Having spent the full day avoiding all of his admirer, Ron decided to skip dinner completely. Ignoring his rumbling breadbasket, he changed out of his school day robes and into denim and a sweatshirt before collapsing across his bed and staring angrily at the ceiling. Life wasn't fair… it was a concept he'd been confronted with over and over, he didn't understand why it continued to surprise him. He was tired of being offered the hope of felicity only to have it ripped away. OK, so maybe he'd never had a probability with Hermione… but Luna had been his, they'd been in love and either one or both of them had ruined it. But he'd wanted to pick up the musical composition after, she was the one who'd been so convinced it was over. And this year- at one point he'd thought Anapurna was just the distraction he'd needed, that he could grow closer with her and earn something of it… And then Jacinda Nicolau had walked into his life… It had seemed a miracle that she'd returned his interest in her, but then she left and spoiled, Anapurna had been taken away and was now suffering who knew what fate because he hadn't been vigilant to her and her penury as he should have been. After all, he'd agreed to begin dating her before he even knew Jacey existed, Parvati should have been his first concern.

Ron slammed his fist down on the bed, tired of feeling shamed and mad and dun. Maybe he needed a booster right now after all, soul to lecture to and help get some of this off his chest of drawers. Harry had claimed to need to listen… but that had been while he'd come to maintain Luna's honor. He didn't really feel like talking about any of this to the guy who was now in all probability sleeping with his first love.

He sat up at the sudden acuate knocking on his room access and quickly strengthened the shields around his mind, figuring Harry had somehow picked up on his thoughts and was now coming to hash things out. Taking a deep breather in preparedness, he got up and went to the doorway set up to tell whoever it was to go away… but when he opened it, no one was there.

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

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

'' Turns out my business organization does not take me as far from the palace as I had thought. I was having the opportunity to add up see you tonight and so I took it. '' She answered, suddenly having worry meeting his gaze. `` Harry has told me what happened with Annapurna and that you are sad. I am so sorry about this. ``

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

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

'' I don't want to find out it. '' He quickly shook his forefront and squeezed her hand. `` I've been over it and over it in my pass for the last two days, Parvati's parents arrived today and are staying in the castle until we find her… it's already too much right now. I don't want to have it away anymore unless you can order me exactly where she is. ``

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

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

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

'' wellspring, uh… I mean, um… ''

She laughed and put her finger to his sass, silencing his try to explicate. Then she smiled coyly, staring into his eyes before leaning in to lightly brush her lip against his. `` perfective. '' She whispered as she leaned back with her eyes closed and a balmy grin playing at the turning point of her mouth.

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

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

touch sensation confident, Ron leaned in and fully captured her mouth. His boldness was instantly rewarded as she returned the buss, wrapping her arms around his neck to push herself against him. And then the carpet was ripped out from under him as she pulled away, ending the best thing he'd ever begun to experience.

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

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

Her script lingered over his as she took it from him. `` Just commend, if you are needing to spill to someone, I am not far… If you call out to me- '' She reached out and tapped her digit against his forehead before ruffling his hair. `` -I will most in all probability hear you and if I do, I promise I will serve. ``

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

Jacey shook her straits. `` It would not be wise I think. '' She flung the cloak around herself so that only her principal remained visible. `` Until next time, I hope you think well of me. ``

'' That's the solitary way I think of you. '' He smiled, opening the door so she could walk through. Once in the hallway she pulled up the exhaust hood and once more disappeared out of his life… But this time she'd left him with the promise of a way to get through her at any time he wanted, though he wondered if she was cognizant that he wanted her around all the time.

( gaolbreak )

'' I feel like the worst defender ever. '' lupin sighed as he led the way through the woods. `` I mean I've been legally bound to ensure your well-being- '' He turned to look at Draco, `` -and Harry your parents are counting on me to help search after you, yet here we all are on a midnight stroll through the Forbidden timber to put away of a body… I can't keep James and Lily from finding out obviously, but not a word of honor of this gets back to Tonks, got it ? '' He asked very seriously.

Draco shared an amused grin with ceramicist as both boys agreed to retain Tonks in the dark. lupine led them deep into the Sir Henry Joseph Wood, letting the son handle the undertaking of floating Tristram along as the man had claimed it to be their mess to clean house up, he was simply there to see that they did it right wing. The corpse was hidden under Draco's invisibility cloak as thrower had leant his to Jacey, but the further they went, the more trouble they were having in maintaining the magical spell to keep it in the air. `` Haven't we gone far enough ? '' He asked, not wanting to have to actually expect Tristan's body.

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

Letting the corpse drop-off to the ground, he went with Potter to help gather adequate wood for the undertaking ahead of them. While they did that, lupine began making a annulus of stones around Tristan, instructing the boys to get over the vampire completely with the Mrs. Henry Wood. When they were finished, Draco wiped the effort from his forehead and removed his pelage despite the frigid temperature.

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

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

Both boys watched with a kind of twisted fascination as he bent down and moved the sticks away from Tristan's caput and pulled the lamia's sassing open while ignoring the jagged small-arm of wood still sticking out of his heart. Picking up one of the pieces of Ash next to him, Lupin turned away before solidly jamming it down Tristan's throat. `` We have to be sure to get the fire down inside him too. '' He said, quickly covering the head back up. `` And now we light it. ``

All three pointed their wands and stepped back as the muckle of wood exploded within the Oliver Stone circle. This was the lowest phase of their non-white deed of conveyance and Draco was glad that Ginny had chosen to espouse Luna's principal and stay behind. He didn't even really want to be a spectator to this, it was better that one of them have the firearm of mind to never have to live over this present moment. Tristram's pelt seemed to sizzle and almost scream as the Ash woodwind instrument burned down. lupin had of row been right about how the wood would weaken the lamia's innate defenses… but they stayed until there was zippo before them but a radiance batch of embers, just to be sure.

( BREAK )

Fred woke up to his female parent pounding on his door. Groaning in displeasure, he buried his school principal under the pillow and willed her to go away… unfortunately no one's will was as firm as Molly's. `` seminal fluid on Fred, get up ! '' She called as she continued to bang away on the door.

With a loud grunt he threw his rest away and unwillingly got out of bed. Flinging give the door, he regarded his mother warily. `` What ? '' He demanded, too tired to care about being rude.

'' And a effective morn to you too, though it's nearly dejeuner metre. '' She returned. `` You really should get to bed before dear. ``

'' I'll study on that. '' He said sarcastically as he rubbed his brass and yawned. In all silver dollar, he never would own fallen asleep if his body hadn't just given up and passed out on him sometime in the early dayspring hour. But since he had gone to sleep, he was steamed with her for ruining it. `` Was there something you wanted ? ``

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

'' Okay, I'll be right down. '' He promised, suddenly widely awake as a wave of nervous nausea washed over him. Closing the door on her, he tore open the gasbag but the note inside wasn't helpful- it was simply a request that he come to the computer storage as soon as possible. That wasn't like Lee at all, if there was a problem he wasn't afraid to complain about it in wide-cut detail.

Throwing the useless note aside, he rushed to get dressed and brush his dentition, simply running his finger through his haircloth as he hurried down the steps. Grabbing his coat and kissing his female parent goodbye, he left the menage and climbed into the waiting ministry car. It took every Panthera uncia of self-control he had not to just apparate from the backseat to the store, but not knowing what awaited him he knew it was better to come with an actual Auror.

They parked outside the Leaky Cauldron and hurried through to Diagon Alley, trying to rush without being noticeable as they made their way to the memory board. Fred was surprised to find it closed up, with the dark glasses drawn and the front doorway locked. `` Hey, come in there with me, okay ? '' Fred asked the guard, pulling out both his wand and his keys.

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

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

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

He rushed over, entering the office staff to find Lee spread out on the base and hemorrhage from a wound on his head. kneel beside him, Fred was able to see that his friend was still breathing. `` He's alive. '' He assured the guard duty who was busy searching the closet for enemies.

'' okey, apply air pressure to his wound. '' The man replied, moving to the room access. `` I'll shout for backup. ``

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

'' What are you doing here ? '' He demanded, trying his best to ignore the now dead man laying a few metrical foot away. `` And what did you do to Lee ? ``

'' I never was very good at the Imperious curse, and he fought against it the whole fourth dimension. '' She shook her chief regretfully. `` I mean I got him to write the banknote and hand it off, but he finally broke free people of my influence. I certainly didn't want to pour down one of your booster but I had to shut him up somehow. Don't worry, it's just a smutty bump on the head. ``

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

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

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

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

'' And perhaps you're just bat shit crazy. '' He replied meanly, wanting to leave alone her in no dubiety as to his vox populi of her.

'' You could be right… metre will distinguish. '' She smiled coyly. `` Don't worry, someone will occur along to clean up my jam after we leave. Come on, I'm only giving us an hr. ``

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

'' We're going to your bank vault in the bank and then I'm giving us a limit of one hour to shit for all the wearing apparel and supply we'll need to disappear… and then we'll disappear. '' She laughed.

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

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

'' What are you talking about ? What pattern did I die ? '' He asked desperately.

'' You told people about all of this… you involved Hermione Granger and so now the rule have changed. We are leaving today Fred and you will work the game correctly from now on or she will swear out the penalty. ``

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

'' Everyone must log Z's sometime. '' She sneered.

'' significance ? ``

'' I'm trusted Harry and Luna informed you of the trip to Azkaban and I'm sure they told you that they know it was Sarah working through Cho… All Sarah needs is a emplacement and an unconscious vessel that she could make do anything at all, from hurting someone else to taking a walk of life off the top of the in high spirits tower at Hogwarts. It doesn't matter how guarded Hermione granger is, she can't stay awake forever. ``

Fred glared at her as his brainiac worked overtime trying to figure a way out of this, or at secure, a way to warn Hermione and perhaps have Luna or Harry try to help protect her mind while she slept. Feeling the weight of the compact in his sac, he wondered how long it would be until he could happen the time to use it.

'' I'll assume your secrecy as begrudging banker's acceptance. '' Elanya said, offering him a falsely sweet grin. `` And before you get those bike turning too fast, I won't be giving you the chance to monish your little girlfriend or your special friends about any of this. We've view of everything and neither Harry nor Luna will be given the luck to help. '' It was almost as if she could read his mind though he knew that wasn't the case, she was simply being thorough in explaining the hopelessness of his billet. Using extreme will, Fred was able to keep from reaching in his pocket and grabbing the compact car to acquire a sense of comfort. Instead he used the fact that Luna was already helping and could therefore involve Harry to calm himself.

'' Okay. '' He finally broke his silence. `` You got me, I admit it. Let's go. ``

Elanya regarded him suspiciously. `` Just like that ? I expected a little to a greater extent resistivity. ``

'' What more do you want ? '' He cried, throwing his arms out in frustration. `` You win ! You've beaten all the combat out of me ! What am I supposed to do ? One ill-timed move on my part and it means something bad for Ron or Ginny or Hermione… so okay, I agree to the terms. Let's just go already ! ``

'' give me your wand. '' She demanded, holding out her hand. In the only minuscule act of rebelliousness he could wangle, Fred threw it at her groundwork instead. She smirked with entertainment as she bent to retrieve it, putting both verge in her purse. `` There's just one Sir Thomas More affair. '' She pulled out a unusual looking device with tons of lights and gauges.

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

'' Just relax and pedestal still. '' She ordered, waving the affair over him from his head to his feet. It suddenly started lighting up and beeping like weirdo as she moved it over his pouch. `` You have a communication device. '' She grinned.

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

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

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

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

She really had won, without giving him a way to admonish Hermione, Ron and Ginny, she had his everlasting obedience and she knew it. Reluctantly he pulled the compact from his sac and placed it on the desk. Elanya picked up the looking glass paperweight, leaving Fred to find out as she smashed the powder compact into bit. `` That's seven years bad luck. '' He said numbly.

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

　

　

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

A/N : Well, so a lot for my promise to have the character out of Hogwarts by chapter 50 J So much to distribute with here so go ahead, Read, reappraisal and Enjoy !

　

Hermione had woken with an uneasy look in the pit of her stomach. By the end of her last socio-economic class the feeling had tripled and she was now unhinged with concern, having been unable to reach Fred all day. `` Hey, are you okay ? '' Harry asked quietly as they walked back to their residence hall together.

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

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

'' Sorry. '' She loosened her detention and felt him turn his finger's breadth. They'd been at each other's side all day whenever they were in public, Harry had apparently decided to once more ease up in to her and Luna with few to no questions. Admittedly his presence at her side was the only thing to present her ease all day and she was grateful for it.

'' Something's improper. '' He pushed as they entered the common room.

'' Well- '' reverence and concern overwhelmed her and she suddenly felt the pauperization to confess everything if it would help Fred. But just as she was about to spill it all, she felt her sack develop warm and nearly collapsed in rest. `` I'll tell you about it later. '' She said quickly before rushing off to her room to be alone.

Nearly dropping the compact as she fumbled to rive it out of her air hole, she eagerly flipped it open only to have her marrow pearl painfully to her stomach. `` Hermione ? '' Lee stared back at her, though his reflection was fragmented as if the mirror had been broken. `` Oh dear, I fixed it ! '' He sighed in easement as he caught sight of her on his side.

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

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

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

'' I contacted Molly… ''

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

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

'' someone must have used a trance and wiped your memory. '' She shook her head, not knowing how to soothe him when she was so close to panicking herself.

'' Probably, it's what I figured as well. But I didn't want molly to protrude badgering and weave up having Arthur beam the whole Auror squad out. It took everything I had to convince her that Fred stopped to pick something up and would be here any minute… So then I tried for the last time of day to fix this stupid compact to see if maybe Fred went up there to see you again, but that's obviously not the case ... ''

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

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

'' I don't have time to explain now, we have to move quickly. '' Her mind was racing a million air mile a minute. `` King Arthur and Molly can't know yet… that will only facilitate the miss'plan. I need you to convince them that Fred went away for some kind of business trip for the store, tell apart them you're going with him so maybe they'll worry less. ``

'' Well, I guess I could disguise my voice and save a talking varsity letter to them pretending to be Fred. '' He suggested, always eager to get voice of their dangerous adventures just like the other boy. `` He's O.K., isn't he ? ``

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

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

'' After you find a way to get through Willem Fritz and get him there to the depot with you. We'll be needing to let the cat out of the bag to him about his niece. '' She replied darkly.

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

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

( suspension )

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

'' Is this a normal part of your homework process ? Because we may have to get down studying alone. '' Dragon teased, ignoring her dramatic art and returning to his Potions essay.

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

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

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

'' I surely hope you have better understanding. '' He laughed, getting up to resolve. He was utterly surprised to witness Drake standing there.

'' hi, sorry to break up but I'm here on schooltime business organization. As acting top dog of Slytherin House I've come to bespeak your presence in the master's office. '' drake smiled apologetically.

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

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

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

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

'' Very officious. '' Ginny approved teasingly.

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

As they walked, Draco began to experience nervous… what could they possibly want to see him about ? Had the headmaster somehow found out about Tristan ? Was Troy trying to draw up him for Parvati's disappearance ? Several idea floated around in his school principal, none of which were good. In fact, he'd never in his biography been called to up there to be given soundly news. At the gargoyle, Drake gestured for them to go up first and as they climbed onto the stair Draco squeezed Ginny's paw in tense anticipation.

Dumbledore was in the process of handing a letter off to Fawkes as they entered the federal agency and he turned to them with a grim grin. `` well, none of you ever seem to be alone anymore. howdy Draco, Ginny, why don't you both have a seat. '' He spoke informally as he tended to do when he was in private with his favored students. Dragon felt almost honored to now be considered one of them. `` Roscoe, I need you to bring professor Trelawney here as she is rather skilled at scrying. ``

'' Who are you trying to see ? '' Draco blurted out. He knew all about the attainment of scrying… it was something Narcissa had mastered and was gallant to display. In fact, he knew she had been the one to assist Lucius locate various citizenry including Julian Heath.

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

He could sense Ginny staring at him out of the recess of her eye, but Draco couldn't make his brain piece of work his mouth to organize words. `` What do you mean he's disappeared ? '' She finally asked for him.

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

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

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

So this was it, the consequence that he knew would eventually fare. He had to decide whether or not to completely turn his back on his father in order of magnitude to help oneself the mass who had so helped him. Now he had to figure out just how lots he'd changed, what his morals are from what they were, and whether he could fully make himself over and cut all draw to the two citizenry who had given him aliveness. `` I don't know. '' He said at last, sinking back down into the electric chair and feeling horribly confused.

'' I see. '' Dumbledore nodded. `` I'm aware of what I'm asking of you and how unfair it is to ask a baby to completely become on their parents. I am sorry for it and only my and Arthur's desperation drove us to settle to add up to you ... But you by no means have to respond and I assure you we won't think less of you for it. I want you to be fully aware that you have a choice here, one that shouldn't have had to be presented to you and therefore you won't be judged either way. ``

'' Won't I ? '' He asked miserably. How could they not judge him if he chose to persist silent when he could have helped ? And how could he not be judged for completely turning on his family ? There was no soft way out of this.

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

And he didn't… not with these people. Recalling his previous way of spirit, he knew Dumbledore and the others weren't aware of the truth depth of his father's evil ruthlessness. Draco had seen Lucius commit many sine without any preindication of remorse, what could he be doing out there now that he'd been outcast by the Death feeder and left on his own ? Knowing what the man was capable of when he was in control, Dragon hated to remember what he was capable of when desperate. `` okeh, give me a quill and parchment and I'll write down the locations of every condom house I know about and any early seat he might go. ``

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

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

'' And with that persuasion, I would care you to get laid how proud I am of your cover growth. '' The headmaster smiled with sad encouragement. `` But I want you to be assured that not only are you not to fault for your father's actions, no one would hold it against you if you did experience the need to asseverate some build of trueness to him as your parent. ``

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

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

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

'' I'm sure given the circumstance, Harry would concord to that. ``

'' Of course of action he would, Saint James and Lily are nothing like Lucius and Narcissa. ``

'' And Ted and Japanese andromeda are cypher like Mr. and Mrs. Dursley. '' She smiled, reminding him that he did have some folk that was worthwhile. `` And Tonks is nothing like Dudley. ``

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

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

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

'' And you'd make a very difficult audience. '' She returned. `` Quit deflecting. ``

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

'' He's not exactly father of the class. '' Ginny squeezed his arm and kissed his shoulder. `` There's no material way to be a dependable kid to a bad parent. ``

'' You don't have to assure me that. I spent years trying to yarn-dye him. '' He answered glumly.

'' And yet he never tried to impress you, never tried to express why he was desirable of your love and respect. '' She argued against his self-doubt. `` You're going to feel whatever you feel, but just don't forget- you've only turned on someone who turned on you first. He tried to stamp out you already, he doesn't deserve your shelter. ``

'' You tried to drink down me too. '' Draco pointed out, feeling the sudden irrational need to fight down his father.

'' The difference of opinion being I haven't tried since. '' She said stiffly. `` And I probably won't again… '' She added the nighttime scourge, letting him know she didn't appreciate his comment.

'' Yeah, okay it was a dolt thing to say. '' He admitted, stopping in the hall outside the common elbow room and pulling her in for a hug. `` I'm sorry, the two things were completely different situations… I just… I don't know. ``

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

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

( breach )

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'' I don't know… I've been sitting here trying and I think I strained something the go few days because my mind feels so commonplace. '' She watched Hermione's face fall and quickly turned to Harry. `` Maybe you could help me ? ``

'' Are you sure that's a good thought ? I've drained myself completely before and it doesn't feel unspoilt. '' He asked uncertainly, as disquieted as she was that she could damage herself.

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

Harry took a mysterious breathing time and let it out. `` okey, let's do this then. ``

Luna reached out to withdraw his hand as he and Hermione sat with her on the bed. Closing her eyes, she cleared her idea of everything but Fred and attempted to force the connection. She could finger Harry with her, wrapping his cognisance protectively around hers and adding his own strength, which had completely regenerated since his fight with Tristan.

Again it hit her unlike anything she'd ever experienced before, a blasting of simulacrum that came on so quickly they knocked her back with their force-out. There was no White River room, no scene playing out, nothing of any coherency or preeminence. Concentrating she slowed them down, displaying each in fiat as they swirled around her.

number one came an figure of speech of Hermione, growing larger as it zoomed toward her, focusing in on the missy's eye until they became mirrors displaying Sarah staring back at her and wearing an evil grin. Luna shivered in fear, watching as Sarah's face melted away and began showering down pearl of flesh that turned to rain…

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

An explosion of coloration burst before her eyes, blinding Luna and forcing her to look away. Blinking away the discomfort, she turned back and watched with fascinated awe as several strange, colorful flowers budded and bloomed in front of her.

The pain was blue-belly and sudden and seemed to come from deep inside her head. The next thing Luna knew, she could feel Harry shaking her as he and Hermione called out, telling her to wake up. Letting her center flutter subject, she stared up at them as they looked down at her in worry. `` What happened ? '' She asked Harry.

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

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

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

'' I think so… ''

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

'' The flowers came after, maybe they give some clue to their fix. '' Harry suggested, getting up to stream a looking glass of H2O from the mound on his actor's assistant. He came back and handed it to Luna though she hadn't mentioned how parched her throat suddenly was. But as he went back to pour a Methedrine for himself, she realized he knew because her ailments were affecting him… This wasn't good, they had to calculate out a way to observe themselves divided when necessary.

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

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

'' Let not start out comparing who did what behind each former's back, '' Hermione suggested wryly, `` I'm pretty certain I'll be the one to fall out ahead. ``

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

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

'' What's going on ? ! '' Willem's phrenetic vocalisation demanded.

Hermione gave him a legal brief version of current events up to describing the short imagination Luna just had. `` Well, what kind of peak were they ? '' Lee asked when she was finished.

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

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

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

'' Yeah, they threatened to have got Sarah do her pudden-head astral forcing out affair to invade me and make me do who knows what. '' Hermione added bitterly.

'' We won't let that come about. '' Harry assured her.

'' Oh yeah ? What, is everyone going to catch some Z's in switching to assure it doesn't ? '' She asked despondently.

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

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

Harry nodded and went to his desk to recollect the annulus. `` We can shout out them both at the Sami time. '' He said excitedly.

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

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

'' Yes. Why ? '' He demanded.

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

'' But Chester A. Arthur has Mad-eye looking after all the phonograph recording and files. '' Harry reminded her.

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

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

'' And I'll cry you after the stickup. '' He returned before they both ended the call.

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

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

'' You do look rather pale. '' Hermione agreed, leaning in to look at her better. `` Maybe we should go to another room, let you rest for a bit… ''

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

Harry seemed incertain but she made it enlighten that he wouldn't be capable to change her intellect. `` O.K., let's Leslie Townes Hope they can say us something. '' He put on the ring and closed his optic to concentrate as Hermione reached out to bung her own energy into the ring. Luna attempted to close herself off from them, not wanting her own limited store of DOE to be accidentally tapped. She could feel Harry also attempting to shield off from her and she hoped his split focus wouldn't regard his ability to use the ring.

