waved his scepter and said,"Wingardium Leviosa !"naught happened. He tried over and over again. Still, zippo happened. john, however, managed to do it.

"feel, Albus !"John exclaimed,"I 've done it !"John Lackland 's feather had rose a few in off the table, and fell down again.

"congratulation,"Albus said flatly, his plumage still remaining quite still on the table.

"I 've done it, too !"blush wine shouted. Her feather had also rose off the tabular array, but it managed to make believe it a few invertebrate foot in the air before falling.

Washburn stormed out from behind his desk and rounded on the back tabular array, where Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda were sitting."Well, do it again !"he growled.

John and Rose looked at him nervously and picked up their wands."Wingardium Leviosa !"they said at the same time. Both their feather rose feebly into the air and fell down again.

"Pathetic,"Washburn muttered,"thrower ! You do it !"he shouted at Albus.

"But, professor, I have n't managed it yet,"Albus muttered quietly.

"You 'll do what I tell you to do ! perform the spell !"Washburn seemed to be getting angrier by the arcminute.

Albus nervously picked up his wand. His arm was shaking, this would not rick out salutary."Wingardium Leviosa,"he muttered very quietly. His plumage leaped into the air and caught ardour. The whole year, which had been staring at the rachis board for quite some meter, screamed.

The flaming from the feather caught onto Washburn 's robes and set them on fire as well."Bloody Hell !"Washburn screamed. He grabbed Albus 's sceptre out of his hand and produced water from it to dowse the flames."ceramist ! You 'll getting detainment and 20 points from Gryffindor !"he shouted, glaring at Albus."Class dismissed. Get out, all of you except Potter."

Albus was visibly shaking now. The respite of the division quickly left, the Gryffindors glancing anxiously at Albus. He walked slowly up to Washburn 's desk.

"Well, you seem to stimulate a hang for causing difficulty, potter,"Wahsburn spat.

"I 'm dismal, Professor, I did n't mean to,"Albus muttered, on the verge of tears.

"You 'll be doing hold tonight, I do n't care what other plans you might have. See you at 8pm."

"But-"

Washburn cut him off."I said tonight, now get out !"he screamed.

********

Later that night, Albus trudged his way back to the common elbow room after doing detention with Washburn. He had Albus do lines, so it was n't too bad. But Washburn stared at Albus the wholly fourth dimension, his center like fire.

Albus climbed through the portrait and saw just who he needed to talk to."William James, I 've got to ask you something."

"What is it ?"Henry James asked, walking away from his admirer.

"Why does Washburn hate me ?"Albus asked."During the beginning class, I thought he just hated all Gryffindors, but today he made it clear that it 's me he hates."

"Really ? It 's well known he hates Gryffindors. But he 's always seemed to hate me to a greater extent than everyone else,"James I explained,"I always assumed it 's because I cause so practically problem. You on the other paw, have always been so restrained. What did you do to him ?"

Albus mumbled something incoherent.

"What ?"

"I set him on fire."

James burst out laughing.

"It 's not funny ! I did n't stand for to do it. We were doing levitation, and he asked me to levitate the feather in front line of everyone, when he knew I had n't managed to do it before. My arm was shaking so much I knew the charm would n't act upon. The feather caught attack as soon as I muttered the turn, and then it spread to Washburn 's gown. I got lines and 20 head taken from Gryffindor,"Albus looked down, ashamed.

William James looked daze."But that 's a mistake any start year could have made. I do see how he got mad, though. I think you should just try to forefend him. Sit in the rachis, do n't say anything. Ignore him in the halls. That 's what I do. I still get way more detention from him than any other teacher, but I think I 've become immune to them. Well, I 'd better get back to my friends. See you later."

Albus contemplated this information. Washburn hated all Gryffindors, but he hated James and Albus the most. Why ? It did n't make gumption. Neither Albus nor James had met Washburn before Hogwarts.

"Albus !"whoremonger came running into the common room,"I 've just been with Matt."

"How is he ?"Albus asked.

"Not good. He 's covered in cuts and bruise. Said he 'd tripped on his way to the john. He kept avoiding talking about being ill. Just wanted to talk about what 's going on in the shoal. So I told him about you setting Washburn on attack. He thought it was hilarious."

"It 's NOT !"Albus shouted. He was sick of everyone thinking it was funny. The history had already made it around the school and at dinner party everyone was staring at him to a greater extent than common. Some educatee even high fived him and patted him on the back. It seemed like Washburn was disliked by many pupil.

"OK, okay,"John said, putting his manpower up,"Anyway, Matt said he 'd be back in class tomorrow morning. Madam Pomfrey just wanted him to stay the relief of the night."

"good. Let 's go to bed. I 'm fagged,"Albus said. He and Gospel According to John climbed up the circular staircase to the dormitory.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Here 's the next chapter ! I combined two short-change chapters into one, so this one 's a skilful bit longer than the old ones.
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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Fri came too quickly for Albus 's liking. He was not looking forward to the poke society meeting. Since the meeting and Gryffindor Quidditch try-outs were at the Lapplander time, James I would n't be joining Albus at the meeting. Albus had tried to get out of the meeting by watching try-outs, but the team police chief decided to not let any spectators at the try-outs. A enceinte bit of students had wanted to attend just to see James, and the police chief did n't want anyone to break up the try-outs.

Later that day, Albus and Rose walked down to the dungeons together. Albus was dreading the coming together. They walked into the meeting to see that most everyone else was already there. Albus already knew most of them. Some of his cousins were there, along with various other Order extremity'children. However, there were a few faces Albus had never seen before.

"Ah ! Albus and Rose !"Slughorn gestured to a few chairs in the room,"Please have a behind. You already know many of the hoi polloi here. But I do n't consider you know Tami Tobias, frankfurter Belleville, and Quinton Willinson ?"he said, gesturing to a blond haired girl, a fatal hairy boy, and a very moody looking boy."Tami is a 6th year Ravenclaw who brews the most excellent potions, Frank is a 4th year Hufflepuff who can already perform nonverbal spells ! And Quinton 's a 7th year Slytherin whose father works at the Minsitry."

"Er, hi,"Albus responded.

"howdy,"pink wine smiled.

Unfortunately for Albus ; Tami and dog, along with Slughorn, spent much of the meeting hounding Albus with query about his dad, the battle, and Albus 's puerility. Eventually, Albus just got fed up with it.

"smell, my dad 's told you all he wants to tell you. You 're not going to learn anything else from asking me !"Albus shouted.

Slughorn looked taken aback."I thought you 'd enjoyed talking about it. Your blood brother always enjoys telling history about his childhood."

"fountainhead, I 'm not James, now, am I ?"Albus shouted. Everyone else was now staring at him. Albus jumped up from his chair and stormed out the doorway, slamming it behind him.

Albus stamped his substructure the whole way up to the common room. He went through the portrait and was immediately bombarded by James.

"Albus ! I got it ! I 'm the new searcher !"James II shouted over the randomness, jumping up and down and spilling his butterbeer all over the floor.

"That 's with child, Epistle of James, really great,"Albus told him, trying to sound somewhat excited.

"What ? You 're not well-chosen for me ? I thought you would be. Dad 's ecstatic. I told him as soon as I was done at audition,"Jesse James said tentatively.

"No, I am excite,"Albus responded glumly. All he wanted to do was go to bed, but King James I blocked his path.

"What 's improper ? I can narrate something 's faulty. severalise me,"James II said, in a voice that sounded strangely like their mother's.

"It 's the lick ball club. I just left. All anyone wanted to do was heed to me blabber on about my childhood,"Albus shouted, all the anger coming back in fully force."They would n't discontinue bothering me until I screamed at them and stormed out."

James just stared at Albus."And to top it all off, Slughorn said he thought I 'd like talking about all that, just because you do !"Albus screamed at James and punched the closest armchair.

"Boy, you do feature Dad 's temper,"James told Albus,"I 'm sorry I could n't be there. I 'll be there at all the others. I swear. Well, unless there 's Quidditch practice."

"Others ? ! You really think I 'm going to another one of those ?"Albus shouted disgustedly.

"well, Slughorn has them all throughout the yr. Sometimes they 're variety of fun. You know Dad used to go to them."

"Fun ? ! Fun ? ! How could that possibly be fun ? And I know Dad used to go to them, he did n't exactly savor them, now did he ?"Albus seethed.

"Yeah, some of them are fun,"Epistle of James shifted from understructure to foot. Albus could tell he was nervous.

"Just go back to your party. You deserve it. estimable job at making searcher, I really do stand for that. But I think I 'm going to bed. in effect night."

"'Night,"Epistle of James said as he rejoined his party.

Albus walked up to his dormitory. It was still relatively early on, so Albus was surprised to see matt there. Matt had returned at breakfast yesterday morning, but he still did n't look himself, so whoremonger and Albus did not bring up the interrogation of him being ill.

Albus went over to Matt 's bed and pulled back the curtains. He was sound asleep. That was unknown. He just spent 2 day in the hospital Wing, why was he still tired ? Was he still puke ? Albus sighed, he would n't be able-bodied to call into question Matt tonight. well, turning in early would do Albus some dependable too. Maybe he 'd be able to calm down after the evening 's excitement. He got into his pajamas and got into bed.

********
Unfortunately, Albus did not feature a relaxing sleep. He was having vivid incubus which involved Slughorn questioning him while James I stood behind him, laughing. This like ikon kept recurring over and over again. Albus tossed and turned and eventually, a new dream came over him.

Albus was sitting in a dark vacuous elbow room. A man in a glowering cloak appeared side by side to him.

"He will return,"the man said.

"What ?"Albus asked."Who 's returning ?"

"He 's coming. He 'll find a way. He will return."

"Tell me ! Who ?"Albus shouted.

"He will return, he will return, he will retrovert ...."the man said over and over again.

Albus awoke with a start. He was sweating. What was that about ? He had never had such a vivid dreaming. Who was going to give ? Albus raked his head, and then it hit him. It felt like he 'd been punched in the tummy. Of course of action ! He jumped out of bed and put on his dressing robe. It must be late, he thought. Matt, St. John, Ethan, and Bilius were still sleeping. Albus tip-toed out of dormitory and carefully keep out the room access behind him.

Albus had to see his dad. He did n't handle that it was the middle of the night. He ran out of the uncouth room and into the vacate corridor. It was unusual wandering around this tardily. Albus had never walked around the castle at night. He did n't care that he was n't supposed to be out of his dormitory this late. All he thought about was telling his dad about that aspiration. Albus ran down the stairs, probably making too much noise. As he rounded the corner, individual reached out and grabbed his shoulder. Albus screamed.

"Shut up !"a man shouted,"You 'll arouse the unit schooltime. Then we 'll accept a real problem."

Albus looked into the eyes of the man who had caught him. It was professor Washburn.

"wellspring, well, Mr. ceramicist is out of bed. And this belated at night ? Surely, he must be up to no good,"Washburn sneered. Albus heard the happiness in his quality."We 'd better be off to my office, shall we ?"

Albus stood where he was."No, I have to see my dad."

"Running to dada, are we ? Is n't that confection. Unfortunately for you, wandering corridors at night is against the dominion, therefore, I will punish you."

Washburn grabbed Albus 's hired man and dragged him to his office. Albus was really shaking now. What would Washburn do to him ?

When they entered Washburn 's dour power, he forced Albus into a chairperson directly in front end of his desk.

Washburn slammed his hands on his desk."So, decided to have a little midnight stroll ? forethought to tell me what you were up to ?"he glared at Albus, not blinking.

"I 've already told you. I need to see my dad,"Albus told him, nervously.

"Surely that could wait till morning ? I bet you were setting up some kind of trick. Am I right ? You know, I 've caught your comrade out of bed many a sentence for just that reason."

So that was it. Washburn hated James, so he in twist hated Albus too. That was the endorsement time in the yesteryear 12 hr that Albus had been compared to James."I am NOT like my chum !"he stood up, fists clenched and stared at Washburn.

Washburn smiled."I seem to suffer struck a nerve. But it hardly matters what you were doing out of bed. The fact remains that students are not to be out of bed at,"he glanced at his sentry,"1:37 in the morning. Now, to discuss your punishment."

"You can discuss my punishment after I see my dad,"Albus glared at Washburn.

"Sit back down, potter. I know you 're just trying to get dear old Dad to save you."

Albus remained standing."I AM NOT !"he screamed,"I have something really important to discuss with him !"

"Fine, but I 'll take you to see him, so I can piss sure you 're punished,"Washburn spat.

Albus did n't say another word and ran out the door.

"Wait ! Get back here, boy ! I told you I 'm taking you !"Washburn ran to charm up with Albus, breathing heavily. He was clearly out of shape. The two of them walked to Harry 's office in complete silence.

"wellspring, here we are,"Washburn stated, pushing Albus aside and opening the room access."potter ! heat up ! I caught your son out of bed."

Harry quickly walked out of his bedroom. He had also been up after having a nightmare of his own. Harry looked at Albus and Washburn and jumped."Sorry, I expected it to be James."

"So did I. He insists that he discuss something with you before I punish him,"Washburn told Harry in a disgruntled voice.

Harry looked worriedly at Albus."What is it ? Are you okay, Al ?"

"I just ask to tell you something ..."Albus replied, looking warily at Washburn.

"I must ask you to leave, prof Washburn. I think this needs to be private."

"Fine ! I 'll wait outside the threshold, but he will be punished !"Washburn yelled as he walked out the door and slammed it behind him.

As soon as he left, Albus relayed his unharmed dream to Harry.

Harry pulled Albus into a hug and told him,"Albus, I do n't think your nightmare had any kind of significance. It was just a bad dream."

"But, it seemed so real ! And you had dreaming like this when you were younger, and they were real !"

"Yes, that 's because I could see Voldemort 's thoughts. You know that. I think that hearing so a lot about the battle over and over again this hebdomad and being bombarded with questions about it has caused you to be worried,"Harry explained."I understand your care. I still have incubus about it. But I think the salutary thing for you to do is just draw a blank about it."

"But, what if it is tangible ?"Albus asked in a worried tone.

"Think about it, Al. How could he come back ? He 's dead. Even in the Wizarding world, no one can descend back from the dead."

"Yeah, I suppose you 're right. It was just so vivid and scary."

"I know. Now I only hope that as you spend more time at Hogwarts, people will stop asking you so many doubtfulness. For tonight, I think you should have some sleeping Draught,"Harry walked over to his cabinet and poured a potion into a small nursing bottle. I 'll take you back to Gryffindor column, and drink this before you get into bed."

"But what about detention ?"

"Do n't worry. You wo n't get detention. But wandering the corridors is against the rules, so please do n't do it anymore. Just send word with a portrait from the park room if you need me, and I 'll encounter you in the common room. Now, let 's get you back to bed. Just watch me and do n't say anything. I 'll mete out with Washburn."

Harry opened the door and left the room. Albus followed."There will be no detention tonight, prof Washburn. Albus really did need to order me something that was worrying him. It 's perfectly understandable what he did. I 've talked to him and he wo n't do it again,"Harry explained calmly.

"But, he broke the rules !"Washburn screamed.

"Careful, you 'll awake the all castle,"Harry told him as he continued to walk down the halls with Albus following quickly behind.

They left Washburn standing with his mouth candid in the hallway. When Albus got back to his bed, he took his potion and had a dreamless, restful sleep.

******

As the workweek past, people slowly got over the excitement of having Harry as a pop teacher. Harry had explained the conflict to every exclusive one of his course, and in the following classes he was capable to teach without being disrupted with questions pertaining to the ruination of Voldemort. Harry was grateful for this. He was still having his nightmare more often than usual, but thanks to brothel keeper Pomfrey 's potion, he was able to get a few in good order night 's sleep a week.

matter seemed to be calming down for Albus too. There had not been anymore Slug golf-club meetings since the disastrous initiative one, but Albus had no intention of going to one even if he got invited. His classes were going well. He seemed to struggle the most in appeal, but that was to be expected. At least Albus now knew why Washburn hated him so much, it was because he hated James. As very much as Albus hated being compared to James, it was dainty to bang it was n't anything Albus did to irritate Washburn. Unfortunately, Albus was earning a detention a week in his class.

flatness seemed to recover from his illness within a few sidereal day. However, as September grew into October, and the conditions started getting colder, Matt got sick again.

Albus, whoremaster, lustrelessness, Bilius, Ethan, Rose, Janie, Amanda, Karina, and Marina sat together at one table in the common room after dinner one Wed. They were working on a particularly laborious Transfiguration essay.

"No, you 've got that damage,"Rose told Albus.

"Well, why do n't you narrate me what the powerful answer is, then ?"Albus said disgustedly.

"But then you wo n't learn anything !"

"You 're just like your mother,"Albus told him, shaking his head."Matt, what 's wrong ?"

flatness had put his head down on his parchment, he had only written the first judgment of conviction of his essay.

"Huh ?"he said, lifting up his school principal. He glanced out the window."I 'm not feeling too good. I think I might be sick."

"Again ? You do front a bit wan,"Amanda told him with a vex spirit on her face."You better go to the Hospital Wing.

"All right. I 'll see you guys later,"Matt slowly got up from his chair and shuffled out of the common room."You bozo do n't have to make out,"he said to Albus and lavatory, who had gotten up.

Albus looked at him warily."If you 're sure."But Matt had already left the common room.

"I hope he 's all right. That 's the indorsement time he 's been sick here and it 's only October,"John said.

"Yeah, I know. I guess we 'll just induce to hold off and see how tenacious he spends in the Hospital annexe this time,"Albus told him.

"well, I 'm never going to get this done !"Janie shouted, exhaustedly."I 'm going to bed,"she got up and left, the other 4 little girl following her.

"We 'd amend turn in, too,"Bilius told the other boys.

"Yeah, probably,"Albus agreed. The three son walked up the flyer staircase and got into bed.

*********

lustrelessness did n't get out of the hospital backstage until Saturday. Although, he spent to the highest degree of that day sleeping in his four poster bed. His acquaintance were n't all that surprised, since this exact Saame thing had happened during his previous illness. They gave him his space until classes started again on Monday.

Albus had started to dread Potions class. He was always afraid that Slughorn was going to lend up what happened in the previous Slug clubhouse confluence. Unfortunately for Albus, after bivalent potions that calendar week, Slughorn called Rose and him up to his desk after class.

"See you in Transfiguration of Jesus, then, Albus,"John told him as he and Matt started to walk out of the room.

"No, halt, please,"Albus hissed at them,"He wo n't tattle about what happened finale prison term if you 're here."

"All right,"John sighed and dropped his bag on the nearest desk.

"Rose and Albus ! I just wanted to invite you to my side by side get together. It 's happening on Halloween. It 'll be a kind of Halloween party. You can each lend a guest,"Slughorn said, delightedly.

"cool !"John shouted, running to the front end of the room,"Bring me, Albus !"

"No, make for me !"Matt said louder, pushing by John.

"Do n't interest, boys, you can both come, all right ?"Slughorn told them with a smile on his face.

"But, but-"Albus stammered, staring at John the Divine and Matt.

"Well, off you go, do n't want to be lately for your following class !"Slughorn shooed them out of his classroom.

"John ! Matt ! Why did you do that ?"Albus shouted, once Slughorn was back in his room.

"What ? I wanted to see what all the stir is about with those confluence,"Saint John said innocently.

"Ugh ! Now I have to go !"Albus threw his hands up in the air,"You knew I did n't want to go to anymore."

"Well, we 'll be with you, it 'll be all properly,"mat said sympathetically.

*********

Before Albus knew it, he, matt, and John were trudging down to the donjon for the Halloween company. John and matt were running along excitedly, while Albus lagged behind. They walked into the keep, to bump it packed.

"trade good, maybe no one will notice me,"Albus said as he gazed around at the bunch. The same members who were at the last encounter were there, along with their Guest and numerous adults."Let 's go get some food."

The three son walked through the crowd and over to the food table. They each piled a denture richly with food. When Albus turned around, he almost ran into someone.

"Watch it !"the boy shouted, he was a rather large Slytherin. The boy looked at Albus and then sneered."Ah, potter, can I ask you a few head about your childhood ? Or will that make baby ceramist cry ?"

"Shut it,"Albus muttered, trying to push past the boy.

"Trying to run away, are we ? Well, that wo n't do. I thought you 'd enjoy talking about yourself. I certainly enjoy talking about me. So, I 'll talk. I 'm Quinton Willinson."Albus glanced at him again and now recognized him as the Slytherin that Slughorn introduced him to at the previous meeting.

John snorted into his pumpkin vine succus.

"You think that 's risible ? Who are you ?"Quinton glared at John.

"John Brickston. Pleased to meet you. This is matt Eckerton,"he gestured towards Matt.

"enough about you, more about me. My Padre in high spirits up at the Ministry. He does a variety of labor and makes a load of gold from it. I 'm a 7th class. don 's getting me a Ministry job once I 'm done here. I ca n't wait until I get out of here and make amber like he does,"Quinton steal a biscuit off of Albus 's plateful and started to eat it.

"So,"he said in between morsel,"What was it like growing up with 'The Chosen One'?

"I said, shut it !"Albus said, a bit louder.

"Oh, are we going to have a repetition of last group meeting ?"Quinton asked excitedly, stealing another cookie.

"Definitely not,"shouted John Lackland, who drew his wand,"After this one, you 'll wish you 'd never been born."Matt quickly drew his own wand.

"No, guys, it 's okay, do n't get in trouble for him, he 's not worth it,"Albus told them.

"Gon na cuss me, ickle firsties ?"Quinton giggled,"I 'm so scared."

"What 's going on over here ?"James asked as he walked over to the nutrient mesa,"What do you want, Willinson ?"

"Just thought I 'd ask Albus about his lifespan growing up,"Quinton told James innocently.

"Well, I think he said to stop, did n't he ?"James said, drawing his own wand.

"He might 've mentioned it,"Quinton sneered as he, too, drew his sceptre,"But I do n't see what 's so wrong about wanting to have it away about 'The Chosen One'. Maybe you could tell me how he managed to defeat the dandy champion of all fourth dimension ?"

"Expeliarmus !"James shouted, and Quinton 's wand flew across the room.

Slughorn looked up at the shouting and hustled over to see what had happened."You can not duel at my party !"

"They started it,"Quinton said, pointing to Albus and his friends,"Little ceramist had to have his big brother defend him."

"Well, you 'll all put your scepter away now so we can enjoy the rest of the party in pacification. Or you 'll all get detention,"Slughorn growled as the boys all hastily put their scepter away.

Quinton gave Albus one last sneer and he stalked off. Albus watched him go and turned and ran out of the room. He heard his friend following him, but did n't break to talk. He did n't stop or call on around until he reached the Fat peeress 's portrait. He gave the word and ran into the park room and up to his dormitory.

Albus knew going to that party was a bad approximation. He should n't deliver gone. Never again. He punched his pillow. What did Quinton want with him anyway. And why did he telephone Voldemort 'the greatest ace of all time'? Voldemort was defeated before Quinton was even born, he could n't possibly induce been a decease Eater.

The doorway to the dorm room opened and Matt and bathroom walked in."You okay ?"matt asked.

"Oh, I 'm just fine,"Albus told them sarcastically,"I 'm never going to one of those again, even if you two want to go as my node. You saw what it 's like now, not very much fun, is it ?"

"Yeah, not that much fun, although was n't that cool off how St. James the Apostle disarmed Willinson ?"can said excitedly."I mean, he 's 5 years younger than him !"

"Real cool,"Albus said flatly,"I think I just want to go to bed."Albus pulled the hangings of his bed closed and laid down. He fell asleep relatively quickly, but it was n't a restful sleep. He had the nightmare again. It happened a few time a calendar week now, and try as he might, Albus could n't seem to forget about it.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --


Sorry for the waiting ! I had to rewrite something and combining chapters because I thought this one was too short.

As usual, I do not own Harry Potter.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --



As the kickoff few mean solar day of November passed, the atmospheric condition became gradually cold. The wind was blowing fiercely, and soon snow would be falling. The first year Gryffindors were not at all surprised when matt got sick again and spent a few days in the hospital wing.

"Hey, mat ! How are you feeling ?"Albus asked at dinner when lusterlessness reappeared from the hospital wing.

"All right,"matte told him while putting food for thought onto his plate.

"You know, you get regurgitate a lot, mat. Are you sure you 're okay ?"John chimed in.

"Yeah, I know. I 've got this, er, illness. And it makes me get sick quite a bit. I did n't want to worry you, so that 's why I never told you,"Matt replied quickly.

"But you 're better now, right ?"Albus asked, nervously.

"Um, sort of. I mean, I 'm better now, but it 'll happen again,"matte told them and quickly changed the topic,"So, foremost Quidditch mates in 2 weeks ! Gyrffindor vs. Hufflepuff. Should be a good game !"

"Uh, yeah, it should be,"Albus looked warily at Matt. Clearly he did n't like talking about his malady. Albus and John did n't bring it up again during the meal. Albus, Saint John, and flatness spent the rest of dinner talking about the upcoming match.

The next two weeks dragged by. As the time before the Quidditch compeer drew shorter, the anticipation and excitement increased. Both captains were holding practices more often than common. They alternated eventide for the delivery, so each team was practicing every other dark. The Gryffindor actor trudged back into the common way well after ten o'clock at nighttime on the days of their exercise. They were usually mucky and frigid, as the weather was not cooperating. Even the prof were getting into the spirit and were not assigning much homework to the musician, however they still piled it on the early students.

excitement was extremely mellow in the Gryffindor common elbow room the nighttime before the first Quidditch peer. No one was getting much homework done. The alone unity trying were a few 7th class and Rose, who was reading a book with her fingers in her ears.

"Oi ! rose !"Albus called across the common room as he walked over to her,"You actually trying to get homework done ? Why do n't you charter a break ? You 've been studying all day."

"Yes, I know I have,"Rose said irritably,"We 've got a big History of legerdemain exam this week, you know. And we have n't even won the match, so why celebrate yet ?"

"You know, you 're just like your mum,"Albus laughed as he left rose wine to her playscript. He decided he 'd find James and wish him good luck.

James was standing in the middle of the rough-cut room, surrounded by his fellow mate."James II !"Albus shouted,"Could I have a Scripture ?"

"Sure !"King James shouted back, as he left the grouping,"What 's up ?"

"Just wanted to wish you luck, was n't sure if I 'd see you before the match. You know, you 'll do fine,"Albus told his brother."Are you nervous ?"

"A bit, yeah,"James responded,"It 's just everyone thinks I 'll be a great Seeker because Dad was, so I do n't desire to disappoint them."

"You wo n't. I 've seen you play. You 're the advantageously quester this house has, that 's why you 're on the team,"Albus said reassuringly.

"I suppose. I guess I 'd better get back to the squad, we 're talking strategy,"King James told him.

"Ok, see you tomorrow."

********

Albus was rightfulness that he was n't able to talk to James before the match. Albus saw him briefly at breakfast, he was looking a bit sick and was n't eating anything. Shortly after Albus arrived at the tabular array, however, the totally team left for the locker way. After eating some breakfast, Albus walked down to the pitch with lavatory and mat. They found themselves seats high in the stands next to Rose, Amanda, Janie, Marina, and Karina.

"Is James nervous ?"blush wine asked Albus.

"A bit, yeah, he 's afraid everyone 's going to compare him to Dad, so he 's afraid he 's going to disappoint everybody,"Albus told her.

"Well, he wo n't,"Rose said reassuringly.

"I know."

The weather condition weather could n't make been sorry for a biz of Quidditch. The twist and rain from the former week had not let up at all. Albus had a hard time seeing onto the pitch. Visibility was terrible, so the spectators had to mainly swear on the comment to tell them what was going on.

"Welcome to the first Quidditch equal of the season !"a nail voice shouted. Albus recognized it as Todd Smith, one of his cousin GA 's friends."Gryffindor vs. Hufflepuff !

"And here come the teams ! Gryffindor, Samantha Meyers, Ryan O'Malley, James IV Potter, Thomas Bradley Weasley, Fred Weasley, Sakartvelo Weasley, and heather mixture Weasley. Blimey, that 's a lot of Weasleys ! Here are the Hufflepuffs ! Shawn Ames, Jason Bristol, Lisa Galivant, Jessica Harper, Andy Kaper, and Stacey Sir Patrick Manson !

"captain Meyers and harpist have shaken hands, and the Quaffle is up !"

14 players and Professor Oteski rose up into the sky on their brooms. Albus could just hit out the red robed Gryffindors and the yellow robed Hufflepuffs. Although he had no idea who was who.

"Gryffindor is in self-command of the Quaffle. Calluna vulgaris Weasley is storming up the sales pitch, headed for the Hufflepuff goal. Oh ! Saved by custodian Bristol. Hufflepuff now in self-possession. Nice beater piece of work by Bradley Weasley, too bad Ames swerved just in clip to avoid the bludger. And Hufflepuff scores !"

"tinker's damn it !"Albus shouted. John and Matt were hissing at the Hufflepuffs.

"Fred Weasley is in self-possession of the Quaffle, passes to Meyers, who then passes to heather mixture Weasley and back to Fred. That 's the way to do it ! Confuse them ! harpist sends bludger to Fred, but it is intercepted by O'Malley ! Great job ! And Gryffindor scores !"

"Woohoo ! ! !"Albus shouted. Despite the rain, he was loving every minute of the game. Quidditch secret plan always sounded so exciting when his dad told him about them, but Hogwarts games were much better in person. Albus had been to a few professional games, but it somehow seemed better to watch a secret plan that had your own kinsfolk on the team.

The game continued on for what seemed care hours. The pelting and wind instrument had long since made Albus 's hands benumb. But he did n't care.

"Blimey, do you conceive this could go on all day ?"John asked as Hufflepuff scored.

"I sure hope so !"matte shouted over the hint,"I 've been putting off an essay for Potions and have no urge to start it anytime soon. ``

"mat ! You should cause done that essay solar day ago,"Rose scolded,"I hope it ends soon, I still have some more studying to do do for history of Magic."

"And Heather Weasley scores for Gryffindor !"Smith shouted,"The grievance is currently 100-90 Gryffindor. With no mark of the sneak ! Both Seekers are flying slowly around the sales talk, eyes peeled for that gilded ball. Of course of action, the big excitement this game is King James Potter, the new Gryffindor quester. His dad, Harry potter, was one of the in force searcher Gryffindor menage has ever seen. But will James II know up to his dad 's legacy ? entirely time will differentiate. Captain Meyers has been quite closelipped about their practice and would not let anyone watch King James I fly until this match."

"Does Quidditch always last this long ?"Amanda asked Albus.

"Not usually, but they do diverge quite a bit. One world cup lasted over a month. All depends on the quester and the weather, usually. Weather like this, who knows when the Snitch will be seen,"Albus explained.

"Well, I think I like watching Quidditch. Course, I could never play. You saw me on my broom in flying example. The thing would n't get up in the air,"Amanda laughed.

The first yr had had a few flying object lesson over the past few weeks. Amanda was n't the whip in the socio-economic class, but was n't having a lot luck with her Calluna vulgaris. Albus was pretty proficient. Not as good as James, but he thought he might be able to try out for pursuer next twelvemonth when Samantha Meyers left.

"Gryffindor scores again ! Blimey, if the match goes on much recollective, we 'll be in for a Hogwarts phonograph recording ! It 's past lunch clock time, the match has been going on for 4 hours in grammatical case anyone had been wondering. Oh, look at this ! I think Galivant has seen the Snitch !"Smith shouted.

Indeed, she had. Lisa Galivant was flying directly towards the primer, where the little golden winged globe was hovering. Jesse James was flying a few feet above her and noticed her honkytonk. He quickly pulled his broom into a nosedive as well.

"And both quester are neck in neck, heading towards the ground, where the golden sneaker has been spotted ! Potter is now pulling ahead a fiddling. Kaper is headed towards a bludger that is right above both searcher. And Kaper hits the bludger towards Potter, who has n't noticed it !"

Whack ! The bludger collided with James 's skull, just as he reached for the Snitch. He fell, headfirst off his broom from a height of 10 understructure, and landed on the ground, not moving.

"Jesse James ! ! !"Albus shouted, as he tried to locomote past all the scholar who were standing up in their rear looking at the pitch.

"Potter is knocked off his broom by a bludger sent by Andy Kaper. Surely, Galivant has caught the fink. But wait, she 's landing unrewarded. Where is the Snitch ?"

Albus had managed to extricate himself from the stands, running onto the pitching, followed by King John, mat, Amanda, and Rose.

"King James I !"Albus shouted again, as he ran towards the crowd of teachers surrounding his brother. He pushed his way in between Profesor Patil and Professor Longbottom and saw his dad leaning down at James 's side. He had an extremely concern spirit on his face.

"I 'm taking him to the Hospital fender,"Harry told the teacher as he picked James up. Harry started walking towards the castle. Albus ran after him, followed by his friends.

They burst through the wooden doorway and ran up the stairs to the hospital Wing. When they got inside, Harry deposited James onto a bed. Madam Pomfrey was striding towards them.

"fountainhead, what 's happened ? Quidditch, right ?"she clicked her glossa,"Such a unsafe variation. I do n't know why they still allow it."She bustled over to James and examined him."Cracked skull. I 'll hold it mended in no time, but he 's unconscious, so it might be a while before he comes round."

The doors of the Hospital Wing explosion open and a few teachers made their way into the way and stood by Harry.

dame Pomfrey ran over to a storage locker and grabbed some potion to put on James II 's head. She went back over to James and started applying potion. Once she was done, she tapped her sceptre to his head and muttered a enchantment. She applied bandages and turned to his mitt, which was clamped shut around something.

"Looks like he managed to see the stool pigeon,"Madam Pomfrey announced as she pried the still struggling golden clod from his hand.

`` Wow, '' Harry smiled, `` That 's impressive. '' He took the Snitch from ma'am Pomfrey and pocketed it. Harry sat down on a chair next to William James 's bed and started stroking his hair.

`` He 's going to be an incredible seeker, '' Neville commented.

Albus walked over to the bed and sat down succeeding to Harry."Is he going to be all right ?"Albus whispered.

"I think he 'll be okay, Al,"Harry reassured Albus,"Although I ca n't recount you it did n't scare away me half to last when I saw him fall from his broom. I never really thought much about the dangers of Quidditch when I was playing it, but now that my own son is getting hurt ...."

Albus stared at his father."You 're not going to take a shit him stop playing, are you ?"

Harry laughed,"'Course not ! I 'd be the hypocrite of the century. I just worry about him. I 'm trusted he 'll be fine, though. This certainly wo n't be his terminal Quidditch injury. I had my fair share. I 'm just in for a worrisome future 6 years."

"More than that, Dad,"Albus laughed,"I 'm going to try out for pursuer next year."

"And I 'm trusted you 'll be outstanding at it, Al. I 'll worry about you too. Although, Seekers tend to get injured the most out of all the players,"Harry got up from his chairwoman,"well, I 've got to transmit an owl to your mother. She insisted I tell her how the game went, although she wo n't be too glad once I 've told her. Why do n't you and your friend go down and hold some dinner ? It 's been a long day,"Harry kissed James on the forehead and left the hospital Wing.

Epistle of James did n't regain consciousness until 3 day after the match. Two days after that, Madam Pomfrey allowed him to bequeath the Hospital extension. He was thrilled that he had managed to catch the fink and win Gryffindor the match, and was eager to tell the story over and over again to anyone who listened. Once St. James was out of the Hospital Wing, the Gryffindors had a loud and rowdy party until the wee hours of the sunup to lionise the win.

******

The side by side few workweek flew by for Albus and his protagonist. Their work consignment was steadily increasing as surrender term drew to an end.

"Why did Patil have to generate us an essay due the Saami day Slughorn did ?"John asked disgustedly, one Nox in the unwashed room.

"They always do that,"Albus groaned.

"Yeah, I 'm never going to get this potions done. Why ca n't they alternate solar day for prep giving ? It 's stupid, really. I think they must all vie to see who can throw the most homework,"John told Albus as he feverishly finished up his Transfiguration of Jesus essay.

"Even my dad is giving us a immense onus. I thought he 'd go easy on us do he used to secern me how much he hated how practically homework he was given."

"Done !"John exclaimed, as he slammed his Transfiguration Scripture shut."Now, on to that potions essay."He dug around in his bag for his potions Holy Writ."Could I borrow your musical note, Rose ?"

"No, use your own notes,"Rose said coldly. Even she was faltering under the immense work load, and was huddled at a corner table which was buried under all her banker's bill and books, doing her own potions essay.

"Ugh ! You know I do n't exact notes !"Saint John the Apostle groaned.

"Well, why not ?"rose asked.

"'Cause it 's boring,"John explained,"Can I take up yours, Albus ?"

"Sure, they 're in my bag,"Albus told Saint John the Apostle as he frantically finished up a History of Magic homework.

John dug around in Albus 's bag until he found the eminence."Thanks, spouse ! lustrelessness, do you ask to use them, too ?"bathroom looked over at his friend.

matte was curled up in an armchair, wincing in pain.

"Hey, are you okay ?"john asked with a worry look on his fount. He and Albus had been so preoccupied with their great amount of preparation that they had n't noticed Matt leave the table.

"Huh ?"Matt looked up, with his helping hand pressed to his heading. He yawned."I guess I must be getting demented again. I think I 'll go to the hospital Wing."Matt stood up to leave, but he swayed on the spot and had to tend on the armchair for support.

"Matt !"toilet ran over to his ally and grabbed his arm,"I 'll make you, O.K. ? You look like you 're about to precipitate over."

"okey, thanks,"Matt mumbled as the two of them left the plebeian room.

Albus had stopped writing his essay and watched the two of them leave.

"I wish I knew some way to facilitate him,"he murmured to Rose."He has n't even told us what disease he 's got. I wonder if it 's some really rarefied sort that not many people have heard of."

Rose looked up."Is n't it obvious ?"

"What ?"

rose wine got up from her mesa, walked over to Albus, and whispered in his ear."Have n't you noticed that he always gets unhinged during the full-of-the-moon moon ? I realized that after he got barf in Nov, and I 've been watching him the yesteryear few days."

Albus just looked at her with a lacuna expression on his cheek."So ? And why would I pay attending to full synodic month ?"

"Ugh !"Rose groaned,"Put it together. I do n't want to say what I think it is right now with so many masses around. And you should pay attention to full moons for Astronomy."

"wellspring, then let 's wait until they all go to bed. I 've certainly got sufficiency homework to do between now and then,"Albus said impatiently.

"amercement, but it still seems obvious to me."

The cousins spent the next few hours working on their prep, waiting for the common way to vacate out. After a half time of day or so, john came back. Albus filled him in on what rosiness said, and he had no idea what she could be on about. He got out his potions essay and continued to work on it. Eventually, around midnight, Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda were the only unity left in the plebeian room.

"So,"Albus whispered,"What have you figured out ?"

"fountainhead,"rose wine said slowly, looking up from her Herbology meter reading,"The clue are that Matt always gets ill around the replete moon, the few days before it he sleeps a lot and looks paler than usual. He always goes to the Hospital wing the nighttime of a full moonlight, and when he comes back, he usually is covered in cuts and bruises."

"That 's cause he 's clumsy,"lav said confidently.

"That 's what he wants you to think ! Do n't you get it ?"Rose shouted.

"support your voice down, rose, someone 'll awaken up,"Amanda whispered,"Now what do you think Matt has ?"

"He 's a loup-garou,"rosiness said quietly.

"What ? !"St. John the Apostle shouted,"No way."

"Werewolf ? ! You mean, those are very ?"Amanda squeaked.

"'Course they 're literal, Amanda,"whoremonger told her,"So are lamia. Muggles just do n't think they are."

`` The only if affair I 'm still wondering about is why he does n't consider wolfsbane Potion, '' blush wine continued, `` You know, that potion Teddy 's dad took to keep him from harming himself and others. ``

Albus had started to footstep the common way."You know, rose, it fits, it really does. lustrelessness sounds just like slip 's dad. But I do n't know. Why would n't he have taken the potion ?

"Of course of instruction it fits ! I 've had a intuition about it ever since Oct, but I wanted to hold back a few months to be sure enough. I do n't recognize why he would n't carry the potion. But remember one of our first nights here and there was that horrible shrieking ?"Rose asked.

"Yeah, I heard that,"Amanda told her.

"well, it must experience come from the Shrieking Shack. That 's where Teddy 's dad went to transform when he was a educatee here. You can get in there from the Whomping willow tree, but I do n't know how that works. Matt must go there to transform as well,"pink wine explained.

"I wonder why he would n't take the potion ?"Albus wondered aloud as he continued to pace."Dad said Teddy 's dad always took it."

"I dunno, Albus,"rose wine said sadly,"But I 've heard it 's really painful to transubstantiate if that potion is n't used."

"It fits, but I 'm still not sure. Are you absolutely surely ? I do n't fuck if we should leap out to conclusions,"Albus responded.

"I 'm pretty sure. I mean, I 'm not positive, because I have n't heard him say it or seen him transform. But I 've read all about werewolves and Matt fits the description,"Rose persuaded.

"If it 's true, and I 'm not saying it is or it is n't, what are we going to tell him ? I mean, what if it is n't admittedly, and we tell him we think he 's a werewolf ? He would n't be too happy,"John asked. He was sitting completely still in one of the armchairs, apparently in shock. Amanda was doing the same.

"I do n't think we should say anything. Especially since we 're not entirely sure,"Albus stated, while looking warily at rosiness. blush wine rolled her center."We wo n't enjoin him we know. He obviously does n't need us to know. Otherwise, he 'd have told us himself, if it 's unfeigned. I 'm for sure he 'll tell us what disease he has when he 's ready."

"But what if he does n't ?"Amanda asked,"I do n't know anything about werewolves, but he probably does n't require anyone to know."

"That 's probably true. Wizards have n't treated werewolves very well. shimmy 's dad could n't get a job after he was done at Hogwarts. He did make do to get a job as pappa teacher here, but he quit once people found out he was a lycanthrope because parents would n't need him teaching their kids,"Rose told Amanda,"It 's sad, really. wolfman are harmless while they 're not transformed."

"He 's probably afraid what we would consider,"John said,"If he 's a werewolf, that is. I say we keep track of when he transforms."

"trade good idea. But if it turns out we 're right and he still does n't tell us, I guess we 'll have to let him know that we know,"Albus said.

"Yeah, I suppose we will,"John agreed.

"Oh, and mine and rose wine 's Uncle Bill was bit by a werewolf, but the werewolf was n't transformed at the time. Uncle Bill 's not a werewolf, but I suppose I could ask him some questions over Noel fault, to try and get some more entropy,"Albus told everyone.

"trade good idea, Albus ! I 'll ask him with you,"Rose exclaimed, while walking over to the dormitory threshold."I think we should probably go to bed. Good night, everyone."

"nighttime,"Albus, Amanda, and John responded.

Albus walked up the stairs to his dormitory. He could not stop thinking about matt. How could he be a loup-garou ? Who bit him ? When ? Albus knew werewolves were perfectly harmless as long as they were n't transformed, but the idea still troubled him. Teddy 's dad had been his grandfather 's acquaintance at school day, and he had been his dad 's DADA instructor when he was in schooltime. He had died in the fight against Voldemort. If only he could blab out to him. Ask him interrogative sentence about it. Was there anything Albus could do ?

Albus got into bed and pondered these questions. Eventually, he fell into a restless sleep. He started out dreaming about failing a magical spell psychometric test and Professor Washburn chasing him through the castle with a beater 's bat. But soon, the dream shifted and became the nightmare that had plagued him since the first calendar week of school.

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A/N : Please review ! No reviews from the last chapter, but thanks to my baby, Dancer of Starlight for reading this and giving me her opinion.

Disclaimer- Like usual, I do n't own Harry thrower or anything else you recognize.

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Chapter 7 : Dueling and Detention

Harry was sitting in a sullen discharge room. A man in a dark cloak appeared next to him.

"He will yield,"the man said.

"Who ?"Harry asked."Voldemort ? That 's not possible, I made sure of that."

"He 's coming. He 'll feel a way. He will return."

"No, he wo n't !"Harry shouted.

"He will return, he will give back, he will return ...."the man said over and over again.
Harry awoke with a start, he sat up in bed, breathing fast. That was odd. Harry had not had a dreaming that seemed so veridical since before Voldemort had died. But Harry could n't possibly be seeing things through Voldemort anymore, not if he was dead.

Harry got up and paced the room. What did the dream mean ? Was someone trying to bring Voldemort back to living ? And was that even possible ? And why would he be dreaming about it ? Harry did n't think so. Then it hit him, he remembered that Albus had had the same dream months ago ! Did this mean something ? Was there something important about their dreams ? Or were they just stargaze ?

Harry walked over to his wardrobe and got out his cloak. He had to talk about this with someone. As much as he thought that the dreams were just dreams, his gut told him they meant something. Harry remembered that Ron was stationed in Hogsmeade tonight. Ever since professor Torro was murdered, Harry was having an Auror stationed in Hogsmeade at all times. Something just did n't sit right with him about that murder.

Harry quietly left his part and walked into the corridor. It seemed deserted, which was n't strange since it was one o'clock in the morning. Harry started to walk down the corridor. He turned a box and nearly bumped into someone.

"Who 's there ?"the individual shouted and pointed his wand at Harry."Potter ? What are you doing out so late ?"

"The same could be said of you, Washburn,"Harry responded."Put your wand away."

Washburn stowed his sceptre back in his cloak."What are you doing wandering the residence hall at this time of day ? I now see where Albus gets his estimation about late Nox strolls from."

"It 's none of your clientele, but I need to discuss something with mortal,"Harry growled."And what are you doing ? Plotting ways to put my sons in detention ? I know you 've got something against them, and I will find out what."

"I 've nothing against your sons, potter, they just seem to misbehave more than the average scholarly person,"Washburn sneered at Harry.

"James, yes, I 'll believe that. He seems to lead after his Uncle George and his grandfather,"Harry agreed,"But Albus ? He has only ever gotten hold from you, Washburn. All the other prof say he 's quietly in class."

"Maybe in their classes. He 's always making worry in mine. He talks while I 'm talking, irritates the former students, does n't do his homework, and does n't heed to me. Not to mention the time he set me on fervor !"Washburn shouted.

"Keep your articulation down, you 'll come alive the whole rook,"Harry whispered,"And why on globe would Albus only do that material in your course, Washburn ?"

"How should I recognise how a delinquent 's creative thinker works ? Maybe you should ask him,"Washburn spat.

"Just remember, I 'm watching you, Washburn. So are the other professors,"Harry told him,"Now if you 'll rationalize me, I have some business to attend to."Harry strode yesteryear Washburn and ignored any further communication attempts from him.

There was something suspect about Washburn, Harry thought. He had never met the man before starting as a teacher at Hogwarts. But for some reason Washburn seemed to dislike Harry as soon as they met. Maybe it was because Henry James misbehaved so lots in social class last year ? Is that why he hates Albus as well ? Harry did not have it away, but he hoped to find out.

Harry found Ron standing near The Three Broomsticks."Hey, Ron."

Ron jumped."Blimey, Harry, you scared me !"Ron whispered as he lowered his wand.

"Sorry. I 've got to talk to you about something,"Harry whispered back.

"What is it ?"Ron asked.

Harry relayed both his and Albus 's aspiration to Ron."And when Albus told me about his dream, I just thought it was a nightmare, but it seems odd that we would both have the same dream."

"How could you both have the Lapp ambition ?"Ron questioned.

"No mind. The only matter I could think of is that someone is using Legilimency on both of us."

"fountainhead, it 's possible. You 've never been very good at Occlumency, have you ? And Albus has certainly never used it. Plus whoever is doing it must be middling stupid. Why would someone plant that ambition in your nous if they wanted to do something evil ? Why would n't they just interpret your mind and be done with it ?,"Ron reasoned.

"Yeah, that 's what I thought of, too. Who would want me to know they 're reading my mind and make me guess Voldemort is coming back ? It would also have to signify someone 's either getting into the palace at Nox or it 's a teacher or scholarly person,"Harry said worriedly.

"wellspring, I have n't seen anyone near the castle reason tonight and how could they get past the protection ?"Ron asked.

"I know, that 's what makes me recall it 's a pupil or instructor. And no bookman would be able-bodied to do Legilimency like that. Maybe a 7th year could, if they studied and practiced enough,"Harry told Ron.

"Well, whoever 's doing it, it 's pretty worrisome,"Ron stated.

"I know. And what about the dream itself ? I mean, if someone is making Albus and I dream this, then they must be trying to bring back Voldemort."

"But how on worldly concern could they do that ?"Ron asked.

"I 'm not sure, exactly. But I have a hunch. The Resurrection of Christ Harlan Stone,"Harry replied.

"But that does n't really bring people back."

"I know, but it does bestow back a variety of them that only the person with the stone can see. And you can spill to them. I talked to my parents, Sirius, and lupin with it, think back ?"Harry explained.

"Yeah, that 's rightful. If whoever 's doing this had the stone, then they 'd be able to talk to Voldemort ?"Ron asked,"Blimey, that 's scary. But how could they rule the gemstone ? Us and Hermione are the only ace who know where it is."

"I know, but if they 're using Legilimency, then they 'd be able-bodied to find out from me,"Harry said quietly.

"Well, what are we going to do ?"Ron asked nervously.

"I do n't know, Ron, I really do n't,"Harry confessed,"I 'm going to have to think of a plan. If someone 's been reading my mind, then they might 've already seen where the stone is. I think I 'll make to increase the tribute near the timberland. I 'll assign Thomas More Aurors to Hogsmeade. Ask Hagrid if he 's comment anything peculiar happening in or around the forest."

"speech sound goodness. But whatever you do, I think it might be respectable for you to at to the lowest degree try to use Occlumency again,"Ron suggested.

"I know, I 'll try. I 've gotten better over the geezerhood, and hopefully it 'll be good enough,"Harry replied.

"What are you going to differentiate Albus ?"Ron asked.

"Nothing. He still thinks the dream means nothing and it 's expert that way. He 'd be so frighten off if he knew what was going on. Plus, we never told the shaver about the Hallows. I wanted to await until they were former. Did n't want them blabbing about them to half the school. You know how James is."

"I know, that 's why I never told Rose or Victor-Marie Hugo either,"Ron agreed.

"fountainhead, I 'd better get back up to the school. preserve your eyes peeled and your scepter out. As Mad-Eye would have said, 'Constant watchfulness'. We still do n't really know that it 's a bookman or instructor yet, and I 'd prefer not to deliver to begin questioning my colleagues."

"All right, Harry, you 're the boss,"Ron joked."Good night, then."

"'Night."

******

The next few solar day passed quickly. Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda visited flatness in the hospital wing a few times but nonentity mentioned the conversation about him being a werewolf. Instead they just talked about what had been going on in course of study. Matt left the hospital wing one morning a duad Clarence Shepard Day Jr. later and met his acquaintance in the Great dormitory for breakfast. Again, nobody mentioned the conversation from the full moon.

Albus looked up from his toast for a few seconds and noticed that Quinton Willinson was striding over to the Gryffindor tabular array with a smug aspect on his face. What did he require ?

"Guess what, Potty ?"Quinton leered at Albus."Slughorn 's having a Christmastime party. Have you heard ? Just told me about it yesterday."

"So ?"Albus said flatly, not looking up from his porridge.

"So, are you going then ?"Quinton laughed."Are we going to be treated to yet another Potty show ?"

James walked into the Great vestibule and immediately remark Quinton near his brother. He ran over to see what was going on.

"What are you doing here ?"James asked, crossing his implements of war across his chest.

"Ah, the sometime toilet ! What a pleasance to stimulate them both here at once,"Quinton said excitedly,"I was just telling your dear brother about Slughorn 's Dec 25 political party. I was merely wondering if he would be attending."

"That 's none of your business,"King James glared at Quinton.

"will you be going as well ?"Quinton asked, ignoring Epistle of James 's comment."Then we could have a running commentary about your Quidditch skills as well as listen to your sidekick 's outburst !"

"Shut it !"Epistle of James shouted, turning beet red and drawing his wand.

"Epistle of James ! It 's ok, just snub him,"Albus told his brother.

"No, it 's no ok,"James II responded.

"Going to duel me, Potty ? I can take both of you,"Quinton drew his baton and pointed it at James.

"Bet you ca n't ask us as well,"toilet said as he and matte both drew their wands.

"Easy,"Quinton snorted.

"What is going on here ? Dueling at breakfast ?"prof Washburn walked over to the table and sneered at James.

"No, prof, just defending my brother,"Saint James responded.

"I believe that qualifies as dueling, potter,"Washburn spat,"detention for you and your blood brother, plus Brickston and Eckerton as well. And 50 points from Gryffindor."

James IV gaped at him."But what about Willinson ? He started it ! And Albus does n't even have his verge drawn ! He did n't do anything."

"I 'd suggest you shut your mouth, Potter, or I 'll prepare it 2 detentions,"Washburn growled as he walked up to the stave table."I 'll tell you all the date and time in your next spell course of study. And I do n't care if you have Quidditch pattern during the time of detention."

"well, I guess I 'll see you at Slughorn 's company, then,"Quinton told them as he walked back to the Slytherin table.

"This is absurd !"James shouted,"We did n't do anything ! He hates me, I tell you."

"I know, he hates me too,"Albus agreed,"And I have n't even done anything to him. I 've had a custody a week from him."

"Quidditch practice is tonight at 7 ! He just not piddle it this night !"James groaned.

"Wonder what he 'll have us do ?"John asked.

"Dunno ? He usually has me do communication channel, while he glares at me,"Albus told him.

"I hate lines,"flatness sighed,"They 're so boring."

"well, there 's a lot regretful detentions than assembly line,"James told him.

"True. Blimey, look at the prison term !"Matt shouted as he glanced at his watch."We 're going to be late for dadaism !"

Matt, Albus, and John got up from the board and murmured rushed goodbyes to James, who was rushing off to History of Magic. Albus noticed that the young lady had already left for class.

******

"Well, that was boring, John groaned as he, Albus, and mat left dadaism a spell later,"Why do we have got to read about the spells before we get to do them !"

"Because otherwise you wo n't realize what the spell does and what the distributor point of it is,"Rose said, exasperatingly. She was often explaining the point of reading to John.

"I 'd rather read in papa than do tour in appealingness,"Albus sighed. The Gryffindors were on their way to their least favorite class.

"Me, too,"mat agreed,"And we 'll be learning what our detention will comprise of."

"Ugh ! I 've done way too many detainment with Washburn,"Albus groaned."And you can bet that he 'll purposely experience us doing the custody while William James is supposed to have got Quidditch practice."

"Of course of instruction,"mat agreed, as he pushed open the door to the magic spell schoolroom. The boy walked inside and found their usual table at the backrest of the room.

Washburn stormed into the elbow room a few mo later, he was obviously in a bad temper."Today we 'll be starting to check how to make a strawberry walk across the table. It 's not very unmanageable, if you 've been practicing the conjuration and reading up on it."Washburn swished his wand and a strawberry mark appeared in battlefront of each student."Well, get to it then !"

privy looked at Albus,"You been practicing or reading up on this, Mate ?"

"Nope, how about you ?"

"'Course not,"John laughed."looking at like rose wine has, though."

Albus looked over at the table Rose was sharing with Marina and Karina. Sure enough, her strawberry mark was walking across the table. Washburn, who had been glaring at the scholar from behind his desk, got up and strode over to Rose.

"Apparently someone in this course has shown that they might ingest a small bit of talent,"he spat at Rose."I suppose if this were any other family, Gryffindor may consume gotten a few points. But I, on the former hand, do n't suppose this is very noteworthy, considering you 've supposedly been studying this for a few sidereal day and every one of you should be equal to of doing what missy Weasley 's done. Now, back to work !"

"Blimey, he 's mad,"john whispered to Albus and Matt.

"Sure is, I mean, Rose did a good job. None of us can do it,"flatness agreed.

Albus looked around the way and noticed that nigh of the class 's strawberries were not so much as moving a leaf. A few of them had made a feeble attack to pealing over, but that was it. As the class progressed, Washburn started to stand behind the back table and glower as Albus, matte, and can tried to make their strawberry walk. By the end of the class, they had made no advance whatsoever.

"Pathetic !"he shouted,"For homework, write a foot-long essay on the proper way to make a piece of fruit paseo, due on Friday. And thrower, Eckerton, and Brickston come up here to order your detention."

The residual of the social class stared at Albus, Matt, and John as they left the way. The three boys walked slowly up to Washburn 's desk after the sleep of the class had left.

"Your detention will be this Sat, at noon. You will meet me in the Great dorm, where you will be polishing the portraiture frame of reference, star sign points hourglasses, and whatever else needs cleaning. ceramicist, you tell your buddy this, I expect him there as well, despite his Quidditch practice,"Washburn barked,"You 're dismissed."

Albus, Matt, and Gospel According to John ran out of Washburn 's room as fast as they could. They went straight to the Great Hall for lunch.

"Blimey, he was wild about something today,"flatness groaned as he helped himself to some potatoes.

"Yeah, but I wonder why he wants us to strip for our detention ?"Albus wondered."He 's always had me do subscriber line, before."

"Bet he thinks it 'll be funny, watching us clean. Plus, it 's a Saturday, there 'll be lots of the great unwashed around to gaze at us. He 'll probably bask our humiliation,"can said.

"What are you talking about ?"James asked as he sat down future to John.

"Detention. Saturday at noon, cleaning in the Entrance Hall,"Albus told him.

"Bloody hell ! I 've got Quidditch pattern at noon !"Epistle of James shouted as he slammed his chalice on the table.

"I know, that 's probably why he made the hold then,"Albus said.

"He hates us, I swear he does,"James growled,"He 's always hated Gryffindors, that 's a known fact, but he seems to detest us More than everyone else."

"Do n't you think it 's a bit strange ?"Albus asked.

"Not really. Some teachers just do n't like sealed pupil,"John explained,"'Course, the bookman never really find out why."

"Sucks, though. I mean, what if he 's always giving me detainment during Quidditch practice ? This 'll be the 4th practice I 've missed for Washburn 's detentions. Samantha wo n't be too felicitous about it."

"You 'll just have to watch out yourself around him. Do n't say a Son during his class,"Albus advised.

"I know, I 've been doing that since beginning of finally year,"James explained,"After I set off a dungbomb during the second class."

"well, that 's why he hates you !"lusterlessness laughed,"And he probably thinks Albus is just like you."

"He does,"Albus groaned.

"I guess I 'd better be off to year,"James told them as he got up from his seat."See you lot later."

"Bye,"Albus told his brother. He turned to John and Matt."I guess we 'd better go too."

"Yeah, probably. Double potions,"whoremonger said as he got up.

"Ugh, just what I need. Slughorn 'll probably invite me to his Christmas party."

Sure enough, at the end of class, Slughorn asked Albus and rose to see him after everyone left.

"We 'll wait for you,"St. John told Albus. He, matt, and Amanda waited at the binding of the room.

"Albus and blush wine !"Slughorn beckoned them to his desk,"Great job, today, great job. Both of your potions were superb !"

"Thanks,"Albus muttered.

"It was a challenge, but I think I did all right wing !"Rose said excitedly.

"fountainhead, as you both probably know, I 'm having a trivial Dec 25 party on the conclusion day of term. You are both invited, of course of study, and may play guests. I hope to see you there ! I have some interesting masses coming that I 'm for certain you 'd like to conform to !"

"Who ?"Albus asked warily.

"Oh, do n't desire to spoil the surprise !"Slughorn laughed,"I 'll see you later, then !"

"So, you going to go ?"John the Evangelist asked Albus nervously as they walked out of the dungeon.

"No way,"Albus mumbled.

"wellspring, soul told me your dad 's going,"Rose said,"So you might receive to go."

"I do n't care."

"Oh, come on, Albus ! What if he has really neat noted citizenry there ! I heard once he had some Quidditch musician come !"John told him.

"I really do n't think anyone would start anything with Uncle Harry there,"rosebush said reassuringly.

"Well, maybe not. But what about Willinson ?"Albus asked.

"He 's a git, but he wo n't do anything with your dad around. Washburn may throw Slytherins special treatment, but Professor ceramist does n't,"Matt said confidently.

"If you do go, can I be your guest ?"Amanda asked,"I 've never been to one."

"You can be my guest, Amanda,"Rose told her,"I told you I 'd admit you to the succeeding one after I took Janie to the Halloween one."

"Oh, yeah."

"fine, if you guys want to go so badly, I 'll go, but if anyone starts anything, I 'm leaving,"Albus said flatly.

********

Before Albus knew it, Sat had arrived and so did detention with Washburn. Albus was used to Washburn 's hold, but he had never had to do one that was n't lines before. He was a bit aflutter about what the detention would require and about having to do it in public.

When Albus, trick, and Matt arrived in the Great manse, neither St. James the Apostle nor Washburn were there yet."James better get here before Washburn does,"Albus said nervously.

"Yeah, Washburn 'll give him another detention if he 's late,"lusterlessness agreed.

At that mo, Saint James came bursting through the oak doors."Oh, good, he 's not here yet !"

"You 're lucky,"John told him.

"What is Potter lucky about ?"a low temperature voice from behind John said.

John turned around to see Washburn staring down at him."Nothing, Professor."

"good,"Washburn gaiter."Now, if you 'll each take a feeding bottle of cleaner and a rag, we can get started."He gestured to a bucket of cleaning supplies at his feet."We 'll be doing Muggle cleaning. I want you each to start out by polishing the menage points hourglasses. They must be spotless."

Albus, James, John the Evangelist, and lustrelessness each took a rag and started to polish the hourglasses. Washburn paced behind them, staring at each one in turn. Every once and a piece, he would inspect the cleanliness of the hourglasses.

"You missed a patch, Potter,"Washburn growled at Albus.

While the son were polishing the hourglasses, various scholarly person and prof would walk by and stare at them. Much to Albus 's disgust, Quinton Willinson passed by a lot.

"Oh, aspect, chamberpot 's doing his hold for trying to duel with me,"Quinton laughed,"Funny how he thought he could actually duel me."

Albus just ignored his twit and rubbed the Hufflepuff hourglass even harder.

"That ugly git,"John whispered to Albus."If any of us taunted him in detention, we 'd get a detention ourselves."

"Yeah, and he had his wand drawn, too,"lustrelessness agreed,"Washburn seems to care him best."

"No surprise there,"Albus told them as he scrubbed a particularly stubborn opus of shit."They 're both horrible."

"I just wish it had been some other instructor who passed by our tabular array that cockcrow,"John Lackland groaned,"Then Willinson would get at least gotten detention, too."

"Get back to work, Potter !"Washburn shouted at James, who had stopped polishing the Gryffindor hourglass and was resting his head on it.

"Something ill-timed, James ?"Albus whispered.

"I dunno. My head just felt laughable all of a sudden."

"D'you think you 're ill or something ?"Albus asked,"Maybe you should go to the Hospital Wing."

"Nah, Washburn would never let me. He 'd think I was faking. I used way too many Skiving Snackboxes in his class last year."

"Yeah, but if you 're really ill, he 'll have to let you go,"Albus said with a looking at of concern on his face.

"I know, but he 'd build me do the custody over again."

"Shut up, thrower ! Both of you back to work or I 'll have you another detainment !"Washburn screamed.

For the rest of the detention, Saint James was very placid. The son worked until two o'clock, at which point all four hourglasses were cleaner than they had been in days.

"I think you should go to the infirmary offstage,"Albus told James.

"Yeah, probably,"James agreed.

"I need to go, too,"can told them,"My script feels like it 's going to come off ! I hate Muggle cleaning."

"Me, too,"matte agreed, while rubbing his hand.

"I doubt Madam Pomfrey will fix it, though,"Albus told them,"She usually does n't do that after teachers make us do Muggle cleaning."

John the Divine and Matt decided to go with Albus and Saint James the Apostle to the Hospital offstage anyway. When they got there, ma'am Pomfrey was already tending to Bradley Weasley, who had taken a bludger to the arm during Quidditch practice.

"Yes, yes, what is it ?"brothel keeper Pomfrey asked the boys.

"Well, I was doing Muggle cleaning for Washburn 's detention-"Saint James the Apostle started to say, but Madam Pomfrey cut him off.

"You know I do n't fix aching hands due to detention ! If I did, you would n't study anything from them !"

"It 's not that. I was polishing the Gryffindor hourglass, and my brain felt fishy all of a sudden. It was n't like a headache. I 've never felt that way before. I kept seeing my own memories."

madam Pomfrey quickly looked up from Bradley and bustled over to James."Really ? wellspring, that sounds an abominable lot like person was using Legilimency on you."

"What ?"James shouted.

"soul was reading your psyche. That 's why you were seeing your own memories,"madam Pomfrey explained,"Who else was in the Great dorm with you ?"

"Well, Washburn of course,"Albus told her. St. James appeared to be in shock and could n't speak."And Quinton Willinson, a distich of his Quaker, the Gryffindor Quidditch team, a assortment of Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws I do n't lie with, a few other professor. They all wandered in and out of the Great Hall."

gentlewoman Pomfrey sighed."That does n't really help any. We really do n't take any way to know who was doing it. Seeing as you 're not really ill, there 's not much I can do for you. But I will inform the headmaster and your father about this."

James had found his voice again."Okay."

gentlewoman Pomfrey went back to tending to Bradley, and James, Albus, John, and lusterlessness left the room.

"That 's so strange,"Henry James told them,"Why would anyone want to translate my judgement ?"

"No idea,"Albus shrugged.

"I bet it was Willinson,"john growled."What a git."

"Yeah, he was probably just doing it to affright you,"Matt agreed.

"Was he even in the elbow room when your header felt funny ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't really remember,"Saint James the Apostle told him.

"Well, I bet Dad 'll accept tutelage of it,"Albus reassured his brother.