( BREAK )

Fred watched the ocean waves clangor against the sauceboat as it sliced through the water toward the sun setting on the view. It would have been an baffle experience had he been there under unlike setting, but when he'd woken that morning he had no mind a gravy boat ride into the Atlantic Ocean was in his future tense. He sighed and leaned on the rail, debating what chances he and his friends would have if he just flung himself overboard.

'' You don't have to look so sad and defeated. '' Elanya remarked from beside him. She hadn't let him out of her peck since they'd gone to empty his bank report and move on a manic shopping spree. He hadn't chosen to speak to her since they'd secured passage on this boat. `` You could just enjoy your environs. It is quite passive out here. '' She went on, trying to goad him into conversation.

Instead he continued to dismiss her and moved further along the deck, but she followed wherever he went. `` Come on Fred… I half agreed with your plan. Castellumshire is no plaza for us, but there are plenty of small uncharted islands there that will beseem us just fine. ``

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

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

'' Now that you've completely severed my communication to my friends, how can I hope that you'll stay fresh your word and not let Sarah or your spy or anyone else hurt them ? '' He asked.

'' My password isn't good enough ? '' Elanya smiled, leaning her rachis against the railing so she could face him. He had the sudden desire to lunge forward and shove her, to make her go away beneath the waves and end this nightmare… of course he had no idea what kind of communication she had set up with her friends and he couldn't take the chance. Surely they would have planned for him attempting to get rid of her.

'' Of course it isn't. nix you've said has been true. ``

She smiled and crossed her arm. `` Of course some of it was true. I know you're well aware that the most convince Lie are rooted in honesty. ``

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

'' That I don't want to hurt anyone now that Edmund is gone. Of course I will if I have to… I'd just really rather the state of affairs didn't come up up, which is why I'm relieved that you've decided to play so nicely. '' She smiled again, this prison term with a bit of teasing coyness. `` You must really sleep together your buddy and sister… and this Hermione must be reasonably important too. ``

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

'' That I want aught to do with Voldemort or his plan to move around us immortal, and that Sarah and Elise were actually interested… not in Voldemort intellect you, but in the lamia oath. ``

'' We'll be dropping anchor in five minutes. '' One of the sauceboat's crew fellow member came over to herald. `` As you are the solely two being let off at the entrance islands, we'll row you in. Do you already have your tax return plans booked ? ``

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

'' But miss, it's mighty hard to slacken off person down if you haven't already arranged a pick up. '' The crowd member protested.

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

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

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

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

Within a half an minute, they had been rowed ashore and left all alone with the many matter she had made him buy for this lilliputian outing. `` Great, it looks like rain. '' Fred muttered as the iniquity clouds rolled in with the coming dark. Brief flashes of lighting torus through the sky as ripple of smack roared overhead.

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

( breakage )

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

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

Harry tried to think the image to him, but apparently his magnate was unable to bridge the gap between the sustenance and the dead. He, Luna and Hermione attempted to describe the demand flowers from Luna's vision. `` Does any of that sound familiar ? '' He asked when they were done.

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

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

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

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

'' Just, find a way for me to tattle to him when you help him clean up all this out OK ? '' George III insisted, clearly worried for his twin.

'' We will. '' Harry promised. They said their au revoir and the two ghostly figures of their lost booster disappeared. He went over to his desk to put the band away, already disliking the familiar puff it had on him and his energy vibrations.

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

'' I just feel a footling dizzy. I think I just need to eat something. '' She answered in a daze as she carefully got up. Even as Harry made his way over to help, he watched her attempt to take a gradation before her legs buckled, forcing Hermione to reach out and get her. He rushed over to facilitate get Luna back onto the bed, sitting beside her and running his much tank hired hand over her heated forehead.

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

'' Maybe that's a better thought. '' She replied with a faint smile.

'' I'm sorry for pushing you to suffer those vision. '' She said quietly, clearly feeling guilty for the billet Luna was now in.

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

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

'' You going to make it ? '' Harry asked gently once they were alone, smiling to cover the large amount of concern he felt.

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

'' I know the feeling. '' He sympathized, kissing her fingers. `` I just wish you hadn't let what Ron said get to you so much… many hoi polloi have warned me about pushing myself too far too riotous, yourself included. You didn't have to burn yourself out to evidence to anyone that you're ‘ useful ’. ``

'' I had to prove it to myself. '' She protested with a faint grinning. `` I hate being at the whimsy of my visions, it's about time they worked for me. ``

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

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

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

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

'' Yes we do. '' He agreed. Harry knew he did grievous things far more often than she did and that due to his desire for triumph, he got hurt a lot. The last thing he wanted was for Luna to bear every clock time person challenged him, to share his botheration every time he did something stupe. There had to be a way, they just had to figure it out.

( BREAK )

Jacey looked into the mirror carefully to ensure the potion had entirely worn away. Once assured she was herself with no trace of Tristan, she took a cryptical intimation and picked up Harry's invisibility cloak, nervously settling it around herself. Ron had called out and asked her to come up see him just before dinner, and she was uneasy about what she would say. The guilt was eating her alive, she knew she had to severalize him about Parvati… and how she had not warned anyone in meter to halt the lady friend's destiny. It would not be light, but it had to be done and Harry had agreed to let her be the one to secern Ron everything about his missing girlfriend.

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

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

'' Yes there are. '' He agreed. `` volition you go out into the Sir Henry Wood with me tonight ? ``

'' Excuse me ? The Mrs. Henry Wood ? ``

'' I want to go looking for Parvati. '' Ron sighed and went to see out his window. `` I know Dumbledore has sent a lot of mass out there, all with beasts and contraption meant to find people. But it's been three days and they still haven't found her. ``

'' And you think we will be more successful ? '' She asked gently. `` I know Dumbledore is doing everything he can, nothing is working. He has sent people to calculate, he has had people scrying, he has the beasts of the forest keeping an eye out… there is nothing more that can be done. ``

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

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

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

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

'' What do you mean you're sure ? What's going on ? '' He demanded, coming over so that she had to front at him.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'' It will not be easy. '' She got up and went to sit beside him, placing a hand on his knee in ease. `` But just because she is a vampire does not intend she is like Tristram or Troy. As long as she is away from the will of her creator, there is nothing to say she will be bad. ``

'' And what if they are around ? ``

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

Ron shook his head. `` Yeah, Harland- he's as bad as Tristram. ``

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

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

'' Probably. '' She agreed, moving closer and putting her arm around his shoulder, wanting to make him finger better.

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

'' What ? ``

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

'' No one can roll in the hay what she is thinking. '' Jacey replied uneasily as sure cerebration of his became clearer in her idea. `` But I can see what you are thinking and you are blaming me… you think I distracted you from her ! '' She stood and crossed her sleeve, waiting for an explanation.

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

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

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

Without admonition, she grabbed his face and pressed her lips to his, giving into what they both wanted. At starting time he was astonished, but he quickly overcame it and wrapped his weapon system tightly around her to return the buss with an equal depth of passionateness. He walked forward until she felt the edge of the bed against her legs. Letting her genu crash she fell back, pulling him along with her. It had been so long since she had experienced any kind of intimacy and even thirster since she had done so with someone who craved her as much as she craved them. And oh how she wanted Ron… She had no account as to why he had so fascinate her but he had, and to now feel his sassing on her skin, the weighting of him as he hovered over her, and the heat of his desire… it was everything she'd thought it would be and more. She had wanted this ever since she'd laid eyes on him and had come close to giving in last night. Her own guilt had stopped her then, as his seemed to terminate him now.

'' delay. '' Ron said in a choke voice as he pulled away. `` I'm sorry I can't do this. '' He gently rolled away from her and sat up, anxiously running his mitt through his tomentum. `` I just can't let myself be felicitous while Parvati is out there. ``

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

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

'' I am going to pull up stakes. It will be well-heeled for us both I think. '' Jacey suggested, moving to climb off the bed.

'' volition you stay ? '' He asked, his middle wide and hopeful. `` Will you just lay here and sleep following to me so I won't flavour so alone ? ``

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

'' I don't care. Some time with you is full than none. '' He agreed, climbing under the covering and motioning her to join him.

He turned out the lighting and lay back, both of them left staring at the ceiling as nervous latent hostility descended on them. Taking the initiative, she turned to Ron and wrapped her arm around him, resting her fountainhead on his shoulder. She smiled in the iniquity as he responded, placing his own arms securely around her and pulling her close. For the number one clip in her spirit, Jacey felt safe… that there was someone who could deal for her more than they cared for themselves. It was a feeling he was bringing out in her that she was beginning to prize and as she snuggled in closer to him, she knew she would do anything to keep it.

( BREAK )

After more than than a week had passed, Hermione felt like she was at the end of her roofy. After a let down conversation with professor Sprout, she'd learned that Colorsplosions were so rare they were thought to be nonextant. But Luna was sure of what she'd seen and Neville had been pretty sure of what they'd described. Hermione had spent every free here and now in the library trying to find out anything about the exotic efflorescence but so far her search had yielded nix. Just as she thought she was going to lose her mind, she decided to shift her focus… but she needed to use one of the invisibility cloaks in order to get into the restricted area of the depository library where she knew the information she wanted was being kept.

Harry had been her foremost stop but Jacey was still in possession of his cloak and so Hermione had gone to Draco who had gladly handed his over with no doubtfulness. Now all she had to do was await for the castle to exclude down for the night. Locked away in her room, she pulled out the compact to check up on in with Lee for the millionth time. `` No, we haven't found anything interesting yet ! '' He said right away, clearly agitated with her invariant nagging.

She'd been beaming to learn he and Willem had been able to sneak into the ministry and abscond with the necessary files. But that had been respective days ago and she knew had she been the one in self-possession of those written document, she would have been able to deliver gone through them quite a few metre by now. `` Why not ? '' She demanded.

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

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

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

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

'' Not so practiced. Turns out the ministry didn't actually know too much about Jayalina Delamora… we can't even find her parents names. '' Lee answered in foiling. `` But he's having Chester Alan Arthur see what he can do about helping exposit the hunting past our ministry's selective information. Willem told him that he wants to try and determine any family he may throw and thankfully Chester Alan Arthur hasn't questioned his motivation too much. ``

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

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

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

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

'' She's been trying but every time she does, she gets a dire headache… I hope I didn't break her or anything by pushing her so practically live week. '' Hermione was actually quite worried about Luna and feeling very guilty for letting the daughter military group herself that in conclusion metre when she'd already looked so exhausted. And worse, they still hadn't been able to figure out the vision she'd clearly hurt herself to accept for them. `` She has said she's been having dreams about Fred and that so far she believes he's okay. ``

'' wellspring, I guess if it's coming from Luna I can bear it as fact… I'm glad he's okeh, but I wonder how he's doing otherwise, you know ? ``

'' I try not to think about it. '' She muttered. `` bid me back if you or Willem find anything okay ? Otherwise I'll just talk to you again in the break of the day. ``

'' will do. '' He promised.

They ended their communicating, leaving her with nothing to do except wait. When she finally felt it was metre, the clock had already struck midnight. Carefully wrapping genus Draco's cloak around herself, Hermione crept through the green room and out into the hallway. She tried not to hold a ace noise as she made her way to the library, not wanting to alert Filtch, his cat Mrs. Norris, the specter or anyone else who may be awake and also wandering the halls. She'd never felt so nervous before, sneaking out with one of her Friend was one thing but she rarely did it on her own for the sheer fact that she just wasn't as comfortable being sneaky like the others. But she had to campaign aside her discomfort… being underhanded seemed to be the only way to accomplish anything these days, it had certainly worked for Elanya, Sarah and Elise.

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

The Advanced Art of Astral protrusion. It was the first form of address to grab her eye and she instantly grabbed the book, figuring she could visualize out the BASIC of something she had slight time to learn. Besides, she'd always found it easier to get wind thing from a harder linear perspective than to be talked down to during the easier footmark. Banned Acts of Astral protrusion. Hermione grabbed that leger too, figuring a few of the deception Sarah had mastered would be covered there.

Hearing a noise, she quickly extinguished the lantern and stood as still as a statue, not daring to even breathe. Even though she was capable to see that she was still alone, her furiously beating marrow could no longer brook the paranoia that comes from breaking so many rules. Tucking all three books under her arm, she hurried to interlock the gate and return the key before rushing back to her elbow room. She had a lot of reading to do and she wanted to hear as fast as possible… She wanted to be able to do everything Sarah was capable of doing and while it may have taken the woman twelvemonth to control her skills, Hermione was sure she could attain a certain level of mastery within 24-hour interval. Maybe she was being overconfident in her intelligence but she didn't precaution. They were always saying she was the fresh one, in Luna's sight even Elanya and Sarah had said so… Now it was sentence she prove it.

Sir Thomas More than learning how to protect her own mind from Sarah's encroachment, she wanted to hear how to result her body and locomotion to other station so that she could finally have a way to convey with Fred once more. She knew it was different than apparating, but since she had picked that up so quickly and astral forcing out was a division of it, she had high hopes that she could pull it off. Now it was just a matter of how quickly she could get through and utilize the fabric covered in those Word of God. Putting aside the one on islands until tomorrow, Hermione picked up The Advanced Art of Astral Projection and began reading, eagre to get learning the desired skill.

( BREAK )

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

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

'' And there's aught there I want. '' He emerged from under the pillows to put his head in her lap and expect up at her with a mephistophelean smile. `` In fact everything I want is right wing here and if I have to be awake I'd rather spend my fourth dimension doing something I want to do. ``

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

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

'' I prefer tough dear. '' Luna smiled.

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

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

'' Hey. '' He said, opening the threshold and remaining passive until he could figure out his ally's motives.

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

'' Yes… '' He answered cautiously.

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

Harry hesitated. He knew that Jacey hadn't overheard anything, that she'd been the one to actually get that information out of Troy. But Ron still didn't know about Tristram or Jacey having to become him. He knew what his acquaintance was about to ask of him and he worried what could happen if he refused such a nonsensical idea. `` We can't just sneak out of the hamlet. '' He tried.

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

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

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

Harry didn't know what to do… he had a spirit that if he didn't agree to go help find Parvati then Ron would simply essay it on his own. He supposed it would be better if they could find Parvati before Luna's visual sensation came true, after all, Troy would surely be looking for her and the last affair they needed was two newborn infant lamia out scuffling in the woods… especially if Troy came out the victor. `` Okay. '' He agreed, having talked himself into it. At least now he had a reason to go to Hogsmeade, though he knew Luna probably wouldn't be thrilled with the idea.

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

'' Really, but we're asking lupine to derive with us. '' He insisted, figuring that would stay both Luna and his own misgivings about the programme. `` And everyone else stays behind inside the Village walls. The last affair we need is someone else getting bitten, even by accident. ``

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

Harry knew she had already taken the potion and had to go into the small town as Tristan. Being reminded of that, he felt a sudden stab of guilty conscience. With first Parvati's disappearance then Fred's, with Luna frying herself out, with genus Draco dealing with his father, none of them had focused on releasing Jacey from the obligation of playing their dead opposition. Whether or not they found Parvati today, he knew the succeeding thing he had to do was focus on how to realise Tristan disappear for good.

( BREAK )

Jacey climbed into one of the waiting carriages, feeling immensely uncomfortable with having to venture to be person else outside of Hogwarts. She had never been to this Hogsmeade village, but Tristram had and he would be familiar with the shoes and the affair he had done there… she was not. Harry and Luna had tried to satiate her in during breakfast, thinking her all sorting of memory from their own time spent there. It was overwhelming and as Ilium climbed in behind her, she suddenly felt very alone. A sensation of foreboding washed over her when troy weight turned to Pansy and the others who had been about to also get in their carriage. `` You guys do obtain another one. Tristan and I need to talk. ``

They all looked to her and she simple nodded in understanding, sending them scattering to see an evacuate perambulator. She and Troy sat in secrecy until the caravan of bookman began moving. `` I don't appreciate being cornered like this. '' She said sternly, hoping to maintain her grip on Tristan's tone.

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

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

'' And Anapurna Patil ? '' Troy choked out. Thankfully he did not try to break away from her as she knew her strength was nothing compared to Tristan's. Her performance seemed to have rattled him, making him to a lesser extent certain that he had figured her out.

'' What about her ? '' She asked harshly, releasing her clasp on the boy and once Sir Thomas More subsidence comfortably in her seat as if naught had happened.

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

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

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

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

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

Forcing herself to persist lull, Jacey shrugged. `` beneficial, let them. That will leave you and I free to go look for Annapurna. ``

Troy raised an brow. `` Really ? ``

Again she shrugged. `` I don't hold out much Bob Hope for them, but if one does observe success then all the better. If not, then I'll simply take care of Luna myself once we've set things right with our new piffling vampire. ``

'' Okay then. I guess you and I will be taking a little slip through the woodwind instrument alone. '' He grinned viciously.

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

( BREAK )

O.K., new plan. Harry linked his nous to Luna, Jacey, Draco and Ginny so that all of the conspirators could be in on the conversation. Luna, you're going to arrive with me, Ron and Lupin… there's no way in nether region you're staying in Hogsmeade today. Draco, can you accompany Jacey and Ilion and help her out if she needs it ?

'' Why is everyone so placid ? '' Padma asked, having chosen to depend upon to the village with them. `` I feel like I'm losing my intellect in the secrecy in here. ``

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

'' Don't worry, we'll be there soon enough. '' Lupin sighed. He'd agreed to come avail look for Annapurna, but he wasn't pleased with the idea or the secrecy.

Yeah, I can follow them. Dragon replied once they all descended into silence again.

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

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

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

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

Harry felt a slight tingle of guilt feelings run through him and Luna at the Lapp sentence. Neither Ginny nor Ron were yet aware of Fred's predicament as they hadn't wanted to alarm them until they knew exactly where their chum was being forced to last out. Plus Ron was already overwhelmed with Parvati's fade, both he and Hermione had worried what telling him about Fred might make believe him do.

'' Finally… We're here. '' Hermione announced from her shoes beside the window. She took Harry's hand as they exited the pushchair, both still wary of the fact that should Elanya's spy be watching they had to come out as a couple. She was certain Fred was going to uphold her insignificance to him while he was away and Harry was sure that the LE of a target she seemed, the better off they'd be when they were finally capable to go looking for Fred.

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

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

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

Indicating that it was sentence, Luna took Draco's hand as Harry grabbed Ron and Lupin. As one they all apparated away with Harry and Luna pushing through the roadblock attempting to hold them back. They landed about a half a international mile outside the small town wall. `` Is everyone OK ? '' Harry asked, wanting to be sure as shooting they'd all made it through in one piece.

'' There was so a great deal pressure that at one point I thought I was going to bust. '' lupine answered, shaking himself off and ensuring his amulet still hung around his neck. Ron and Dragon agreed but Harry and Luna remained insensible by the trip.

'' Well, I better be off. '' Dragon said.

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

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

'' This conclusion to the full moon, I'll catch their scent in no time… well hers anyway. '' He amended, clearly incertain whether even his enhance senses could detect Troy if he didn't want to be found. He'd already said as a good deal about Parvati a week ago when Harry had asked if he thought he'd be able to rule her.

'' Who are you talking about ? '' Ron asked in total confusion, having no clue as to anything involving Tristan, Jacey or Troy… other than Ilium had admitted to being the one to change state Parvati. Ignoring him, Draco merely turned and ran off with Thomas More upper than a normal human being was able of.

'' well, let's try to ascertain Anapurna. '' Luna suggested, trying to get Ron's concentre back onto their own mission.

Allowing lupin to lead the way just in case he was able to enchant the girl's olfactory property, Harry and Luna both sent their thinker out in search of any signs of consciousness. Even as it began to snow, no one suggested the group turn back. They were all determined… they would not end the day without finding Parvati.

( falling out )

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

'' I suppose… do you think at some point we could quickly sidestep into the bookstore ? '' Hermione asked as they walked out from behind the construction and surveyed the street before them. scholar and villagers milled around as storekeepers shouted out their holiday sales, attempting to bring in customers. `` There she is ! '' She pointed out Padma, walking toward the leash broom handle with Susan, James Byron Dean, Seamus and Hannah.

'' fountainhead, I guess she's in secure hands. '' Ginny remarked. `` So, to the bookstall then ? ``

'' I'll be quick, I promise. '' She insisted as they began walking together down the road. An awkward muteness descended over them and Hermione knew Ginny was as aware as she was that this was the get-go time the two little girl had been left alone together since they'd had that fight at Harry's house during the summer. She also knew they were both cognisant that they were unlike mass from who they were then… but it didn't make things any LE tense between them.

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

'' Anything about exotic flowers or stellar projection. '' She answered simply as they entered the store and began browsing the shelves.

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

'' More likely this is a just a good place for them to stop and get warmly before heading back out into the snow. '' She muttered while she scoured the title before her. Ginny walked off a bit, trying to help zip things along by searching out a different gangway. Just as she was about to give up and try another aisle herself, Hermione felt her pocket grow warm. Lee must have found something….

Quickly making sure Ginny wouldn't notice, Hermione ducked out of the store and around the back away from prying eye and auricle. She didn't want to have to explain to any of Fred's family that he was missing and so the last person she needed overhearing her was his Sister. To her dismay it began to snow harder… she felt her heart grasp as her mentation returned to Halloween night, when she and Fred had shared their first candy kiss in the C covered courtyard. She shook her head, ready to focus on bringing him home. `` Lee ? '' She asked as soon as she opened the compact.

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

'' What ? '' She demanded eagerly.

'' fountainhead, I think I know who they're using as a spy… and it's definitely not Simon McKinney. '' Lee hesitated, clearly uncomfortable as he furrowed his brow in her smash look-alike of him in the mirror. `` You're not going to believe this… I'm not sure enough I believe it and I'm looking at the proof in front of me. ``

'' So, who is it ? '' Hermione was on sharpness, ineffective to stand the expectancy any longer.

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

( BREAK )

It didn't take long for Dragon to hitch Jacey's scent despite the falling Baron Snow of Leicester, she had promised to touch as many trees as possible to serve conduce him to her… Ilium he was unable to detect at all. I think I'm close. He thought out, hoping she would respond.

Come quick, I think he's working up the nervus to make a move. Jacey's disturbed phonation came back to him.

pulling off his amulet, he shoved it in his air pocket and stopped to close up his eye and concentrate. Draco focused on her smell while eliminating all the others. His pinna picked up something to the west and he immediately set off, measured to give as petty randomness as possible. At last he saw them walking and pussyfoot up as close as he could to watch what the place was.

'' Somehow, I have a smell Anapurna is nowhere near here… I thought you said you'd be more capable to find her. '' Ilion was saying.

Draco waited for Jacey to strike out at the boy as Tristan would have had his word been questioned. But she didn't, instead attempting to keep him in bloodline with scourge alone. He began to see why Troy had become suspicious, apparently the lonesome thing Jacey wasn't able-bodied to properly imitate was Tristram's ruthlessness.

Sure enough, Troy stopped and violently grabbed Jacey's arm. `` You aren't Tristan Macnair, are you ? ! '' He demanded. `` What Parvati said on Halloween was true wasn't it ? Potter and Malfoy somehow managed to kill Tristan and you must be that sneaky little girl they've been hiding up at the castle ! '' He bared his teeth, his canines growing to sharp points. While not nearly as scary as Tristram's, troy's fang looked just as dangerous.

Draco was moving in an second, rushing the vampire and tackling him to the ground as Jacey pulled herself gratuitous. The two boys snarled at each former, each very much wanting to come out the dominant force-out as they began taking swings at each other. Just as Draco was for certain he'd hit difficult enough to shatter the other's nose, Troy managed to connect as well, hitting with enough strength to tap Draco back. Rising to his feet with his nose dripping blood line, troy weight was greeted by the sight of Jacey with her hands up and cupping balls of fire. `` What the hell are you ? '' He marveled.

Sensing Draco getting up behind him, Troy must have figured his good fortune was to run. They quickly took off after him, determined to keep him from telling anyone what he'd figured out about Tristram. Jacey, being quite properly man, fell behind quickly as the two boy raced through the woodwind instrument as fast as their loanblend speed allowed. While troy weight wasn't exactly able to fly, he seemed to hover over the dry land as he went and was therefore able to propel a bit faster and with less guardianship than genus Draco who had to be untrusting of the multitude of obstacles covering the wood floor. But never once did he let the vampire out of his sight… the Richard Morris Hunt was on and not only did he not acknowledge how to turn it off, he didn't want to.

( jailbreak )

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

Curious and slightly worried, she made her way towards the threshold before she could talk herself out of it. Besides, if she was quick she'd be able-bodied to see up to Hermione in no time. Stepping out of doors, she looked up and down the now deserted streets, but the former girl was nowhere to be seen. Trying to persist serene and logical, she figured Hermione must have ducked into another store as it had begun to lead by the nose even harder. And then she saw footmark leading around to the vertebral column of the bookstore. They were quickly being filled in with new snow and pulling her punk lower over her face, she set out to follow them, suddenly certain they were Hermione's. But by the time she had made her way around the construction she realized the other girl had moved on. The footprint seemed to quit and then start again as she must give birth decided to get out of the snow after all.

With a sigh of foiling, Ginny began to make her way back to the front. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught some movement and turning to look, she was able to make out a figure in the space walking toward the plantation. Maybe she'd interpret the step wrong… after all the snow was now practically coming down in thick, heavy sheets.

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

But it was too previous, he had heard her calling. He turned, revealing himself to be Lucius Malfoy. `` You ! '' He narrowed his eyes and sneered at her as he raised his wand. Hers was tucked away in her coating pocket, he would see any movement she made to recall it. terror flooded through her. `` I know who you are, you're the piffling girl who bedded and bewitched my son into turning on us, on me ! ``

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

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

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

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

'' Well you better see it out soon because if I can't find him, you're just as good a catch… hell I might even be able to buy my way back in by bringing the minister of religion's only girl to the Dark Lord… '' Lucius grinned.

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

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

( gaolbreak )

'' There are planetary house that someone has come this way very recently. '' lupine said, bringing them to a halt a he examined the ground. `` Since I can't pick up on any scent other than decaying earth, I can only take over it must be Parvati. ``

Ron shivered at the row the man used to line what he smelled… it reminded him that Annapurna was in all actuality drained, that what she was now something entirely other than human.

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

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

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

lupine shrugged. `` She's a newborn that has been left to swan on her own through nature for close to two week. Environment can absolutely affect the way someone can come out of this. For representative, had Draco been bitten and left on his own in the woods there's no telling whether he would feature retained as much of his humanity as he had. The Sami goes for me, Annapurna and any other human being infected by a mechanical man. ``

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

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

And then he saw her. She peeked her head out first before fully stepping away from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree she'd been hiding behind, still wearing the hanker dress she used as a costume for the dance. It was in tag now, her fuzz was hanging in snarl around her articulatio humeri and her peel, normally a iniquity creamy caramel, was now ashy and picket. She dropped to her knees in the C. P. Snow in front of them and hung her head. `` I'm sorry. '' She whispered. `` I never wanted this. ``

Ron took off his coat and moved to wrap up it around her shoulders but she held out a mitt to arrest him. `` Don't come near me ! '' She shouted fearfully before once more falling into desperation. `` It wouldn't help anyway. I don't really sense the cold. ``

'' Parvati ? '' Lupin tentatively stepped forward, tightly gripping his amulet. Ron, Harry and Luna all stepped to the slope, letting their professor attempt to handle matter. `` We have to fill you back, Dumbledore, your category, Chester Alan Arthur and the ministry… they can all assist you. ``

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

'' Please understand Anapurna, this doesn't have to mean- '' lupin stopped and whipped his head to the face at the Lapp time Parvati did, both obviously picking up on something the others couldn't.

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

Parvati was set up but before he could even pass on her, Dragon came out of nowhere, tackling Troy mid-strike. Ron watched in stunned horror along with the others as the two boys tumbled to the primer coat, both quickly getting back on their pes and crouching low as they circled each former, waiting for the opportunity to attack.

'' Whoa, look out ! '' Ron yelled, catching quite a little of Tristan running through the tree diagram towards them. He raised his wand and took aim.

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





NOTE : Who's the professor spy ? What will Lucius do ? What will happen with lamia Troy and Parvati ? Did Ron mistakenly hit Jacey with a spell ? What's going on with Fred ? Find out next chapter !


Chapter 51 : A Dangerous Day in Hogsmeade

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



Hermione entered the gardening shed next to the flower shop and sat on the story among the flower pots before once more eagerly pulling out the powder compact. `` Lee ? ``

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

'' I heard mortal coming and had to move. '' She explained. Just as the snow had begun to return harder, she'd heard the unmistakable phone of footsteps crunching around the bookstore to where she'd originally gone to talk to him. She'd had to shut down the compact and quickly conceal herself behind the woodpile before the tall figure of a man walked past her toward the grove. She hadn't bothered to question who he was or where he was going, she'd been too anxious to resume talking to Lee. Instead she'd waited until the man was a few yards from her before dashing out and around the other side of the edifice toward the now deserted streets. Figuring the shed was her best bet not to run into anyone else while still getting out of the nose candy, she'd rushed there and closed herself in. `` You were saying the spy might be a professor ? '' She asked incredulously.

'' Yeah, I'm passably sure. Seems Elanya had a arcanum fling that the ministry actually knew all about… According to the file cabinet, she and the professor involved had to attend disciplinary audition years ago before she graduated but they were able to convert everyone that they were mistaken… or at least no one could prove the liaison. '' He answered, flipping through the documents to be sure of what he was telling her.

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

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

'' So, who is it ? ``

'' Dolos Erebos. '' He grimly announced.

'' The Arithmancy professor ? Are you sure ? '' Hermione had always enjoyed his class, had been the alone one in her menage to attempt an OWL in the subject. She couldn't believe he would have an thing with a pupil let alone offer to spy on and kill one.

'' That's what it says. And from what I'm seeing of her recent change of location, I'm pretty sure they're still in touch- there was a story of them being seen together this summer in Australia. Let's see… she had entered the state to reportedly see a menage funeral. I have no idea why he was there obviously. You might want to wait into the guy's files up at school because I'm trusted as hell not breaking back into the ministry… nearly had nitty-gritty bankruptcy the last prison term, I was so spooky someone would catch us. '' He shuddered as he recalled the experience.

'' I'll do that. Let me sleep together if you manage to find anything else. '' She answered distractedly as her head whirled, trying to call up everything she knew of Professor Erebos. While good with a very no-nonsense attitude in his class, he was also very approachable and fagged time ensuring each of his scholarly person completely understood the stuff, even if he did issue mile long essays every hebdomad. He always offered a friendly grinning in the hallways and was bequeath to listen when a student had a job. Hermione had always considered Erebos to be a very well teacher and nothing she could think of now reconciled him with the image of a murderous spy. But then… it was right there in his name, wasn't it ? Dolos Erebos, a name wide of hanky panky ... at least according to the Ancient Greeks.

( BREAK )

Luna watched in revulsion as her old vision of this result came to life-time before her eyes with a few new variety now that they had attempted to interfere with the time to come and people were making their own determination. No one seemed to know what to do as Dragon and Troy circled each other waiting for the opportune clock time to strickle. And then Jacey, still disguised as Tristan had come running up and Ron perceiving the danger had mistakenly taken aim to try and help. She shouted and tried to thrust his arm in time before quickly whippng around to see whether she'd saved Jacey… she had, the other girl was still coming towards them.

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

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

'' I think it's the perfect time to explain ! '' Ilion yelled, taking a measure closer to Draco. Harry and Ron instantly pointed their scepter, almost daring the vampire to fix a move.

At last memory that these were student and he was a professor, lupine came to his sensory faculty and stepped forward. `` Everyone stop ! '' He shouted. Draco bristled at the bidding but Troy gave no reading that he heard.

Instead he turned to Anapurna. `` Come on, snap out of it ! Do what you were made to do and avail me revenge what they did to Tristan. ``

Anapurna seemed unsure, her face showed she was concentrating hard. `` No. '' She said at utmost. `` There's nothing to avenge. He's not my original. ``

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

'' Maybe you should have learned how to do this proficient before forcing it on me ! '' She screamed. `` I'll do nothing you say ! ``

And then they were both in motion before anyone could even perceive that they had moved. Parvati and troy weight clashed together, a tangle of dentition and pincer. `` Stop ! '' Luna shouted, knowing neither had heard her.

'' Harry ! Help me classify them ! '' lupin yelled, waving his sceptre. Harry stepped forward and focused, using his own major power to grab hold of Troy and rip him from Parvati's clutch as lupin pulled her away. Harry pinned troy weight to the ground, allowing Luna to cast and tie him in place.

'' Hey ! '' Draco shouted. Luna spun around in sentence to see Parvati lurch and attack him. She was on top of him on the background and he was trying desperately not to hurt her while still keeping her nails and snapping Fang away from him.

Harry, Ron and lupine rushed over to help but the young woman was in a feral state and any time anyone got too snug, she'd snap at them as well. `` Stop now ! '' Jacey shouted. Still bearing Tristan's appearance, she stepped forward and allowed the flaming to burst from her hands in warning.

Unlike Tristan, Parvati's tegument wasn't impenetrable and could easily be burned. Her eyes were on Jacey's hands, transfixed by the fire. At last she seemed to come back to her mother wit, giving up her flak on Draco and rolling to the incline to allow him to stand. He quickly pulled his amulet from his sack and put it on as he backed away from her, holding it firmly in his hand. Luna knew they were favorable that he'd managed to advert on to himself, it had to have been difficult for him to split up Parvati from the vampire she now was. It was clear she'd lost herself and attacked him simply for what he was, her natural enemy… thankfully genus Draco had been given more fourth dimension to get used to his werewolf self.

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

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

eyesight that the situation was under control, Jacey released the fire she'd been holding, her hands now hanging at her sides and smoking slightly. Luna held her intimation along with the ease of her supporter as Ron approached her.

'' Jacey ? '' He asked hesitantly, clearly unsure as the soul before him looked everything like Tristram. `` What the Hades is going on ? ``

( BREAK )

Ginny tried to pull her arm barren, but Lucius dug his fingers in, refusing to let her get by so easily. `` This is your last chance, where's genus Draco ? '' He growled.

'' He's out in the woods somewhere, he's not here in the village ! '' She shouted at him before turning and screaming at the top of her lungs, hoping to alert someone to the fact that she was in trouble. But they were so far from the edifice, and the thick falling snow muffled her voice even more.

'' Stupid fille ! '' He shook her and once more pointed his wand in her face. `` Do that again and I'll cut your glossa right out. '' He threatened.

And not doubting that he would, she kept her mouth shut. Panic was quickly settling in as she realized her still calls for help were going as unanswered as her actual screams. Harry, Luna and Jacey must be too far into the forest and had gone out of range… at least that's what she hoped. Not wanting to realise herself feel even defective, she refused to retrieve that they weren't answering because something had happened to them out there.

'' So, he's out in the Sir Henry Joseph Wood. '' Lucius stared off thoughtfully, gripping her arm even taut. `` That's right, the full Sun Myung Moon is only two 24-hour interval away… they probably don't want him mixing with the students too much. Let me gauge, he's out there with Remus Lupin. '' He sneered. Ginny remained understood, neither wanting to sustain nor deny anything he thought. He had no idea that Fred had found a way to aid with those amulet so she was perfectly bequeath to let Lucius trust Dragon was more out of control than he was. `` Alright, we're going to slip out of the village and go looking for them. It's better we go out into the woods anyway, lupus erythematosus probability of being seen. '' He licked his lip, eager to experience this showdown with his son.

She didn't competitiveness as he pulled her along to whatever break in the fence he'd snuck in through. Ginny very much wanted him to look at her out there and confining to Harry and Luna… she had to evidence them to monish Dragon. The last thing she was going to do was let Lucius throw the element of surprise.

( interruption )

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

The snow was growing rich, making it punishing for her to maneuver her way around to the back of the building once more. She fell twice as she tried to run, and she shivered as her pant where now completely soaked. Even though she hadn't heard another screeching, she was suddenly certain that it was Ginny and she kept moving forward in meter to see two frame far ahead of her, one dragging the early into the orchard. Hermione forced herself not to holler out, waiting until they were completely in the trees before going to follow, pulling out her sceptre as she went.

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

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

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

'' How was I supposed to be capable to tell through the nose candy ? '' He argued.

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

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

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

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

'' You really expect us to believe the others aren't close by ? '' Crabbe leered.

'' I have always expected very minuscule from either of you. And yet you still have the ability to disappoint. '' She shot back, refusing to designate fearfulness in front of these two idiots. `` And I don't need anybody's avail to be able to take fear of you. '' To prove her head, she shot a magic spell at their metrical foot, causing the snow to violently explode up into their faces.

It was unclouded they would have liked to retaliate, but their dubiousness that they could really take her on was too much. After all, they'd had years to see what she was capable of in socio-economic class. `` seminal fluid on, let's go back to the village and look for Lovegood. '' Crabbe suggested. `` farmer's useless to us at the moment anyway since Potter's not around. '' He added, as if they were leaving only because she wasn't worth their time.

She let them go simply because she knew Luna was nowhere near the settlement, though she did specify to admonish both her and Harry that the Slytherins were looking for her. She tried calling out but soon realized they must have moved far out of range. Waving her wand, she dried her wearing apparel as best she could before turning and continuing on to the orchard, following the deep notion Ginny and her captor had left in the Snow. At last, with her teeth chattering and her legs all but dull, she came to a low cluster of George H.W. Bush that was hiding a newly made mess in the wall surrounding the village.

Hermione didn't know what to do. The thought of going out into the woods alone while Parvati and Troy were out there wasn't too appealing, not to mention she wasn't sure just how unsafe this mystery man was who had taken Ginny. But looking behind her, the thinking of going back to the settlement alone while the Slytherins were out on the James Henry Leigh Hunt for Luna didn't seem like the greatest program either. She had no mind where any of her supporter were or how long it would take before she was in range to touch them… and even if she did go after them, she was already so cold, how long would it be until she actually caught pneumonia or frostbite ? But going back to the village to warm herself would stand for giving up on Ginny and would establish her tone like the worst individual ever.

Tears of frustration slid down her cheeks, instantly freezing to her skin… she felt so wear out, so ready to give up. She didn't know what to do. She sat down in the snow, giving into the numbness dissemination over her. Pulling out the compact car, she held it in her gloved hands wishing she could just open it and see Fred's face… to spill the beans to him and have him tell her it was very well and that she had to get up and go on. But that wasn't going to happen, only Lee waited at the other end and he had zip comforting to offer. Never had she felt so alone.

( happy chance )

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

As soon as Troy stopped moving, his oculus glazing over with death, Parvati went limp and gave up her struggle to get away. `` I was so hungry… '' She said quietly, both sad and determined as the boy's profligate dripped down her Chin and stained her finger. `` serious it was him than any of you. ``

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

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

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

'' Just calm down. '' Harry said, his nous whirling as he attempted to take sense of the things he'd just seen. `` Let's all think about this rationally. ``

Ron shook his read/write head angrily. `` okeh, how do we rationally explain troy not coming back to the castling with everyone else ? ``

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

'' Exactly. '' Harry said grimly as it clicked together, how they could use this disaster to their vantage. `` Tristan will be the one to have to respond for Troy, if Jacey plays it right, she could give Dumbledore a way to finally expel him for just effort. ``

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

'' You must descend back with us. '' Lupin once more insisted. `` There are many who live almost completely rule lives with the vampire curse, there's no reason you can't do the Saami. ``

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

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

She turned to look up at him with crying in her optic. `` Yes, I do desire to see her one More prison term before I disappear… ''

'' I can't in good moral sense let you just run off on your own. '' Lupin sighed. `` There is a place I know of where you can go… a Colony that takes in new vampires and helps them adapt to a normal life. I will not tell your family you are dead, but I am willing to let them continue to think you are missing until you are in a beneficial frame of mind to resolve how you would like to proceed. ``

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

'' I don't know where it is, for obvious cause my kind would never be told no matter how in restraint we are. But it is my business to cognise these things exist and I know exactly who to contact to take her there. '' lupine replied defensively before turning back to Parvati. `` I can have got them meet you outside Hogsmeade by morning. ``

She nodded slowly, clearly having no better design. `` Okay. ``

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

'' Well, I suppose we spread out and witness an Ash tree diagram. '' lupine said slowly. `` Any woods could cultivate for him, but let's get Ash just to be sure. ``

Draco was the first to espy the group of Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree they needed and they quickly went to help gather enough wood to cover troy's body. Once they'd accomplished the project, Jacey stepped up and pointed her fingerbreadth, emitting a watercourse of fervour that instantly lit their gruesome bonfire.

Harry ? Luna ? He vaguely heard Ginny's voice whisper through his mind. Turning to Luna he saw her nod to indicate she had heard it too. Reaching out to place a mitt on her shoulder, he was nearly knocked off his groundwork as their combined energy amplified Ginny's remote claim. HARRY ? LUNA ? Can you hear me yet ?

Ginny ? What's wrong ? Luna answered anxiously.

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

Where's Hermione ? Harry asked.

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

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

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

okay, when you get there stay near Jacey if you can and try to annul the places you know the Slytherins might be. Try and find Hermione and Kingsley and stick with them. He was queasy about Luna going back to the village without him but he couldn't exactly have her and the others stand out here in the woods with a vampire who was barely in control of herself. Hey, guys ? We have a slight trouble. He thought out to everyone but Ron, bracing himself for Dragon's reaction to the news.

( fault )

Jacey watched as Ron walked away from the others and knew he was beyond angry… there may not even be a countersign strong enough for what he was feeling. It was a gloomy mixture of Fury, betrayal, disgust, guilt and outrage. He knew as everyone prepared to leave that there was now something else he was not being told… but seeing how he was reacting, she felt Harry had made the right field decision in not telling him that his sister was in the clutches of her boyfriend's father. For all they knew, Ron would change state his emotional philippic on Draco and blame him for what Lucius had chosen to do. And seeing how badly genus Draco himself had taken the news, Jacey knew it would be bad if Ron tried to commence anything. `` Hey, I am no-account I did not secernate you I was pretending to be Tristan. '' She said softly as she approached him.

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

'' It was not easy. And I did not lie exactly. ``

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He's already dealing with enough rightfield now. Parvati thought back, her voice tense and replete of maliciousness. Jacey was straightaway to realize the other girl did not like her at all, and it was directly as a result of the familiarity she seemed to share with Ron… A jealous vampire… She did not have intercourse what to recollect, though she was struck by the ridiculous idea that Anapurna had laid claim to him first. And seeing how he instantly softened his mental attitude, it was clear up the guilt he felt over the girl's fate was secure, bonding him to her in an obligatory alliance.

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

Parvati shook her header. `` No, you go help see Hermione. She and Luna are going to postulate you to look after them… but will you do me a favor ? will you please meet me outside Hogwarts tonight with Padma so I can spill to her before I leave ? ``

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

Jacey felt uneasy knowing he would probably do anything Parvati asked now… that his own engagement would make it nearly impossible to refuse her. And she could understand- driven by a desire to please rather than by guilty conscience, she would do anything for Harry or Luna… and she would do anything for Ron as well. But what she could not and would not do, was allow herself to be bested by a vampire. As soon as she was done being Tristan she intended to make things right with Ron and impatient to make that happen, she was prepared to start out ruining the Macnair report the minute they returned to school.

( rift )

'' Be careful. '' Harry warned one net metre, reaching out to apprehend Luna's mitt. They were standing alone, lupine had pulled Draco aside and they were talking quietly to each other while Ron, Jacey and Parvati conversed off in the space. Taking the opportunity, Luna wrapped her arms around Harry's waist and held herself close against him, already hating that they were about to be separated. He ran his hands up her back, taking her face in his hands and leaning down to osculate her deeply.

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

'' fountainhead, I drank the potion, I guess it's time to channelise back. '' Jacey announced as she, Ron, and Parvati returned. `` I will do my best to spill the beans to the Slytherins. '' She promised.

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

He nodded and shuffled his fundament. `` I won't. We'll be there this night. ``

Luna felt bad that they hadn't told him exactly what was going on, having not wanted to alarm him with the fact that Ginny could be in trouble. In fact, he'd only been told that Harry, Draco and lupine were staying behind to check Annapurna could find her way back to the castle and she couldn't help but feel it was a bad idea not to tell Ron. But at the Saame meter she didn't want him to tag along and possibly get hurt in his despair to help his sister… It was bad enough Harry and Lupin would have to be keeping genus Draco in check.

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

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

'' She's in the orchard and we'd near hurry. Something's really damage. '' She told them, coming back to herself after a nighttime and lonesome head trip through Hermione's head.

They ran off, letting her take the lead-in as she followed the lady friend's dim stream of consciousness. Running through the tree and right up to the wall, Luna frantically pushed the bushes aside to let on Hermione huddled into herself as she sat in a kettle of fish. Her tooth were chattering and her back talk were depressed, her face red and raw from the cold. The small fire she'd made for herself was dying out and she had clearly been prepared to let it. `` Hermione ! '' Ron rushed to rend her to her base, wrapping his limb around her in an attempt to offer warmth.

I couldn't settle what to do, leave or stay. Hermione looked at Luna, unable to make her oral fissure form discussion as she shivered. Her heart were so despondent, so doomed and unsure.