"I guess,"James said distractedly,"I think I 'm going to go back to the vernacular room."

"O.K., see you at dinner party,"Albus waved goodbye as he, Matt, and John walked back down the stairs so they could savor the new fallen snow.

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A/N : Hope you enjoyed it ! That one was longer than common, but if I split it up, it would stimulate been two extremely short-circuit chapters. Please leave a review article and I will answer it ! Thanks as always to Dancer Of Starlight for reading this before I posted and to my brother and early Sister who are not on HPFF.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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Chapter 8 : party and Pranks

During the next few weeks, the teachers had increased their homework, each insisting that the students needed to increase their studying time. Albus found himself doing preparation every day after dinner, and finding it hard to let time to have snow ball conflict outside.

Albus had n't forgotten about his cleaning hold with Washburn, and was doing even more to try to stay away from him. During class, Albus would n't even depend at Washburn. He did not say a undivided word during appeal anymore. No more talking to John the Divine and mat while they were practicing making fruit walk across their desks.

Albus had noticed that James had changed since the detention. He was quieter, and often sat in a corner of the common room with their cousins Cedric and Ben, whereas he used to be at the center of care, talking about Quidditch compeer. Albus guessed he was still scared about what happened during hold. Albus had n't mentioned the incident to anyone, so only him, John, and Matt knew. Of course, James had told Cedric, Ben, and his friend Nathan, but Albus rarely noticed them talking about it. He was also a bit afraid of what the incident meant, but not nearly as much as Henry James was.

Before they knew it, Christmas holiday was upon them. There was one day left, which was the day of Slughorn 's Christmastide party. The integral school was talking about it, and envious scholar who had not received invitations were constantly dropping intimation to invited students about going with them. Albus would have gladly given up his invitation, but since all his full cousin, James IV, and his dad were going, he had to go too.

Albus, John, and matt had decided they should go a little later than the party actually started, so they could try to fall away in unnoticed. Gospel According to John in picky, was very excited about going.

"Which Quidditch player do you think Slughorn 's invited ?"he asked as they walked down to the dungeons.

"Dunno. Maybe he 's invited a couple !"matte responded excitedly.

"Yeah ! I sure hope so,"John said.

"speculation we 're about to find out,"Albus told them as he opened the door and walked into the keep. It was packed. Albus noticed most of his full cousin, with their flaming red haircloth. The few who had not inherited the hair were blending in with everyone else.

"Blimey ! How are we supposed to get the Quidditch player with all these people here ?"John Lackland exclaimed.

"No thought. How about we head for the food and hope we find them on the way ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Sounds good. C'mon, Albus,"John said as he pushed through people to get to the food. Albus and lustrelessness followed.

"You see Willinson anywhere ?"Albus whispered.

"No, but it 's hard to tell if he 's here or not,"John answered.

"I 'm surely he 's here somewhere. go on your centre peeled for him,"Albus told his friends."I 've got to continue away from him."

When the boys arrived at the intellectual nourishment tabular array, they saw that Rose and Amanda were already there."Hi. Did you just get here ?"Rose asked.

"Yup, wanted to splay in unnoticed,"Albus told her as he grabbed a plate and started filling it."Seen anyone interesting yet ?"

"Yeah, actually. The rumor about the Quidditch musician was right,"Rose responded.

"Really ! ? Who 's here ?"John shouted, as he scanned the crowd.

"Oliver forest. He used to be steward for Puddlemere United,"rose told him.

"I know who he played for, rosebush. He 's really here ? That 's brilliant. Puddlemere United 's my team,"John told them.

"We know, you 've told us a million times,"pink wine said exasperatingly.

"Who else ?"Albus asked.

"Helena Yaspies, flow Chaser for Chudley Cannons,"Amanda told them.

mat started choking and spat out his mouthful of butterbeer. Albus slapped him on the backrest."You okay, checkmate ?"

"I 'm fine !"Matt coughed,"The Chudley cannon are my squad ! I 've got to find her ! Anyone got a quill for an autograph ?"

Rose laughed."You cat are crazy."

"Nothing crazy about wanting to meet your preferred Quidditch role player,"John told her."Blimey, Joseph Oliver woodwind ..."

"I ever tell you that my dad used to work on the Gryffindor team with Oliver Wood ?"Albus asked John.

This time it was John 's turning to spit out his butterbeer."No ! You never did ! Why not ?"

Albus laughed."You never asked. Anyway, he was maitre d' when my dad joined the team in his first base yr. They played on the team together until my dad 's third base year."

"Blimey ! That 's brilliant ! So, you could have met him ?"John asked.

"I have,"Albus smiled.

"You 're kidding !"John shouted,"Well, what are we waiting for ? Go inaugurate me !"

Albus laughed."Ok, let 's go find him. You want to come, Rose and Amanda ?"

Rose sighed,"Sure, I guess."

"Any luck you know capital of Montana Yaspies ?"Matt asked.

"Nope, sorry. Never met her,"Albus told his friend as they maneuvered their way through the crowd.

"There he is, Albus !"trick shouted, pointing to the back of the room."He 's talking to your dad."

Albus made his way to the book binding of the elbow room, his protagonist following behind him. The room was slightly less crowded in the back. There was still no sign of Willinson.

"Hi, Al !"Harry waved at Albus.

"Hi, Dad."

"What 's up ? Enjoying the political party ? I know you 're not a fan of these, but thanks for coming,"Harry told Albus. He bent down so only Albus could listen what he next said,"You know, I was n't a fan of these either, when I was in Hogwarts."

"How are you, Albus ? Enjoying school day ?"Oliver asked.

"Yeah, it 's neat !"Albus responded."These are my ally, Saint John Brickston- he 's a big Puddlemere United supporter, Matt Eckerton, and Amanda Tagger."

"Hi, nice to meet you,"Joseph Oliver told Albus 's friends."So, you support Puddlemere United, St. John ?"

"Yeah !"lav shouted, his center lit up."I 've been to a few compeer. I saw you in the endure one you played in ! I was 9, but I remember it like it was yesterday. Such outstanding saves."

Oliver laughed,"That was a dear secret plan. I 'm glad you enjoyed it."

"It was awesome !"bathroom said.

A marvelous brunet came walking over to the group, carrying a small boy on her hip. A little young woman was trailing behind her with a plate of Christmas biscuits.

"Hey, Heather,"King Oliver put his arm around the cleaning lady."John, flatness, Amanda, this is my wife, Heather. And this,"Joseph Oliver took the little boy from his wife and put him on his berm,"is my 2 year old son, Alex. And my girl, Holly who is 6."

"Hi,"John and Matt said together.

"I stopped playing steward shortly after Alex was born. Could n't keep up all the traveling with 2 kids."

"I remember that,"John told him,"I was kinda mad, but was just gladiola I got to see your last match."

Oliver laughed,"I understand. I would have been mad if I were you, too. But I 've got high hopes for small Alex here. He can already fly his toy broom expertly. And Buddy Holly 's already flying a real number broom !"King Oliver beamed, he was obviously majestic of his kids.

"That 's pretty neat !"flatness replied,"My mum would n't let me on a Scots heather until I was 9."

"Holly was on one at 5. But just because you start belated does n't signify you 'll be a bad Quidditch instrumentalist,"Joseph Oliver explained,"face at your daddy teacher ! Had n't set one leg over a broom until he was 11."

"Yeah, but I 'm rubbish at Quidditch,"Matt told him.

"Hey, Mr. Wood, could you sign my Quaffle ?"John produced a Quaffle from his bag and held it out to Oliver.

"You brought a Quaffle ? !"rose exclaimed.

"'Course ! After hearing those rumors, how could I not bring one ?"

"Sure, I 'll sign it,"Oliver took the Quaffle and signed it with a quill that he pulled out of his gown. He then handed it back to John.

"Thank you,"John whispered, as he stared in awe at the Quaffle.

"How 'bout you, Matt ?"Oliver asked,"You want an autograph ?"

"Sure ! But I do n't have a Quaffle."

"That 's okay. I 've got some parchment,"Oliver signed some lambskin and gave it to Matt.

"Thanks !"Matt pocketed the parchment.

Alex started whining."Hungy, hungy !"

"Well, boys, I 've got to go get some nutrient for little Alex, here,"King Oliver told them,"Enjoy the political party !"He and heather mixture walked towards the food board with Holly behind them.

"Wow, just wow,"King John told his friends,"That was so cool."

"I 'll say,"Matt replied.

"I ca n't trust you two know him !"John told Albus and Rose.

Rose rolled her eyes,"It 's no big deal."

"You just do n't care Quidditch that much,"Albus told her,"It 's crusade you 're horrible on a broom."

"Shut it, Albus,"Rose glared at him.

"Where 's Helena Yaspies ?"John scanned the crowd,"Any of you lot seen her ?"

"Nope, not yet,"Albus told them.

"No, but look over there near Slughorn 's desk. It 's Willinson,"lustrelessness whispred.

Albus groaned.

"Excellent !"John grinned.

"What ?"Albus looked at him like he was crazy,"Why on earth do you want to see him ?"

"I 've been plotting a little prank,"toilet whispred,"C'mere."He pulled them behind a tabular array and they all crouched down. whoremaster pulled a box out of his bag."This is an Exploding Eclair."

"What ?"Amanda asked.

"Exploding Eclair,"John repeated,"I bought it through owl-order from your uncle 's store, Albus."

"What are you going to do with it ?"Albus eyed him warily, he happened to throw been on the receiving end of an Exploding Eclair at the family dinner before outset of terminal figure. His cousin, Bradley, had done it.

"Plant it on Willinson 's scale,"toilet told them,"But I 'll need your help. When Willinson sets his plate down, take the air by him. Close enough that he can see you, but far enough that he 'll have to forget his plate unattended. Then I 'll put the eclair on it. And when he bites into it, bam ! It 'll explode."

"Brilliant !"lustrelessness shouted.

"I dunno. It 'll make him real mad,"Albus said.

"But he wo n't know it 's us ! That 's the peach of it. There 's so many citizenry here,"trick explained,"But to be on the safe side, we 'll leave right after. We do n't desire to stay if he 's here anyway."

"True,"Albus agreed.

"Everyone in, then ?"John asked, grinning.

"Yep,"they all stated.

"Then let 's go,"John got up from under the table and his friends followed. Willinson was still by the desk, so Albus, mat, Amanda, and rose wine headed over. They walked next to the food table and waited until Willinson noticed them. It did n't take long. He spotted them, smirked, and set down his food for thought. Albus saw John close in on his plate.

"how-do-you-do, chamberpot, Weasel, and ship's company,"Willinson glared,"Enjoying the party ? I 'm just waiting until the moment you explode again, Potty."

"Willinson,"Albus snarled,"I 'm not planning on exploding. Are you ?"

"'Course not. When have I ever exploded ? You on the early paw,"Willinson laughed,"Do n't like the popularity, do you, indulge pot ?"

"Shut it,"flatness stepped towards Willinson.

"What 're you going to do about it, half-pint ?"Willinson towered over Matt by at least a foot.

"You think I 'd severalize you what I 'd do ? Think I 'm stupe ? If I told you, you 'd do it how to block it,"Matt growled.

"I doubt there 's a curse you know that I do n't know how to block."

"Probably, but I know you would n't part anything with prof ceramicist a few foot away,"Matt jerked his headspring in the direction of Harry.

At that mo, Albus looked over and saw whoremonger. John winked at him and walked away from Willinson 's plate.

"well, I think I 've had sufficiency of your company tonight, Willinson,"Albus annonced,"Have a ugly Christmas."Albus started to walk towards John Lackland, and his friends followed.

"Got it planted, then ?"Albus asked when they reached John.

"Yup,"John gave him a thumb up,"We 're on."

They walked over to the threshold of the dungeon so they could escape easily if needed. Willinson picked up his plate and wandered back over to his supporter. As they were talking, he picked up the eclair and bit into it.

The explosion was amazing. As soon as Willinson bit the eclair, cream exploded all over his grimace and in a 2 infantry r around him. A few bystanders were hit as well. It did n't appear possible that that much emollient could fit in one eclair.

"Bloody Hell !"Willinson shouted, and the whole donjon went unsounded. Everyone looked at Willinson and started laughing.

Willinson looked around the way and his gaze fell on Albus."I 'll get you for this, thunder mug,"he seethed as he stormed out of the dungeon.

"That was flaming brilliant,"John said once Willinson had disappeared into the hallway.

"Yeah, it was !"Matt agreed.

The girls and Albus nodded."But he said he 'd get us. We 'd better be on the observation post. He knows it was us,"Albus told them.

"He ca n't acknowledge it was us !"Matt said.

"Yeah, I guess. But he 'd still get us even if he does n't know who did it,"Albus reasoned.

"But it 's Christmas break tomorrow, so it does n't count !"John grinned.

"I suppose you 're right,"Albus smiled,"But let 's get to the common room anyway. His friends agreed, and the five of them made their way to Gryffindor tower.

*******

It was still early on when they made it back to the common room, so it was quite crowded. However, Amanda spotted a few chairman in the back for them to occupy.

"So, who 's excited about Christmas ?"John the Divine asked,"I sure am, I could use a break from studying."

"You 're not going to get a prison-breaking,"Rose told him,"We 've got loads of homework."

"Way to put a muffler on affair, rose wine,"John answered,"But at least there 's no classes !"

"I 'm looking forward to Yule,"Albus said,"I love Christmas."

"What do you usually do for the holidays ?"Amanda asked.

"Oh, it 's great ! We all go to my grandma and gramps 's theater. Everyone. My family, Rose 's kin, all our aunts, uncles, and cousins. Plus Teddy and his granny. It 's pretty crowded, but it 's still fun. I love it. Usually soul winds up having too a good deal to drink and there 's loads of caper played on people,"Albus said excitedly.

"Yeah, it 's pretty neat. We do n't all stay the wholly break, though. Because nigh of us have other household to sojourn. My kinfolk usually stays until a few days after Yuletide and then we spend the rest of the holiday with my mum 's parents,"blush wine explained,"But Albus 's family spends the unit break at the burrow, that 's what we call my grandparents'house."

"Yep. But near of our cousins go straight to the Burrow from Hogwarts. My family always goes family first, to chatter my grandparents'Stephanie Graf. We always do that on Christmas Eve. Dad 's been going ever since he was 17, every year on Yule Eve. Then we get the tunnel late that night."

"What do you do you lot do for Christmastide ?"Rose asked.

"Oh, I love Christmas too,"John smiled,"We stay at my household and my aunts, uncles, full cousin, and grandparents all come over. They never all come at the Lapplander time, though, so it gets pretty crazy. My mum junkie out because she never knows how much to manipulate. And usually someone starts arguing about something, but it 's all right field. My family loves to argue, but we never get material mad at each other."

"Sounds pretty cool. You have a lot of cousin-german, John ?"Amanda asked.

"A middling amount. almost of them are all unseasoned than me, though. 'Course that means they 're great to play tricks on,"John the Evangelist laughed.

"Well, my family celebrates Feast of Dedication,"Amanda told everyone.

"Oh, that 's neat,"Albus told her.

"Yeah, it 's just. I 'm just glad Channukkah is late this year, so I 'll be home plate for it. Sometimes it 's at the end of November. But anyway, I have a pretty lowly home. Just 3 first cousin and my aunt and uncle. And my little pal and quondam sister. My cousin-german usually come over for two Day or so and we all exchange presents. It 's quiet, but fun."

"phone fun,"John the Evangelist agreed,"But I love my huge loud family. What do you do, Matt ? You 've been nasty quiet."

lusterlessness looked up from the table."Christmas Day has never been all that fun for me, I guess. We usually go down to Commonwealth of Australia to visit my grandparents."

"That sounds like fun to me,"John told Matt.

"fountainhead, it 's not. I do n't like Australia. That 's where-"But mat suddenly stopped talking.

"Where what ?"John asked.

"goose egg, nothing. It 's just, that 's where I, er, got sick for the first time. You know, how I get throw up so much."

"Oh."

"Yeah, anyway, well, we visit my grandparents. My parents, me and my baby go. My mum 's a muggle born, and we visit her parents. It 's always very stately when we visit them. They 're rich and stuck up. Never let me do anything there. I have to just sit still and they 're always staring at me. Guess they do n't want me to come apart anything. Luckily we only visit them at Christmas. I do n't have any cousins. My dad 's got a buddy, but he 's keep in the country, so we do n't see him much either. We sometimes visit him over the summer. My dad 's parents died a long meter ago, before I was born. So I do n't have a good deal menage. I just wish we 'd spend Christmas at home."

Albus, Saint John the Apostle, Amanda, and Rose just looked at Matt."I 'm sorry, mat. I wish you had a dear Christmas,"Rose said sympathetically.

"Why do n't you spend Yuletide with us ?"Albus asked,"No one will note another mortal in the Burrow."

"That 's a corking idea !"rose shouted.

"I dunno. I do n't think my parents will let me. Especially this short notice,"lustrelessness looked down glumly."My mum ilk all of us to be together on Yuletide. She seems to think every year it will be dissimilar. That my grandparents will loosen up. But they never do."

"Blimey,"john whispered,"That stinks."

"I know,"flatness agreed.

At that mo, James came bursting in with his booster, Nathan. They both made a beeline for Albus 's table.

"Was it really you ?"James shouted breathlessly,"Did you fall in Willinson the Exploding Eclair ?"

John grinned."It was my idea."

"Brilliant, just brilliant,"Saint James smiled,"The expression on his face ..."

"Yeah, but you lot had better ticker out when you next see him. He seemed to know it was you,"Nathan told them.

"I 'm not worried,"John answered,"He 'll probably forget about it over Christmas."

"I sure hope so,"Albus stated. He looked at his sentry. It was midnight."Well, I 'm off to bed. I 'll see you bozo in the morning.

"We 'd all better go to bed,"Rose stood up,"I think the train is leaving at twelve noon tomorrow."

Albus got up out of his chair and headed to the staircase. He could n't look to go to the Burrow. He missed being surrounded by his mob all the time. He missed his grandmother 's cookery. mentation of the delectable food filed his headway as he drifted off into a pleasant, dreamless sleep.

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A/N : Hope you guys like it ! Please read and review. Thanks as always to Dancer Of Starlight and my former sister and comrade. Also, thanks to queen mole rat and teddysxxgirl for their reviews ! Next chapter is Christmas Day Eve.

know this chapter is curt, but I did n't need to combine it with anything else. It stands on its own.
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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"Lily !"Harry shouted into the animation room,"Are you ready to go ? All packed ?"Harry was standing with Ginny in figurehead of the face door, with a mate trunks and suitcases at his feet. James and Albus were standing nearby, having a sword conflict with a duad cook wands. Albus 's sceptre turned into a pretender parrot and emitted a forte squawking noise.

"Albus ! Saint James the Apostle !"Ginny scolded them,"Behave yourselves."James and Albus quickly stowed the verge and parrot into their trunks.

A small, red-headed girl walked into the elbow room, trailing a pink rolling suitcase."Are we leaving now ?"

"Yes, we are. What were you doing in there, dear ?"Ginny asked.

"I was packing. I could n't find all my Wendy crone dolls and had to see all over the house for them."

James laughed."Do you have to take them everywhere ?"

"Of course I do ! I could n't leave behind any of them home. It would n't be fair,"Lily explained. Albus and James laughed even harder."Mum ! Tell them to exclude up."

"Boys, be nice to your sister. Now, does everyone deliver everything ? I 'm sending the tree trunk to the burrow and we wo n't be coming back after we visit Godric 's hollow,"Ginny informed them.

"Yes, we 've got everything,"Albus told them.

"good,"Ginny waved her sceptre and the shorts and travelling bag disappeared,"Now, then, it 's clock time to go. Lily, drive my arm. boy, take your father's."And with a loud crack, the potter fellowship disappeared from their house.

A few sec later, they reappeared in a theatre a little path away from a diminished Town. The sun was setting and their was impudent snow on the ground. From the field of view, Harry could see bantam multitude walking along the streets.

"Daddy, why do we have to take the air so far ?"Lily whined,"Why ca n't we just Apparate in town ?"

"I 've told you before, Lily, we ca n't let the Muggles see us,"Harry explained.

"But I 'm tired."

"Oh, shut it, Lily,"James snapped at his sister,"It 's not that far."

"Is, too,"Lily stomped away from him.

James I reached down and made a snowball and then threw it at the backbone of his sister 's head.

"Ow ! ! !"Lily screeched and ran to Harry.

Jesse James and Albus started laughing."Good one, James River,"Albus gave his Brother a high five.

"Boys !"Harry shouted,"Enough ! Lily, it 's not that much further. I 'll express you."Harry picked up his girl, who started sobbing into his jacket.

"She 's really tired,"Harry whispered to Ginny.

"I know. She 's been real number excited about you and the boys coming dwelling house for the holiday. She 's been up until midnight every night the past week,"Ginny said.

"She wo n't be getting very much quietus for the next week either, staying at the Burrow,"Harry told Ginny.

"That 's for sure."

As the Potter family moved into the townspeople, some people occasionally stopped to gaze at them. A few stopped to say hello, but hurried off quickly. Others completely ignored them. Many mass were finishing up last minute shopping or hurrying off to church.

The piddling church building was already full of mass singing. The ceramicist could hear the carol as they walked by. They crunched through the snow in silence. Even King James I and Albus were quiet. Lily had fallen asleep on Harry 's shoulder shortly after he picked her up. Harry appreciated how his kids were always behaved when he visited his parents graves. It was sort of an unspoken matter. He had never once had to tell them to behave themselves in the cemetery. The Thomas Kyd would fight back and bicker along the streets in the village, but would always get along once they entered the cemetery.

Harry walked into the cemetery, with Ginny, James, and Albus following him. As he walked the familiar way to his parents graves, he thought about his previous sojourn. There was the first visit, of course. He could n't blank out that. Voldemort had showed up and tried to kill him. Ever since then, he had been visiting every Hallowe'en and every Christmas Eve. He had taken Ginny once they were married, and the kids once they were born. Harry always felt sad when he visited, but this yr he felt worried as well. Who was attempting to read his and his kids'psyche ? What about the mysterious demise of prof Torro ?

Harry made his way towards his parents'grave and stopped in straw man of it. He bent down and put his hand over the figure. Jesse James and Lily Potter.

Before the downfall of Voldemort, orphic end were expected. Of course of action, nowadays, there were execution every once and a while. These were usually attributed to expiry Eaters still at large or witches or wizards who believed in Voldemort 's ideals. Harry or one of the former Aurors usually caught them quickly and they were in Azakaban at the bit. Harry had had Aurors on the typesetter's case of Torro ever since September, but there were still no pencil lead. This reminded him of very much of the solar day when Voldemort was at large.

What was he supposed to do ? He was doing all he could to captivate Torro 's killer. He could n't help but think the end was somehow related to the legilimency that was being performed on him, James, and Albus. And what could he do to help reassure his sons ? The former teachers had told Harry that James was more subdued in class ever since the sequence during his detainment with Washburn. James was obviously quite worried about it. Albus was, too. Harry had met with Ron shortly afterward and neither of them could come up with any new musical theme of who did it. It must hold either been a student or a instructor. As much as Harry hated to do it, he realized he was going to sustain to investigate his colleagues. Ginny was worried, too. However, she believed that the male child were safe with Harry at the castle. Harry knew she took consolation in knowing he was near them at all sentence. Harry only wished he felt as confident in his ability as Ginny did.

Ginny knelt down succeeding to Harry and wordlessly took the sleeping Lily from his arms. Harry reached into his cloak and pulled out a bouquet of lilies. He bent down again and placed them in front of the grave stone. Harry stood up and looked at the grave accent, his eyes glistening with tears.

"Happy Christmas, Mum and Dad,"Harry whispered. Ginny put her arm around Harry, and the two of them turned around and headed out of the burying ground, with James and Albus in their wake.
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Longer chapter is coming up next ! It 'll be Christmas Day at the Burrow. Thanks as always to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my other baby, and my Brother. Thanks as well to siriusgirl1 for reviewing. Please read and review !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower ! Although I do own the OCs, the plot of land, and most of the Weasley first cousin !

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A little while later, the ceramicist family line appeared in the yard behind the Burrow. They walked up to the back door and Harry opened it. He walked inside, followed by his family, and saw the usual chaos. The entire Weasley crime syndicate was standing inside. It was a sea of flaming red hair's-breadth. nearly of the fry had inherited the Weasley red hair's-breadth. The few elision were Albus, who looked just like Harry, and Victoire and Gabrielle, who had their mother 's silvery blond whisker.

"Mum, make him give it back !"six-year-old Lindy shouted as her brother held her bird in the air.

"Cedric ! ease up her back her doll !"Corrine Weasley yelled at her son. He reluctantly handed Lindy her chick and ran from the room.

The tunnel was crammed with people. There did n't appear to be room for anyone else. teddy lupine was currently entertaining the younger Weasley youngster by changing his ears and hair color. The older kids were eating various sweets and talking about all variety of matter. Many of the adults were drinking eggnog and getting louder and louder by the minute.

Ron was the first to notice the thrower."Oi ! Harry 's here !"he shouted and ran towards the door,"Hi Harry ! Great to see you, checkmate !"

"Hey, Ron !"

"Harry, Ginny !"Molly Weasley came bustling into the kitchen,"Come in, come in ! Are you hungry ? Want any stew ?"

"Sure,"Harry told her and he sat down at the table succeeding to Ginny. molly went over to the kitchen range and got five bowls of stew.

"This is great, Mum, thanks,"Ginny told Molly.

Albus and James were already digging into their stew. Lily ate a few collation and then ran off to detect her cousins, apparently not tired at all anymore.

"fountainhead, everyone 's here,"molly told them,"They 're all in the bread and butter room. I do n't know if we 'll ever get the small fry to bed."

"It 's Christmas Eve, do n't even get to,"Harry laughed.

Albus finished his stew and got up from the table. He went into the living elbow room with St. James the Apostle and found rosiness, along with his cousins Tom Bradley, Cedric, Ben, and Mark sitting together on the floor. Cedric and Ben were second years, and Thomas Bradley and Mark were third years.

"What 's new ?"Albus asked.

"Oh, not practically,"Ben told him,"Uncle George and Uncle Charlie are middling inebriate. Grammy is trying to get the younger tyke in bed. All the aunts are talking about all kinds of material. My dad, Uncle Walker Percy, Uncle Ron, and Grandpa are all drinking eggnog and eating cooky over there,"he pointed to a few chairs grouped together around a little board."And let 's see, Teddy and Victoire were snogging earlier. It was pretty gross. Who wants to see their sister snogging someone ? Grammy made them quit. Now Teddy 's changing his hair colouring all the time for the entertainment of the footling kids, which is making it toilsome for Grammy to get them to go to bed."

James and Albus laughed."Should be an interest holiday,"James said,"What have you lot been up to ?"

"Oh, not much, just talking about Quidditch,"Cedric said,"Oh, and Rose is trying to get some studying done."

"Rose ! We 're on holiday !"James looked shocked,"Now 's not the time to study !"

"Well, you 'll be scrambling to get your oeuvre done on the concluding day, like always. Maybe you should study tonight, too."

"You 'll never get anything done with all this dissonance,"Cedric told her."What 's up with you, James and Albus ?"

"Oh, not very much. Lily 's been complaining a lot. She got really mad when I threw a snow formal at her while we were walking into Godric 's Hollow,"James II told them.

"Yeah, she 's been form of a botheration, and we 've only been on holiday for a day !"Albus said as he snatched a cookie from a nearby platter."I 'm sure going to savor this clock time off, though. I have n't gone a week without hold in ages."

"Me too !"James agreed,"I need a break from Washburn, he 's crazy."

"Definitely,"Bradley agreed,"You 've missed so much Quidditch drill because of him."

"He hates me, I tell you. Hates Albus, too."

"Remember that muck bomb in outset class, James ?"Cedric asked.

"Yeah, how could I bury that ? That 's when he started hating me,"James River reminisced."Did n't watch many spell that year due to the amount of times I used nosebleed nougats."

"I 'm hoping I get new Snackboxes for Xmas this yr,"Cedric told them,"I 'm running out. Ca n't hold back till next year and I can go buy them at Hogsmeade."

"Definitely. Hogwarts wo n't know what hit it when we 're capable to buy prank hooey all the time,"Epistle of James laughed.

"Going to Hogsmeade 's great,"sucker chimed in,"I 've bought so many sweets at Honeydukes this year."

"Not to mention everything else there. Like the trine Broomsticks. What a great place. And the shriek hut. You know it 's shrieking again this year,"Bradley added.

Albus and blush wine glanced at each other nervously.

"Yeah, I 've heard it. But I wonder why ? It has n't shrieked since Teddy 's dad was at Hogwarts,"Jesse James wondered aloud.

"You do n't think-"Cedric started to say, but was cut off by Molly.

"If you 're not in Hogwarts yet, it 's time for bed !"she shouted,"It 's nearly midnight, way past your bedtimes. Go on ! Lily, Hugo, Angie, Samantha, Lindy, and Eddie ! Bed !"

"But Grammy !"Lily whined,"I do n't wan na ! I 'm not a little kid !"

"No buts, Lily, bed, now !"

Lily pouted and then stomped up the steps to the room she shared with Angie, Samantha, and Lindy.

"I see what you mean about Lily,"Cedric told James and Albus.

"Yup, she 's been doing it all evening. Dad actually carried her at Godric 's hole. And she fell asleep on his shoulder. 'Course now she does n't require to go to bed, physical body,"Saint James the Apostle said.

"So, what does everyone think the prospect of England making it to the humanity Cup adjacent class ?"Albus asked quickly, before everyone could return to the theme of the screech Shack.

"Ugh !"Rose sighed,"Back to Quidditch again."She pulled out her copy of The touchstone book of piece, form One and continued reading.

The subject area of Quidditch carried the son the quietus of the nighttime and Albus was very projecting that no one mentioned the Shrieking hovel again. After a patch, Molly decided it was time for everyone else to go to bed, too. Saint James the Apostle, Bradley, Cedric, German mark, Ben, and Albus were all sharing Ron 's old bedchamber on the top floor. They trudged up the stairs while continuing their Quidditch conversation. When they reached the room, they found three lot of bunk seam crammed into the room, just as they were every other Christmas. It was a bit cramped, but they all had enough room. Albus climbed into the bum of the bunk he shared with James and fell into a restful sleep.

******

"Albus ! Wake up ! It 's Noel !"a shrill voice screamed as Albus opened his eyes. He sat up and bumped his head on the bed above him.

"Ouch !"Albus rubbed his aching headway. He had forgotten he was at the Burrow."What is it ?"

"It 's Noel, Albus !"Lily screeched.

"What time is it ? Is anyone else up ?"

"It 's six in the morning !"Lily said excitedly."I 'm the get-go one up. Look, you 've got present tense !"Lily pointed at the galvanic pile near the metrical unit of Albus 's bed.

"Excellent ! Looks like a dependable load this year,"Albus smiled."Have you opened yours ?"

"Not yet. I think I will now, though !"Lily grinned and ran from the room.

Albus heard stirring from the bed above him."You up, Saint James the Apostle ?"

"Yeah, I am now. She 's always the first one up on Christmas,"James yawned.

"I know, she 's even up before the twins, Angie, and Eddie,"Albus laughed."Well, mine as well get started on the presents !"

Albus crawled to the end of his bed and examined his present tense. He picked up a boastfully, soft software program and knew what it was before even opening it. He tore off the wrapping and unfolded a scarlet jumper with a Gryffindor lion on it. Albus knew he 'd be getting one of these this class. His grandmother always knitted everyone a sweater every class, but for each kid 's first yr at Hogwarts, they got a Gryffindor jumper. Albus pulled his over his pass and smiled."What jumper did you get this twelvemonth, Henry James ?"

"vermilion with a gold Snitch,"James told Albus,"You get the Gryffindor one ?"

"Yup."Albus reached for his next present. It was from his Uncle George and Aunt Alicia. He opened it up and found a Skiving Snackbox. He grinned. He never had much use for these sweets before, but now that he was at Hogwarts, they would definitely descend in ready to hand."What 'd you get from Uncle George ?"

"Extendable capitulum,"James responded.

The next nowadays was in the anatomy of a Quran. Albus knew it was from his aunt Hermione before he even looked at the tag. When he unwrapped it, he found it was Hogwarts, A History. Albus laughed. James had gotten the same book go year.

"Did you get Hogwarts, A story ?"Saint James asked.

"Yeah, how 'd you know ?"Albus sniggered. The next software was from his Uncle Ron, a box of Honeydukes sweets.

Albus reached into his pile of present and found the one from his parents. It was a yearn rectangular box. Albus opened it and found a flying lizard skin wand cover. It was vermilion and embossed with Au lions. Albus stared at it in awe. He had seen one of these in Diagon alleyway when he was there buying his school supplies. He had wanted it, but his dad had said no. It came with a small bottle of wand polish."What 'd you get from Mum and Dad ?"

"Have n't opened theirs yet,"James said,"Lem me find it."Albus heard rustling from the bed above and ripping paper. Then silence."Wow ! This is awesome ! They got me a scepter cover !"

"Me too !"Albus exclaimed,"What 's yours have on it ?"

"Snitches ! It 's like my sweater, scarlet with aureate Snitches."

"Mine 's vermilion with aureate lions."

"Pretty impressive,"James said.

"Yeah,"Albus agreed.

Albus continued opening his nowadays until there were none left wing. He got a lot of Sweet and Weasley 's adept Wheezes Cartesian product. He also got a few books, including Quidditch in the Twentieth Century. But his favorite nowadays was his verge covert, he kept staring at it. When Omar Bradley, Cedric, Mark, and Ben woke up, they opened their own nowadays.

By the time the son had all finished opening their nowadays, everyone else in the theater was up. When they went downstairs they found Molly cooking breakfast. All the other grownup were sitting around the mesa talking and having deep brown and tea. The younger Kid were running around playing with their presents. The older kids were all clustered around one of the armchairs in the livelihood elbow room. The male child went over to investigate.

"What 's going on over here ?"James II asked, while squeezing in between Francis Edgar Stanley and Fred.

"GA 's gotten a new broom !"Fred exclaimed."Newest fashion model, a Firebolt 3000."

"Oh, wow !"James River exclaimed,"Can I touch it ?"

"Sure,"GA was sitting in the armchiar, with her new ling resting on her lap. Everyone was admiring it.

"This is so cool,"Heather gazed at the Calluna vulgaris,"Wait 'till the Slytherins see we have one of these on our team."

"Yeah !"Fred agreed,"Supposed to be the fastest broom yet. Just came out last week."

"Can I fly it later ?"James asked.

"Yeah, sure, but I want to try it out first,"Georgia laughed,"We 'll go out after breakfast."

"Do you know if anyone else has one at Hogwarts yet ?"Thomas Bradley asked.

"No, I do n't think anyone else has one !"Georgia said.

"Wow, wait 'till everyone finds out it 's my sister who got the first Firebolt 3000,"Thomas Bradley sighed,"But I do wish I got one."

"well, I was riding a Nimbus 2000. You 've got a veritable Firebolt."

"I know, but I hope I get one for my birthday."

"Breakfast is set up !"Molly called into the room.

Everyone scrambled into the kitchen and got plates of food. There was n't decent room at the mesa for everyone to eat at. The kids all went back into the keep way to eat. Albus sat down next to Lily, who was playing with her new toy dog and eating at the same time.

"What 'd you get, Lily ?"Albus asked his sister.

"New My Little Hippogriffs,"she told him, gesturing to her plaything."And a stuffed owl, which I named Hedwig. Some candy, a few phoney verge, a sweater, some socks, a couple Bible, and a Gryffindor hat and scarf."

"That 's good,"Albus responded, as he started eating his eggs. rosebush came and sat down next to Albus.

"Hi, pink wine. You get honest presents ?"

"Yeah, I got a lot of books !"she told him.

"I got a few volume. But the best affair is my new wand covering fire,"Albus grinned,"It 's upstairs, I 'll point it to you later."

"Wow, that 's neat."

"Did you see Georgia 's new broom ?"Albus asked,"Its only been out a week. She 's probably one of the first to get one."

"Yeah, I saw it. It 's pretty impressive. You going to try it out ? ``

"Definitely. It 's got to be expectant to fly. Maybe I 'll be able to get a heather next summer. I 'm trying out for Chaser side by side year,"Albus told her.

"I 'm trusted you 'll get it,"Rose told him as she ate her toast.

"I dunno. I mean, there 's only one chaser position opening up following twelvemonth. Samantha 'll be leaving. I bet Georgia 'll be made Captain."

"Probably. She 's the side by side oldest. And she 's a good drawing card,"rosebush agreed.

"addition she 's got the best broom handle ever !"Albus said.

"True,"Rose said,"But just because you 've got a good ling, does n't mean you 're a dependable captain."

"Yeah, but GA 's a great histrion. Her new broom will only defecate her wagerer. Slytherin wo n't fend a probability. I think we 're playing them shortly after we go back in Jan,"Albus told Rose."You gon na try out the ling ?"

"Probably not. I 'm not very good and I would n't want to break it."

"I doubt you 'd dash it. You 're an ok circular,"Albus told her."But I 'm definitely trying it."

"Let 's go play Quidditch !"GA stood up and held her broom over her straits. Everyone who had been eating breakfast dropped their plates and either stormed up to the sleeping accommodation to get their own brooms or ran out into the field that was used for Quidditch practice. Albus, since he did not own his own broomstick, went directly outside. Georgia had already ran out the door and was standing in the middle of the field, with a Brobdingnagian smiling on her face.

"Ready, Albus ?"she asked.

"Definitely ! I ca n't wait !"he told her, and he looked over to the backbone door of the star sign. James, and everyone else who had their own broom had come out and were running over to the field.

"Can I try it after you ?"teddy shouted from behind everyone else.

"Sure !"Georgia shouted back.

"Then me !"James waved his blazon around.

"And me !"Fred screamed.

"Me !"Calluna vulgaris pushed her way in front of Fred, trying to close up him.

"Shut it !"Empire State of the South shouted over the noise,"Everyone will get a spell ! But right now, I 'm flying it !"Georgia mounted her broom and kicked off from the solid ground. The velocity was amazing. She could nominate tour at top speed and brake seconds before she would consume crashed into the ground.

"Wow !"James screamed excitedly."That 's glorious !"Everyone started talking at once and Albus was not capable to make out anything. Georgia flew around the sphere for fifteen bit before landing beside her sibling and cousins. She dismounted and handed the broom to teddy bear.

"Thanks !"slip grinned and changed his haircloth to red. He flew into the air did a series of spins and spell. He flew for about ten bit and landed next to Georgia."Wow, I wish I 'd had that when I was Seeker, we never would have lost a catch !"

"We barely lost a match anyway,"Georgia laughed. She took the broom and handed it to Epistle of James. For the next two minute, everyone took a turn on the ling. Even Rose got into the spirit of thing and flew around for a few minutes. After everyone had had a turn, Empire State of the South decided to organize a Quidditch match.

"Ok, I 'll be captain of my team and Teddy can captain the other team,"Georgia decided. The two senior pilot took turns picking their team and eventually their were two squad of six players each. As there were n't enough players for full team, six players for each had to run. Georgia 's team consisted of William James, Tom Bradley, Cedric, Francis Edgar Stanley, and Gabriella. Teddy 's team consisted of Heather, Fred, Victoire, Ben, and print. Since Albus did not have a Calluna vulgaris, he could n't play. He and originate watched from the sidelines, while the untested kids played in the snow nearby.

"That was close death night, about the Shrieking Shack, I mean,"Albus whispered to Rose.

"I know,"she whispered back,"Everyone 's suspect about it. I hear mass whispering about it sometimes in the Great Hall."

"That means matt 's listening it, too,"Albus groaned,"It 's got to be horrifying for him."

"DOE this mean you definitely believe he 's a werewolf, then ?"rosiness asked.

"I 'm not totally confident, but it does seem that way. I do n't think I 'll be fully convinced until I hear him say so himself."

"I suppose you 're right, but I 'm somewhat sure of it,"Rose told him.

"How 'd you observe out, anyway ? How do you fuck so a lot about wolfman ?"Albus asked.

"I 've read about them, of row. Once I found out that chemise 's dad was a lycanthrope, I read all about them in Mum and Dad 's old schooling books,"rosebush said.

"Oh, yeah, that makes sense. You indisputable do show a lot."

"I know,"Rose agreed, as she pulled her transcript of Hogwarts, A History, out of her jacket.

"You got that for Christmas, too ?"Albus questioned.

"Yup, it 's quite concern. I 'm already on chapter three."

"I have n't even started reading it yet."

Rose laughed and opened up her Christian Bible. Albus looked out towards the flying field and watched the quietus of the Quidditch catch. It was a pretty good catch. Quite dissimilar than Hogwarts catch, though. There was no reviewer, so a few arguments erupted. After an hour or so, chemise caught the Snitch and his team won. Albus and his first cousin trooped back into the house, snowy, wet, and coldness. It was almost meter for Dec 25 supper, and Molly was cooking in the kitchen, with help from Ginny and Fleur. Albus ran up to the top bedroom and got out his new Quidditch Good Book and translate it until supper was ready.

Christmas supper was always an matter to event at the tunnel. The kitchen tabular array was not big enough to seat everyone, so usually the younger children sat there, while the erstwhile kid and the grownup found seats in the sustenance room. There was always a lot of food, too. The food was kept in the kitchen and citizenry got up to get some when they wanted it. As Albus was walking into the kitchen, he distinctly saw James sneaking around the living room doing something with one of the arm chairs.

Sure enough, after Albus sat down at the board and started eating his food, he heard a wow from the animation room. He jumped up from his chair and followed his cousin-german into the room.

"What was that ? !"Harry shouted, looking down at the chairwoman he had been sitting in.

molly came into the way and pushed past Albus."James Sirius thrower ! What did you do ?"

James looked sheepishly at her,"How did you know it was me ? You did n't see it happen."

"I raised your Uncle George ! I know a hangdog look when I see one,"Molly screamed at him,"What did you do ?"

"Shocking Seat,"James explained,"It 's a little matter you hide on a chair and gives a meek electric shock to the individual who sits in it."

Harry started laughing,"And I suppose it 's from your shop, George ?"

"Yup, young product. Just came out a few weeks ago. I got James IV a few for Christmas. intellection he 'd like them,"George V told him.

"I 'd say he does like them,"Harry grinned,"Just do n't use them on any teachers."

"Too late. I just did,"Jesse James express joy. Everyone else started laughing as well, except molly, who went back into the kitchen.

The rest period of supper went by with only a few minor antic. Someone snuck a Ton Tongue Toffee into Albus 's pudding and his tongue grew two feet before Harry found out and fixed it for him. A few glasses exploded and a few bowls of soup crashed to the footing, mostly because Sir Henry Morton Stanley had just turned 17 and wanted to use conjuration to bring matter to the table for people. Eventually, everyone had enough to eat and they migrated into the animation elbow room. The adults had all had quite a bit of eggnog and firing whiskey and were not paying a unanimous lot of care to the tiddler. This enabled Teddy and Victoire to mouse off into the kitchen, to be alone.

Albus and rosebush decided to wreak Wizard 's Chess. Lily and Hugo sat down to watch. It did n't take rise up too long to perplex Albus. rosiness was very right at chess and she was much adept than Albus. After that, the four of them played a few rung of Exploding Snap, virtually of which Albus won.

Eventually, mollie decided it was meter for everyone to go to bed. Albus climbed slowly up the stairs and got into his bunk. He was very stock. It had been a neat Christmas. With his stomach full and his nitty-gritty happy, Albus fell into a deep sleep.

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A/N : Hope you liked it ! I wrote this before Jo posted the Weasley/Potter class tree, so that 's why I made up my own Weasley full cousin. Although I did opine correctly that James 's heart gens is Sirius ! I know it 's a bit confusing with the large amount of cousins I made up, so I 'll try and carry a family Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree with one of the upcoming chapters.

As always, thanks to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my former Sister, and my bro. Thanks also to inkheart for their reviews. Please read and review !

Disclaimer- As usual, I do not own Harry Potter.

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Boxing Day was usually a lazy day at the Burrow. Everyone slept late and ate whatever whenever they wanted. Albus awoke around noon, and found that a few of his aunts, uncles, and cousins were getting gear up to leave. His Uncle George IV and auntie Alicia and their tiddler were getting ready to leave to call in Alicia 's parents. His Uncle Charlie and Aunt Katherine and their nestling were also leaving to claver other family.

"Bye, guys,"Albus waved as his Uncle Charlie stepped into the hearth with Eddie.

"Bye, Albus,"Charlie waved back,"Have a good meter at school."

Albus walked into the kitchen and found Rose sitting at the tabular array reading Hogwarts, A History. Hugo was also there.

"morn, rosebush,"he said as he sat down next to her.

"Hi,"she said, not looking up from her book.

Albus went to the counter and made some toast. Hugo got up from the tabular array and ran into the living room. When Albus brought his breakfast back to the mesa, rose had set her al-Qur'an down.

"Good, he left,"rosiness whispered,"I want to talk to you about Matt."

"What about him ?"

"His little 'problem',"pink wine said,"Listen, I went snooping around Grandpa 's study this morning while everyone was at rest. I want to do some more inquiry about lycanthropy."

"Well, did you bump anything ?"Albus asked eagerly.

"Yeah, I did. I found a few Quran that have information in them. I took them and hid them in my trunk upstairs. Now that Heather 's left to see her former grandparents, I 've got my room to myself. We can go learn them after we 're done eating."

"phone beneficial,"Albus whispered back,"And we 've got to ask Uncle Bill about it too."

"I know, I 've thought of that too. We 'll ask tomorrow. There 'll be LE people. Uncle note, Aunt Fleur, Victoire, Gabriella, and Ben are n't leaving until day after tomorrow. Uncle Sir Henry Percy, Aunt Corrine, Georgia, Bradley, Cedric, and the similitude are leaving tomorrow. I do n't want to be overheard."

"trade good mentation,"Albus said as he took a bite out of his toast. At that import, King James, Cedric, Bradley, and Ben came in.

"What were you two talking about ?"James asked, as he stole a small-arm of Albus 's toast.

"zip,"Albus said abruptly.

James looked at him warily,"Hmm, well, we 're going to go run Quidditch. You want to watch ?"

pink wine looked at Albus."Um, no, me and rose have, er, homework to do."

James laughed."There 's batch of metre left to do prep. Oh, well, courtship yourself."Jame shoved the final stage bit of his pledge into his mouthpiece and he, Cedric, and Ben went outside.

"That was fold,"Rose whispered,"We ca n't let anyone find out. Are you ready ?"

"Yeah,"Albus said as he got up from the mesa. pink wine got up, too, and Albus followed her to the sleeping room she stayed in. They went inside and rosiness closed the door quietly. She went over to her tree trunk, pulled out a few heavy books, and dumped them on her bed.

"If anyone bursts in and asks us what we 're doing, we say it 's homework,"Rose told Albus. She picked up a rule book and handed it to him."Here you go. Just look through it and read anything you find about werewolves."

Albus took the Scripture and looked at it. It was entitled Modern Magical Remedies. He opened it to the index number and looked for 'werewolf', but it was n't there. However, 'wolfsbane'was. There was a whole chapter on it. Albus turned to the chapter and briefly leafed through it. It was long and the print was very small. It was not the kind of version Albus would normally do, but his wonder about Matt 's condition triumphed over his dislike of tedious reading. Albus and rose read for close to two hours. In the sentence it took Albus to read about the Aconitum lycoctonum potion, rose had gone through two of the other books.

"Well, what did you find ?"Rose asked once Albus had finished his chapter. She looked a bit pallid and sort of scared.

"Loads, how about you ?"Albus told her,"Are you okay ?"

"Yeah, I guess,"rosiness whispered,"It 's just, the other playscript I 've read did n't really go over what it 's like to transform. These did. Oh, Albus, it sounds ugly ! Really dreadful ! And painful. I just feel so bad for Matt, if that is what 's going on. Apparently, when a werewolf is in wolf form, they must bite early animals or people. They 're not in their human being mind, they do n't know what they 're doing ! And if there 's no former animals or people to bite, they bite themselves. That must be where mat got all those cuts and bruises from. He 's doing it to himself."

Albus stared at her with his mouthpiece open air,"That 's ugly ! There 's got to be something someone could do ! therapist or someone must jazz a cure or something."

"There 's not. There 's no curative for lycanthropy. Just the Wolfsbane potion,"Rose told him.

"Oh, yeah,"Albus had momentarily forgotten what he had been reading about,"The Wolfsbane potion does work. If a werewolf takes it every nighttime a few nights prior to transformation, they will transform, but will be harmless to themselves and former the great unwashed. It 's really complicated to seduce, but apparently it makes the transformations loads better."

"But why does n't Matt take it then ?"Rose wondered.

"I dunno. I guess the alone way we 'd ascertain out is to ask him,"Albus told her.

"So you believe me, then ? You 're convinced he 's a werewolf ?"Rose asked.

"You know, I think so. I guess I 'm still not positive, but I 'm as positive as I could be without him actually telling me."

pink wine got up from the bed."I guess we 've learned everything we can from these Good Book. I 'll swipe them back early tomorrow morning."She picked up all the books and put them back into her trunk.

"I think I 'll go see what everyone else is up to,"Albus got up from the floor and opened the room access,"You coming ?"

"Yeah, for sure,"rosebush followed Albus out the door.

The full cousin walked down the steps from Rose 's elbow room. The family was very tranquillity. Most of their cousins were outside playing Quidditch or in their rooms enjoying their presents. Since two of the families had already left, it was quite a bit calmer. As Albus and rosiness strode past the kitchen, Albus stopped brusk. Rose bumped into him.

"Ouch !"she screeched as she bumped her fountainhead on his back.

"Shush !"Albus whispered as he pressed his read/write head to the door of the kitchen,"I heard someone say my name."

Rose leaned her fountainhead against the threshold as well and the two of them tried to listen for a min or so."It 's no use ! They 're whispering. I ca n't listen anything."

"Me neither, but I swear one of them mentioned me !"Albus listened again,"I 'm pretty sure it 's my mum and dad, and your dad as well."

The presence doorway banged overt and James, Cedric, Ben, and Bradley stormed in, dropping their broom on the floor."It 's all-fired freezing out there !"James shouted as he tore off his glove and scarf joint.

"And someone 's locked the kitchen doorway !"Cedric added, as he pulled off his frozen hat.

"Shush !"Albus shouted back.

"What ?"James asked as he came rushing over, followed by Cedric, Ben, and Bradley.

"The kitchen 's locked because some of the adult are in there talking about me !"Albus whispered back.

"Really ?"Henry James looked at him curiously,"What about ?"

"I dunno !"Albus whispered back,"I ca n't hear them, they 're being really quiet."

Saint James the Apostle thought for a second, and then a grin appeared on his brass."Time to conk out out one of my Christmas presents."

"That 's right !"Albus said excitedly,"You got Extendable Ears for Christmas !"

"Yep, sure did I 'll go get them !"Saint James announced, and then he ran upstairs. He appeared a minute later holding a wild blue yonder box with a with child ear pictured on it."Here they are."James tore open the publicity and pulled out seven fleshy thermionic valve. He handed one to everybody and stowed the surplus in his pocket.

Albus hastily pushed one end of the Extendable Ear into his own ear and sent the former end to the fanny of the door. Albus had used Extendables once before, when his cousin Gabriella had bought some at Hogsmeade and let Albus try them out. That was two class ago, and he had n't heard anything interesting. Gabriella had bought them in order to listen in on Victoire 's conversations with her friend who had stayed for Christmas fault. Victoire only talked about how a good deal she liked Teddy, and Albus found that rather boring. This time, however, Albus was for certain he 'd take heed more worry conversations.

"I 'm really not sure I should severalize them,"Albus heard his dad say.

"I know,"his mother responded back,"If someone invading thieir minds, it 's best they did not have a go at it right now."

"I mean, I had n't really thought about when I was going to tell them,"Harry responded,"I guess I was planning on doing it when they were much old. I worry about what they would do with the information. James especially."

James turned away from the door and looked at Albus."They 're talking about me, too !"

"I know, shush !"Albus said as he turned his attention back to the conversation in the kitchen.

"I honestly would only trust rosebush with the info, Harry,"Ginny told her husband.

This time it was pink wine 's turn to look at Albus."Me, too ! But whatever it is, they trust me."rosebush could n't facilitate but grin as she turned back to the door.

"I do n't want her to make out, given the flow circumstances,"Ron said.

"Me neither,"Hermione agreed.

"I know, but it seems as if whoever 's doing it is focusing on James and Albus,"Harry informed them."I was always suspicious about telling them, but especially now ..."

"Harry, we did n't even say my pal,"Ron said,"Why are you worrying about telling the nipper ?"

"contribution of me wants them to understand what we think is going on,"Harry went on,"But the other part of me does n't want them to know."

"I 'm siding with that parting of you,"Ginny said,"We should n't tell them."

"Ever ?"Hermione asked tentatively,"I do call back they should be trusted with that information at some point."

"I agree, Hermione,"Harry told her,"But not now. I guess I 'd just been waiting for the opportunity to present itself, have n't really thought about when I 'd tell them. I suppose the well thing to do would be to hold back until they 're out of school, they 'll be more than mature and there 'll be to a lesser extent of a chance of it leaking out."

"That sounds reasonable, Harry,"Ginny agreed,"Someday, we 'll secernate them about the Hallows. But right now I think we need to talk about what 's been going on with-"

"Epistle of James, Bradley, Cedric, St. Benedict, rose wine, and Albus, what on earth are you doing ? !"a blanched voice caused Albus to drop his extendable Ear and he was not able to get word what his mum had been about to say.

molly Weasley ran over to the five cousins, a look of rage on her face."Have you been listening in on that conversation ? Obviously you have ! You have no right ! Your parents wanted to be alone ! And generate me those !"

Albus, James, and their first cousin did not even think about not listening to their grandmother and handed over their auricle at once."And the early one ?"She eyed James 's pocket. Albus glanced at it and noticed the little bit of form sticking out of it. James River sulkily pulled it out and handed it to her.

"I 'll be having a word with your Uncle George ! He 's lucky he 's not here right now. He should n't be giving you those for Dec 25, honestly, the nerve of him ..."Molly stormed over to her desk and grabbed a piece of parchment and a quill and started writing while she mumbled to herself. Albus knew she was going to post a sidesplitter to her son.

The to-do outside the kitchen caused Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione to stop their conversation and fall out to see what the commotion was about. Once Albus heard the door start to open, he made a mad bolt for the stairs, and the thundering behind him told him his brother and first cousin did the same.

Albus did n't stop running until he made it to pink wine 's room, and once King James I and their full cousin were inside, he slammed the doorway shut.

"What was that all about ?"Albus asked as he sat down on one of the beds.

"I dunno,"James I responded,"They obviously know something we do n't and they do n't want to tell us about it. But what did they think by they did n't want me to make out about it especially ?"Henry James stomped back and Forth across the floor, obviously mad that his parents would n't trust him with something.

"Well, that 's not the just ground they 're keeping it from us !"blush wine argued,"They said they trust me, but still wo n't evidence me."

"Must be something really tightlipped because only your parents know about it,"Ben reasoned."I suppose Thomas Bradley, Cedric, and I wo n't ever chance out."

"Yeah, you will !"James insisted as he threw himself onto a bed,"Once I find out, I 'll narrate you !"

"James !"Rose shouted,"That must be why they wo n't tell you right now ! They do n't want anybody to know. If it 's something so secretive that they wo n't even evidence any of our uncles, then they must not need a whole lot of people to know."

"But what would my parents, aunt Hermione, and Uncle Ron know that none of the other aunts and uncles know about ?"Albus asked Rose.

"I dunno,"Rose answered. The five of them sat in silence for a few minutes, trying to call up of what this could be.

"You do n't think ..."James started,"... that maybe it has something to do with the war ?"

Albus looked at him,"But Dad said he told us all about the war."

"It makes signified, Albus,"Rose told him,"What else besides the war do my parents and your parents have, but none of our aunts and uncles do ?"

"But my parents were involved in the war !"Cedric insisted.

"I know they were,"William James said as he got up from the bed again and started pacing,"But my dad and blush wine 's parents were a lot More involved. They destroyed most of the horcruxes and they were off by themselves for almost a year doing it."

"True,"Cedric agreed.

"Whatever it is, they 're keeping something from us,"James told everyone as he pounded his fist on the nighttime stand,"And I do n't like it. Especially since Dad said he told us everything."

"Anyone catch what they were talking about ?"Omar Nelson Bradley asked.

"Yeah,"Albus responded,"Hallows. Whatever they are."

"Never heard of them,"James River said.

"Me neither,"Cedric said. Omar Nelson Bradley and Ben shook their heads. Albus looked expectantly at rosebush. Whenever somebody else did n't know about something, Rose always knew.

"I 've never heard anything about them either, Albus, I 'm bad,"rose wine sighed,"But once we 're back in school, we can reckon in the library."

"I guess,"Albus said, looking down at his foundation. He did not like the idea of his parents keeping something from him. It made him feel betrayed. Harry had always told Albus that he told him everything about the war. But if these Hallows had anything to do with the war, like James suspected they did, then Harry and Ginny were keeping something from them. What were the Hallows ? And why were his parents so captive about not letting him know about them ? Why did they call up he was n't trustworthy enough to know about them ?

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A/N : Sorry for the wait ! I have been on vacation, so have n't been able to update. Hopefully, I 'll get my Weasley family tree up with the next chapter.
Thanks as usual to Rain is LIquid Moonlight, my other sister, and my comrade. Also thanks to inkheart, Ashley, Black fire, and e.jones for their recap !

Disclaimer- I do not own Harry Potter.

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Chapter 15 : Occlumency and Potions

By the time Albus woke up the future morning, his Uncle Percy, Aunt Corrine, and their kids had already left. Albus had not slept very well. Although he had n't had any nightmare, Albus could n't discontinue thinking about what his parents were keeping from him, and the intellection had kept him tossing and turning almost the whole nighttime. Once he fell asleep, he slept until it was nearly one o'clock in the afternoon. He never even had the luck to say goodbye to his aunty, uncle and cousin. However, he did n't have long to live on it because shortly after he had gotten dressed, James burst into the room.

"commodity, you 're up,"James River greeted him, as he sat down on one of the bottom bunks.

"Yeah, I 'm up,"Albus yawned,"Just got up, could n't slumber well last night."

"Me, neither, but Cedric woke me up before he left. Tried to get you up, but you were out like a log."

"well, what 's been going on ? Do Mum and Dad know that we listened to them ?"Albus asked.

"They do. Grandma told them. I 'm never getting those Extendables back,"James groaned."But I do n't think they 're too bothered by it."

"Well, that 's salutary,"Albus told him,"punter they do n't know that we 're trying to find out what they 're keeping from us."

"Definitely. Oh, but they do need to talk to us in a few minutes,"Epistle of James informed Albus,"They sent me up here to waken you up."

"You do n't call up they want to yell at us about listening in, do you ?"Albus asked nervously.

"No, I do n't reckon that 's what it 's about. They just want to let the cat out of the bag to us. Not Rose,"James answered.

"That 's odd. What else could they want ?"Albus wondered.

"Dunno,"Jesse James glanced at his watch."Well, we 'd better go. They 're waiting in the kitchen."

Albus followed James slowly down the stairs. He had no idea what this could be about. For a moment, he thought that maybe his parents were going to tell them about whatever 'Hallows'were, but he knew that could n't be it. They had seemed so diamond about not telling James IV, Albus, or Rose about them.

Albus made his way into the kitchen after King James. His parents were in there, along with Uncle Ron and aunty Hermione. Harry gestured for them to sit down. Albus sat down in one of the chairs and Saint James sat next to him, neither of them saying a intelligence. Harry went over to the door, closed it, and pointed his wand at it while muttering a spell. Albus figured it was some kind of spell that rendered Extendable Ears useless.

"first,"Harry told his Son, as he walked over and stood next to Ron,"I want to say you that I 'm not punishing you for what you did yesterday. Both of you look like you 're sitting in a detention."

Albus smiled a picayune, but James River did not move.

"I would give done the same matter if I were you,"Harry grinned and continued,"Well, let me reword that. I have done the same thing you did. wad of meter. Right after your uncles Fred and Saint George invented Extendable capitulum. ``

Harry started pacing around the kitchen. Albus had noticed that his father did this whenever he was thinking about something serious. It was the Lapplander kind of pacing that St. James had done the late day.

"However, what I do desire to babble out to you about is a serious matter,"Harry lowered his voice,"It 's about what 's been going on in the school."

Albus looked at James. Neither of them really knew what their dad was getting on about.

"St. James, when you were in custody a few weeks ago and you said your head felt laughable. Madam Pomfrey had the suspicion that someone was using Legilimency against you. I think she was right. Well, I 'm certainly she was right. The way you described it is just like how it feels,"Harry told his son,"James, mortal is trying to invade your mind."

James II looked appall. Albus noticed he was a bit paler than common. He looked very much the same as he did in the days following that detention. Albus guessed that the days at the burrow had made James leave about that awful experience.

"Albus, about that dream-"Harry started, but was cut off.

"You said it did n't mean anything !"Albus reminded his dad.

"I thought that it did n't, until I started having the Saame one,"Harry informed them,"I talked to your Uncle Ron about it and we both agree that they 're not normal dream. someone is using Legilimency on us as well."

Albus felt the rakehell drain from his font and he was sure he looked as picket as Saint James did."But who 's doing it ?"he whispered.

"I honestly do n't know, Al,"Harry softened his part and sat down next to his son."But your Uncle Ron and I are trying very hard to find out who it is."

"Why does someone want to read our minds ?"Albus asked his dad.

"I, have a few idea,"Harry answered slowly,"But I 'm afraid I ca n't tell you just yet."

Albus nodded. It was strange that his dad could n't just solve this problem. During Albus 's untested childhood years, Harry had always been capable to fix everything for him. Broken toys, minor injuries, his dad was always there to solve the problem. But this prison term, Harry could n't just beckon his verge and urinate it better.

Harry drew Albus into his arms."Now, Al, I do need to bang if you 've had anymore of those incubus since that first one."

"Yeah, I have. I get them a few times a week."

"Always the same one ?"Harry asked.

"Yes."

"And have you had any while you 've been at the Burrow ?"

Albus thought for a moment."You know, I have n't. I had n't really thought about it, but I have n't had any since I left Hogwarts."

Harry glanced at Ron and got up from the death chair."I think that 's all I need to know about the dreams for now. But if they start changing at all, you 've got to let me have intercourse right away. Just ask one of the portrayal in the uncouth room to find me. Do n't leave the common room to tell me, it 's very important that you do not wander around at night."

Harry started pacing again and he turned to look James."Are you ok ? I know it 's a shivery thought, that mortal 's invading your judgement. But I will find out who 's doing it. I do n't want you to occupy about it too much."

James River just nodded, apparently still unable to speak.

"Good. Now, it 's obviously very disturbing that soul is trying to see our idea and memories. Ron and I, as well as a few other Aurors are working to figure out who it is and why they 're doing it, so we can stop them. But for now, you two have to learn how to protect yourselves.

"Ron and I have decided that you should start to study Occlumency. I know you both already know what that is, but neither of you have had any training in the subject. If you 're able to discover it properly, then no one will be able to understand your thoughts."

"Are you going to teach us, Dad ?"James spoke for the world-class clip since he entered the room.

"No, I ca n't,"Harry told him,"I 'm not a very good Occlumens and am having a hard enough time trying to close my own idea, let alone trying to learn you two."

"Then who 's going to teach us ?"James asked, with a worried look on his nerve. He and Albus looked at each other. Harry had told them the taradiddle of when prof Snape had tried to teach him Occlumency in his fifth year.

"Do n't vex,"Harry reassured them, seeing the feel on their faces,"I know from experience that in order to find out Occlumency properly, it 's much better if you trust your instructor. That 's why your auntie Hermione will be teaching you."

Albus breathed a sigh of relief. Although his aunty Hermione was exacting, he knew she would be able to instruct him well. There was hardly an aspect of magic that she did not do well.

"I 'll be coming to Hogwarts two nights a week until you are both capable of protecting your minds from intruders,"Hermione informed them.

James opened his mouth and was about to verbalise when Hermione cut him off."Not to concern, St. James the Apostle, it wo n't step in with Quidditch drill ! I know Quidditch is the most important thing in this family."She glared at Harry and Ron, who both grinned sheepishly.

"I 'll station an owl to the schooltime once the first lesson is set up, telling you which classroom it will be in. We still need to run this by the headmaster, but I 'm sure he will not mind,"Hermione informed them.

"Well, I think that 's it, boys,"Harry strode back over to James and Albus and gave them each a hug."I do n't want you to worry about this too often. Your Uncle Ron and I have matter under control. Just concentrate on learning Occlumency. Try to keep your guard up, as well. never-ending watchfulness, as Mad-Eye would have said. I 've got to run into the Auror office for a few hours, but I 'll be back before dinner."

When Harry opened the door to the kitchen, rosiness fell into the room. She had been leaning on the door, trying to listen in. She stood up, blushing furiously and ran out of the elbow room and up the stairs. Saint James and Albus burst out laughing and ran out of the room after her. They found her up in her room.

"So, what was that about ?"she asked eagerly, once Albus had shut the door behind him and James."Any chance they told you what they 're trying to keep from us ?"

"No,"James II said bitterly, it was obvious to Albus that he was still mad about that.

"wellspring, what was it then ?"Rose pushed.

"Remember that detention that me, James, Matt, and whoremonger had to do with Washburn ? The one where we cleaned the hourglasses in the entering anteroom ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah,"Rose said warily.