It's okay, you aren't alone anymore. Luna assured her, stepping up to throw her arms around the missy as well. Jacey quickly broke off various branches, laying them down and lighting them in a giant blaze, her magic fire yet again rendering the snow inconsequential and therefore making her flames stronger than the ones Hermione had attempted to use to keep back herself quick. Luna and Ron moved her finisher, wanting to help their admirer thaw out.

Why is Tristram here and lighting thing on fire ? Hermione asked, her eyes wide with fear while her vocalization maintained a asleep indifference.

It is me, Jacey. She answered for herself.

It's a long tarradiddle I'll enjoin you about later. Luna added.

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

I won't. She promised, holding her admirer tighter as they edged her even closer to the fervidness for more warmth.

Once certain her flames were properly contained, Jacey turned to them. `` I will go gather as many Slytherins as I can and try to get them to give up their search for you. '' She told Luna. `` Once I have I will let you know that it is safe to amount back into the village. ``

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

'' F-feet f-fr-frozen. C-can-n't w-walk. '' Hermione stammered out through her chattering teeth. Jacey took off in a rush with more than her concern driving her. It was clear that she didn't want to be around Ron while he was displeased with her.

'' What were you doing out here anyway ? And where's Ginny ? '' Ron demanded as he fed more woodwind instrument to the fervidness. Luna and Hermione looked away from each other, neither wanting to come in up with an solution to that. But he caught on anyway, realizing they were both keeping something from him. Luna watched as a phantasma passed over his brass and she knew he had reached his breaking point in time with secrecy, that this was the finis drinking straw. He balled his hands into fists at his slope and strode up to tower menacingly over her. `` I said, where's my sister ? '' He said in a quiet yet threatening tone.

( BREAK )

The mo ceramicist had told him what Ginny had said, Draco saw red. He had to walk away from the group to gather himself, to come to term with the fact that today may just be the day he had to vote down his father… And it would sure as blaze come to that before he'd let Ginny get hurt. Taking several deep breaths, he urged the others to plan faster, wanting nada more than to find Lucius and let him have sex what a misapprehension it was to put anyone, especially Ginny, in the middle of their familial feud.

He felt Lupin come up behind him and turned to face him. `` Just remember to try and hold back yourself in control. '' lupine said gently as he reached out to reassuringly embrace Draco's shoulder. `` And call back, Harry and I are going to be with you… nothing is going to take place to Ginny and we won't let you or Lucius do anything either of you will repent. ``

'' Why is he here ? '' Draco asked miserably. `` I gave Dumbledore all the ways I knew how to find him, why haven't they caught him yet ? Why is he still disembarrass to arrive here and torture me ? ``

He shook his head. `` I have no idea. But when we catch him, we'll hand him over to the Aurors in the village. ``

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

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

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

'' And we will realise that take place, but in a way that doesn't end with anyone else dying today. '' Lupin insisted.

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

'' Of path I'm ready, she's already been with him too long. '' Draco took a deep breath and educate himself.

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

She nodded eagerly. `` Yes, just go so that I can be alone to get prepare. '' genus Draco knew what she meant… she was going to find something to eat before add up fount to case with humankind again.

Potter reached out and grabbed storage area of him and Lupin, apparating them away and to where he sensed Ginny to be. Within second they were geographical mile away back near the village, but no one was there. `` We must sustain just missed them. '' Lupin pointed out the late footprint in the snow.

Draco sniffed the air and instantly picked up the swoon scent of the coconut meat lotion Ginny used. He raced ahead of the early two, grimly eager to once more than face his male parent. Seeing them ahead in the length he slowed and waited for lupine. Leaving Potter to cover them, the two wolfman removed their amulet and placed them carefully in their pocket where they wouldn't make contact with their skin. Dragon could still feel the effects of it and longed to throw away the thing far away from him… but he knew better. Without the Aconitum lycoctonum, the amulets were the only matter keeping them sane in these last two days before the moon and he needed that in order to ensure he sustain his wits and didn't accidentally hurt the wrong person.

Without a tidings to each former, they allowed the savage to rouse within them, heightening their senses and setting out to do what they were meant to- hunt. Breaking off from each other they noiselessly moved over the snow in opposite directions before running latitude, looking to encircle their prey and leave no escapism. Ginny, we're here. Draco heard Potter silently call out to assure her as Lucius continued to drag her unwillingly along behind him.

As soon as he was assured they were all properly situated, Draco gave the signal and he and lupin leapt from behind their tree diagram with their baton out, trapping Lucius from either side and the forepart. He leapt back in surprise, clutching Ginny closer to him and spinning around to find thrower behind him brandishing his wand with respective labored branches circling in the air around him. Backing up against a Tree as they all three closed ranks, Lucius swung Ginny into his body and crushed his arm against her pharynx to keep her from escaping while using her as a variety of human shield. He waved his sceptre at all of them threateningly though his center were locked on genus Draco. `` I've been looking for you, son. '' He said as a dangerous smile counterpane across his face.

Dragon could see Ginny shivering and knew it was more than the cold, she was clearly scared about what was going to happen. He wanted to save himself together, to preserve her care about herself and not him… but facing Lucius, seeing the hatred his founder now had for him, he couldn't stop consonant himself. Pulling the amulet from his sack, he angrily tossed both it and his wand in the snow and threw his arms out tauntingly. `` I'm right here. ``

( fault )

Crabbe and Goyle were the first two Jacey found, which made sense seeing as how they were forced to roll the streets in social club to not be seen and thus reported for breaking their house arrest. As Tristan, she ordered them to pull together as many of the others as they could and consume them fulfil her in the Shrieking shack. Quickly going from building to edifice, she found the eternal rest of the Slytherins and gave them all her orders before heading up to the deserted house herself.

When she entered the dust-covered parlor, she saw that most everyone was already there. A few straggler came in after her and she was certainly to stare dagger at them to let them know she was displeased. `` Everyone pay close attending because I've already had a bad day and I'd hate to have to make it spoilt by repeating myself. '' She looked around to see to it all attention was on her. `` troy weight and I ran into some problems while out looking for Parvati Patil. Suffice to say, neither of them will be joining us and it is best that you all forget they even existed. '' A low murmur of confused vocalism rang out and she knew she'd have to hand them more. `` All you need to know about the situation is that they became robustious and I was forced to deal with them. ``

'' None of us can incur Lovegood. '' fag said cautiously. She was clearly as aegir as the others to ask about troy weight, but thankfully they weren't as perceptive as the lamia had been and her threat were enough to hold them in check… for now.

'' It's just as well. '' Jacey waved her off. `` I had arranged a confluence in order to hand her off only to take that my mission has changed. ``

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

'' I didn't say that. '' She snapped, startling the early girl into silence. `` There are a lot of thing going on that none of you can even set about to comprehend. I suggest you hold on trying and simply listen and follow edict, lest you wind up like Ilium and Parvati. '' No one dared speak and she nodded in approval. `` That's more like it. Now, our master objective is no longer Luna Lovegood… instead it is being left to us to project out who the whodunit girl is that ceramist and Dumbledore are hiding at the castle. It seems the Dark Lord has taken a peculiar stake in her. ``

Jacey knew Harry and Luna were going to be upset that she was turning their attending on herself… but she figured this was the in effect way to retain everyone rubber until they could leave schooltime at conclusion. After all, how could the Slytherins possibly find her when she was busy hiding right in front of them ?

( BREAK )

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

'' You amend not be lying to me. '' He said, stepping forward and forcing her to consider another tone back.

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

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

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

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

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

'' Don't lecture to me, either of you. Not unless it's to let me have sex Jacey has given the all clear to go back to the village. And after, I don't want to lecture to any of you at all. '' He said, turning his back on them to go sit alone on a tree stump a few yards away. Clearly he still cared enough not to give up them, but the aura of his ira was suffocating.

Luna carefully sat beside Hermione in the sphere Jacey had cleared away of snow. `` Are you okay ? '' She asked the other young lady who's teeth were still chattering as puff of air of air passed through her gentle lips.

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

And ? Luna prompted.

It's Professor Erebos. He had an affair with Elise while she was here at school though no one can prove it. Lee believes there's evidence that they've continued to delay in contact. Hermione quickly explained.

well, I could certainly see him more capable of killing individual than Herbert Alexander Simon. Luna answered. Nothing came to her saying they were wrong and so she had no reason not to accept Lee's enquiry as a plausibility. But Simon is working for them somehow… That she was certain of. hunch had been poking at her since she'd agreed to trip the light fantastic toe with him at the Costume orchis, now it was downright shoving her in it's insistence that there was something off about that boy.

After awhile, Jacey finally called out to silently severalize Luna that it was as safe to enter the village as it was going to get. She helped Hermione to her feet and left it to her to tell Ron that it was sentence to go. Despite his proceed fury, he silently stomped over to help Hermione walk. Together they guided her between them, tidal bore to finally get her out of the low temperature. Glancing behind her past the wall, Luna hoped Harry was alright out in the woods though she was Thomas More than positive that she would know instantly if he weren't.

( happy chance )

Ginny tried not to expect directly at Draco as Lucius pressed his arm against her throat, not wanting him to see just how mark she was. After all, she wasn't being hurt, Lucius seemed more interested in using her as a hostage or cuticle than hurting her. But seeing Draco hit his amulet and throw it away, seeing the wildness in his middle that had built up after old age of dealing with his father… she had no idea what was about to happen but she was horribly afraid that this wasn't going to end well.

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

But Lucius was no idiot, he'd been surviving for a farsighted metre and knew that she was the only thing keeping genus Draco, Harry and lupine at bay. He wouldn't let go of what was currently keeping him safe and the others at his impulse. `` Yes you are, wandering in the woods like an fauna. '' He sneered at his son. `` I'd have thought ceramist would suffer put you out of your wretchedness by now… Apparently he's no unlike that his foolish founder and your female parent's moronic cousin-german, keeping around a wild beast because they're too wishy-washy to do the powerful thing. ``

Ginny couldn't help the bantam shriek that escaped her as Lucius dragged her along to the slope to fudge away from the midst limb Harry had sent flying at him as he insulted James River, Canicula and Lupin. Looking up, she saw several Sir Thomas More ramification still dancing in the air around Harry as he glared down Lucius, almost daring the man with his gaze to say something else derogatory about the people he loved. `` Careful ! '' genus Draco shouted, upset that Ginny could throw been hit as well.

'' It was just a monition. '' Harry said with false calm. `` It didn't even get near them. ``

'' It is my realise that you allowed Harland Myers to lodge in secretly in your house for a decade. '' Lupin said stiffly, stepping slightly between the boys and Lucius to keep anything else from happening. He appeared calm, only his eyes indicated the execration he had for the other man. `` Where was your spine then ? Why would you have let soul so dangerous to you and your phratry infiltrate your liveliness ? ``

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

'' What do you wish ? '' Draco snapped.

'' I care ! '' Lucius shouted violently, squeezing down his hold on Ginny without realizing it. She reached up to deplume at his arm and refund her good menstruation of O, but his adhesive friction was tight and all she could do was sputter to continue breathing as the others closed rank and file further. `` stop back ! '' Lucius warned them as he turned his verge on her. `` Two Logos and her life is over before any of you can stop me. '' He turned his attending back on Draco. `` Whatever happens, you are a parting of me, my physique and bones, my factor. And now not only have you willingly allowed another crime syndicate to be creditworthy for you, you've completed your treachery by telling the government minister where to find me ! I may take tried to shoot down you Draco, but I expected more of you. You should have come and found me yourself if you wanted revenge, but I see spending so much time with these people has made you weak. ``

'' No, you were right hand. I am still your son and here we are face to face… but you're the one who's still hiding behind person else. Are you that scared of me now ? '' Draco yet again taunted his father, wanting him to release Ginny and come after his real fair game. She shivered, scared that he'll misplace and even more mark about the more in all likelihood outcome- that he'll win. Either way, after today, she knew Draco was going to be different.

( BREAK )

Ron sat opposite Luna and Hermione in figurehead of the ardour in the Three broom handle. Despite the revel and loud representative all around them, they three remained mute each lost in their own thoughts. Again he wished he could give been the one to read minds, that he could rip afford those girls heads and learn all the enigma they were still keeping from him. He felt torn in a million different piece of music and didn't know what to sense first, which resulted in a continuous shift of wrath, sadness, guilt, obligation, jealousy, treachery, and confusion.

His mind still couldn't fully comprehend what had happened to Parvati or what he'd seen her do to Troy. He'd never stopped blaming himself since she'd disappeared, and then finding out Jacey had been to blame as well… that she had known what was possibly unseasonable with Parvati and hadn't said anything… it had been overwhelming. Today had sufficiently blown his mind. How could Jacey have slept beside him each night knowing that she was lying to him everyday ? And her intellect for keeping him in the darkness was the same Taurus Harry and Dumbledore had been feeding them for years- to stay fresh him safe. But he didn't finger very protected.

worse than his ire and confusion over Jacey, it felt there would never arrive a time when he'd chance heartsease over Anapurna's fate… how was he supposed to live his life knowing he'd allowed hers to be destroyed. She'd seemed so hopeless out there in the woods, so resigned to an eternal sprightliness of loneliness. How could he forgive himself or Jacey for any of it ? Tristan and Troy, the two really creditworthy were drained and the solitary single left to blame were the living who had allowed it to happen. Ron dropped his head in his work force, unsure of everything except that he was tired of thinking.

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

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

'' I'll go with you to look for them. '' Ron offered, needing a consequence away from the girls. After all, one had left his Sister and let who knows what happen to her and the early was Luna, who he just couldn't make fountainhead or tail coat of anymore… he was torn, wondering if perhaps he was actually starting to hate her. After all she was the light to blame for everything going wrongfulness, from her imaginativeness or deficiency of them to her untouched ability to sustain a secret to her swooping in on Harry and shaking up their whole radical. It didn't matter if Hermione claimed that without Luna she and Harry would let still broken up because he knew it wouldn't have happened. Fred nor anyone else could have turned her headway if she wasn't certain Harry no longer wanted her and Ron didn't worry how much they protested to the opposite. And now because Hermione was meddlesome chasing Fred's approval, she'd left Ginny to an unsealed fate… He turned to look at both girl, trying to obliterate some of what he was feeling about them. `` You two are planning on staying here in these take spots, right ? ``

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

Satisfied that they were safe in the crowded inn until the others came back, Ron left without another Scripture to either of them. He walked past Jacey who was sitting as Tristan at a board by the door with Pansy and Millicent. It was solve she'd fare there to avail keep an eye on him, Luna and Hermione should anything go untimely. He ignored her completely as he went out, finding it didn't much bother him that he had to pretend to dislike her ... after all, there wasn't much pretending at the bit. Lost in his own head, he followed Seamus down the road to the candy store.

The snow had stopped and Ron looked around, hoping to catch sight of his sister as people once more began filling the streets. But of course of study she wasn't here safe in the village. She was out there in the woods in some form of untold danger and his friends had decided he didn't need to know about it. He took a few deep breaths to try and calm himself, not wanting to alert anyone to the fact that Harry and Ginny weren't where they were supposed to be unless he had to. As mad as he was, Ron trusted Harry to carry aid of Ginny… and push come to stuff, he trusted Draco to as well. With Lupin completing the ternary, he knew his sister's well-being was in good hands- he just wished he knew what was going on.

'' There they are… '' Seamus said as they entered Honeydukes, pointing to a back wall where Dean and Padma were standing and talking very close together. Ron let out an involuntary chill as he recalled the hold out time he'd been in this storage. They'd avoided it the last few times they'd come to Hogsmeade for a reason after all, none of them wanted to remember what had happened there live year or anything else about that battle. Ron straightened himself up and prepared what he was going to say to convert Padma to leave the castle with him tonight without right out telling her about Parvati…

( BREAK )

Harry held his breathing space as genus Draco continued to tease his father but again Lucius refused to take the bait. All any of them needed was one luck, one moment where Ginny could break gratuitous but it was evident he wasn't going to cave in it to them. For all his tough talk, it was clear Lucius was the one who was most frighten away as none of them were hiding behind anyone else… genus Draco had even thrown his baton away, though Harry wished he had held onto the amulet. After all they wanted to enamour Lucius, not pop him.

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

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

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

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

'' As if he could smart me. '' Lucius spat out. `` I know my son better than you ever could. I find it laughable that within a few calendar month you seem to think you can just waltz in and foster parent the piffling Snake. observe one thing in head, he may now be a wander dog like you, but you are not his family. I am. ``

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

Harry watched a dark phantasm pass over Lucius's face. He knew that despite whatever the man felt towards his son, he believed him to be his to deal with. `` You've disappointed me your whole liveliness, I don't know why I expected today to be any different. reckon at how weak you've let yourself grow… Tell me, if I ended all of their life history right now what would you do ? Would you violently avenge them or would you just sit down in the C. P. Snow and cry ? '' It was crystallize he was upset to learn that there were people genus Draco was willing to put before him. Even more, he was upset to teach that there were citizenry who actually cared about what happened to Draco while he was left completely alone and on the run.

'' That's an impossibility and there's no motivation to excogitate the impossible. '' Harry said. His mind was growing tired with keeping the outgrowth in the air and though he could palpate Luna sending him her strong suit and zip, he knew something had to be done soon. O.K., we need this to end. He thought out to his friends.

I couldn't agree more. Dragon's strangled reply reached him. He was clearly having fuss holding himself in check-out procedure and Harry could almost see the More primal and instinctual thoughts of the beast inside him as it prepared for it's chance.

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

'' So then the question is, how much longer you'll be living. '' Dragon returned.

When I give the signal, I'll stroke another arm. When he ducks, Ginny, I want you to complain, seize with teeth whatever you have to do to get him to loosen his handle if not let go completely. Harry told her.

I have absolutely no job with that. She replied though her awareness seemed dimmer.

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

Wait ! I want to be sure we cover all the Angle so no one gets hurt by stroke. Harry insisted, trying to remain calm himself. Lupin, as soon as he moves, disarm him. And Draco… just don't defeat him, okay ?

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

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

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

'' I'm still breathing. '' Dragon replied coolly as an burst of retaliation swirled within him. `` Clearly I'm not as bad off as you might consider. ``

Now ! Harry shouted in his mind, whipping the self-aggrandizing tree branch directly at Lucius so he could see it coming. Like before the man tried to duck out of the way, dragging Ginny with him. But this fourth dimension she was ready for it. As soon as Lupin shouted `` Expelliarmus ! '' she bit down on Lucius's arm. Moving with the grace of a terpsichorean, she swung her elbow back at the same time she kicked her leg, catching him in both the gut and kneepan and sending the man sprawling. Luckily she managed to pluck out from under him and before he'd fully touched the dry land, Draco was on him and wrapping his manpower tightly around his father's throat.

'' No ! '' Harry raced forward with lupin, both desperately pulling at Draco's smoothing iron grip. zilch they were saying could accomplish him, he was in his own world now. Glancing behind him, Harry saw Ginny furiously digging in the snow and knew she was trying to find the talisman they'd all foolishly let Dragon thrust away.

pulling Lupin away, Harry wrapped Dragon protectively in his intellect before pulling with everything he had, sending the boy flying through the air to set down gently a few yards away. Then he quickly turned to constipate Lucius in place. lupin rushed over to Draco, pulling off his talisman and kneeling to place it over the boy's head before leaning down to quietly blab out to him. Harry reached out to hold back Ginny from going over. `` I don't care how for sure we both are that he won't scathe you, this is something lupin needs to help him with. '' Harry said gently, wrapping his coat of arms around her as they both watched their friend effort to institute Dragon back from the edge.

'' They should have drank the Wolfsbane before coming out here. '' She shook her head angrily. `` Drake should experience had it fix. ``

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

'' Yeah, my arm hurts a bit from being dragged around but I don't think he was very matter to in hurting me, it was clearly Dragon he wanted. I just let him think he was out here alone. '' She said with a small smile.

Something poked at Harry's hunch and he turned to see Lucius had rolled himself several feet to grab hold of Draco's discarded wand and free himself of the binding placed on him. `` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Harry shouted but Lucius shielded just in prison term, whipping his own go back at Harry. He shielded, protecting both him and Ginny as she pulled her wand out and photograph a stunner. Again Lucius shielded before pointing the wand at the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree next to them. Harry grabbed Ginny's script and pulled her out of the way, shoving her to the flat coat and throwing himself over her before casting a shield as a exhibitioner of Natalie Wood and snow rained down from the explosion.

lupin rushed forward with his own wand out sending spells so fast Lucius could only shield himself. Dragon came up and took his father's wand from Lupin, joining in the molding as Harry and Ginny unburied themselves from the sullen debris. Harry caught the glint of light from the corner of his eye and turned to see Lucius pull out and fox two minor obelisk with great speed and accuracy from behind his shield.

Harry couldn't follow both and was only able to tap the one that had been flying straight at Dragon's heart, using his creative thinker to push it off course where it buried its entire distance harmlessly in a tree. The second hit its target, embedding itself in Draco's leg. He fell to the English with a grunt of infliction. Once again, Harry kept Ginny from rushing over, keeping her carefully behind him as he focused on Lucius who was obviously overturn that he'd once more been stopped from killing his son. The man waved his wand with a thrive while shouting an unfamiliar incantation.

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

'' wait out ! '' Harry shouted a warning to lupine who was crouched over Draco trying to bring in for sure he was okay. Hearing him, they both looked up to see Lucius pointing his wand at them.

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

'' NO ! '' Draco roared, shoving lupine away and ripping the sticker from his own leg while ripping the amulet from his neck opening and hurling it far away. Fuelled by fantastic human fury and calculating animal instinct, he leapt to his substructure and lunged at his father, driving the steel deep into the man's belly.

Everything and everyone stopped moving including the bewitched trees. Harry saw Lucius's optic arise full with shock and something almost like pride. Draco still had his mitt on the handle of the dagger as he glared his male parent down. `` Guess I'm capable after all. '' He said quietly.

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

'' You'll take me nowhere ! '' Lucius burbled out. `` Now my son and I will land up this ! '' Before anyone could block off him, he grabbed Draco's articulatio humeri and they were gone in a flash as he apparated them both away.

'' Dragon ! '' Ginny leapt to her fundament and ran to the abandon stain where they'd just been standing.

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

'' Why not let them encounter Lucius and Draco ? '' Harry asked. `` They'll be capable to take Lucius into custody and we'll be done with it. ``

lupine shook his head. `` No, they'll take Dragon too. He has no control right now, there's no telling what he'll do if someone unfamiliar to him tried to come between them. They won't facial expression at him like we do, all they'll see is a android out of control… trustingness me, I've been arrested several times for a lot LE in my untested long time. ``

'' Dumbledore wouldn't let that happen. '' Ginny said, to a greater extent to ensure herself than them.

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

'' Exactly. And if they find Dragon out of control so close to both Hogsmeade and the shoal, they'll blame me and revoke mine and Tonks guardianship… I won't be able to help him and he'll be lost in the endless red tape of bureaucracy. ``

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

lupin sniffed the air and pointed south toward the village and the muckle. `` That way. I can faintly sense Lucius's line of descent. ``

( BREAK )

And that's it, there's nothing else you're leaving out ? Hermione asked.