"wellspring, somebody tried to read James IV 's mind during it. And someone 's been trying to read my judgement and Dad 's while we 're sleeping, too. I 've been having weird dreams ever since schooltime started, and apparently they mean someone 's using Legilimency on me."

Rose stared at him, then she glanced at Epistle of James, who had sat down on Rose 's bed."You 're life-threatening ?"

"Yep,"James confirmed,"And Dad wants me and Albus to learn Occlumency to try and stop them. I get the intuitive feeling something 's occurrence. I 'm not certain what, but all the adult seemed a bit worried when they were telling us this. Dad does n't sleep with who 's doing it or why. Well, he has an estimation why, but he wo n't tell apart us. Figures."Jesse James punched one of the pillows."I guess I 'm not trustworthy."

"Who 's didactics you ?"rosiness asked.

"Your mum,"Albus answered."She 's coming to the castling two night a week as soon as everything 's straightened out with Professor Kendrick."

"wellspring, that 's adept, then. I hope you two are commodity at Occlumency,"Rose said,"But do you two get the feeling this whole intellect reading thing might feature something to do with what they 're keeping from us ?"

"Seems likely,"Albus agreed.

James nodded."We 've got to figure out what they 're keeping from us. We 'll bulge once we 're back at school. And I do n't opine we should tell anyone what we 're doing, since Dad 's teaching there. I do n't think he 'd be too well-chosen if he found out what we 're up to."

"I suppose you 're right,"rosiness responded.

"Yeah,"Albus said. He did n't like the estimation of keeping something this big from John, mat, and Amanda, but he could see James 's gunpoint. Their father did n't want them to jazz about whatever this is, and if he found out they were looking, it would make it harder to reveal the secret.

"James IV !"a voice shouted from downstairs,"Come help with dinner, please ! I 've got Ben cutting up vegetables and you can aid him !"

James got up and went over to the door,"Aw, Mum ! Why ca n't Teddy do it ? He can do it by magic and it 'd go faster !"

"Teddy 's helping Victoire work ! Now get down here, please !"Ginny screamed back.

James snorted and looked at Albus and Rose, who were giggling. They were for sure that teddy bear and Victoire were not studying, but were in fact hiding away somewhere, snogging.

"King James I !"his mother shrieked.

King James stomped out of the elbow room and down the stairs, muttering something about Muggle cooking.

pink wine got up from the bed and shut the door behind James. She turned back to Albus."Ok, we 've got to ask Uncle government note what he knows about werewolves tonight after dinner."

"Yeah, we should. He 's leaving tomorrow. Do you really think he knows something that we have n't already read in the ledger ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm not certain. But what I want to live is why person would n't take the Aconitum lycoctonum potion or why it would n't work,"rosiness told Albus as she sat down side by side to him.

"commodity estimate. The Koran I read did n't observe anything like that. But if lusterlessness 's a werewolf, then he 's definitely not taking that potion every month."

"Or it 's not working for him,"Rose suggested.

"Yeah, that too. But what are we going to recount Uncle account when he asks why we want to do it about the wolfbane potion ?"

"I 've got it taken care of,"Rose told him,"I 'll tell him that professor Slughorn gave us excess recognition to inquiry an advanced potion. And we 'll say that Slughorn let us do it in grouping of two and you 're my partner."

"Wow ! That 's upright thinking, rose wine,"Albus said excitedly,"I 'd never be able-bodied to come up with that."

"It just came to me last night. I knew we 'd need an alibi because we do n't learn about werewolf until third gear year."

"pink wine ! Albus ! I need your avail for dinner party, please !"Ginny screamed up the stairs.

"Alright, Mum !"Albus answered,"We 'll be right there !"He and rosebush went downstairs, where they were immediately put to lick slicing bread.

*****

Supper was of late that Night, and not nearly as pleasurable as Christmas supper. Everyone wanted to await until Harry returned from the Auror office to eat, and he did not get back until nearly eight o'clock. Once Harry walked in the threshold, everyone sat down and started eating.

"I 've got some bad news program,"Harry announced as he poured some butterbeer for himself. Everyone stopped eating and looked at him."Someone was found dead this dawning in their house. Jasmine Lomski. She worked in the Magical Law Enforcement Office. Avada Kedavra was the cause of death. It 's looking very suspect. I 've got individual investigating, but so far nothing 's been found."

"Lomski ?"Ben asked, his case was white. He was looking at James, whose font was equally pale."There 's a fille in our class, a Ravenclaw, Rachael Lomski. Are they related ?"

Harry nodded,"Yes, that 's her mother. Jasmine 's married man, Connor, was taking Rachael and the other kids to see their grandparents for Dec 25, so they were not home at the fourth dimension. Jasmine did not go with them because she had to make tomorrow.

"But I want everyone to be intimate that the former Aurors and I are doing all we can to ascertain out who did this, and who killed Professor Torro, and hopefully we 'll be able to collar whoever did it soon."

"You think the two execution are related, then ?"Chester A. Arthur asked.

"I really ca n't be certainly yet, but I do birth a feeling they are,"Harry answered.

The eternal rest of the repast was spent discussing the suspicious killings, and no one really had much of an appetite anymore. Hugo and Lily did not pay often attention to the conversation, and after they finished eating they ran off to flirt with their Christmas present tense. Albus mostly pushed his food around his plate. He could n't assist but marvel if the mysterious killings had something to do with his unusual dreams. James II seemed to be worried, as well. He was also not eating, and his face had not regained any vividness since their dad 's announcement. Ben and pink wine were n't eating either, although they looked less worried than James did. teddy, Victoire and Gabriella spent much of the meal whispering to each other with disturbed looks on their faces.

After everyone had eaten whatever they could, pecker excused himself to the kitchen to get a cup of tea. arise glanced at Albus and they both got up and followed him.

"Um, Uncle placard ?"Rose asked tentatively,"I was wondering if Albus and I could talk to you, er, in individual ?"

"Sure ..."poster answered warily, he was obviously wondering what they were up to."Let 's go into your granddad 's study."

Grandpa Weasley 's study was always an interesting position to visit. It was filled with all sorts of muggle devices that were in various states of disrepair. When Albus walked into the room, the kickoff thing he noticed was the broken computer sitting on the desk. That had been a lay out from Albus 's Aunt Hermione. Hermione 's parents had recently gotten a new computer and Hermione was able to get their old one to give to Arthur. He had been thrilled and had spent much of the holiday taking it apart.

"So, what can I help you with, Rose ?"Bill asked.

"well, um, I was wondering if you knew anything about the wolf's bane potion,"rose wine told him.

Bill spat out the mouthful of tea that was in his mouth."Wolfsbane potion ? Well, I do know a bit about that. But why do you take to eff about it ?"

"We 're doing an spare credit essay for Slughorn on shape up potions. We picked the Wolfsbane potion. Now, we 've learned a bit about it from Book, but I 've got a few former questions,"Rose said.

"Sure, go ahead and ask,"measure sat down in Arthur 's chairman and put his ft up on the desk.

Rose and Albus sat down in two other professorship."I guess I was wondering if there 's ever been a case where the Wolfsbane potion has n't worked ?"pink wine asked.

"It 's uncommon,"Bill told them,"But not unheard of. There have been a few masses that the potion has n't worked on. It 's hard to live for sure how many because there are n't a whole lot of werewolves to begin with anyway. And many do not describe how the potion works for them."

"Ok,"rosebush said, while she pretended to get notes on a piece of sheepskin,"Why would n't it solve ? Or why would n't someone need it ?"

"A few werewolf have been supersensitized to the potion, or to one of the ingredients in it, so that 's why it does n't bring for some. And they 'd obviously quit taking it if that happened. There 's also a fairly new study about the affects of emotions on the potion. A few people have reported that the potion does not always body of work well, depending on what variety of mode the person is at the sentence of transformation. Which makes sense, since the nature of the transmutation depends on emotions as well. Then there 's a second work that 's trying to figure out why the potion just does n't mould. There are a few werewolves where it has no outcome whatsoever. As far as why individual would n't contain it, it 's a very hard potion to make. Not many hoi polloi are able to make it. Because of that, it 's toilsome to receive it."

"Oh,"pink wine looked up from her parchment,"I think that 's all I need to cognize for now. I 've gotten scads of information from books. Albus and I should be capable to indite the report now."

neb got up from his chair,"Good. Glad I could help."He walked quickly out the door, Albus guessed he wanted to get back to the discussion about Jasmine Lomski 's murder.

Albus and pink wine left the room and went back up to rose 's bedroom."Well, what do you think ?"rose wine asked Albus.

"I dunno. Maybe he 's not able to get the potion ?"

"Or he 's allergic to it,"Rose suggested.

"But what about that whole emotions affecting the potion thing ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm not sure. Do you remember what matte 's been like every time he 's gotten sick ?"

"No. I mean, usually he 's bore, but that 's not really emotion. I 'd take he 's nervous about it, but I bet all loup-garou are nervous about transforming."

"Probably. I guess we 're just going to have to keep open watching him,"Rose told Albus.

"I suppose. I wish he 'd just secern us."

"He 's probably afraid to. Afraid we wo n't be admirer with him anymore,"pink wine said in a anguish voice.

"Well, that 's not true ! We 'd never abandon him like that !"

"I know, Albus,"blush wine sighed,"I just bid there was a way to let him know that."

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Weasley-Potter family unit tree diagram
Bill-Fleur Charlie-Katherine ( witch ) Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Victoire, 7th yr Francis Edgar Stanley, 6th year Georgia, 5th year
Gabriella, 5th year Calluna vulgaris, 4th year Bradley, 3rd year
Ben, 2nd year soft touch, 3rd class Cedric, 2nd twelvemonth
Eddie, 5 years old Samantha & Lindy ( Gemini the Twins ), 6 years old

George-Alicia Spinnet Ron-Hermione Ginny-Harry
Fred, 4th twelvemonth Rose, 1st year King James I, 2nd year
Angie, 8 years old Hugo, 9 years old Albus, 1st year
Lily, 9 years old
*all in Gryffindor*

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A/N : I hope you liked it ! My Weaslye-Potter family tree is above. I hope it helps clear up any confusion. I put Ron & Ginny in there even though I do n't own their tiddler. I thought it would be more terminated that way. Any similarities between the above ( besides Ron & Ginny 's phratry, obviously ) are merely a coincidence.

Thanks as always to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my other sister, and my chum. Thanks to inkheart for their review. Please read & brushup !

Disclaimer- I do not own Harry ceramicist. Nor do I own Nintendo, the Nintendo DS, or beast Crossing.

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Before Albus knew it, the Christmastide holiday was over. The remainder of the break was not nearly as eventful as the first few days. The day after Harry came home with the news of Jasmine Lomski 's decease, throwaway, Fleur, Ron, Hermione, and the rest of Albus 's cousin-german left to inflict early menage. life history at the tunnel became practically calmer. James II and Albus spent much of their clock time playing Quidditch outside. Harry had let Albus use his broomstick. James was able to help Albus practice his accomplishment as a chaser, and seemed pretty confident by the end of the holiday that Albus would make the squad next year. Whenever Teddy was n't working at Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, he visited and played Quidditch with James and Albus. Lily often hung around while the games were taking place and would beg the boys to let her have a go on one of the Calluna vulgaris. Occasionally, one of them would take up shame on her and bring her their heather. Eventually, James and Albus realized that they had neglected their homework long enough and had to spend the whole death day of break working on it. It took them much longer than usual, as they did not possess rose there to help.

Harry spent much of the last few days of break popping in and out of the Auror office staff. He left early in the day and came back late in the evening. He always came home looking tired, and Albus could state that the investigation was not going well. His mum, grandmother, and grandad, seemed occupy as well, although they tried not to advert item in strawman of the children. James and Albus had tried repeatedly to listen in on their conversations, but Molly was much more watchful of them ever since she caught them using Extendable ear. She had a knockout sentence keeping chemise out of the conversations, though, because he was of age and out of school. However, Molly prevented Teddy from giving any information to James or Albus.

On his way back to Hogwarts, Albus found himself wandering down the corridor in the Hogwarts Express with Rose, yet again looking for a compartment. Only this fourth dimension, he was in search of a particular one, the one that John, mat, and Amanda were in.

About halfway down the train, Albus and pink wine spotted their Quaker in one of the compartments. There was another girl in it, too. Albus recognized her as matte 's one-time sis, Amy.

"Hi !"Albus grinned at his friends as he entered the compartment and sat down next to John.

"Hi,"everyone greeted him and Rose.

"So, how was everyone 's holiday ?"Rose asked.

"Great !"John smiled widely,"Got a well load of present tense. All my relation were there at some gunpoint or another. Saved all my prep for yesterday, but somehow managed to get it done."

"Mine was nice, too,"Amanda answered, as she reached into her bag,"But I 've got to show you guys something."She pulled out a little, rectangular object and opened it to expose two CRT screen, one above the other.

"What the bloody underworld is that ?"St. John the Apostle asked, gaping at it.

"It 's called a Nintendo DS,"Amanda answered,"I got it for Chanukkah. It 's something you play video games on."

"Oh, I 've heard of video game,"lav said,"But I 've never seen one before. Do you let any game for it ?"

"I 've got a few,"Amanda told him,"My favorite is Animal hybridization. You get to make your own town and animals are your neighbors. I 've named my town Hogsmeade."

"Awesome,"Matt smiled. `` I got one of those a while ago. ``

"I hate to tell you, but that 's not going to lick at Hogwarts,"rosiness announced.

"Why not ?"John looked at her like she was crazy.

"Too much magic around. Makes electronics not mould right,"Rose explained,"It 's in Hogwarts, A History."

"Oh,"Amanda 's grinning faded as she put her DS away,"I guess I 'll just accept to play it at home over the summer. My parents thought I would like it and it 's fairly fun. They were n't really sure enough what to get me. They could n't get me anything to do with magic. It was quite unusual, really, not being able-bodied to talk a lot about deception during break.."

"And how was your vacation, mat ?"Rose asked.

Albus turned to look at lusterlessness. He was just now noticing how tired he looked. He also had some foul looking partially healed baseball swing all over his face and arms. His munition were bruised as well, and he looked like he was about set to go down asleep. Albus and Rose exchanged glance, but did n't say anything.

"It stunk,"matte said flatly. He looked at his Sister, who gave him a look.

"Why ?"John asked.

"wellspring, I told you how I hate going to Commonwealth of Australia. We spent the whole break there, at my grandparents house. They 're so dinner dress, I could n't do anything fun."

"How 'd you get all those track ?"John the Divine wondered, as he stared at a particularly cruddy cut on matt 's forearm.

flatness shifted his eyes and once again looked at Amy, who nodded her head."I fell out of a tree."

"What ? !"John exclaimed,"How 'd you manage that ?"

"wellspring, you know how clumsy I am. And I was outside, trying to deliver some fun, because my grandparents wo n't let me do anything in the house. I was up pretty highschool and I slipped. I fell all the way to the soil, hitting every branch as I went. Got knocked out halfway down. My grandma heard the interference and ran outside and found me unconscious on the solid ground. She freaked out, saying this is why I needed to stay inside and do homework all day,"lusterlessness informed them. Everyone was staring at him, unable to think of something to say."Anyway, my mum and dad came rushing out, and I wound up spending a few days in the hospital down there."

"Whoa,"Amanda whispered,"I 'm sword lily you 're all right. That 's scary, though."

"Yeah,"whoremonger agreed,"Is that why you 're so tired ?"

"Nope, that 's the jet lag,"Matt answered.

"The what ?"

"Jet lag,"Matt repeated,"It 's what you get when you fly to unlike time zone. Your sleep gets all messed up."

"You flew to Australia ?"Albus looked amazed,"Blimey ! That 's a hanker time to be on a broom."

flatness laughed,"Oh, no ! We flew in an airplane."

"Wow !"can looked impressed,"But why did n't you just Apparate or something ? Or Flooed ?"

"The Aussie Ministry does n't allow out of rural area Apparition,"Amy said, speaking for the showtime metre."And our grandparents are Muggles, so we could n't Floo."

"That 's fairly amazing,"blush wine told matte,"My grandpa loves all thing to do with Muggles. One of his life 's ambition is to find out how airplanes stay up."

Everyone laughed. The compartment doorway opened and Victoire walked in."Hi, Amy ! I 've been looking for you."

"Hey,"Amy greeted her,"privation to delay her with us ?"

"Sure,"Victoire sat down following to Amy. She glanced at Matt, who was leaning up against the window."Is your chum ok ?"

"Yeah, he 's fine. He just fell out of a Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree over prison-breaking and spent a few daytime in the hospital. That and the jet lag are why he 's so tired,"Amy said quickly.

At that moment, the compartment door opened again to let on the person Albus wanted to see the to the lowest degree. A smug looking Quinton Willinson walked in and and shut the door behind him.

"Something you want, Willinson ?"Victoire stood up and stared at him.

"Oh, just a Logos with your cousin,"Willinson glared at Albus,"idea if we speak in individual ?"

"Yes, as a affair of fact, I do,"Victoire growled,"Whatever it is, you can say it here, in front of all of us."

"mulct,"Willinson turned to Albus,"Just thought I 'd let you know that you 'd better see yourself, Potty."

Victoire stepped between Albus and Willinson."And why is that ?"

"Oh, you did n't know ?"Willinson smiled at her,"sister Potty here put that Exploding Eclair on my home at Slughorn 's party. Him and his little posse comitatus here."

"How d'you pattern that ?"Victoire continued to stare at him.

"I just know,"he answered,"So, you 'd break spotter out, toilet and friends."

Amy got up and stood next to Victoire."Is that a scourge, Willinson ? Because anyone who does anything to my little brother rue it."

"Oh, maybe it 's a menace, maybe it 's not,"Willinson sneered at her,"But I would n't vex too a lot about your infant brother. Looks like he 's got plenty legal injury already. Looks like he 's been hit by a truck."

In a span of five seconds, Amy had whipped out her wand and had Willinson pinned against the wall, holding her wand to his face."Do not match Matt, or you will learn to regret it. You understand ? Do not do anything to him. I will find out, and you will care you 'd never even talked to him. Get it ?"Amy let him go, but did not put her wand away.

"You would n't try anything with the school principal lady friend here,"Willinson gestured to Victoire, as he pulled out his own wand.

"This Head Girl does not care what Amy does to anyone, if they do anything to her family. And, I can add that if you do anything to my family, you 'll rue it as well,"Victoire pulled out her own wand and pointed it at Willinson,"Now I suggest you get out, before we 're forced to hex you."

Willinson, realizing defeat, scowled and put his wand away. He opened the compartment door and with one lastly spotlight at Albus, he left.

"Wow,"Albus muttered, gazing at Victoire and Amy,"I 've never seen him back down before."

"When you 've spent almost seven years in the Lapplander castle as him, you learn that he only does something when he has the upper hand. He 'd never try anything when there are a couple the great unwashed up against him. Especially people who are punter witches and wizards than he is. He 's really quite stupid, honestly. He brags, but I do n't think he 'd win a duel against anyone above tertiary yr,"Victoire told them.

"Every class, he picks a new first year to torment. We 've never been able to figure out why he picks the one he does. Usually it 's the smallest or most frightened one. I 've got no idea why he 's picked you, Albus,"Victoire continued,"He was picked on a lot when he was a for the first time twelvemonth. Ever since then, he 's done the same thing to other for the first time years. It 's pretty low, if you ask me. If he 's got to bedevil someone, he ought to do it to someone finisher to his age.

"It 's because he ca n't win a duel with mortal his own age. If he tried anything with anyone in our category, he 'd be hexed so lots you could n't make out him. But anyway, I would not put it past him to try something on you, Albus. Just take sure you 're never alone in the corridors and you 'll be hunky-dory. He wo n't try anything where there 'd be looker or someone to stop him."

Amy nodded in accord,"Same with you, flatness,"she looked at her Brother, but he 'd fallen asleep."And probably the rest of you, too."

Albus nodded,"Who 'd he pick on finale yr ?"

"James,"Victoire said,"But after James pulled a few antic on him, he gave up. It was quite risible, really. He tried picking on Ben after that, but I stopped him."

"How ?"rose wine asked.

"He 's got this weird puppy love on me. Has ever since second base year. But I 'd never go out with him, of trend. He 's such a git. Actually asked me to go to Hogsmeade our third year,"Victoire laughed,"But boy was he mad when I started going out with shift. Still has n't given up. Somehow he thinks that with Teddy out of the palace, I 'll decide to go out with him."

"It 's the Veela roue,"Amy told them.

"He 's about the only one, though. Everyone else gave up once I started going out with Teddy."

"Wow,"rosebush said,"I just thought he did n't like us for some reason."

"wellspring, he does n't. But I do n't know why. It 'll be sound for everyone when he 's gone next twelvemonth,"Amy stated,"But for now, just take a crap sure you 're never alone in the corridors."

*******

Once the new condition started, Albus and his friends found themselves up to their ears in homework. The teachers had already started warning them about final exam exams, despite the fact that they were calendar month away. It was n't only the start eld that were bombarded with employment. It seemed that all the students had more work than normal. The vulgar room often did not empty out until past midnight, with some students falling asleep in their recitation. The one-fifth and seventh days were spending Thomas More time than everyone else studying, due to the fact that their O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s seemed much closer from this side of Yuletide.

Albus and his friends tended to divide their time evenly between the uncouth way and the subroutine library. They went wherever it was less crowd together. Albus and rosebush were finding it difficult to find clip to research about whatever Hallows were, especially since they were rarely without John, Matt, and Amanda. Albus doubted whether James was getting any research in either, because Samantha Meyers had increased Quidditch practice session to four dark a week due to the impending Gryffindor vs. Slytherin match.

One Night, Albus and blush wine did manage to determine metre to enquiry because flatness, whoremonger, and Amanda were all doing custody with Filch. Filch had caught them dueling with Scorpius Malfoy and put all four of them in detention. The only reason Albus was not involved was because Harry had been speaking to Albus about his dreams. They had resumed once he was back in school, although they had n't changed at all. blush wine had been talking to prof Patil about a prep she thought she had messed up on, but it turned out she had a gotten a 100 % on it like usual. Albus had been trying to do a charms essay when rosiness came up to him and asked him if he wanted to go research. Albus was all too eager, since his charms essay was not going very well. So, the two first cousin made their way to the library.

"I suppose we could start by researching about the ruination of Voldemort,"Rose suggested as they browsed through the Bible,"Since we 're middling for sure it has something to do with that."

"All right,"Albus agreed,"That makes sense."Albus bent down and picked out a book,"The Rise and Fall of Lord Voldemort, by Minerva McGonagall. Hmm, McGonagall, that sounds so companion ... Where have I heard that before ?"

"Professor McGonagall,"blush wine reminded him,"She taught Transfiguration of Jesus when our parents were here, and our grandparents. She was in the last conflict, so that 'd be a dependable al-Qur'an to attend at."

Albus took the book over to a tabular array and started reading it. rose found another book and sat down next to him. Albus decided just to bug out at the beginning, as he had no estimate where Hallows would arrive into the picture. The outset chapter was about Voldemort 's childhood. Albus already knew about that, so it was all basically critical review. But he read intently anyway, just hoping that he 'd record the Bible 'Hallows'. However, as the eve wore on, and Albus grew steadily more tired, he did not rule out anything new.

"Find anything yet ?"he asked Rose.

Rose looked up from her script, which was entitled The chronicle of the Dark humanities in Great United Kingdom,"No, nothing I do n't already know. And no mention of any Hallows."

Albus sighed,"Me either. Curfew 's soon. Why do n't we just take the books out ?"

"Sounds dependable to me,"Rose agreed. She walked over to ma'am Pince while Albus followed.

dame Pince glared at them as they handed her the books. She read the names and gave them a foreign flavor, like she was wondering why they wanted to register them. Albus did n't cope with her gaze, but he knew why she was staring at them. Why would Harry potter 's son penury to learn about the downfall of Voldemort ? After she seemed satisfied with staring at them, she checked the books out and handed them back."They 're due in a month. Do not write in them or bend them or injure them in any way."

Once they were out of the library, they relaxed,"She 's a wacko,"Albus whispered.

"She 's a bit unknown, yeah,"rose wine agreed.

"Acts like the playscript are gold,"Albus giggled.

"She thinks we 're up to something, the way she stared at us like that,"rose wine said.

"I know, but that makes sense."

"Yes, I suppose it does. I just hope she does n't tell your dad,"Rose told him as she walked up a set of stairs.

"She probably wo n't. I do n't remember they 're particularly close. Dad got in a trouble a few meter at the library."

Rose laughed,"Oh, yeah."

Albus and Rose continued their trek to the common elbow room. Once there, Albus quickly went to the dormitory to hide out his account book before his Quaker came back from hold. But after an time of day of waiting for them, Albus fell asleep. It was a uneasy sleep, as he had the Same nightmare he usually had. Despite this, he did not fire up up when John and mat came in at midnight.

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A/N : Thanks as usual to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my other sister, and my brother ! Please read and retrospect.

I am not sure when I 'll future update, since I might be in school day by the meter this validates. I will try to update soon, but I ca n't constitute any guarantees. But I 'll still be writing ! I am well into the sequel to this, I 'm on chapter 30, I believe. I 'm also working on another fic, particular to come later, which I will set out posting as soon as I get past a certain chapter in this. There are raider for this fic in my new one, so it will give to await a little while to be posted.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter. Or Ron Weasley. Or Hermione Granger. I do n't even own the small-scale owl in the owlery. Or the owlery for that matter. But I do enjoy writing this for fun !

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"That was roughshod last night !"John groaned as he sat down following to Albus at breakfast the next morning. Albus had awoken early and could n't get back to sleep. John and lusterlessness were both profound asleep, so Albus had just gone down to breakfast with out them.

"I 'll say,"lustrelessness sat down on Albus 's former position and winced as he did so,"I ache all over."Matt was just starting to get back to normal after his Tree incident over intermission. In the few days after returning to schooltime, he had walked very slowly and Albus could secern that he was sore. Albus had assumed he had gotten a few broken bones from the incident, but never asked, as Matt did n't seem too keen on discussing it.

"What 'd he have you do ?"Albus asked while he watched Matt rub his arm.

"Clean Moaning Myrtle 's toilet,"Saint John answered as he piled his plate with eggs and bacon,"It was torture. He had us do it the Muggle way of form. He had us doing it for 3 60 minutes. We could n't manage to get it pick the way he wanted it. And he made matt scrub the floor, so he had to be down on his script and knees the altogether nighttime. I could recite it was making his combat injury from falling out of that Tree trauma worse, so I suggested to Filch that I could do the floor and Matt could do the sinks, but Filch said no. He seemed to take delight in seeing flatness suffer. It was unspeakable. Amanda had to do the toilets with Malfoy. He did something to one of them that made it regurgitate. That was gross. So she had to cleanse that one again and Matt had to re-scrub the floor."

"Maybe you should see if lady Pomfrey can do anything for you ?"Albus asked lustrelessness. Matt had only eaten a few collation of toast and was wincing every time he moved.

"You know she does n't do anything for pain sensation induced by Muggle cleaning,"trick said disgustedly.

"Actually, I think I will go see her,"mat mumbled and got up from the tabular array,"I 'll see you in defence force Against the Dark Arts."

Once Matt left, John shook his promontory,"You know she wo n't do anything to serve him."

"I know, she probably wo n't if he says the hurt are from cleaning. But she will if he says they 're leftover from that all tree diagram matter,"Albus reasoned.

"Leslie Townes Hope so,"lav agreed,"He was worse live night when we were doing the detention. Filch was horrible to him, told him to scrub up faster. And Malfoy smirked at him every fourth dimension he looked over from his toilets."

"I really do n't like that Malfoy kid,"Amanda added. She had come into the Great antechamber and sat down across from Albus. Rose sat down in matt 's renounce tooshie.

"Detention 's bad enough with Filch, but Malfoy kept muttering about Matt not even being able-bodied to Muggle clean. Filch did n't hear any of it."

"Ugh,"Rose groaned,"I hope I 'm never in detention with him."

"You 're never in custody,"Albus chimed in.

"I know. I never get caught,"she grinned. This was rightful. Albus knew she had pulled her fair share of pranks on the Slytherins, usually involving some sort of sweet from Weasley 's whiz Wheezes that turned various consistence parts into dissimilar people of colour. And there was no way anyone could pin it on her.

At that moment, the owls arrived with the ring mail."Look, it 's piece,"pink wine announced as a large tawny owl arrived at Albus 's topographic point. Patches was pink wine 's family 's owl."He 's got a letter of the alphabet for you and James."

Albus called James over and the two of them looked at the letter. Albus opened it and read it silently.

Dear James and Albus,
I hope the new terminal figure is going well. I imagine you
outlay much of your metre studying. I have managed
to procure an empty classroom for our Occlumency
object lesson. They will take place in the August 6
room on Tuesday and Saturday even, at eight o'clock.
We will embark on this Saturday. I 'll see you then.
Say hi to Rose for me.
With making love,
auntie Hermione

Albus looked at James,"wellspring, I guess we 'll go on Saturday."

"Yeah, I suppose. Blimey, I ca n't imagine this is going to be fun,"James responded.

"Probably not. But it 's got to be just than the Occlumency object lesson Dad had,"Albus reminded him.

"Yeah,"James agreed,"Well, I 'm off to Potions. I 'll see ya later."

"Bye."

"Occlumency, cool,"trick said,"I wondered when you 'd set out those."

Albus had told lav, lustrelessness, and Amanda all about the dreams and Legilimency shortly after they arrived back at the palace."surmisal we 're starting on Saturday."

"We 'd better be off to pappa,"trick reminded them. Albus got up and followed John Lackland out of the Hall, with Amanda and Rose following.

Matt never showed up in DADA. Albus doubted that he would because he looked pretty worn out at breakfast. Albus figured his dad must ingest known that Matt was in the infirmary annex because he skipped right over his public figure during attendance. It was a good pop example. They spent the majority of it practicing disarming each early. Albus and John had a good metre doing so, as both of them were quite skilled with that particular spell. They were the few who were commodity at it. Most of the other bookman had a strong time with it, which was why Harry had them practicing it so often. He stressed that it was one of the most important spell to master. Amanda, in exceptional, was having a backbreaking metre with it, but she did manage to disarm Rose once during the lesson.

magic spell, on the other deal, was another calamity. prof Washbburn stormed into the room, and Albus immediately stopped talking. He was sitting at his usual back put over with John Lackland, pink wine, and Amanda.

Washburn quickly ran down the attending list, stopping at Matt 's name."Where 's Eckerton ?"he barked loudly. No one answered."Potter ! Where 's Eckerton ?"

"In the Hospital Wing,"Albus whispered.

"Speak louder !"Washburn screamed.

"I said he 's in the Hospital Wing, Sir,"Albus said.

"He 's always in the Hospital offstage. What 's incorrect with him this time ?"Washburn muttered to himself.

Albus chose not to do that question and he sat lower in his seat.

"Well, we 're going to ingest another attempt at levitation today,"Washburn growled,"But we 're not levitating feathers this fourth dimension. All of you who are somewhat skilled at this class have managed that already,"he glared towards the back board and his optic rested on Albus."You 'll be levitating books, so do n't hit anyone with them. Go on, get started."The course of instruction all took out their books and wands, while Washburn took his usual buns behind his desk and glared at them.

Albus reluctantly muttered the conjuration and his book moved an column inch off the desk and fell back again. He looked at John the Evangelist, Rose, and Amanda. After a few attempts, blush wine had managed to levitate her Quran, although she received no extolment from their professor. John was able-bodied to do it after a half hour of pattern, not receiving any praise either. Amanda was having a bit more difficulty, but was still doing beneficial than Albus.

With ten transactions left in the class, Washburn started making his rounds to all the students, and much to Albus 's alarm, he stopped at his table.

"wellspring, potter, let 's see if you 're better with books than feathering. Go ahead, levitate it,"Washburn sneered.

Albus muttered the charm quickly and his rule book managed to get a few column inch off the table before falling back down.

"Do it again,"Washburn glared at him.

Albus did it again, this time making the Holy Writ air bladder a full foot off the table. Albus was so appalled that he jerked his scepter and caused the book of account to get speeding towards one of the windowpane. Albus knew what was going to come about right before it did. The book flew right at the windowpane, not stopping when it reached it, and soared straight through. The glass shattered and showered a few educatee with shards. They screamed as the glass cut their arms.

"Potter !"Washburn shouted,"must you always make difficulty in this division ? !"

Albus did not say a news, he just stared down at his desk.

"hold ! Saturday night !"Washburn screamed,"You,"he pointed at the pupil who were showered with chalk,"Go to the Hospital fender. The rest of you, class dismissed."

"Um, Professor,"Albus whispered,"I ca n't do detention on Saturday night."

"And why on Earth not ?"Washburn seethed,"I 'll decide when you 'll do detention."

"I 've got a meeting with my aunt."

"Your aunty can wait."

"No, she ca n't. I 'm supposed to get, er, lessons from her,"Albus said, not wanting to reveal what the lessons were."You can ask the Headmaster."

"Fine. I 'll do that, then,"Washburn told him,"Now get out !"

Albus ran quickly out of the room and managed to charm up with his champion as they were entering the Great Hall for lunch."That was horrible."

"I know,"can agreed.

"I hate charms,"Albus groaned as he sat down at the board,"I do n't want to do that custody. It 's gon na be bad now that he 's got to put it off until after Saturday."

"He definitely will,"Rose agreed,"Hey ! mat, you 're back !"

matte came over to the table, looking a bit better than he did that daybreak."Yeah, sorry I missed two lessons. I heard about what happened in spell. That Washburn 's an idiot."

"So Madam Pomfrey actually helped ?"John looked at Matt in awe.

"Yeah, she did,"Matt told them,"And it 's a respectable thing. I do n't mean I could birth gone to any category today if she didn't."

"But why ?"John asked,"Did you say the trauma were leftover from the autumn ?"

"Nope,"Matt responded,"She knew they were from detention. But she healed them anyway. I guess because I was n't totally over the whole Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree thing. She seemed pretty upset about the whole thing. Kept going on about how irresponsible Filch is and how he should n't sustain made me do all that cleaning. Said she was going to talk to the headmaster about it and everything."

"Blimey,"whoremonger looked at lustrelessness warily,"I 've never seen her mad about accidental injury from Muggle cleaning before. Always says we bring it upon ourselves."

matt shrugged and piled his home with food and started eating, not elaborating on his trip to the Hospital Wing.

Albus had a strange touch sensation that there was More to the tree fib than lustrelessness was letting on about. He could differentiate that flatness was trying to spread over something up, and he could n't facilitate but think about the werewolf research that he and rose had done over break. There had been a wide moon over the holiday and Albus kept thinking that the Tree story was just a screening up. He saw how flatness had looked at his sister before telling the story and he seemed a bit leery on telling it in the first place. As Albus started eating his luncheon, he decided to take in matte carefully around the prison term of the following wide-cut synodic month, which was in two weeks.

stunt woman potions with the Slytherins was after lunch that day. Albus thought the class went pretty well. Slughorn lectured on the Shrinking solution during the inaugural half and the 2nd one-half was spent attempting to make the potion. Albus was partnered with Saint John, and although their potion was a shade calorie-free than the craved color, both boys thought they did pretty well.

`` What 's that, Potty ? '' Scorpius Malfoy appeared behind Albus as he was putting his vial of Shrinking root on Slughorn 's desk at the end of class.

`` A potion, what else do you suppose it could be ? '' Albus answered flatly.

`` feeling more like cat sick, '' Malfoy laughed as he put his potion, which happened to be the perfect coloration, onto Slughorn 's desk. `` Ca n't even brew a simple shrinking solution. ``

`` At to the lowest degree I can demilitarize someone, which is a whole lot more useful than making potions, '' Albus retorted as he started to leave the room. Malfoy had extreme trouble in disarming his spouse during that daybreak 's daddy class.

`` As if I 'd try disarming if someone were attacking me, '' Malfoy laughed. A few of his cronies giggled behind him. `` A hex would play loads better. ``

`` You know perfectly well that disarming works better than hex, Malfoy, '' Matt had caught up to them in the keep corridor, `` Professor thrower says that every time we practice session disarming. ``

`` And I suppose you 're an expert on defense now, Eckerton ? Judging by the way you looked last dark, a five year old could get you in a duel, '' Malfoy sneered at him. `` By the way, rumor has it that Madam Pomfrey actually healed your injuries from terminal nighttime 's detention. That true ? ``

Matt froze and stared at Malfoy. `` Yeah, so ? '' he whispered.

Malfoy smirked, `` After I heard that I went up to see if she 'd heal my injuries. My hand 's been aching all day. She glared at me and told me if I should think about my hand the next fourth dimension I 'm about to expose the rules, then she shooed me out and said to get to class. ``

`` Good for you, '' lustrelessness answered.

`` wellspring, why ? Why 'd she cure you, but not me ? What 's so exceptional about you ? '' Malfoy asked.

`` I dunno, '' flatness glanced around at his friends.

`` There 's something Weird about you, '' Malfoy stepped towards Matt.

`` Why do n't you just shut it ? '' lav shouted and pulled out his wand.

`` Gon na rescue your friend, Brickston ? '' Malfoy pulled out his own baton, `` Or maybe you could tell apart me why he 's always in the Hospital Wing. ``

`` Do n't bet I can, '' Gospel According to John answered, `` But I could make certain you spend the sleep of the day there, if you like. ``

`` Ooo, gon na duel me ? '' Malfoy turned to John, `` Well, I dunno what 's up with Eckerton, but I 'm going to find out. ``

`` What 's going on here ? '' Amy came running up behind Malfoy, `` What do you cerebrate you 're doing ! ? '' she shouted at Malfoy, once she realized that his verge was still pointed at Matt.

`` Ah, Eckerton 's Sister ! Maybe she 'll tell me why brothel keeper Pomfrey treats him special ? '' Malfoy grinned maliciously at Amy.

Amy stood between Malfoy and matte and glared at Malfoy, `` That 's none of your business. And if you point your verge at him again, you 'll regret it. '' She turned around, threw her arm around Matt, and dragged him away towards the stairs.

`` Believe me, I 'll incur out, '' Malfoy smirked at John, put his wand away, and sauntered off towards the Slytherin common room.

`` Blimey, '' John said, once Malfoy was out of earshot, `` He 's mad. ``

`` Yeah, he is, '' Albus agreed, `` He knows something 's up with Matt, too. And I do n't opine he 's going to give up until he finds out. ``

`` fountainhead, we ca n't let him regain out, then, '' John stated.

`` But we do n't even know for sure ! '' Albus reminded him.

`` True, '' Saint John the Apostle shrugged, `` But I think we 're right. And Amy 's so protective of him. Did you see her nerve when Malfoy asked her to tell him ? ``

`` She was seething. Just like on the wagon train after break, '' Albus said, while starting to take the air up the stairs to the entranceway Hall.

`` We 've got to find out for sure. ``

`` He 'll tell us what it is eventually, '' Albus insisted, `` He 'll realize that he can trust us. ``

`` That 's the thing, I do n't know if he will, especially if it is what we think it is, '' John sighed.

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Thanks as always to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my pal, and my other sister ! Also thanks to inkheart for the limited review. Please read and review !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter, or anything related to it.

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Albus and his friends spent the next few daytime trying to avoid Malfoy. It was n't difficult since most of their dispense with prison term was spent in the common room doing prep. matt was especially wary of Malfoy and made sure to obliterate behind John, who was a chief taller than him, whenever they passed Malfoy in the Radclyffe Hall. Despite this, Matt seemed to act like the confrontation with Malfoy had never happened, and did not appear to desire to tell Albus or his former friends what his arcanum was. John did not look surprised at this, but Albus had thought that maybe after what had happened with Malfoy, lusterlessness might want to confide in someone. Amy also had started keeping a close eye on flatness after this case, which was odd because during declination term, she would often go a day or two without talking to Matt. Now it seemed that she was checking up on him at least once a day.

`` Hi, bozo, '' Amy greeted Albus and his friends on Saturday even. Albus, john, flatness, pink wine, and Amanda were all clustered around a board in the common room, working on various prep assigning. `` What 's everyone up to ? ``

`` Homework, '' flatness groaned. He was working on a particularly unmanageable essay for Potions.

`` Well, some of us are working on it, '' rose chimed in, glaring at John.

`` What ? '' John smiled innocently, `` I 've got all tomorrow to do it. ``

Rose sighed, `` You 'd do better to start it today. ``

`` I know, '' John the Evangelist agreed, `` But right now I 'm enjoying watching you study, while I sit and do nix. '' Rose groaned and went back to her reading.

`` So, '' Amy started, as she sat down succeeding to Matt, `` How are you ? ``

`` I 'm fine, '' Matt replied, `` But I 'd be better if you 'd do this essay for me. ``

`` Not gon na encounter, '' Amy grinned, `` I 'm glad you 're doing soundly. Have you all been staying away from Willinson ? He has n't bothered any of you, has he ? If he has, I 'll get Victoire to put him in his place. ``

`` No, '' Albus answered, `` Have n't talked to him since the geartrain. Strange, really. ``

`` Well, good, '' Amy said, `` Hopefully it 'll stay that way. But do n't go alone anywhere. He does n't give up this quickly. ``

`` We know, Amy, '' Matt snapped, `` You 're not our mum. ``

Albus looked up from his oeuvre at the audio of the impending argument. He could receive sworn he saw matte 's eyes flash amber, but they were back to their usual blue within a second.

`` Jeez, Matt. I 'm just making indisputable he does n't bother you. Mum said- ''

`` I know what Mum said ! '' Matt cut her off loudly.

`` Could you please be a bit quieter ? '' Amanda asked in a frazzled tincture.

`` Sorry, '' Amy and mat mumbled and continued arguing in softer vox.

Albus glanced over and saw that she was working on her uranology charts. She had been having a tough prison term in astronomy all year. `` Need any help ? ``

`` Ugh, '' Amanda groaned, `` It 's astronomy. I 'm applesauce at it. I 've been doing this chart for the past hour. Anyone know when the adjacent full synodic month is ? ``

Both Amy and Matt jerked their heads toward Amanda. `` Two workweek from tonight. The 24th, '' flatness whispered quickly, then looked back at Amy. Amy glared at him and they resumed their argument.

`` Uh, thanks, '' Amanda looked cautiously at both matte and Amy, and then started writing furiously on her chart.

Albus glanced across the table at Rose, who was already trying to captivate his care. The first cousin looked at each other for a few s, and then quickly returned to their prep. nobody said anything for a few minutes, with the exception of Amy and lusterlessness, who were still arguing. However, they were doing so so quietly that Albus was ineffectual to make out any of the words.

`` Blimey ! '' St. James the Apostle had walked over to the table and standing bottom rosiness. `` Who died ? ``

`` Huh ? '' Albus looked up from his work.

`` You 're so quiet ! '' James replied.

`` Oh, uh, '' Albus glanced at Amy and Matt, `` They were arguing about something. ``

`` Ah, sibling love, it 's a wonderful matter, '' James IV grinned, `` So, you ready to get your mind read by Aunt Hermione ? ``

Albus looked up at the clock, it was stern to eight, `` Bloody sin, I forgot about that ! ``

`` proficient thing I remembered, '' James said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus put his books into his bag and got up, `` I 'm ready. ``

Rose got up as well, `` I 'm going too. I want to see Mum. ``

`` Ok, '' James turned around and started walking towards the entrance.

`` trade good hazard, '' whoremaster waved as Albus followed his brother. Amanda waved, but did n't count up from her piece of work. Matt and Amy were too meddlesome arguing to note Albus and blush wine leave.

Albus, James, and rose wine left the commons way to find a deserted corridor. `` Good, no one 's out here, '' rosiness whispered.

`` Why ? '' James asked.

`` Wanted to talk to you two alone about our, er, inquiry, '' Rose answered. `` Have either of you found anything ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus told her, `` I 've been reading bits of McGonagall 's account book before I go to bed every dark. It 's the simply clock time I can do it in secret. I just pull the hangings closed, and everyone thinks I 'm sleeping. ``

`` I 've been doing the like thing, '' rosiness revealed, `` But I have n't so much as read the parole 'Hallows'. ``

`` Er, I have n't even determine a book to read yet, '' James confessed.

`` Well, find one soon ! '' blush wine scolded, `` We 've got to chance out what our parents are hiding from us ! ``

`` I know, I know, '' St. James the Apostle said.

`` I 've read a couple so far, and Madam Pince keeps eying me when I check them out, '' Rose told them, `` But I 've got a feeling we 're not going to detect anything in books. ``

`` Really ? '' James I grinned, `` Are you doubting volume ? ``

`` Shut it, James, '' Rose warned, `` I 'm going to bug out looking at the old Prophet articles they have in the library. ``

`` Sounds good, '' Albus said as they rounded the corner and walked towards the Transfiguration room.

When they walked in, Hermione was standing near a Harlan Fiske Stone drainage basin that Albus recognized as the Pensive. Hermione was pulling thoughts out of her head with her verge and placing them into the basin. Albus wondered if maybe those thoughts had to do with what his parents were keeping from him. If only he could see the memories without Hermione knowing.

Hermione turned around when Albus shut the door behind them, `` Hi, boys ! '' she greeted.

`` Hi, '' James and Albus said back.

`` Oh, and blush wine, you 're here too ! '' Hermione walked over to her daughter and gave her a hug.

`` Hi, Mum ! ``

`` How 's full term going ? '' Hermione asked.

`` Oh, pretty practiced, '' Rose answered, `` payload of homework, but I 'm getting it done. I 'm afraid I lost a few full stop on the last magical spell essay. I hope I did n't, though. ``

`` I 'm sure you did fine on it, '' Hermione reassured her. `` How about you two ? How are your year going ? ``

`` All right field, '' William James replied, `` But I 'm afraid I lost More than just a few gunpoint on my last Charms essay. '' St. James laughed.

`` And I 'm not so certain you did fine on it, '' Hermione responded, `` And you, Albus ? ``

`` Oh, it 's going well, I suppose, '' Albus told his aunt, `` And I 'm afraid I completely failed the Charms essay. ``

`` Do n't interest, I 'm sure you at least scraped a pass grade, '' Hermione said.

`` I dunno, Washburn hates me. ``

`` professor Washburn, and I do n't reckon that 's confessedly, '' Hermione told him, `` But that 's not why we 're her tonight. Tonight, you will pop learning Occlumency. rosebush, are you staying ? ``

`` Can I ? '' rose wine asked, `` I 've read a bit about Occlumency and it sounds very matter to. ``

`` Of course you can stay. I do n't think I will have you do any hardheaded work, but you 're welcome to learn the theory, '' Hermione informed her.

`` You mean, we 're going to have reading to do ? '' William James asked disgustedly.

`` Of course, '' Hermione laughed, `` What did you carry ? ``

`` I dunno, Dad 's Occlumency example were all practical, '' Epistle of James reminded her.

`` I know, but I feel it 's practiced for you to get wind the hypothesis as well, '' Hermione informed them, `` Now, could you all sit down ? ``

Albus, James, and Rose all sat at the table closest to the teacher 's desk.

`` Good, now I 've got some Quran for you, '' Hermione picked up two account book and placed them in presence of Albus and Saint James the Apostle, `` rosebush, I did n't bed you 'd be studying this as well, so I do n't have a al-Qur'an for you. You can look on with your cousins and if you decide to keep coming to our lesson then I 'll get you a book, too. ``

Albus looked at his book. It was entitled, Legilimency and Occlumency : The Art of Seeing Others'thought and Protecting Your Own Mind.

`` Creative title of respect, '' James whispered and they both laughed.

`` Open the books to page five, please, '' Hermione told them, `` Now, as you are both aware, Legilimency is what is used to see into another person 's thoughts, or as some say, read their judgment. When the piece, Legilimens, is used, a person can see into another 's persuasion. This can be done if the person getting the tour performed on is awake or departed. When the person is awake, they feel an odd sensation in their school principal, kind of like a worry, but not exactly. They often also see their own memories. If the person is asleep, then they often have strange dreams or dreams about their memories. ``

`` Hey, Voldemort 's in this Word of God ! '' Rose exclaimed. Albus bill that she was leafing through the low gear chapter.

`` Yes, he is, '' Hermione responded briskly, `` master Voldemort, although he was a horrible, immorality individual, was one of the most skilled Legilimens and Occlumens the Wizarding World has ever seen. He is a thoroughgoing object lesson of why Legilimency and Occlumency are both very grave if used in the wrong way. Voldemort was able to tell exactly where his demise feeder loyalties really lay, as well as living others from knowing his innermost mentation and secrets. ``

Hermione continued her lecturing for a half hour, giving a abbreviated overview of the low chapter. This chapter explained what Legilimency and Occlumency were and went over the basics needed to try Occlumency. James and Albus were expected to read the start chapter and answer a few questions before the adjacent class.

`` Now, for the next one-half hour, I 'd care to jump the practical aspect of this lesson, '' Hermione stood up and picked up her wand. `` Who wants to go first ? ``

James and Albus looked at each former. `` You 're previous, you go first, '' Albus told his brother.

`` All right, '' James stood up and pointed his wand at his aunt.

`` Remember, there 's no charm. You 've got to close your nous. film a few minutes to try to clear all thoughts from your head. ``

Jesse James lowered his wand and started to stare directly at the bulwark behind Hermione. After a few min, a blank shell look appeared on his face.

`` good, '' Hermione said, `` gear up ? ``

James looked back at her with a neural looking at on his face, `` I suppose. ``

`` Legilimens ! '' Hermione shouted.

James looked horrified as he stared at his auntie. He dropped his verge and pressed his mitt to his frontal bone. Hermione continued to point her wand at him, but it was obvious that he was n't succeeding at closing his mind. He had sunk down to the story, with his paw on his head word. Hermione lowered her wand and walked over to him.

`` Are you all right ? '' she asked, extending her script for James to grab.

`` Fine, '' King James mumbled as he took Hermione 's hired hand and stood up again, `` It 's just, that 's exactly what it felt like when someone did that to me during detainment. ``

`` That 's because that was what someone did to you during detention, '' Hermione explained.

`` But I did n't hear anyone shouting 'Legilimens', '' St. James the Apostle told her.

`` They were doing it non-verbally. We 'll get to that point in our lessons eventually, but for now I will do it verbally so you know what 's going on, '' Hermione said, `` Now, that was a pretty full attack for the first sentence. You see now how hard it is to close down your mind. ``

`` Yeah, '' James agreed as he sat back down.

`` Your twist, Albus, '' Hermione announced.

Albus had momentarily forgotten that he, too, had to have his auntie read his mind. He got up, his gist beating fast. He had never had Legilimency performed on him while he was awake, and he did not know what to expect.

`` Try to clear your mind, '' Hermione told him as she walked a few feet away and turned around to wait.

Albus tried to clear his creative thinker, but it was hard. His thoughts were consumed with whether Matt was a werewolf or not. He was also constantly thinking about what 'Hallows'could possibly be. Not to name the understanding why he was having these lessons in the firstly blank space. It was hard not to call back about soul seeing his thoughts.

`` Ready ? '' Hermione asked. Albus nodded with a nervous flavor on his face.

`` Legilimens ! '' she shouted.

The classroom seemed to disappear as Albus was thrown into his own memories. He was four eld old and James had stolen the toy broom he had received on his birthday. Epistle of James was flying it around while Albus chased him. The fit changed and he saw the fourth dimension he dropped a sharp knife onto his foot, but instead of slicing it open, the knife just bounced off it. He had been four then, as well, and that was the first sorcerous matter he did. The scene changed yet again and Albus was seven and was playing with his cousins at the tunnel. Then he was at home, reading his Hogwarts letter. The scene changed for a final clip, he and Rose were sitting in Rose 's bedroom at the Burrow, researching about werewolves. Albus 's marrow musical rhythm faster. He could n't let his aunty see that.

`` No ! '' Albus exclaimed, and the schoolroom reappeared in front of him. He glanced around and was half surprised that he was still standing up, since James had collapsed during his attempt.

Hermione was looking at him and then she glanced at Rose, then back to Albus. She had obviously seen a bit of the death memory. `` Well, you actually managed to stop me, although not by normal means of Occlumency. But that is very effective for a first try. What was that last-place memory ? ``

`` nil, zip, '' Albus replied quickly, averting his gaze from his aunt.

`` Very well, I think that is enough for tonight. Albus, James, keep practicing. Try to conclude your minds before you go to bed. I 'll see you all on Tuesday. Good luck with all your classes. And try to behave yourselves during charm, '' Hermione added.

`` We do ! '' Saint James insisted, `` professor Washburn just does n't wish us. ``

`` Be that as it may, you do ask to pass off his class, '' Hermione reminded them, `` adept night. ``

`` dark, '' Albus, James, and pink wine said as they left the classroom.

`` So, what was that memory that you did n't want my mum to see ? '' rosebush asked curiously once they were out of hearing of the classroom.

`` Later, '' Albus whispered, glancing at James.

`` Blimey, that 's some strange hooey, Legilimency and Occlumency, '' James announced after a few mo of quiet, `` But you seem serious at it, Albus. ``

`` Maybe, '' Albus responded.

`` substantially than me. I could n't do anything during it. Just kind of forgot everything except the retention I was seeing. Could n't think of anything to do about it, '' James explained.

`` You 've just got to praxis it, '' Albus told him, `` Plus, this was just the inaugural fourth dimension. And anyway, I 've got to think of something better to do than just shouting out random things. the great unwashed will think I 'm a whacko if I 'm just shouting out 'no'all the time. ``

Henry James laughed, `` Well, I already know you 're a nutter. ``

`` Oh, shut it, James, '' Albus laughed and punched James in the arm. James punched him back and they continued that until they reached the Fat peeress. blush wine followed behind and muttered something that sounded like 'boys'.

When they arrived back at the unwashed way, James immediately went to his dormitory so he could tell his friends about the lesson.

`` So, what was the memory ? '' Rose whispered to Albus.

`` When we were researching about werewolves, '' Albus told her, `` I did n't require Aunt Hermione to know about that. ``

`` Why not ? '' Rose asked.

`` I dunno, really. I mean, it 's not like she had a job with shimmy 's dad. I guess she just came awfully close to seeing our other research, '' Albus explained.

`` dear point, '' Rose agreed, `` But you know, you 've got to praxis this. What if she does find out about that ? She 'll secern Uncle Harry. ``

`` I know, I know, I 'll practice, '' Albus assured her.

`` goodness, '' pink wine seemed live up to, `` Now, we 'd better get to bed. Good night. ``

`` Night, '' Albus said as he walked to the door to the dormitory. As he lay in bed trying to get to sleep, listening to Bilius 's stertor, he tried to close his judgment. 'Think about zippo ,'he kept repeating in his mind. But it did n't act, because Albus yet again had the Sami nightmare.

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A/N : Hope everyone liked it ! I am a bit block to admit that I have been typing my own Sister 's username wrong in the by few writer 's Note I 've done for this fic. Her figure is Dancer Of Starlight. I must be mixing it up with another site. So thanks, Dancer Of Starlight for reading this and helping me with it ! Thanks also to my other sister and my comrade. Thanks as well to inkheart, for the follow-up, you 're awesome ! Please read and go over, everyone !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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During the succeeding two weeks, tautness ran high between the Gryffindors and Slytherins. As the impendent Quidditch match grew nearer, there were more and more duels in the corridors. These usually resulted in versatile player having to go to the infirmary annexe. Luckily, no one had been severely injured yet. However, both mansion were starting to be very protective of their players. Samantha Meyers forbade anyone on the Gryffindor team from wandering the corridors alone. She was also getting more and more acute with her practice schedule. Samantha had started scheduling a drill for every night of the week. Every eventide, the Gryffindor team came trooping back into the common way well after shadow, looking tired and worn out. Slytherin was also practicing each day, but they got an earlier prison term in the evening.

Nightly Quidditch practices did not portend well for King James I 's Occlumency lessons. He had asked Hermione if he could jump the example until after the match, but she would not allow it. James grudgingly skipped his Quidditch practice, much to Samantha 's dismay. She was not felicitous about James missing recitation. Hermione actually sent her a letter, which got her to turn back torment James I about practice.

Albus thought he was making a bit of progress with his Occlumency. He had been reading the book and doing the preparation, although he did not revel it. Occlumency was like having another category to ingest, so he wound up with more homework than the rest of his classmates. Albus had not yet succeeded in preventing Hermione from entering his psyche, but he usually managed to storm her out after a little while. He was relieved that he had so far prevented her from discovering his Hallows research. Despite this, he was still having strange incubus a couple of dark a week. James II was not making nearly as much progress as Albus. He had yet to stop Hermione 's Legilimency at all, and was still collapsing on the floor occasionally. James was getting increasingly fed up with Occlumency and did not savour the object lesson at all.

As the Quidditch lucifer, and the wide-cut synodic month, grew closer, Albus started to watch lustrelessness for sign of the zodiac of illness. The day before the match, Matt almost slept through breakfast. whoremaster had to wake him up before he left for the Great vestibule. Albus watched him throughout DADA and noticed that he was much more weary than usual. He kept his head on the desk the entire class and did n't take any notes. Harry did not say anything about this, which Albus thought was strange because whenever anyone else fell asleep in other classes, the instructor woke them up. Albus could n't recall a clock time when somebody fell asleep in dada, though, because usually that class was exciting.

`` Are you ok ? '' Albus asked matt as they were walking to Charms.

`` Fine, '' mat responded. He was walking a bit slower than common, `` Just tired. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus said warily, `` But if you want to go to the hospital Wing during appealingness, I 'll offer to take you. ``

`` I will too, '' whoremaster agreed, `` Anything to get out of that class. ``

The boys immediately stopped talking once they entered the Charms classroom and went to their usual back table. Once he sat down, Matt put his head down on top of his leger. Washburn stormed into the way a few seconds later and started taking attendance.

`` I 'm lecturing today, take out your bill, '' he barked at the form. Everyone silently found quills and parchment as Washburn pointed his wand at the card. Notes appeared on it and Albus started copying them down. Washburn started talking and droned on for about half the geological period without stopping, even when students raised their hands to ask questions. Albus did not glance up to look at him at all. Once he finished copying his notes, he looked over at lusterlessness and noticed that he had fallen asleep. Unfortunately, Washburn had noticed, too.

`` Eckerton ! '' Washburn shouted while he walked towards the back table, `` This is not nap clip ! ``

`` I do n't think he 's feeling well, sir, '' John said tentatively.

`` I did n't ask how he 's tactile sensation ! '' Washburn growled at King John. `` Now waken up and pay tending ! '' he shouted again.

matt slowly picked up his head and stared at Washburn, `` Huh ? ``

`` I said this is not nap time ! '' Washburn screamed.

`` Oh, sorry, '' matte mumbled. He stared down at his Holy Scripture and rested his head on his hand.

Washburn grumbled something incoherent and got back to his lecture. lustrelessness kept his head up the rest of the stratum, but did n't take any notes. Although he did go to Astronomy after dejeuner, Matt did not look to pay a lot tending in that class either. After division was over, he went up to the residence hall and slept straight through dinner.

`` What other explanation could there be ? '' Rose wondered aloud in the vulgar room that nighttime. She, Albus, can, and Amanda were sitting around a table after dinner. The pre-Quidditch match excitement kept the chaos and interference in the common room up, so no one was paying practically attention to what they were talking about.

`` I do n't think there is another one, '' Albus told her, `` He 's got to be a wolfman. He gets sick every total moonshine and leaves overnight. When he comes back he 's still disturbed and he 's got combat injury. ``

`` I 'm sure he is one, '' John agreed, `` Just desire he tells us soon, or I 'm just going to have to state him I know. It 's gon na be gruelling to hide that we know. ``

`` Think how hard it is for matt ? Hiding that from everyone, '' Albus reminded him.

`` True. ``

`` So, who thinks we 'll win the match tomorrow ? '' Albus asked, changing the subject.

`` I do ! '' St. John shouted, `` With your cousin-german 's new broom, we 'll be unbeatable. ``

`` Definitely, '' Amanda agreed, `` I ca n't wait to see it in action. ``

`` You 've really gotten into Quidditch, have n't you ? '' Rose giggled.

`` Sure have, it 's so much unspoilt than football game, '' Amanda told her.

******

The peer was to be held in the other afternoon, which was a bit later than the former Gryffindor vs. Hufflepuff lucifer. Albus and his protagonist spent the before office of the day playing superstar 's Chess and Exploding Snap in the common room. Matt seemed too tired to play anything, so he laid on one of the couches and watched the games. Albus noticed the Gryffindor team huddled in one corner of the room, reviewing end minute tactics. James looked a bit uneasy, which was understandable considering the last match landed him in the infirmary Wing.

The daybreak dragged by, but eventually, everyone started to make their way down to the pitch after lunch.

`` Should be a good game, '' Albus said to toilet as they were walking towards the pitch.

`` Definitely. I 've been looking forward to a Gryffindor vs. Slytherin biz. I 've heard they 're the best ones, '' John told him.

`` That 's what I 've heard, too. Dad says they were usually the most exciting ace in his days here, '' Albus informed John.

`` Conditions could n't be worse, though, '' St. John the Apostle lamented. He was right. The weather was not cooperating for a game of Quidditch. Although the visibility seemed to be a bit better than Gryffindor 's finale catch, the snowfall was falling at a steady rate and it was bitterly cold.

`` Hopefully it wo n't lowest as long as conclusion time, '' Rose pulled her cloak tighter, `` I 'm freezing. ``

`` Me, too, '' Matt agreed. He was already shivering, and was a few rate behind everyone else.

Albus and the ease of the group slowed down to allow Matt to captivate up with them. `` fountainhead, I just hope James does n't get injured again, '' Albus said.

`` Bob Hope not, '' Amanda agreed.

The five kickoff years made their way through the crowds and found their way to a few seats on Gryffindor 's side of meat of the stands. As they were walking slowly to match flatness 's stride, they were some of the last mass in the viewpoint. They found their seats just before the comment started.

`` Welcome to the Gryffindor vs. Slytherin match ! '' Todd Joseph Smith shouted over the bunch, `` This is a highly anticipate lucifer that should bear witness to be as charge up as always. The atmospheric condition 's brutal, but that should n't hold on a wellspring trained team.

`` And here come the team ! First onto the pitch is the Gryffindor team. Captain Samantha Meyers, followed by Georgia Weasley, Fred Weasley, Heather Weasley, Thomas Bradley Weasley, Ryan O'Malley, and William James potter ! ''

The team flew around the sales talk once and then landed next to each early on the ground.

`` Here are the Slytherins. maitre d'hotel Talan Flint, followed by Lance Goyle, Jesse Jackson Naiser, Ferris Fielding, Peyton Haines, Hailey Odele, and Glenna Dabney. ``

The Slytherins flew once around the pitch and landed in front of the Gryffindors. The ref, Alan Oteski, had the captains shake bridge player, and the teams were off.

`` Professor Oteski releases the Quaffle, Bludgers, and fink, and the players are up ! Quaffle goes to Fielding and he 's flying towards the Gryffindor goal Charles William Post. Oh, dainty Bludger work by O'Malley ! Quaffle goes to Meyers, she flies down the rake, passing to the two Weasley pursuer. And broom Weasley scores the first goal ! ``

The Gryffindor team scored three goals within the first five minutes. Slytherin had not managed to get any finish past Georgia.

`` Of course, the turn on persona of this game is Georgia Weasley 's new Scots heather. It 's a Firebolt 3000. The fastest Calluna vulgaris yet ! It seems to be proving itself in this game. What with GA 's unbelievable acquirement, and that Calluna vulgaris, I 'd be surprised if Slytherin scores any goals at all ! '' Sir Alexander Robertus Todd shouted excitedly.

`` She 's amazing ! '' St. John the Apostle exclaimed, `` I want one of those brooms ! ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` I flew it over holiday. It was amazing. ``

`` Wow ! Think she 'd let me devolve on it ? '' John asked.

`` Maybe. If you come to my space over the summer, I 'll ask her, '' Albus told him.

`` Awesome ! '' Gospel According to John grinned.

`` Another end scored for Gryffindor ! Making the grade 40-0 in favor of Gryffindor ! Fred Wealsey has the Quaffle, he 's storming up the pitch, headed to the Slytherin goal posts. Ouch ! Hit in the backbone with a Bludger sent from Naiser. Odele has the Quaffle now and is headed towards Peach State Weasley. She passes to Fielding, who attempts to nock a goal. And saved ! Wow, I did n't think a broom could move that fast, '' Todd was jumping up and down at the commentator 's stump now.

`` Flint River does not front happy, '' Albus commented.

`` No, he does n't. wait like he 's fix to hex someone, '' John agreed.

`` Would n't put it past him, '' rosebush chimed in, `` These lucifer are known to get ugly. ``

The biz continued for a while, with Gryffindor scoring a few more goals. Slytherin did deal to get one goal after Flint River sent a Bludger at Georgia right when Odele was attempting to score.

`` cerebrate this match will last much longer ? '' Matt asked.

`` Dunno. Does n't face like James or Dabney have seen the sneak yet, '' Albus peered out at the field. `` They 're just hovering above everyone else. Looks like they 're trying to ride out out of it. I can see why. The Bludger work is getting nasty. ''

And it was. All the Gryffindor chasers were sporting some sort of injury. Georgia had a olfactory organ bleed, but seemed to be ignoring it. Odele and Haines both had taken Bludgers to arm and it seemed to have affected their ability to arrest the Quaffle.

Albus looked over at mat. He was sitting down, shivering, with his head resting on his hired man. `` You ok ? ``

`` I guess. I just hope the mates is done soon, '' Matt winced.

`` Want to go back inside ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, I 'll be fine, '' matt insisted.

`` Another destination for Gryffindor ! Making the match 110-10 Gryffindor ! '' Todd bellowed, `` And the friction match is getting ugly. Ouch ! Fred Weasley takes a Bludger to the head, causing him to drop the Quaffle. But it 's caught by Meyers ! She passes to Heather, who scores another end !

`` Flint appears to have got abandoned the Bludgers and is soaring up towards ceramicist and Dabney. What 's he up to ? Meanwhile, Bradley Weasley hits a well aimed Bludger towards Fielding, who drops the Quaffle. Back to Flint. It appears that he is getting into an argument with Dabney. I wonder what they 're saying ? Hope it 's authoritative. Looks like his nonperformance of beater responsibility has caused his uninjured Chaser to get hit. ``

Flint turned his foreland around and flew full-strength towards Empire State of the South. Odele was flying towards the destination posts with the Quaffle. `` What 's he doing now ? He 's take hold of storage area of Georgia 's broom ! Foul ! Flint River has grabbed Georgia 's Scots heather and appears to be preventing her from keeping ! Foul ! '' Todd screamed angrily. Odele took advantage of the situation and scored a goal.

Oteski blew his whistle, `` Penalty barb for Gryffindor ! unnecessary grabbing of opposing custodian 's broomstick. Honestly, you should know in force ! Such an obvious foul ! And that goal does not number ! ``

`` Gryffindor captain, Meyers, easily scores the penalty guessing, bringing the grievance up to 130-10 Gryffindor, '' Todd announced, `` Slytherin chaser, Fielding, manages to get the Quaffle and is flying towards the Gryffindor end posts. Bradley Weasley sends a Bludger towards him and, ouch ! He 's knocked off his broom. Lucky for him, he was low to the ground. But looks like he 's out for the remainder of the game, probably broke his arm or something. ``

`` This is get ! '' John exclaimed, `` I 've never seen Quidditch like this. I wonder if Slytherin 's ever lost by this lots before. ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus responded, `` But I do n't opine their Seeker 's very in effect. All she 's doing is following James around. And Flint River was yelling at her for something. ``

`` Probably telling her just to catch the stoolpigeon so they can end the wretchedness, '' John laughed.

`` James II better catch the Snitch soon, '' Matt groaned, `` I do n't think I can take much more of this. '' He was huddled on his can, holding his belly in pain.

`` Sure you do n't want to go in ? '' Albus asked.

`` I dunno, '' Matt moaned, `` Maybe. ``

`` Looks like Potter 's seen the Snitch ! '' Todd shouted. James had started speeding towards the Gryffindor goal spot, with Dabney following closely behind. `` The Slytherin beaters seem to be trying to hit Potter with the Bludgers. But, hang on, the Gryffindor chasers and beaters seem to have surrounded Potter, protecting him from Naiser and Flint. Blimey ! I 've never seen anything like it ! And it worked ! Potter caught the canary ! ``

The crowd erupted into applause, Gryffindors storming the ground, lifting James up into the air. They started walking back to the palace. The Slytherin team was looking murderous and Flint was screaming at Dabney.

`` Let 's go, '' rose said, looking at Matt.

`` Oh, good, '' Matt moaned as he slowly stood up.

`` You want to go to the Hospital Wing ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, I do n't suppose so, '' flatness said, leaning on John for support.

The five Quaker slowly made their way up to the castle. By the time they got there, everyone else had already made it back. It took them a while to climb the stairs to Gryffindor Tower, but eventually, they made it.

When they entered the common way, a party was already in fully swing. Matt made a beeline for the dormitory and did n't front back.

`` Albus ! '' James came running up to him, butterbeer in deal, `` We did it ! Beat Slytherin ! They are pathetic. And here I was, thinking they actually had a good team. No way they 're in the running for the Cup now. Blimey, losing 10 to 300 ... ''

`` You did dandy ! '' Albus grinned at him, `` Dad would be very gallant. ``

`` Proud of what ? '' a voice came from behind them.

Albus turned around, `` Dad ? ! ``

`` What are you doing here ? '' James IV asked.

`` Came for the party. Blimey, affair have n't changed a bit. The parties after we beat Slytherin were always full. Anyway, congratulations, James ! ``

`` Thanks ! ``

`` We 're not being too meretricious, are we, Professor Potter ? '' Samantha Meyers had come over to see what was going on.

`` No, 'course not ! '' Harry grinned, `` Ca n't expect you to be quiet after that win. Just smooth down by midnight. ``

`` Sure, no trouble ! It was amazing, was n't it ? '' Samantha said excitedly.

`` Oh, it was brilliant, '' Harry agreed. Harry and Samantha quickly settled down to rehashing every bit of the couple, and were soon joined by Georgia.

`` Never grow out of Quidditch, right ? '' James River laughed.

`` Right, '' Albus agreed, `` Honestly, I thought it 'd be a bit strange having him as our teacher, but it has n't been weird at all. ``

`` Yeah, it 's been pretty neat. ``

******

The party in the Gryffindor rough-cut elbow room lasted well into the eventide. Most of the Gryffindors did not even go down for dinner. Albus 's cousins had managed to work a good bit of food up to the common elbow room, so there was really no pauperization to go to the Great foyer. Harry left shortly before dinner, though, so he could join the rest of the stave for the meal.

`` Honestly, I 'll never get any work done with this racket, '' Rose sighed. She, Albus, John, and Amanda were sitting around one of the tables in the vernacular room eating sweetness. pink wine was the only if one trying to get any work done.

`` Why bother ? You 've still got tomorrow, '' St. John the Apostle commented, `` Hey, I got your dad, Albus. '' Saint John held up a coffee Frog card.

`` I do n't see why everybody 's got to political party so late into the evening, '' Rose said, `` It was n't that spectacular a win. Slytherin was dreadful. ``

`` That 's the pointedness, '' John told her, `` Slytherin 's usually got a pretty good team. It 's the principle of the thing. Gryffindor and Slytherin are huge rivals, and when we beat them, it 's a cause to fete. Even if they 're tripe. ``

`` Whatever, '' rosiness put her digit in her capitulum and continued to read.

`` And their new Seeker 's frightful, '' Albus said, `` I bet she could n't see the sneak if it was redress in figurehead of her look. ``

`` Yeah, she 's no friction match for James, '' John agreed, `` I 've heard from some of the older students that he 's as just as Ted lupin was. ``

`` wellspring, he should be, '' Albus laughed, `` Teddy 's been training him ever since James I could get on a broom. I think they started when James River was about five. ``

`` But he 's got it in his blood, too, '' Amanda chimed in, `` I mean, Albus, your dad was the best Seeker Gryffindor 's ever seen. And your Uncle Charlie was a neat quester, too. Plus, your mum played for the Holyhead Harpies. ``

`` Yup, '' Albus grinned, `` Quidditch is a gamy priority in my house. ``

`` surmisal blush wine just did n't get any of those Quidditch cistron, '' trick poked blush wine and she jumped.

`` Shut it, John, '' Rose told him, `` Where 's mat ? ``

`` Still sleeping, '' Albus said, glancing at the door to the dormitories, `` Been there ever since the end of the match. ``

`` wellspring, why do n't you go check on him ? '' rosebush suggested.

`` All right wing, '' Albus got up from his electric chair and walked to the dormitory. When he got there, he saw that mat was sound asleep in his bed.

`` flatness ! '' Albus whispered, `` Hey, Matt ! Get up ! '' Albus lifted Matt 's arm up and it fell limply back onto the mattress when he let go. `` fire up up ! '' Albus shouted a piddling louder.

`` Huh ? Wha'? '' Matt groggily lifted his head and grimaced.

`` You all right ? '' Albus asked with a look of concern on his face.

`` Ugh, '' lustrelessness groaned and sat up. `` What time is it ? ``

`` Almost six, '' Albus told him.

`` Ohh, '' flatness slowly got up off the bed and swayed, `` I 've got to go to the infirmary Wing. ``

`` fountainhead, I 'll engage you, '' Albus grabbed lusterlessness 's arm so he would n't fall.

`` No, I 'll be fine, '' matt said.

`` No, I 'm taking you, '' Albus insisted. mat did not protest any promote and leaned on Albus for financial backing. They made their way down into the uncouth room, where the party was still in full golf shot. Albus led matt straight out of portrait hole and into the corridor towards the hospital Wing.

`` C'mon, we 're almost there, '' Albus said as they walked down a flight of stairs.

`` I think I 'm going to be tired of, '' Matt groaned and clutched his stomach.

`` It 's ok, we 'll be there soon, '' Albus winced under Matt 's weight. Matt was leaning on Albus more than and More by the instant, `` gentlewoman Pomfrey will fix it. ``

`` No she wo n't. She ca n't, '' Matt 's voice wavered as he talked.

`` Here we are, '' Albus opened the door to the Hospital Wing and led flatness inside. Madam Pomfrey was waiting and rushed over to Albus and Matt.

`` It 's ok, love, come on, '' she pulled Matt away from Albus and let him run on her, `` I 'll deal it from here, Albus. You 'd outflank go back to your common room. ``

Albus turned to pull up stakes, but not before seeing Madam Pomfrey soothing Matt, who had started to cry. Albus shut the door, wishing he could do something to help. Matt seemed to be doing worse this month than he had the retiring calendar month. He had n't seemed any unlike during the preceding few Day, but maybe he was just good at hiding his emotions. Albus had forgotten to focus on figuring out what matte was feeling in the days leading up to the full-of-the-moon moonshine due to being preoccupied with preparation and Occlumency lessons. Why did this month seem worse ? What was going on ?

Albus pondered these sentiment as he walked slowly back to the park elbow room. How could he convince Matt that it would be good to tell Albus his secret ? Would he ever tell ? And more importantly, was there anything anyone could do to avail ?

`` Something troubling you, Potty ? '' a stale vocalisation said. Albus looked up and saw Quinton Willinson, flanked by two former Slytherns, standing at the top of the stairs that Albus was climbing. `` partiality a stroll by yourself ? ``

`` Go away, Willinson, '' Albus growled as he reached the top of the stairs.

`` It 's a resign castle. Not curfew yet. I 'm detached to digress the corridors just as you are, toilet, '' Willinson sneered at Albus.

`` Just leave me alone, '' Albus tried to take the air past him, but the other two Slytherins blocked his path.

`` No, do n't think I will. I still have n't forgotten that Exploding Eclair, '' Willinson said, drawing his verge and pointing it at Albus, `` I know it was you. ``

`` How ? '' Albus asked nervously as he drew his own wand and pointed it at Willinson.

`` I just do, '' Willinson snapped his digit and his cronies pulled out their wands and pointed them at Albus, `` And now you 'll pay. ``

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted, and Willinson 's verge flew out of his hand and landed on the floor. A split indorse later, two jets of light came from the other two Slytherins 's wands and hit Albus in the chest. Before he knew what was happening, he stumbled backwards and fell down the stairs. He blacked out halfway down, and the finale affair he saw was Willinson and his two friends running in the opposite direction.

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A/N : Sorry for the cliffie ! well, not really, I do like putting them in. Originally, this chapter did not let a cliffie, but it was quite inadequate so I stuck about half the next chapter at the end of this one. So now it 's a bit longer than usual.

Thanks as usual to my baby and now functionary Beta, Dancer Of Starlight. Thanks as well to my comrade and my other sister. Please read and review !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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`` You have no approximation who did it, then ? '' Albus heard his dad ask.

`` No, when Neville found him, there was no foretoken that anybody else had been there, '' Madam Pomfrey whispered.

`` Well, when I find out who did it, there 'll be trouble, '' Albus heard a bang and he figured his dad had just slammed his fist onto something hard.

`` Harry, please be a bit quieter. I 'm sure whoever it is will be punished. ''

`` I 'll be sure of that. ``

Albus opened his eye and looked around. He was in the hospital annex. Judging by the darkness outside, it must take been the middle of the night. He had no idea how many 60 minutes had passed, but he guessed it must bear been quite a few. Albus tried to sit up, but was immediately hit by a searing pain in the ass in his head and had to lay back down.

Harry rushed over upon seeing that he was awake, `` Albus ! What on earth happened ? ``

`` How 'd I get here ? '' Albus groaned.

Harry set over and hugged Albus tight. `` Ouch ! '' Albus winced.

`` Really, Harry, I 've only just healed those bone ! '' Madam Pomfrey pulled Harry away.

`` Neville found you a duad hours ago. You were laying unconscious at the bottom of one of the staircase. It was obvious you 'd fallen down, but it looked like individual had stunned you as well. You 've got a cracked skull, a few let out costa, and a broken arm. '' Harry answered, once he sat down in the chair next to the bed. `` But who did it ? ``

`` Quinton Willinson, and two other Slytherins I do n't get it on, '' Albus told him.

`` What class are they in ? ''

`` Willinson 's a seventh year, I dunno about the others, '' Albus answered.

Harry slammed his hand onto the bedside table and stood up, `` Seventh class ? ! Bloody hell ! What in the epithet of pigeon hawk 's saggy left- ''

`` Harry, calm down ! '' Madam Pomfrey rushed over to break up up the body of water jug that had fallen off the table.

`` Sorry, '' Harry resumed his seat, `` But honestly, what seventh year gangs up on a initiatory year ? ``

`` Victoire and Amy Eckerton warned me. They said he picks a first year every class to harassment. And they told me not to go anywhere alone, because he never picks a fight unless you 're alone. Apparently he 's not a very good dueler. But I totally forgot about that when I took matte here, '' Albus looked around at the empty layer around him, `` By the way, where is he ? ``

`` goose egg to worry about now, '' Madam Pomfrey said shortly.

`` Well, Willinson will be getting hold, and wads of it. And those two other Slytherins as well. I 'll be talking to Slughorn, '' Harry muttered.

`` Oh, Dad, I disarmed Willinson ! '' Albus said excitedly, `` I 'd forgotten about that. Right after I disarmed him, the other two stunned me and I fell down the stairs. ``

Harry grinned, `` Brilliant. You 're great at disarming. And if the former two were n't there, you 'd have been okay. But, it 's hard to disarm three whiz at once. ``

`` It 's getting late, I think you 'd amend give Albus a chance to catch some Z's, Harry, '' Madam Pomfrey came over holding a goblet of potion.

`` All rightfulness, '' Harry stood up and gave Albus a conciliate hug, `` I 'll be back in the sunrise. G'night, Al, I love you. ``

`` Love you, too, '' Albus awkwardly hugged his dad back, `` expert dark. ``

`` I 've got a potion to assist you log Z's, '' Madam Pomfrey handed him the potion, `` Drink up. ``

Albus took the goblet and downed it in one gulp.

`` Knew it was only a matter of metre before you showed up here, '' ma'am Pomfrey muttered, `` thrower seem to be unable to keep back themselves out of this position ... ''

*****

`` What happened, Poppy ? '' Albus heard someone ask.

`` Bad transformation, really bad, '' Madam Pomfrey replied grimly.

`` What can you do ? '' the voice asked, Albus recognized it now as Neville.

`` I 'm really not trusted, '' Madam Pomfrey sighed, `` I 'll administer the usual potions and heal the clappers, but other than that ... I 've got to get hold of St. Mungo 's. ``

`` I 'll do it, '' Neville announced, `` Is Albus ok ? ``

`` He 'll be fine, '' Madam Pomfrey assured him, `` I 'll hold open him here until tomorrow morning. ``

Albus heard Neville leave-taking and ma'am Pomfrey tug the curtains shut around one of the beds. She moved quickly around the room whispering to herself and loudly grabbing bottles off of shelves. Albus opened his eyes briefly and saw that the bed at the end of the row had the drape shut. That 's where lusterlessness was. And Albus had been right. He was a werewolf. Any doubtfulness that Albus had was gone. He felt sick with dread at the thinking of Matt going through that transformation every calendar month. Stuck with a curse that prevented him from living a pattern life history. Albus knew what life was like for a loup-garou. He heard about shimmy 's dad 's life. After Hogwarts, what would Matt do ? Would he be able to get a job ?

`` Are you awake ? '' ma'am Pomfrey came bustling over with a breakfast tray, `` Good, eat up. ``

`` Is flatness going to be ok ? '' Albus asked nervously.

`` Never you mind, '' ma'am Pomfrey answered as she walked back to flatness 's bed and disappeared behind the curtains. She spent much of the next time of day bustling back and Forth between matt 's bed and her study, where Albus could see her consulting books and mixing potions. Albus watched her and noticed she looked much more worried than usual. What was going on ?

Neville returned about an hour later, followed by a tall, balding man in lime park robes. Albus recognized them as Healer robes. Madam Pomfrey came out from behind the curtains when she heard the door open and walked quickly over to the two men.

`` I 'd better go come up Amy, Poppy, '' Neville announced.

`` Yes, I suppose you should, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey answered, `` Poor dear will be worried tired of when she sees him. ``

`` I know, '' Neville sighed and left the room.

gentlewoman Pomfrey turned to the other man, `` Oh, good, they 've sent you, healer Sterling, '' she welcomed the Healer with a sigh of backup, `` I was afraid they 'd send off one of the trainee Healers. ``

`` No, no, I insisted on coming, '' Healer Sterling assured her, `` I 'm the one in bang of the study- ''

Madam Pomfrey cut him off and gestured to Albus 's bed, `` Shush ! We 'll discuss it shortly. Albus, why do n't you polish off your breakfast ? ``

`` I 'm not hungry, '' Albus mumbled.

Madam Pomfrey 's face softened, `` Albus, Matt will be ok. You must n't worry. ``

`` But what 's going on ? '' Albus asked, `` I 've already figured it out. I know he 's a werewolf. ``

`` Be that as it may, I can not inform you about the situation, '' Madam Pomfrey said as she and Healer Sterling walked towards Matt 's bed, `` Now, it 's best for you to get some eternal rest. ''

Madam Pomfrey drew her baton, muttered a charm, and she and the two men disappeared behind the curtains. Albus knew she had casted the Muffliato good luck charm on him. He had witnessed his parents using that spell before. He sighed and picked at his eggs, but he really could n't eat anything. He knew that Madam Pomfrey really was not sure whether mat would be ok. Albus sat pondering about what could be legal injury, when a loud bang jolted him out of his thoughts.

Albus turned around in his bed and noticed that the banging was coming from the doorway. madam Pomfrey ran out from behind the curtains and headed towards the threshold. `` Who 's there ? '' she shouted.

`` Rose Weasley, '' Albus heard his cousin 's vocalisation, `` Why are the doors locked ? Ca n't we amount in and see Albus ? ``

`` I 'd rather you did n't. I 've got another scholar in here who needs quiet, '' lady Pomfrey said through the unopen door.

`` Is it Matt ? '' rose wine asked, `` Because he 's still not back yet. ``

Madam Pomfrey sighed, `` Yes. ``

`` We 'll be quieten, '' Rose answered, `` I promise. ``

`` Oh, all right wing, '' Madam Pomfrey opened the door, `` But only for a niggling spell. ``

pink wine walked through the room access, followed by John, Amanda, and James. `` Oh, Albus, are you all right ? '' she whispered as they neared Albus 's bed.

`` I 'll be hunky-dory, '' Albus told them.

`` What on earth happened ? Never saw you after you took mat here finis night, '' lav asked. He, James, Amanda, and Rose sat down on the bed next to Albus's.

`` Met up with Willinson, '' Albus groaned, `` Him and two other Slytherins. ``

`` He 's trouble, I tell ya, '' James shook his head, `` labor me mad until Victoire talked to him last year. ``

`` Yeah, well, he does n't seem to be listening to Victoire this twelvemonth, does he ? '' Albus responded, `` Anyway, I disarmed him, but his two friends stunned me at the Lapplander metre and I fell down the stairs. Got knocked out halfway down and woke up here. ``

`` Whoa, are you ok ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I 'm fine. Got a few broken bones, but they 're healed now. My head still hurts, though, '' Albus rubbed his forehead.

`` We were so worried when you were still gone this sunrise, '' rosebush told him, `` give way straight to Uncle Harry 's study and he told us you were here. By the way, he said he 'd be visiting later this break of day. ``

`` Dad was here final night, too, '' Albus said, `` He 's really angry about it. He 's going to give Willinson loads of detainment. ``

whoremaster grinned, `` Excellent. He 'll finally be getting what he deserves. ``

`` wellspring, I 've got to get going. Quidditch recitation, '' James announced as he got up from the bed.

`` But you just had a match yesterday, '' Rose shook her head.

`` Energy Department n't weigh. Sunday 's one of our common drill years, '' James reminded her. `` Glad you 're in force, Albus. '' James waved and left the room. As he left, Neville, Victoire, and Amy came rushing through. Amy ran straight to Matt 's bed with tears in her eyes and Neville following quickly behind. Victoire stared at her questioningly, but turned to Albus 's bed.

`` I told you not to go anywhere alone ! '' she sighed.

`` I know ! '' Albus replied, `` Sorry. I was just taking Matt here. He was pretty disgorge last night, and it did n't occur to me that I 'd be walking back to the common elbow room alone. ``

`` Oh, I understand that, '' Victoire answered, `` But just be careful from now on. ``

`` I will, '' Albus assured her. Sometimes, it felt like his older cousins were just excess parents.

`` well, Uncle Harry 's wild, so I do n't think you 'll feature to worry much anymore, '' Victoire told him, `` I heard him talking to Slughorn earlier. Apparently, Harry and Professor Longbottom are going to get go overseeing his detentions and let 's just say he 's not going to let a lot innocent time in the coming weeks. ``

`` commodity, '' Albus responded.

`` I 'd better be off, '' Victoire said, `` I 'm due to tutor Mark in Transfiguration in a few minutes. I was just with Amy, she started getting hysterical when Neville came and found her in the plebeian room. But she would n't separate me what 's going on. I do n't suppose you get laid ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus said.

`` wellspring, I 'll see you later, '' Victoire started to head towards the door, `` Whatever it is, I hope Matt 's ok. ''

`` Ok, now that she 's gone, I 've got to tell you about flatness, '' Albus whispered, `` Come closer, I do n't want ma'am Pomfrey to hear. ``

pink wine, John, and Amanda climbed onto Albus 's bed. `` What about him ? '' John asked.

`` He 's a loup-garou, '' Albus muttered.

`` What ? '' John exclaimed a bit too loudly, `` How do you eff for sure ? ``

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered, `` He was n't here last night when I woke up. And this forenoon, professor Longbottom and madam Pomfrey brought him here, but he was unconscious mind. ``

`` I knew it, '' Rose whispered.

`` Anyway, Madam Pomfrey said he 'd had a really bad transformation, '' Albus told them, `` He 's still unconscious. And there 's a Healer from St. Mungo 's here. They 're all behind the curtains on Matt 's bed. They wo n't assure me anything. They casted Muffliato, so I ca n't hear anything. ``

`` frame, '' rose groaned, `` Adults never let us jazz anything. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` But what are we going to do about flatness ? ``

`` wellspring, we 've got to figure out how to tell him we know, '' Gospel According to John answered.

`` I do n't know about that, '' Albus responded, `` There 's a reason he 's not telling us. I think we should let him tell us. ``

`` How do we hide that we know, Albus ? '' trick asked.

`` We just do, '' Albus said adamantly, `` Anyway, it 's got to be harder for lusterlessness to keep this clandestine than us hiding the fact that we know. He 's got to tell us sooner or later. ``

`` I think Albus is aright, John, '' rose agreed, `` He 'll assure us soon. This has got to be something he tells us. He has to be ready. ``

`` mulct, '' Saint John the Apostle sighed. The four friends sat in silence for a second, succumbing to their own thoughts about Matt 's lycanthropy.

gentlewoman Pomfrey and Healer Sterling came rushing out behind the drape, and once they did, the Muffliato charm broke.

`` I think I can treat him here, Poppy, '' Sterling said to gentlewoman Pomfrey, `` I do n't think there 's any need to move him to St. Mungo 's, unless he gets forged. ``

`` Oh, honest, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey sighed with ease, `` That must mean it 's not as bad as I thought. ``

`` No, it 's not quite that bad. It will take a piece to address, but he will recover perfectly fine, '' Sterling assured her, `` Right now I 've got to take these notes back to St. Mungo 's and consult with some early therapist. I 'll also touch his parents. I should be back sometime in the afternoon. Just keep administering the potions every hour until then. ``

`` I 'll see you later, then, '' dame Pomfrey bade him goodbye as he left the room.

`` I think it 's meter for you three to impart, '' she announced, `` Mr. Potter needs his balance and he 's got to lead a few more potions. ``

`` See you, Albus, '' bathroom got up and started towards the door.

`` Bye, '' Amanda followed behind John.

`` Glad you 're ok, '' rose got up, `` When do you get to leave ? ``

`` Tomorrow morning, '' madam Pomfrey answered.

`` Can we see Matt ? '' Rose asked.

`` Absolutely not, '' Madam Pomfrey said sternly, `` He 's in no term for visitant. ``

`` Ok, ok, '' rose responded, `` Bye, Albus. ``

`` Bye. ``

******

Throughout the ease of the day, Healer Sterling popped in and out of the Hospital flank, bringing with him diverse potions from St. Mungo 's. Shortly after dejeuner, mat 's parents showed up and they stayed until the eve. Everyone kept using the Muffliato charm against Albus, so he was ineffectual to hear in on any conversations. Eventually he gave up on trying to find out any information about Matt 's stipulation and fell asleep. ma'am Pomfrey let Albus leave the infirmary flank early Monday morning, while breakfast was still going on in the Great antechamber. Albus was quite bored with the Hospital Wing and once lady Pomfrey had deemed him well, he ran straight to the Great dorm. John, Amanda, and Rose were all sitting together, whispering.

`` Albus ! '' John shouted once Albus had sat down next to him, `` All better then ? ``

`` Yeah, I 'm fine, '' Albus assured him, `` Bit hungry, though. '' Albus piled his home with eggs and toast.

`` We were just talking about Matt, '' rosebush informed him, `` How is he doing ? ``

`` I 'm really not sure, '' Albus said through a taste of toast, `` I could n't hear a word of honor anyone was saying. They 're being very secretive. ``

`` Is he awake yet ? '' Amanda asked.

`` No, he 's not, '' Albus sighed, `` At least I do n't call up so. The bits of conversation that I have been able to get wind are mostly about figuring out how to wake him up. ``

`` No chance of visiting him, then ? '' toilet wondered aloud.

`` Do n't think so, '' Albus told him, `` I mean, Madam Pomfrey 's still keeping the threshold locked. You have to say who you are and what you want in order to get in. The only if ones who 've been allowed to sojourn are his parents and Amy. ``

`` Oh, '' privy sounded disappointed, `` I hope she lets us in soon. ``

`` Scorpius Malfoy tried to get in, '' Albus lowered his voice, `` end nighttime. ``

`` What the hell did he want ? '' bathroom growled, `` Slimy git. ``

`` Wanted to find out what 's wrong with Matt, '' Albus answered, `` He 's way too nosey. Anyway, he banged on the door and told brothel keeper Pomfrey he had a nose bleed. But he 'd only taken a nozzle Bleed Nougat, because once he got in, I saw him eat the other one-half and the rake stopped immediately. While ma'am Pomfrey was shutting the door after him and locking it, he ran over to Matt 's bed. ``

`` He did n't see him, did he ? '' Rose asked anxiously.

`` No, the drape were up. Amy noticed him and she was looking murderous. She yelled at him to go away and mind his own commercial enterprise. Then madam Pomfrey came back over and noticed he was n't bleeding anymore and made him pull up stakes. Said she was going to tell apart Slughorn about it. I hope he gets detention. ``

`` Wow, he does n't give up, does he ? '' lavatory responded.

`` No, he does n't, '' Albus agreed, `` We 're gon na have to be heedful about him. ``

`` mail is here, '' Amanda looked up and commented on the owl swooping into the room.

`` Albus, spirit, '' Rose pointed to a copy of the Daily prophet that had been delivered to the young lady sitting across from them.

Albus glanced at the paper and immediately noticed what rose wine was showing him. The front page headline was 'Mysterious decease Mystify Ministry Aurors'with a rather great picture of Harry below it. Albus turned to Rose, `` What 's that about ? ``

`` I do n't know, but I do n't like the sound of it, '' Rose answered. `` Can I adopt that ? '' she asked the girl.

The girl looked at them, and then the article, `` trusted, but I 'd wish it back when you 're done. '' She gave them one last look and then turned to her friend and the two of them started whispering.

Rose took the report and put it in between her and Albus.

Mysterious Deaths Mystify Ministry Aurors

It started with the murder of Hogwart dada instructor, Eric Torro, in the origin of September. Supposedly, the Aurors looked into the destruction immediately, but there have been no hint. Harry potter, the Boy Who Lived, the elect One, read/write head Auror, and Hogwarts DADA teacher, has been leading the investigation. But are his teaching responsibility getting in the way of his Auror duties ? There have also been no hint in the death of Jasmine Lamski, which occurred a month ago. We asked if these decease are connected, but the Auror office responded with 'no comment'. Do they do it more than they 're telling us ? It is these kinds of murders that remind many of us of Lord Voldemort 's time of terror. Could there still be Dark sensation among us ? Is the Auror Office doing enough to break them ? And more importantly, should Harry ceramist be teaching minor when his efforts are obviously needed in the Auror position ? Despite this, Harry ceramicist assures the Wizarding World that matter 'are under control and there is no need to concern .'mass are being murdered and the murderers are not being caught. It might indeed be time to worry.

`` That 's rubbish ! '' Albus shouted when he finished the article.

`` What ? '' John asked, trying to study upside down.

`` Read this, '' Albus grumbled as he handed John and Amanda the newspaper. `` Who wrote it ? '' he asked Rose.

`` Rita Skeeter, '' rose wine told him.

`` Figures ! '' Albus shouted, `` She 's always twisting the truth. ``

`` DOE n't face like the instructor are too happy about it, '' rose pointed to the stave table, where all the teachers were whispering amongst themselves. Most of them wore flavour of worry and anger. The only one who was n't whispering was Washburn, who was glaring at the students, just like he usually did. Harry was noticeably absent from the table.

`` Blimey, '' can let out a low whistle, `` That 's the way to pall everybody. ``

`` There are n't really still Dark Wizards are there ? '' Amanda asked quietly, she was blanch as a ghost.

`` 'Course there are, '' Albus told her, `` There 's always evil in the reality. But it 's not like Voldemort 's coming back or anything. If my dad says there 's zip to vex about, then there is n't. ``

`` Ok, but it 's still scary, '' Amanda responded.

`` That 's what Rita Skeeter wants, '' Albus informed her, `` That 's what she does. She 's rarely ever written anything that 's she has n't stretched the the true. ``

`` But what about those dreams and Legilimency ? '' blush wine asked, `` Even your dad admits there 's something going on with that ? ``

`` I know, but he 's taking care of it, '' Albus assured her, `` I mean sure, it 's scary, but I do n't think it required an clause that strikes trouble and fear into everyone. No one besides you lot and my family know anything about those ambition. So to them, it 's just like individual just started randomly killing a few people. ``

`` That 's genuine, '' privy agreed, `` Where 's your dad ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus told him, `` I saw him last night in the infirmary flank. He 's probably at the Ministry, trying to smooth everything over with this article. If hoi polloi start complaining that the Aurors are n't doing enough, then he could recede his job here. ``

`` Bloody snake pit, '' Saint John exclaimed, `` That would n't be decently. I 'm trusted the Aurors are doing a good job. ``

`` tranquillity ! '' Professor Kendrick had stood up. The room fell silent as he did so. `` Thank you. Now, I 'm sure most of you have read today 's front page article in the Prophet. I want to secure you all that we are perfectly safe and there is no need to worry. Certain journalists often have the use of stretching the truth in order to scare mass, and that is what is going on here. The Aurors are doing everything in their power to catch whoever murdered Professor Torro and Jasmine Lamski. I also need to inform you that dada lessons will not pack blank space today, because professor thrower is spending the day at the Auror position and the Ministry, trying to calm everyone down. If you have DADA today, please use the time to hit the books for your approaching test. That is all. '' prof Kendrick sat back down and resumed his conversation with Neville.

Once Kendrick had finished his speech, whispering resumed amongst the bookman. Anyone who had not seen the clause before, was now scrambling to incur a copy of the prophet.

`` wellspring, what 're we going to do with our free people catamenia, then ? '' John asked. The Gryffindor first yr had DADA first that day.

`` I 've got homework to finish, '' Amanda groaned, `` Essay for Herbology. ``

`` Ugh, do n't remind me, '' lavatory groaned as well, `` I have n't finished it either. ``

`` fountainhead, then you do need reminding ! '' rosebush exclaimed, `` I finished that over the weekend. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus commented.

`` Why do n't we go finish it, then, lavatory ? '' Amanda suggested, `` The uncouth room will be moderately quiet with everyone off in class. ``

`` Fine, '' John reluctantly agreed. He stood up and headed off with Amanda to finish the essay.

`` That could n't have worked out better, '' Rose whispered to Albus, `` Now we can go to the depository library and restart our research. ``

`` good thinking, '' Albus told her, `` I 've finished that other volume. Returned it a few sidereal day ago. I 'd better get another. ``

`` I 've looked through three, but there 's tons others, '' Rose informed him. She started walking out of the Great Hall, with Albus following, `` But I have n't found anything useful. ``

`` Me, neither. ``

Albus and rosiness were pleased to find that the depository library was rather empty. There were a few honest-to-goodness students who had a free period, but all of them seemed too busy studying to point out the two first year. They headed straight to the book of account shelf that held the Koran they had previously looked at.

`` Are we really going to have to look through all of these ? '' Albus wondered aloud.

`` Hopefully not, '' pink wine said as she pulled out a rather boastfully book, `` Once we find something about Hallows, we can stop. ``

`` I 'm beginning to doubt if that 's going to occur, '' Albus responded.

`` I sure hope we find something soon, '' rose wine opened her Word of God and glanced quickly at the table of cognitive content, `` exam will be in a few months, so we 're going to hold to go studying Sir Thomas More, which means less sentence for this. ``

`` Yeah, maybe we 'll get golden today, '' Albus hoped, `` Want to go line up a board ? '' He had picked out two books to look at.

`` Sure, '' pink wine followed Albus into a secluded part of the library, away from Madam Pince and the other students. They read silently for fifteen minutes.

`` well, this ledger 's absolute rubbish, '' Albus closed his showtime book, `` Says Dad and Voldemort dueled for half a day before Voldemort finally died. ``

rose wine broke out laughing, `` Really ? ! Wow, amazing that got published. ``

Albus set aside that record and opened the other one, `` This looks a bit better. ``

`` Well, smell who it is ? '' someone said from behind Rose.

Albus glanced up. `` And what do you want, Malfoy ? ``

`` Just seeing what you 're up to on your exempt time, '' Malfoy smiled smugly, `` I 'm assuming you read the article. ``

`` Yeah, I did, '' Albus said coldly, `` But it 's not true. Just someone trying to stir up problem. ``

`` Never can tell apart, though, can you ? '' Malfoy sat down at their board, `` The Ministry 's often fizzle things up. ``

`` What do you get it on about that ? '' rosiness asked.

`` cypher, nothing, just stuff I 've overheard my founding father saying, '' Malfoy looked over at the Bible rose wine was reading.

`` A story of Lord Voldemort, '' Malfoy read the rubric, `` occupy deed of conveyance. Why are you reading it ? ``

`` Just a bit of backdrop reading, never can learn too a good deal. ``

`` Hmm, '' Malfoy looked at Albus, `` So, I hear you got into a bit of a duel the early day. ``

Albus turned red, `` Uh, yeah. ``

Malfoy smirked, `` Ca n't really consider on three seventh old age. ``

`` He disarmed Willinson, '' Rose said angrily, `` And is it really your business ? ``

`` No, not really, but I still want to know. ``

`` I could 've taken on Willinson, '' Albus added, `` He 's horrible at dueling. But his two first mate got me. ``

`` That 's true, Willinson 's dueling acquisition leave a lot to be desired, '' Malfoy agreed, `` But he 's smart enough not to duel without others on his English. ``

`` Good for him, '' Albus mumbled.

`` wellspring, we 'd better be off to Charms, '' rose wine slammed her book shut and got up.

`` Yeah, bye, '' Albus muttered and followed rose wine. They checked out their Book, which got them more inquire glares from Madam Pince, and headed off to Charms.

good luck charm was surprisingly uneventful. prof Washburn did inquire where matte was, but he seemed gratify with 'in the Hospital Wing'as an answer. doubling Herbology went as common, although Neville seemed variety of tense and distracted during the stratum. Albus had assumed this was because of Rita Skeeter 's article. Both St. John and Amanda had managed to finish their essays, although toilet 's was n't long enough.

`` We should see if we can call Matt tomorrow eve, '' pink wine announced at dinner.

`` Definitely, '' Saint John the Apostle agreed, `` If brothel keeper Pomfrey lets us. ``

`` I ca n't, '' Albus said, `` I 've got Occlumency tomorrow. ``

`` Oh, that 's right ! '' rosebush responded, `` I 'd completely forgotten. I 'll just skip over that moral, then. ``

Albus laughed, `` Well, you do n't even deliver to do it anyway. ``

`` I know, but it 's really worry material. ``

`` I hope matt 's ok, '' Albus said in a worry tonus, `` lady Pomfrey seemed so worried. ``

`` I wonder how long he 'll be stuck in there, '' John asked.

`` I dunno, '' Albus answered, `` I just hope he 's conscious now. ``

`` We should probably lend his prep, '' rose suggested.

`` That 'll inspire him up, '' John said sarcastically.

`` He needs to do it if he 's going to keep up with category ! ''

`` True, '' John agreed, `` Speaking of homework, has anyone finished that essay for Slughorn that 's due tomorrow ? ``

`` I did, '' rosiness said, `` But let me opine, you have n't ? ``

`` Nope, '' John grinned, `` Want to loan me your notes ? ``

`` Not really, '' rose shook her head.

`` I finished it, '' Amanda added, she had been rather quiet down throughout the whole conversation. Albus could tell that the idea of Matt being a werewolf freaked her out a footling bit. He could interpret, considering up until a few months ago, she had n't even known werewolves were literal. But he did go for Amanda would n't start treating lusterlessness differently.

`` good, I 'll use your notes ! ''

`` I 'm not quite finished with it either, '' Albus informed them, `` I 've just got to drop a line three More inch, then it 'll be done. ``

The four admirer finished up their pudding and headed back to the common room. John worked on his essay with Amanda 's help, while Albus finished his. blush wine did other preparation, and eventually she decided to help John as well.
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A/N : Longest chapter yet, I think ! I did n't want to cleave it up because then it would experience been two really short chapters. And I know when I read stories, I prefer longer chapters.

Thanks as common to my sister and beta Dancer of Starlight, and my brother and other sister. Thanks as well to inkheart for the reviews.

I 'd also like to share that it was about a year ago that I started writing this. So, happy natal day to the story ! I finished it about six months ago.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry potter, or any of his many relatives.

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Shortly before seven the next evening, James and Albus headed to Occlumency, while John, Rose, and Amanda went to the Hospital Wing. As it turned out, the teachers told Rose that they had already sent mat 's homework to the hospital offstage and there was no want for her to call for it.

`` People talking about that clause in your course of study ? '' Albus asked his brother on the way to the Transfiguration classroom.

`` Yeah, '' Henry James responded, `` They always stop right when the instructor comes in, though. ``

`` Everyone in my stratum have been whispering about it. They try to talk quietly so I ca n't discover them, but I can, '' Albus informed him.

`` That 's what it 's like for me, too, '' James said, `` But you know Peyton Haines, the Slytherin pursuer ? Well, he keeps loudly discussing how the Auror Department unable to do anything and everyone 's in severe risk. Always within earreach of me, too. ``

`` Git, '' Albus growled.

`` I heard he scared the Inferno out of the Hufflepuffs in Charms today. Said he heard all the Death feeder had broken out of Azkaban and no one had caught them yet. Load of rubbish. Got away with it, too, because Washburn was n't in the room yet. ``

`` Probably would n't have mattered if he was in the elbow room, '' Albus muttered, `` Slytherins can do no wrong in his eyes. ``

James opened the doorway to the metamorphosis way and walked inside, Albus followed. Hermione was already there.

`` Hi, boys ! '' she smiled and gave them each a hug.

`` Hi, Aunt Hermione, '' Albus and James greeted her.

`` When 's Dad coming back ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, effective question, '' James chimed in, `` And what 's with that article ? ``

Hermione 's smile faded and she gestured for the boys to sit down. `` He 'll be back later tonight, so do n't concern about that. And as for the article ... Well, you both know that nearly everything Rita Skeeter writes is trash. ``

James and Albus nodded.

`` That clause was written for the sole purpose of scaring mass. All the it did was raise questions. The article itself was just a load of questions. The murders do remind people of Voldemort 's reign, so it was quite well-situated to just write this article and send multitude into a panic. The fact that the Aurors have no lead-in in either execution just fueled the fervidness. But I can tell you that whatever is going on, your father and the other Aurors are taking charge of it. And he is perfectly subject of teaching here and heading the Auror department, '' Hermione told them.

`` So there is something going on ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, of course of study something 's going on. There have been two mysterious murder, and someone is trying to see your thought, '' Hermione explained, `` But it is zilch the Ministry ca n't handle. ``

`` So, do you know what 's going on ? '' James asked.

`` Your dad has a few glimmer and he has expressed them to me, but I ca n't recite you them, '' Hermione answered, `` Now we 've got to take up the lesson. afford your books to page 50. ``

Albus and William James opened their books and Hermione lectured them for a half time of day. Albus found this contribution of the lessons extremely tedious, but every lesson started this way. Albus did n't expect any unlike from his auntie Hermione, who was always trying to get him to understand a lot of book. Eventually, the chide part of the lesson was over and the hardheaded part began.

Albus had been getting better at Occlumency. He had yet to forestall Hermione from entering his mind, but usually managed to ram her out after a few minutes.

`` Albus, you first. ``

Albus got up from his chair and stood in front of his auntie. `` Remember to close up your mind. Legilimens ! '' she shouted.

Albus stood there, being flooded with his own memories, for a few proceedings. He saw Henry James levitating Albus 's methamphetamine hydrochloride of pumpkin juice at survive summer 's kinfolk reunification, the prison term he got lost in a Muggle grocery store when he was five, and the 1st time he ever rode a broom. Albus concentrated hard on blocking out all mentation, and he was capable to force Hermione out of his mind.

`` Good job, Al ! '' Hermione congratulated him, `` It took you less time than last lesson. ``

Albus tried two more times, both times producing the same upshot as the beginning, and then he sat down to watch James.

Saint James had been having a much more difficult time than Albus. He had only been successful once, and it had taken him nearly ten min. This time proved to be no different, and after fifteen minutes, James II had not been able to storm Hermione out of his mind. The go try, he had even wound up laying on the floor. Hermione had thought that was enough, and James and Albus went back to the plebeian room.

`` How 'd it go ? '' Rose asked, when Albus sat down next to her. rose wine, can, and Amanda were all sitting at one of the table, doing homework.

`` Pretty good, '' Albus answered, `` It 's taking me less time to get your mum out of my mind. But James ca n't get her out at all. ``

`` He 'll get there eventually, '' Rose responded.

`` Did you get to see matt ? '' Albus asked as he pulled out his Potions homework.

`` No, '' John said sadly, `` He 's still unconscious. And Madam Pomfrey still has the doors locked. She 's got a really short temper, too. ``

`` Yeah, Scorpius Malfoy was skulking around ! '' rose exclaimed, `` We went up there and he was trying to listen in through the room access. ``

`` Little git, '' Albus muttered, `` So what happened ? ``

`` We told him to go away, but he would n't, '' John explained, `` He whipped out his sceptre and tried to hex Amanda, but missed her. brothel keeper Pomfrey came out when she heard the to-do and told him to get back to his common elbow room or she 'd get Slughorn. Then she told us matt was still unconscious and we would n't be able to see him. ``

`` Malfoy 's really got to stop investigating this, '' Albus responded, `` He ca n't recover out. He 's got to bear in mind his own business. ``

`` We ca n't let anyone find out, '' pink wine agreed.

`` But he 's still not up ? '' Albus sighed, `` Whatever is going on, it sounds really bad. ``

`` I know, '' rosiness shook her head.

`` Well, his birthday is following calendar week, '' John Lackland reminded them.

`` Oh, yeah, on the sixth, Wednesday, '' Albus remembered.

`` I think we should do something for it, '' John stated, `` Even if he 's still in the infirmary Wing. ``

`` I bet he will be, '' rose wine said, `` But we can still do something if we 're allowed in. ``

`` Let 's design it, then, '' John announced, `` Our inaugural Hogwarts natal day party. Because you guys did n't do anything for mine, '' he added.

`` Your birthday was over the vacation ! '' blush wine lightly smacked him with her pa book.

`` I know, '' John grinned, `` Anyway, we could bring some food into the infirmary Wing and have the party there. ``

`` Great approximation ! '' Albus grinned.

`` But none of us know where the kitchens are, '' Amanda reminded them.

`` No problem, '' Albus glanced around the plebeian room, `` Oi ! Thomas Bradley, Mark ! '' he waved his two cousin over.

`` Whatcha indigence, Albus ? '' Bradley asked as he sat down in an evacuate electric chair at the table.

`` We 're going to cause a little birthday party for our protagonist, matt, '' Albus told them, `` But none of us know where the kitchens are. So, since there 's a Hogsmeade visit on Saturday, could you get us some material ? ``

`` Sure, no problem, '' Mark said, `` Butterbeers and some hooey from Honeyduke 's sound good ? ``

`` Yeah, that 'd be great. ``

`` What should we get him for a present ? '' Rose asked.

`` Hmm, I dunno ... '' John stopped to guess, `` Stuff from Weasley 's is always right. ``

`` How about a Chudley carom jersey ? '' Albus suggested.

`` audio good ! '' John Lackland agreed. blush wine and Amanda nodded their heads.

`` Anywhere in Hogsmeade that you could get one of those ? '' Albus asked his cousins.

`` The Quaffle Shop should induce it. I 've only been there once. It just opened up this past tense summer, '' Omar Bradley told them, `` I can get you one. ``

`` Thanks ! '' Albus grinned.

`` But you 'll have to move over us money for everything, '' Mark told them.

Albus, Gospel According to John, Rose, and Amanda each forked over a twosome reap hook and handed them to Mark.

`` Ok, we 'll get the stuff and give it to you when we get back, '' Tom Bradley said, and he and Mark rejoined their friend on the other slope of the vernacular room.

`` It 's really rotten fortune that he 's going to be in the Hospital Wing on his birthday, '' John commented.

`` Yeah, but we 'll try to hearten him up, '' Albus reasoned.

`` What if Madam Pomfrey does n't let us in ? '' Amanda wondered.

`` She better, '' Rose stated, `` But she 's got to, it 'll be his natal day. If anything, we can always get Amy to let us in. ``

`` True, she 'd be able-bodied to win over Madam Pomfrey. She 's got some temper, '' Gospel According to John laughed.

`` Just as long as we do n't ask her too many doubtfulness, '' Rose said, `` Amy obviously does n't want anyone knowing about mat 's, er, problem. ``

`` We wo n't, '' Albus told her, `` Hopefully Madam Pomfrey will just let us in and we wo n't take Amy to do any convincing. ``

Rose glanced at her spotter, `` Well, it 's getting kind of late. I 'm going to bed, '' she started packing up her books, `` Did you all end your homework ? ``

`` Yep, '' they all answered.

`` Good nighttime, then, '' Rose got up and walked over to the girl 's dormitories.

`` I guess I 'll go to bed, too, '' Albus put his Good Book away and got up.

`` Me, too, '' John and Amanda put their stuff away. Amanda caught up with pink wine and followed her up the stairs.

John headed up to the boy 's dormitories with Albus. As Albus got set up for bed, he thought about Matt 's birthday party. He hoped that flatness would be up for it, and that Madam Pomfrey would let them in. Hopefully, they would be capable to have the party and that it would cheer him up. He also wondered how much yearner Matt would be able-bodied to keep his secret from his friends. Albus only hoped that someday, he would trust them enough to tell them. He got into bed and his thoughts drifted to Scorpius Malfoy and how wary he was about Matt. Would they be able to keep him from finding out ? And what would encounter if he did discover out one day ? The thought of Scorpio finding out worried Albus right until he fell asleep.

******

`` His saint will be realized, '' a cold vocalism surrounded Albus.

`` Whose nonpareil ? '' Albus asked.

`` The one you fear the most, '' the vocalisation answered. It was coming from a mantled chassis that was circling Albus. They were in a dark, diminished room. Albus was sitting in a operose chairman in the middle.

`` Voldemort ? '' Albus responded nervously, `` But he 's dead. ``

`` It does n't matter ! '' the representative screamed, `` There are others to carry out his plans ! ``

`` They 're all in Azkaban. '' Albus tried to progress to out who the cloaked figure was, but it was too dark.

`` Not all of them. There are some who roam gratis, '' the bod whispered in Albus 's ear, `` Now, perhaps you can help me. ``

`` Sorry, I ca n't, '' Albus glared at him, feeling braver than he had a 2nd ago.

`` Oh, I think you can, '' the name pulled out his verge and pointed it at Albus. He muttered a patch and Albus 's manus and animal foot became bound by magical rophy. `` Now, maybe you can tell me where the Hallows are ? ``

Albus 's eyes widened and he stared at the man, `` What do you know about Hallows ? ``

`` Not nearly as much as you do, '' the man answered, `` Now assure me where they are ! ``

`` I do n't jazz ! '' Albus shouted, feeling the forget me drug constrict his hands. He winced in pain.

`` I 'm indisputable you do ! ``

`` NO ! I do n't ! '' The ropes dug into his wrist even more as he felt the circulation to his hands being cut off.

`` Tell me ! '' The man forcefully shook Albus 's president. `` You do n't desire to have it off what I 'll do if you do n't ! ``

`` But I do n't even know what Hallows are ! '' Albus screamed in bother, `` What are they ? ! ``

`` You know perfectly well what they are ! Now secernate me where they are ! ``

`` NO ! ``

`` Tell ! '' the man shook the death chair so strong it fell over, taking Albus with it. He screamed as his header hit the low temperature, hard floor.
`` Albus ! '' an queasy vox whispered, `` Wake up ! ``

`` No, no, no, I do n't bed what they are ... '' Albus moaned in his sleep.

`` It 's just a dream, wake up, '' a warm deal shook him gently, and Albus wrenched his eyes open. He saw John looking down at him with a scared feeling on his look. Bilius and Ethan were behind him, glancing around nervously.

Albus rubbed his eyes and noticed he was not on his bed anymore. He was laying on the floor, in a tangle of blanket. He was sweating profusely and his heart was beating fast.

`` Should I get Madam Pomfrey ? '' Bilius asked tentatively.

`` Maybe we should get Professor Potter, '' John responded.

`` Is he back yet ? '' Ethan questioned.

Albus started to detangle himself from the bedclothes. He knew what the dream had been. And he knew he needed to see his dad as soon as possible. `` I 'm delicately, I 've just got to go talk to my dad. ``

`` D'you want me to go with you ? '' lav asked.

`` No, I 'll be fine, '' Albus got up and rummaged in his trunk for his dressing robe.

`` Are you sure ? You do n't expect too good. ``

Albus pulled on his robe and stepped into his shoes, `` I told you, I 'll be finely. '' He left the dorm and went down to the deserted common room. A glance at the clock told him it was just retiring four a.m. He was about to exit through the portrait mess, when he remembered what his dad had told him over Christmas. No more wandering the corridors. He looked around the room to try and find a portraiture that was awake. He spotted one in a picture show of a herd of cows, it was a forgetful horse riding atop a fat pony.

`` exculpation me, '' Albus asked tentatively as he walked over to the motion-picture show, `` I was wondering if you could do something for me ? If it 's not too much problem. I need you to go get mortal for me. ``

The knight puffed out his chest and turned his pony towards Albus, `` A pursuance ? ``

`` Er, well, I suppose you could see it a quest. Who are you ? ``

`` I, am Sir Cadogan, at your serve ! '' the horse saluted Albus and bowed his school principal low.

`` Um, ok, and I 'm Albus ceramicist. I was wondering if you could go get my dad. Harry ceramist. ``

`` Harry Potter ! Quite the courteous untried lad, I remember him well. I helped him on a quest once ! And you are his son. well, I shall facilitate you on your quest. I shall not let scoundrel nor beast give up me ! I will see your dad or I shall perish trying ! ''

`` Thanks, then, '' Albus responded, thinking that this was the strangest portrait he 'd ever met. And that he 'd make to ask his dad about the 'quest'Sir Cadogan had helped him with. `` Just tell him to occur to Gryffindor Tower, and that it 's very authoritative. ``

`` I will do just that ! '' the unusual knight replied, `` Off I go then ! Nothing shall stop me. Sir Cadogan lets naught get in the way of his quests. A quest to find the with child Harry Potter ! On with ye, then ! '' he shouted at his trot. Sir Cadogan traveled through a few portraiture in the green elbow room, waking up the occupants and earning nasty looking from them as he went. Eventually, the noise died down and Sir Cadogan exited the room.

Albus looked around the common room as he waited for his dad. It was very unlike in the dead of Nox. He was the solitary occupant and had his choice of places to sit. As a 1st year, Albus rarely got the skilful arm chairman near the flack. He walked over and sat down in one, but as the fire had died away hour ago, it was just as low temperature as the rest of the room. Albus sighed as he stared into the empty fireplace. What had that dream meant ? Who was the hooded number and why did they think that Albus knew where the 'Hallows'were ? As Albus thought about this, he realized that as atrocious as the dream had been, it did hold him to a greater extent information on the 'Hallows'. He now knew that they were objective. Objects that somebody was trying to locate and probably steal. He would have to tell rosiness when she got up. But what were the 'Hallows'? And why did this somebody require them ? It must make something to do with Voldemort 's 'ideals', of course. Whoever was creating these aspiration in Albus 's intellect must desire to try to carry out Voldemort 's plan. The very thought of another Voldemort sent quiver up Albus 's spine. He jumped as he heard a noise behind him. When he turned around, he noticed that Sir Cadogan was back in the picture of the cows. Albus got up and walked over to it.

Sir Cadogan placed his steel into its holster and saluted Albus, `` I have had achiever with the quest ! The Great Harry ceramicist has been found and shall be entering the elbow room shortly ! ``

Albus looked at the knight and grinned nervously, `` Thanks, Sir Cadogan. ``

`` Anytime ! Anytime ! '' the knight said excitedly, `` I must be off now, for I spotted somebody on the way back and I 've got to see what they are up to ! No villain gets past Sir Cadogan ! ``

`` Right, '' Albus responded.

`` well, then, I 'll be off ! '' Sir Cadogan drew his steel again, `` But if you are ever in pauperism of knightly service again, be sure as shooting to call on Sir Cadogan ! '' The strange horse and his trot sped out of the portrait, yet again waking the resident of the portraiture he passed through, and left the room.

The portrayal pickle opened and a very timeworn looking Harry crawled through. He looked at his son and grinned, `` Ah, the amount of prison term I snuck back through here in the dead of Nox ... ''

Albus ran towards his dad and hugged him tight. Harry hugged him back and led him over to the vauntingly arm hot seat near the ardour. Harry sat down in one and pulled Albus onto his lap. `` What 's going on ? I was just getting to sleep when that mad horse came in and told me you needed to talk to me. Would n't give way me any details, just said it was pressing. I thought he was going to awaken half the castling, the way he was shouting through the corridors, '' Harry laughed.

Albus looked at his dad and laughed nervously, `` He was the only one awake. Seemed very eager to go on a pursuit. And he said he 'd taken you on a quest once. I 'd like to know all about that. ``

Harry grinned, thinking back to the sentence in his 3rd class when Sir Cadogan had led him, Ron, and Hermione to the Divination schoolroom. `` Of course. How could I block that ? I was in tertiary class and your Uncle Ron, Aunt Hermione, and I were trying to receive the Divination way. Sir Cadogan helped us find it. We did get there, but he is a bit insane. Later on that year he was recruited to guard the Gryffindor common elbow room entranceway after Sirius slashed the Fat Lady 's portrait. Of form, everyone thought he was a mountain murderer and when Sir Cadogan let him into the tower later on, his days as the precaution of the room were over. ``

Albus stared at him, `` Wow. wellspring, he 's got to be the most mad portrayal I 've ever met. ``

`` Me, too, Al, '' Harry agreed, `` Now, what was so pressing ? ``

`` I had another dream, '' Albus whispered, `` Only this one was dissimilar. ``

Harry 's grinning faded away and was replaced by a more grave feel, `` What happened in this one ? ``

Albus quickly rehashed the dream to his dad, and by the end he was shaking again and almost in tears. Harry wrapped his arms around Albus and held him close.

`` It 's ok, Al, '' Harry reassured him, `` But thanks for letting me know. I hate to say it, but that ambition does facilitate confirm what I thought this was leading to. ``

`` And what would that be ? '' Albus asked, blinking back his tears.

`` I 'm drear, but I ca n't tell you. You will find out, though, once it 's all sorted out. ``

`` But what are Hallows ? ''

`` That 's another thing I ca n't tell you. I will tell you sometime down the route, though, '' Harry responded, `` Anyway, Hermione tells me your Occlumency lessons are going well. ``

`` Apparently not well enough, '' Albus groaned, `` After tonight 's nightmare. ``

`` It takes a while, Al, and it 's intemperate when you 're sleeping. ``

`` I know, and I am trying. ``

`` I know you are. ``

`` So, '' Albus said, changing the subject, `` Did everything go ok at the Ministry ? ``

`` Oh, that went ticket, '' Harry told him, `` Everything 's smoothed over. Rita Skeeter 's received a warning and so has the editor program of the Prophet. ``

`` Everyone here 's been pretty apprehensive. Rita Skeeter succeeded in scaring everyone, '' Albus responded.

`` Yeah, but it 'll die down. Once the next Quidditch friction match comes around it 'll all be forgotten, '' Harry grinned, `` zip like Quidditch to take your mind off everything. ``

`` Definitely, '' Albus agreed, `` Next match is in three weeks. Hufflepuff vs. Ravenclaw. I bet Ravenclaw will win. ``

`` You 're probably good. I 'm betting it 'll be between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw for the cup. ``

`` Yeah, and I hope we win it ! '' Albus said excitedly.

`` Me, too, Al, '' Harry smiled and lifted Albus off his lap, `` Now, I 've got to get a few hours sleep and you probably should, too. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus yawned.

`` I 'll see you in class later on, Al, '' Harry stood up and gave his son one endure hug, `` I love you. ``

`` dear you too, '' Albus watched as his dad left the uncouth way. He smiled as he walked up the circular staircase to the dorm. He felt a whole lot better after talking to his dad.

`` Albus, '' John whispered from his four bill poster bed, `` Are you all right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus whispered back as he climbed into bed, `` Are Ethan and Bilius dormancy ? ``

`` I think so, one of them started snoring a few mo ago, '' John told him.

`` goodness. I had another one of those pipe dream where person 's using Legilimency on me. ``

`` I figured. Was it the like one ? ``

`` No, this one was dissimilar. My dad says it confirms some of his suspicions, which is n't really good. He 'll carry care of it, though. ``

`` trade good. So he 's back, then ? ``

`` Yup, everything 's fine with the Ministry and the Prophet, now. Well, Rita Skeeter and the editor of the Prophet got into a bit of trouble, '' Albus laughed.

`` That 's expectant ! I 'm happy your dad 's back. Now things can get back to normal. Well, as normal as they ever are around here. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said softly, `` Well, good night. ``

`` 'Night. ``

******

Albus did n't get much sleep that night. view of his new incubus kept him up the rest of the nighttime. He gave up trying to catch some Z's by 7am and got up. By the fourth dimension John woke up, he was ready to go to breakfast. The two boy met Rose and Amanda at the Gryffindor table and had breakfast. Albus noticed that there was a lot of whispering going on and he suspected it was due to the fact that Harry was back from the Ministry. Albus continued thinking about his nightmare during breakfast and was very muted. John and Amanda did not notice this because they were in the middle of arguing about whether the Potions essay had to be a foot of parchment or just six inches. Albus suspected Amanda was right and the essay had to be a pes. pink wine, however, kept looking at Albus while she ate her food.

`` Is something wrong ? '' she asked him.

Albus glanced around to check if anyone was paying attention to them, luckily, no one was. `` Yeah, I had another eldritch pipe dream last Nox. This one was different. ``

`` Really ? '' Rose stared at him with all-embracing optic. `` What was it about ? ``

`` Ca n't say you here. I 'll secernate you at lunch. I 've got to state James, too. The common room should be empty when everyone 's at lunch, '' Albus whispered.

morn form seemed to get behind on forever. Albus kept looking at the clock throughout both DADA and charm, waiting for lunch. He really wanted Rose 's opinion of the dream and could n't look to tell her about the Hallows aspect of it. Harry started DADA by telling the year that everything was straightened out with the Ministry and they had zip to worry about. Albus suspected he was going to tell every class that. Charms was just as horrible as common, and it ended with Washburn rescheduling the detention that Albus could n't attend earlier due to Occlumency. He would be doing air at high noon on Sat.

Once charm was over, Albus and Rose went to bump James II. rose had told John and Amanda that the Potions essay did let to be a foot, so Gospel According to John was spending his dejeuner in the library trying to get along up with another one-half foot of essay. Amanda had gone along to assist him. Albus and Rose found James in the Great Hall and after the three of them ate a rushed luncheon, they headed up to the vulgar way. It was, as suspected, deserted.

`` Ok, so what 's so of import that I had to practically skip tiffin for ? '' James asked once they were in the room.

`` I had another funny dream last night, '' Albus told him, `` This one was dissimilar. '' Albus explained the dream in detail, including the piece about the Hallows.

James and Rose stared at Albus for a few mo before Rose spoke, `` Well, this is is kind of good. Now we know that the Hallows are objects. I was almost thinking that they were a series of go or something. ``

`` But we still do n't hump what they are, '' James sighed.

`` Or why I should eff where they are, '' Albus stated, `` This would be a unit lot easier if Dad would just tell us. ``

`` But he wo n't, '' William James replied angrily.

`` And I hate to say it, but I do n't think we 're going to recover any answers in the library. We 've looked in practically all the Bible that have to do with the war and I 've looked through all the prophet from that twelvemonth, too, '' Rose told them.

The three of them stood in secretiveness for a few minutes, trying to think of some solvent. James had started pacing. Albus sat down in a death chair and tried to cogitate of some other way they could discover out what the Hallows were.

`` Well, let 's go over the hint again, '' Rose announced, `` The Hallows are something secretive, and our parents wo n't tell apart us what they are because they do n't want us to secern anyone. None of our aunty or uncles or first cousin know about them either. So, maybe it 's just our parents who know about them ? If that 's true, then no wonder we could n't get the answer in a book. None of our parents have ever written a book. ``

`` Yeah, '' James agreed, `` It 's got to be something just our parents know about. ``

`` fountainhead, they were the ones who destroyed most of the Horcruxes. Maybe it 's got something to do with that ? '' Albus suggested.

`` That could be, '' James agreed, `` If only there was individual else we could ask about it. ``

The room fell silent again, as they sank into their thoughts again. Suddenly rosebush jumped up from her president. `` I 've got it ! ``

`` What ? '' James IV and Albus asked at the Sami time.

`` Who we can ask about the Hallows ! I ca n't think I did n't guess of it before ! ``

`` wellspring, who is it ? '' Albus asked.

`` Dumbledore ! ``

`` What ? ! '' James shouted, `` But he 's abruptly ! ``

`` I know that, '' Rose said, `` But there 's a portrait of him in Kendrick 's office ! ``

`` Oh, yeah. ``

`` Anyway, '' blush wine began, `` Dumbledore 's the one who told Uncle Harry about the Horcruxes, so he might know something about the Hallows, too ! ``

`` That 's mavin, Rose ! '' Albus grinned at her.

`` Thanks. We just have to forecast out how to get into Kendrick 's office. ``

`` That could be knavish, '' Albus said, `` Either of you know where his bureau is ? ``

rose and St. James shook their heads. `` Neither do I, '' Albus sighed.

A mischievous grin spread across blush wine 's brass, `` But I know how we can get in. ``

The boys looked at her skeptically. `` How ? '' James I asked.

`` well, if you get in plenty bother, you get taken to Kendrick 's office. ``

`` But what if we get expelled ? '' Albus asked warily.

`` Do n't care, you wo n't. ``

`` You 've got a program, then ? '' James inquired.

`` form of, '' rose wine told them, `` I 've got a obscure idea. It 'll be me and Albus who are doing it. I 'm going to cause some kind of havoc in Washubrn 's class- ''

`` Washburn ? ! Are you loony ? '' Albus shouted.

`` Just let me explicate. Washburn does n't hate me nearly as much as he hates you. So he 's going to assume the chaos was caused by you since we sit at the Saame table. He 'll set out screech, which will probably cause another teacher to add up running play. Washburn will state that instructor what you supposedly did and you 'll get taken to Kendrick 's federal agency. You 'll speak to Dumbledore 's portrayal about the Hallows. Simple as that. ``

Saint James the Apostle and Albus looked at her with shocked saying on their faces. `` But I 'll get in huge trouble, '' Albus said flatly.

`` No, you wo n't, '' Rose assured him, `` I might, but you wo n't. After Washburn dismisses the class, I 'll run to Uncle Harry and tell him it was really me who caused the distraction. ``

`` But I do n't want you to get in trouble, either, '' Albus told her.

`` It 's ok. I have hardly been in problem at all this yr. Anyway, all we need is the distraction. ``

`` I 've got it, '' Henry James announced, `` One of Uncle George I 's pyrotechnic. I 've got a unit provision up in my dormitory. ``

`` Excellent ! '' rose wine said excitedly, `` And I 'll just secern Uncle Harry that it went off accidentally. I 'll probably just end up with lines or something for having a banned object in my ownership. ``

`` Perfect, '' Albus smiled, finally satisfied that no one would get in huge trouble.