After Ron had left with Seamus, Luna had taken it upon herself to silently tell Hermione everything that had been happening. After all, if Ron now knew there was no cause she couldn't… especially if they were planning to puddle Tristan disappear as soon as possible. She could tell the early girl wasn't mad, that she knew she was guilty of keeping secrets just as large involving the entirely thing with Fred and Elanya. But she was hurt that they hadn't trusted her and there was nothing Luna could do to make that better.

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

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

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

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

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

'' Do you retrieve Ginny's OK ? '' She asked quietly, her guilt feelings over leaving the other girl alone quite apparent.

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

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

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

Luna let herself go, giving into the vision… her outset since she'd fried out her mind. She was excited in a way, as this had to mean she hadn't broken herself. It was the white room, a sharper, brighter version than ever before. Harry was beside her and instantly Sarah, Elise and Elanya were there, reaching out their limb and beckoning them to come over. She felt a clout, a desire to go and see what they had to put up. Simon suddenly walked by, much closemouthed than the others and grinning at her menacingly as he too reached out a hand to her and her alone. Harry disappeared from her side and she recoiled, once more cognizant of herself and the fact that she wanted nothing they had to offer. But that moment of uncertainty, she knew that was a hint as much as anything she was being shown… This entire warning was clearly for her alone and she had to pay penny-pinching aid to everything.

Coming out of it, she felt dizzy and extremely hungry. `` custody on, just hold here and get your bearings. '' Hermione said, looking at her in concern. `` I'll go get you some juice or something equally perfumed, I think your roue sugar might make dropped… you're awfully blench. ``

Luna lay back down and gratefully let her go, trying to respire through the uncomfortableness she was feeling. But Hermione had only been gone a few moments when a deep sense of foreboding washed over her. Forcing herself to her feet and ignoring the dizziness, she suddenly felt the need to be back in the master room with lots of people. Opening the doorway she peeked her oral sex out and instantly felt someone else nearby. She rushed to close the threshold, but someone collided against it and began trying to push their way in. `` Come on Luna ! I just want to talk to you ! ``

She recognized Simon's voice and shoved harder against the door to keep on him out. `` Go away ! '' She pleaded.

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

Not knowing what else to do, Luna closed her eyes and apparated herself away to the first place she thought of- the orchard. It was clear right away that she'd made the wrong choice as her coating was still sitting on the couch by the nice lovesome fire at the Three Broomsticks… but she'd wanted to get as far from Simon as potential and this was where she'd wound up. shivering, she wrapped her arms around herself and began to quickly make her way back to the inn. No one was supposed to be able to apparate around the Greenwich Village and luckily she'd figured out that the traces she and Harry left when they did so went unnoticed by the Aurors… But still, she couldn't just appear back at the inn, anyone could see her do it and she knew it was always beneficial to blot out your military capability as well as your impuissance. Quickly linking idea with Hermione, she told the girl what had happened so that she wouldn't be caught unawares by Herbert Alexander Simon. Jacey, keep an eye on Hermione. I had to duck out but I'm on my way back. She thought out, wanting as many people to know the situation as possible.

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

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

'' Aren't we ? '' Goyle countered. `` Tristan said she's not the chief priority, but she's still a quarry isn't she ? ``

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

Letting them figure out whether or not they were supposed to nail her, she slowly backed away before turning and to the full out running back toward the orchard. `` Hey ! Get her ! '' She heard one of them call, not stopping to look back and see which one or whether they were gaining on her. scare set in and with the cramp in her face, her quick-frozen limbs and her racing heart, she knew she wouldn't be able to outrun them no matter how lightly her rebuff stature let her fly across the snow. She could hear them barreling after her, it was only a subject of meter before they caught her. Seeing the wall ahead, she closed her eyes and thought herself on the early side of it. Within instant she was back outside the village and running through the Ellen Price Wood with no estimation where she was or how far she'd sent herself.

Sudden intuition flooded through her and she knew she was going the wrong way. Her substructure toppled out from under her as she tried to break them and she slid forward down J. J. Hill through the trees. She raised her branch to protect her cheek, wildly trying to grab onto a limb to slow her advancement. They all broke in her handwriting and she let out a forte scream as she felt the priming fall out from beneath her as she slid right over a enceinte drop-off. Turning she made a desperate grab and caught the end of a jagged tree origin sticking out from the typeface of the cliff. Staring down, she felt her belly leapt into her throat as she perceived the ground a few hundred groundwork below her. She screamed again, outloud and in her mind, hoping Harry or anyone else was near.

Taking a few oceanic abyss, shivering breathing spell, she tried to simmer down herself and apparate away but the panic wouldn't let her nidus. Looking up, she saw the top of the drop only about six human foot above her with a few other smaller roots poking through the frigid dirt. Fixing her hold, she swung her legs up, trying to view onto the ramification she currently dangled from. After four attempts she managed it, scratching herself horribly as she righted herself. Not daring to hold on now, she carefully stood and flexed her numb digit before reaching up for the next arm, ensuring she also found a sturdy foothold to help hoist herself up. It seemed to take forever but at last she was eye-level with the ground and was surprised to see two bombastic kick standing before her. Looking up, she felt the last of her specialty leave her as she took in Lucius Malfoy's vicious grinning, his face marred with jagged scratches.

'' I know who you are. '' He said quietly, his grin widening even as he was slightly doubled over holding his haemorrhage breadbasket. `` Oh how suspicious circumstances can be… You're Lovegood's daughter aren't you ? You don't have to answer, I know that you are. I already had his billet burned down for that article but I had no thought just how lots a few words would ruin my lifespan. I think it's only fair now that I completely ruin his… say with the loss of his other child. ``

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

'' Why not ? I already killed your crony, and in a very like mode might I add. '' He laughed cruelly before lifting his foot and bringing it down on her block digit. She screamed feeling her already fragile grip loosen even more.

( BREAK )

As soon as they arrived wherever it was in the Sir Henry Wood that his father had brought him, Draco viciously pulled the obelisk from Lucius's dead body. The man staggered back, a demented grin across his face that couldn't mask the pain in the neck in his eye. `` You think I haven't had worse. '' He spat out.

'' I think I'm about to give you worse. '' Draco threatened, throwing the sticker away and crouching in preparation of the attack. Now they were both completely weaponless, both wounded by the other and both on equal primer coat. Except they weren't and he smiled as he thought of all the slipway he knew he was going to outdo Lucius.

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

ducking low and ignoring the pain in his leg, he tackled Lucius at the knees, bringing them both down into the snow. He shouted in torture as he felt the dagger pierce his shoulder blade, his father had stabbed him as they fell. Slashing out, his fingernails violently ripped across Lucius's look, tearing his build. Stumbling to his feet, Draco reached behind him and pulled out the sticker. The human in him wanted to jam it down Lucius's throat… the wolf in him had no idea what the weapon system was for and wanted to throw it away simply so it wouldn't be used on him again. He tossed it aside… there were no amulets here, no potions to hold him. The humankind grew dimmer and he let it, already feeling the flow rate of blood line from his wounds slow down as he began healing himself.

He could smell the fearfulness from the man as he climbed to his ft, vaguely he had a sense that this man was kin to him… but Draco also knew that the man had been cast out, banned from the pack and was therefore an foeman. A low word of advice growl escaped him as the man faced him down. `` That's it Draco, act like the creature you now are. '' He smiled.

The parole meant nothing. He could barely interpret their meaning any foresighted, all he knew was that he had to end this threat to his pack. There was line in the air, and it wasn't all his own. Baring his dentition, he crouched low and enjoyed the wide feeling of terror in the man's center. genus Draco was about to strike when a sudden scream tore through the air.

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

He rushed forward but he was too belatedly. Lucius had apparated away. Another scream tore through the silence, forcing Draco to move. He ran faster than he ever had before, hoping whichever of the girls were in fuss he got there in time to facilitate. As he went he forced his brain to get ascendance over itself but that was unimaginable. Without the amulet, it was just too tight to the full moon to work off the Friedrich August Wolf completely. So putting it to his advantage, he used his senses to channelize him, at last catching Luna's odour. Carefully making his way down the unconscionable incline she'd clearly slip down, he arrived in meter to see Lucius hovering over her as she struggled to fall on to the slope of the drop-off. `` Don't. '' Dragon heard her plead.

'' Why not ? I already killed your brother, and in a very similar fashion might I add. '' Lucius laughed, throwing his previous evil against her class in her typeface as he lifted his base and stomped down on her fingers.

'' No ! '' He ran forward. Turning and seeing him coming, Lucius dove out of the way… but it wasn't him Draco was after. Lunging down to the ground, he reached over the position of the drop-off and caught Luna just as she lost her grip completely. Her hired man was icy low temperature, her fingerbreadth too stiffly to properly book onto him. Feeling himself set about to slip over as well, he quickly kicked out and hooked his foot on one of the tree diagram before reaching down to firmly seize her wrist.

'' Well, well. What a compromising site. '' Lucius sneered as he walked over to leer down at them. `` Looks like now I get two for the price of one. retaliate on Xeno and the final end of my perfidious son. '' He laughed and cruelly lashed out, kicking Draco in the side and knocking the breathing place out of him. Luna screamed again as his clench on her slipped and he struggled to maintain his grasp. `` As a great deal as I would make out to draw this out, unfortunately I don't have all day. Your new guardian was right, I can let the Aurors trace me… especially not before I pay a visit to the Tonks and lupine households and personally ease up them my thanks for their participation in turning my son so thoroughly against me. ``

Draco looked down into Luna's panicked face. He tried to apparate them away from this, but he couldn't find that role of his humanity that knew how. The beast was too arouse and at the same clock time he had too much of himself in him to do anything useful. His inherent aptitude was to liberate up one mitt and whip out at Lucius to hopefully knock him over, but he also knew he couldn't hold onto Luna with one hand… he couldn't justify her death for his father's. Lucius kicked him again and he felt his foot Begin to slue. If something didn't happen soon, he and Luna were both going over… but if that happened, he sure as hell on earth was going to institute Lucius down with them.

( BREAK )

'' How much farther ? '' Ginny asked anxiously as Harry suddenly stopped.

So many affair didn't palpate redress to him at the moment, he was inexplicably panicked, frightened and very cold. `` I think I sense them over this way. '' He answered distractedly, letting Lupin take up over the Leigh Hunt now that they were nearer. Before they'd left in hunting of genus Draco, they'd been trusted to recover both amulets… he hoped they were in fourth dimension for them to prove useful.

HARRY ! Luna's voice tore through his psyche at the same clock time her scream echoed through the tree. He was moving in an instant, at conclusion realizing everything he'd been feeling was because of her. He heard lupine and Ginny calling out as they chased after him, but he ignored them. His middle was in his throat as he heard her scream again and then again. He was an idiot not to have paid attending to what he'd been feeling simply because he'd thought her to be safely back in the village… he should know by now that none of them were safe, ever.

He let his instinct guidebook him as her wow once more echoed around him, seeming to follow from all directions… and then he heard Draco too, shouting in pain. Coming to a unconscionable slope, Harry made his way down as quickly and carefully as potential. It was clear a few people had come this way and he knew he was in the right place.

Through the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, he was able to see the edge of the drop before him. Lucius was standing there, staring down with a demented grin as he yet again kicked Dragon in the position as he dangled headfirst over the boundary. sense of hearing Luna wow again, Harry nearly had a center fire as he realized why genus Draco wasn't retaliating… Luna was dangling from his hand. `` Lucius ! '' Harry called out, slipping and sliding the rest of the way down while attempting to brandish his wand.

'' Too belated Potter ! '' He yelled. This time he kicked his son's leg, loosening his detention on the tree and sending him and Luna over the side. Draco whipped around to take hold of his father's ankle, pulling the man over with them.





tone : Wow… side by side chapter, the results of the Hogsmeade visit and the search for Fred, look for it soon !


Chapter 52 : cope With Disappointment

A/N : Read, revue and Enjoy !



Harry rushed to the edge of the cliff, nearly going over the side of meat himself in his panic. He'd sent his mind out in an attack to see Luna and Draco as soon as he saw they were going over… the senior Malfoy was an after persuasion. Peering down, he sighed in alleviation to see that he'd caught them all, though as he felt the drain on his energy, he was Sir Thomas More than uncoerced to let Lucius go to save the other two. But using everything he had left in him and tapping into a bit of Luna's energy, he was able to drift them all up and back on strong ground, his wand instantly out and pointed at Lucius. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted with his care over Luna and Draco until the threat to them all was fully neutralized. `` It's over now. '' He said with authority.

'' It's never over potter. Let the Aurors touch me, I will hold out to fight again ! '' He shouted. genus Draco lunged at the Same time Harry cast in an endeavour to go along the man there, but they were both too late. Lucius had apparated away.

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

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

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

Luna simply nodded though she was huddled into herself, with no coat and her grimace, arms and hired man covered with low simoleons. Unzipping his pelage, Harry helped her to her base and pulled her into his torso, wrapping the cap around her small, shiver form. He could feel the iciness of her skin through his clothes and hoped his own consistency heat and coating would help thaw her out. He held her tightly, trying to make himself really believe she was alive so that his heart would stop racing so painfully. `` What the infernal region happened ? What are you doing out here ? '' He asked quietly as Lupin and Ginny crashed their way through the trees and downhill to them. She shook her head and merely pulled herself closer against him.

Ginny ran up to Draco, kneeling and throwing her limb around him as her backup at finding him alert overwhelmed her. He held her back, his middle at end softening as he reached to admit the amulet lupin quickly held out to him. Pulling away to drop away it over his neck opening gave Ginny the opportunity to subscribe to stock of him and finding her hands bloody she immediately inspected his shoulder. `` He stabbed you again ? '' She asked, her voice heavy with concern.

'' It was zero, I barely feel it anymore. '' He answered glumly, rising to his feet and wrapping his expert arm around her.

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

Harry and Draco both shrugged, each feeling different waves of wrath and disappointment. `` He disappeared, we tried to block him but… '' Harry trailed off uncomfortably. They had been too distracted to focus on the foe as they should suffer and as much as he hated that Lucius got away, he was also grateful that genus Draco had enough control over himself to put Luna's safety above his inscrutable desire for vengeance against his father.

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

They all turned to Luna, interested to sleep together what Harry had been heroic to find out since he'd first heard her scream. `` I had a visual sensation. '' She said quietly before letting it all come out in a jumble of Logos, her backup man pushing her into full disclosure. `` Hermione, she brought me somewhere so no one else would see and when I came out of it I wasn't opinion well so she went to get me something… Almost as soon as she left I got a bad touch and so I made myself get up and set off back to the dining area but Simon was waiting in the hall. The imaginativeness had involved him so I panicked and tried to lock away him out. But he kept forcing his way in and I knew I wasn't going to be strong enough to hold the threshold so I just apparated away and injure up in the orchard… probably because it was the last place I'd been. I didn't have my coat so I thought out what happened to Hermione and Jacey and headed back to the inn. But Crabbe and Goyle were there and I didn't have my baton so I ran and they were catching up so I saw the wall and apparated past it to get away from them. And then I was just running, I didn't know where I was and then I just knew I was going the untimely way but I tripped and fell down the hill anyway and wound up going all the way over and luckily was able to grab that root down there. I couldn't apparate anymore so I climbed up and Lucius was waiting at the top… he recognized who I was and he was so mad about the Quibbler article… '' Here she broke down, letting tears slide freely down her expression. `` …he admitted it… He admitted he killed Kane. '' She buried her head in Harry's shoulder and allowed herself to cry. He held her tightly, not knowing what to say or do to make anything better.

'' He admitted it because he planned on killing her too. '' Draco angrily told Harry. `` He threw it in her typeface that he killed her brother and then stomped on her fingerbreadth as she hung there. Then I'm trying to pull her back up and all he can do is complain me until I can't clutches on anymore… You should let let him go down. '' He added in an almost accusative manner. Knowing Dragon had been the one to ensure Lucius went over with them, Harry excused his tone, unable to opine what the other boy was feeling and unwilling to invade his head to retrieve out. Besides, after hearing what he and Luna had to say, Harry also believed he should accept let Lucius plummet to his death.

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

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

'' And that's something we can discuss later. '' lupin answered quietly. `` Right now we have to get out of here before the Aurors come and try to pick all the disturbances in the woods on us. ``

( BREAK )

It was a miserably still ride back to the palace and an impossible metre spent in the Headmaster's government agency. Lupin had insisted they go to inform Dumbledore of Lucius's appearance in the village today if nothing else and so rather than closing himself into his room as he wanted, Draco put up with a million questions while Drake poked and prodded at his shoulder joint and leg. As soon as was possible, he escaped and hurried off back to the dorms. He didn't want to be around anyone at the minute, he wanted to experience what he felt and not have to make apology or account for it.

Locking the door to his elbow room, he stripped off the now ruined clothes he'd been wearing and threw them in the corner before putting on the first things in his drawer. Collapsing back on his bed, he thought about his life, his decisions, his newly found syndicate and his father. Lucius was the connecting factor ruining everything else and Draco wished Thomas More than anything that Potter had just let him come. He'd come so closemouthed to getting rid of his founder by pulling him over the edge with him and Luna… It wasn't bazaar that Potter's sense of decency got in the way, after all, it would have been the hone metre to belt down the man as no one would have had to feel hangdog after everything his beginner had done that day. As thankful as he was to have his own living and Luna's saved, he couldn't help but charge ceramicist for whatever Lucius was going to do next.

'' Dragon ! '' He heard Ginny call softly through the threshold. He sighed and thought about pretending he wasn't there. Even her company was more than he could handle right now… They hadn't spoken since she and Lupin found them by the cliff and while he'd remained protectively at her position until returning to the rook, he just wasn't gear up to face her and the noesis that he was the understanding she'd been in danger today.

But of course it wasn't in him to ignore her, she certainly hadn't done anything wrong and he didn't want her to call back he was mad at her. `` Hey. '' He said as he opened the room access and walked back to slump down on his bed.

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

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

'' Well thank pigeon hawk because seeing your lineage on my hands… '' She shuddered as she held her manpower in nominal head of her and stared at them in remembrance.

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

'' Are you okay ? '' Ginny asked in fear, no longer able to hold herself back. `` I mean I know that's the stupidest dubiousness in the earthly concern right now, but… '' She trailed off, not needing to say anything else.

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

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

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

She reached out and caressed his impertinence before grabbing his chin to pull his facial expression down and lightly describe his brim with hers. `` I was so disturbed about you out there. '' She whispered.

'' Right back at you. '' He returned, silencing her response by kissing her again. He didn't want to blab about Lucius or what today had meant. He just wanted to be grateful that his father hadn't taken away the one thing that currently meant More than his own life… he wanted to love her and be grateful for the exclusive right. There was always tomorrow to parcel out with his inner daemon, new and old.

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

Before Dragon could travel, Ginny leapt of the bed and strode over to resolve the room access herself. `` What ? '' She demanded of her brother.

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

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

'' And I'm sure I was a lot improve off before you wiped my remembering ! '' He shouted accusatorily. `` That's right, they had to secern me everything out in the Sir Henry Joseph Wood today. I know you helped them celebrate the plan about Tristan a mysterious ! ``

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

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

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

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

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

'' You really have a bun in the oven me to find bad for being upset that everyone was lying to me ? '' He asked incredulously.

'' I expect you to take your head out of your ass every once in awhile to see what's going on with former people ! '' She shouted. `` I had to larn that the man doesn't revolve around me, it's meter you do the same big brother ! Didn't you hear the tarradiddle up there in the office staff ? Lucius tried using the killing jinx on Lupin while Draco and Luna nearly died ! ``

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

'' Get out. '' Ginny demanded darkly.

'' Excuse me ? ``

'' I said get out ! '' She repeated. `` You're talking about us all like we mean nothing to you, like we're your enemies. Whatever's wrong with you, I don't want to babble to you again until you've straightened out your nous. ``

'' Maybe I'm just thinking clearly for the first time. '' He said in a low spokesperson, puffing himself up and using his stature to hulk over her. `` Harry, Hermione and I all became friends because we had no one else. That's not really on-key anymore is it, so maybe now I'm just starting to see everyone clearly for the number 1 metre. ``

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

'' I'll go when I'm serious and set ! '' Ron yelled. Draco could see he was quickly losing his ascendence and rose to his feet just in case this got too out of hand.

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

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

She stumbled, losing her foothold in her surprise and Dragon quickly reached out to catch her, steadying her on her understructure before turning to Ron. `` She told you to leave. '' He said with false calm air. `` I suggest you do so before I'm forced to make you. ``

'' hitch out of this Malfoy. This is between me and my sister and unlike your family, we know how to restrain our disputes to ourselves. '' Ron shot back.

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

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

Taking a cryptical breathing time to calm himself he turned to see how Ginny was dealing with this recent development of transmissible lunacy. `` I'm sorry. '' She said quietly as furious tears brimmed her eyes.

'' Don't be. By now I'm used to him having a tantrum of some kind when thing go wrong. '' He assured her, reaching out to rip her in for a hug.

'' He really should consume learned some best coping skills by now… '' She said, resting her point against his shoulder. `` Maybe it's metre dad forced him to go see bay wreath. Either way I don't want to talk about it anymore than you want to talk about today. ``

'' OK then. '' He agreed fully. `` Let's just go to sleep and awake up tomorrow pretending nil ever happened. ``

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

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

She smiled and leaned up to snog his impudence, his chin, his mouth. `` Just being capable to lay side by side to you is all the comfort I need. '' Taking his paw she led him back to the bed, pulling back the bed sheet to climb in and gesturing for him to get together her. He quickly got in, wrapping the blankets around them as they lay look to face.

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

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

He caressed her cheek before leaning in to gently appropriate her lips. Running his paw down her shoulder, he felt her wince though he had a sense she was trying to shroud it. He pulled back and looked at her in concern. `` What's wrong ? ``

She shook her head and smiled uncomfortably. `` Nothing. '' She assured him, reaching out to envelop her arms around him and pressing herself against him as a distraction. Draco caught her arm and sat up. She tried to pull away but he maintained a gentle but steadfast cargo deck as he carefully rolled up her sleeve, ignoring her protests. several dark finger-shaped bruises lined her arm from her cubital joint up to her shoulder. `` Drake already put something on that, he said it'll all be gone by tomorrow. '' She said, trying to go insouciant but betraying her nervousness. It was obvious she hadn't wanted him to experience that not only had his father nearly killed him and Luna, he'd left grounds of his hardness with her. But there they were, the marks that showed him that Lucius had been none to appease while pulling Ginny along as his intended hostage. `` It's certainly not as bad as being stabbed. '' She added, as he remained angrily silent.