`` I think we ought to look a few workweek to do it, since you just got a custody from Washburn, Albus, '' Rose told them.

`` Ok, just let us have it away when you think we ought to do it, '' Jesse James responded.

`` I will, '' rose assured him, `` We 'd better be off to class. See you later. ``

`` Bye, '' Albus said to James as he followed Rose to Potions. He was excited and anxious at the same time at the scene of talking with Dumbledore about the Hallows. Would he finally learn what was being kept from him ? Only time would tell.

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A/N : I 've done it again ! I merged 2 chapters, due to the curtness of each. This resulted in the retentive chapter yet. Hope you enjoyed it !

Thanks as always to my genus Beta and sister, Dancer of Starlight. She has been especially helpful in coming up with quality for Albus 's third year. Thanks as well to my brother and other sister, and to inkheart for the recapitulation !

Disclaimer- As usual, I do not own Harry Potter

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The rest of the workweek flew by in a fuss of division and preparation. Albus and his friends found that they had no time to do anything other than homework during their spare time. They had not even found metre to jaw Matt, but they did n't even have it off if he was waken yet. Rose was already freaking out over the end of term exams, which were still over four calendar month away, and was using every waking second to study. Albus was not yet worried about exam and was more concern about just completing all the assigned homework.

Quinton Willinson had not bothered Albus or any of his acquaintance since Albus had left the infirmary Wing. Albus was not sure enough whether this was due to Willinson 's upcoming N.E.W.T. examination, the large amount of detentions he received, or veneration of what Harry would do if he continued tormenting Albus. Albus did not manage which one it was, he was just sword lily Willinson had given up for the time being. However, the same could not be said about Scorpius Malfoy. Malfoy continued to pester Albus, rosiness, John, and Amanda about what was wrong with mat whenever they were in grade together. Albus found this more annoying than anything else, because Malfoy rarely ever brought out his wand during these face-off. Malfoy kind of remind Albus of his Great Aunt petunia because she was also very nosy. Malfoy stood no luck of ever finding out about Matt from Albus or the others, but Albus did worry about what would happen if Malfoy found out on his own.

Albus slept late on Saturday morning and woke up with just enough clip to catch a bite to eat in the Great Hall before rushing off to his detention with Washburn. As much as Albus hated these detention, he had become kind of immune to them. Albus had been upset about the first few, but lately he had started to take them in stride. As long as it was just lines, Albus did n't worry about them too much.

When Albus arrived in the Charms classroom at noontide, professor Washburn was sitting at his desk with the usual frown on his face. `` Sit down, Potter, '' he barked.

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus responded quietly while taking a bum at the front table.

`` Get out your parchment and ink. Write'I will not misbehave in Charms'until I tell you to lay off. ``

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus repeated as he took out a roll of lambskin and a flight feather. He started to write. Washburn never told Albus how many meter he would have to spell the line. He supposed Washburn liked to keep Albus there until he looked sufficiently tired and uncomfortable. Washburn had no way of knowing how many line of business that would take. However, he never kept Albus in detention for less than an hour. Albus kept repeating the melodic phrase on his parchment while trying hard not to look at the clock. He found that looking at the clock just made the time go by tiresome. Eventually, Albus stole a glance at the clock and found that it had only been 45 instant. He sighed.

`` You say something ? '' Washburn growled.

`` No, sir, '' Albus said without looking up from his paper. He wrote a few more than line of products and was startled when he heard step come into the way. He glanced up to see that a tall man he did n't recognize walking towards Washburn. The man was wearing a melanize cloak and had short brown hair. It reminded Albus of the kind of haircut Muggles in the army had. Washburn got up from his seat when the man approached.

Washburn turned to Albus, `` Do n't go anywhere. If you do, I 'll have you in detention for the rest of terminus. ``

Albus nodded, but did n't say a news. The strange man followed Washburn into his office and shut out the threshold behind them. There was silence for a second and then Albus was able to hear recruit articulation coming from the position. They had forgotten to cast Muffliato before they started talking. It sounded like they were arguing about something, but Albus could n't make out what it was. He wished they 'd fence a bit louder. Albus put down his quill and strained to listen what they were saying. The two men stayed in the authority for about fifteen minutes before Washburn stormed out of it, looking quite angry, followed by the other man who seemed rather calm. Albus quickly picked up his flight feather and continued his lines.

Washburn returned to his desk while the foreign man walked over to the room access. He turned around to look at Washburn and said icily, `` Remember, this is your job, no one else 's. And I expect you to complete it soon. '' Then the man left, shutting the threshold behind him.

Washburn stared at the binding of the door for a few moment, before turning and glaring at Albus. `` You 're done. Get back to your common room, '' he seethed.

Albus did not waver. He got up quickly and ran out of the room. Today 's detention had been much inadequate than others. Albus suspected that this was due to whatever Washburn and the early wizard were talking about. Washburn was definitely up to something. Apparently he had a job to do. But what could it be ? Albus could n't avail but question if the Charms professor was involved with something wickedness. He ran all the way to the common room to tell his friends what he had overheard.

When Albus rushed through the portrait hole, he immediately spotted his friends at one of the mesa. He grabbed a professorship and sat down next to Rose.

`` That was short, '' Rose commented.

`` I know, I lucked out today, '' Albus responded, `` But I 've got to enjoin you about Washburn. ``

`` What about him ? '' John asked, looking up from his book.

`` In the middle of my detention, some strange whizz came barging into the room, '' Albus told them.

`` Who was he ? '' Rose asked.

`` I dunno, that 's the affair. I 'd never seen him before. ``

`` What did he look like ? '' Amanda asked. Albus described the man, but none of his admirer recognized the description either.

`` Maybe he was a parent of one of the bookman, '' rosiness suggested.

`` Who knows ? '' Albus said, `` But he got into a huge line with Washburn. ``

`` Well, that 's not difficult, '' lavatory laughed, `` Anything will set him off. ``

`` What did they argue about ? '' Rose asked.

`` I 'm not sure. They were in Washburn 's spot. I could n't make out what they were saying, but they were definitely rowing about something. And then, right before the guy left, he said 'remember, this is your job to do and I want it done soon'to Washburn. Or something like that. ``

Rose, lavatory, and Amanda stared at Albus for a moment before Rose replied, `` That 's so strange. So Washburn 's doing something for this thaumaturgist ? ``

`` Yeah, I think so. He 's definitely up to something. And I do n't think it 's anything good, '' Albus informed them.

`` You think they 're doing something evil ? '' John asked skeptically.

`` Maybe, but I do n't really know. ``

`` I dunno, '' St. John the Apostle said warily, `` I mean, Washburn 's horrible to you and Saint James the Apostle, and all the Gryffindors, really. But I do n't have a go at it if he 's really into the iniquity fine art or anything. ``

`` Yeah, '' blush wine agreed, `` That 'job'could be anything. It does n't have to be something bad. ``

`` But Washburn seemed so mad about it. Just seems weird to me. ``

`` It 's definitely fishy, but I do n't think we should jump to conclusions, '' pink wine replied, `` I mean, look at Snape. Uncle Harry thought he was wickedness, but he was n't. ``

`` I suppose, '' Albus sighed.

`` Anyone want to go see if we can gossip Matt ? '' John asked a few minutes later.

`` good estimation, '' Albus agreed, `` I hope Madam Pomfrey lets us. ``

`` I hope he 's awake, '' Rose closed her Book and put them away in her bag.

`` We can at to the lowest degree try to win over Madam Pomfrey to let us visit him on his birthday if she does n't let us today, '' John the Evangelist reasoned.

The four Quaker packed up their books and put them away in their dormitories. A few minutes later, they found themselves walking to the Hospital flank. They walked in silence the whole way there, each one knowing what the other was thinking about. All four of them were hoping Matt was wake and worrying about him. Albus had been worrying ever since the morning he found out lusterlessness was a werewolf. But at the same clock time, Albus felt a bit raging that Matt would n't hope him with his secret. Albus 's rational number side knew why Matt was n't very swear, but could n't help wishing that Matt would commit in him. Albus supposed that constituent of this was due to his dad not trusting him with knowing what the 'Hallows'were. He wished more people would trust him.

When they reached the hospital offstage, they noticed that the doors were still shut, and when John tried to open them, they found out that they were still locked as well.

`` This is n't a good sign, '' can sighed.

Rose banged on the doors and shouted, `` Madam Pomfrey ! ``

A bit later, ma'am Pomfrey opened the door a crack and stuck her head word out. `` What do you need ? ``

`` Is flatness awake ? '' Rose whispered.

`` Yes, he woke up last-place night. ''

`` Well, can we see him ? '' Rose asked hopefully.

`` No, I 'm good-for-nothing, but he really ca n't cause visitors right now, '' Madam Pomfrey sighed.

`` Is he all right ? '' whoremonger interrupted.

`` He 'll be mulct in a couple of calendar week or so. ``

`` Can we come visit him on his birthday ? It 's side by side Wednesday. Please ? '' Albus pleaded.

Madam Pomfrey 's look softened, `` I think that would be all right wing. Not before Wed, though. I 'll see you then. ``

`` Great ! Thanks, ma'am Pomfrey, '' Albus smiled as she closed the door to the ward.

`` I 'm gladiolus he 's awake now, '' Rose said as they walked back to the unwashed way, `` And we get to see him on his birthday. ``

`` Yeah, and we did n't even need Amy to convince her ! '' John grinned.

`` Ca n't wait until Wednesday, '' Albus said.

`` Definitely, '' Amanda agreed.

`` Boo ! '' a phonation said from behind them. Amanda shrieked and they all turned around. Bradley and brand were laughing.

`` Gotcha ! '' Omar Nelson Bradley shouted.

`` We got your stuff from Hogsmeade, '' home run told them. He handed them two udder filled with butterbeer and sweets.

`` Awesome, '' Albus took the bags.

`` And here 's the Chudley Cannons jersey. Although, what he sees in them ... '' Tom Bradley shook his head as he handed bathroom the jersey.

`` Thanks, guy rope, '' Albus said to his cousins.

`` No problem, '' Thomas Bradley said, `` I remember the days of not being able to go to Hogsmeade. We always got Henry M. Stanley and Heather to get our clobber for us. Glad those daylight are over now. ``

`` I ca n't hold off to go to Hogsmeade, '' toilet announced, `` Think of all the pranking clobber we 'll be able-bodied to buy. There 's only so much you can fit in your trunk and bring from home. ``

`` Endless possibilities, mate, '' grade told John, `` Well, we 'd better be off. We 've put off the prep long enough. Play first, workplace later. That 's our motto. ''

`` Bad motto, if you ask me, '' Rose whispered as her cousins took off for the mutual room.

`` They 'll outlast, '' Albus assured her, `` Have n't failed a class yet, have they ? ``

`` No, they have n't, '' rose agreed, `` We 'd better go, too. ''

`` Yeah, I 've still got to publish that solid essay for Potions, '' Amanda sighed.

Albus groaned, `` I 'd forgotten about that. Have n't even started. ``

Albus, blush wine, can, and Amanda continued walking to the commons room. Once they were there, they spent the remainder of the afternoon writing essays about the properties of moonstone.

******

During the future few twenty-four hour period, Albus and his acquaintance debated about whether they should ask matte how he wound up in the hospital flank when they went to see him on his birthday. Albus thought they should annul the topic altogether, still believing that Matt would narrate them when he was quick. However, rose thought it would appear suspicious if they did n't ask what happened, because if your protagonist gets injured, you would desire to know what happened. As it stood right now, the only mass in the castling who knew what really happened were the teachers, Amy, Albus, Rose, whoremonger, and Amanda. Of course, no one knew that Albus and his acquaintance knew what happened. Despite this, many citizenry asked them what happened. Albus just told them he had no estimate and after a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr., they gave up asking. Albus had heard quite a few preposterous rumors about it. He overheard a few second year Hufflepuffs telling a couple Ravenclaws that matte had been attacked by a thestral. This same story had been repeated throughout the castle, only with a different creature being substituted each meter, including a Hippogriff and a centaur. The centaur narrative was especially ludicrous and Albus was sure the Centaurus would not be happy if that account reached their ears.

In the end, Albus and his friends decided that they would ask Matt what happened, but they would not live on the subject. Albus was sure that Matt, or maybe even Amy, had come up with some form of narration to cover up what happened. Despite this, Amy was not telling anyone the chronicle. She just ignored anyone who brought it up. Her friends, including Victoire, stayed skinny by her at all times and would n't let anyone agitate the matter. Albus suspected that Victoire had already been fed the fake level, but he did n't ask her about it.

After dinner on Feb sixth, Albus, rose wine, John, and Amanda found themselves walking to the Hospital backstage armed with party provision and a envelop present.

Rose was the first to attain the door and when she went to knock, everyone was surprised to find that the door pushed give. `` It 's unlatched ! '' rose gasped.

`` That must imply Matt 's doing better ! '' Albus said excitedly.

`` Let 's go, then ! '' Gospel According to John pushed retiring Albus and pink wine and walked into the elbow room. Amanda followed him and then Albus and Rose walked in. Albus spotted Matt 's bed, but the curtain were pulled around it. He did n't see dame Pomfrey anywhere.

`` dame Pomfrey ! '' Rose shouted, `` Are you here ? ``

Madam Pomfrey peeked her head out from behind the curtain and smiled at them. `` come up ! You can visit as soon as I 'm done giving him his evening potions. ''
`` Ok, thanks, Madam Pomfrey, '' rosebush responded.

A few minutes later, the nanny came back out and walked over to where Albus and his admirer were standing. `` What do you have in those base ? '' she eyed their package suspiciously.

`` Oh, just some Honeydukes stuff, Butterbeer, and a present, '' Albus told her.

`` But none of it 's Weasley products, is it ? ''

`` No. ``

ma'am Pomfrey relaxed, `` Ok, good. The terminal affair I need is to have this place destroyed while you have your political party ! You can go see him now. ``

Albus ran to the bed, followed by his friends, and pulled back the curtain. Amy was sitting in a chairman next to the bed and whispering to Matt. She stopped abruptly when the mantle opened.

`` Hey, lustrelessness ! '' Albus grinned and sat down at the end of the bed. `` How are you ? ``

`` I 'm all right, '' flatness replied hoarsely, `` But I 've been better. ``

`` Glad to see you 're awaken, mate, '' john sat down following to Albus and set the bag of company stuff on the floor.

rose wine and Amanda smiled and sat in professorship that Amy had conjured after they came in. Rose pulled the curtains closed and handed mat his present. `` Happy Birthday ! '' everyone shouted.

`` Thanks, guy rope ! '' mat grinned and tore open the wrapping. `` Wow ! A Chudley Canons NJ ! This is splendid ! ``

`` I 'm glad you like it, '' Albus said, `` My cousin-german picked it up in Hogsmeade for us. They also got us butterbeers and sweets. ``

`` Excellent ! '' mat replied excitedly.

St. John picked up the bag and passed out butterbeer and jelly slugs. `` So, '' he began once everyone started eating, `` What exactly happened to you ? We 've heard the craziest rumors. You did n't really get attacked by a herd of thestrals, did you ? ``

Matt started choking on his butterbeer and Amy slapped him on the back. He gave her a worried looking and then looked back at lavatory. `` Really ? '' he sputtered.

It was a bit knockout to believe that Matt had been attacked by thestrals, when Hagrid had the school thestrals very well cultivate. But on the other hand, lustrelessness did look like he 'd been attacked by a tumid animate being. He had partially healed cuts, bites, and scratches all over all his body. His arms and legs were covered in bandages and just about all of his torso was bruised. Albus could see how someone would suspect he was attacked by a thestral.

`` wellspring, that 's what the Hufflepuffs are saying, '' John told him.

`` The Ravenclaws think it was a Hippogriff, '' Amanda chimed in.

Matt sighed and glanced at Amy, who gave him a look. `` It was n't either, '' matt began, `` I got a bit too close to the Whomping Willow. ``

`` What ? ! '' John exclaimed, `` Really ?

`` Er, yeah, '' lusterlessness said.

Albus was debating about whether to ask lustrelessness to elaborate or not when he continued.

`` I spent the Night here when Albus took me that one night. Then I left in the morning and went for a walk on the yard. I was n't paying attention to where I was going and the tree gave me quite a lacing. ``

`` Wow, '' Albus responded, `` I 'm glad you 're ok. ''

`` Yeah, '' bathroom said, `` But when do you get to leave here ? ``

`` I 'm not really sure enough, '' matt told them, `` Not for at to the lowest degree another week. dame Pomfrey wants the cuts healed and the bruises faded before I leave. And I ca n't really take the air that well. ``

`` A whole week ? '' rose exclaimed.

`` At least, '' flatness responded, `` I hope it 's not more. I 'm getting so bored. What 's been going on in the residuum of the castling ? ``

`` well, did you see that article Rita Skeeter wrote last week ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, I read it yesterday. But Amy told me there was n't anything to worry about. ``

`` She 's powerful. But the whole palace 's talking about it. Dad thinks it 'll blow over when the next Quidditch match arrives. ``

`` He 's probably good, '' rose wine agreed.

`` I hope I get to leave here before the next catch. I do n't desire to pretermit it, '' Matt said.

`` I hope so too, '' John took a sip of butterbeer, `` Nothing defective than missing Quidditch. ``

`` I can think of no less than ten things, '' blush wine muttered.

`` I think we might have a chance of winning the cup, '' Albus said excitedly.

`` That would be so assuredness ! '' Amanda shouted, `` I love Quidditch. I was never into Muggle summercater, but Quidditch is awesome. ``

`` Definitely, '' St. John agreed, `` I never saw the stage of Muggle sports, but I guess if you ca n't roleplay Quidditch ... ''

They spent the side by side hour talking about Quidditch and everything else that was going on in the castle. Albus told matte about how Xavier Goyle had melted his caldron in potions the other day. The potion had spread across the floor and burned through Scorpio Malfoy and his supporter, Jackson Limbert 's, shoes. The Gryffindors had thought this was very funny, especially when they found out that the potion had turned both boy feet pink. early than that, cypher too shake up had happened in class during lustrelessness 's absence. Washburn had continued being horrible to Albus and the other Gryffindors. In Transfiguration, they had started transfiguring Muggle pencils into shaft. Rose, John, and a couplet of the Ravenclaws were the only one who had managed to do it.

After they had exhausted the topic of lesson, the conversation turned back to Quidditch. pro Quidditch this time. No one seemed to think the Chudley canyon had any hope of ever making it to the Cup. Even matte seemed to agree. No one had any idea who would be playing in the Cup this year, but it did n't matter much because it had already been decided that the Cup would take place in Russia and none of them would get to go anyway.

Amy spent the entire sojourn sitting future to Matt, so Albus was ineffectual to share the contents of his new dreaming or what had happened in detention the premature Saturday. Albus found out that Amy spent about of her unembellished time visiting Matt. He had never seen such a devoted sister before. Albus had thought his older cousins were protective, but they were nothing compared to Amy.

Eventually, Madam Pomfrey came back to narrate them that they had stayed long enough and it was time for them to leave.

`` Well, I hope you can bequeath soon, '' Albus said as he stood up.

`` 'Night, Matt, '' John cleaned up the leftover intellectual nourishment and put it back in the bag.

`` See you soon, '' Rose told him.

`` Bye, '' Amanda stood up and followed everyone out from behind the curtains.

`` Bye, guys, '' mat yawned as they left.

`` He does n't look goodness, '' Albus whispered once they had left the room.

`` No, he does n't, '' rose wine agreed, `` But at least he 's awake. ``

`` Good point, but I can see why gentlewoman Pomfrey wo n't let him leave yet. Everyone would bombard him with interrogative sentence about what happened, '' John pointed out.

`` I do n't think he knows you were in the hospital offstage that night, Albus, '' Amanda said, `` He says he spent the night in the Hospital extension, but you know he did n't. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` And they brought him back there so early, there would n't have been any time for him to rove the cause. ``

`` Do n't repoint it out, though, '' Rose warned him.

`` I wo n't, '' Albus assured her, `` We agreed that we would n't say anything about what happened now that we 've heard the narration. ``

`` He 'll sustain to severalise us eventually, '' John reasoned.

`` I know. I hope it 's soon, '' Albus said.

`` I bet it will be soon, '' Rose told them, `` How many stories can he do up with about what happens every full-of-the-moon moon ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said, `` I just hope it 's not worse next month. ``

No one said anything else the rest of the way to the common room. Albus knew that everyone else was thinking what he was thinking. That it was very much a possibility that next month would be worse.

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A/N : Thanks to my sis and beta, Dancer of Starlight, and thanks to my other sister and my brother. Thanks to inkheart for the review.

You may sustain noticed that I lost practically all my reviews for this story during the internet site crash. I had around 40 and lost all but 8. So please read and reappraisal !

I thought I 'd part that I 've finished the sequel to this ! Albus thrower and the runway They Left Behind, which is about Albus 's 2nd twelvemonth, will be posted as soon as I 've posted all of this one.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramist

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As February progressed, the castle grounds were blanketed in even more snowfall. The students found themselves going outdoor for Abronia elliptica competitiveness during much of their free prison term. These plot started out as informal fun, but soon chemical group of people formed large teams that eventually led to each house having their own squad. On occasion, half the school would be extraneous participating. The game usually resulted in a few pupil going to the infirmary wing. The pupil also tracked quite a bit of Baron Snow of Leicester and mud into the castle and Filch was not happy about it. He spent his time lurking near the movement room access, waiting to call at anyone who came inside with muddy shoes. Albus and his friends participated in a few Abronia elliptica fighting, but soon found that the Old students were able to captivate snowball and it was surd for them to go on up. It was fun nonetheless, and even blush wine took breaks from studying to join in.

They also made sure to visit Matt every night. They told him the latest news of the rook and helped him with his prep. No one mentioned his harm beyond a simple-minded 'how are you ?'and Albus could tell that Matt wanted to nullify the subject. Eventually, after a full three weeks in the hospital wing, Madam Pomfrey finally let him impart. His bruises had faded, excision had healed, and was looking almost normal. By now, the entire castle had heard the Whomping willow story, and Albus hoped that no one would ask any interrogation about it.

`` I am so glad to be out of there, '' lustrelessness said as he set his Scripture down on a mesa in the common way the nighttime he left the hospital wing.

`` I 'm glad you are, too, '' Albus sat down and took out his transfiguration book.

`` We all are, '' rosebush grinned, but did n't sit down. She walked over to Albus and whispered in his ear, `` I 've got to talk to you, alone. Saint James, too. We 'll go up to your dormitory. Bilius and Ethan are down here, so it 'll be empty-bellied. ``

`` We 'll be right back, '' Albus told Matt, St. John, and Amanda as he got up. He went up to his dormitory and sat on the bed, waiting for his sidekick and cousin.

A few minutes later, Rose came into the way followed by a bewildered looking James IV. `` What is it ? '' James asked.

`` I think it 's fourth dimension for our plan, you know, about getting Albus to babble to Dumbledore, '' Rose told them.

`` Now ? '' Albus asked in a shocked tone. The more he had thought about that plan, the more flighty he became. It could go amiss in so many ways.

`` Yes, I think so, '' Rose replied adamantly, `` I 've given up the library research. ``

`` Really ? ! '' James laughed, `` I 'd better predict the Prophet ! ``

`` Shut it, James II, '' Rose said. `` Tomorrow, during magic spell, I 'll set off the pyrotechnic and you 'll get sent to Kendrick 's position. And then maybe we 'll finally get some answers. ``

`` All right, '' Albus sighed. His rarity trumped his desire to not cause anymore trouble in Washburn 's class.

`` We 'll let you know how it goes, James, '' Rose told her cousin.

James grinned, `` Somehow, I think I 'm going to learn about it before I see you. This is brilliant, setting off fireworks in Washburn 's social class .... ''

`` I 'm not talking about that ! '' pink wine sighed, `` I 'm talking about the stuff with Dumbledore. ``

`` I know, but still. Blimey, I wish I 'd be there to see the tone on Washburn 's face .... ''

`` No, you do n't, '' Albus replied, `` He 's going to be bloodless. ``

`` Yeah, but that 's what we 're hoping for, '' Rose said, `` It 's the only way to get into Kendrick 's office. ``

`` I know, I just care there was a secure way, '' Albus sighed.

`` Me, too, '' Rose said softly.

******

Albus hardly slept at all that night. He tossed and turned while worrying about the succeeding day 's appealingness class. He finally gave up sleeping around six in the morning and got up. Once John and lusterlessness were up, the three of them headed down to breakfast.

Albus sat next to Rose, who was already there, and served himself some toast. However, Albus was too nervous to eat it. He just kept glancing up at the staff table, where Washburn was doing his usual morning glare at the students.

`` Are you ok, Albus ? '' flatness asked, `` You do n't look too soundly. ``

`` I 'm just tired, I guess, '' Albus said quietly while glancing at Rose. She gave him a charitable feel, but did n't say anything. Amanda, John, and lusterlessness had no estimate what would be happening in Charms, of course of action, so they just thought Albus was sick.

`` Maybe you should go to the Hospital offstage, '' matte suggested while stuffing eggs in his mouth.

`` No, I 'll be okay, '' Albus assured him.

Albus could n't pay attention during DADA. Harry lectured during the whole class, but Albus spent the wholly time worrying about Charms. The stratum seemed to go by twice as fast as normal and before Albus knew it, it was over.

Albus walked to Charms with Rose, who told him that everything was set. The Weasley firework were in her bag, and ready to be set off. She did n't tell him when it would be happening, but Albus assumed it would be during the pragmatic region of the class.

Washburn stormed into the room in his common flare-up of madness. He went to his desk and took attendance. When he got to Matt 's name, a strange grin appeared on his face.

`` Nice of you to finally connect us in class, Eckerton, '' he sneered, `` What 's it been ? Three calendar week ? I certainly hope you 've been studying magic spell while you skipped class. ``

Albus glanced over at lustrelessness, who was turning red and slouching down in his seat.

Washburn continued the attendance and when he was done, he started lecturing. Albus 's heart and soul was pounding loudly now and he could n't make out a word Washburn said. All he noticed was that Washburn was calling on Matt to reply every single inquiry he asked. lusterlessness had no idea what any of the answers were and was looking more scurvy each minute. Eventually, Washburn announced that they would be charming newspaper hiss to fly. He said that this charm was much like levitation, and if one was capable of levitating a paper bird, they 'd be capable of making one fly.

Albus groaned as he pulled out his wand. Levitation never ended well in this class, and he knew for a fact it would n't end well today. He glanced down at pink wine 's bag, which was sitting in between them on the story. Once Washburn settled down to grade preparation at his desk, Albus noticed Rose turn her wand from her theme birdie and towards her bag, which had been emptied of everything except the pyrotechnic earlier. She gave Albus a nervous look and muttered an incantation.

A tawdry explosion erupted from the bag and a large hippogriff made of fire floated towards the ceiling. Everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at it. A few people screamed. Albus put on a mortified face while blush wine tried her best to wait surprised.

`` thrower ! '' Washburn ran out from behind his desk and was in presence of Albus within five seconds. Albus had never heard him scream so loud. `` What on dry land are you doing ? ! must you always disrupt my stratum like this ? ! Never have I seen such a blatant to-do ! '' He was shouting so loud now that Albus was sure everyone in the castling had heard him.

`` I 'll feature you expelled from this castle ! '' Washburn continued, `` I 'll make sure you- ''

`` What is going on in here ? '' Professor Patil came charging into the way and interrupted Washburn 's tirade. She saw the firework and pointed her wand at it. It disappeared immediately.

`` ceramicist has disrupted my stratum yet again ! He set off a firework while I was trying to teach ! '' Washburn informed her, `` And I will crap surely there is some penalty ! He has gotten away with far too practically. ``

`` Well, I think this is a subject that is better taken up with the Headmaster, '' prof Patil replied, `` come along, potter. ``

Albus nodded and got up from the table. So far, so dependable. The architectural plan was going as well as it could be. He was going to take a shit it to the master 's position. He followed Patil out into the hallway. Washburn glared at him as he left, his sassing opening and closing, but no wrangle were coming out.

Professor Patil did not say a word the hale way to the schoolmaster 's function. She led him up a few flying of stair and stopped in front man of a stone gargoyle.

`` I 'm in the middle of teaching a course, so I 'll will you here to see the schoolmaster, '' she informed him. `` Rubber duck's egg, '' she said to the gargoyle.

The gargoyle opened to reveal a circular stairway. Albus stepped inside and climbed up. His nub was pounding as he stepped off the death stair and came into a circular way. It was adorned with the portraits of past tense headmasters. There were all variety of silver instruments on every surface, along with bookcases overflowing with books. In the back was a desk with a comfy looking chairperson behind it. Behind the chair was professor Dumbledore 's portrait. Albus glanced around and noticed that he was alone in the room. Luckily, prof Kendrick was not there. Albus breathed a sigh of rilievo. That was the one affair that could have gone damage with the architectural plan. If Kendrick was there, then Albus would not have a chance to talk to Dumbledore.

Albus ran to Dumbledore 's portrait, eager to get this over with, as Kendrick could return any arcminute. As he approached Dumbledore, he passed the only other portrait that was currently awake. It was a portrait of a greasy haired, hooked nozzle man. `` Getting into hassle, potter ? Just like your Church Father, '' the man said. It was Professor Snape.

Albus chose to ignore him as he reached Dumbledore. `` Um, excuse me, Sir, '' he started.

`` Hello, Albus, '' Dumbledore smiled, `` I wondered when I 'd be seeing you. But I must ask, what kind of fuss did you cause to be sent here ? ``

`` I, um, er, well, it was n't me, exactly. It was rosebush. But we assumed, hoped rather, that I 'd get blamed for it, '' Albus stammered.

`` Ah, you 've been wanting to talk to me ? '' Dumbledore asked.

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus replied.

`` I will be glad to assist you, but first I really must know what you and spring up did, '' Dumbledore insisted, `` I am rather curious. ``

`` Well, blush wine set off a Weasley firework in Professor Washburn 's class, '' Albus confessed.

`` Interesting. I seem to remember her female parent doing the same in my family once, although I never could shew it, '' Snape commented.

`` That 's certainly a originative way of getting to talk to me, '' Dumbledore replied, `` But I must secernate you that a better way would be to send word with another portraiture and I 'd be able-bodied to fulfil you in the vulgar room. ``

Albus slapped his head, `` I ca n't believe I did n't believe of that ! Too late now. Anyway, what I want to talk about is private. ``

`` Oh, I understand. Ask away. ``

`` Um, well, over Christmas, pink wine, Saint James the Apostle, and I, and a few other of our cousins overheard our parents talking, '' Albus paused, waiting for the reprehension for listening in on a conversation.

`` Perfectly understandable. I do believe that if adults do n't desire kid hearing their conversations, they ought to use the right magic spell against eavesdropping. ``

Albus grinned, `` That 's what I thought, but nan was pretty mad. She took away all of James 's extendable Ears. ``

`` What a shame. I always thought those were clever. I wish they had been invented when I was your age. ``

`` Anyway, we overheard that they are keeping something from us. A cloak-and-dagger, I guess. We always thought they told us everything about Voldemort, the horcruxes, and the battle at Hogwarts. But now we 're not so sure. They were talking about figuring out when to tell us something. Something they do n't need us to spread around, '' Albus informed him.

`` I see, '' Dumbledore replied with a thoughtful look on his case, `` Go on. ``

`` Well, professor, we think we sort of know what it is. Well, I heard them say one word and the same word was mentioned in these weird dreams I 've been having. I 've been having dreaming due to soul doing Legilimency on me. I 'm learning Occlumency, though. ``

`` That 's good, '' Dumbledore said, `` I hope it 's going well. ``

`` Mine is, but James is n't doing so well with his. ``

`` Who 's teaching you ? '' Snape interrupted, `` It 's not your father, is it ? '' Snape laughed at the very thought.

`` No, '' Albus replied coldly, `` But he could if he wanted to. ``

`` No, he could n't, '' Snape replied, `` I tried to learn him, and he is incapable of the undertaking. ``

`` He 's doing better now, '' Albus said defensively.

`` Who is teaching you, then ? '' Snape pressed.

`` My Aunt Hermione. ``

`` wellspring, as often of a know it all she was, she 's probably a competent teacher, '' Snape approved.

`` Thank you, Severus, '' Dumbledore said, `` Now, continue, Albus. ``

`` Um, right. Anyway, I guess I was wondering if you could order me anything about the Hallows, '' Albus held his breathing time, waiting for Dumbledore 's reaction.

Dumbledore sighed, `` I was afraid that 's what you were going to ask. What do you live about them ? ``

`` Not much. My parents have n't told me anything, but I 'm pretty trusted that 's what they 're keeping from us. resurrect, Saint James, and I have been researching in the library about them, but we have n't found anything. All I know is that they are target and I learned that from my aspiration. ``

`` Be careful not to trust everything those dreaming tell you, '' Snape warned, `` That was one of your father 's job. ``

`` Severus, '' Dumbledore said warningly and turned back to Albus. `` You will not regain any selective information about the Hallows in the history Word about Voldemort. And this is because there are few who know about their importance in the final engagement. Many of those who do, do not believe it. ``

`` So, they do cause to do with the battle ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, they do, '' Dumbledore confirmed.

`` Will you tell me what they are ? ''

Dumbledore sighed again, `` I am afraid that it is not my place to recount you. That responsibility remains with your Church Father. I will tell you that they played an important role in defeating Voldemort, but beyond that, you 'll have to wait until your father is make to state you. ``

Albus groaned, `` But why ? Why wo n't he distinguish me ? ``

`` grownup have a habit of keeping things from children because they think they are protecting them. This is not always the subject, as I have learned on many occasion. I made the like mistake numerous times, near of them involving Harry and the information about his past times. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus responded, `` Do you be intimate when he 'll tell me ? ``

`` No, although I do imagine it will be soon. Perhaps within the next few months, '' Dumbledore revealed.

`` Months ? ! '' Albus shouted, `` I ca n't look that long ! ``

`` longanimity is a mighty merit, Albus, '' Dumbledore said, `` I know it 's hard to wait that foresightful. Which is why I will devote you a fiddling suggestion. ``

`` A hint ? Like where we can regain out about the Hallows without asking my dad ? '' Albus asked hopefully.

`` Not exactly. But before I get to that, I sense there is something else troubling you. ``

Albus thought for a mo before responding. `` Well, I guess there is one matter ... '' he paused, wondering if he should severalise Dumbledore about Matt.

Dumbledore smiled, but did n't say anything.

Albus sighed. `` Ok, it 's my friend lustrelessness. He gets sick a lot, once a month to be exact. And I just found out he 's a lycanthrope. Not that that issue or anything. I still want to be friends with him, '' Albus said quickly.

`` Ah, yes, Matthew Eckerton, '' Dumbledore replied.

`` You know him ? ''

`` Yes, he voiced a few business to me before the school year started. He and his parents had a meeting with professor Kendrick. ``

`` That was quick, ceramicist. I must say that I am pleasantly surprised that you found out so quickly. Your don never was able-bodied to put the hint together to figure out that Lupin was a werewolf. Miss Granger told him, '' Snape interjected.

Albus averted his eyes from Snape and mumbled, `` Er, rose is the one who really found out. I just confirmed it when I was in the hospital extension the same time as matte. ``

`` Of course, '' Snape said flatly.

`` Severus, '' Dumbledore warned, `` Continue, Albus. ``

`` It 's just, lustrelessness has n't told us yet. He 's still trying to hide it from us. I just wish he 'd trust me. It just kind of feels like no one trusts me. Matt wo n't tell me he 's a werewolf and my dad wo n't tell me about the Hallows. Why wo n't anyone trust me ? '' Albus told Dumbledore.

`` I understand, '' Dumbledore responded, `` But I do cerebrate it 's more complicated than you not being trustworthy. You, I believe, are very trustworthy. As far as lustrelessness trusting you, I will tell you that he had a very fierce childhood. He 's been through repulsion you ca n't even ideate. I do conceive he trusts you, but I do n't think he tells many people about his lycanthropy. I know that he is very afraid about what will come about if mass find out- ''

`` But it does n't matter to me ! Or John or Rose or Amanda ! '' Albus interrupted.

`` I know. But past tense experiences have caused Matt to be reluctant to evidence anyone. Although I do think he will intrust in you eventually. ``

`` So you agree that I should n't tell apart him that I know ? '' Albus asked.

`` As long as he does n't know that you know, I think that would be a judicious choice. ``

`` No, I do n't cogitate he has any idea that I know, '' Albus said.

`` Good, '' Dumbledore continued, `` Now, I believe trust is a two-way street. You want Matt to confide in you, but can you think of anything that you are keeping from him, and John, and Amanda as well ? ``

Albus wracked his brain, `` Well, just the Hallows, but I do n't even know what they are. ``

`` The Hallows, that 's exactly what I suspected you were keeping orphic. But why ? ``

`` Um, I guess I 'm not indisputable. It just seems like something that I should keep to myself. Since my parents have n't even evidence anyone, '' Albus reasoned.

`` Ah, but you wish your parents would separate you about them ? ``

`` Yes, but- ''

`` It might be wise to recite your friends, Albus. Just because your parents have n't told anyone, does n't signify you have to keep it to yourself. ``

`` Really ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, and that is my hint to you. Tell your friend what you know about the Hallows. They just might be able to help you, '' Dumbledore told him.

`` You think they would bonk more than we could get from books ? '' Albus asked skeptically.

`` There 's only one way to find out, '' Dumbledore winked.

`` All right, if you 're surely, '' Albus responded.

`` good luck with that, potter, '' Snape smirked.

Albus heard a room access open behind him and he jumped. He had momentarily forgotten what he had done to get to Kendrick 's office. As he remembered the chaos in Washburn 's class, dread consumed him once more. What was going to happen ? Albus turned around and saw prof Kendrick standing in the doorway.

`` Sit down, Albus, '' Kendrick said as he walked towards his desk.

Albus sat down in the chair in straw man of the desk while Kendrick sat down in his chair.

`` Professor Patil told me what happened. Before we start discussing, I 'm going to ask Professor Washburn to fare in. Along with your dad. Hopefully we 'll be able-bodied to get to the stern of this, '' Kendrick got up from the desk and went over to the fireplace. He threw a handful of floo pulverization in and lunge his head into the emerald flames.

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A/N : Thanks to my baby and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my other sister and my brother. Thanks to Moonylupin for the review !
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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`` Now, do n't expect to create much more than than a wisp of silvery fog on your first try, '' Harry told his course of study of bore seventh years, `` Patronuses are hard for even the undecomposed wizard to invoke. ``

`` But my mum and dad said you managed it in your third yr, '' Christina Davies interrupted.

`` wellspring, yes, I did, '' Harry told his class, `` But I had wondrous instructor and the motivation I needed to manage it at such a Whitney Young age. Now, everyone think of a happy retentivity, just as we discussed- ''

`` apology me, Harry ? '' The flames in the classroom open fireplace turned a bright emerald green and the schoolmaster 's face appeared in it. The whole class turned to reckon towards the fireplace and were shocked to see prof Kendrick 's head.

`` Yes, Professor ? '' Harry answered in a discombobulate tone. Fireplaces had been installed in all the schoolroom during the rebuilding of Hogwarts after the engagement in order for the teachers to pass along faster in the effect of an emergency brake. Harry had never used his hearth before and was a bit distressed when he saw Kendrick in it.

`` Your son caused a disruption in magical spell just now- ''

`` What did James do this time ? '' Harry sighed.

`` No, not William James. It was Albus, '' Kendrick told Harry.

`` What ? ! '' Harry was baffled. He never imagined Albus would cause enough trouble to be sent to the schoolmaster 's office staff. Even James had avoided that so far.

`` Yes, it was Albus. He 's in my office right now and I 'd like to discuss it with you and prof Washburn, '' Kendrick said

`` All right. I 'll meet you in your office in a few minutes. ``

`` I 'll see you then, '' Kendrick 's head disappeared and the fire returned to their usual orange.

The seventh years all turned their heads back to Harry, with looking at of cushion on their faces.

`` What did Albus do ? '' Victoire asked, `` I ca n't opine him getting in worry. ``

`` I really do n't have sex what happened, Victoire, '' Harry answered.

`` Were his friends in on this, too ? '' Amy asked anxiously. Harry could narrate she was worried about her brother getting in trouble.

`` I 'm not certain. I just get a line about this now, '' Harry responded, `` I 've got to go. I 'm dismissing class now. I trust you 'll all use this prison term responsibly, '' Harry grinned, knowing they 'd all use the meter to goof off. `` We 'll extend with Patronuses following class. ``

Harry left the schoolroom as his scholar were packing up. He made it to Kendrick 's office in record time, gave the password, and entered the elbow room. Kendrick was sitting behind his desk, with Albus and Washburn sitting in front of it. There was an empty chair between them. cipher was saying a parole. Both Dumbledore and Snape 's portraits seemed to be paying close attention. Harry walked over to the empty chair and he noticed that Albus was shaking and he looked extremely scared.

`` Hi, Al, '' Harry whispered and gave his son a prompt hug before taking the midriff seat. Albus remained still and he was staring straight at Dumbledore 's portrait.

`` daddy wo n't be able to save you this sentence, potter, '' Washburn sneered.

`` That 's enough, Jameson, '' Kendrick said calmly, `` Now that Harry is here, could you delight explain to both of us what happened ? ``

`` I was trying to teach and all of a sudden, there was an explosion and a firework emerged from the mesa he was sitting at, '' Washburn spat, `` He set it off to make a disruption. He 's been doing it ever since the commencement of the yr. ``

`` Is this true, Albus ? '' Kendrick asked. All three adults turned to await at Albus, who was sinking lower in his nates. He did not say a word.

`` Of course of instruction it 's on-key ! '' Washburn growled after a few minute of silence.

A loud banging disrupted their discussion. Harry turned away from Albus and looked at the bureau door. `` Do you want me to get that ? ``

`` Yes, I suppose, '' Kendrick replied.

Harry got up and went over to the door. He opened it and Rose came bursting in. She was out of breath and looked flushed. `` Do n't. Expel. Him. '' she panted.

`` What ? ! '' Kendrick said, `` I was n't planning on expelling Albus. ``

`` You should ! '' Washburn stood up and glared at Kendrick.

`` Sit down, '' Kendrick responded, `` You have to respect my conclusion. I will not expel Albus, but there will be a penalization. ``

`` No ! '' Rose shouted. She walked towards Kendrick 's desk and stood in front line of it. Harry followed and stood behind Albus 's professorship. `` It was n't him ! '' she announced.

`` What do you signify ? ! '' Washburn exclaimed, `` Of course it was him ! I saw him ! ``

`` No, you did n't. You saw it came from our mesa, there was no way you could tell who actually did it. John, matt, and I were also sitting at that tabular array, '' Rose explained.

`` What are you getting at, pink wine ? '' Harry asked. Now he was thoroughly confused about the whole event.

`` It was me, '' rosebush said simply, `` It was my firework. ``

`` You set off a firework during a course of study ? '' Harry was mystified. If there was anyone who was less likely than Albus to induce hassle during class, it was blush wine. rose wine did love causing bother, but she never did it during classes.

`` Well, not really, '' rose wine glanced shiftily at Washburn and then returned her regard to Harry. `` Not intentionally, that is. It was one of those new fireworks that Uncle George VI is working on. They 're still in the testing stage. The ones that are supposed to actually disappear if you vanish them, but then reappear an hour or so later. Only right now they permanently disappear. ``

`` That 's respectable, '' Harry breathed a sigh of easing. There were very much sorry experimental intersection that could consume accidentally gotten set off.

`` Anyway, they 're very unstable right now and they go off if there 's a lot of magic around, and we were practicing charming newspaper wench, '' rose told him.

`` Why did you sustain it ? '' Harry asked.

`` I, um, took it during Christmas open frame, '' rose mumbled while looking at her feet.

`` What ? ! '' Harry exclaimed.

`` I found it at the tunnel and did n't realize it was one of the experimental ones. I just realized that the former day. ``

`` And why was it in your bag ? ``

`` I was meaning to give it to you during dad, but I forgot, '' Rose confessed.

Harry sighed, `` All right. I guess that whodunit is solved. ``

`` What about penalty ! They need to be punished ! '' Washburn shouted while glaring at Rose.

`` blush wine will get lines, but seeing as Albus was n't actually involved, I ca n't punish him, '' Kendrick explained.

`` But, but, '' Washburn sputtered.

`` And that is final, Jameson, '' Kendrick said firmly, `` Now, Albus and Rose, you should get going to your next category. Rose, you can do your course with professor Washburn tomorrow Night at seven. ``

Albus and rosebush nodded. Albus got up and gave Harry a hug before he followed rose wine out of the room. He still did n't say anything, but he looked a bit less scare off than he had earlier and he had stopped shaking.

Kendrick stood up, `` I 'm gladiolus we got this all straightened out. I shall see both of you later. ''

Washburn glared at Harry and stomped out of the room, slamming the threshold behind him. Harry turned to leave as well, but stopped when he heard a intimate interpreter. `` Harry, I would wish to discuss something with you, if you have time. ''

Harry turned around and saw the familiar spirit face of Albus Dumbledore looking at him. `` Yeah, I 've got sentence. ``

`` I 'll leave behind you to your conversation, then, '' Kendrick said as he left his office.

Harry walked over to Dumbledore 's portrait, `` What is it, Professor ? ``

`` I had an interesting conversation with Albus earlier. ``

`` Really ? '' Harry was very curious as to what the two of them would have talked about.

`` Oh, yes, '' Dumbledore continued, `` He has been wondering about the Hallows. ``

`` The, the, Hallows ? '' Harry stammered. He did n't guess his Kyd had ever even heard of the Hallows.

`` The Hallows. He overheard you talking about them over Christmas vacation. He, James, and blush wine have been attempting to enquiry them in the library ever since. ``

`` They have ? ''

`` That 's what Albus told me. Naturally, they did not find out any solution, '' Dumbledore went on, `` So, Albus asked me what I knew about them. ``

`` And did you tell him ? '' Harry asked anxiously.

`` I told him I do know about them, but that I could not give him the answers he wanted. I believe that is your duty, Harry, '' Dumbledore responded.

Harry breathed a sigh of relief, `` Thank you. ``

`` Why have n't you differentiate them, Harry ? ``

Harry stopped to opine. Dumbledore gazed at him while waiting patiently. `` Well, I guess because I do n't require a hale lot of the great unwashed knowing about them. The last thing we need is to birth someone seeking them out. ``

`` But you fear that is what 's happening. ``

`` Yes, I do. I 'm afraid that 's what the aspiration mean value, '' Harry told him.

`` Are you afraid the nestling will tell the entirely school ? ``

`` I guess I am, '' Harry confessed, `` Especially James. He 's always so eager to tell everyone he meets taradiddle about me. ``

`` He is gallant of being your son, '' Dumbledore said, `` And I think if you expressed your concern about others knowing about the Hallows, they would keep the secret. ``

`` You 're probably right, '' Harry sighed, `` But I 'm also afraid about whoever 's doing the Legilimency finding out about them. If I tell the nestling, then whoever wants the Hallows will be able to find out where they are. ``

`` Perhaps. It is a tough shout. But I 'm sure you 'll always make the right conclusion in the end, '' Dumbledore replied, `` Were you ever planning on telling them ? ``

`` Yes, I was. ``

`` When ? ``

`` I 'm not sure enough, I guess, '' Harry responded, `` When they were a bit former, I suppose. But I was waiting for the right minute. ``

`` And that moment might be approaching earlier then you thought, '' Dumbledore replied, `` Albus thinks you do n't trust him. ``

`` He does ? '' Harry sighed. This was getting more complicated by the moment.

`` Yes, he told me. He is a bit derangement about it. But it is aided by the fact that you are n't the only one keeping a big closed book from him. ``

Harry paused to think. Who else was keeping closed book from his son ? `` Oh, his friend, Matt, right ? He has n't told Albus yet, has he ? ``

`` No, he has n't. But Albus and Rose have figured it out on their own. I do n't think he fully understands why Matt has n't told him. He just sees it as the people he loves are n't trusting him. ``

`` Oh, no, it 's so much more complicated than that, '' Harry responded.

`` That 's what I told him. But that is an outcome that 's between him and lusterlessness and there is n't a good deal you can do about it. What you can do is reconsider when you are going to severalise your children about the Hallows. ``

`` Yeah, I guess I will. I just do n't want to rush into it. Maybe at the end of term would be expert. That way they can work the theme over the summer at home where they wo n't be tempted to recount others about it. ``

`` That would be wise, '' Dumbledore smiled.

`` Thanks for telling me, professor. I should probably get going, '' Harry said.

`` I shall see you soon, Harry. ``

`` Bye, '' Harry turned around and left the government agency. He thought about what Dumbledore said on his way to the Great vestibule for lunch. What Dumbledore said made sentiency, but he was still loth about telling his tiddler about the Hallows.

******

`` That was an impressive lie the Weasley miss told, '' Snape said curtly to Dumbledore after Harry left.

`` Yes, it was, '' Dumbledore agreed.

`` But you did n't tell ceramicist about it. ``

`` No, I did not feel it was requisite. I do n't think anymore punishment would throw accomplished anything. I ca n't imagine Albus or blush wine will do anything like that again in the good futurity, '' Dumbledore explained.

`` They did lie, though. They lied to the headmaster. That deserves penalty, '' Snape responded.

`` Perhaps, perhaps, '' Dumbledore said calmly, `` But, Severus, you did not tell Harry either. ``

******

`` That was crazy, '' Albus shouted after he left the master 's office with rosebush. As soon as the gargoyle closed behind them, James appeared in straw man of them.

`` Well, are you in huge trouble, Albus ? '' he asked anxiously.

`` Luckily, no, '' Albus told his brother.

`` What happened, then ? '' James pushed, `` Are you going to tell us about your talk of the town with Dumbledore ? ``

`` Of line ! '' Albus said, `` Just not here. What if someone heard us ? ``

`` There 's still an hour until our next stratum, why do n't we go up to the common room ? It might be empty now, '' Rose suggested.

`` trade good idea, '' Albus agreed. He started walking towards Gryffindor Tower. James IV and pink wine followed, neither of them saying a word.

The commons room was void. Albus, James, and pink wine hurried interior and snagged the skilful armchairs near the ardor. Henry James and Rose looked at Albus expectantly, waiting for him to begin.

Albus launched into a prolonged explanation about his conversation with Dumbledore. King James and pink wine sat quietly and did n't interrupt him. Albus told them every bit of the conversation, except for the parts about matte. Albus would differentiate Rose about that later, after St. James the Apostle left.

`` So, Dumbledore knows ? '' William James said after Albus finished.

`` Yes, he does, but he wo n't tell me very much, '' Albus explained, `` Just say me to ask my admirer. ``

`` That 's so strange, '' rosebush furrowed her forehead, `` Why would they know anything about the Hallows if we do n't ? ``

`` Dunno, '' James commented, `` He was a bit mad, though. ``

`` Yeah, but he was brilliant. He has n't been wrong about much, '' Albus reminded them.

`` So, you think we should tell our friends ? '' Rose asked.

`` I 'm not really sure, '' Albus confided, `` I 'd be willing to try anything right now to visualize out what the Hallows are, but what if Dad 's mad that we told hoi polloi ? ``

`` He ca n't be mad if we do n't even sleep together what they are, '' James II reasoned, `` As far as he knows, we 've never even heard the word 'Hallows'. ``

`` That 's on-key, '' Rose said.

`` wellspring, Dumbledore seems to reckon that Dad 's going to narrate us soon, possibly this year, '' Albus reminded them.

`` Maybe we should give it another month or so ? '' rosebush suggested, `` Maybe something will twist up in the depository library. ``

`` Dumbledore said we wo n't find anything in the library. The Hallows do have to do with Voldemort 's downfall. He told me that much. And hardly anyone knows about that part, of course of action. ``

`` I guess we could leave it a small while longer, to see if he tells us about them, '' James sighed.

`` Ok, then, we 'll wait a bit longer, '' Albus agreed, `` Anyway, if Dad wo n't separate us, he certainly wo n't need our friends to know. ``

`` Yeah, '' James II said, `` Oh, what punishment did you wind up with ? ``

`` I got detainment tomorrow night, '' blush wine told him.

`` I got null, '' Albus grinned.

`` What ? ! '' James shouted, `` Nothing ? ``

`` Nope, nothing. ``

`` I convinced them it was me. wellspring, I convinced them the firework went off accidentally, '' Rose explained the narration she told about the observational firework.

`` That 's amazing, '' James grinned, `` You must be an splendid liar. ``

rosebush blushed and suppressed a smile.

`` Speaking of dumbfound, '' Albus started, `` How did you get hold out where Kendrick 's office is ? ``

`` That would be all me, '' James continued grin, `` All my glare. ``

`` What did you do ? '' Albus asked suspiciously.

`` Well, I expected to come up Uncle Harry in his power after class, but he was n't there. I was so worried you 'd get expelled before I was able to excuse. So I went to get hold Henry James so we could figure out what to do- ''

`` Let me severalize him, blush wine, '' James interrupted, `` We ran back to Dad 's office and that 's when I thought of how we could find the office. Mind you, I wish I 'd thought of it earlier and then you would n't have had to do the whole pyrotechnic thing. ``

`` Well, what was it ? '' Albus asked impatiently.

James reached into his gown and pulled a rather old looking small-arm of parchment out. `` The Marauder 's Map. ``

Albus stared at it and smacked his os frontale. `` Of line ! Why did n't we think of it before ? ``

`` I dunno, but the thought just popped into my head. I 'm so gladiola Dad told us how it worked. We were capable to happen Kendrick 's office, but of course the room access was closed and we did n't know the watchword. But then we looked at the map and the piddling dot labeled 'Rose Weasley'had a voice communication house of cards that said 'Rubber duck'. So pink wine said that and she was in. Easy as that. ``

Albus continued to stare in awe at the map. `` So now you 've got the map ? You 're going to be in huge trouble. What if Dad 's using it ? ``

`` I do n't think he is. It was n't sitting out or anything. We were n't even sure it was there, thought he might have left it at abode. I summoned it. It came flying out of the bottom of a bole that was shoved in the back of the storage cupboard, '' James I explained.

`` Are you going to maintain it ? '' Albus asked.

`` For now, '' James told him, `` At to the lowest degree until I hear anything about Dad wondering where it is. ``

`` I hope you do n't get in worry, James II, '' Rose warned, `` Be careful. ``

`` I will, do n't worry. I 'd just like to get some rascality in, '' James grinned.

`` Be careful about who sees it, too, '' rosebush insisted.

`` I 'm just letting Nathan and Bradley see it. And Cedric and Ben, of row. They know all about it. And they keep asking when I 'd manage to chip it. ``

pink wine sighed, `` mulct. Well, we 'd scoop get going to grade. '' She stood up and walked towards the portraiture muddle.

Albus got up and followed blush wine, `` See ya later, Jesse James. ``

`` Bye, '' James IV waved.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my other babe and my sidekick. Thanks also to inkheart, Moonylupin, and St. Peter for their limited review !
Please read and critique !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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As the hebdomad progressed, Albus fell back into his usual Hogwarts number. His preparation drove most of the view about the Hallows out of his head. He occasionally thought about telling King John, matt, and Amanda about them, but he decided not to. James, who was even more busy than Albus, did not seem to be lingering on persuasion of the Hallows either. Between homework, Quidditch recitation, and Occlumency object lesson, he hardly had any leisure time at all. Albus had yet to find out about any amazing pranks that James had been able to pull out off with the help of the Marauder 's Map.

Towards the end of the week, Albus and his friends had something else to worry about that succeeded in Albus momentarily forgetting about the Hallows all together. The full moon. It fell on a Monday this month. The Billy Sunday before it, Albus and his friends were enjoying a snowball fight on the grounds.

savour ! John had sent a snowball at the rear of Albus 's head and the force caused him to fall human face first into the trench nose candy. `` I 'll get you ! '' Albus shouted as he stood back up and formed a enceinte snowball. He sent it flying across the nearly empty Quidditch tar towards John. But John Lackland was too prompt. He jumped aside and the snowball hit lusterlessness instead.

`` Ha, ha ! '' St. John shouted gleefully. They were having a team snow ball fighting. It was John and rose wine versus Albus, matt, and Amanda. John seemed transport that Albus had hit one of his own teammates instead. St. John the Apostle rolled another Charles Percy Snow ball and threw it at Amanda. It hit her square in the back. She in turn quickly made a snowball and threw it at Rose. blush wine jumped aside and the snowball sailed into the ground behind her. Despite the fact that Albus 's squad had three people and privy and Rose were only two, lav and Rose seemed to be doing much better. John had a good arm and very ripe aim and was great at dodging snowballs.

Albus quickly made another snowball and was about to confound it, but he noticed that Matt still had n't gotten up. He dropped his snowball and ran over to Matt and was hit in the top dog by a snowball sent by John.

`` Stop the secret plan ! '' Albus shouted and pointed to lustrelessness. John, Rose, and Amanda glanced over and immediately dropped their snowballs.

`` Matt, are you all right ? '' Albus poked lusterlessness 's arm, but he did n't respond.

`` lustrelessness ? '' John rolled him over onto his back. lustrelessness groaned. John pulled him up into a sit post. `` We should probably go inside, '' lav said to Albus.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed. He grabbed matte 's early arm and he and John pulled Matt to his human foot. `` I 'm sorry, I did n't suppose I threw it that hard. ``

`` I did n't call back you did either, '' John agreed. They walked back towards the castle, supporting Matt between them.

`` Maybe we should go to the Hospital Wing, '' rosebush suggested.

`` No, no Hospital annexe, '' lusterlessness whispered, `` I 'm fine. I 've just got to lie down. ``

`` Are you sure ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Yeah, I 'll be fine. Let 's just go back to Gryffindor, '' Matt said.

They walked slowly back to Gryffindor Tower. By the time they were at the common way, matte was able to walk unsupported, although he still did n't count good. Once they were in the elbow room, mat made a beeline for the dormitory. Albus and Saint John went with him so they could dump their wet cloaks and scarves.

`` Are you going to delay up here ? '' Albus asked Matt.

`` I think so, '' Matt said as he climbed into his bed.

`` Ok, well I hope you 're feeling dependable, '' Albus replied.

`` Me, too, '' bathroom said. But by the sentence the two boys left the room, mat had already fallen asleep.

Albus and John headed back down the circular staircase and back into the vernacular room. The way was packed and very noisy. Rose and Amanda had already settled themselves to doing homework at a diminished reclusive tabular array in a recess of the room. Albus and lav sat down across from the girls and took out their books.

`` So, '' Albus whispered, `` Is the full Moon sometime soon ? ``

`` Yep, '' Rose told him without looking up from her homework, `` It 's tomorrow. ``

`` D'you think it 'll be as bad as live on time ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I dunno, '' Rose answered, `` I really do n't do it why his translation are so bad. ``

`` I think he 's parting of that study Uncle greenback was talking about, '' Albus told them, `` When I was in the infirmary offstage last month, the healer mentioned a written report, but ma'am Pomfrey shushed him before he elaborated. ``

`` Then that might explain it. But why would he be in the study if it 's just do matter bad ? '' Saint John asked.

`` Who knows what it was like before it, though, '' rosiness commented.

`` adept point, '' John responded. The four ally sank into their thoughts and continued working on their preparation in muteness for a half minute. The noise in the common room made it difficult to run on a conversation. Albus managed to end his Charms preparation, but it took him foresighted than usual since he was distracted by worrying about Matt.

Albus closed his spell book and put it back into his bag. When he looked up, he was surprise to see Matt coming over towards them. Albus sat back up and poked John, who was still working diligently on his Herbology essay that was due the next day. toilet looked up as Matt sat down next to Rose.

`` What are you laugh at talking about ? '' Matt asked.

`` Not a good deal, really, we 're just doing preparation, '' bathroom told him, `` I guess I 'll have to finish this after dinner. '' He closed his Herbology book and stuffed it in his bag.

`` You coming to dinner ? '' Albus asked Matt, `` We were n't certain if you 'd be up. ``

A expression of panic flashed across flatness 's face, `` Why would you conceive that ? '' he asked quickly.

Albus glanced shiftily at John, `` Er, just because you did n't expect too in effect after getting hit by that snowball. ``

Matt visibly relaxed, `` Oh, um, I 'm feeling better now. ``

`` That 's good, '' Albus answered. Matt did attend a bit better, although he was still much paler than usual. `` Let 's go eat, then. I 'm starved. ``

pink wine and Amanda packed up their work and the group headed down to the Great entrance hall. Even though matte went to dinner, Albus noticed that he did n't eat much. After dinner, they headed back up to the common room to finish their homework.

`` I 'm still three inches short, '' John announced after he worked for another twenty minutes on his Herbology essay.

`` Let me see it, '' Rose reached over and took John 's essay. She read it silently for a few minutes. `` You can elaborate on the utilization of Devil 's gin in Potions. ``

`` Devil 's trap has uses in Potions ? '' lavatory asked.

`` Yes, in more advanced Potions. It 's in the record, '' rosebush told him. John flipped through his book and began working on his essay again.

Albus had finished his Herbology essay the old day and was currently working on a DADA essay that was also due the next day. `` Have you guys all finished the pop essay ? '' he asked.

`` Yes, '' Rose responded without glancing up from her book.

`` Yeah, '' Amanda answered while working furiously on her star chart.

`` Huh ? '' matt picked his caput up from his Koran. He had fallen asleep in his papa book.

`` Have you finished the DADA essay ? '' Albus repeated.

`` Oh, no, but I 'll get it done, '' Matt said tiredly and put his question back down on his book.

Albus glanced at rosiness, who gave him a disquieted tone. Albus had a feeling that Matt would not be getting the essay done. They both went back to their body of work without saying a Good Book. A few second later, someone tapped Albus on the shoulder.

`` Hey, '' someone said from behind him.

Albus turned around and saw Victoire standing behind his professorship. `` Oh, hi, Victoire. What 's up ? ``

`` Not often, '' Victoire sat down in the chair next to Albus. `` Amy and I just have to tell you something. '' Amy had sat down next to Matt and was trying to ignite him up.

`` What is it ? '' Albus asked. John, Rose, and Amanda had all looked up from their piece of work and were waiting for Victoire to get on with it.

`` Quinton Willinson has finished his detentions, '' Victoire told him.

`` Oh, outstanding, '' Albus groaned.

`` I just thought you should know, '' Victoire said.

`` Do you think he 's going to discommode me anymore ? '' Albus asked.

`` He might. Detention certainly deterred him for a month, but who knows what could hap now that he 's done with detention. I 'd just follow out, if I were you. All of you. ``

They all nodded, except for Matt, who was sleepily paying care to something Amy was whispering in his ear.

`` Well, I 've got studying to do, '' Victoire stood up, `` You coming, Amy ? I still have n't finished that Arithmancy stuff. ``

Amy stopped whispering to Matt and looked at Victoire. `` Uh, yeah, I have n't finished it either. '' She said something else to lusterlessness and then stood up and left with Victoire, while glancing once more at her brother.

`` fountainhead, this could be bad, '' Rose said once they left.

`` I know. He 's going to be livid after having detention for a month, '' Albus replied.

`` You 've got to be careful. He 's going to want retaliation again, '' privy said.

`` Yeah, he will, '' Albus agreed.

`` Has Slughorn mentioned anymore political party ? '' Gospel According to John asked.

`` No, surprisingly not. But I 'm not going to any even if he does. ``

`` I think that 's a good idea. I wo n't either. We should try and fend off Willinson, '' Rose responded.

They worked on their homework for another hr before going to bed. Matt had fallen asleep again shortly after Amy and Victoire left, and Albus had to nose him rather hard to wake him up. Once they got up to the dormitory, flatness collapsed onto his bed and was asleep within minutes.

Albus lay awake for a while before he managed to fall asleep. He was worried about matte and about what Willinson was going to do now that he was free from detention. Albus tried to straighten out his head, but there were so many affair worrying him that he found it impossible. His sleep was filled with strange dreams, involving Willinson, along with the common nightmare about the Hallows.

Albus went down to breakfast the next morning with trick and flatness. They were running late because it had taken John and Albus a while to wake up lustrelessness up. By the clip they made it to the Great Hall, Rose and Amanda had already finished breakfast and were getting cook to go to DADA.

`` There you are ! '' Rose said when Albus sat down future to her, `` You 'd better eat fast. We 've got to go to year in five moment. ``

`` I know, it took us forever to get him up, '' Albus gestured to Matt, who was leaning his chief on his arm and not eating anything. Rose nodded and glanced at Matt sympathetically.

Albus and John shoved a few slices of toast into their mouths and then the group was off to DADA. They managed to run into the room before the bell rang, but they were the last ones there. There was only one table useable, the one in front, which happened to be right in movement of the table Scorpio Malfoy and his friends sat at. Albus groaned silently and sat down at the mesa, hoping Malfoy would n't mention Matt 's fatigue.

`` I 'll collect your essays now, '' Harry announced once he 'd finished taking attendance. He got up and went around the room to gather the essays.

Albus handed his dad his essay and Harry moved on to matte. Matt was laying his promontory on his al-Qur'an and seemed to be asleep. Harry lightly tapped him on the berm. `` Huh ? '' Matt glanced up.

Malfoy snorted loudly behind them and Albus turned around and glared at him.

`` Do you have the essay done ? '' Harry asked quietly.

`` Oh, no. I 'm sorry, professor, '' matt whispered, `` I tried to get it done hold out night, but I just ... '' his articulation trailed off.