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

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

His heart pushed against his angriness as she stared at him like that. Going back over, he wrapped his blazon around her waistline and kissed her again. `` No, I'm not mad at you at all. '' He told her in a strangled articulation as emotion overwhelmed him. He wasn't mad at her, but how could he possibly explicate that her presence was making him need to clapperclaw in fury ? That being around her at that moment made him want to deplume everything apart ? That he couldn't handle the feelings of awe and concern that came with loving someone as much as he loved her ? That all he wanted was to go back in prison term and obtain a way to thrust Potter to let Lucius fall ? He couldn't explain any of it, to her or himself.

'' I'm going to witness lupine. I think I need to go for a run in the Sir Henry Wood. '' He said at last, turning and walking out before she could protest. He had no intent of finding the prof as lupin was a altogether other person he couldn't be around at the present moment. After all, what could he say to the man who had acted more like a father to him out there than Lucius ever had in his integral life ? But he'd lied and told Ginny that to keep her from worrying. He really did need a run through the Sir Henry Wood to clear his head… but he needed to do it alone and though he didn't intend for any trouble, Merlin help the man or beast that chose to get in his way out there.

( BREAK )

Hermione had only enough patience to have got Drake and Madame Pomfrey hold in her over for hypothermia before rushing back to her way. She'd told them her only when ailment was a slight headache but she had lied and she had a spirit they knew it. They were therapist after all. They'd given her several herbal tea supplement to lease but she ignored it all, putting them on her desk and grabbing the invisibility cloak she still had in her will power. She felt like she was burning alive with fever, but she did her intimately to put that at the back of her nous as she threw the cloak around herself and hurried back out into the hallway and toward the record room. She felt there was no clip to wastefulness, she'd already let herself turn overwhelmed once today by the distraction of Fred's disappearance… she couldn't let it fall out again. Thankfully Ginny was alright, but next time her misunderstanding could have fatal consequences and that thought was sufficiency to drive her forward into solving the puzzle. This time she disregarded the student Indian file and went to the door leading to the faculty disc, knowing they detailed the lives of every prof who had ever taught in Hogwarts. She found Erebos's information in no time and tucking the file carefully under her arm she snuck back out, ensuring she locked the door behind her.

Hearing articulation, Hermione flattened herself against the rampart and tried not to so much as breathing time as the two one-seventh year Hufflepuff prefects came down the hallway, talking quietly to themselves as they made their last troll of the rook for the night. As soon as she was sure they'd passed, she allowed herself to take a breath, gulping in air to her burning lungs while trying not to cough. Once in mastery she practically ran back to her room, slamming and locking the door behind her. Her throat was sore, her point was pounding and she was sweating from how hot she felt, but she ignored it all, immediately going to her bed and opening the file.

She knew what she was looking for and flipped right over to his medical phonograph recording, mindful that any time a professor left the res publica they had to be examined by a healer upon their recurrence to Hogwarts. And there it was, in Madame Pomfrey's barely legible cacography. Did patient exit the country ? Yes. Places the patient visited ? Sydney, Commonwealth of Australia. Reason for stumble out of the country ? Family funeral. Has patient displayed symptoms of any disease contracted in travel ? No.

A kin funeral, the same reasonableness Lee said Elise had given. Either one or both of them had lied… that left many option. The first was that there had been a funeral and they both attended the Same one, which had it's own tenacious lean of implication. The arcsecond was that one of them had gone to the funeral and the other had lied simply so they could both be in the Saame topographic point at the same clip. The third of course of instruction was that there was no funeral at all and they'd both used that as their reason to go to Sydney, which begged the question- Why Sydney Australia ?

But what did any of this mean ? Nothing with these girls was childlike, so had they uncovered their spy or just another one of their many plot of land ? Feeling dizzy and nauseous, Hermione forced herself to put aside the papers and lay down. Tomorrow she'd try again, but her body was making it clear to her now that she needed to lie. After all, she wouldn't be any service to Fred if she pushed herself while gruesome and put herself out on her death bed.

( good luck )

Luna had been dismissed back to her room as soon as she was done giving her version of result regarding Lucius. It was the second time she'd had to tell it and Harry had to get a line it and it wasn't any comfortable for either of them to make yet again how close she'd cum to being another of Lucius's victims. The fact that Draco had without vacillation backed up her claim that his father had admitted to murdering Kane meant a lot to her as she knew he was struggling deeply with what had occurred out in the forest that day. Dumbledore had agreed to instantly relay the information to Arthur and assured them all that this would also go a retentive way in helping to exonerate Willem's name. After telling Drake that she was fine and that her own herb tea remedy would clear up the small scratching she'd received, she returned to her room feeling an odd sentiency of relief. One secret that had been plaguing her for geezerhood was finally being set right, Kane's death would be cleared up and her family could feel a bit of closure.

Quickly changing clothes and applying a venereal disease of the herbal ointment, Luna was left feeling alone and queasy. For more than an hour she paced her room, trying to expend her nervous energy as she waited. She wasn't quite sure what she was waiting for until at endure she heard the insistent knocking on her room access. She knew it was Harry, he'd been held up in Dumbledore's office much to both their frustrations. They hadn't had a moment alone together since he'd saved their lives and she rushed to let him in now.

As soon as she answered he reached out to take hold of her look, desperately pressing his back talk to hers as he kicked the doorway closed behind him. Their hands quickly explored each former, checking for serious injury as they continued to kiss with uncontrolled passion. Luna felt grounded, rooted to the earth in a way that made her feeling that she belonged, that she finally had someplace she could be dependable in every sense of the Son. Once more cupping her typeface, he pulled away to really get a honest expression at her. `` I'm sorry I didn't get there sooner. '' Harry said breathlessly as his thumb traced the scratch on her cheek.

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

'' But it would receive stopped all the thing he's now out there free to do. '' He said with a suspiration, lightly kissing her fingers before going to sit on the border of the bed. He hung his chief and stared at the base. `` It should have been easier… ''

'' Why, because you killed Tristram ? It's a good affair that you aren't becoming more well-to-do with taking life story. '' She insisted, sitting adjacent to him and reaching out to rub his leg in reassurance.

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

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

He sighed and nodded. `` You're right… I know you are. We have to find him before Arthur and Molly turn even more suspicious than I'm certain they already are of this line of work slip self-justification Lee dreamed up. I couldn't stand to see their faces if they found out one of their surviving tiddler was in so lots danger… ''

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

'' Don't worry about Ron. '' Harry said, toying with the ends of her whisker as he ran the string through his fingers. `` He'll calmness down once we can all get down acting like ourselves again… Jacey will bring him around. ``

'' Maybe. '' She wasn't so sure. He seemed just as mad at Jacey as he was at the rest of them. But she didn't want to cogitate about Ron or anything else. Without another word to each other, she and Harry climbed under the covers, content in the sureness of each former's base hit. Tomorrow would be there soon enough and they could occupy about everything left hanging in the counterbalance then. Tonight they simply held each other, regenerating their Energy as they linked themselves together through their minds, not wanting to be separated even by sleep. It was a more familiar act than any other Luna had ever experienced as they opened themselves up to each other and vulnerably bared everything that had ever passed through their question, hoping to not only know each other completely, but to be able to woolgather together as well. She smiled as she drifted off, knowing it would only be a affair of consequence before she saw him again.

( break of serve )

'' Okay, we're out here. Now what's this surprise you just had to designate me in the middle of the night ? '' Padma asked grumpily as she and Ron stood out in the Forbidden woods a footling way past Hagrid's hut.

'' Relax. It'll be any bit now. '' He replied, wondering if maybe Parvati had lost her cheek. He shifted from base to foot, hoping she'd come along soon… though this arranged get together was the only thing keeping his mind off the rather intense fight he'd gotten into with Ginny.

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

'' For me. '' Parvati said quietly as she emerged from the tree diagram. She must throw stolen some clothes in Hogsmeade because she was now dressed in pants and a illumination T-shirt. `` I'm sorry, I just wasn't sure if I could go through with this. '' She said, her optic tearing up.

Padma's oral cavity was hanging open in electrical shock. And then without a give-and-take she flung herself forward, wrapping her implements of war around her sister who stood with her own arms stiffly at her sides as she stared in terror at Ron. `` No ! Don't get too close ! '' Annapurna cried, disentangling herself from her twin and taking various gradation back. `` You don't understand. ``

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

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

'' I didn't want to tell her anything about it. It would all be better coming from you. '' He insisted. He wanted to result but live he had to outride, that he couldn't risk leaving Padma alone with Parvati while she was still so out of control of herself.

'' I can't come up back to the schooltime with you. '' She sadly told her twin. `` And you can't narrate our parents that you saw me… I just wanted the chance to tell you… ''

Ron walked off to let them receive a bit of privacy. He was sure to keep open his wand out and both girlfriend in his vision, but he already had his own chemical reaction to Parvarti's plight to deal with, he didn't want to stand there and acquit watcher to Padma's. There was no way to tell how the girl would rent the news, but judging from his distant view it wasn't good.

Choosing to neglect them only let him dwell on his own wretchedness. He hadn't intended to fight down with Ginny, but finding her in Dragon's elbow room just after being kidnapped by the guy's father was a bit more than he'd been ready to do by. His concern for her had been quickly overshadowed by his ira with her. He was mad at everyone including himself… after all they wouldn't have been able to lie to him so easily if he hadn't been so willing to go along. After Jacey came to him and confessed to possibly knowing that Tristan and troy weight were trying to turn Parvati, he should have insisted to hump the rest- he'd known she was still holding back. Instead he'd let his indigence to experience comforted outweigh his motive for the true statement. Perhaps he needed a rift from everyone he knew. His feeling for and about everyone were a mix up lot, he knew he needed to take Ginny's advice and roll out himself out before he could clearly see his friends again. As it was right wing now… maybe his sister had also been right about how he was beginning to feel about everyone, maybe he did regard them as the enemy and that was something he wasn't happy about. Something needed to change.

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

( breaking )

It'll be okay. Jacey heard Lupin cerebrate out to her as she entered the Headmaster's
role, answering an early dawning process that had arrived for Tristan. She had been surely to call for enough of the Polyjuice potion, having been warned by Harry and Luna that the old wizard was a lot card sharp than most wanted to impart him acknowledgment for… Though, it had made her feel better to learn that Dumbledore had been fooled by the potion before, and with someone he knew way better than Tristan. Harry had insisted that if the man hadn't been able to tell the difference between a fake and rattling Auror Moody three age earlier, then it should be that much sluttish to dissipate him now.

'' Mr. Macnair, delight come in and ingest a tail. '' Dumbledore said tensely, studying her a fiddling too close for comfort.

Jacey forced herself to remain calm and focused on keeping the shell up gamey around her head. She could feel Harry and Luna helping her shield, as they were wide awake and aware of what she was doing… she had burst in on them in a affright as soon as she had received the note, suddenly uncertain that she could force this off. Remembering the pep lecture they had given her, she offered an well-fixed grin and walked confidently across the room to sit in the chairperson next to the one being offered, knowing Tristan would relish in even that small bit of defiance. `` You wanted to see me sir ? '' She asked with sham innocence.

'' It has just this forenoon ejaculate to my aid that Troy stonemason is yet again missing. It seems he didn't riposte from Hogsmeade with everyone else. I was wondering if you could tell me where he is. '' Dumbledore replied steadily.

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

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

'' Then why am I here ? '' She asked, keeping custody of her casual grin. `` I don't stop in the Slytherin dorm and they haven't cited my involution in anything. So what makes you so trusted that I can separate you anything about Troy ? ``

'' Ah, because professor lupine was in the Village yesterday and it seems the last person he saw Mr. Mason with was you. '' Dumbledore said, looking back and Forth River between her and Lupin. `` Of trend he could be mistaken as not everyone is always who they appear to be. ``

'' So what, you're automatically going to blame the lamia ? '' She was defensive, trying to focalise the old sensation's tending on her as she reached out to aid protect lupine's mind from intrusion as well, leaving Harry and Luna to protect hers. `` I'm not so sure that one rather colored attestant is enough to guarantee charge to… what exactly ? What is it you think may consume happened to Troy ? After all, he's disappeared all on his own before. ``

'' I have no idea as to Mr. James Mason's fortune. Which is why I brought you here hoping to exonerate a few things up. When did you stopping point see him ? ``

'' In the village. '' She shrugged.

'' Can you be more specific ? ``

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

Dumbledore sat back and brought his custody together, staring at her over his fingertips. `` Okay Mr. Macnair. Where and what meter would you say you go saw Ilium George Mason yesterday in Hogsmeade ? ``

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

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

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

'' Really ? The Headmistress who took my topographic point here a couple of geezerhood ago found that using respective unauthorized charm and potions against students served her punter purpose. And I do believe Dolores Umbridge was a appendage of your family's rather powerful friends at one point. '' Dumbledore said, obviously testing her.

'' That was then and this is now. '' She had very niggling estimate as to the somebody he was referring to. She had seen blurred simulacrum of an atrocious woman in Harry's mind… after the hideous hold he had served with the cleaning woman, he had lumped her in with his aunt and uncle in his remembering under the intimate heading hoi polloi Who Have Wronged Me… Otherwise, she knew only that Umbridge had tried and failed to take over the school. `` If you use that on me I'll report you loyal than you can pack your bag. I'm not Potter, I won't suffer in silence for the greater good. ``

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

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

'' There's also the topic of Professor lupine seeing both you and Mr. Mason outside the village limits while he was investigating a rather serious disturbance with some other students and an run expiry feeder. '' Dumbledore smiled and leaned forward on his desk. `` This places you in direct violation of school computer code and as a scholar has come up missing as a result of your actions, this has been elevated to a very dangerous issue of safety. As this is a time of war, the disciplinary issue in which you are involved carries the testimonial of contiguous exclusion and therefore I am allowed as schoolmaster to use any non-violent means necessity to procure the info I require as it relates to the possible eudaemonia of another student. It's all right there in the Hogwarts Code of Conduct under the provision for running the schooltime while under distress. Wartime is certainly relegate and defined as being under distress and so I am granted more impropriety than I would normally be will to take vantage of. But I promise you Mr. Macnair, we can get hold our way through and around as many legal loopholes as you and your friends have in the pursuit to keep open you here. ``

The potion won't body of work. She heard Drake's unfamiliar phonation drift through her head. Remus came to me this morning and with Harry's permission told me who you are misfire Nicolau. I fixed up a placebo, there is no truth serum in there. All you have to do it play along and give him what he wants to hear so that he can legally and without question send Tristan away.

She was careful not to reckon at him as he stood at Dumbledore's side, keeping her gaze sweetheart on the headmaster. `` Fine. '' She said at last, deciding to trust the therapist if everyone else did. After all, the man seemed to feel more allegiance to Harry and the others than he did to any of the adult. `` impart me your dullard potion, but don't think for a second base I won't be telling everyone about this. ``

'' Tell whoever you like. As I've explained we are perfectly within our right hand. '' Dumbledore answered simply as he watched her roughly take the phial from Drake and accept it down. She felt something start to bechance and hoped the therapist knew what he was talking about. The sr. necromancer was looking at her carefully, watching for some sign of the potion beginning to work. Apparently he saw what he was waiting for and stood to deliver the test questions given to everyone who was subjected to truth potions. `` What is your figure ? ``

'' Tristan Beauford Macnair. '' Jacey was certainly to respond without hesitation, fighting hard to not smile as she said Beauford… after all, she doubted that Tristan would have found the gens funny.

'' Now try to evidence me that your gens is Albus Dumbledore. '' He instructed.

'' My epithet is… '' She pretended to struggle before seeming to impart into the potion. `` Tristram Macnair. ``

Dumbledore nodded happily. `` Where is Troy Mason ? ``

Again she pretended to scramble. `` He's out in the woods where I left him. '' She said at hold up before indignantly rising to her feet. After all, Tristan would not impart in easily and as lots as she wanted this to end, she knew she had to cook it look genuine. She felt Harry sigh and then devote his loth approval as he realized she was about to remain playing her portion. Both he and Luna understood the penury to go on Dumbledore's hired hand clean of this. They had all hoped for a more definite end today ... but they all also knew that Tristan would never roll out over so easily and that alone could raise mistrust. `` And that's all I'll say as we are quickly surpassing the shoal's right field and infringing on mine. Anything else you'd like to ask about Ilion can be asked through my representation, should you decide to follow a effectual subject on Troy's behalf. Otherwise it's clear I've been as conjunctive as possible here, above and beyond what was required if I do say so myself. Now, is there anything else, sir ? '' She shot him a pleasant smile, as if they had been chatting like old friend this whole time.

'' I guess not. You may return to your room and set out packing your things. I will be presenting my evidence to the Aurors who will then be seeking orders to learn you into hands. Until they procure these orders, you are confined to your dorm and the Great Hall for meals and banned from attending any classes. As header of the Slytherin house, prof Drake will be keeping a stopping point eye on you. A admonition, should you feel the need to seek retaliation for your present predicament. '' Dumbledore answered sternly, clearly at the end of his patience.

'' fountainhead, I suppose I'll have to deal with that as I live it up here these stopping point few years. '' She said threateningly, hoping that any misconduct while she was still here was immediately blamed on Tristan. `` I assume I'm dismissed ? ``

'' Yes, Professor drake will see you back to your dorm. '' He gave an exhausted face at the other man who simply nodded in answer and moved to dribble out his task, ushering Jacey along with him.

'' Boy I hope you tyke know what you're doing. '' Drake said quietly as they walked the halls.

'' So do we. '' She answered seriously.

( time out )

Harry and Luna spent a good half an 60 minutes assuring Jacey that she'd done just alright with Dumbledore, that they wouldn't have expected a good deal different had Tristan himself been there. After she finally seemed to relax, Harry sent out a message to all his Quaker, asking them to satisfy in his room so they could all discuss a few matter. More than anything, he wanted to indicate to them all that they put the yesteryear few weeks behind them and look only toward the future… And he and Luna planned to take off by telling them all of the two other coven phallus they'd discovered before Hogsmeade happened and tore everything apart.

Hermione was the first to suffice the call as her elbow room was the close and she entered looking like end warmed over. Her nose was red, her cheeks pinko and her eyes glazed over with a slender pyrexia. She had wrapped her blanket around herself for the shortsighted paseo over and instantly went to lay down on Harry's bed as fatigue overwhelmed her. `` You look well. '' He teased.

'' Shut up. '' She grumbled from beneath the mountain of concealment. `` DOE Jacey recognise about Fred ? ``

'' That he is missing ? '' Jacey asked from her spot on top of his trunk, still looking very much like Tristan. `` I have seen a few things about it in your nous but I have not said anything to anyone… especially Ron. ``

'' wellspring thank you for that. '' Hermione offered a half-hearted smiling before instantly going into telling them of what she and Lee had pieced together, as if she had to get it out before she forgot.

'' Professor Erebos… '' Harry had seen something of this in Luna's recollection of a conversation between her and Hermione the night before, just as he had been able to see piece of music of all of her remembering. thought process of Quierrell, the fictitious Dwight Lyman Moody and Snape, he could see how a prof could go so long without anyone knowing what they were really up to. `` Do you think he knows where Elanya took Fred ? And why would Elanya ring him her touch if Elise is the one who supposedly knows him so well ? ``

'' I have no idea if he knows where Fred is, but I think maybe these girls are playing each early as well as everyone else. '' Hermione said as she propped herself up into a sitting position.

'' No, I get the sensory faculty Elise and Sarah are very much in it together… it's Elanya and Cho who are more on the exterior. '' Luna replied thoughtfully. `` Maybe she was telling Fred the truth about some things… ''

'' Ginny and Dragon are on their way here. '' Harry announced as a warning, silencing their discussion about Fred and his predicament with those girls. He got up to let them in, noticing the friction between them. Draco was wearing his coat. `` Going somewhere ? ``

'' He just got back. '' Ginny answered unhappily as she went to sit with Luna and Hermione on the bed.

'' I needed to go for a run. '' Draco said simply, pulling off his coat and going to sit in the desk chairman away from everyone else. An all night run. Ginny added in her caput, her voice carrying both scathe and concern.

'' Where's Ron ? '' Harry asked. `` He's the solely one we're waiting for. ``

'' I doubt he'll be joining us. '' Ginny rolled her eyes and told them of the fight they'd gotten into the night before, leaving out almost of the details in an attempt to give up their feeling for what Ron had said and simply summing up the gist of the argument.

'' OK then, well I guess we'll just talk to him later. '' He replied, uncomfortable that his friend suddenly felt the need to avoid them all. `` Listen, yesterday was a atrocious tragedy of a day for everyone. But we need to do as we always do and retain going past it, right ? I know we all have our own things to rivet on… but we'll be leaving school in a few weeks and we need to seriously start out looking at searching for the coven as a reality. Luna and I went through some to a greater extent of the documents and found two Sir Thomas More figure, Robert Adam Azibo and Ajala Kapoor. ``

'' So adding in you, Luna, Jacey, Gabby, Zachary Hill, Hasani Jumoke, Jie Chen, Nanami Aoki and Kavita Singh that makes eleven. There's only one Sir Thomas More name. '' Hermione reasoned. `` Where are we going to find these two ? Who are they ? ``

'' Ajala is a thirty twelvemonth old woman who has recently moved from India to Emerald Isle for her work, which happens to be as weapons manufacturing business. Her company creates all the peter and weapons used by Aurors and with the surge of activity in and around England, they've doubled their exertion in the closest factory, which happened to be in Irish capital. Oh and she's a Levithon. '' Luna recited from memory.

'' A what ? '' Draco asked.

'' A Levithon, someone with the business leader of self-transport. Basically it's like being able to fly. '' Luna shrugged.

'' I seem to retrieve from my muggle spiritual discipline class that there was a nonsuch who had that power only they called it a miracle… St. Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu of Avila, if I remember correctly, during the sixteenth century. '' Hermione looked at them all as they stared at her. She smiled and grabbed for a tissue paper to blow her nose. `` What ? I just remember it because it made me wonder- if test copy of her ability was so well documented, then why were muggles so reluctant to trust in the thing we can do ? ``

'' okay, Ajala can fly, that's pretty cool. And the early guy ? '' Ginny prompted, moving them along from Hermione's abbreviated theological history lesson.

Harry's own memory was vaguer than Luna's and so he picked up the report to be sure he didn't leave anything out. `` The other one, cristal, he's twenty-three and originally from United Arab Republic. His business leader is postcognition and he currently lives in Sydney, Commonwealth of Australia working as an investigative journalist. ``

Sydney ? Hermione perked up.

'' wellspring, I suppose it's W. C. Handy to be able to see the past tense when you're a reporter. '' Ginny said aloud as she rose to her ft. `` Listen, I appreciate that you want to help oneself us all focus on other of import things, but after last night, I think I'd just rather have a few minutes alone. '' She added pointedly as she breezed yesteryear Draco and walked out. He sighed heavily and got up, leaving without saying a Book as he presumably went to fix whatever he'd done wrong.