`` It 's all right, '' Harry replied, `` Try to induce it done by following week. I know I did n't give you much time, since I just assigned it Friday. ``

matt nodded and put his caput back down on the table. Harry went back to his desk and started the day 's lecture. `` Today we are going to continue- ''

`` Sir, '' Malfoy interrupted, `` Sir, why does he get extra time for his essay ? '' Malfoy pointed at Matt.

Harry sighed, `` I do not believe that is any of your business concern, Mr. Malfoy. ``

`` But it 's not very fair, is it ? Why ca n't I have extra meter ? ``

`` You handed in your essay today, did n't you ? '' Harry asked.

`` Yes, why ? ``

`` wellspring, then, you obviously are in no need of extra meter. If you ever think you need extra meter for an assigning, just order me why and I may grant it to you. ``

`` But- ''

`` That 's the end of this discussion, Mr. Malfoy, '' Harry cut him off, `` Now, back to the lesson .... ''

Harry lectured for the intact class. Throughout the first half of class, Malfoy repeatedly poked Matt with his sceptre to try and wake him up. Albus turned around and glared at him legion sentence but Malfoy kept doing it. Eventually, Harry noticed and threatened Malfoy with detainment if it continued. Albus was relieved when socio-economic class was over, but they still had to make it through Charms with the Slytherins. Although Albus knew even Malfoy would n't pry anyone with his wand in Washburn 's class.

`` So, first you get particular treatment from brothel keeper Pomfrey and now from Professor ceramist, too ? '' Malfoy glared icily at Matt after they left the dad room.

`` Just leave him alone, '' Albus growled.

`` I will find out why, you can enumerate on it, '' Malfoy stared at Matt, who had gone as pale as a ghost when Malfoy said this.

`` Is there a job ? '' Harry had just left the classroom and was standing behind Malfoy.

Malfoy jumped as he heard Harry 's voice, `` No, professor. '' He gave flatness one more glare before taking off for the Charms classroom.

`` I 'll see you later, Al, '' Harry gave Albus a hug before going back into the classroom.

`` Bye, Dad, '' Albus hugged him back. Albus and Matt started to take the air to appeal. John, blush wine, and Amanda had gone on ahead, but Albus was staying behind to walk with flatness, who was walking considerably slower.

`` Late again, Potter, Eckerton, '' Washburn growled as they walked into the elbow room. They headed for their usual back tabularise and passed Malfoy on the way. He was smiling smugly at them, noticeably happy that they were late. The class went by in its usual agony. Washburn seemed to have increased his hate for Albus since the pyrotechnic incident, if that was possible. He called on Albus for every question, even though Albus never raised his hand. The only sentence he did n't do this was when he chose to telephone on Matt, which was every sentence he fell asleep.

Much to Albus 's surprise, matte made it through double Herbology without going to the infirmary Wing. Albus was sure that Neville would have made him go after he tripped over a pot and banged his arm on the bench. But Neville just asked if he was all rightfield and continued teaching.

After dinner, Albus and his supporter found themselves taking a much needed gaolbreak from studying. They had all finished the homework that was due the next day and were relaxing at their usual board. Albus was losing horribly at star 's chess to Rose, whose knight was currently beating up Albus 's queen. John and Amanda were playing a rather loudly game of Exploding Snap.

`` You want to make for, lusterlessness ? '' John asked as he was dealing cards for the next round.

`` No, '' Matt groaned. He was curled up in an armchair near the mesa and was wincing every few minutes.

`` All right, '' John gave him a worried facial expression, `` Do you need me to go with you to the hospital Wing ? ``

`` Not right now, '' Matt whispered and closed his centre again.

Albus glanced up and looked at his booster. They all had worried looks on their faces. Albus watched matt fall back asleep, which only took two minutes.

`` Queen to D4, '' Rose announced, `` And checkmate. '' pink wine 's female monarch moved to the square, pulsate up Albus 's remaining bishop, and won the game. `` Good game. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Have you ever lost ? ``

`` I 've lost to my dad quite a few times, '' rosiness said as she put her chessmen away.

Albus put his chessmen back in their character and folded up the board. He looked up once he was done and saw Amy coming over. She walked over to matt and started gently shaking him awake.

`` Hi, Amy, '' Albus said.

Amy looked over at Albus, `` Oh, hi, Albus, '' she said quietly and went back to waking flatness up. matt opened his eyes and groaned.

`` C'mon, it 's prison term to go, '' Albus heard Amy voicelessness. Albus looked at Rose, John Lackland, and Amanda. They were all watching Amy, too.

`` Ugh, no, '' Matt whispered. But he sat up and winced.

`` It 's ok, number on, '' Amy grabbed mat 's arm and pulled him gently out of the chair. Matt got up and let Amy lead him out of the common room.

`` Has she ever taken him to the hospital Wing before ? '' Albus asked once they left.

`` No, I do n't think so, '' Rose said.

`` She must recollect it 's going to be bad this time, '' trick said glumly.

`` surmisal so, '' Albus responded quietly.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my early sister, and my sidekick. Thanks as well to inkheart and Moonylupin for their reviews !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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The four friends were very subdued the rest of the evening. They all joined in a game of Exploding Snap, but none of them were very into it. Although they did n't talk about Matt the rest of the evening, Albus knew they were all thinking about him. Eventually, they just decided to go to bed.

Albus climbed into his four-poster bed and tried to flow asleep. He tossed and turned for hours, but sleep would n't come in to him. He was too disturbed about Matt.

`` Are you awake, John ? '' Albus asked once he was sure Bilius and Ethan were asleep.

Albus heard the bed to his right creak as Saint John turned over. `` Yeah, ca n't sleep. ``

`` Me neither. ``

`` Maybe this month wo n't be as bad, '' John suggested.

`` Hope so, '' Albus said, `` But even if it is n't as bad, he wo n't be in class tomorrow. ``

`` Which means that Malfoy 's going to say something, '' John groaned.

`` Yeah, we 've got to do something about that, '' Albus decided.

`` We could hex him, '' St. John the Apostle suggested.

`` That 'd be beneficial, but I do n't entail like that. I mean something that 'll thrust him off the trail. We ca n't let him find out, '' Albus explained.

`` Oh, right, '' John thought for a minute, `` How about, since mat wo n't lie about where he is, we 'll do it for him. ``

`` That 's what I was thinking, too, '' Albus said, `` I know, if somebody asks, we 'll just tell them matt 's visiting his purge grandma. ``

`` trade good estimate, '' John agreed.

Albus yawned, `` Well, I suppose we should try and get some sopor. ``

`` Probably. Good night, then. ``

`` 'Night. '' After another time of day of laying awake, Albus finally fell asleep.

Albus woke up find very threadbare, after only a few hour sleep. He went down to breakfast with John and met Rose and Amanda there, who were looking worried and not eating much.

`` Have you heard anything yet ? '' Rose asked once Albus sat down.

`` No, have you ? ''

`` No. I have n't seen Amy at all and have n't had sentence to go to the infirmary Wing. ``

`` We could try and go during lunch, '' Saint John the Apostle suggested.

Everyone agreed to that plan and managed to eat a bit of breakfast before heading off to Potions. By the prison term they got there, Slughorn was ready to pop class, which meant Malfoy did n't have any fourth dimension to ask where matt was. Since it was just a single period, Slughorn lectured during the entire class and Albus had a hard time staying awake. He managed to make a few notes, but by the metre the class was over, he felt in need of a nap.

`` Hey, there, Potter, '' Malfoy ran up beside Albus just outside the door of the Potions classroom.

`` Malfoy, '' Albus mumbled and kept walking.

`` Could n't serve but acknowledge that Eckerton was n't in form today. You gon na tell me where he is ? ``

`` Visiting his gran. She 's not doing too well, '' Albus lied.

`` Really ? That 's interesting, '' Malfoy raised his brow, `` After seeing him yesterday, I 'd have guessed he was the one who 's ill. ''

`` Maybe he 's just worried about his grannie, '' John said shortly, before turning down the corridor towards the transfiguration room, `` Now we 've got to go to class. ``

`` See you, then, '' Albus said to Malfoy as he followed john to Transfiguration. Malfoy turned around and left without saying a Word of God. `` I hope that worked. ``

`` Me, too, '' John agreed.

After Transfiguration, Albus and his friends ate a hurried lunch and went to the hospital wing. When they got there, Albus noticed that the doors were opened. `` fountainhead, that 's a good sign. ``

`` Definitely, '' Rose agreed and walked inside. Albus, john, and Amanda followed her. The bed at the far end of the ward had the drape drawn and all the other beds were empty. `` He must be in there, '' rosebush pointed to the curtained bed.

`` Where 's Madam Pomfrey ? '' Albus whispered. The nanny did n't appear to be in the room.

John pointed to the curtains, which started to rustle, `` She must be back there. ``

A gap appeared in the curtains and lady Pomfrey came out from behind them. She was carrying an discharge ice and a clipboard. When she noticed the radical of Gryffindor number 1 years, she came rushing over to them. `` I thought I 'd be seeing you lot here. ``

`` Is lusterlessness all right ? '' Rose whispered anxiously.

`` Yes, he should be fine in a duo days, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey smiled.

`` So, it 's not nearly as bad as last time ? '' Albus asked.

`` Oh, no, he 's much better this month, '' madam Pomfrey set the empty looking glass down on a table and started writing on the clipboard.

`` Well, can we see him ? '' John asked tentatively.

`` Sorry, but no. He 's sleeping right now. And I do n't think he wants visitors. He has n't told you yet, has he ? ``

`` No, '' John answered.

dame Pomfrey sighed, `` Of course. well, I do hope he tells you soon. I have a tactual sensation this whole matter would be easier on him if he was n't keeping it to himself. ``

`` I guess we 'll just see him when he leaves, then, '' Albus said.

`` I think that would be best. He should be set up to leave on Thursday or Fri. You 'd scoop be off to class, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey picked up the empty glass and strode into her office.

As Albus walked to the common room to collect his book of account, he thought about what lustrelessness was going to do when he found out that they knew about his secret. lusterlessness seemed so keen on keeping it from everyone. He did n't even want his friend to gossip him in the Hospital annexe. Yet, he had n't done a very good job at hiding it. Or had they found out so easily just because Rose knew so often about werewolf ? Albus was n't sure he would have figured it out without her. But even so, if Albus had found out so quickly, how long would it be until Malfoy found out ?

******

`` Hey, Potty, '' a frigid voice from behind Albus said. It was Friday night and Albus, rose wine, privy, and Amanda were eating dinner while wondering when lustrelessness would come back. Albus turned around at the phonation and choked on his pumpkin juice when he saw who it was.

`` Willinson, '' Albus coughed.

`` What do you require ? '' John the Evangelist said shortly as he slapped Albus on the back.

`` Oh, not much, '' Willinson replied, `` Have n't seen you much since our footling duel terminal calendar month, commode. ``

`` Yeah, I hear you 've been quite occupied with detainment, '' Albus laughed.

`` jest now, but the custody is over. I 'll experience plenty of time on my hands now. ``

`` And what are you going to do ? You could n't even hex me. Your friends did it. ``

`` Does n't matter. I 'm not the one who wound up in the infirmary Wing, am I ? '' Willinson snorted.

`` And I suppose you 're gallant that a first year could disarm you ? '' Albus grinned, `` Because if I were you, I 'd be a bit embarrassed. ``

`` Shut it, Potty, I planned that. ``

`` No, you did n't. Quite the spirit of daze on your face after I did it, '' Albus responded. Willinson glared at him.

`` What 's going on here ? '' person from behind Albus asked.

`` N-nothing, Professor, '' Willinson said quickly.

`` Then I 'd paint a picture returning to the Slytherin table, Mr. Willinson, '' Neville replied. Willinson turned on the billet and headed to the Slytherin table without saying another word.

`` He was n't bothering you, was he ? '' Neville asked once Willinson left.

`` Not really, '' Albus told Neville.

`` Good. If he 's causing trouble, just let me know. I think the hold may accept set him unbent, though. He 's not nearly as smug when he 's in the forest, '' Neville responded and left for the faculty table.

Albus laughed, `` I guess he 's not as brave as we thought he was. ``

`` track he 's not ! '' John exclaimed, `` He 's a Slytherin, not a Gryffindor. ``

`` Yeah, we 're the intrepid I ! '' Albus agreed.

After dinner party, Albus and his acquaintance went to the unwashed room to spend the evening. The elbow room was quite a bit emptier than usual. There was a big dueling nightspot meeting and to the highest degree of the Gryffindors were attending it. 1st years were not allowed to link up the dueling club, so all of them were in the uncouth room, along with some older students who were n't part of the club. Since it was so vacate, Albus and his friends were capable to snag a few of the skillful armchairs in figurehead of the flack. They were all putting off prep, except for rose wine who was reading a playscript, since it was the weekend.

`` You going to conjoin the dueling club next year ? '' Albus asked, while sorting through his chocolate Frog card. `` I ca n't wait to unite. King James I says it 's awful. ``

`` Of course ! '' John shouted, `` Hey, have you got any Snape calling card ? ``

`` Yeah, I 've got quite a few, '' Albus shifted his deck of bill and pulled out five Snapes, `` Want one ? ``

`` Yeah, I still have n't gotten any, '' St. John the Apostle told him. Albus handed him one of his cards.

`` Is it normal to get injured badly in the dueling cabaret ? '' Amanda asked.

`` It 's possible, but it does n't usually happen, '' Albus told her. `` The teachers make sure nothing bad happens. ``

`` Then I might join. How about you, prove ? '' Amanda said.

`` Sure, probably, '' rosebush responded absentmindedly.

`` Are you ok ? You 're awfully quiet, '' Amanda commented.

`` I 'm all rightfield, '' Rose answered, `` I 'm just thinking about matte. Madam Pomfrey said he was supposed to be back today. ``

`` I 've been thinking about that, too, '' Albus told her, `` I hope he 's ok. ''

`` well, even if he does n't come back until tomorrow, it 's still better than last month, '' lav whispered, `` But I wonder when he 's going to tell us. ``

`` Why do n't we go up to the dormitory and let the cat out of the bag about it, '' Albus suggested, `` It 's too quiet in here, someone 's going to hear us. And Bilius and Ethan are down here anyway. '' Albus pointed to a board to their left, where the other two Gryffindor first twelvemonth boys were sitting playing gobstones.

`` trade good idea, '' rosiness agreed and closed her record book. The group got up from their chairs and followed Albus to the son'dormitory.

When they got up to the residence hall, Albus sat down on his bed. rosebush and Amanda looked around a bit before sitting down next to him.

`` I ca n't take it anymore, we 've got to tell apart him ! '' can shouted and started pacing around the way, `` I 'm not sure he 's ever going to tell us ! ``

`` He will, we 've just got to give him some more metre ! '' Albus insisted.

`` I 'm not so indisputable, Albus. He has n't told us yet, what makes you so sure he 'll ever do it ? '' Gospel According to John questioned.

`` I do n't know, I just think he will. ``

`` wellspring, I do n't. And I 'm not so sure I can keep pretence I have no clue why he leaves every calendar month. I mean, how long has it been since we 've known ? And we 've known him since September. Is n't that enough time for him to commit us ? '' Saint John the Apostle stormed over to his bed and threw himself on it.

`` Honestly, Saint John, that 's really not a tenacious time. September was n't even six calendar month ago, '' rosiness reasoned.

`` So you 're on Albus 's side, then ? You think we should just pretend we 're clueless about his disappearances ? '' John asked.

`` Yes, I do. I think he will tell us, once he realizes he can swear us, '' pink wine told him.

`` Well, what more do we have got to do ? '' John huffed.

`` It 's not that wide-eyed ! '' Albus shouted, remembering his conversation with Dumbledore. `` Do you eff how toilsome it must be for him ? He 's probably had people abandoning him because of this his wholly life ! ``

`` And I suppose you know more about it than I do ? Last I checked, you were n't a werewolf, '' John shouted.

`` Yeah, I do have a go at it more than you ! '' Albus shouted back, getting up from the bed and walking towards John.

`` Really, and how would that be ? '' can got up and stood in figurehead of Albus, staring at him.

`` Because Teddy 's dad was a werewolf ! I 've told you that ! And my dad 's told me all about what he went through ! You know he was n't even going to be allowed to amount to Hogwarts, but then Dumbledore became headmaster and let him ! And then he could n't even keep on a job because no one wanted to hire a wolfman ! So, yeah, I do eff a bit more than you do ! ``

`` mulct, so you know Sir Thomas More about it than me, but how do you know that mat will secernate us ? ``

`` I just do, ok ? '' Albus insisted, thinking of what Dumbledore had said.

`` wellspring, I think that it might be well-off if we just told him we know. Then he could just babble to us about it and we could stop keeping mystery ! '' John shouted.

`` Albus, '' Rose said from behind Albus and started tugging on his robes.

`` Not now, Rose, '' Albus pushed her helping hand away, `` It probably would be sluttish, but it 's his mystic, so let 's just let him order us ! ``

`` But what if he does n't ! '' John threw his men up in the air. `` Are we just going to go our whole seven years at Hogwarts pretending we do n't have it off ? ``

rosiness poked Albus more persistently and Albus pushed her manus away again. `` Of course not, because he 'll secern us soon ! ``

`` Albus ! '' Rose shouted louder and pointed to the doorway.

Albus turned his nous away from john and glanced at the doorway. Matt was standing there, looking tired and run down, with a take aback look on his look. He stared at Albus for a few seconds before turning and running back down the stairs.

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A/N : I know it 's unretentive than usual, but I wanted the cliffhanger. The next chapter will be quite a bit longer, as I 'm planning on combining two chapters again.

Thanks to my sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, my other babe, and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart and Moonylupin for their review article !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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Albus turned back to trick and they stared at each other. `` How long had he been standing there ? '' Albus asked quietly.

rosebush sighed, `` Since right after you finished talking about Teddy 's dad. ``

`` So he definitely knows we know, '' Albus responded.

`` I 'd say so, '' rose agreed.

Albus and St. John the Apostle looked at each former again, and with their argumentation forgotten they both turned and ran out of the dorm room to watch mat. Albus did n't look back, but the phone of footsteps told him that rosiness and Amanda were n't far behind. Albus did n't recognize what he was going to say to matte when they found him, he just knew he had to do something. This was not how Albus imagined flatness telling them about his lycanthropy. And he was sure that it was not what Dumbledore had in idea. But what 's done is done, and Albus could only hope that matt was n't too mad at them.

When they reached the common room, it was packed. Albus realized that dueling club practice must have just let out. He glanced quickly around the elbow room, thinking they 'd never line up Matt amongst all the other Gryffindors. St. John elbowed Albus in the English and pointed towards the Fat Lady 's portrait. It was opening, and then it closed again, but they did n't see anyone enter or leave. Someone short must have left. Albus knew it was Matt. He motioned for his admirer to surveil. They pushed their way through the throngs of older educatee and eventually made it to the portrait. The chemical group scrambled through the hole and landed in the seventh floor corridor.

`` Where is he ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I dunno, '' Albus said, glancing around. matte was no where in sight. `` I wish we had the vulture 's Map. ``

`` The what ? '' John asked.

`` The Marauder 's Map. It 's that map of Hogwarts my grandpa and his friends made. Remember ? I told you about it. ``

`` Oh, yeah. ``

`` well, we do n't have it. But we 'd better get going if we have any hopes of finding him, '' Rose started running down the corridor.

Albus, John, and Amanda followed Rose down the corridor. After a minute or so, Albus spotted Matt. `` There he is ! '' he whispered to his friends. They continued running and it did n't take long to catch up to Matt. Since it was right after a full Moon, Matt was going deadening than usual.

Albus and his protagonist stopped a few meters in front of him. `` mat ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

flatness turned around and walked slowly towards his friends, past a tapestry of
Barnabas the Barmy trying to teach round to dance ballet, and stopped a few fundament in front of Albus. `` So, you know ? '' he asked in a voice so soft, Albus could hardly hear it. He stared at the ground.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus answered in an equally quiet voice.

matt did n't look up and turned around and paced slowly down the hallway. He seemed to be thinking hard. When he got just past the tapestry, he stopped and walked back towards Albus. Albus knew he was trying to think of something to say. Albus glanced at his friends and all of them looked very uncomfortable. They stood completely still, not saying a word, while flatness continued pacing up and down the hallway.

On his tertiary or fourth time returning to Albus, Albus was n't surely as he had lost tally, Matt finally looked up at him with a pall verbal expression on his face. Matt opened his mouthpiece and was about to say something when he stopped. He turned and looked at the wall facing the tapestry.

Albus turned to see what mat was staring at. When his gaze reached the wall, his mouth fell open. A doorway was sitting upon the rampart, where there had n't been a door before. Albus turned around and looked at rosiness. Albus had a feeling he knew where the doorway came from, and Rose 's knowing look of awe confirmed it. John was staring at it as if he had been stupefied. Amanda was blinking and rubbing her eyes, as if the door was just a figment of her imagination.

Matt glanced at Albus and then he walked towards the threshold. When he reached it, he grasped the handle and opened it. He walked slowly inside, leaving the room access undecided behind him. Once Matt was inside, Albus nodded to his champion and walked inside. John, Rose, and Amanda followed.

When Albus got into the room, he gazed around in awe. The integral elbow room was decorated in Gryffindor orange red and gold. The high-pitched ceiling was painted Au and the walls were covered in orange red drapery. The story was covered in vermilion and gold patterned carpet. In the back of the room was a turgid open fireplace ended with a greaves fire. In strawman of the blast, were three large comfy looking scarlet armchairs and a big atomic number 79 couch.

`` What is this post ? '' Amanda asked as she walked around the room.

`` I think it 's the elbow room of demand, '' Albus told her, `` It 's also called the cum and Go way. It only appears when you 're in indigence of it. And it changes according to your needs. ``

`` Dad 's told me about this before, but he would n't tell me where it was or how to find out it, '' King John told them.

`` Saame with me, '' Rose said.

`` Me, too, '' Albus replied.

`` It 's incredible ! '' Amanda grinned, `` Looks just like the Gryffindor rough-cut room. ``

`` Only better, '' John responded, `` We can sit near the fervour. ``

`` It looks like it was made for us, '' Albus commented.

`` It does, '' pink wine agreed, `` Matt, did you ... bespeak this ? ``

`` Yeah, '' matt sighed.

`` So, you knew about the Room ? '' John asked.

`` Yes, '' matte answered, `` Amy told me about it before I came to Hogwarts. She thought, it well, might be useful, for me. '' He sighed, `` Sometimes I come here after I get out of the Hospital annexe, if I want to just be alone and slumber. ``

`` And does it seem like this then ? '' Amanda asked.

`` No, usually it 's got a four-poster bed and the fireplace, and that 's it. ``

`` So, it 'll give you whatever you ask for ? '' Amanda responded.

`` Er, I think so, within reason, '' Matt told her, `` Like, if you wanted a room full-of-the-moon of Galleons, I do n't think it would be able to do it. And it ca n't give you food. Something about the laws of Transfiguration or something. ``

`` Is this where you 've been all day ? '' John asked as he wandered around the room. `` Because we went to see you on Tuesday and gentlewoman Pomfrey said you 'd get to leave Th or today. ``

Matt sighed and slowly walked towards one of the armchairs and sat down in it. Albus followed and sat down on the lounge. rose sat down side by side to him while John and Amanda took the remaining chairs. `` Yeah, I was here, '' Matt said quietly after a few mo of secretiveness. `` I was just so tired and I could n't present going to Charms and dealing with Washburn and Malfoy. ``

Albus could empathise that. Looking back on the previous months, he realized that Washburn did lean to holler on Matt more right after he got back from the infirmary Wing.

`` You were still tired ? Even after spending three days in the hospital Wing ? Why ? '' John the Divine asked while he pulled a burnt umber Frog out of his pocket and opened it. `` Oh, looking, Albus. Now I 've got Snape ! ``

`` I dunno. That 's just how it is, '' Matt mumbled.

The group sat in silence for a few bit. Saint John the Apostle pulled out a few more frogs and offered them around. Albus, Rose, and Amanda each took one and ate them. Albus got Minerva McGonagall, which he gave to Amanda since he already had about seven of her.

`` You guys have to promise me something, '' Matt broke the silence, `` Do n't tell anyone. ``

Albus stared at him. `` Of form we wo n't, '' he said solemnly. John, Rose, and Amanda nodded their head in agreement.

`` Thanks, '' matte whispered, and got up from his chair.

`` Where are you going ? '' Albus asked.

`` I dunno. I just figured you would n't want to hang out with me anymore, '' lusterlessness looked nervously at Albus.

`` What ? ! '' Albus shouted, `` Of course we still want to attend out with you ! ``

`` Really ? '' Matt asked, while a grin slowly crept up on his face.

`` Definitely ! '' John assured him.

`` Of course of action, '' Amanda smiled.

`` We wo n't abandon you, '' Rose said adamantly.

Matt visibly relaxed and sat back down in his chairwoman. `` I guess I just thought that you would n't. Since, well, everyone I 've ever been friends with stopped talking to me once they found out. ``

`` That wo n't happen with us, '' Albus assured him.

`` But does n't it scare off you, just a bit ? '' Matt asked tentatively.

`` Nope, '' Albus replied, grinning. He glanced at Rose, who grinned back.

`` What 's so funny story ? '' Matt looked from Albus to Rose.

`` Did prof Kendrick Tell you that you are n't the first off werewolf to attend Hogwarts ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah ... '' matte responded warily, `` He said there was one early, a couple decennary ago. ``

`` And I 'm guessing he never told you who that was ? '' Rose replied.

`` Er, no, he did n't, '' Matt answered, `` But Amy told me that teddy 's dad was a werewolf and he went here, so I assumed it was him. ``

`` Exactly, '' Albus grinned, `` And my dad 's teddy bear 's godfather. ``

`` Really ? '' Matt asked.

`` Yup, '' Rose said. `` I 'll let Albus recount you the repose. ``

`` You mean, there 's more ? '' lustrelessness stared in awe at Albus.

`` Yup, you want to hump why my dad 's Teddy 's godfather, do n't you ? ``

`` Of form ! ``

`` Well, here it goes. My grandpa, the one who was killed by Voldemort, went to Hogwarts the same time Remus lupin did. Along with Canicula Shirley Temple and St. Peter Pettigrew. They all became pretty good ally. Remus Lupin tried to observe the fact that he was a wolfman secret, but eventually, my grandad, Sirius, and Peter found out. And they did n't abandon him. In fact, they all became illegal animagi and spent the full moons with him. ``

`` Really ? '' flatness glanced around at his friends.

`` Really, '' Albus continued, `` They stayed Friend right field up until Pettigrew betrayed my grandparents. And you know that story. Then, Remus met Nymphadora Tonks, who was somehow related to Sothis, I think she was his full cousin 's daughter. Anyway, they got espouse and had a son, teddy bear, right in the height of Voldemort 's reign. They both were killed in the battle. But Remus had made my dad Teddy 's godfather, so he 's kind of like a brother. So, you can see that no way would I abandon you. ``

`` Wow, '' matte grinned at Albus, `` But what about the relaxation of you ? ``

`` Nope, you do n't sustain to vex about me, '' Rose answered, `` teddy 's like my cousin. ``

`` I 'm not related to any werewolf, heck, you 're the low one I 've met. But do n't worry. You 're my Friend and nothing can change that, '' whoremonger replied.

`` Honestly, it scared me a bit when I first found out, '' Amanda admitted, `` But I 'm Muggle-born, so the only idea of werewolves I 'd had were in Muggle fairy tale. ``

lustrelessness looked at her and the smiling on his face disappeared. He glanced nervously at Albus.

`` But I 'm fine with it now. go up taught me a lot. I know now that real loup-garou are n't anything like the ones in fairy tales. And besides, just because you get furry once a month does n't mean you 're a different person the rest of the calendar month. I was friends with you before I knew and I 'll stay friends with you now, '' Amanda assured him.

Matt relaxed, `` Thanks, guys. I 've never had unspoilt protagonist. But how long have you known ? ``

`` wellspring, Rose figured it out in November, but we were n't positively charged until I wound up in the hospital flank at the same time as you last month. ``

`` What ? ! '' matt 's back talk fell open, `` How did that occur ? ``

Albus explained the duel with Quinton Willinson and how he had overheard Madam Pomfrey and the therapist talking early the side by side morning.

`` Why did n't you secern me you knew ? '' Matt asked quietly.

`` I thought it would be better for you to tell us when you 're ready, but I guess that did n't hap, '' Albus answered.

`` surmisal not, but thanks anyway, for the thought, '' Matt replied. Everyone sat quietly for a few moments, before Albus broke the silence.

`` Could we, er, ask you inquiry about it ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

flatness sighed, `` surely, I guess. ``

`` If you do n't want to- '' Albus started.

`` No, it 's fine, it 's just I 've never actually told anyone about it. It 's always been my parents or Amy. But yeah, ask whatever you want, '' lusterlessness told them.

`` All right, if you 're for sure, '' Albus paused, `` Well, when did it take place ? ``

matt took a thick breath. `` When I was five. We were Muggle camping at the metre. My mum 's Muggle-born, and she had gone camping when she was a kid, and she wanted me and Amy to get the experience. You guys do know what Muggles do when they camp, right ? ``

`` That 's when they live in those cramped, lilliputian tent that are just big enough to log Z's in, right ? And they do n't use electricity or any of that stuff and nonsense they use instead of conjuring trick ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked.

Amanda stifled a giggle at his description of camping. `` fountainhead, that 's the ecumenical idea, I suppose, but it 's usually a lot funner than you describe it. ``

`` Right, '' flatness said, `` Well, that 's what my mum wanted to do. So Dad agreed because he thought it sounded gaga enough to be fun. And it was, at first. We did n't use any deception. I do n't commend a whole lot, but I do remember Dad playing with matches trying to get the campfire lit. It took him a half time of day. Amy says that after that first campfire, Mum lit all the residuum of them.

`` We were going to camp for three nighttime, I think. The second base dark was a full phase of the moon moon. It was a blue moonlight. You know, when there are two synodic month in a month, they call the second one a blueness Moon. They do n't happen often. Only every 2 or 3 years. It was the end of December, think back that the season are opposite in Commonwealth of Australia, so it was lovesome. We were all in one collapsible shelter, and in the middle of the dark I had to go to the bathroom. There was a recollective pass to the bathroom, through the woods. I was halfway there when I heard this rich growl. The last thing I remember is a huge animal pouncing on me and a searing pain in the neck in my back, and then I blacked out. ``

Albus listened but did n't say anything. He heard Amanda gasped. Albus form of felt sick to his breadbasket. Ever since he found out that lustrelessness was a werewolf, he knew he must give been bit, but he never really thought about the detail. Now, hearing about it, he felt awful that his friend had been through it.

`` And then what happened ? '' John whispered.

`` Well, my parents told me what happened a patch after I woke up. Amy is a really light sleeper and she heard the growls and my screaming. She woke up my parents and my dad went noticed that I was gone and he ran out of the tent with his wand. There were a bunch of Muggles who had woken up and were running around screaming. They told my parents that a kid was being attacked by a wildcat. That kid of course, was me. My parents kept running towards the growls until they found me. Dad saw what was happening and started shooting off all form of go that somehow had great effect on the werewolf. Then my mum started trying to stun the loup-garou, too. After a few spells, the lycanthrope was stunned. ``

`` Muggles saw it ? '' Rose asked.

`` Yeah, '' Matt continued, `` My mum sent Holy Writ to the Ministry and they sent Obliviators and representatives from the lycanthrope Control Unit. Dad was read/write head of that department at the time. None of the Muggles remember anything from it of trend, but it was in the paper, so all the genius and Wiccan found out about it. But they did n't know it was me who got attacked. The law prevents the names of underage werewolves from being released. ``

`` Wow, '' Albus said, `` I guess that 's expert that no one knew it was you. ``

`` It did n't really help, though, '' lustrelessness replied bitterly. `` But there 's more before I get to that. After the Ministry people showed up, my dad Apparated with me to Eastworth, that 's one of the infirmary in Australia. I spent nearly a month there. right field up until the next full synodic month. I woke up two weeks after it happened. Spent the next two hebdomad waiting for all the injuries to heal, but they did n't heal all the way. That took a couple months. Anyway, the first replete Sun Myung Moon was awfully. I hardly remember any of it. Just the pain and illness in the few days before it and the two weeks it took to heal after it. ``

`` But what about the Wolfsbane Potion ? '' Rose asked tentatively.

Matt sighed, `` The matter is, that does n't work for me. The Healers have n't been capable to reckon out why yet. I took it during the first gear few replete synodic month and it had no essence on me at all, so my parents stopped giving it to me. ``

Albus could n't call up of what to say. He now knew the tale. lusterlessness had told them the solid thing. It seemed ilk once he started, he just did n't end. Maybe it felt thoroughly to finally tell someone about it ? Albus figured that was it. He could n't imagine carrying around a cloak-and-dagger like that for XII years. Then Albus remembered something Matt had told him on the train. `` Um, Matt ? Why did your family movement to here ? '' Albus had the feeling that had something to do with his being a wolfman. matt had n't mentioned much about moving to England, and when he talked about it on the caravan, he changed the field quickly.

`` Um, well, because of me, '' mat replied glumly, `` I never told you before, but my parents were really long-familiar in Commonwealth of Australia. Not really renowned like your family is, Albus, but just sort of upper class case. Both of them were. My dad comes from a long telephone circuit of pure bloods. But not the kinds who despise Muggles and Muggle-borns. They were just always involved in the Ministry and had a payload of gold, that form of thing.

`` And my mum, her family is really rich. They were always involved in all sorts of celebrity type material. They knew all kind of illustrious people and hosted go for parties and things like that. Then my mum got her letter telling her she was a witch. My grandparents were horrified and excited at the Saame time. They obviously could n't narrate any of their Quaker about it, and they had a heavy meter keeping it a secret.

`` My parents met in school and got married a few twelvemonth later. Put together, they were the ideal magical couple. My dad got a job at the Ministry in the Werewolf Control whole. Eventually, shortly after I was born, he worked his way up to Head. Then, a few months after I was bitten, he became Head of the entire section for the Control and Regulation of Magical Creatures. kind of ironic, is n't it ? ``

`` That 's how he knew how to daze the werewolf, '' Rose commented.

`` Yeah, and it 's a honorable thing he did, '' Matt said, `` Anyway, my household was involved in all sorts of project events and committees, both magical and Muggle. My parents were living the everlasting life history. Then, I got bit. ``

`` And it all had to stop, did n't it ? '' Albus said softly.

`` Yes, and slowly it did. commencement, they stopped doing the Muggle things. Muggles do n't know werewolves are real, so they could n't do much Muggle stuff anymore. The Muggles would ask what was wrong with me and my parents could n't tell them. If they lied and said it was some sort of Muggle disease, it would have been all over their word. So, my parents just told everyone that they were going to relax and raise their family away from all the celebrity.

`` The conjuration stuff was a little more complicated. Everyone who worked in my dad 's place knew that I had been bit and they kept it a secret for a tenacious metre. For over two years, no one knew it happened. Then, there were Thomas More werewolf attacks down there. So people started drafting anti-werewolf legislation. My dad immediately rejected all of it. People got suspicious, and one of his colleague got pretty fired up about it. He was all for more restriction. So, he leaked that I was a wolfman to other office of the Ministry. Of track, they could n't really fire him for me being a lycanthrope. But right before that happened, the Ministry managed to buy the farm a law requiring all places of transformation to be fork buildings. The department overruled Dad 's veto and the minister signed it into law. Dad refused to comply and got fired for breaking the law. ``

John let out a low tin whistle, `` flatness, I 'm so pitiful, did you think it was your fault ? ``

`` Yeah, I did, actually, '' Matt said darkly, `` Mum and Dad kept telling me it was n't and not to think that way, but I could n't facilitate it.

`` But it was just all downhill from there. My parents had already sent a letter to Amy 's school, the Aboriginal Australian schoolhouse of Sorcery, to see if I could still attend. They would n't let me. So they were planning on moving anyway. ``

`` They would n't ? ! '' St. John the Apostle shouted, `` But why ? ``

`` Said it was too unsafe. I was really depressed after that. The transformations got big. I always held out Bob Hope that I 'd be able to go to school. Amy would add up home with history and I looked forward to when I 'd get to go. So, just to seek out the options, my parents sent letters to a few other school. The Salem hag Institute in Massachusetts, Hogwarts, and the Adirondack honorary society of trick in New York State. And a yoke others that I do n't remember the names. Hogwarts, Salem, and Adirondack both said I could still pay heed. Adirondack had never had any werewolves attend, but they said they would work it out. Salem turned out to be a really bad approximation. My parents and Amy did n't care it.

`` By then, my parents were definitely uncoerced to move so I could go to school. They were debating which school I should go to when they read about a study St. Mungo 's was doing. It would try to reckon out why wolf's bane would n't act upon for some people. That was the resolve factor. They decided on Hogwarts and signed me up for the study. We moved that summer. ``

Albus sat and thought. He now knew what Dumbledore had meant by 'true repugnance in his past tense'. It was n't just being bit by a werewolf and becoming one himself. It was the fact that matte 's family 's whole liveliness was drastically changed because of what had happened. They moved halfway across the public because of it. `` What about Amy ? She had already been at schoolhouse in Australia for a few geezerhood, '' Albus commented.

`` Yeah, she had. She was 14 when we moved, going into her quarter class. And she was n't too happy about it. I know you guys just see her as a protective honest-to-goodness sister, but she was n't always, '' mat paused, `` She was really upset when my parents told her that we had to move. She did n't want to leave behind her booster. She blamed me. ``

`` But she 's always looking out for you ! '' Rose replied, `` I ca n't imagine her being mad at you. ``

`` I know, '' Matt said, `` But it 's true. You see, my parents did n't let her be anywhere near me when I transformed. She stayed with my grandparents every full synodic month that she was n't in shoal. She stayed with them for a few days after the good moon, too. By the time she got back, I was mostly better. ``

`` Oh, '' Rose said, `` But what happened ? ``

`` well, once we moved, she could n't go stay with my grandparents every full moon anymore. We moved in June, right after the full lunar month. There were two More full-of-the-moon lunation before she started school. Dad still had connexion with the Ministry in Australia, so he managed to set up portkeys for her to take to my grandparents'household, even after we moved. She was still mad at me when she left for school and it made me finger horrible. But after a few week, she settled into Hogwarts and made new friends, including Victoire.

`` Then the summer came and my parents had to face that she would be there during full moons. Something happened and Dad could n't get portkeys to Australia anymore. By then I 'd been a werewolf for over three years and she still had n't been there. She was 15, then, so my parents figured she was old enough anyway. Anyway, the night came and I, er, went to the place where I transform when I 'm house. In the cockcrow, my parents always came and got me really other, so they could take me to my bed and give me my potions and hooey. well, apparently that night Amy had n't slept at all. She told me later that she could n't once she learn my screaming and howling. She stayed awake all night, waiting for the lunar month to set, and once it did, she went and got me even before my parents did.

`` Well, once she saw me, she realized what I was going through. That morning, she saw me unconscious mind, with broken bones, and covered in blood line and cold shoulder. It made her realize how bad it really is. She told me later that once she saw me, she started crying and she started trying to heal my cut. Then my parents came and found her. They started crying with her and let her help them do everything they do after a translation. When I woke up, we had a long talk, all four of us. Amy completely forgave me for moving here and she 's been very protective ever since, especially when it comes to someone being rude about my condition. ``

`` Oh, Matt, '' Rose whispered, `` I 'm so beaming that Amy is n't mad at you anymore. I just ca n't believe you have to go through all this. ``

`` It 's all compensate, I 'll subsist, '' matte assured her.

`` I know, it just does n't seem fair, '' Rose said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Do you know what happened to the werewolf that bit you ? ``

`` My dad told me, '' matt answered, `` He got in a load of trouble, because of what did happen and what could make happened. He could have attacked some of the Muggles that were there, instead of me. It was only by opportunity that it happened to be me, a virtuoso, he bit. We were probably the only thaumaturge anywhere near that camping ground, but there were load of Muggles around. Anyway, he got sentenced to ten years in prison house. ``

`` So he 's still there ? '' bathroom asked.

`` Yup, '' Matt replied. He paused for a few moments, watching his champion. `` So, now you know the whole story. ``

`` Were you really planning on keeping it a secret the whole time you were at Hogwarts ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, I 'm not sure. I guess so. That 's what my parents told me to do anyway. They told me not to tell anyone, and I did n't want to tell anyone either. I did n't really think anyone would incur out. ``

`` pink wine is pretty smarting, though, '' Albus said, `` I would n't have figured it out without her, well, until I wound up in the hospital Wing with you last-place month. ``

`` I guess I would n't take been capable to go all through shoal without anyone finding out. ``

`` So who does love ? '' Albus asked.

`` Hardly anyone. The teacher, of course. Most of them have been really nice about it, especially your dad, Albus, '' flatness answered.

Albus grinned, `` Yeah, like that essay that was due the other day. ``

`` Oh, yeah, I 'd blank out about that, '' Matt groaned, `` I 'll have to do it this weekend. Washburn 's been reasonably rude, but he 's rude to every Gryffindor. Amy had warned me about that. ``

`` What about over Dec 25 holiday, did you really descend out of a tree diagram, or was that just another cover-up taradiddle ? '' Albus asked, suddenly remembering that.

Matt blushed, `` Er, yeah, it was. There was a full lunar month over the holiday. The minute one of December to be claim. It was a blueish moon. Only the second one since the one when I got bit. The get-go one was when I was 8 and it was awing. Much defective than the even total lunar month. And the one in Dec was just as awful. Plus, I had to transform at my grandparents mansion. In their bonce, which my dad sound proofed and strengthened the rampart with magic. So, yeah, those accidental injury were from the wax moonshine, not falling out of a tree. ``

`` I had a feeling about that, '' Albus commented, `` So, no other students make out ? ``

`` Nope, '' matte answered, `` You 're the only ones, besides Amy. She 's not allowed to separate her friend. She has n't even told Victoire. ``

`` Thanks for telling us the whole story, '' blush wine said.

`` You know, it feels full to finally tell someone. sort of like I can unlax now. I was always afraid you 'd find out and tell someone and I 'd have to result. ``

`` We 'd never do that, '' Albus assured him.

`` Thanks, '' Matt smiled.

Just then the door to the way burst spread and Amy came running in, out of breath. `` There you are ! '' she shouted and ran towards Matt.

`` How 'd you get in here ? '' John asked. `` We 're already using the Room. ``

`` I made all the requests for it and I always request that Amy be able to find me, but to stay fresh everyone else out, '' matt answered.

`` And it 's a right thing, too ! It 's half past midnight ! I was worried sick ! Madam Pomfrey said you left years ago, but I have n't seen you all day, '' Amy gave him a hug.

`` Ouch ! '' Matt winced.

`` Oh, sorry ! '' Amy released her adhesive friction, `` Have you been here all day ? ``

`` Pretty lots. ``

`` You skipped stratum ? Are you sure you 're better ? '' Amy asked in a vex tone.

`` I 'm just tired and I did n't require to face Washburn today. He always calls on me when I 'm run down, he does it on purpose, '' Matt yawned.

`` Oh, he 's such a git, '' Amy replied, `` But are you sure enough you 're ok ? I could rent you back to the infirmary Wing. ``

`` I 'm very well, honestly, '' matt said adamantly.

`` How did they have sex how to get in here ? '' Amy glanced around at Albus, John, pink wine, and Amanda, and then leaned over and whispered something in mat 's ear.

`` It 's all right hand, Amy, '' Matt sighed, `` They know. I told them. I told them everything. ``

`` What ? ! '' Amy opened her centre broad and stared at Matt. `` Mum and Dad told you not to ! ``

`` I know, but it 's all right. They figured it out calendar month ago and were just waiting until I was gear up to order them. ``

`` They 'd meliorate not tell, '' Amy glanced around at Albus and the others.

`` Do n't worry, they wo n't, '' matte assured her, `` Albus 's dad is Teddy 's godfather. So, they definitely wo n't enjoin. Albus 's grandpa was really dependable Quaker with shimmy 's dad. ``

`` I knew that, '' Amy said, `` shot I just never really put it together. ``

`` Yup, and you know, I 'm really gladiolus I told them everything. I can relax a picayune bit. ``

`` Just be sure no one else finds out, '' Amy warned.

`` I know, I 'll be heedful, '' Matt said, `` But you know, you could secern Victoire, if you want. I do n't think she 'd tell anyone, do you, Albus ? ``

`` No, she would n't tell anyone, '' Albus assured them.

`` Yeah, I know she would n't. I 've been tempted to tell her ever since she told me that her dad was attacked by Fenrir Greyback, '' Amy revealed, `` But Mum and Dad do n't want me to tell anyone. ``

`` I know, they did n't require me to tell anyone either, but that did n't influence out, '' lusterlessness replied, `` I just wanted you to get laid that I would n't take care if you told Victoire. ``

`` Ok, I 'll think about it. But thanks for telling me that. It 's hard keeping it a secret. Sometimes I just want to speak about it. ``

`` Me, too. That 's why I 'm kinda relieved they know now, '' mat gestured to his friends.

`` I guess you should let Mum and Dad know that you told them. ``

`` I will, I 'll beam them a alphabetic character this weekend, '' mat yawned.

`` You really ought to go to bed, '' Amy suggested.

`` That 'd probably be a goodness idea, '' Albus agreed, `` Quidditch is tomorrow. ``

`` Oh, yeah, I 'd forgotten ! '' Matt said excitedly.

`` Should be a unspoiled plot, '' John commented.

`` Ravenclaw will probably win, '' Amanda predicted.

Albus and his friends walked back to Gryffindor towboat with Amy, and the rough-cut elbow room was practically deserted by the meter they got back. Victoire was there, along with Samantha Meyers, and a twosome early seventh years who Albus vaguely recognized. Amy bid them goodnight and went to sit with her supporter. When Albus, toilet, and Matt went up to their dormitory room, Bilius and Ethan were already asleep. Albus climbed into his bed feeling very cognitive content. He was happy that mat had finally opened up to them, but still felt a bit worried about what lustrelessness was going through. Albus was also quite thrilled with the idea of having the Room of Requirement useable to them. He did n't think he 'd bring off to feel that until he was much older, but now he would be able to use it during all his eld at Hogwarts. With that and the Marauder 's Map, if James let him borrow it, Albus and his friends would certainly be able to have some fun. If only he had the Invisibility Cloak. And with thoughts of his dad actually giving him the Cloak, Albus fell into a surprisingly reposeful sleep.

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A/N : So, there it is ! The chapter you 've been waiting for ! I really hope you liked it. I wound up re-writing a bunch of it, since percentage had contradicted my early story. It was originally two chapters, but I combined them to make up for the last chapter which was quite short !

speechmaking of my former story, I will be posting it very soon ! It 's called In Moon 's darkness and it 's basically the intersection of me having too lots background storey about lustrelessness to possibly put into a story that focuses on Albus. The story goes into great point about why Matt and his kinsfolk moved to England. It 's done in first someone, from Amy 's spot of purview. I have thirty chapters written so far. I hope you 'll all break it out once I post it !

Thanks as usual to my sister and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my other sister, and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart, Moonylupin, and mamaykay for the reviews !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry potter

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Albus woke up late the next cockcrow, but he was still up before John or mat were. Bilius and Ethan 's seam were empty, so they were already up. Albus was surprised that John was n't up yet. He rarely ever missed breakfast, even on the weekends. The Quidditch match was n't for another two time of day, so Albus quietly got dressed and show a bit of his Quidditch in the Twentieth hundred book. He had been reading for a half hr when he heard someone seed into the room.

`` Albus ? '' a vox called out, `` Are n't you up yet ? ``

Albus looked up from his book, `` Oh, hi Rose, Amanda. I 've been up for a spell, but those two are still numb. '' He jerked his head towards John and Matt 's beds.

`` I do n't retrieve I 've ever seen King John omit breakfast before, '' rosiness commented while looking at his sleeping form.

`` Me neither. But we did last out up pretty late terminal night, '' Albus said.

`` Yeah. We 've been up for a piece, doing preparation, '' Rose responded.

`` Still have shipment more to do, though, '' Amanda sighed, `` I have n't made much onward motion on my phases of the moonlight essay for uranology. ``

`` Bet flatness could take that done in fifteen minutes, '' Albus commented, `` He could probably help you. ``

`` Good thought, I 'll ask him after the mate, '' Amanda decided, `` We should probably get them up, though. ``

Albus agreed and pulled back the pall on Matt 's bed while rosebush and Amanda prodded toilet awake. Albus looked down at Matt, who was sleeping soundly. Albus almost felt bad waking him up, but he knew Matt wanted to find out the match and would be mad if no one woke him up in time. Albus pulled back the blankets and gently poked his arm.

`` Wha 's going on ? '' lusterlessness mumbled. He sat up and scratch his eyes.

`` We almost slept through Quidditch, '' John replied sleepily as he got up out of bed and headed to the bathroom.

`` Oh, right hand ! '' Matt yawned and got up immediately.

XV minutes later, Albus headed down to the Great Hall with his friends to ingest luncheon before the match. The usual excitement that accompanied a Quidditch mate was in the air when they walked into the room. Harry had been right when he said that Quidditch would involve mass 's brain off Rita Skeeter 's article. Albus had n't heard anyone mention it in sidereal day. It seemed as if everyone had finally forgotten about it.

`` Why ca n't the condition be like this when we play ? '' James groaned as he sat down next to Albus.

The weather was unusually good. It was still bitterly cold, but it was relatively sunny.

`` Well, it does n't matter, because our team can recreate in any weather ! '' Samantha Meyers announced. `` The Hufflepuffs on the other script .... ''

`` They 're honest than the Slytherins this year, '' King James commented.

`` True, but the Slytherins have n't totally lost the Cup yet. Ravenclaw only beat them by 30 tip in their couple. Now, if they lose to Hufflepuff in the side by side match, they 'll be out of the running, '' Samantha explained.

After luncheon, everyone made their way to the Quidditch sales talk. Albus and his protagonist managed to get good seats, but none of them really knew which team to root for. The peer lasted almost two hours before the Ravenclaw Seeker finally caught the Snitch. Both Seekers spent almost of the friction match hovering above the early players, neither of them managing to see the Snitch. James was sitting a few seats down from Albus and Albus heard him shouting to the Seekers on legion function because he had seen the Snitch. In the end, the Ravenclaw searcher saw it hovering near the Hufflepuff end post, caught it, and won the game.

Albus and his champion spent the remnant of the day working on their homework. Matt was capable to serve Amanda fetch up her essay, and everyone helped him entrance up on all the work he had missed the former week.

******

`` Fifteen minutes left ! '' professor Slughorn announced during double potions one March good afternoon, a few weeks later. `` Bring a sample of your potion up to my desk for grading and clean up, please ! ``

Albus poured a bit of his boil-cure potion into a ampule and took it up to Professor Slughorn while John cleaned out their cauldron.

`` Albus, m'boy ! '' Slughorn grinned at him and took his potion. He held it up to the Christ Within and judder it. `` Near perfect, I think ! Could have done with a few more than porcupine pinion, but very good.

`` Now, I am planning on having another little get together this Dominicus evening, '' Slughorn went on, as he put Albus 's potion on his desk with the others. `` I was hoping you and Miss Weasley would be able to take care. ``

Albus inwardly groaned. He did not want to go to another Slug clubhouse meeting. The thinking of being that close to Quinton Willinson again made him shudder. `` Er, well, actually, I 've got moral with my auntie Hermione every William Ashley Sunday. rose does, too. ``

`` Oh, what a shame, '' Slughorn replied, `` Maybe side by side clock time, then ? ``

`` Er, maybe, '' Albus shifted nervously. He had no aim of ever going to another lick Club group meeting. At least not while Willinson was still at Hogwarts.

Albus went back to his table, got his bag, and left the room with his champion. As they walked up the stairs to the Entrance Hall, Albus told them about the Slug gild meeting.

`` You 're not going, are you, Albus ? '' John questioned.

`` Definitely not, '' Albus replied adamantly, `` Plus, I 've got Occlumency that night anyway. ``

`` I 'm glad he made the confluence for a Sunday, then, '' pink wine commented.

`` Yeah, me too. But he wo n't do it again, though. Now that he knows we have lessons that night. I guess next time I 'll just have to say I 've got too much homework or something, '' Albus said.

`` Or use a emesis troche or Fever Fudge or something, '' John the Divine suggested.

`` That could work, '' Albus replied as they emerged into the Entrance Charles Francis Hall. They started to scotch towards the Great Hall when Albus noticed someone walk towards them. He grabbed the backs of blush wine and Matt 's robes and stopped them.

`` What ? '' Matt turned around and looked quizzically at Albus.

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered, `` Come here. '' Albus lead them over to a Scots heather cupboard and pulled them inside it.

`` What are we doing in here ? '' John Lackland asked loudly.

`` Shush ! '' Albus said again and opened the room access a crack. `` bet at that man. He 's who I saw arguing with Washburn ! ``

Rose, whoremaster, Matt, and Amanda each took a turn peering out the door to look at the wizard. `` Are you sure ? '' Rose asked.

`` positive degree, '' Albus replied.

`` delay, you saw him arguing with Washburn ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` Oh, right, you were in the hospital Wing then, '' Albus remembered. He quickly rehashed what he had overheard while doing detention for Washburn.

`` So Washburn 's doing some kind of job for that wizard ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said, `` And I think they 're up to something. I say we follow him. ``

`` But it 's time for supper ! '' John the Evangelist whined.

`` Exactly. Which means no one will be around to inquire what we 're up to, '' Albus reasoned. `` Plus, we 'll get supper after. ``

John sighed, `` amercement. Where do you conceive they went ? ``

`` Probably Washburn 's office. ``

rosebush opened the doorway. `` Let 's go then. ``

Albus followed Rose out the door and they crept up the stairs towards Washburn 's office, with John, Matt, and Amanda following. The corridors were vacate since everyone was in the Great Hall. They reached the magical spell classroom and Albus peeked inside. Washburn and the former magician were standing near his desk, arguing in hushed vocalisation. Albus motioned for his friends to move closer and the five of them huddled near the open threshold, being careful not to micturate too practically noise.

`` You have n't done it yet, '' the strange man hissed, `` Why have n't you done it ? ``

`` I 'm gloomy ! '' Washburn replied, `` I have n't been able to yet ! ``

`` Well, why not ? It does n't seem that difficult to me. ``

`` It 's heavily than you 'd think ! I do n't know where they are ! '' Washburn answered.

`` I 've told you how to ascertain out ! ``

`` I know and I 've been trying. I have, really ! '' Washburn moaned.

Albus looked quizzically at his acquaintance. He had never seen Washburn like this before. Usually, it was Washburn who was doing the bullying, not the former way around. But this man was obviously angry that Washburn had n't finished whatever he wanted him to do.

`` wellspring, hurry up then. Try harder ! '' the unknown wizard insisted.

`` I will, I will. ``

`` You know we can not proceed without them. I 'm positive I know where one of them is, but it will prove very difficult to get. Once we find out where the others are, we 'll do them first. They 're the more of import one anyway. So, you must do it soon. Just find out where they are. I 'll retrieve them. You 've obviously had difficultness with even doing the simple chore of finding them, let alone retrieving them, '' the wizard growled.

`` Yes, I know. I will try harder, I will. It 's just ..., '' Washburn trailed off.

`` What ? ! '' the wizard demanded.

Albus leaned his head closer to the doorway, but Washburn remained silent. Then Albus felt a wet object collide with his promontory. `` Argh ! '' he screamed and turned around.

`` Ickle firsties ! '' Peeves was bobbing up and down in the air, cackling madly. `` Spying on instructor ? Very naughty !

`` Peeves ! '' Rose shouted as the poltergeist heaved a piddle balloon at her head. Peeves cackled and threw another water balloon at Albus.

`` What is going on out here ? ! '' Washburn appeared in the doorway, his voice returning to the usual rage that Albus was used to.

`` Firsties spying on your meeting, professor, Sir ! '' Peeves saluted Washburn and flew down the hallway, laughing hysterically.

`` Potter ! '' Washburn spat, glaring at Albus. Albus stood trembling and soaking wet, waiting for whatever was coming succeeding. At the clock time, spying on Washburn seemed like a swell idea. But now that he thought about it, it was inevitable that they would be caught.

The strange wizard came sauntering out of the room with a self-satisfied look on his face. `` I think that concludes our discussion. I shall be speaking with you shortly. '' He walked down the corridor and disappeared around a corner.

Washburn watched him depart and once he was gone, Washburn turned back to Albus. `` Just what, do you lot, suppose you were doing ? '' he seethed.

Albus stood still, but said nothing. rose, Gospel According to John, lusterlessness, and Amanda remained still as well. Washburn looked at each of them in play and returned his regard to Albus. `` 100 points from Gryffindor. And hold, this Mon at 7 pm, all of you. I 'll suffer you polishing the trophies, '' he spat.

Albus nodded. 100 points, that was the most Washburn had ever taken from them before. The hold was no big passel, but the item would set Gryffindor quite a direction back in the running play for the House Cup.

`` Um, Professor, '' Matt whispered, `` Is there any hazard we could do it this weekend, maybe, instead of Monday ? ``

Washburn turned to glower at Matt, looking livid. `` NO ! I 've got other detentions scheduled for the weekend ! You 'll meet me in the Trophy room at 7 pm on Monday, or I 'll cover you to the schoolmaster ! '' He gave lustrelessness one more piercing stare and went back into his elbow room, slamming the door behind him.

Albus turned and looked at his ally. They all had shocked expressions on their faces and Matt looked quite worried. pink wine 's hair was dripping with water.

`` Told you we should have gone to supper instead, '' John commented, as they started walking down the corridor.

`` Shut it, '' Albus replied, `` We may have gotten detention, but we did hear some useful entropy. ``

`` He 's got a breaker point, '' rosiness said, `` Washburn 's definitely up to something. That man wants him to find something out, find out where something is, and then they 're going to try to slip it. ``

`` I guess, but we do n't even get laid what they 're trying to find out. We ca n't really do anything about it, '' John responded.

`` And Washburn 's even more tempestuous with us, '' Matt said dryly.

`` Yeah, but he already hates me so much that it does n't matter, '' Albus pointed out, `` By the way, why did you want the detention switched ? That 's not the, you know, is it ? '' Albus asked, not wanting to say 'full moon'out loud, in pillow slip anyone was lurking around.

`` No, '' Matt whispered, `` But it 's two Nox after the hold, so I 'll already be feeling execrable. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, remembering how wear lusterlessness always was in the Day preceding the fully moon. `` Maybe you could peach to my dad or prof Longbottom ? They 'd induce Washburn switch it. ``

`` I know they would, but then word would get around to Malfoy. The last thing I need is him wondering why I can choose when I have my custody. You know Washburn would somehow acknowledgment it in year. ``

`` Yeah, he would, '' Albus said darkly.

`` We 'll just fine-tune your prize for you, '' John assured him, `` Just attain it take care like you 're doing something and we 'll treat for you. ``

Matt smiled weakly, `` Thanks. ``

`` So, we going to go eat supper or not ? '' John turned towards the stairs.

`` You guys go ahead, '' Albus answered, `` I 've got to go deepen out of these wet robes. '' He gave Rose a meaningful glance.

`` I 've got to change, too, '' pink wine told them and gestured to her soaking robes.

`` All right field, '' John said, and started down the stairs with matt and Amanda.

Albus and Rose set off for Gryffindor pillar. Once they entered the deserted mutual room, rose wine turned to depend at Albus. `` You thought of the Hallows when you heard Washburn talking, did n't you ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said, `` Did you ? ``

Rose nodded, `` It does seem untrusting. ``

`` It 's got to be him. It fits. That 's why he hates me. He thought I 'd know where the Hallows are, but I do n't. ``

`` I dunno. I mean, it does fit, but still, Washburn 's a instructor. ``

`` So what ? teacher can be Dark whiz, too. ``

`` I know, but we do n't have any test copy ! We did n't even see him say 'Hallows', '' Rose reasoned.

`` I know, so I do n't consider we should severalize my dad yet, we ca n't get him in trouble, but it 's a head start. And we learned more about the Hallows, '' Albus pointed out, `` They already know where one of them is, but it 's going to be operose to get. Maybe it 's heavily guarded ? ``

`` Probably. Anyway, I think we 'll probably have to take Dumbledore 's advice and talk to John the Divine, matte, and Amanda about it. We 've got to regain out what they are. ``

`` Yeah, we should. We 'll do it soon, '' Albus assured her.

`` Albus, do you think that Washburn, or whoever is trying to get the Hallows, will be capable to bring back Voldemort ? '' blush wine asked quietly.

`` I do n't conceive so. I mean, he 's dead, right ? So how could he come in back ? Plus, in my dream, the genius said he was going to bring about Voldemort 's 'ideals'. ``

`` wellspring, his 'ideals'are pretty scary, '' rosiness shuddered, `` And the idea of a back Voldemort 's almost as scary as the offset one. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Which is why we 've got to keep Washburn from getting the Hallows. ``

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A/N : Thanks to my baby and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my other sister, and my comrade. Also, thanks to Moonylupin, XXEveryinchXX, and TheNobleHouseofPotter for their recap !

I 've posted my next story, In moonshine 's phantasma. Please check it out on my author page !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramist

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Word bed cover like wildfire that a group of first class had lost Gryffindor 100 breaker point in one night. Quite a few elder students were very raging about this, especially since the loss of points placed them below both Slytherin and Hufflepuff in the running for the House Cup. After classes the side by side day, Albus and his friend were bombarded by a couple one-fifth years, including his cousins Georgia and Gabriella, demanding to know why the detail were taking away. Albus quickly explained what had happened with Washburn, and silence fell around the common elbow room. After a few moments, someone started clapping. Soon after, a couple more people joined in and eventually the entire common room was cheering and slapping Albus and his friends on the back. Albus stared quizzically at everyone, wondering why they were all shouting that he had lost them so many points.

`` Why 's everyone clapping ? '' Albus asked James.

James grinned, `` Because you made Washburn so angry ! Everyone hates him ! No one 's had the spunk to spy on him before. It 's brilliant, really. I 've heard masses have been trying to get him to renounce since he first started teaching when Victoire was a first year. You 've done so much hooey to him this year. first gear you set him on fire- ''

`` That was a staring stroke ! ``

`` Department of Energy n't matter, the pointedness is, he 's horrible to everyone, except the Slytherins. And you 're rebelling against him. Honestly, you 've got more nerve than I thought, '' King James I stared in awe at his brother.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled at James. Albus had felt horrifying about losing so many breaker point, but if the former Gryffindors were n't going to manage, than maybe it was n't so bad after all.

For the next few days, whenever Albus and his friends were in the plebeian elbow room, the other Gryffindors would ask Albus for assistant in planning pranks to pull on Washburn. Apparently, the other Gryffindors saw Albus 's catching as inspiration to visualize out their own style to labor the Charms prof crazy. Albus, however, wanted naught to do with it. He was far too vex about the thought of Washburn and that other maven trying to find the Hallows and use them to complete Voldemort 's plans. He spent the weekend trying to do homework, but always wound up thinking about the Hallows and trying to imagine of something that was heavily guarded that could be used to bring in power.

By the time Monday arrived, Albus had exhausted every possible hefty objective and could n't suppose of anymore. Mon meant that it was time for their detention with Washburn. After dinner, Albus and his friends walked slowly to the trophy elbow room. Albus was not looking forward to being in close vicinity with the person who was most likely performing Legilimency on him.

`` Are you all right, Matt ? '' Rose asked, jolting Albus out of his cerebration. He turned around to look at Matt, who was lagging behind the respite of them, even though they were all walking slow.

`` Yeah, '' Matt yawned, `` Just tired, no big deal. ``

`` You should go to Madam Pomfrey. She 'll constitute Washburn reschedule the detention, '' pink wine suggested.

`` And have Malfoy find out ? No. Plus, if I do it another meter, I 'll have to do it alone, '' Matt shuddered at the thought of being alone with Washburn.

No one said another word the rest of the way to the trophy room. When they got there, Washburn was already there, looking homicidal, and standing next to a large bucket of cleaning supplies.

`` It 's 7:05. You 're belated, '' he growled.

`` Sorry, sir, '' flatness mumbled, `` It was my demerit. ``

`` I do n't worry who 's fault it was. It just means you 'll be here later, '' Washburn barked, `` You 'll be staying until every one of these trophies is spotless. No magic, of course. ``

Washburn strode over to a bombastic armchair that was sitting near the room access, sat down in it, and started his common glaring. Albus picked up a feeding bottle of brush up and a rag and wandered over to a trophy for the Gobstones Club. John and Matt started polishing prize on either side of Albus, while Rose and Amanda started on the other side of the room. The trophy room was quite large and Albus guessed it would hire them at least two hours, perhaps more, to polish all the prize and causa. They polished in silence for a half hour, moving along the rampart of prize as they went on. Albus was polishing a Wizard 's Chess backup trophy from 1922 when he felt a needlelike poke in his side. He turned to his right field and saw John, who had stopped polishing his prize. `` What ? '' Albus whispered.

John silently pointed to Albus 's other side and Albus turned to count. lustrelessness was standing with his head slumped up against the trophy instance. He was fast asleep. Albus glanced nervously back at King John. Albus did n't desire to make love what Washburn would do to Matt if he discovered that he was n't awake.

`` mat, '' Albus prodded his protagonist gently, `` inflame up. ``

Matt groaned a little and lifted his forefront off the glass. Albus glanced nervously at Washburn. Luckily he was currently pointing out a fleck of turd that Rose had missed on a Quidditch trophy. Albus poked Matt again, a little harder this time.