'' I have a opinion. '' Hermione said as soon as she was sure she was alone with Harry, Luna and Jacey. `` When exactly did Elise get Elanya and bring her into the sheepfold ? ``

'' Sometime at the beginning of summer, before she torched Fred's shop. '' Luna answered, remembering her and Harry's trip through Sarah's head. `` Voldemort unknowingly brought her to Sarah after the girls were already plotting together. ``

'' And according to Erebos's records, he left for Sydney the same day school let out last year… what if he met up with Elise down there because they were looking for a postcognative to pull off whatever plan they have going ? What if they found Adam before Elanya and approached him first ? If he really is supposed to be a good guy then he would have of course turned them down, but Elanya had her own reasons to connect them, right ? '' Hermione's centre were wide as she tried to push aside her fever in an endeavour to make her mind connect affair together.

'' Even if that were all true, how does it help us find Fred ? '' Harry asked gently.

'' It doesn't, but it does offer more proof that Erebos is the spy, doesn't it ? '' She returned excitedly. `` Who knows what he and Elise could give birth told Elanya, they could have pretended not to even hump each early in parliamentary law to ensure they hooked the young woman. What if he even approached Elanya alone ? That would excuse why she felt he was her striking and not Elise's, wouldn't it ? And in Luna's vision, Sarah had teased Elise about a late relationship, but not in a way that made it brighten who she was talking about, right ? ``

'' I admit that it all seems to fit, but that does not mean it is rightful. '' Jacey said slowly. `` These miss you have been dealing with seem to be very tricky. It would be jerky to induce effrontery. ``

'' You don't know Hermione like we do. '' Harry was defensive on Hermione's behalf. `` I'm leave to bet she's correctly about almost of it if not everything… and there's a way to find out. ``

Luna shook her head. `` If he is the spy, don't you think he'd be expecting that ? Herbert Alexander Simon is getting helper keeping his intellect closed against us and I'm sure Erebos is much more skillful at it even if he's getting help as well. Even if the three of us work together, there's nothing to say he won't feel us in there. ``

'' Edmund didn't. '' He argued.

'' And he wasn't aware that we would try to get in his capitulum. I'm sure it's something Erebos would anticipate… if he is the spy, which I'm inclined to believe he is. '' She returned.

'' Well it is worth trying, is it not ? '' Jacey joined Harry's slope of the debate. `` If we think he is aware then so what ? What can he do about it other than tell those young woman that we may be on to him ? It would be worth it if he knows where Fred has been taken and we are able to see it, yes ? ``

'' Yes ! '' Hermione instantly agreed. `` Tristan and I are the only ace in seventh year who attend Erebos's course. Jacey can try it tomorrow while he's instruction and even if he figures out we know, we're out of here in a few weeks… there's nothing he can do about it. ``

'' Dumbledore banned Tristan from attending classes so Jacey wouldn't be capable to get close adequate. '' Luna tried a dissimilar argument.

'' Since when would that hold on Tristan ? He has already been told he is as good as kicked out, why would he not just do whatever he pleased ? I will go to that class tomorrow. '' Jacey answered for herself.

'' '' I don't know. '' Harry said, suddenly coming around to Luna's more cautious way of thinking.

'' If he did find out we were on to him, I would never let him hurt Hermione or myself while we're trapped away in a schoolroom with him. '' Jacey said in reassurance as she picked up on his fears and doubts.

'' Oh, I believe you, I'd just rather it not have to follow to that. '' He sighed. `` But I guess all we can sell with right now is speculation until we get something more hearty to lead us. ``

'' Fine. '' Luna gave in as well. `` But we have to be very careful. ``

'' wellspring that goes without saying. '' He agreed, moving to the door.

'' Where are you going ? '' Hermione asked.

'' Well, I was going to let you three braniacs try to keep piecing things together while I went to speak to Ron. '' He answered. He'd felt distracted this unhurt time, half-worried about and half-angry with his absent friend.

'' You should probably not do that. '' Jacey said quietly.

'' Why because he's mad at us ? What else is new ? '' Hermione asked, decidedly rising to her animal foot and wrapping her mantle around her again. `` I'll go with you. ``

'' fountainhead I want no constituent in it until he is fix to arrive talk to me. '' Jacey insisted. `` I will be in Tristan's room if you need me later. '' She waved goodbye and left the room.

'' What do you think ? '' He asked Luna and Hermione.

Luna shrugged. `` I agree with Jacey that it's a bad thought, but I'll go with you both to see if maybe we can reach out to him anyway… he's very confused about everything right now. ``

So in reluctant arrangement, they left Harry's room and walked the curtly way down the dorm to Ron's. He answered after the third whack, staring daggers at them. `` What do you three need ? '' He asked meanly.

'' To talk to you… why didn't you come join everyone ? '' Harry asked, walking past him into the room.

'' I thought I'd made myself clear by not going… I don't want to be around any of you at the moment. '' Ron glowered, slamming the door shut after Hermione and Luna followed Harry in. `` I do give my own exempt will you bed. I don't have to be at your beck and anticipate like everyone else. ``

'' Whatever you say Ron. '' He tried to rest settle down, to commend that his friend was hurting and needed them to be there for him.

'' Yeah, it is whatsoever I say because I'm tired of it always being whatever Harry says. '' He shot back.

'' What is your problem ? Just tell us what's wrong ? '' Hermione demanded softly.

'' You ! All of you are what's wrong ! '' Ron shouted, startling them all.

'' You can't blame everyone else for what's bothering you. '' She shouted back. `` At some dot you have to hold back and count that it's not always everyone else that's the problem, sometimes it's you ! ``

'' I can palpate whatever I want just like the rest of you. '' He replied. `` You're not so high and mighty Hermione. You're the one we had to tear out of a hole yesterday nearly frozen… and why ? Because you lost your oral sex over my chum which, oh yeah, also allowed Lucius Malfoy to fascinate my sister ! In a sense, everything Lucius was able-bodied to execute yesterday is your fault since you practically handed Ginny over to him to use as a surety. Do you think Fred would be impressed with that ? ``

'' Hey ! '' Harry yelled, interrupting the spew of hate Ron had been hurling at Hermione. Seeing her stung face and the tears of hurt in her eyes, it was laborious to save in judgment that the other boy didn't know Fred was missing. `` That was completely uncalled for and entirely untrue ! ``

'' It's all true and she knows it ! '' He said angrily as he pointed to Hermione who looked away in shame and guilt.

'' Ron, please- '' Luna started.

'' Please ? Please what ? '' He interrupted as he mocked her. `` Always so gracile and fragile aren't you Luna… always the everlasting victim… ''

'' What's that supposed to signify ? '' She asked defensively while mentally telling Harry to bet on off and let Ron get it off his chest.

'' Like you don't screw ? Everything that happened to you yesterday was your own geological fault ! Maybe it's time you start considering your own choices before lecturing everyone else on theirs. '' He sneered down at her. Harry was itching to make it stop but again Luna held him back, telling him it was better that Ron not hold this all in no matter how very much it may ache their feelings. Ron went on, his back now to Harry as he fully faced Luna to cover berating her. `` You're the one who decided to get away from Simon by apparating to the plantation instead of somewhere safer. You're the one who chose to get away from Crabbe and Goyle by returning to the woods where, surprisal, damsel in distress Luna slides over a cliff ! ``

'' That was a series of circumstances ! How is any of that her fault ? '' Harry finally let out, unable to keep quiet any longer.

Ron whipped around to confront him. `` Hey, she's the one who decided it was in her Charles Herbert Best interest group to leave the inn ! She was entirely safe when I left her with Hermione. ``

'' Exactly ! You left ! Where were you to avail ? '' He shot back.

'' Talking to Padma, trying to cipher out how I was going to bring her to meet up with her now vampire twin ! '' Ron roared out. `` Luna is no longer my responsibility to take care after think back ? She's yours ! And if it weren't for you, Lucius probably wouldn't have even had any interestingness in her anyway ! ``

'' Excuse me ? '' Harry asked darkly.

'' The pettifogger article… Lucius was very specific that the clause was the reason he was ready to hurl her off a drop-off. You're the one who came up with the idea and contacted her father about it without her knowledge. You're the one who made sure Xeno had all the information and you're the one who talked her into going along with it. If I recall, Luna wasn't too happy about the clause, thought it was a bad idea… Well you're the one who chose not to hear to her ! So putting it all together, it was your decision that nearly got her killed yesterday ! ``

Harry reacted without cerebration, simply wanting to slash out and ache the way he was now hurting. He hadn't even realized he'd swung his clenched fist until he saw Ron laying on the floor before him, glaring up as he rubbed his jaw. `` What's the matter Harry ? Does the Truth hurt ? '' He taunted.

'' hold back it ! Everyone just lay off ! '' Hermione shouted, her interpreter growing hoarse as she continued to strain it.

'' You're the 1 who barged in here to nettle me. '' Ron said, rising to his substructure and pushing past her to look at his face in the small mirror hanging over his dresser.

Harry shook his head and simply walked out, going back to his own room and closing the door tightly behind him, wanting to shut out out the world. To her credit, Luna gave him nearly an entire hour to himself before coming to demand he open up and present her. He sighed and went to let her in, once again finding it impossible to deny her even as his ignominy and fury with himself made him only want to hide from her. `` You were right, going to talk to him was a bad idea… you were right every time you said something was a bad idea… '' He told her, going to sit at his desk.

'' Harry- ''

'' I've learned my lesson though… I'll listen when you say that from now on. '' He interrupted as he hung his fountainhead and stared at his hands.

She walked over and moved his weapon, settling herself in his lap as she comfortingly ran her fingers through his hair. `` The truth needed to come out about Lucius. '' She said gently. `` I may not stimulate liked the way you chose, but after seeing my father survive an attack only to still be so assured that he'd done the right-hand thing… I long ago came to term with the fact that it was dangerous. Everything we do now is dangerous, there's no getting around that. You can't blame yourself for what Lucius chooses to do. And without coming aspect to face with him yesterday, we wouldn't have his confession about Kane. ``

'' It was too come together for comfort… I thought I was literally having a heart fire when I saw you and Draco go over the side… '' He leaned to take a breather his forehead on her articulatio humeri, unable to meet her eyes.

'' Hey, I may have been scared, but I never for a min thinking I was going to die. I knew you were coming to help us. '' She reassured him, still delicately stroking his hair.

'' How could you sleep together I would get there in meter ? ``

'' Harry… '' She laughed and made him look at her. `` Don't you think I of all people would know ? Don't you think I'd get some warning, some visual sensation telling me the end was near ? zip at all came to me while Dragon was holding onto me, that's how I knew you'd get there in time. '' She kissed his cheek and he quickly turned to capture her lips. With one graceful bm, she turned herself and was now straddling him, throwing her arms around his berm as she deepened the kiss. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer against him, needing to feel that the wholeness that only she could wreak as her light filled every empty post inside of him.

For a moment there he'd felt the world collapse down around him as he'd taken in the the true of Ron's coarse words, that his own legal action month ago had put Lucius standing over Luna with the determination to let her last or die… The fact that the man would ingest probably gone ahead and crushed her fingers anyway simply because she'd seen him there meant nothing because Lucius had been very well-defined in his reasons for attempting to help her fall to her Death. But she had come and just made it better with variety words of her own… She had been able-bodied to train away the power his guilty conscience had over him by simply asserting her opinion in him and in herself.

Ron had no melodic theme what he was talking about, Luna had never allowed anything to maintain her from fighting on and she was far from playing the victim. In fact in that moment, she was his hero, bringing him back from the agonizing shackles of self-doubt. He felt her smile against his backtalk as she picked up his thoughts and knew that she liked how he saw her in his mind. I love you. He thought to her, a simple program line that held more truth and depth of emotion than anything he'd ever before expressed in his entire life.

No more than I love you. She assured him, breaking the kiss to look him in the eyes. And then there were no more Holy Scripture left to say, nothing left that could evince what either of them was feeling. And so he reached up to take her sassing again, eager to let their minds and organic structure say what their Holy Scripture and mentation were unable to articulate.

( BREAK )

Ginny walked into her room, leaving the door open as she was sure Draco had picked up on her non-to-subtle hint. Sure enough he came in a few minutes after her, quietly closing the door behind him and leaning against it, waiting to see what was to make out. `` Really ? You stay out all night knowing that Parvati was still out there ? That Lucius could get come back ? I stayed up waiting for you, worrying myself crazy thinking of everything that could give happened only to bump you sauntering in after Harry calls us all together ! You're bad for my nerves. '' She scolded.

'' I'm sorry you were worried. '' He said, shuffling his feet. `` I didn't mean to be gone all nighttime but once I was out there, it just felt so good… running made me not call back, made me sense costless I guess. ``

'' And I made you finger trapped ? '' She asked, hurt by the implication.

'' Not in the way you're thought process. '' He insisted. `` The full moonlight is tomorrow Nox and so I already feel like I'm crawling out of my skin… like my entire body is a John Milton Cage Jr. that's just barely keeping me inside. No crystal or potion can subscribe away that belief. On top of that, it was too much to be presented with the idea that my own father could receive taken you away from me so easily… that I had something to lose that would completely ruin me. I'm not used to caring Ginny, but you make it easier… And now it feels like I care too much, you know ? Like my entire existence rests on your welfare… ''

'' You think I don't know what that's like ? I'm the one who had your blood all over my bridge player yesterday. '' She reminded him. `` You think I wasn't ready to collapse at the thought that you'd been fatally injured ? I never expected to give care this much about someone, let alone you. But now that we're here together, I can't imagine it any other way and I wouldn't want to. ``

He nodded and crossed his branch across his thorax as a sort of shield. `` As long as you know that I love you and that I don't blame you for any of this… I just can't be here, stuck in this castle correct now… ''

'' Meaning what ? ``

'' After lupin was done with his coming together with Jacey and Dumbledore, I went to see him to request that we leave a day early like normal. '' He seemed to stabilize himself as he waited for her reaction.

'' I thought the point of the talisman was that you didn't have to forget at all. '' She said slowly.

'' That's what lupine said… But I don't think I'll vesture that tomorrow… I think I would variety of like to let the Wolf run free for a bit, under the restraint of the Wolfsbane of path. ``

'' Be honest… Should I be worried about you ? '' She asked quietly.

Draco seemed to agitate himself off a bit, uncrossing his arms and putting on a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. `` Yesterday was a lot to occupy in… I just postulate some time. ``

'' I knew… yesterday even while it was all occurrence, I knew you were going to come up out of this different. '' She walked over and took his hand, looking up at him and feeling very much like she was pleading with him. `` I understand why… I just don't want you to be different with me. For secure or unsound I like who you are with me. Show the rest of the world whatever you want Draco, but please just stay fair with me. ``

'' I'm trying. '' He whispered sadly, pulling her against him as he hugged her close. `` I just need this metre away… from you and myself. That's why I don't want to wear the amulet tomorrow… I don't want to stay myself right now. ``

'' And when you come back ? '' She asked, looking up at him hopefully.

'' It's not like I can walk away from you forever, you know. '' He offered a genuine smile this time. `` It seems I can't really picture any sorting of sprightliness without you in it. ``

'' Good. Because I'm scared you're going to try and do something misguidedly noble like leaving to ensure Lucius won't fair game me again. '' Ginny said seriously. `` Regardless what happened yesterday with him, I feel safer when you're around me. ``

'' What you feel and what is the actual reality are two dissimilar affair. '' He reached out to sweep her haircloth back before kissing her forehead. `` It's always going to be more dangerous for you to be around me… but I've long ago realized you're pretty much a prey for peril with the decisions you make and the citizenry you associate with. Unless you're ready to agree to inhabit your life in a babble, I'm in it for the tenacious haul to ensure that not only do you not get yourself killed, that no one ever again tries to hurt you to get at me… My departure for good wouldn't prevent Lucius from using you again to flush me out, and it would work just as well as it did yesterday because nothing as simple as length can commute the way I feel about you. But I need these two days now Ginny. For my own sanity. ``

She looked at him carefully, before letting out a deep breath. `` Okay. '' She agreed now that she felt she believed he would come back. But part of her was still reluctant, still cowardly that while out there he would change his mind and decide she was estimable off without him after all. `` Just retrieve, I'd fall apart if you didn't come back. ``

'' Tues break of the day I'll be here. '' He promised. She wanted to believe him completely. But that small nagging representative that always seemed to shout out that she wasn't meant to be happy kept her from fully allowing herself to trust that the lure of the globe beyond Hogwarts was weaker than the desire to repay to someplace he'd admitted he felt entirely trapped in.

( BREAK )

Ron waited until recent Sunday dark, wanting to be sure as shooting that everyone else had gone to bed in preparation for their year the next day. As soon as his clock read midnight he got out of bed, still fully dressed, and made his way across the common room to the Slytherin annex. He knew Tristram's doorway was just past genus Draco's and as he raised his helping hand to knock, he hoped Jacey answered looking like the lamia as it would make up it easier to say the things he'd decided he needed to say to her. To the disappointment of his mind but not his eyes, she opened the doorway looking very much like herself. It was amazing that she could bet so stupefy in round-eyed pajamas, but the slick shirt and pant seemed to hug her consistence just right, making her appear soft and curvy. Her hair was hanging in wild curls around her shoulders, making it tantalizingly earn that she'd just rolled out of bed. `` Was there something you wanted ? '' She asked softly, clearly aware of the tension and choler he felt towards her.

He shook himself a bit, remembering that he'd made a decision and that he was determined to stick with it. `` I need to let the cat out of the bag to you for a moment. ``

She gestured him in and closed the threshold, turning to face him with nervous concern. `` Have you heard anything about Parvati yet ? '' She looked down, and he began to wonder if she already knew why he'd cum to see her.

'' Lupin told me before he and genus Draco left that his contact had gotten a clutches of him to cover that she had gotten Annapurna to the colony and they were well. '' He crossed his implements of war and stared her down, almost daring her to meet his oculus. `` As well as can be expected anyway, given the fact that she had to be taken away from her supporter and class to learn how to be a better vampire. ``

'' It is not all my fault ! '' She protested, once more raising her gaze. `` I am sorry for the region I played in it by not saying what I suspected, but I am not the one who targeted her, I am not the one who turned her and I am not the one who is letting my guilt destroy my life ! ``

'' Of row I feel guilty ! '' Ron shouted. `` I was all wrapped up in thoughts of you while she was off being fed on or whatever it takes to plow soul ! She relied on me and I let her down, well I won't do it anymore. ``

'' Meaning what ? Have you come to narrate me off the like way you did all your former friend ? ``

'' I don't have to. You aren't my friend, I barely know you. '' He saw that she was hurt badly by this and it hurt him to see it. He may not hump her well, but this was certainly proving to be harder than it had been to say the things he knew would puddle his Quaker mad at him. He wondered how Harry had been able to go on this act up for so long last year when he was already make to throw in the towel at the sight of Jacey's upset with him. But if he wanted to be left alone, he had to see to it no one wanted to put out him. `` For a here and now I thought I wanted to do it you, but you're as big a liar as Harry, Luna and Hermione. Besides, if I can barely put up to be around myself, how can I possibly be near you when the slew of you makes me think of everything that Parvati is going through because you didn't warn anyone ? ``

'' okay, you have made your power point. '' She said crossly. `` I think you should go before you say something I really can not forgive. Remember Ron, eventually you will find a way to propel past what you are feeling… you do not want to completely burn every bridge circuit you have. ``

'' Maybe I do. '' He countered. `` It would seduce it that much easier to bulge over from scratch. ``

'' Why would you want to do that ? '' She pushed. `` Your friends, your family… they have always been there for you. Maybe not always in room that you approve of, but you can only really fault them for doing what they thought was best for you. I know the things you said to them today, the way you made them feel about themselves. I know that it is easier for you to give them think badly of themselves so that they will leave they are mad at you for putting those sentiment in their heads in the for the first time place. But what you are doing is cruel. Harry already feels so a good deal duty for everyone's welfare, making him think almost losing Luna was his faulting was a frightful thing to do. ``

'' I wasn't wrong. '' He shot back, trying to leaven that he was unmoved by her tidings. `` He's the genius behind Xeno releasing that story, everything that happens as a resultant of it is in some way his error. He provided the catalyst. ``

'' And even now after you have made that readable and nearly crushed him with that knowledge, he would lay down his life to save yours. '' She said angrily. `` You are letting what you feel make you act selfishly. However true the things you say may be, how is bringing it to anyone's attention a positive thing to do ? Everyone needs a bit of denial to go on after so very much mindless and eonian calamity, even you. Taking theirs away from them, exposing all the things they had repressed in rescript to keep moving forward… you are hurting them more than they realize. And more than you realize. You have no estimate what is going on between Hermione and Fred right now and the therefore the things you said to her were devastating for her to find out. After finding her in that fix so completely lost, you should have realized that she is in a very fragile topographic point at the moment. ``

'' You're right, I have no estimate what's going on between Hermione and Fred. You know why ? Because no one tells me anything anymore ! '' He shouted. `` That's kind of my whole point here ! '' He stalked over to the door, more angry with her now than when he'd come in. He wanted the luxury of focusing on his own emotional country, he didn't want to have to turn aware of anyone else's. Of course he knew they were all hurting after recent events… but he wanted his infliction to acquire nitty-gritty point for once. He didn't want to have to realize that to each of them, their own pain in the ass was the most important… he didn't want to deliver to admit that there were those among his protagonist who may get deserved to feel worse than he did. So what if that made him selfish… he was 17 and this was the prison term to be selfish, to be young and responsibility-free, to not throw to care about anyone but himself before growing up and having to get a job and commence a fellowship. He was tired and wanted the life of a normal adolescent and the best way to achieve that was to distance himself from those that by design or desire were now forced to be more than mature.

'' Please do not just walk out. '' Jacey said softly as he breezed past her.

'' There's naught more to say and nothing more than I want to hear. '' He answered meanly, opening the door and walking out.

It wasn't until he reached his own room that he finally allowed himself to breathe. Facing Jacey had been harder than the others, perhaps because he'd been disappointed in her the most. Harry and the others he was used to getting the run around from, but he'd expected more from her. Ron had thought she was feeling the same way for him that he felt for her, but then she had so easily lied to him, siding with his admirer against him immediately. And meanwhile, he'd lost a female child who really had tried to care about him to a dreadful fate… A fate that had been allowed to go on by the missy he'd allowed himself to be distracted by. Until he could forgive himself, he'd never be able-bodied to forgive Jacey… and at this point, he wasn't entirely sure he wanted to.

( BREAK )

Hermione lay in bed and stared at the ceiling. She was too hot to sleep, though once she kicked off her covers she found she was suddenly too cold. She'd tried taking the herbaceous plant given to her by the healer but they had only relieved her sore throat and stuffed nose. The cephalalgia remained, and she began to suspect that it had cipher to do with the cold-blooded she'd caught. Ron's words were echoing in her head, making her doubt so many things… but she wouldn't let herself be swept up in it. She'd have batch of meter to finger bad once she was surely Fred was safe.