`` Ouch ! '' Matt winced and opened his eyes. He glanced around with a confused looking at on his face.

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered. `` You fell asleep. Keep polishing. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Matt picked up his rag that had fallen on the floor when he drifted off and went back to polishing.

The three boy continued polishing in silence for the next hr. Occasionally, either Albus or John would have to wake Matt up. Matt was not getting a unanimous lot of polishing done, but since he was working right succeeding to Albus and John, Washburn did n't seem to notice.

`` Albus, '' John whispered a while later.

`` What ? '' Albus looked over at lav. John pointed at the prize he was polishing. Albus looked at it and saw that it was a plaque of everyone who received an award for extra services to the school.

John pointed at two names on it, Harry thrower and Ron Weasley. `` What did they do ? '' he whispered.

`` Saved my mum from Voldemort and a basilisk in the Chamber of enigma, '' Albus whispered back. `` And discovered that it was Voldemort attacking scholarly person in the first plaza. He possessed my mum through a journal he wrote when he was 16. ``

King John stared wide-eyed at Albus. `` Whoa. I think I remember my parents telling me about that. They were n't in Hogwarts yet when that happened. ``

`` Quiet back there, '' Washburn growled.

Matt jerked awake at the sound of Washburn 's interpreter. `` Wha 's going on ? '' he said a little too loudly.

`` Oh, fire up up, Eckerton ! It 's only 9 pm ! '' Washburn shouted, `` The sooner you finish, the Sooner you can go to bed. ``

`` Sorry, sir, '' lusterlessness replied and went back to polishing a trophy.

As Albus continued polishing, he thought about the awarding his dad had gotten all those class ago. He had been a hero every year he had been in school. He still was a hero sandwich. 'Will I ever do anything like that ?'Albus thought. 'Will I ever live up to what people think I will do ? Everyone thinks I 'll do great things just because my dad did, but what if I ca n't ?'Albus doubted that he would ever get an award for special avail to the school.

`` Eckerton ! '' Washburn shouted, causing Albus to come out of his thoughts. `` Why ca n't you last out awake ? ! Get up ! ``

Albus looked over at lustrelessness. He was slumped yet again on one of the chicken feed display eccentric, looking very pale. He opened his optic and started slowly dragging his rag along the field glass with his eyes drooping.

`` Why do n't you lay off him already ? '' lavatory shouted disgustedly. `` You know perfectly well why he 's fag. ``

Washburn got up from his professorship and started towards Saint John. Albus glanced nervously from one to the other. rose wine and Amanda both stopped polishing and were paying close attention. mat had fallen asleep on the deoxyephedrine again. `` What did you say ? '' Washburn spat once he was within two infantry of John.

John the Divine stared at him, not breaking eye contact. `` I said, why do n't you leave him alone ? You knew he 'd be tired today and you still made him do detention ! Just let him sleep and we 'll finish up the cleaning. We 're almost done anyway. ``

Washburn 's grimace turned a shade of purpleness that Albus had only seen on his Great-Uncle Vernon. He stepped skinny to John, but lav did n't bet away. `` 50 more stage from Gryffindor for talking back. And another hold, I think. Tomorrow nighttime. Lines. My office. But just you. Sleeping Beauty will be even bad tomorrow and as much as I 'd love to hand more detention to thrower, Weasley, and Tagger, they have n't done anything. This was all you. Go on, get out of here ! '' He shouted stormed out of the room.

Albus stared in shock as he left. He glanced around at John, who was still glaring at the door, his face as red with anger as Rose 's fuzz. `` C'mon, let 's go, '' he said quietly as he prodded Matt awake.

`` Huh ? '' matt mumbled.

`` Detention 's over, '' Albus told him as he walked towards the door.

`` Oh, ok, '' flatness yawned and followed the rest of them out of the door.

`` He 's kept us past curfew, '' pink wine commented as they made their way through the corridors.

`` Figures, '' john grunted.

`` That was brilliant, by the way, '' Albus said.

`` What was brilliant ? '' Matt asked.

`` John the Evangelist flipped out on Washburn while you were asleep, '' Albus told him.

`` What did you do ? '' Matt asked John in an astonished vocalisation. `` Why do I always miss the good poppycock ? ``

Saint John was still too furious to say much, so Albus explained. `` He told Washburn off for yelling at you. It was after Washburn woke you up that second time. And you had just fallen asleep again. John started yelling at him about how he should n't make shouted at you when he knew why you were tired and how he should n't have assigned you detention for today. ``

`` What ? ! '' Matt shouted, `` Are you mad ? What did he do to you ? ``

`` Detention tomorrow night. And fifty dollar bill points lost, '' John replied.

`` You are mad, '' matt said quietly, `` You did n't have to do that. I do n't want you getting in worry for me. ``

`` Yes, I did, '' John said, `` It 's not fair what he did. He should have made the detention over the weekend, like you suggested. He 's deliberately trying to run you down. It 's just not fair. ``

`` Yeah, well, life story 's not fair. I found that out six twelvemonth ago, '' Matt said bluntly.

`` Yeah, but it does n't signify it 's all right for people to treat you like dung, '' John replied softly.

******

By the fourth dimension John trudged back into the common room after his hold the next night, most of the rest of the Gryffindors had gone to bed. There were a few fifth years huddled up at one table, studying for their O.W.L.s, and Victoire and Amy were up talking quietly while studying for their N.E.W.T.s. Albus and his friends had managed to get the unspoilt armchairs near the fire once the fourth years occupying them had gone to bed. Rose was reading a Holy Writ while Albus and Amanda played gobstones. Matt was sound asleep in his chair.

`` How 'd it go ? '' Albus asked as lavatory collapsed in one of the chairs.

`` It was bloody pitiable, '' John groaned, `` He stared at me the all time. Had me write'I will respect my senior and not speak back'about 300 times. ``

`` Yeah, that 's what he does. I 've gotten used to it, but it drove me mad during the commencement few detention, '' Albus told him.

`` He 's an evil git, '' John growled.

`` I know, '' Albus agreed.

`` well, I do n't require to talk about him anymore. I just spent two minute with him. Anyway, what have you been up to ? '' bathroom asked.

`` Not very much. We finished all our homework a piece ago. We 've just been sitting around waiting for you, '' Albus said.

`` When did he return asleep ? '' bathroom jerked his straits towards Matt.

`` About an hour ago, '' Amanda answered.

trick sighed, `` You know, it 's almost like he expects everyone to be rude to him. ``

`` I 'm pretty sure he does, '' Albus whispered.

`` well, it 's probably because about people have, '' rosebush commented, `` I mean, most masses are n't exactly nice to, well, people like him. ''

`` I know, but he should n't just accept it. I 'm going to stick around up for him, '' John said.

`` We will, too, '' Rose agreed, `` But he 's just not used to it. ``

`` I guess, but I 'm not going to let anyone treat him badly. Especially not someone like Washburn, '' toilet replied.

`` Me neither, '' Albus said.

`` Definitely, '' Amanda replied.

`` We should probably go to bed, '' Albus said after glancing at his sentinel, `` We 've got Astronomy tomorrow. ``

Amanda groaned, `` Oh, yeah. Should be a pathetic dark. ``

`` Yours wo n't be as miserable as his will be, '' John pointed to Matt.

******

The next day went by fast for Albus. appealingness was thoroughly miserable for Albus and all his friends. John had made it onto the list of citizenry Washburn clearly disliked more than than the others. Now, the only one of Albus 's friends who was n't, was Amanda. However, Washburn did dislike her Thomas More than the early Gryffindors, just because she was friends with Albus. Washburn spent the whole class lecturing and shouting at lusterlessness whenever he fell asleep. Albus could assure that John the Divine was trying hard to behave himself whenever this happened. It did n't aid that Malfoy spent the whole social class with a self-satisfied look on his face, clearly enjoying that Washburn was shouting at Matt every five minutes.

`` iniquity git. We ought to hook a few puking pastille in his pumpkin succus, '' John muttered under his breathing time after Washburn woke Matt up for the fourth time.

`` What did you say, Brickston ? '' Washburn shouted.

`` cipher, sir, '' John answered.

`` Did n't sound like goose egg, '' Washburn growled, `` Ten dot from Gryffindor. ``

Matt wound up skipping Potions because he could n't look a secondment year with Malfoy that day. Malfoy interrogated Albus again as to where lustrelessness was, and Albus told him that Matt had left after lunch to chitchat his cat grannie.

After dinner party, Albus and his friends decided to see if matt was in the room of prerequisite. He never showed up at dinner. When they arrived in the Room, Amy was already there, trying to come alive Matt up.

`` Hey, Amy, '' Albus said quietly.

Amy turned around, `` Oh, hi, Albus. ``

`` Are you going to the hospital extension now ? '' blush wine asked.

`` Yeah, I 'll see you guy cable tomorrow, I guess, '' Matt yawned as Amy helped him out of the bed.

`` All right field, '' Albus replied.

`` Bye, '' King John, rose wine, and Amanda said quietly.

`` Bye, '' Matt winced as he followed his sister out of the room.

Albus and his acquaintance spent the sleep of the evening in the Room, working on their homework. After a few hours, in which Albus managed to get the latest Potions homework done, it was prison term for Astronomy.

Professor Polo announced that they would be finishing their March hotshot charts that night. Albus, lav, Rose, and Amanda set up their telescope and got to work.

`` This is the first full-of-the-moon Sun Myung Moon on a Wednesday, is n't it ? '' Albus whispered to rosiness after a few minutes.

`` Yeah, I think so, '' Rose said, `` I 'm just glad we do n't have this with the Slytherins.

`` Where 's your friend, matte ? '' Jackie Pierce, the Hufflepuff on Albus 's other side asked.

`` He 's visiting his sick nan, '' Albus said automatically.

`` Oh, I hope she 's well soon, '' Jackie replied.

Albus focused his telescope and marked down a few genius. He moved his telescope and pointed it towards the moon. He sighed as he thought about how something as beautiful as the moon could manipulate someone 's life as much as it controlled Matt's.

Albus managed to finish his adept chart just as the class was ending. John and rosiness were able to end theirs as well.

`` I hope he does n't charter off a whole lot of spot for not getting all the stars, '' Amanda sighed as they climbed into the portrait hole.

`` If you only forgot a couple, I do n't cerebrate you 'll loose that many decimal point, '' pink wine assured her.

Albus sat down in one of the armchairs in front of the empty open fireplace. `` Are any of you tired ? ``

John sat down following to Albus, `` No, not really. ``

rosiness and Amanda shook their heads and sat down. `` Let 's stay up. We can go see matte in the morning time, '' rosebush suggested.

`` good melodic theme, '' Albus agreed. The friends pass much of the Nox playing numerous games of chess, Exploding Snap, and Gobstones. Eventually, the sun started to rise and morning came.

`` Should we go, then ? '' John asked once they finished their game of Exploding Snap.

`` Yeah, it 's probably a estimable time, '' rosebush said. `` But maybe you should go get the map, Albus. I do n't fancy running into Filch. ``

Albus agreed and ran up to James II 's dorm. William James and the rest of the secondly year son were all sound asleep. Albus ran to James I 's torso and rummaged around in it until he found the Marauder 's Map. He left a quick bank bill to James telling him that he took the map, quickly left the room, and went back to the common room.

Albus spread the map out on the flooring and tapped it with his scepter, `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no good. ``

`` Blimey, that is brilliant !, '' John grinned as the piece of writing appeared on the map. Albus had told his friends about the map before, but he had never showed it to them.

`` Wow ! '' Amanda stared in awe at the map. `` That is awesome. ``

`` Let 's see, '' Albus scanned the map, `` Filch is still in his office. ``

`` What about Washburn ? '' John asked.

`` Hmm, '' Albus looked back at the map.

`` There he is ! '' rose wine pointed at the map, `` He 's in his office, too. ``

`` trade good, '' John said in a protruding voice, `` Oh, and there 's Madam Pomfrey. She 's walking through the Entrance Hall. ``

`` Let 's go, then, '' Albus stood up, `` mischief-making Managed. '' He stuffed the map into his robe pocket and left the room, with rosiness, John, and Amanda following.

When they arrived at the infirmary backstage, it was completely deserted. Albus and his friends settled themselves on the bed next to the one Matt usually stayed in. The doorway opened a few minute later, but it was n't madam Pomfrey who came through. It was Amy, followed by Victoire.

`` What are you doing here ? '' Amy asked when she saw Albus and the others.

`` We had Astronomy finis Nox and were n't tired, so we just stayed up and figured we 'd come see matte, '' Albus told her.

`` Oh, all right wing, '' Amy replied. She walked over to the bed where Albus and his acquaintance were sitting and Victoire followed. `` I told her, '' Amy said to Albus, `` about lustrelessness. ``

`` I still ca n't believe you kept this from me all these old age, '' Victoire said.

`` You 're not mad, are you ? '' Amy asked quietly.

`` No, of course of action not, '' Victoire assured her and sat down next to spring up on the bed. `` It just must own been so difficult to celebrate that a clandestine. ``

Amy sat down next to Victoire, `` It was. But I did n't really have a choice. My parents forbid me from telling anyone. ``

`` Well, I 'm happy you told me now. Your parents are n't going to be mad, are they ? ``

`` No, I asked them a dyad weeks ago and they said it would be all right if I told you, '' Amy answered.

`` good, '' Victoire said and turned to Albus, `` How long have you guys known ? ``

`` Since January. wellspring, Rose put the clues together in November, but we did n't know for sure until January. But we did n't talk to Matt about it until lowest month, '' Albus responded.

The mathematical group sat in secrecy for a few moment, before Victoire asked, `` When 's he coming back ? ``

`` Should be any clip, '' Amy stood up and glanced at the threshold. `` But just to let you guys bonk, he 's not going to be in any shape to peach to you. ``

`` We know, we just want to be here for him, '' John replied.

`` I honestly do n't even get it on if he 's going to want you here. He never likes anyone seeing him right after a transformation. ``

`` We do n't care what he looks like, '' John said adamantly.

`` I know you do n't, but I think he 's still afraid you 're going to desolate him. He 's never had such supportive booster before. The few booster he had went running in the other direction once they found out, '' Amy explained.

`` git, '' John muttered under his breath.

The door to the Hospital Wing opened and Albus looked up. brothel keeper Pomfrey came bustling through while using her wand to be adrift a stretcher through the door. Matt was laying upon it, covered in a midst green blanket. Amy immediately rushed over to them. `` How is he ? '' she asked anxiously.

`` Not that bad, actually, '' Madam Pomfrey replied, `` A few broken ivory and a fair bit of swing and contusion, but not as bad as preceding month. ``

`` Oh, good, '' Amy replied.

brothel keeper Pomfrey directed the stretcher towards the bed next to the one Albus and his friends were sitting on. `` What are you lot doing here ? '' she asked briskly once she noticed them.

`` We, er, just wanted to see if matt was okay, '' Albus answered nervously. He suddenly was n't sure if they should possess gone to the Hospital Wing after all.

`` He knows you know, then ? '' madam Pomfrey asked.

`` Yeah, and he explained everything last month, '' Albus told her.

`` And you know, too ? '' lady Pomfrey gestured to Victoire.

`` Yes, I do, '' Victoire answered.

Madam Pomfrey smiled, `` Good. It 's about time he had some loyal admirer. Now, I 've got to heal him up a bit and then if he 's awake, you can see him. '' She pulled the curtains closed behind her and Amy. A arcminute later, she came out, went to her office, and came back with numerous potions and bandages. Albus watched as she went back through the drapery and listened to the various healing tour she was performing.

Victoire, Albus, and his friends all sat on the bed, no one saying a word. Albus was still a bit worried about Matt 's response to them being there. He had n't thought about it before, but now he realized that Amy was justly and lusterlessness probably did n't want them to see him like this. He glanced at his friends, who were also looking a bit flighty. They did n't stimulate long to inhabit on it, though, because a little while later, ma'am Pomfrey and Amy appeared from behind the curtains.

`` He 's awake, '' Madam Pomfrey told them, `` You can see him for a few minutes, but not very long. He needs rest. ``

Albus glanced at his friends and they stood up. He walked through the mantle, with Rose, lav, and Amanda following. flatness was laying on the bed, looking thoroughly miserable. His face was covered in gash and there was a large contusion on his left impertinence. Both of his arms were heavily bandaged and he looked very tired.

`` What are you jest at doing here ? '' he asked hoarsely when he saw Albus and the others.

`` We wanted to come see you. Are you all right ? '' Albus asked.

`` I 've been better, '' Matt answered bluntly.

`` I hope you do n't mind that we came, '' rose said softly.

`` It 's all rightfield, '' matt sighed, `` I just thought you would n't make wanted to. ``

`` 'Course we do, '' Saint John the Apostle said, `` You 're our friend. ``

mat grinned tiredly at them. `` Oh, did you tell Victoire ? '' he asked Amy, who had just come back through the curtains with Victoire.

`` Yeah, I told her this dawn, '' Amy replied.

`` And it does n't bother me in the least, '' Victoire assured him. Matt yawned and smiled at her.

Madam Pomfrey came back with another steaming potion in a goblet. `` sentence for you lot to go, '' she told them, `` He needs to sleep. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus said, `` Bye, lusterlessness. Hope you feel better. ``

`` We 'll come see you tonight, '' pink wine told him.

`` Ok, have fun in class, '' Matt yawned. lav and Amanda waved as the group left. Amy and Victoire followed behind them, whispering to each other.

Albus walked to the Great antechamber for breakfast with his supporter. He was feeling quite tired after staying up the whole night. Albus was gladiolus that mat did n't look to take care them coming to see him so soon after the wide-cut moon, but he could state that Matt still was n't completely comfortable with them knowing his mystery. Albus figured that after a couple weeks or so Matt would gradually relax about it. Now, all Albus had to do was settle when to tell apart his admirer about the Hallows. He had been putting it off, but decided to guide Dumbledore 's advice and see if they knew anything about them. It was the but clue he had, and if he was going to end Washburn from getting the Hallows, he he had to use it.
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A/N : Thanks to my babe and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my early babe and my brother. Thanks also to inkheart, Moonylupin, and Mamaykay for their review !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter or any of The fib of Beedle the Bard.

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Albus did not hold a chance to ask John, Matt, and Amanda about the Hallows until after the Easter holiday. Matt spent the rest of the week in the Hospital offstage, and Albus did n't want to blab out about the Hallows there. He preferred to do it in private. The easter holiday began the day after lusterlessness left the Hospital annex. Neither Albus nor his supporter stayed at the palace over the holiday. Albus quite enjoyed the break and spent much of it playing Quidditch with James. rose and her fellowship came to persist for a few Clarence Day, but Albus did n't see the residuum of his extended home. Albus, Rose, and King James I did drop a bit of time sneaking around Grimmauld Place, looking for clues that would lead them to finding out what the Hallows were, but they did n't detect anything useful.

By the time Albus was back at Hogwarts, the nose candy had melted and it was relatively warm. April was upon them, which meant that the end of condition exam were only two months away. The teachers made sure to remind them of this during every class. Albus had not thought it potential, but they were being assigned even more homework than before. Of course, no one was feeling the insistence Thomas More than the fifth and seventh years, who were preparing for their O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s. All of them could be seen studying in the usual way and subroutine library until late at Night. A few of them were already cracking under the pressure. Albus was happy that his O.W.L.s were still four class away, but he was not looking forward to them. Even Victoire was becoming nervous about the exams and had started threatening younger student with hold if they were too loud in the common room. Usually Victoire was very level headed and not much bothered her, but she was afraid she would n't throw enough N.E.W.T.s to get her into the Healer program.

`` I am not looking forward to my O.W.L.s, '' john sighed as he watched as a fifth part year nodded off while reading her musical note.

`` Me neither, '' lusterlessness agreed.

`` You 'll be finely if you study, '' rosebush assured them.

`` That 's the part I 'm not looking forward to, '' John laughed, `` I 'm having enough trouble studying for this class 's examination. ``

`` Have you finished your Herbology ? '' Albus asked John.

`` I 'm working on it now, '' whoremaster told him.

`` I have n't even started it, '' Amanda commented. Matt was helping her finish this week 's Astronomy assignment.

`` Well, it 's not due until day after tomorrow, '' Albus told them.

`` skillful thing ! '' John shouted and threw down his quill feather, `` I need a break from all this ! ``

`` Shush ! '' Victoire came storming over to their table. She looked very commonplace. `` This is study time ! ``

`` Sorry, Victoire, '' John said, `` I 'm just sick of studying. ``

`` Just wait until seventh class ... '' Victoire muttered as she went back to the tabular array she was sharing with Amy.

`` Want to go to the way ? '' Albus whispered.

`` Yeah, let 's go, '' lusterlessness replied and got up. Albus, Rose, Amanda, and Saint John all picked up their books and followed Matt out of the common room. They walked to the Room and Matt paced three times in social movement of it. The doorway appeared and they all walked inside. The Room looked just as it did when matt told them about the night he was bit.

Albus walked inside and sat down on one of the chairs. His friends followed and they all resumed their studying, except for John, who was wandering around the Room.

`` I 've got to order you guys something, '' Albus said quietly after a few minutes. Everyone looked up from their ledger and John came over to the fire and sat down on the couch next to Matt.

`` Are you going to tell us where you disappear to with pink wine and your crony ? '' privy asked.

`` Er, yeah, you noticed that ? '' Albus asked nervously.

`` Yes, we all did, '' Amanda told him.

`` Well, I 'm going to tell you why, '' Albus said. `` I guess first I 've got to tell you that this past summertime, I thought my dad had told me everything about the frustration of Voldemort. ``

`` You mean, he did n't ? '' toilet asked.

`` No, I do n't reckon he did, '' Albus replied quietly, `` Over Noel, rosebush, James, and I, and a couple of our cousins, overheard mine and Rose 's parents whispering about something in the kitchen. They were talking about whether or not to severalize us something, something they 've been hiding from us. I do n't know what it was. I just heard them say one word, 'Hallows'. King James I, pink wine, and I researched in the program library to try and rule out what 'Hallows'were. But we did n't find anything. The only affair we had to go on was the fact that I heard the Christian Bible 'Hallows'in those Legilimency dreams I have. Someone wants to get the Hallows and steal them, whatever they are.

`` rosebush came up with the estimation that I should spill to Dumbledore 's portraiture about it. We figured that the Hallows had something to do with Voldemort 's downfall because they seem to be something just our parents know about. Since Dumbledore told my dad about the Horcruxes, we figured he 'd know something about the Hallows. So, pink wine came up with the whole idea to set off a firework in Washburn 's course of instruction in order to get me into the master 's office so I could talk to Dumbledore. ``

`` waiting, you did that on determination ? '' John asked in awe.

`` Yeah, we did, '' Rose grinned.

`` That 's, that 's brilliant, but pudding head ! '' John laughed.

`` We know, '' Albus said grimly, `` It could have gone much worsened. Anyway, Dumbledore did love about the Hallows, but he would n't tell us about them. He said it was something my dad had to tell me. But he did give me a clue. He told me to ask you about them, '' Albus said.

`` He thinks we 'd have it off what they are ? '' Amanda asked.

`` fountainhead, yeah, that 's what he said. He said to specifically ask john and lustrelessness about them, '' Albus replied.

`` He got that rightfulness, I 've never heard of Hallows before, '' Amanda responded.

`` You have n't heard of them, have you ? '' Albus turned to whoremonger and Matt.

John and mat looked at each other and then glanced at Albus. `` Well, I 've never heard of them, '' John said.

`` I have, my dad told me about them once, '' flatness commented.

`` You know what they are ? '' Albus asked in daze. He looked at rose wine. She looked as clueless as Albus did.

`` Yeah, I do, '' Matt repeated, `` Have n't you two ever heard The tale of Beedle the Bard ? ``

`` Of course, '' Albus nodded.

`` The what ? '' Amanda looked quizzically at Matt.

`` The story of Beedle the Bard, '' he repeated, `` A book of mavin faerie story. The Warlock 's Hairy tenderness, Babbity Rabbity and Her Cackling Stump, The sorcerer and the Hopping Pot, The spring of Fair Fortune- ''

`` My parents read me those when I was little. Mum 's actually got the master written matter ! '' rose interrupted excitedly.

`` Does she really ? '' Matt stared at her in awe.

`` Yeah, Dumbledore left it to her in his will, '' Rose told him. `` But what do a bunch of fairy tale have to do with 'Hallows'? ``

`` You did n't let me finish. There 's one Sir Thomas More. The Tale of the tierce Brothers, '' lusterlessness told them. `` And that has everything to do with the Hallows. ``

Albus and rosebush glanced at each former. Like Rose, Albus had been read those faggot tales when he was slight, and he remembered The taradiddle of the ternary Brothers. He remembered his aunt Hermione reading it to him from the original written matter. He had n't been able to read a intelligence of it, since it was written in rune, but he definitely remembered the narration.

`` But I do n't remember anything about any Hallows in that story, '' pink wine commented.

`` You would n't, '' matte told her, `` The story does n't mention the word Hallows, but the floor itself is about the Hallows. ``

`` That does n't score good sense, '' King John announced.

`` Could someone explain this write up, please ? '' Amanda asked with a look of muddiness on her face.

`` Sure, '' mat leaned back on the couch and gazed around the room. `` This would be comfortable if I had the leger. I have n't heard it in ages. '' Matt got up from the couch and walked over to a book ledge that was behind Albus 's president. `` Perfect ! Here 's one, '' Matt picked a book up off the shelf, walked back over to the couch and sat down.

`` 'There were once three brothers who were traveling along a lonely, winding road at gloaming, '' flatness began. He read the whole storey straight through. It was just as Albus remembered, with no mention of the word Hallows.

`` 'And then he greeted demise as an old supporter, and went with him gladly, and, as equals, they departed this life .''' lusterlessness looked up at Amanda and closed the account book. `` That 's the taradiddle. ``

Amanda stared at him, `` That 's quite a bit different than Muggle queer tarradiddle. Although I 'm still confused. ``

`` So am I. What 's that got anything to do with 'Hallows'? '' Albus asked.

`` Everything, '' Matt sighed, `` Just let me explain it. The Hallows, or the Deathly Hallows as they 're really known as, are the invisibleness Cloak, the Resurrection Stone, and the senior wand. Some people believe that the chronicle William Tell of the creation of the Deathly Hallows, but most multitude think it 's just a story.

`` My dad told me about it ages ago. He 's one of the few mass who think they actually exist. When he was jr., before he got married, he actually tried to find them. Looked in consignment of Quran all over the world, trying to trace where they might be. My Uncle manual laborer went with them, too. They kept searching even after my parents got tie. Mum went with them. He gave up his search after he and Mum wanted to start out a family unit. They never did find out anything about the Hallows that would evidence him where they were. Uncle Jack kept looking for years afterwards, but eventually settled in New York. He still thinks they 're out there, someplace, and has n't truly given up. ``

`` You mean, those three physical object actually exist ? '' Rose asked skeptically.

`` I dunno, '' matte replied, `` My dad seems to intend so. And he 's met a few early multitude who think so. ``

`` But if they do n't exist, why would my dad want to keep on me from knowing about them ? '' Albus asked quietly. Albus was not surely what to think about what matte had said about the Hallows. It was a far-fetched idea, but there was one thing Albus knew might prove their existence. His father 's invisibility Cloak. Albus had not really connected The tale of the trio blood brother to his dad 's Cloak, but now that he thought about it, the connection made sense.

`` Oh, come on, Albus, you ca n't honestly be thinking that they exist ? '' rose wine said exasperatingly.

`` We already know one of them exists ! '' Albus told her, `` What about Dad 's Invisibility Cloak ? ``

`` Your dad 's got an Invisibility Cloak ? '' Matt asked. `` Really ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus told him.

`` But that does n't mean it 's the one from the story, '' John said, `` I mean, there are dozens of invisibility Cloaks out there. One of my uncles used to bear one. But it wore out and he never got another. ``

`` Exactly !, '' Albus said excitedly, `` My dad 's Cloak is different from all other invisibleness Cloaks. It does n't bust out ! I know most Invisibility Cloaks just have a charm or something put on them and it wears off eventually. That must have been the kind your uncle had, John. But my gramps had that cloak before my dad did, and my dad still has it. It still works as effective now as it ever has. ``

`` Whoa, '' Matt stared at Albus with a flicker of hullabaloo in his eyes, `` Then that could be the Cloak from the story ! ``

`` But what about the other Hallows ? '' rose wine asked. `` I do n't reckon they exist. ``

`` They might, '' bathroom said, `` I know I 've heard of topnotch verge being passed from wizard to wizard hundred ago. ``

`` Ok, '' blush wine began, `` Say there is a 'super verge'out there, and Uncle Harry 's cloak is 'The invisibleness Cloak'. But how on earthly concern would a 'Resurrection pit'work ? ``

Albus could n't answer that, but he did think that the Deathly Hallows existed. Why else would his dad have kept all this secret ? The Deathly Hallows had something to do with Voldemort 's precipitation, and Albus was going to find out what. `` Well, if these three objects are the 'Hallows'that I heard mentioned in my dream, than someone is trying to find them, '' Albus realized.

`` That ca n't be good, '' Saint John said, `` Whoever 's been doing that Legilimency wants to continue what Voldemort was doing, right ? ``

`` Right, '' Albus confirmed, `` Do you know if anything special happens if you 've got all three Hallows ? ``

`` Dad said that if one person unites all three, they will be the Master of Death, '' matt answered.

`` overlord of Death ? '' Albus repeated, `` Well, I can imagine that Voldemort would have loved to have them, then. Especially that wand. ``

`` That 's a scary persuasion, '' can said, `` Voldemort with an unbeatable sceptre. ``

Albus silently agreed. `` Anyone evil with that wand would be shuddery. Remember that clip we spied on Washburn ? ``

flatness shuddered, `` How could I not ? That resulted in one of the worst detentions ever. ``

`` I know, and I 'm distressing about that, '' Albus said quietly. He still felt a bit shamed about causing all his friend to end up in detention with Washburn. `` But that strange wizard was yelling at Washburn because he had n't found out where something was. ``

`` And we did n't even get a line what it was he had to retrieve, '' Matt interrupted.

`` But I think I know what it is. I think that Washburn is trying to get out where the Hallows are, '' Albus told them.

`` What ? ! '' whoremonger shouted, `` I know he 's horrible, but you think he is trying to unite the Hallows and continue what Voldemort wanted to do ? ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus said.

`` I told him it was ridiculous, '' rose sighed, `` But he still thinks it 's Washburn. ``

`` It makes sense, Rose ! '' Albus shouted.

`` It does fit, but still, he 's a instructor, '' pink wine replied.

`` So what ? He makes it clear that he hates me and King James, and you, and Matt. He 's been giving Matt a tough clip since the beginning of the twelvemonth ! And now he hates lavatory, too. ``

`` I know, but maybe he just does n't like Gryffindors. He was a Slytherin, you know, '' Rose commented.

`` Yeah, I know that. But what if he hates us because he was on Voldemort 's side ? '' Albus suggested.

`` But do you really recollect he 'd do this right wing under your dad 's scent, Albus ? I mean, come on ! Your dad 's straits Auror ! '' can argued.

Albus shrugged. He really had n't thought of that. `` Dunno. Maybe he 's just stupid ? Or maybe that bloke he was arguing with is threatening him or something and he has n't got a alternative ? ``

`` fountainhead, I suppose it could be that, but still ... '' John replied.

`` Ok, so what if it is Washburn ? '' lusterlessness said, `` What do we do about it ? ``

`` I dunno. I do n't think we have plenty proof to tell anyone, '' Albus answered. `` We 've just got to hope that he does n't come up out where the Hallows are. I only know where the Invisibility Cloak is, Dad 's got it in his office somewhere, and Washburn probably already knows where that is, if he 's the one doing the Legilimency. ``

`` All rightfulness, '' Matt replied, `` But this is mad, I never thought I 'd actually find out the Hallows existed, let alone know where they are ! Do you think you could evidence me the Cloak sometime ? ``

`` Sure, '' Albus told him, `` But please do n't secern your dad about this. Not yet. I know he 'd require to experience, but I think you ought to waitress until after my dad tells me their significance in the war. ``

`` All right wing, '' Matt sighed, `` I wo n't tell him yet. ``

`` Swear you wo n't ? ``

`` I swear, '' matt said, `` I 'll keep it secret. I 've got geezerhood of experience keeping matter secret. Do n't worry. ``

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, and my early sister and my brother. Thanks as well to XXEveryinchXX, Moonylupin, inkheart, and leezdz for their brushup !
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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Over the side by side few week, Albus thought a lot about the Hallows. He found it unvoiced to pore on his homework, and Rose would often bawl out him for not spending enough meter studying. He continued having his unknown dreaming almost every night, but he did n't think that Washburn had found out anything new about the Hallows. Washburn continued to squall at Albus during every Charms class and give him at least a hold a week. With hold, preparation, and Occlumency lessons, Albus had hardly any metre for anything else. Life at Hogwarts was just as chaotic as ever. Albus did manage to find time to tell King James I about what Matt had told him about the Hallows, but Jesse James did n't get any ideas as to where the former Hallows could be either. He did correspond with Albus that it was highly potential that Washburn was the one trying to unite them.

Before Albus knew it, examination were upon them. The night before they began was very tense. Almost all the Gryffindors were either in the common elbow room, studying, or in the library doing the like. Albus and his booster were studying at a table next to the one Victoire and Amy were at. Both the 7th class girls were extremely nervous, and Victoire insisted on out-and-out lull in the common room. Albus did not beware this, because he needed to study anyway. Their initiative exam was Charms, and Albus was particularly nervous about this exam.

`` I 'm not sure I 've passed, '' Albus groaned as he walked out of the room with pink wine, John, matt, and Amanda after the Charms exam.

`` I 'm sure I 've failed, '' Matt replied, `` Washburn was breathing down my neck during half of it. ``

`` I hate when teachers do that, '' John said.

`` Me, too, '' Amanda agreed.

`` wellspring, I think I passed, but- '' Rose started.

`` Of course you passed, '' can interrupted, `` You 've been preparing for exams since September. ``

Albus thought the relief of the exams went fairly well. He thought he at least exit Potions. Herbology and pop went extremely well, and Albus thought he got seemly soft touch in astronomy, Transfiguration of Jesus, and story of Magic. However, even though exam were over, O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s were still going on, and Victoire was still mandating a quiet common way in the evening. The Nox of their final exam, Albus and his booster decided to just go to the elbow room of Requirement and celebrate.

`` What a rest period ! '' john shouted as he flopped down onto the couch, `` No more exams until adjacent year ! ``

`` Yep, a study free summer ! '' matt grinned as he pulled a chocolate salientian out of his pocket.

`` You 've got homework, you know, '' Rose laughed.

`` I know, but I 'll save it for the hold out minute, '' matt replied, `` So, anyone got programme for the summer ? ``

`` I 'm going to Hibernia with my family unit, '' Amanda told them, `` For two weeks. I ca n't wait ! ``

`` Are you going on an airplane ? '' whoremonger asked, excitedly.

Amanda laughed, `` Yeah. ``

`` Brilliant ! '' john shouted, `` Maybe I can convince my parents to take us on an airplane. ``

`` It 's not that great, '' Matt commented. `` Are you doing anything ? ``

`` Erm, not sure enough. We usually visit all my cousins, '' John said.

`` wellspring, you 've all got to come in hitch at my house, '' Albus told them. `` rosiness and I always have a big birthday party at the burrow. ``

`` My birthday 's at the end of August and Albus 's is the end of this month, '' Rose said. `` So we always have a party together. But usually it 's just our crime syndicate. And our parents'friends and their kids. ``

`` 'Course I 'll come ! '' Saint John the Apostle smiled, `` I want to see your house and the Burrow. ``

`` My parents should let me come up. We 're not going to Ireland until the centre of August, '' Amanda answered, `` As long as they meet your parents first. ``

`` They can adjoin at King 's Cross, '' rosebush replied.

`` Can you come, Matt ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, I dunno, '' Matt said slowly, `` My parents have never let me stay put over at person 's house before. Not that anyone would has ever wanted me to stick over at their theatre before. Do you screw when it will be ? ``

Albus looked at Rose, who shrugged. `` I 'm not sure as shooting. I do n't think our parents have planned it yet. But we 'll make sure it 's not around the full Sun Myung Moon. ``

`` Then I might be able to go, '' flatness smiled.

`` Great ! '' Albus said, `` We 'll have lashings of fun ! We can play Quidditch. ``

`` I ca n't think this year is almost over, '' rose began.

`` Yeah, I mean, a year ago, I did n't even know I was a beldam, '' Amanda laughed, `` Going to be strange to go back habitation. ``

`` And conclusion year, I never even knew about the Hallows, and now Washburn 's trying to steal them, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Well, at least over the summer you wo n't be anywhere near Washburn, '' rose wine said, `` And maybe Uncle Harry will tell us the unanimous narrative. ``

`` And then you can tell it to us ! '' John replied. `` And to stay on topic, this clip utmost year, I was about the Lapplander as I am now. '' Everyone laughed.

`` Well, this time last class, I did n't give any friends, '' mat said quietly.

`` But you do now, '' John the Divine pointed out.

Matt grinned, `` Yeah, I do. Never thought I would, though. It 's been a peachy year. ``

`` I have n't showed you the piranha 's Map, have I ? '' Albus asked Matt.

`` No, I do n't conceive so, '' matte answered.

`` It 's bright, '' St. John grinned, `` Saw it a mates month ago. ``

`` Yeah, you were in the infirmary Wing, '' Albus remembered, `` But I 've got it now. '' Albus pulled the Map out of his robe pocket.

`` You have n't given it back to William James yet ? '' blush wine asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus laughed, `` I do n't really desire to make it back. Maybe we 'll just share it. '' Albus got up from his chair and set the Map down on the table.

`` Looks just like a regular art object of parchment, '' matt commented.

`` That 's what 's so smashing about it ! '' Albus grinned, `` Anyway, this is the map that my grandpa, Peter Pettigrew, Sirius Shirley Temple, and of course, Teddy 's dad made, when they were at Hogwarts. ``

`` Yeah, I remember you telling me that, '' flatness replied.

`` Here it is, '' Albus tapped his wand on the parchment and said, `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no near. ``

Ink cattle farm across the map while Matt stared in awe at it. `` That 's vivid ! '' He stared at the map and all the label dots milling around it. His eyes stopped on the Whomping willow tree. `` This shows the passageway to the Shrieking Shack ? '' he asked nervously.

`` Sure does, '' Albus said, `` It shows all the passageways out of the schooltime. But do n't worry, hardly anyone knows about the Map. Just us, James, my parents, pink wine 's parents, my Uncle St. George, and probably some of my cousins. But none of them, except my parents and rosiness 's parents, know how to get in the tunnel. ``

`` Do you know how to get into the burrow ? '' Matt asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus answered. Harry had told him all about the passageways, but had n't told him how to get into them. Harry had told Albus that he did n't want to deflower all the fun of discovering affair for himself.

`` commodity, '' Matt breathed a sigh of relief and went back to inspecting the map. `` Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs, '' he murmured. `` Are those, their byname ? ``

`` Yup, '' Albus confirmed, `` Moony was- ''

`` Teddy 's dad, I figured that one out, '' Matt said, `` But what about the others ? ``

`` Wormtail was Pettigrew, he was a rat in more ways than one, '' Albus said grimly, `` And Padfoot was Sirius, because he was a big shaggy dog. And Prongs was my gramps because he was a stag. ``

`` Wow, '' flatness said softly, `` This is amazing. ``

`` See ? '' Albus began, `` Moony had awe-inspiring supporter, well to the highest degree of them were, '' Albus said, thinking of Pettigrew. `` And they did n't dessert him. We wo n't dessert you. ``

`` Yeah, you 're our Moony, '' John agreed.

Matt smiled at them, `` Thanks, bozo. I know you wo n't, now. ``

The group quietly watched the map for a few minutes, noting that all the fifth and seventh year were still cooped up in the subroutine library, studying for their examination. `` Who 's that ? '' Albus pointed to a dot that was lingering near the forest.

rose wine leaned in finisher and read, `` Jarett Willinson. Never heard of him. ``

`` Willinson. Do you suppose he 's related to Quinton Willinson ? '' Albus asked.

`` Probably, '' trick said, `` But Quinton does n't birth any siblings at schooltime. ``

`` What 's that bloke doing here, then ? '' Albus wondered.

`` reckon ! '' Matt pointed at a dot that was traveling from the castle towards Jarret Willinson. `` It 's Washburn ! ``

Albus looked at the dot, and sure enough, it was Washburn. He was heading towards Jarett Willinson. `` What are they doing ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Matt answered.

`` What if they 're going to try and find the Hallows ? '' Albus asked. `` We should go see what they 're up to. ``

`` What ? ! '' matte shouted, `` lastly clip we went to see what Washburn was up to, we wound up in hold. ``

`` But what if he is trying to steal the Hallows ? If he is, then we wo n't get in trouble from him. He 'll get fired, '' Albus pointed out.

lusterlessness sighed, `` I guess. Let 's go before they leave. ``

`` Are you coming, Rose ? '' Albus asked.

`` I suppose, '' rosebush said. She looked at Amanda and the two of them stood up.

`` Let 's go, then ! '' Saint John the Apostle grinned. He was clearly excited about spying on Washburn again.

Albus and his Quaker left the room and set off towards the front doors. They saw hardly anyone on their way down the step. Peeves was lurking on the second floor corridor, but luckily he did n't notice the get-go class sneaking off.

`` Are they still there ? '' Rose whispered as they walked onto the grounds.

Albus checked the map. `` Yeah, they 're there. They must be talking or something. ``

`` You ought to pass over it clean before we meet up with them, '' blush wine suggested.

`` commodity idea, '' Albus agreed, `` rascality managed. ``

Albus walked slowly towards the boundary of the forest, where he could just give out two mask frame. The sun was setting and it was nearly drear. Once Albus was a couple feet away from the two maven, he recognized who Jarret Willinson was, and stopped abruptly.

`` Ouch ! '' Amanda shouted as she ran into Albus.

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered, and he pulled his protagonist behind a tree.

`` What is it ? '' rose asked.

`` That sorcerer ! Jarett Willinson ! He 's the bloke that was arguing with Washburn when we spied on him ! And the time I had custody and they argued in Washburn 's study. I 'm trusted of it. ``

`` That means- '' Rose replied.

`` That they 're going after the Hallows. Remember, when we spied on them, that Jarett Willinson told Washburn that he would come and they would steal the Hallows together, '' Albus said.

`` We 've got to arrest them, '' lavatory replied.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Let 's go. '' Albus walked out from behind the tree, with his friends following. They slowly approached Washburn and Jarett Willinson. They were soon close enough to discover what the two star were saying.

`` You 've discovered the location of one of the Hallows ? '' Jarett asked.

`` I believe so. Potter finally cracked. I 'd hear that his Occlumency accomplishment were abysmal, but I did n't think it would take me this long. The two child do n't know a thing about the Hallows, '' Washburn stated.

Jarett laughed, `` They will soon. Which one did you discover ? ``

`` The Resurrection gem, '' Washburn said.

`` perfective. And where is it ? ``

`` In here, '' Washburn pointed to the forest. `` But I do n't have intercourse where. ``

`` How are we supposed to find it ? ! '' Jarett shouted angrily.

`` Do n't ask me ! '' Washburn shouted back.

`` It was your job to find out where it is, '' Jarett said icily and took a step closer to Washburn. `` And you have n't found the exact place. ``

`` Sorry, but Potter did n't have it off either, '' Washburn answered nervously. `` Should n't we just start searching ? ``

`` We will, but I 've told Quinton he could come with us, and he 's not here yet, '' Jarett answered. `` And we 've got another job to do tonight, anyway. ``

`` And what is that ? '' Washburn asked.

`` Kill potter, '' Jarett said.

Albus let out a pant. They were going to pour down his dad ? But why ? Albus turned around and looked at his friends. They were all standing caudex still and wearing feel of utter fear on their faces.

`` I do n't think we 're alone anymore, '' Washburn informed Jarett and a grin appeared across his face.

Albus turned back around to face the two wizards and backed up. Jarett and Washburn turned towards Albus and started walking towards him and his friends.

`` I believe you are right-hand, '' Jarett responded, `` Mr. Potter, how nice of you to unite us. ``

`` What are we going to do with them ? '' Washburn asked while glaring at the five fist years.

`` Oh, I do n't do it, what do you think ? '' Jarett replied.

`` well, potter seems incompetent of doing the wide-eyed magic spell. The Weasley girl is a right hand know-it-all. Eckerton is asleep half the time, so I doubt he 's capable of doing often magic. Brickston does n't screw when to keep open his lip shut. And the other girl does n't seem too burnished either, '' Washburn said, `` I say we just let them give ear around and if they interfere, I 'll take care of them. '' He stared Albus in the eye, with a look of fill in loathing.

`` Very well, '' Jarett agreed, `` You know them better than I do. Now, let 's get back to patronage. ``

`` right wing. Now, why do we give birth to kill Potter ? Is n't he the one who knows where all the Hallows are ? '' Washburn asked.

`` I know that ! '' Jarett shouted, `` But he 's the one who 's got the senior baton ! And if we want it, we 've got to kill him. ``

`` Oh, right field, '' Washburn responded.

Albus watched the two champion and glanced nervously at his friends. He had no approximation what he was going to do next. Albus had been right, Washburn and this other wizard were after the Hallows. Albus heard footsteps behind him and turned around, pulling out his verge at the same time.

`` Quinton, '' Jarett said, `` You 're belatedly. ``

`` Sorry, sire, '' Quinton mumbled, `` Filch was lurking around. I had to wait for him to lead. ``

Jarett Willinson was Quinton 's dad. As Albus watched them, he only hoped that Jarett was as hopeless at dueling as his son was.

`` Put your sceptre away, Potter ! '' Washburn growled at Albus.

`` exit it out, Al, '' a voice said from behind Albus. Albus turned around and saw his dad pulling off the Invisibility Cloak. Albus let out a sigh of relief. His dad was there, everything would be okay.

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A/N : Thanks to my babe and beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks to my other sister and my brother, too. And thanks to inkheart, TheNobleHouseofPotter, XDNLxtlz99, drownzer, and Moonylupin for their reappraisal !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower

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`` Nice of you to fall in us, ceramicist, '' Jarett stepped towards Harry. `` How did you recover us ? ``

Harry drew his wand and stared at Jarett. `` Followed your son. bookman are n't supposed to be out of their rough-cut rooms after time of day. ``

`` I do n't imagine it matters what he does now, '' Jarett replied icily. `` Once we have the Hallows, we will throw might you know goose egg of. ``

`` So it 's you, '' Harry said, `` You 've been after the Hallows. And you 've been doing the Legilimency, Washburn ? ``

`` Yes, I have, '' Washburn confirmed. `` Only your sons do n't experience anything about the Hallows, so it proved pointless. You, however, provided us with a swell deal of selective information. ``

`` No, I have n't told them about the Hallows yet. But I suppose I 'll hold to after tonight, '' Harry said.

`` I do n't think you 'll have got the luck, Potter, '' Jarett growled.

`` You 've found out where the Hallows are, then ? '' Harry asked.

Washburn nodded, `` The Resurrection Stone is in the forest. I managed to break through your piteous Occlumency. The invisibility Cloak is in your manus. And you 've got the Elder Wand, we already knew that. ``

Harry held up his verge, `` I 'm afraid I do n't. ``

`` What ? ! '' Jarett shouted and looked at Harry 's scepter, `` But you had it ! That 's how you defeated Voldemort ! ``

`` Maybe so, '' Harry began, `` But I have n't got it now, have I ? ``

`` You 've got it somewhere ! '' Jarett growled. `` Enough talking ! Give me the Cloak ! ``

`` Do n't intend so, '' Harry shoved the Cloak into his air pocket and raised his baton in high spirits. `` We 'll duel if you want, but if you come with me now, you 'll cause less sentence in Azkaban. ``

`` I do n't care about Azkaban ! '' Jarett shouted. `` Crucio ! ``

`` Protego ! '' Harry shouted at the like time. A shield formed in front of Harry, protecting him, Albus, and Albus 's friends from Jarett 's spell.

Washburn and Quinton ran from behind Jarett, holding their sceptre out. Harry stepped towards Jarett and Jarett stepped closer to Harry. Albus watched them, his warmness beating fast. Jarett sent Thomas More tour towards Harry, but Harry blocked each of them. Albus smiled a little as he saw how often better at dueling his dad was than Jarett.

fountain of light-colored flew out of both Harry and Jarett 's wand, lighting up the night around them. Harry sent a piece towards Jarett and he flew back and landed on the ground. Jarett stumbled back to his understructure and sent a stunning trance at Harry.

`` Just tell me where the wand is ! '' Jarett shouted as he dodged Harry 's curse.

`` No ! '' Harry shouted back and leaped out of the way of another stunner. The two wizards continued dueling, each one sending spells and curses towards the other. Albus stared at them. He had never seen dueling like this before. Neither wizard seemed to be slowing down. Harry was noticeably faster and dodged spells more easily than Jarett, but Jarett did n't come along to be giving up anytime soon.

`` What do we do ? '' Rose whispered to Albus.

Albus turned away from the duel. `` I dunno ! '' Albus heard footsteps behind him again and turned to see Quinton standing with his wand facing Albus.

`` So, we duel again, Potter, '' Quinton smirked. `` Impedimenta ! ``

Albus dodged the spell easily, but did n't live what to do next. He had n't learned many dueling tour yet. He held his scepter up higher and watched Quinton.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Quinton shouted. Albus jumped to the face and dodged the new spell.

`` Ahh ! '' person screamed behind Albus. He turned around and saw john, Rose, and Matt standing around Amanda, who was laying unbending on the footing. The spell meant for Albus had hit Amanda square in the chest.

Quinton laughed. `` One down, four to go ! ``

`` vigil out ! '' Albus shouted to his friends. They held up their verge and stood next to Albus.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Quinton shouted again. Albus and his friends darted to one side and Quinton 's tour hit a nearby bush.

Albus regained his residue and turned to Quinton. He raised his sceptre and shouted, `` Expelliarmus ! ``

Quinton dodged the spell and smirked at Albus, `` Think that 'll work again ? Petrificus Totalus ! ``

Albus and his friends dodged the magical spell yet again. `` Do n't you know any other trance ? '' can laughed.

`` Shut it ! '' Quinton shouted, breathing heavily.

Albus whispered to rose, `` We 'll all disarm him at once. On the reckoning of three. tell apart them. '' Albus waited until rose wine had passed the Word of God on to whoremaster and matt and began to count. `` One ... ''

`` What are you doing ? '' Quinton asked nervously.

`` Two ... Three ! '' Albus shouted.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' All four first yr screamed the spell before Quinton realized what was going on. He was knocked off his ft and his wand flew out of his hired man and sailed through the air, landing near matt. Matt picked it up and stowed it in his robe.

`` Urgh, '' Quinton picked his mind up off the ground.

`` Let me get hold of it from here, '' Washburn stormed over to where Quinton was laying. `` miserable ... ''

Albus 's heart started beating even faster. He had never seen Washburn duel before. It would surely be a whole lot toilsome to disarm him than it was to disarm Quinton. Albus had no desire whatsoever to get down dueling with one of his teachers.

`` So you four, well five, if you count tagger, '' Washburn began, `` Decided to find out what I was doing. mentation that it was a good idea to meddle in my occupation ? ``

`` Er, '' Albus mumbled.

`` Do n't abnegate it, thrower ! '' Washburn shouted. `` You came here this evening ! You spied on me months ago ! ``

`` If you 're going to bolt down my dad, than it is my business enterprise ! '' Albus shouted.

`` You could see it that way, if you 'd like. But if it 's your business enterprise, and you get in the way, we 'll kill you, too, '' Washburn growled at Albus.

Albus 's venter churned with concern and he looked over to where Harry was dueling Jarett. Harry had just sent a spell at Jarett that had completely knocked him off his feet. Harry looked over to Albus while Jarett was trying to get up. `` Do n't do anything to my son, Washburn ! '' Harry shouted. `` Protego ! '' He sent a shield charm in between where Albus and Washburn were standing. `` You 'll regret it ! ``

`` I do n't think I will, putter ! '' Washburn shouted back, aimed his wand at Harry, and sent a unsounded curse towards him. Harry easily dodged it.

`` Crucio ! '' Jarett had regained his balance and was pointing his verge at Harry. Harry turned back and ran out of the way of the unforgivable torment just in prison term. He returned to his duel with Jarett, sending Thomas More jets of light at him.

`` Are you demise Eaters ? '' John asked once Washburn returned his gaze to the group of get-go years.

Washburn smirked at John. `` You still have n't learned to shut out your mouth, have you ? No, we 're not Death eater. Although Jarett 's Church Father was. He 's in Azkaban now. Albus 's bloody father captured him ! ``

`` So, what are you going to do ? If you were planning on killing us, you would 've done it by now, '' trick replied.

Washburn stepped closer to John, `` Maybe I like to trail it out. But enough of that. ceramist ! '' He looked at Albus and pointed his wand at Albus 's chest. `` I do n't suppose you know if your don has any spare wands laying around ? One that might be the Elder verge ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus whispered, `` I do n't think so. ``

`` 'Course not, '' Washburn growled, `` And you probably would n't tell me if you did. ``

`` Do n't mean so, '' Albus said.

`` Now, I think you four would be a whole lot easier to carry on with if you did n't have your baton, '' Washburn seethed. `` Expelliarmus ! '' he pointed his wand at Matt. Harry 's shield charm had worn off and disappeared bit before.

Albus looked over to where matte was. Matt collapsed to the ground when the while hit his chest of drawers, and his wand and Willinson 's wand flew through the air, landing next to Washburn. Albus darted over to where Matt was laying to see if he was ok.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted at Washburn after he realized that lusterlessness was knocked out dusty. `` What did you do to him ? ! ``

Washburn deflected the patch and picked up the two wands. `` I just disarmed him, that usually does n't knock you out unless there are multiple masses casting it. Always knew he was sapless, '' Washburn sneered.

`` Shut it ! '' trick shouted as he bent down to try and wake flatness up, `` Why do n't you ever leave him alone ? ! ``

`` Ahh, looks like you 'll be next, '' Washburn pointed his wand at John, `` Expelliarmus ! '' St. John 's wand sailed out of his hand and Washburn caught it. `` Now for the Weasley female child. Expelliarmus ! '' rosiness 's wand left her hand and landed in between Washburn and Albus.

Albus ran forward to pick up rosebush 's wand. `` I do n't think so, Potter, '' Washburn reached the wand first and picked it up. `` You 're next. Expelliarmus ! ``

Albus felt his wand leave his script and saw Washburn catch it. He glanced nervously at his friend. They were n't doing too well. No baton, and two of them were unconscious. Albus looked at Washburn, who had started pacing in a circle around them.

`` Defenseless student, '' he smirked, `` I think you 'll be much more willing to do what I say now. Time to go into the forest, we 're going on a little magpie Holman Hunt. ``

`` No, '' Albus told him, `` We 're not. ``

`` You 're not in a position to talk terms, Potter. You 'll help me find the Resurrection Harlan Fisk Stone, '' Washburn barked, `` Now, follow me ! '' Washburn started to take the air towards the woodland, but Albus did not abide by. `` Let 's go, Potter ! ``

`` We 're not going, '' Rose said, crossing her arms across her chest.

`` You 'll regret that, '' Washburn said icily. He walked back to where Albus, rose, and St. John were standing. `` Crucio ! '' he shouted at Rose.

Rose screamed and jumped to the side, just missing the curse. Washburn started sending curses towards all three of them. Albus jumped behind a Tree to avoid a hex that wound up hitting the tree. He looked over to where Harry and Jarett were dueling. As far as Albus could tell, Harry was winning. Jarett appeared to be slowing down, but Albus noticed that his dad was limping a bit as he dodged Jarett 's spells.

`` What are we going to do ? '' pink wine asked anxiously.

`` I do n't know ! '' Albus shouted back. He peeked his head out from behind the tree and saw John running towards them. Washburn pointed his scepter at John 's spinal column and hit him with a Trip hex. John the Evangelist fell forward and he landed on the priming coat with a sickening crunch. `` John ! '' Albus shouted and ran out from behind the tree.

`` Just you and the Weasley girl now, Potter, '' Washburn growled. `` Sectumsempra ! '' he shouted at Rose.

`` No ! '' Albus shouted as the curse hit one of her sleeve. She sank down onto the primer coat, screaming in pain. Albus could see blood seeping out of her robes. `` halt it ! '' Albus shouted again. Albus glanced over to his dad again. Both of the genius were slowing down. Willinson was definitely the worse off, he was leaning against a Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, trying to bear up his wand with a soften arm. `` Dad ! service ! ``

Harry turned away from his affaire d'honneur and came limping over when he heard Albus 's shout. `` Expelliarmus ! '' he shouted at Washburn, and all five wands the Charms teacher was holding sailed out of his hands. Washburn turned away from pink wine and looked at Harry. `` Do n't go near my niece, '' Harry growled at Washburn.

`` Let 's go, '' Washburn lifted Quinton onto his feet, `` You all right ? ``

`` mulct, '' Quinton grunted. The two of them took one expression at Harry and ran off into the nighttime. Albus saw them disapparate just as they left the Hogwarts grounds.

Albus glanced over to where Jarett had been moments before. He was gone. `` Are n't you going to go after them, Dad ? ``

`` Ca n't, '' Harry lifted his robe and revealed a smutty cut on his leg, `` Took all my strength to get over here and save you. '' Harry sank down onto the ground, breathing heavily. `` Are you all right ? ``

`` Yeah, I 'm fine, '' Albus sat down next to his dad and leaned up against him. `` But I want to know the whole story about the Hallows. ``

`` I know, and I will assure you, '' Harry sighed, `` After we get back to the castle. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus whispered. He looked over to where rosebush had collapsed and saw her getting up. She walked slowly over to Albus and Harry and sank down on Harry 's other side.

`` Uncle Harry ? Can we go back to the castle now ? '' she asked quietly. Her voice was shaking. She was holding one of her hands down over her arm, stopping the haemorrhage that Washburn 's nemesis had caused.

`` I think that would be a commodity idea, '' Harry replied.

`` Harry ? '' a new voice said from behind them. `` What happened ? ``

Albus, Harry, and Rose turned around. Neville was standing behind them. `` Bit of a nasty affaire d'honneur, '' Harry answered, and went on to explain the entire evening.

Neville shook his head, `` Blimey, Washburn 's always been a trivial common cold, but I 'd never have expected that. What was he after ? ``

`` I 'll explain that later, '' Harry said, while trying to digest up, `` But right now we 've got to get back to the castle. ``

`` Right, '' Neville agreed, `` gift me your manus. '' Harry extended his arm and Neville helped him up. Albus and rosebush got up after him.

Harry leaned on Neville and Neville helped him walk over to where John was laying. Neville conjured a copestone and with a picture of his wand, John was laying upon it. He did the same with Matt and Amanda. `` What happened to them ? '' Harry asked quietly.

`` lavatory got hit by a trip jinx and hit his head on a rock, Amanda got a full-body-bind curse, and Matt just got hit by Expelliarmus, '' Albus explained.

`` That 's naught ma'am Pomfrey ca n't fix, then, '' Harry replied. `` Let 's go. ``

The group slowly made their way back to the castle. It took them quite a piece. Albus was hunky-dory, except for a few cut and being completely worn out. The haemorrhage on Rose 's arm seemed to have slowed down, but it would need to be magically healed or else it would surely open up up again. Harry was walking quite slowly, and Albus could tell by the way he winced every prison term they went up the stair, that he was in a great deal of pain. Eventually, they made it up to the Hospital extension. When they got into the ward, Madam Pomfrey was already bustling around, and when she saw them get along in, she immediately descended upon them.

`` There you are, Harry ! '' the nursemaid shouted, `` I 've been trying to contact you all evening. James got into a tight duel with a duad Slytherins and he 's been unconscious ever since. '' She gestured to one of the bottom at the far end of the room and looked back at Harry. She gazed upon the group and her mouth fell open. `` What in the figure of Merlin happened to you lot ? ''

`` Quinton Willinson 's father, Jarett Willinson, tried to kill me, '' Harry said simply. `` Had quite the duel with him down near the timber. Him, along with Quinton, plus Professor Washburn. ``

Madam Pomfrey 's eyes became large with shock. `` Professor Washburn ? And where are they now ? '' she asked quietly.

`` They took off, disapparated once they left the grounds, '' Harry told her, `` I could n't take hold of them with this awful cut on my leg. ``

`` well, total on, then, '' the nurse said, `` Harry, you go in bed one, since it 's cheeseparing. Albus, bed two, and Rose, bed three. '' Madam Pomfrey gestured to the bottom and then approached the stretchers that Neville was holding up with his baton. `` And let 's see, Neville, contract them to beds four, five, and seven, since James is in bed six. ``

Neville nodded and directed the stretcher to the empty beds. Albus walked over to the second bed and lay down. He stared at the ceiling, thinking about what had happened. Washburn thought Harry had the senior verge, but Harry did n't. Where was it ? Who had it ? And why did Washburn think that Harry had it ? At least Harry said that he would tell Albus everything. It was only a thing of time before Albus knew the whole write up about the Hallows.

Madam Pomfrey came bustling over to Albus 's bed. `` Here, drink this, '' she handed him a potion. `` Dreamless sleep. '' ma'am Pomfrey turned away from Albus and strode across the way to one of her cabinets. She rummaged around inside. `` All the potter in the Hospital Wing at once, it was bound to bump sooner or later ... '' she muttered.

Albus gratefully took the potion, and a few hour later, he fell into a restful sleep.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight and my other sister and Brother. Thanks as well to XDNLxtlz99, drownzer, inkheart, Moonylupin, and MiZzPrInCeZz for their reviews !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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When Albus awoke the sun was shining into the window next to his bed. He sat up and peered at the clock on the wall. It was two o'clock. Albus looked over at Rose 's bed ; she was still asleep.

Madam Pomfrey came out from behind the curtain around one of the layer. She walked over to Albus once she noticed he was awake. `` How are you, dear ? ``

`` I 'm fine, '' Albus told her, while trying to glance at the other bottom, to see how everyone else was.

`` Are you sure ? '' Madam Pomfrey asked, `` zippo hurts ? ``

`` No, I 'm fine, '' Albus answered truthfully, `` But what about everyone else ? Where 's my dad ? ``

`` They 're all fine, too, '' Madam Pomfrey assured him, `` They 're asleep. And your dad left a few hours ago. He had to ingest care of some matter at the Ministry. He said he 'd be back later. Now, do you want something to eat ? ``

`` Sure, '' Albus said, suddenly realizing how hungry he was. brothel keeper Pomfrey left the room for a few minutes and came back with a tray filled with sandwiches and pumpkin juice. She set it down on Albus 's bedside table and Albus started eating. rosebush and James woke up a few hour later, and they joined Albus in his lunch. Jesse James immediately asked them what had happened last nighttime. Albus and rosebush explained the totally thing.

`` Blimey, '' James said quietly, once they had finished, `` I always knew Washburn was evil. ``

`` Explains why he hates us so much, '' Albus replied, `` We knew nothing about the Hallows, and he thought he 'd be able to find out where they were by reading our mind. ``

`` Guess so, '' James agreed. `` So, Dad said he 'd say us about the Hallows ? ``

`` Yeah, he did, '' Albus told him, `` I guess he will when he gets back from the Ministry. ``

John, Matt, and Amanda woke up an hour later, and Albus and Rose told them the repose of what had happened the previous night. They were all happy that Washburn, Jarett, and Quinton had n't gotten any of the Hallows, but were worried that they had gotten away. They spent much of the afternoon discussing what would happen next.

Albus was sure that, somehow, the rest of the school already knew what had happened the Nox before. They had no idea what Washburn, Quinton, and Jarett were after, but they knew about the duel that had taken lieu on the curtilage. Madam Pomfrey spent a lot of sentence keeping curious student out of the Hospital Wing, and eventually she locked the doorway. Victoire and Amy were the commencement ones to visit Albus and the others in the hospital Wing, followed by the relief of Albus 's cousins. They all wanted to know what went on, and Albus told them virtually of the story. He left out the part about the Hallows, since none of Albus 's cousin-german knew about them. Amanda, John, and matt 's parents showed up for a few 60 minutes each and were all relieved that their kids were ok.

Once evening arrived, brothel keeper Pomfrey made all of Albus 's cousins and Amy leave, and she gave Albus and the others a gravid platter of food for their dinner party. After they finished eating, Albus heard person trying to get into the room.

`` Bloody inferno, I think she locked it ! '' a voice shouted out.

`` Oh, Ron, honestly. Just belt, '' a female voice said. Albus heard a trashy whack, and ma'am Pomfrey came running out of her government agency. She flung the door open and Ron and Hermione came running in. `` prove ! '' Hermione shouted and descended upon her daughter. She wrapped Rose in a big hug. `` Are you all right ? ``

`` Yes, Mum, '' Rose hugged Hermione back. Ron sat down on the bed and wrapped his arms around rose wine as well.

`` Where 's Harry ? '' Madam Pomfrey asked, `` I thought he was coming with you ? ``

`` He was behind us, '' Ron glanced at the door.

`` I 'm here, '' Harry appeared in the doorway and limped over to Albus 's bed. He sank down on it and gave Albus a hug.

`` I told you not to walk on that leg yet, '' Madam Pomfrey scolded.

`` Did n't induce much of a alternative. I had to alert the Ministry. I 've got Aurors looking for Washburn and both Willinsons right field now, '' Harry explained.

`` goodness, '' Madam Pomfrey handed Harry a chalice of potion, `` Drink that. ''

Harry took the potion and downed it in one mouthful. `` Disgusting. ``

`` Dad ? '' Albus asked tentatively, `` Are you going to tell us about the Hallows now ? ``

Harry sighed, `` I suppose. ``

`` You 've got to let St. John the Apostle, Matt, and Amanda listen to, '' Albus insisted.

`` I know, they 've got to experience what happened, too, '' Harry agreed, `` We just need some home private. ``

`` How about the elbow room of demand ? '' Albus suggested.

`` You 've found that already ? '' Harry grinned.

`` Well, Matt showed it to us, '' Albus explained.

`` Oh, '' Harry replied, `` Well, that would be the perfective topographic point. '' Harry stood up. `` Poppy, I 've got a bit of explaining to do to the kids. ``

`` Ca n't you do it here ? '' ma'am Pomfrey asked, `` It really would be best for them all to stay here a while longer. ``

`` I promise we 'll all make out back once I 'm done, '' Harry said.

`` Really, Harry, they need rest ! '' Madam Pomfrey insisted.

`` I owe them an explanation, Poppy, '' Harry said quietly.

`` Oh, mulct ! '' madam Pomfrey threw her hands up in disgust, `` But do n't have them out too long. ``

Harry grinned. Albus got up out of the bed. James I, blush wine, John, lusterlessness, and Amanda all got up as well. They followed Harry, Ron, and Hermione to the door.

`` I 'm getting too old for this, '' Madam Pomfrey muttered as they left.

`` You 're not leaving, are you ? '' Matt asked nervously.

Madam Pomfrey smiled, `` Of course not, dear. Do n't you worry. ``

The radical made their way slowly to the seventh story. Once they reached the portrayal of Barnabas the Barmy, Harry started pacing. After a few moments, a door appeared where it had n't been previously. Harry opened it and everyone followed him inside. The room looked a lot like it did when flatness asked for it. The only obtrusive dispute was that this clock time there were more armchairs and another couch.

Harry sat down on one of the couches. Albus and James sat on either side of him. Ron, Hermione, and rosebush took the other couch, while John, mat, and Amanda took the chairs.

`` Dad, '' Albus began, `` We already know about the Hallows. ``

`` You do ? '' Harry asked.

`` Er, yeah, we know about the connection to the tale of the Three crony, and we know that the Deathly Hallows are the elder verge, Christ's Resurrection Stone, and the Invisibility Cloak. We just do n't acknowledge why you 've kept it a secret. ``

Harry sighed, `` How long have you known ? ``

`` A few calendar month now. Since April. flatness told us about them. ``

`` Really ? '' Harry looked at Matt, `` You knew about them ? ``

`` Yeah, my dad told me, '' Matt answered, `` But I was n't surely if I believed they existed or not, until Albus told me about the Cloak. ``

`` Not many people think they 're real, '' Harry replied, `` I first heard the story of the Three Brothers when I was 17. It was the year that Ron, Hermione, and I were hunting Horcruxes. When Dumbledore was killed, he left each of us something in his will. You already know that he left Hermione the master copy copy of The tarradiddle of Beedle the Bard, written completely in antediluvian runes. Ron got the Deluminator, and I got the first Snitch I ever caught.

`` Hermione decoded the runes and noticed a symbolic representation in a drawing that went with the Tale of the Three Brothers. '' Harry pulled a piece of parchment and a shaft out of his air pocket. He drew a triangle, with a circle inside it, and a short letter connecting the top of the triangle to the posterior. `` This was the symbol. We recognized it because at Bill and Fleur 's wedding, Xenophilius Lovegood was wearing it on his robes. Viktor Krum approached him about it because this symbol is also Grindelwald 's symbol. ``

`` Grindelwald, that evil mavin Dumbledore defeated ? '' Matt asked.

`` Yes, '' Harry continued, `` But at one point, Dumbledore and Grindelwald were friends- ''

`` What ? ! '' Matt shouted.

`` They were, '' Harry said. Albus already knew this part of the story, but it must have had relevancy to the Hallows, if Harry was telling it again. `` They were friends, who were obsessed with uniting the Hallows. That symbolic representation is the symbolization of the Hallows. The triangle is the Cloak, the R-2, the pit, and the line, the Elder Wand. Grindelwald and Dumbledore 's friendship fell apart after Dumbledore 's sister was killed. Eventually, Dumbledore had to face up Grindelwald and defeat him. Grindelwald had the Elder Wand, and when Dumbledore defeated him, the Wand changed its allegiance, and Dumbledore became the new professional. ``

`` Dumbledore had the senior verge ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, he did, '' Harry said, `` Now, after Hermione decoded the story, we went to see Xenophilius Lovegood, and he explained the Hallows to us. We were skeptical, but we knew that the Cloak existed. You may hold already guessed this, but Voldemort found out about the senior Wand and he wanted to get it, because he believed it would enable him to defeat me. That is why he wanted person to belt down Dumbledore. However, before Snape killed Dumbledore, Draco Malfoy disarmed him. The sceptre changed allegiance once again. You see, the Elder wand does n't change allegiance when a wizard kills the wizard it belongs to. That wizard just needs to be defeated. Defeat does n't always equal dying. Since Snape killed Dumbledore, Voldemort assumed that the scepter had shifted its allegiance to Snape, but in actuality, it belonged to Draco.

`` When we got captured and taken to the Malfoy manor house, I disarmed Draco. I defeated him. Even though he did not have the Elder sceptre in his self-will at the time, it was still his wand. But when I disarmed him, it became mine. The elderberry bush Wand had been buried with Dumbledore, but Voldemort stole it. Voldemort assumed that the baton had allegiance to Snape, so Voldemort used his snake to drink down Snape.

`` After Snape died, I viewed his memories in the Pensieve, and found out that I was a Horcrux and I would have to die in order for Voldemort to die. As I was walking into the forest, I tried once again to spread out the stoolie that had failed to open earlier in the year. It opened, and inside was the Christ's Resurrection Stone. In the forest, Voldemort tried once again to kill me, but he only succeeded in killing the Horcrux inside me. When I came back, Voldemort and I had one last duel. He had the senior verge, but it 's allegiance belonged to me. He tried to kill me with a baton that was mine. A sceptre will not cultivate properly against its rightful possessor. So, when we dueled, Voldemort 's killing curse bounced off my disarming spell, and hit him. ``

Albus stared at his dad, `` But what about the fact that Voldemort used your blood to come back to life ? Is n't that why you survived ? ``

`` That 's part of it, Al, '' Harry told him.

Albus did n't cognise what to say. He finally had the answers he had been looking for. This was why no one else knew about them. The Hallows did have to do with Voldemort 's downfall, a big part.

`` Where 's the elder Wand now ? '' St. James asked, `` Do you have it ? ``

`` No, '' Harry answered, `` That wand is too very much trouble. It 's back with Dumbledore. And if I die a raw last, it will take no allegiance. ``

`` Oh, '' William James replied, `` Would 've been cool, though, having an unbeatable wand. ``

`` And the I. F. Stone ? '' Albus asked, `` Is it really somewhere in the forest ? ``

`` Yes, '' Harry answered, `` And I have no estimation where. The sole Hallow I 've got is the Invisibility Cloak. ``

`` But you did unite them, the Hallows ? '' Albus asked.

`` For a little piece, yes, '' Harry said. `` I was the Master of last. ``

`` That 's what Washburn and the Willinsons wanted to do, correct ? ''

`` Yes, that was their design, '' Harry answered. `` But they did not come after. ``

`` Do you think they 'll try again ? '' Albus asked quietly.

`` Yes, Albus, they probably will, '' Harry replied, `` But I 'm hoping that they will be in Azkaban soon. There are Aurors looking for them right now. ``

`` I hope they 're caught, '' Albus said.

`` Me, too, '' Harry agreed, `` I 'll do everything I can to take sure that they are. ``

Albus sat quietly, thinking about everything his dad had said. Harry had united the Hallows, he had been the 'Master of Death'. Albus was relieved that he finally knew the whole history, but he still had more than doubt. Had his dad ever used the Christ's Resurrection Stone ? How did it wind up in the forest ? But Albus decided to ask the inquiry that had been pulling at him since he first heard 'Hallows'mention month ago. `` Dad, why did n't you tell us ? ``

Harry sighed, `` It was a fault not telling you sooner. I want you to roll in the hay that. I should have told you conclusion summertime, when I told you everything else. But at the same clip, I did n't want you to enjoin anyone about it. I wanted to wait until you were older and more mature. ``

`` So you did n't trust me ? '' Albus asked. He hated it when mass told him he was n't old enough to do something, or get it on about something.

`` Not exactly. I did n't want you to be tempted to tell masses about the Hallows. If word got out that there is an unbeatable wand out there, especially one that is on the Hogwarts yard, the result could be bad. Look at what Washburn and the two Willinsons did. And they are just three people. think if half the schooling was going after that wand ? I 'm not saying everyone would need to use the baton for evil, but if a lot of people were going after it we could have a cataclysm on our hands. The musical theme of king, whether one is going to use it for practiced or iniquity, does crazy things to people. And that is why I did n't tell you. I did n't want a lot of people to know about it. But that did n't work at all. Now, to a greater extent people than just you and James and rosebush know about it.

`` Which brings me to my adjacent point, '' Harry said in a more dangerous smell, `` None of you can say anyone anything I have told you tonight. You ca n't recount anyone that the Hallows exist, and that they are all currently residing somewhere in or around Hogwarts. A lot of people know about my Cloak, but without cognition of the Christ's Resurrection I. F. Stone or the Elder Wand, they wo n't think anything of it. ``

`` I ca n't even tell our cousins ? '' William James asked.

`` No, I 'm sorry, but you ca n't, '' Harry replied

`` I wo n't tell, '' Albus assured Harry. Rose, King John, and Amanda all nodded.

`` Wish I could tell my dad, '' mat said, `` He 'd be intimate to hear about it. ``

`` Is he interested in the Hallows ? '' Harry asked.

`` Yeah, he was. He went all over the world researching them when he was younger. Never found out where they were. Gave up after he and my mum decided to start a family, though. He still believes they exist, '' lusterlessness replied.

`` Maybe I 'll tell him, someday, '' Harry answered, `` But for now, please do n't recount him. ``

`` All right field, '' Matt agreed.

`` Well, then, I think we ought to get back to the infirmary Wing, '' Harry stood up, `` Madam Pomfrey will have my head if I keep you up much later. ``

******

Madam Pomfrey let Albus and the others leave the Hospital Wing two daylight later. Albus was quite happy about this, as he was getting bored with the hospital Wing. Albus and his friends spent much of the days following talking or playing secret plan in the mutual elbow room or on the priming coat. Shortly after they were released, O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s finished, and the commons elbow room returned to its usual noisy state. A few pupil asked Albus and his friends about what had happened with Washburn and the Willinsons, but Albus did n't tell them anything. The students'attention was soon change state towards the Quidditch final. Just as Albus and Harry had predicted a few months prior, it would be Gryffindor vs. Ravenclaw.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and my other babe and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart, smirkyhaha, and harshabc for their reviews !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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`` You 're going to be fine, James, '' Albus assured his brother at breakfast a few break of day later. Jesse James was sitting across from him, but was n't eating anything. With the exception of James, everyone else at the Gryffindor table was in senior high school spirits. test were over, and it was the last Quidditch catch of the class. The only one besides James I who was n't eating anything was Matt, and considering that the wax Sun Myung Moon was that night, it was n't surprising.

`` James, you 've got to eat something, '' Samantha Meyers had appeared behind St. James and was pouring him a glass of pumpkin juice, `` At least wassail this. '' James nodded and took the goblet, but he only drank a few sips. He glanced nervously at Albus, and then looked up at the staff table.

Albus turned and looked as well. Harry was n't there. The past few days, Harry had been away from Hogwarts more than he had been there. He had been spending a lot of time at the Ministry, organizing the hunting for Washburn and both Willinsons. `` He 'll be there, St. James. He said he would. You know he would n't lack the match for the world. ``

`` Ok, squad, let 's go ! '' Samantha stood up and beckoned her team to follow her. James followed the rest period of the team, with one last glance at the staff table. As they left, the entire Gryffindor table stood up and cheered.

A few minutes later, Albus and his friends walked down to the pitch. `` final Quidditch couple of the year, '' Albus sighed.

`` Yeah, just hope we win ! '' John shouted.

`` Leslie Townes Hope so, too. But Ravenclaw will be hard to beat. They 've got a dear squad, '' Albus replied.

`` At to the lowest degree the weather 's good, '' John pointed out, `` I do n't conceive we 've played in better precondition than this the whole year. '' John was right about that. It was warm, hardly windy at all, and there was just enough swarm cover to block out the glare from the sun.

`` I hope it 's a quick match, '' Matt yawned as they climbed into the stands.

`` It probably wo n't be, '' Albus said, `` We 're somewhat evenly matched with Ravenclaw. ``

Matt groaned, `` Maybe James will spot the canary early. ``

`` Would n't number on it, '' Albus responded, `` James told me that in order to win the Cup, we 've got to be at least 40 detail up before he catches the Snitch. Otherwise, we 'll win the match, but Ravenclaw will get the Cup. And Samantha has made it clearly she wants the Cup. It 's her only opportunity. She 's only been captain for this twelvemonth. Before her, it was teddy bear. ``

`` Maybe you should 've stayed in the castle, '' Rose said sympathetically.

`` And miss Quidditch ? '' lustrelessness stared at her like she had three heads.

pink wine sighed. `` I do n't bang what 's with you guy rope and Quidditch, '' she muttered.

`` It 's a trade good biz ! '' Amanda grinned, `` Way better than football. ``

`` Does n't take often for something to be more interesting than football, '' Saint John the Apostle laughed, `` I mean, honestly, what were the Muggles thinking ? How can a biz be exciting with one ball ? ``

Albus laughed. He had to jibe. He had been to one football match before. It was a community league, and Harry had taken him and James to see if they had been interesting in playing it. Throughout the whole match, both Albus and James had commented on how very much upright Quidditch was.

Albus watched the standpoint fill up, hoping to grab a glance of his dad. He looked at the part of the stands where the stave sat, but the buttocks adjacent to Neville that Harry usually occupied during Quidditch matches remained empty. Where was he ? The couple was about to start. He promised St. James the Apostle that he would be there.

`` Welcome, Hogwarts scholar and faculty to the Quidditch final examination ! '' Todd David Smith 's voice boomed over the crowd. `` Today 's match is between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw ! And here come the teams !

`` get-go is Ravenclaw. Captain Tyler Pike, followed by Dan Martha Jane Burk, Natalie Cable, Allie Humphrey Davy, Damien Waverly, Kate Waverly, and Zack Valentino ! '' septenary player in risque robes walked out onto the force field, with their ling over their shoulders.

`` Next we have Gryffindor ! headwaiter Samantha Meyers, followed by Ryan O'Malley, James Potter, Bradley Weasley, Fred Weasley, Sakartvelo Weasley, and heather Weasley ! '' The Gryffindor team marched onto the playing area and stopped in front of the Ravneclaws.

`` Professor Oteski steps onto the subject. Captains Meyers and superhighway shake hands, and the squad are off ! ``

Albus watched as both team soared into the air. Heather immediately took control of the Quaffle, passing it back and Forth River between Fred and Samantha. They flew down the pitch, dodging Bludgers sent by Valentino and Davies.

`` Gryffindor scores the first goal of the biz ! '' Todd shouted out, once Heather managed to get the Quaffle by Kate Waverly. `` Ravenclaw in ownership now. Waverly toss to Calamity Jane, and then back to Waverly. ``

`` Hi, Al. ``

Albus turned around at the sound of his epithet. Harry had appeared behind him and was climbing over the seats in monastic order to sit down. Albus moved over so Harry could sit in between him and Matt. `` Dad, you made it ! ``

`` 'Course I did ! I said I would, '' Harry replied as he sat down, `` Did I miss anything ? ``

`` broom just scored the foremost goal of the game, '' Albus grinned.

`` Awesome ! She 's got some arm, let me tell you. Even as a infant. I remember once, she threw one of her miniature at me. Gave me a black eye, '' Harry laughed.

`` Why are you sitting here ? '' Albus asked, `` You usually sit with the residuum of the staff. ``

`` To be honest, it 's more fun sitting here, '' Harry grinned, `` I do n't have to hold my excitement when Gryffindor scores. ``

At that here and now, Samantha scored a goal, and all the Gryffindors jumped up, screaming and hollering with joy. Harry screamed the loudest of them all.

`` See what I mean ? '' Harry grinned, `` The stave always has to hold their excitement, in order not to diddle favorites. ``

For the next time of day, the game continued with both Gryffindor and Ravenclaw scoring goal after goal. After the first base initial goals, Ravenclaw caught up quickly and tied the match. Both teams showed olympian skill, and there had still not been any glimpse of the Snitch.

`` Now, this is Quidditch, '' Harry grinned and looked at Albus. `` This could be another for the phonograph record books. ``

Albus agreed, `` Yeah, we 've just got to hope that we can somehow get 40 head ahead. ``

`` That could take a while, '' Harry said.

`` Cable of Ravenclaw has scored ! '' Lord Todd shouted, `` 110-100 Ravenclaw ! ``

`` pigeon hawk ! '' Albus shouted. Albus looked out over the slant. heather mixture was in possession of the Quaffle again. Valentino was flying directly behind her and hit a Bludger towards her head teacher. Luckily, she ducked at that very present moment and the Bludger wound up hitting Damien Waverly instead. Waverly slipped off his broom, but managed to adjudge on with one hand. He got back on the Calluna vulgaris and sent a nasty look towards Valentino. In the meantime, Heather managed to tally another goal.

It became enlighten within the next half hour of the game, that the Damien Waverly had been injured by the Bludger. His coordination was all off, and he was having job catching the Quaffle. This, of course, worked to Gryffindor 's advantage, and soon enough the score was 120-150 Gryffindor.

`` Just one to a greater extent end, '' Albus said, `` One more than and James River can trip up the snitcher. ``

`` It 'll be toilsome to keep up that 40 point lead, though, '' Harry pointed out. `` He 'll have to find the sneak soon after the end is scored. ``

`` I hope he does, '' pink wine said, `` I do n't think lusterlessness can consume much more of this. ``

Albus looked over at his ally and felt bad that he had become so absorbed in the game, that he had n't noticed how bad matte looked. matt appeared to have fallen asleep and was leaning his head on Harry 's shoulder joint. He was wincing every once and a while, much like he had been during the Gryffindor vs. Slytherin biz. Why did they always schedule Quidditch mate around the total synodic month ?

Harry nudged matt gently until he woke up, `` Wha 's going on ? '' Matt asked sleepily.

`` You fell asleep, '' Harry said gently, `` You 're welcome to lean on me, but I was n't sure if you wanted to lack the peer. ``

`` I do n't, thanks, '' flatness replied, blushing a niggling, `` It 's bad enough having Malfoy see me pass asleep in course of instruction, but during Quidditch .... ''

`` I do n't think he can see you here, '' Albus said quietly, `` He 's on the other face of the stands. ``

`` Good, '' Matt responded. `` But I still do n't need to miss the match. ``

Albus turned his attention back to the match. It seemed to be getting harder and harder for Ravenclaw to to nock goals with only two chasers. Damien Waverly was flying more erratically by the min and his teammates had farsighted since stopped trying to throw him the Quaffle. However, despite the difficulties, Ravenclaw was putting up a respectable battle. Their other two pursuer were superb.

`` Calamity Jane scores ! '' Sweeney Todd shouted out over the crowd, `` Making the musical score 130-150 Gryffindor ! C'mon, you can do it, Gryffindor ! Just two more destination and catch the sneaker ! ``

`` tinker's damn, '' Albus sighed, `` So a great deal for one more goal. ``

`` It 's all rightfield, Al, two end wo n't be unvoiced, '' Harry shifted awkwardly to turn towards his son. lusterlessness had fallen asleep on his shoulder joint again. `` Madam Pomfrey did n't even want him to go to the match, '' Harry gestured to matt. `` But I convinced her to let him. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` He did n't want to lack it, even if he is deceased during half of it. ``

`` wellspring, Madam Pomfrey worries a lot, '' Harry told him, `` Frankly, she was n't too lament on James playing, either. Said he 'd just recovered from his duel with those Slytherins and he ought to be resting. But I insisted that he could fiddle. ``

`` He seems to be doing okay, '' Albus said as he glanced out over the sales pitch. Henry James was currently circling above the residue of the players. The Ravenclaw quester, John Tyler freeway, was doing the same.

`` He is, '' Harry agreed, `` Staying out of the way, that 's the best strategy for a Seeker. ``

`` Gryffindor scores ! '' Todd exclaimed, `` Captain Meyers has scored ! ``

`` See, Al, now it 's just one more than destination, again, '' Harry said.

The game was now entering it 's 3rd hour. There was still no sign of the zodiac of the Snitch, which was good for Gryffindor, since they still needed to score one More finish before Saint James could catch it. About ten moment after Samantha scored, Heather managed to rack up as well.

`` Yes ! '' Albus jumped up in his seat and shouted out in upheaval. Now, St. James the Apostle could charm the stool pigeon.

`` As long as Gryffindor can keep on their forty point lead-in, and pick up the Snitch, they will win the Cup ! '' Todd shouted.

Albus watched as James started picking up speed and fly around the pitch, looking for the fink. But in the lag, Dan Burke was once again storming up the pitch with the Quaffle. He flew straight towards the Gryffindor goal and managed to score another goal.

`` red cent ! '' Todd shouted.

`` Language, Smith ! '' Patil shouted next to him.

`` Sorry, professor, '' Todd said, `` Now, Gryffindor must hit another end in purchase order to gather back the forty head trail. And they might be doing that now ! Fred Weasley has gained monomania of the Quaffle. He passes to Meyers and then Meyers passes it back. Fred aims the Quaffle, and scotch ! Gryffindor has the forty point lead-in again ! ``

The Gryffindors were all on their foundation now, shouting in upheaval and chanting 'Go, James, go ! All of them except flatness and Harry. Somehow, flatness was managing to sleep through everything, and Harry continued to let him lean on his berm. Luckily, no one seemed to discover, besides Albus, John, rose wine, and Amanda. They kept glancing worried smell at flatness, but eventually, they got sucked up into the emotion of the plot and watched James 's search for the Snitch.

`` And I think he 's seen it ! '' Todd screamed, `` Yes, Potter has seen the Snitch ! He 's flying directly towards the primer. Pike has noticed it as well, but he is all the way at the former end of the pitch. I do n't believe he 'll get there in prison term. No, he definitely wo n't ! ``

Albus watched as James flew closer and closer to the ground. Albus was sure he would crash into it, and watched nervously as James finally pulled out of the nose dive, just in time. He flew back up a few animal foot, holding the struggling snitch in his hand. Albus turned to his dad. `` We 've won ! We 've got the Cup ! ``

`` Gryffindor wins ! With 320 percentage point, Gryffindor has not only won the match, but they 've won the Cup as well ! felicitation, Gryffindor ! '' Todd 's voice rang out over the crowd.

`` matt, wake up ! '' can nudged his Friend awake, `` We 've won, awaken up ! ``

`` Wha'? '' Matt slowly lifted his head off Harry 's shoulder and looked at all the excitement around him. `` Oh, right. Awesome ! ``

Harry stood up, grinning, `` I 'm going to go preen King James. I 'll see you later. I 'll probably stop by the common way, for the party. ``

Albus gave his dad a hug before he left, `` All right. See you later. ``

`` Let 's get back to the common way, '' Rose suggested as she watched mat rub his head, `` We 'll see James there. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus agreed. He knew Matt had no desire to join the mob of Gryffindors currently storming the pitch.

Despite their slow walk back to the castle and up to the seventh trading floor, Albus and his acquaintance made it back to the common room before about of the other Gryffindors. In fact, the only other multitude there were a few older students Albus did n't jazz, Amy, Victoire, and someone Albus definitely did n't expect to see.

`` Teddy ! '' Albus shouted as he spotted slip sitting succeeding to Victoire on one of the couches. `` What are you doing here ? ``

`` Came to see the match. James did brilliantly ! They could n't have found a right searcher to replace me, '' he grinned, `` And came to see Vicky 's commencement exercise, of course. '' He smiled at Victoire and giggled.

`` Oh, right hand, '' Albus grinned, `` gladiolus you came ! ``

`` Yeah, it 's great to be back here, '' Teddy grinned, `` Well, I think I might go to Hogsmeade and clean up some provision for the party. ``

`` Great ! '' Albus said, `` See you in a bit. ``

`` You, too, '' Teddy stood up. He gave Victoire a quick buss and exited the common room. It was really starting to fill up now, although the team had yet to arrive.

`` Are you going to stay for the party ? '' Albus quietly asked matte.

`` I do n't recollect so, '' Matt yawned, `` Think I might take a nap. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus responded. Matt left the group and made his way through the bunch to the dormitories.

`` It 's so unfair, '' blush wine said softly as he left. Albus, John, and Amanda nodded in agreement, but no one said anything else on the subject.

The chemical group found bum at their common board and shortly after they sat down, King James and the rest of the team came into the room.

`` We 've got it ! '' Samantha Meyers was the first to burst into the elbow room, holding the Quidditch Cup above her read/write head. `` We did it ! '' She was positively beaming. The quietus of the team climbed in behind her, all of them grinning from ear to ear. The stallion common room burst into applause as soon as they were all inside.

`` Thank you, everyone ! '' Samantha shouted over the bunch, `` I just want to say a few words. '' She waited until everyone was unsounded. `` first base, I just want to thank the completely squad. We could n't have done this without any of you. We 've got a marvellous squad here, and I 'm definitely going to miss all of you future yr. I especially want to congratulate James, '' she turned to James, who was clearly basking in the glory, `` You have done an outstanding job this whole twelvemonth. Coming in as Seeker, right after shimmy Lupin, who was one of the full seeker this house has ever had. That, and being expected to live up to your dad 's repute. fountainhead, all I can say is you have lived up to that outlook. And I think you are definitely going to match slip as far as seeking skill goes- ''

`` Ah, Samantha ! '' shimmy came bursting back into the park elbow room, `` Am I missing you rambling on about my blaze on the Quidditch auction pitch ? ``

`` Actually, no, slip, '' Samantha laughed, `` I was just saying how James could dedicate you a run for your money when it comes to seeking. ``

`` Well, that 's no surprise, since it was Yours Truly who trained him, '' shimmy joked.

`` Oh, shut it, chemise ! '' Samantha replied.

`` And I get no credit at all ? '' Harry had come into the common elbow room and was standing behind Teddy.

`` Harry ! '' teddy bear turned around, smile, `` Glad you could descend to the party ! I 've just gotten back from getting supplies. ``

`` good, '' Samantha grinned, grabbing one of the bags and pulling out Butterbeers, `` Then let 's get this party started ! ``

The political party proceeded much like the one following the Gryffindor vs. Slytherin lucifer had, only even more boisterous. shift had not only bought stuff from Honeydukes, but from Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes as well. Teddy treated everyone to a display of Everlasting firework, which took the shape of Gryffindor Leo, Snitches, and broomsticks. Albus and his friends quite enjoyed it, and they also played round after round of Exploding cracking. Just like the former party, no one left for dinner. shimmy had bought enough food that no one needed to. Even Harry stayed well into the evening.

`` You know, blush wine, '' John said after what must have been their tenth game of Exploding Snap, `` I do n't remember I 've ever seen you without a record before. ``

Albus looked over at rosiness, who was indeed without any variety of book. `` Well, exams are over now, '' blush wine laughed, `` I do take a break from studying every once and a patch. ``

`` It 's just sort of shocking, '' John grinned, `` rise without a record book. ``

`` Do n't interest, '' Albus laughed, `` I guarantee you she 'll be back to studying within two weeks of going back home. ``

`` Oh, shut it, Albus, '' blush wine grinned.

`` Hey, guys, '' James was standing next to their table, his grin still as big as when he first came into the room.

`` Oh, hi, James ! '' Albus replied, `` Congratulations on the mates ! You did brilliantly. ``

`` Yeah, it was awesome ! '' trick agreed.

`` Great job ! '' Amanda said.

`` It was great !, '' rosiness said.

`` Thanks, '' James replied, `` You 're trying out succeeding year, good Albus ? ``

`` Yeah, definitely, '' Albus answered, `` But I do n't have sex if I 'll lay down it. I mean, the lone locating open will be Samantha 's. ``

`` I 'm sure you 'll bring in it, '' James River assured him, `` You 're a great pursuer. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus said quietly, his cheeks turning a bit crimson.

`` Great company, huh ? '' St. James said, `` But where 's lusterlessness ? ``

`` He, er, does n't find thoroughly. He 's in the dormitory, sleeping, '' Albus answered.

`` Oh, I hope he feels better soon. He did n't reckon too good this morning, '' James II responded, `` Well, I 'd improve get back to the team. See you later. ``

Albus waved as James left and was absorbed back into the huge crew in the way. It seemed as if every Gryffindor was in the common elbow room. With Harry and Teddy there as well, there was hardly elbow room to move. Albus kind of liked it though. He was n't a immense fan of large crowds of mass, but as long as everyone was n't focusing on him, he was ok with it. And now, the care was definitely on James and the rest of the Quidditch team. Albus glanced around the way and saw that the integral team was right at the center of affair, along with slip and Harry.

`` Oh, hi, lusterlessness, '' Rose said quietly. Albus turned his head away from the Quidditch team and saw that Matt had come down from the dormitory. He was leaning on the table and looking very tired.

`` Hi, '' he mumbled quietly, `` I 've got to go now. I 'll see you tomorrow, probably. ``

`` Yeah, tomorrow, '' Albus agreed. During the by few months, Albus and the others had started visiting Matt the day after every full Sun Myung Moon. Ever since the maiden time they had done that, matt had started getting to a greater extent and more comfortable with the idea of his friends seeing him so soon after a transformation. But Albus and the others had not visited him so early in the morning since. They now visited in the late afternoon, after classes were done for the day.

`` deprivation me to go with you ? '' John asked.

`` No, it 's ok, Amy 's going to, '' Matt replied

`` set up ? '' Amy appeared next to Matt.

`` Yeah, I guess, let 's go, '' flatness turned and started to take the air towards the portraiture maw. Amy followed closely behind.

`` Last one here, until Sep, '' Rose commented after they 'd left.

`` Wonder what it 's like at home ? '' John the Evangelist mused.

`` Dunno, but I do n't guess we should ask, '' Albus said quietly.

`` No, probably not, '' can agreed.

Albus and his friends stayed up late into the night, playing games of chess and Exploding Snap. Harry spent most of the evening in the plebeian room, but he left around 9 pm. However, the party continued well into the wee time of day of the morning. It probably would cause lasted much longer, but Neville came in around 1 am, and told them they had to go to bed. Apparently, the haphazardness had carried into early theatrical role of the castling and some of the other professors wanted to get some eternal rest. After Neville left, Albus dragged himself up to his student residence. He was completely exhausted from staying up so former and fell asleep the bit his head hit the pillow.

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A/N : Thanks to my Sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my other sister and my brother. Thanks also to BKL8008, inkheart, Moonylupin, and XDNLxtlz99 for their reviews ! There are only a few chapters left in this level, just to let everyone know.

Chapter 38 : commencement

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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`` May I have your tending, please, '' Professor Kendrick stood up and announced at the End of Year feast the a pair 24-hour interval later. Albus stopped talking to can and turned to face up the Headmaster.

`` Thank you, '' Kendrick continued once the Great Hall was tranquil, `` What a yr, what a year. It is hard to trust that it is now June. The class has ended with quite a shock absorber. I know that you all know by now what transpired on the undercoat this past workweek. ``

Albus glanced around at his young man students and saw that they were all turning to gaze at him. He sunk down in his seat a little bit and tried to stave off their gaze.

`` I want to reassure you all that the Aurors are looking for both Professor Washburn and Jarett Willinson, as well as Quinton Willinson. Whether this was an isolated flack, I am not sure enough. But whether there are more than attacks to do or not, I am for sure we will all suffer strong, and stand as one. Whatever is coming, we will care with it. We have dealt with evil in the past and prospect are we will apportion with it in the time to come. '' prof Kendrick paused and looked out at his scholar. Everyone had returned their gaze to him, and were no longer staring at Albus and his friends.

`` Now, onto lighter affair. I have a few promulgation, then the sign of the zodiac Cup needs awarding. First, O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. resultant will be mailed partway through the summer, as usual. Second, the graduation ceremony will conduct blank space tomorrow, at ten o'clock. And lastly, as usual, I must prompt you of the fact that using thaumaturgy is prohibited while you are not in school day over the summer.

`` And now, the House Cup. In last place, Hufflepuff with 376 peak. '' Kendrick announced. Albus clapped politely along with everyone else in the Hall. `` Next, Gryffindor with 413 points. '' Albus groaned, as did everyone else sitting at the Gryffindor tabular array. No dubiety that the many points Washburn took from all of them helped assure that they did not get the House Cup. `` In second position, with 452 full point, Slytherin. '' There was a bit more cultured applause, but none of it from the Gryffindor mesa. `` And in first situation, Ravenclaw with 563 head ! congratulations, Ravenclaw ! '' Kendrick waved his wand and the ribbon transformed from their common Hogwarts coloring material into the Ravenclaw blue.

Albus clapped his paw, while looking glumly at his plateful. Oh, well, there was always next year. At least they 'd gotten the Quidditch Cup.

`` I think that is all that needs to be announced, '' Kendrick said once the applause died down, `` And with that, savor the spread ! '' Kendrick waved his wand once again and food appeared on all the plates.

`` We 'll win it next year, '' John the Divine announced as he heaped his home high up with volaille, `` But you know what, I 'm going to miss this food over the summer .... ''

`` 'Course we 'll win it next year, '' Albus agreed, `` Washburn wo n't be here anymore to take off unfair points. ``

`` You do n't cognize who Kendrick 'll get to substitute him, though, '' Rose warned.

`` goodness point, '' Matt said as he buttered a piece of bread. He was still recovering from the full-of-the-moon lunar month and was n't that hungry. Normally, he would n't even be out of the infirmary offstage yet, but he had convinced dame Pomfrey to let him attend the feast. `` Do you know if your dad will be teaching pop again next year ? ``

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged. He had n't really thought about it before, but Harry had come to teach DADA at a moment 's observation, and maybe Kendrick really did n't let time to get anyone else. But now he 'd have the whole summer.

`` hope he does, '' lusterlessness replied, `` Otherwise, we 'll be getting two new teachers, and what are the hazard that both of them will be nice ? ``

`` Not high, '' blush wine said. `` I like having Uncle Harry Teach here. I hope he comes back. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed. John and Amanda nodded.

`` Just hope our next appeal teacher is prissy, '' Amanda said, `` Of course, it wo n't take up much, will it ? ``

`` Nope, '' pink wine replied, `` Wo n't take very much at all. ``

******

Albus awoke the future dawning with just enough clock time to arrest a quick breakfast in the Great Hall before making his way to the grounds for the graduation.

`` We 'll see you after, when we 're getting on the railroad train, '' Rose said to St. John and Amanda as she got up from the table.

`` Bye, '' John mumbled, his mouth to the full of toast.

`` wealthy person fun, '' Amanda waved.

Albus and matte waved as they followed Rose out of the room. `` Good affair it 's gay today, '' Albus commented, `` Remember chemise 's ? Last year ? ``

Rose laughed, `` Oh, yeah, how could I forget that ? ``

`` What happened ? '' Matt asked.

`` Worst thunderstorm of the whole year, '' Albus grinned, `` It 's funny looking back on it, but it was n't then. We got soaked, despite the collapsible shelter Kendrick put up. Not to note the wind, skag, and lightning. Scared Lily out of her mind. Mum had to take her into the castle partway through. ``

`` gladiola it 's not like that this year, '' mat agreed. The three of them walked onto the grounds and over towards the chairs that had been set up by the lake. hoi polloi were already milling about and finding tail. Albus spotted his parents, grandparents, aunt, uncles, and full cousin, all taking up practically half the seats.

`` There 's my mum and dad, '' mat pointed to two people sitting down near where Albus 's aunty Fleur and Uncle Bill were, `` Want to run across them ? ``

`` Sure, '' Albus said and rose nodded.

flatness started walking towards them, but once they noticed him, they came running towards the three of them and met them halfway. `` Oh, Matthew ! How are you ? Are you feeling ok ? '' A marvelous blond woman with an Australian accent enveloped Matt in a tight hug.

`` Mum ! '' Matt said, his brass turning red, `` I 'm fine ! Really, I am. ``

`` Are you sure ? You look a bit pale. Did you sleep well last night ? '' the blond adult female asked anxiously, with her implements of war still wrapped around her son.

`` I 'm sure ! I slept fine, really, '' matte assured her.

`` Julie, I think he 's o.k.. '' The man, who Albus guessed was lusterlessness 's dad, pulled the woman off of Matt. He also had an Australian stress and was tall, with graying hair.

`` Oh, all right, '' the fair sex sighed, `` I just worry. ``

`` I know, so do I, '' the man said quietly, then turned to Matt, `` How was the end of terminal figure ? ``

`` Great, really. Well, with the elision of what happened with Washburn, '' Matt told them.

`` And you wonder why I worry so much, '' the woman said to the man, `` I 'm happy everything else was o.k.. ``

`` Oh, these are my admirer, '' mat gestured to Albus and Rose, `` Well, two of them anyway. Albus ceramicist and rose Weasley. They 're both Victoire 's first cousin, like I told you in my missive. Albus, Rose, this is my mum and dad. ``

`` Pleased to meet you, '' Rose smiled and shook their hands.

`` Hi, '' Albus shook their hands after Rose.

`` Hello, dears, '' the cleaning lady gave them a warm up smile.

`` So you 're the ace who set off pyrotechnic in Professor Washburn 's class ? '' Mr. Eckerton asked.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus answered nervously.

mat 's dad just laughed, `` That sounds like something I 'd have done in school. Of path, I did pile of other stuff .... '' Mrs. Eckerton gave him a rump look. `` Not that I 'm saying you should pull prank like that, of course. You should deport yourself in school, son, '' Mr. Eckerton said quickly to Matt.

Albus stifled a laugh and noticed his own parents, followed by his Uncle Ron and aunty Hermione walking over towards him. `` Hi, Mum and Dad ! ``

blush wine grinned and greeted her parents as well, `` howdy, Mum, Dad. ``

`` Albus ! '' Ginny let go of Lily 's hand and wrapped her son in a big hug.

`` Hi, Mum, '' Albus replied and rolled his eyes and Ginny finally let him go. He looked over and saw that Rose 's parents were doing the same affair with her.

Albus gestured to flatness and his parents, `` This is our friend, matt. fountainhead, you already know him, Dad, '' Albus laughed, `` But anyway, these are his parents. And Matt, Mr. Eckerton, Mrs. Eckerton, those are my parents, and my Uncle Ron and Aunt Hermione, who are Rose 's parents. And my short Sister Lily and Rose 's trivial brother, Victor-Marie Hugo. ''

`` Nice to come across you, '' Matt 's dad stuck out his hand. `` Walter Eckerton. And my wife, Julie. '' The adult spent a few minutes exchanging deal handshake and pleasantries, while Albus and Rose introduced matt to Lily and Hugo.

`` How 'd you get those cuts ? '' Hugo asked Matt loudly, gesturing to the partially healed undercut on lustrelessness 's arm. Since the full lunation was only a couple daytime ago, they still had n't completely healed. `` Didja get 'em from that duel with Professor Washburn ? '' Hugo said excitedly, `` 'Cause that was awesome. regard I 'd been there. I woulda blasted him all the way from here to Hagrid 's Hut ! ``

`` Er, yeah, they 're from the duel, '' Matt replied quickly.

`` Wicked ! '' Victor-Marie Hugo grinned. `` Ca n't wait until I can come here. ``

`` Just another year, Hugo, '' Albus smiled at his cousin. `` But do n't weigh on getting to duel with evil instructor. I 'd rather not bear had to do that. ``

`` Me and Lily acted out the duel, did n't we, Lily ? '' Hugo told them. Lily nodded her head. Hugo continued, `` I got to be Washburn, only I won. Lily ran away. ``

`` Did not ! '' Lily shouted.

`` Did too ! '' Hugo shouted back.

`` nipper, calm down, '' Ginny said sternly.

`` Mum, can Matt hail arrest with us over the summer ? whoremonger, too, but he 's in the castle. They can come for mine and rosebush 's birthday company, '' Albus asked.

`` I do n't see why not, '' Ginny smiled, `` As long as it 's ok with his parents. ``

`` Can I go quell with Albus ? '' Matt asked his parents, `` Please ? ``

`` I do n't know ... '' Mrs. Eckerton looked worriedly at her husband.

Mr. Eckerton glanced at his married woman and replied, `` We 'll make to think about it. ``

`` Oh, come on ! Please ? '' Matt pleaded, `` I 'll be fine. Albus even said they 'd give birth the political party at, a, good clock time. ``

Harry seemed to becharm onto what the Eckertons were worried about and gave them a meaningful gaze, `` I understand your worry, but I 'm sure flatness will be o.k. if he stays with us for a few day. And we will schedule the party at a near time. ``

The Eckertons still did n't look convinced, but Matt 's dad said, `` He probably will, but I 'd still care to peach it over with Julie. We 'll get back to you, all right ? ``

`` That 's fine, '' Harry replied.

matte groaned, `` You worry too much. ``

`` Sometimes we have to worry, '' mat 's mum told him, `` You know that. ``

`` I know, '' lusterlessness sighed.

`` I think the ceremony 's starting now, '' Harry announced. `` We 'll be in touch with the details of the party. ``

`` Sounds effective, '' Mrs. Eckerton replied.

`` See you after, mat, '' Albus waved. He and rose wine followed their families to the chairwoman that were set up on the lawn. Albus sat down in between Rose and Harry and waited for the ceremony to begin.

There was a declamatory stage set up in figurehead of the chair, with a magniloquent podium embossed with the Hogwarts crest. Next to the podium was a tabular array piled with Hogwarts sheepskin. All the seventh years sat in the first few rows of chairs, dressed in their Joseph Black Hogwarts robe and a wizard 's hat.

After a few minutes, in which everyone who had been milling around and talking came and sat down, Professor Kendrick strode up to the podium and began to utter. `` Welcome, Quaker and family, to the graduation ceremony of the Hogwarts Class of 2017. I remember the first clock time these students stepped human foot into Hogwarts. Many were excited and just as many were scared and nervous. Some thought they knew all of Hogwarts 's closed book, and others hardly knew anything about the Wizarding World at all. But that did not subject. Because now, they all stand as one, equally prepared to involve on the world around them. I believe that capital affair will happen to the hoi polloi in this socio-economic class and that they will do keen things.

`` This class is a peculiar one to me. Every family at Hogwarts is exceptional, but the year I became schoolmaster was the year this class came to Hogwarts. I think that I was just as nervous as they were, if not more so. '' Kendrick paused as the consultation laughed. `` And I remember each one of their sortings. I remember Tyler motorway tripping over his own pes as he made his way to the feces. He 's certainly fall a long way from that, becoming captain of the Ravenclaw Quidditch team. I also remember Olivia Kaden 's grin as she was sorted into Hufflepuff and ran to join her sister at that tabular array. And who could forget the flashy shout of hilarity from slip lupin as Victoire Weasley was sorted into Gryffindor. ``

professor Kendrick continued his speech for another ten minutes. After he was done, each of the brain of family went up to the rostrum and gave a speech as well. Albus liked Neville 's lecture the right. He talked about how proud he was of each and every Gryffindor that was graduating that day, and what made them special. Albus found it a bit unmanageable to pay aid to Professor Patil 's speech about the Ravenclaws because she used such big Good Book that Albus hardly knew what she was saying. He assumed it all meant that prof Patil knew that all the Ravenclaws would wind up making great part to the Wizarding World in the discovery of various things. Professor polo gave a good speech about the Hufflepuffs, and then Slughorn gave one, but it did n't focus much on the Slytherins. His speech mainly consisted of listing who he had taught at Hogwarts, and how famous they are now. He spent a undecomposed share of it talking about how he had taught Harry. Albus saw his dad grimace as Slughorn mentioned what a marvelous potions brewer he had been. Albus had to stifle a laughter at that, because he knew the news report of Snape 's potions Holy Scripture and how Harry had wound up with it in his sixth year.

professor Kendrick took the podium once Slughorn had finished, `` Thank you, Professors Longbottom, Patil, Polo, and Slughorn. Now, two owing students shall talk on behalf of their form. First, Head Boy Tyler Pike. And then, head lady friend Victoire Weasley. ``

President Tyler Pike took the pulpit and began his address. It was a long-winded lecture full of more words Albus did n't read, much like professor Patil 's had been. Must be a Ravenclaw matter, he thought. Albus glanced at rosiness and noticed she was paying rhapsodic attending. Maybe she should ingest been in Ravenclaw.

Once John Tyler concluded his speech, Victoire stepped up to the podium. She waited for the crew to stop their applause for President Tyler 's spoken language and then she began. `` Wow, what a mad seven years it 's been ! '' she paused and smiled at the audience. `` I remember our low day here. I was scared, we were all scared. short first old age, lost in a sea of honest-to-goodness student, and now we 're at the top. Over the past seven years we have not only sustain an education that will serve us throughout our intact life sentence, but we have forged friendships and retentivity that will live a lifespan. Memories. In the end, that 's all we 've got. I know I speak for us all in saying that the memories we 've made here at Hogwarts are some of the safe we have. It has n't always been loose and not all the computer memory are good ones. We 've all lost the House Cup at least once in the preceding seven years, we 've lost Quidditch catch, failed tests, and had conflict with friends. But now is n't the time to lie in on those computer memory. Right now we should remember the good times. The metre we did win the house Cup, the spectacular profits in Quidditch, the examination we 've aced, and the fact that our friendships are strong enough to withstand a few rows.

`` I 'm sure as shooting we all have mixed feelings about leaving Hogwarts. I know I do. This palace has been our home away from home for the past seven years. A in force parcel of our spirit have been spent here. It will be sad to leave Hogwarts behind, but this import is what we 've been working towards ever since we stepped off the train when we were 11. Hogwarts has prepared us, not only academically, but socially, for the humankind before us. We are set up, we can go into the man and make something of ourselves. When you look out at the course of instruction behind me, do n't just appear at us as the Hogwarts Class of 2017. Look at us as the time to come Healers, Aurors, research worker, and who knows, maybe even the future tense Minister of Magic. So, in conclusion, we are gear up to face the earthly concern. Whatever it has in store for us, we will be able-bodied to read it on. Using our different talents, we as a mathematical group will be able to contract whatever the world has to bewilder at us. ''

The consultation broke out into flash hand clapping. Albus clapped along with them. He thought Victoire 's speech had been much break than Tyler 's and judging by the hand clapping, everyone else thought so, too. The applause died down as Victoire went back to her hind end and Kendrick took up the dais once again.

`` Thank you, Tyler and Victoire, '' he nodded his point in their charge, `` Now it is meter to show the diplomas. '' Kendrick waved his wand and the podium moved to the side of meat, while the table with the diploma moved to the mall of the stage. The four heads of houses got up and stood next to the mesa. Kendrick stood on the other face and picked up the first diploma. `` Katelyn Isabelle Asterly, '' he called out.

A tall, red haired Hufflepuff stood up and walked over to the headmaster. She took her diploma and shook Kendrick 's hand. Then she shook all the heads of houses'workforce and walked off the phase. She walked the short distance to the lake. Albus watched her and noticed that Hagrid was standing there. The boats they had crossed the lake on earlier in the class were sitting on the calm water.

The headmaster continued to bid off names. Albus recognized a few of them, but most of them were the great unwashed he had just seen occasionally.

`` Amy Marie Eckerton, '' Kendrick called out a unretentive while later. Albus and Rose clapped loudly as mat 's sister accepted her diploma and walked over to the growing group of seventh days near the lake.

Albus watched as Kendrick called out more figure. He recognized the two Slytherins that had hexed him earlier in the year. Neither he or Rose clapped for them. They politely clapped for everyone else. Albus also recognized the Quidditch captain, Samantha Meyers and clapped a bit louder for her.

The bunch of seventh years on the level diminished until there were only two left. `` Victoire Fleur Weasley, '' Kendrick announced. Albus and Rose clapped cheap than they had for anyone else as their cousin shook Kendrick 's hand. Albus heard Teddy whistle and yield a gimcrack shout of 'Go Victoire !'as she shook Neville 's hand. prof Patil shot him a inexorable look and he quieted down. Albus had to repress a laugh. Even after you graduate, you still have to listen to the professor, he thought.

`` Cameron black lovage Zabino, '' Kendrick called once Victoire had crossed the degree. A strapping looking Slytherin accepted his diploma and joined his class by the lake.

Kendrick waved his verge and the table disappeared. The podium moved back to the shopping mall of the stage and Kendrick stood behind it. `` In the past seven years, the students in this course of study have learned a great deal about legerdemain and liveliness in general. These skills will help them as they pursue the careers and dreams of their choosing. It is time for them to journey from Hogwarts, on the same boats they arrived her on seven years ago. The first fourth dimension they crossed this lake, they were both excited and scared about what Hogwarts had in shop for them. As they cross the lake once more, they are more confident, but still excited and a bit scared about what the universe has in fund for them. I know I speak for us all when I say I 'm sure they will do heavy matter. ''

Kendrick nodded his head towards the group of seventh twelvemonth. The students climbed into the boats and Hagrid got into the one in front. He brandished his pink umbrella and bellowed, `` Forward ! '' The boats all started moving, taking the seventh year away from Hogwarts and towards the new adventures that awaited them as adults.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my former sis, and my brother. Thanks as well to Moonylupin, ladymblack, sinwillys822, and XDNLxtlz99 for their limited review !

Also, if anyone picked up on the fact that this took topographic point in 2016/2017, whereas the Harry potter Lexicon indicates that Albus 's first twelvemonth would possess been 2017/2018, I figured out the dates differently than the vocabulary did. I used Victoire 's birthday ( May 2, 1999 ) and figured out that her 7th year would hvae been 2016/2017. I know the Lexicon figured it out differently, but I 'm sticking with my own calculations.

There 's only one chapter left ! I 'll carry it future week and then look for the sequel, which I 'll post sometime after Yuletide !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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The consultation stood up and applauded as the boat left. A few masses cheered and whistled. Albus could get a line Teddy 's cheering over everyone else 's. After a few minutes, hoi polloi started to leave.

Albus and blush wine said a quick goodbye to their household before heading off to the horseless carriages that would take them to Hogsmeade station. They got into a posture with lustrelessness and the pusher lurched forwards to drive them to the train.

`` bathroom and Amanda must already be on, '' Albus said as they walked down the corridor in the train.

`` Probably, we 're some of the live on ones on, '' rosebush pointed out. They continued to look into the compartments before they found the one that their champion were in.

`` How was the graduation ? '' John asked once the compartment door was shut once again.

`` Really unspoiled, '' rose wine said.

`` Yeah, shimmy kept shouting and whistling and professor Patil was glaring at him, '' Albus laughed.

`` And Victoire 's speech was really just, '' Matt told them, `` Much better than John Tyler Pike 's address. ``

`` I could hardly infer a Book of it, '' Albus commented.

`` I thought it was a unspoiled words, '' Rose responded, `` It was all about how the course of study needs to use their endowment and skills to foster advance the Wizarding World. ``

`` well, he could have just said that, '' Albus huffed, `` He did n't consume to make it so crashing confusing. ``

`` I got told off by him once, I could n't understand anything he was telling me, '' John laughed.

`` He 's just got a big vocabulary, '' Rose insisted, `` Anyway, the commencement exercise was really proficient. ``

`` Yeah, but it 'll be Wyrd next year when Victoire 's gone. She 's starting training to be a Healer adjacent year, '' Albus told them and turned to Matt, `` What 's Amy doing ? ``

`` She 's going to be a therapist, too, '' Matt told them, `` She 's going to work with therapist Sterling this summer, actually. She, er, wants to get involved with the discipline I 'm in and stuff. ``

`` Oh, is that the Healer who 's in mission of it ? He 's the one who Albus saw in the Hospital annexe a couple months ago ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Yeah, '' Matt told them, `` Amy 's wanted to be a Healer and work on the wolfbane Potion ever since she saw me after the full moonlight for the first sentence, '' he said quietly.

`` That 's good, '' Amanda said, `` Maybe she 'll actually find a cure. ``

`` Maybe, but probably not, '' Matt replied sullenly.

`` So, what are you doing in Ireland, Amanda ? '' Rose asked after a moment of sticky silence.

`` Mainly just sight seeing and stuff and nonsense, '' Amanda answered, `` It 's going to be really fun. I 've always wanted to go there. ``

`` There 's all form of story there, '' rose wine told her, `` There 's a bunch of wizarding villages there, too. I 'd love to go and visit them. ``

`` That would be fun, '' Amanda agreed, `` But I think we 're sticking with the Muggle stuff and nonsense. ``

`` Oh, right, '' rose wine said, `` Well, if I ever go to Ireland, you can come with me and we 'll look around all the wizarding villages. ``

`` I wish I was going to Eire over the summer, '' bathroom announced, `` We 're not doing anything. Just staying dwelling house. ``

`` Us, too, '' Albus said, `` Last twelvemonth we went to France. ``

`` That was loads of fun ! '' Rose grinned, `` I want to go back. ``

`` The funny part was watching James try and verbalise French to all the French people, '' Albus laughed. `` But this twelvemonth we 're just staying home. ``

`` We never go anywhere, '' Matt told them. `` Well, we did go see my uncle in U.S. a couple years ago. I was eight. But we have n't been back since. It 's really expensive to ride on Muggle airplanes, and we always go to Australia every Noel, '' he sighed. `` I 'd rather just visit my uncle than my grandparents. ``

`` I 've never been to U.S., '' John told him, `` What 's it like ? ``

`` Different. The Muggles drive on the wrong side of meat of the road, '' Matt said, `` But it was loading of fun when we went. I think we might be going next class. ``

`` wellspring, you can all come visit me and Rose for a fiddling while, '' Albus told them, `` We usually have our birthday company at the Burrow, but you can come stay at my business firm before it. ``

`` That would be awful ! '' John grinned, `` I 'll just Floo to your situation. ``

`` Yeah, that would forge, '' Albus agreed, `` And hopefully your parents will let you come in, matt. ``

`` I think they will, '' lusterlessness responded, `` But we 're not connected to the Floo meshwork. ``

`` You 're not ? '' Albus asked, `` Why ? ``

`` Basically, because of what happened in Commonwealth of Australia with the Ministry and everyone finding out about me. My parents just want to lay low here, and if we 're not on the web, that 's one to a lesser extent way of the Ministry tracking us down. Of course, my dad works for the Ministry, so I 'm not exactly certainly what my parents'logic is. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, `` Do you just Apparate everywhere ? ``

`` Pretty a great deal. well, I Side-Along Apparate, of course. But that works to get where we 're going. My parents will just Apparate me to your business firm, '' Matt told them.

`` That 'll work. ``

`` And you can issue forth stay at my family, '' rose wine told Amanda.

`` Ok, but I ca n't do any kind of Apparition or Floo, '' Amanda said.

`` It 's all right, my parents can repulse. We 'll come get you, '' Rose assured her.

`` Great. I ca n't wait to see your house. I bet it 's a lot different from mine. I 've never been in a wizard planetary house before, '' Amanda said.

`` So, is your whole kin going to be at the tunnel ? '' John asked.

`` Pretty much. We usually have a few company there during the summer. A few of our full cousin have summer birthdays, too, so there are a few other natal day parties. Rose and me always have a shared one, though, since we 're the same age. Samantha and lindy 's birthday is in the beginning of July, so they get a party. Fred, Thomas Bradley, and Gabriella are all born in August, like rose, so they all have political party, too. But theirs are usually at their own planetary house. Then there 's the end of summer company, that 's always at the end of August, '' Albus told him.

`` Excellent. There 'll be some awe-inspiring Quidditch match, then ! '' John grinned.

`` Oh, yeah, Quidditch can get pretty exciting during the summer, '' Albus responded, `` There 's usually so many masses that we can get a real tournament going. ``

`` That 'll be freight of fun, then. And my dad said he 'd get me a broom this year, '' John told them.

`` Great ! You can bring it with you. I 'm asking for one for my natal day, '' Albus said.

`` I 've got a broom at plate, '' matt said, `` I 'll bring it, too. ``

`` I obviously do n't have one, '' Amanda sighed, `` Maybe I can convert my parents to get me one, but I doubt it. As much as they 've grown accustomed to magic, the idea of flying still freak out them out. ``

`` It 's all right, '' Rose said, `` There are plenty of broom in our phratry, someone will let you borrow theirs. ``

`` Speaking of Quidditch, I think the Chudley Cannons are going to take a shit a material come-back next season, '' Matt grinned.

`` Ugh ! '' Albus groaned, `` You 're kidding, right ? There 's no way they could ever make a come back ! ``

`` Yeah they can ! '' lusterlessness insisted, `` And someday, they 'll realize it to the League Cup and I 'll go and defend them ! ``

`` The day the Chudley cannon make it to the league Cup is the day Gryffindors and Slytherins get along, '' John laughed.

`` You 'll see, they 'll get to the League Cup. And then they 'll win it ! '' Matt said excitedly, `` I want to go to the next one, even if the cannon are n't in it, though. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` I 've been to the World Cup once, '' Matt went on, `` When I was four. I can hardly call up it, but Amy says we had really skillful seats. It was in Commonwealth of Australia, I think it 's one of the solitary sentence it 's been there. It was the New Sjaelland Kiwis versus France. France won. ``

`` That must accept been awesome, '' Gospel According to John grinned.

`` Yeah, I 've been to steady friction match, but not the World Cup, '' Albus said.

`` wellspring, I hardly remember any of it. I mostly remember France 's celebrating afterwards, '' Matt said, `` Just like I 'll be celebrating when the shank win. ``

Everyone else groaned. The radical kept talking about Quidditch for a while, and they all agreed that they wanted to go to the next Cup. No one knew where it would be, but they wanted to go even if it was far away.

Once they 'd exhausted the theme of Quidditch, they played a brace beat of hotshot 's Bromus secalinus and Exploding Snap. Rose won all the biz of Bromus secalinus and while they each won at to the lowest degree one round of Exploding walkover, rose wine won most of them as well. When the trolley came around, they bought a bit of everything and had fun eating Bertie Botts Beans and trading Chocolate anuran cards. Albus had most of the notice by now, but he was still did n't have McGonagall.

Towards the end of the stumble, everyone quieted down a bit. Rose dug out a book and started indication, Amanda doodled on a piece of parchment, St. John and Albus started up the Quidditch discussion again, and flatness fell asleep. Albus and privy were just beginning to discuss the probability of Puddlemere United making it into the next league Cup when the compartment door opened. Victoire and Amy walked into the compartment, both sporting Brobdingnagian grins.

`` So, how 's it sense to have graduated ? '' Rose asked, putting down here book.

`` bright ! '' Victoire said, `` We 've been celebrating with everyone else, but thought we 'd come see you. What have you been up to ? ``

`` Not a lot, just talking about Quidditch, '' Albus said.

Victoire sat down adjacent to blush wine and Amy sat down next to her sleeping pal. `` Of track. That 's one thing I 'll definitely miss next year, '' Victoire sighed, `` I 've never been very good at Quidditch, but I love watching it. ``

`` You can come back to watch, '' Albus told her, `` You 've got to. I 'm going to try out for Chaser next twelvemonth and if I make it, I want you to get to the matches. ``

`` I will, at least some of them, '' Victoire assured him, `` But I 'll be pretty busy next class. Healer training is pretty intense. ``

`` You 'll be good at it, though, '' rose said, `` Both of you will be. ``

`` I hope so, '' Amy said quietly as she looked at lusterlessness, `` It 'd be great to discover a better variation of that potion .... ''

`` If anyone can do it, you can, '' Victoire told her, `` You 've always been the best at Potions in our year. I 've just barely squeaked by. I really hope I got at least an E on my N.E.W.T. If not, I ca n't turn a Healer. ``

Amy blushed, `` Well, I 'm not that not bad at it. I 'm surely you got an E on your N.E.W.T. ``

`` Where do you trail to be a Healer ? '' Amanda asked, `` Is there a university or something ? ``

`` There are some classes, of course, but it 's not like a Muggle university. And there 's less schooling than Muggle Doctor of the Church need. We do a couple long time of class and interning at St. Mungo 's, '' Amy told her.

`` Yeah, we 're going to get a compressed in Jack London sometime this summer and split the rip during the training, '' Victoire added.

`` Can I go visit you ? I want to see your flat, '' Albus asked.

Victoire laughed, `` Of class you can. ``

Amy stretched her arms and got up, `` Well, we 're almost there, so I think I 'll go get my poppycock ready. You coming, Victoire ? ``

`` Sure, we could probably get in a bit more celebrate before we 're in John Griffith Chaney, '' Victoire grinned. `` See you guys in a little patch. ``

Albus waved as his first cousin and Amy left the compartment. The residue of the journeying was uneventful. Albus played another round of Exploding Snap with John the Evangelist and Amanda and then he dozed off for a bit. The next affair he knew, John the Divine was shaking him awake when they were in London. Albus yawned and started putting all his things back in his bag. He joined the crowd of student heading out of the power train and walked onto the program with his friend.

`` There 's my parents, '' Matt pointed to the left field and Albus saw the Eckertons talking to his Uncle Bill and Aunt Fleur, `` I guess I 'll probably see you guys this summertime, if my parents let me make out. ``

`` They will, '' Albus said adamantly.

`` They 'd better, '' John laughed.

`` I hope so, '' Matt responded quietly, `` Well, I 'll let you know if I can, Albus. See you soon, I hope. ``

`` Definitely, this summer will be awful ! '' Albus grinned, `` Bye, Matt ! '' whoremaster, Rose, and Amanda all said good-by as well.

`` Bye, guys ! '' Matt waved and walked over to his parents. Albus watched as Mrs. Eckerton pulled him into a close hug. She reminded Albus a lot of his grandmother.

`` You should find your parents so they can meet ours, '' Albus told John and Amanda.

`` goodness thought, '' St. John the Apostle looked out among the gang, `` Oh, they 're over there. Hey, Mum ! Dad ! '' he shouted.

A man and woman walked over to John, the woman shaking her head and the man laughing. Three little female child followed them. `` Must you be so gimcrack, dear ? '' the woman asked.

`` Mum, what a way to recognize me after you have n't seen me in months, '' John the Divine grinned.

`` Oh, come here, Johnny Reb, '' the woman smiled and wrapped John in a hug.

`` Mum ! '' john 's brass reddened and he pulled away. `` Hi, Dad. ``

`` how-do-you-do, Gospel According to John, how was the eternal sleep of term ? ''

`` Great ! ``

`` Albus ! Rose ! '' Harry said from behind Albus.

Albus turned around, `` Hey, Dad ! Hi, Mum, Lily, Hugo, Aunt Hermione, Uncle Ron. '' Albus and Rose exchanged greetings with their parents and sib while Saint John continued to say his parents about shoal. Lily and Hugo seemed to hit it off with one of whoremaster 's sis and they were running around the platform, trying to get each former to eat the disgusting sapidity of Bertie Bott's.

Amanda had meanwhile found her parents and brought them over to the group. They both looked a bit uncomfortable among all the witches and star, but seemed to want to adjoin Albus and the others.

rosiness seemed to take charge of all the unveiling. `` Ok, Mum, Dad. These are mine and Albus 's friends, lav and Amanda. '' The next few moment were spent with all the adults shaking hands and introducing themselves. pink wine and Albus told John and Amanda 's parents about their natal day party and it seemed like both John the Evangelist and Amanda would be able-bodied to go. After a few minutes of discussing details, John, Amanda, and their fellowship said adieu to the Potters and the Weasleys and headed back into London.

`` set up to go, James ? '' Harry shouted to his sometime son who was standing a few cadence away, talking to Nathan.

`` Yeah, Dad, just a second, '' James II shouted back. He said something else to Nathan and then walked over to his family.

Albus and the rest of the Potters walked back out of the station with Rose and her kinsperson. Albus was tired from the journey dwelling and did not say much. He was thinking about the past twelvemonth. It had been nifty. trusted, the whole altercation with Washburn had been shuddery, but that was over now, and his dad was taking concern of that at the Ministry. He was felicitous he had made a few thoroughly ally and was very happy that lustrelessness trusted them with his secret. Albus was looking forward to the summer and having toilet and matt visit him at Grimmauld home, but in all honesty, he was looking forward about going back in September. He had only been at Hogwarts for a year, but it already felt like a back home to Albus.


~Fin~


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A/N : Well, there it is, the net chapter ! It 's a bittersweet mo to wind up posting this here. I 've been working on this account for over a year, and even though I finished it last Apr, I 've been editing it as I 've posted it here.

Thanks go out to my terrific beta and youngest sis, Dancer of Starlight. She 's been reading this and betaing it ever since I started writing it in September of 2007. I 've bounced ideas off of her and she tells me whether they 're good or they 're painful. My early sister and my brother have also been extremely helpful. Thanks to them as well !

Thanks as well to all my close reviewers. XDNLxtlz99, sinwillys822, Moonylupin, and ginnyweasleypotter87, you guys are awesome !

Albus 's story is far from over, though ! Be on the lookout for the continuation, Albus potter and the running They Left Behind, sometime shortly after Yuletide ! It chronicles Albus 's second year at Hogwarts and is filled with new characters and plot ! It is completely finished, so updates will be on a steady basis. I 'm currently working on the nameless story of Albus 's third year.

I 'll pass on you with that rather long bit of author 's eminence. I hope everyone has a Happy Channukkah, Merry Dec 25, and Happy former holiday !