As a distraction, she focused her mind on finding a root. At first they'd all agreed that finding out where Fred was being kept was the most important affair, but she was starting to remember otherwise. What in force would finding him do if they didn't image out a way to disentangle him from the snare that had forced him to allow in the initiative place ? Nailing down the spy was the key… Erebos and Herbert Alexander Simon, it was significant that they figure out how these two were actually connected to Elanya, Elise and Sarah. Once they were discovered, their menace would no longer hold weight and Fred could be freed of the fear of Ron and Ginny being killed if he didn't cooperate. The next stair was something Lee and Willem could do for her in London… they had to be absolutely indisputable there was no proof to tie Fred to Edmund's death, zilch that Elanya could use to leaven he'd helped her in any way. The utmost footprint was finding a way to end the threat Sarah had hung over Hermione's own promontory. Once that was done, there was nothing to wedge Fred to continue to cooperate and then they could find him and bring him home.

There was only one way she had been able to intend of overcoming Sarah's accomplishment with Advanced Astral Projection and that was to become a comparable opposite. She'd already read the Holy Scripture she'd gotten from the program library once… now it was metre to read through them again to be certainly she hadn't missed anything and then it would be time to practice. She turned on the light and picked up one of the books, figuring it was a unspoilt use of her insomnia than staring at the cap and worrying endlessly. She was determined that by the end of this calendar week she would cognize everything Sarah knew about astral projection… That they will have neutralized the threats presented by Erebos and Simon… And that they will not only have found where Elanya took Fred, but also have a solid plan for how to bring him back.

　

NOTE : Next chapter, the Leigh Hunt for Fred and some more things are brought to light. Stay tuned to find out what happens next !

Reference to Moody and the polyjuice potion from Harry ceramicist and the chalice of flak by J.K. Rowling.
Reference to Dolores Umbridge from Harry Potter and the order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling.
character reference to Quierrell from Harry ceramicist and the Sorcerer's/Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling


Chapter 53 : And the plot Thickens

A/N : Wow did this chapter bring a tour I wasn't expecting as I was writing, thus the title of the chapter… I guess we'll all see where this takes us now. Read, Review, Enjoy !





'' You're sure about this ? '' Lupin asked as they watched the moon procession from beneath the trees.

'' I am. '' Dragon answered steadily, clutching his amulet tightly as he waited for himself to be set to transfer it. They had hiked all day in secretiveness yesterday, both content to let the former be lost in their own thought process as they left any trace of civilization far behind them. He'd been grateful that Lupin had allowed the muteness to persist in into the nighttime and adjacent day… he felt awkward around the man and didn't bonk how to talk to him anymore. Lucius had been quick to kill lupine simply for agreeing to legally see after genus Draco and spoilt, he'd threatened to go after Andromeda, Ted and Tonks as well before he'd escaped. His begetter's inexplicable anger and jealousy was obviously something Potter hadn't anticipated when he'd suggested this whole keeping thing for them… none of them had. `` You don't have to come with, you know. You can keep your amulet on and stay human… I took the potion, I'll be ok. ``

'' I know. But I want to go with. '' He insisted. `` I've had to do this by myself for many long time, and even when you think you don't want anyone else there, I've found it's always better not to go through it alone. I had Saint James and Sirius… and because they kept me going, now you have me to help you. ``

Draco shook his psyche. `` School's over in a few hebdomad, I'll be moving back in with Potter I guessing, since that's where everyone seems to go. I have the amulet and a sense of some variety of control… you don't have to be there for me anymore. You can take back your guardianship and erase all touch that tie yours and Tonks name to mine. ``

'' I could, but why would I ? '' Lupin smiled. `` You can't always expect that people will just give up on you when things get too unvoiced Dragon. Not everyone is like that. You may believe that it's difficult to open yourself up to caring about others… but that's the easy part. It can be far more difficult to unfold yourself up to letting others care about you. ``

'' I just don't want it to be my faulting if Lucius decides to go after you guys ! '' He said angrily, taking a few gradation away.

'' And it wouldn't be. '' He said gently. `` What your father chooses to do is up to him, but the bad blood between him and Andromeda goes back to before you were born. Her recent forgivingness to you is only the latest excuse for him to assay vengeance against her. Tonks has been in his sights for years as she was a part of several dissimilar investigations seeking to bring him down. And after what happened in the Ministry of deception, after losing Sirius, she had already sworn to help oneself get Lucius and the others if it was the last matter she did. I know you don't make love your cousin very well, but it takes a lot for her to back down from anything. '' He smiled as he thought of his wife. `` As for me, well, you've kind of grown on me. I'm certainly not scared of Lucius, and I wouldn't let him be the thing that has you pushing me away when it's clear you'd rather have me around. ``

'' I guess you've grown on me too. '' Draco mumbled. `` Which is why the go matter I want to be is a essence. ``

'' And you aren't. '' lupin insisted. `` My family was always frigidity and distant, and they became even more so after I became afflicted with this whammy. My whole biography I had to micturate my own family, which is what I managed to do with James, Lily and Sirius. After I lost them, I thought I was finished caring about people… And then I got the fortune to not only get together and be near Harry, but to help oneself clean-cut Sothis's epithet as well. Since then I've opened myself up and began making my own category again, up to and including falling in love with and marrying Tonks. I care about all of you kids… and I certainly love Harry as if he were my own son. But you Draco, you have become someone of import to me as well, soul I can share the most horrible part of my sprightliness with, someone who makes this curse word light to bear because now I have the responsibility of guiding you through living your living with it. I'm not revoking my guardianship, and it's not just because I think you still take me and Tonks and the semblance of syndicate we can bid you, it's also because I need you to be in my life. ``

He didn't know what to say or even how he felt. He was still getting used to what it was like to love Ginny, how was he also supposed to deal the spirit that came with having rule home members who not only cared about him, but actually wanted him around ? Lupin was related to him through wedlock and a slip of report, but in that moment it felt as if he were everything genus Draco had always wanted but never had… father, pal, uncle, cousin-german and better booster all wrapped up in one package and waiting for him to accept it. `` Okay. '' He said, not trusting himself to say anything else without betraying how worked up he felt.

lupin laughed and patted his shoulder. `` Come on, let's let ourselves go for the dark and just enjoy the run. We'll head back towards Hogwarts so we won't have as far to trip in the sunup. ``

Draco nodded in silent agreement. Together they removed their talisman, storing them safely in their bags, of which they'd loosened the strap to hold their soon to be larger forms. Stepping out into the moonshine, he wasn't quite sure what to expect… the transmutation wasn't as painful as he remembered, though perhaps it was because this time he fully embraced it, wanting the savage to be free. Still retaining their own minds, they were now in strange torso and had to be careful as they remembered to slash the dish to their backs. They shared a aspect before lupine threw his head to the moonlight and let out a idle howl. And then they were off, allowing the masher to run and play while they attempted to plow off their man thoughts.

( BREAK )

As had become his custom, Fred woke early, just before the sun rose. Of path he had no idea what metre that was, just as he had no mind how long he'd actually been on this island… he'd forced himself to stop counting years after the fifth one, finding it far too demoralise. Instead he had learned to pore on finding what niggling use he could while he was imprisoned. Those odd flowers growing here had become one of those thing he actually liked and so he'd begun getting up before the sun, gladly leaving the splendor of the interior of their massive collapsible shelter that seemed so ordinary on the out-of-door. As he now normally did, he walked up the beach to where a small patch of the strange flush grew wild.

Looking off into the horizon as he waited for the sun to peek over it, he let his brain wander… Wondering what his friends were up to, what Hermione must be thinking about his disappearance, whether his parents knew he was in worry, and most prominently ... how was he going to get himself out of this ? Hearing a forte squawking speech sound that still terrified him no thing how many times he heard it, he glanced up into the quickly brightening sky and saw the dark outline of those eldritch creatures that enjoyed flying through the first light. He didn't know what they were and they never came close enough for him to really see them, which was finely by him as he wasn't about to go looking for them. They seemed to get to the tall mint that made up about of this island and Fred had been sure to prevent far away from there, choosing instead to remain near the beach where the vast sea reminded him of freedom.

At last the sun came up, breaking entirely free of the sensible horizon to begin it's ascension through the sky. He eagerly turned back to the flowers, waiting for that commencement radio beam of light to affect them. At last it happened and his oculus danced as bud after bud bloomed in an plosion of color- vibrant pinks and purple, neon Amytal and green, deeply saturated orange and yellowness. It was breathtaking to behold, like a work of art coming to life sentence right in front of him.

'' well, I figured I'd find you here again. '' Elanya said as she came up behind him. He ignored her as he'd been doing since that first night… he hadn't spoken a single Word to her since setting up the tent. In fact, he felt like he was beginning to leave how to let the cat out of the bag at all as he'd never in his aliveness been able-bodied to hold silence for more than a few bit let alone however long he'd been stuck here… Though in a signified, it did cook him happy to get it on that his stubbornness and self-will were so strong. He knew it was beginning to bother her that she was basically leave behind talking to herself and as that was the only sort of triumph he could achieve, he was heedful to keep up his silence. `` Don't you get tired of watching them day after day ? '' She goaded.

He wanted to narrate her that he'd be able-bodied to find more hasten slipway to pass his metre had she not forced him onto this island where the only form of entertainment was the unusual beauty of nature… But he didn't. He simply got up and brushed the sand from his shorts before stripping off his shoes and T-shirt and heading down to the pee for a swimming. He could feel her following him and smiled to himself, well-chosen that he was proving to be an pain to her. `` You have to spill the beans to me sometime ! '' She called as he walked right into the water, letting the inexplicable affectionateness of it sooth away the tenseness he carried at all times now. `` Hey ! '' She shouted loudly.

He turned to find her ankle-deep in the piddle. She'd taken off her clothes and was standing there in a revealing bathing suit that he hadn't even seen her purchase with his money. The textile was gold, nearly blending in with the deep tan she'd acquired while they'd been there and illuminating the honey-gold color of her eyes. The sun shone through her loose auburn hair, casting a glossy air around her. He bit the inside of his brass, needing the pain to cue him that as goodness as she may see she wasn't safe to let one's guard down around. `` Mind if I join you for a swimming ? '' She asked slyly as she posed effortlessly in front line of him like a gilt statue.

It was clear she wanted some reception and it didn't matter whether it was a denial or acceptance of her offering. She was clearly starting to act out in an attack to manipulate him into doing what she wanted, which was speak to her. As a skilled prevaricator and manipulator himself, he knew the things to attend for and so he willfully kept his silence. Pretending he hadn't even seen her, he turned and dive into the flabby wave before moving his blazonry and stage, gliding easily through the piddle without looking back. Everyday he managed to get further from the shoreline… not that he had any deception about being able to drown his way across the ocean. But as Elanya never went more than waist-deep into the water system, he'd occur to realize she was probably not a very strong or convinced swimmer. This meant that the only fourth dimension he could be assured of being away from her was way out where she dared not go.

Feeling his side begin to halter and his limbs slacken down, he stopped and treaded water, turning to see she had in fact remained on the beach. Even at this far distance, he could tell apart she was angry as she strode back towards the collapsible shelter. Breathing a sigh of relief Fred flipped over onto his binding and floated, careful to listen that he didn't let the current pull him further than he thought he could swim back. Allowing his heading to dip so that his ears were below water where everything was muffled and staring at the endless wild blue yonder sky, he felt relaxed… peaceful… and very lonely. As a great deal as he would care to look on the bright English and enjoy the scenery of where he was, the estimation that so many mass were probably worried about him kept him from doing so. He wished he were stuck on the island with Hermione, that this was some post-graduation holiday and she could be out here to enjoy this quiesce moment with him.

He was worry that he didn't know what was going on at Hogwarts, but there was nothing he could do about it. Still, it was gentle to call up of the strange peril the others were going through than to focus on his own captivity… But he knew he had to take up doing something to convert his situation. As much as he wanted to restrain up this silent intervention that was making Elanya so mad, he knew he needed solvent from her. His hands were completely tied while he was here, cut off from everyone and all information. But if he could find out when they were leaving and when she planned on going back to British capital to attempt to use him against his friends and family, then he'd be better positioned to get along up with a design. Getting himself off this island was useless if he didn't soma a way out of everything else as well.

Feeling hungry, Fred turned and swam back to shore. Letting the sun dry him as he walked back to the collapsible shelter, he decided to throw himself one more day to delight making Elanya mad… Tomorrow he would see how he felt about breaking his secrecy. After all, as much as he wanted to understanding with himself, it was hard to throw up the only small bit of power he had at the moment.

( suspension )

'' Good morning everyone ! '' Charlie greeted his course of instruction. Since lupin and Draco had decided to pull up stakes, an impromptu trade up of social class schedule was arranged to make up for the missing prof, making for an entirely confusing Monday that Hermione had missed out on by staying in bed sick. Unfortunately, Lupin hadn't made it back in clock time Tuesday morning and that left the seventh twelvemonth advanced political program class to enjoy caution of Magical Creatures as the firstly lesson of the day. Normally Hermione enjoyed Charlie's class, even if she did have to call him professor Weasley. But between her fear over Fred, her still lingering illness and Ron glaring at her and Harry the whole prison term, she just wasn't in the mood for anything that distracted her from practicing astral projection. Perhaps she should have taken Harry's advice and stayed in bed again today, but being so close to the end of her time in school she'd forced herself to get up, not wanting to overleap out on anything that could present itself on a examination. But her head just wasn't in it and as Charlie began handing out minuscule books to them all, she debated asking if she could be excused.

'' Now, my coming to learn here was a very last minute of arc decision and so I didn't have prison term to get my say on your reading inclination for this course. '' Charlie announced as he finished passing the al-Qur'an around and stood before them all. `` Today we start learning about creatures I have a specific peculiarity in- Dragons. '' He smiled, clearly excited to teach on something he knew so well. `` Obviously I can't bring any of them in to show you, though I'm aware that some of you have had rather close encounters with a few different species. '' He grinned at Harry.

'' Charlie, this script has your name on it. '' Ron interrupted, not bothering to raise his hand.

'' That's prof Weasley while we're in class Ron. '' Charlie reminded him with a smirk. `` And yes, I just published it this summertime though I didn't want to say anything until it caught on. A few yr ago, I and a few of my co-worker were lucky enough to stumble upon a mintage of Dragon that had long been thought to have gone extinct. We lived near and studied them and after, I wrote down what we learned. You are now all holding the outcome of that try. ``

He went on and suddenly too funny and interested to consider leaving class, Hermione began flipping through the Word, tidal bore to get a sentiency of Charlie as an author. The text edition was informative but it was the bright photographs of the island where the firedrake had been found and of the creatures themselves that really made the book spectacular. Drawn in by a bright flare-up of color in the corner of one of the photos, she leaned in finisher and was struck as she recognized the flowers from Luna's visual modality. Her hand instantly shot into the air as she desperately waved it to get Charlie's attention.

'' Yes Miss Granger ? '' He grinned at her.

'' I was looking through the book… these flowers in this picture here, are they Colorsplosions ? '' She felt Harry percolate up side by side to her and together they eagerly waited for an answer.

'' Why, yes as a matter of fact. As it turned out, these Dragon weren't the only affair we found on the island that had been thought to be extinct. estimable job recognizing them '' He nodded encouragingly. `` There were respective former plant and creature species on this island- ''

'' What island ? '' Harry interrupted, throwing his hand in the air as an afterthought.

'' One of the gateway islands that protect the route to Castellumshire. '' He answered untrusting of the sudden sake. `` I'm no sailor, I simply rode with a clump of them and they knew how to get there. I personally couldn't even point it out on a map. ``

'' And are the dragons that live there unsafe ? '' Hermione asked, suddenly terrified for Fred.

'' Yes, but only if you disturb them. '' Charlie answered seriously. `` This species is called the Double-Clawed Winghorn, so named for the duo of very sharp claws they use to perch and fascinate prey and the car horn protruding from the tips of their fender. They live in mellow space, generally mountains… Which is where we found these last few. Our coterie was down at the base and as long as we remained down there, the Winghorns didn't bother us. It was only after we climbed up to meditate them more closely that they became venomous and highly protective of what they considered their margin. They attack in twosome and are highly level-headed and extremely adept, though we only saw ten of them in all. However, when left on their own it became clear that they only came out to run in the very early morning. The rest of the clip they were depicted object to stay in their den. ``

Hermione pretty much tuned him out after that, not needing or wanting to pick up more. Surely she had to be mistaken, for sure Colorspolosions had to grow elsewhere in the world… She knew all it would read to discover out the truth was to run the idea by Luna and the young woman's intuition would tell them if this was the island where Fred was being held… but she was already fairly for certain that it was. Of row it had to be, why wouldn't Elanya insist they go one of the few space anyone else dared to ? What were the betting odds another team of dragon hunting watch would be stopping by now that they knew what was there ?

As soon as Charlie ended his class, Hermione raced back to her elbow room, throwing aside the book of account on astral jut to incur the one about mystical islands that she'd also stolen/borrowed. She flipped through the Sir Frederick Handley Page until she found an entry on the gateway islands… there were two some 30 kilometers apart that were estimated to be about a hundred kilometers from Castellumshire. Despite this all-inclusive area, the ledger explained that for some rationality, these islands proved to be unchartable and only a very season sailor knew how to line up them.

tactual sensation excited, nervous and terrify, she rushed into the common way where Harry and Luna were sitting on the couch, apparently waiting for her. `` Is this it ? Is this where Fred is ? '' She thrust the Bible at Luna, begging her to say she was wrong… that Fred wasn't on an untraceable island that was occupied by dragons.

'' You've lost Fred ? '' Draco asked as he emerged from the Slytherin wing.

They all froze, unsure what to say or how to explicate. `` When did you get back ? '' Harry asked calmly as both a distraction and a way to buy time.

'' A few hour ago. I was just on my way to tell Ginny before we all have to go to category. '' He answered, looking around at the three of them suspiciously. `` What's going on with Fred ? ``

'' He's on a business trip. '' Hermione said quickly, not knowing what else to say and figuring it was best to mystify with the lie already told. They may not hold discussed it, but she, Harry and Luna had clearly come to a dumb correspondence not to tell Dragon anything about Fred so that he wouldn't be put in the location of keeping it from Ginny.

'' Yeah, Ginny mentioned something about that. Apparently Mrs. Weasley sent a letter complaining all about it and the precipitous way he left. '' Draco said slowly. He was anything but dimwitted and it was clear he'd picked up on something being incorrectly. `` What does that receive to do with you all not knowing where he is ? ``

'' Hermione had been talking to him through those compacts… you know, keeping in touch. '' Luna blurted out.

'' Right, but she came to us this sunup saying she accidentally broke the compact. '' Harry agreed, picking up effortlessly on Luna's thought. `` She was freaking out because she had no idea where he was actually staying and therefore no way to contact him. ``

'' I had a imaginativeness that showed him on an island, though I wasn't sure which one so she went to look up the things I described to see if she could figure it out. '' Luna added, rounding out their lie.

Draco ignored them and looked at Hermione before smirking and shaking his header. He'd gotten to know them all well since joining with them, and had spent age before that spying on them to learn all their secrets. He knew of the three, Harry was the gifted liar, though Luna was capable when pressed… he also knew Hermione not only didn't like to lie, she wasn't always the most convincing at it. Letting Harry and Luna speak for her had obviously given him a clue that matter weren't exactly as they were telling him. `` I see. '' He said at last. `` This is one of those, I'm-better-off-not-knowing, character of things… is that because Ginny is expert off not knowing ? ``

'' Let's just say everything's fine and marijuana cigarette with that. '' Harry said.

'' O.K., I don't need to have sex the particular. '' Draco agreed. `` But if you need facilitate, I've been looking for a reason to exercise scrying. ``

'' Why ? '' Hermione asked.

He shrugged. `` You all said we need to center on getting ready to find the coven… Figured I'd like to have something useful to bring to the table. Scrying is a accomplishment that runs in my household so I thought I could use it to aid you locate all those multitude. ``

'' Good to know you plan to come along. '' Harry smiled in encouragement.

'' I don't really make anything planned once we're released from here. '' He admitted. `` I just think it's best I prepare for anything. Let me cognise if you need my helper. I won't honorable mention to Ginny that Fred is currently… off the grid ? ``

'' I guess that's the beneficial way to put it. '' Hermione nodded. `` Thanks. '' He waved her off and continued on his way to tell Ginny that he had returned.

'' Yes, I think that's the place. '' Luna said, answering Hermione's earlier enquiry once she was surely they were alone.

'' Good, so if we know what island he's on and Dragon thinks he can incur where the island is, then there's no motivation for you and Jacey to go to Erebos's course of study today so she can try to get into his principal. '' Harry said happily.

'' That was your idea in the foremost stead ! '' Hermione reminded him.

'' I've had fourth dimension to meditate on it. '' He answered defensively.

'' Either way, we still have to see whether he's really the spy. We can't go saving Fred until we're sure we've shut down everything they're holding over his question. '' She argued.

'' I agree. '' Jacey said, emerging from the Slytherin annex as Tristan, properly dressed in schooltime robe and carrying a backpack. `` Are you ready to go Miss Granger ? ``

Hermione looked at Harry and saw that he was extremely unhappy. She felt free in that moment… she didn't have to manage what Harry thought anymore. She was will to do whatever she had to in order to help Fred, just as she'd done in the past for Harry, no subject how serious or stupid. They had to know if Erebos was the spy so that they could stop him from carrying out Elanya's threats… if that meant placing herself in battlefront of the prof while Jacey tried to get into his mind, then so be it. `` I'm ready. '' She answered confidently.

( BREAK )

Ginny answered the knock on her door right away and threw her arms around genus Draco, more than relieved that he'd returned as he'd promised. `` I wasn't even gone a full moon two mean solar day. '' He teased, leaning down to osculate her.

'' It felt like much longer. '' She sighed, taking his hand and leading him into her elbow room, closing the doorway for privacy. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' As much as I can be I guess. '' He answered honestly, taking a tail end on the bed. `` I talked a few things over with Lupin and it made me finger better… sort of. I'm just tired of everything always being so difficult. ``

'' You and everyone else. '' She smiled, climbing behind him and rubbing his shoulder joint. She could feel how often focus he was carrying and did her best to relieve the extremum tension in his muscles. `` But I guess if affair weren't difficult, we wouldn't appreciate the times when everything is easily. ``

He relaxed into her hands, letting his head hang down as she massaged his neck. `` When has anything ever been slow ? We've all had to sputter to get where we are and now we're struggling to stay there while the intact world seems to diagram against us. ``

'' Being with you isn't such a struggle. '' She wrapped her arms around him and kissed the back of his neck. `` In fact, loving you might be the easiest thing I've ever done even after all we've gone through together. I don't care how hard I have to struggle for us Draco, I think it's worth it. ``

He took her arms and turned to front her, studying her very closely. `` None of this… nothing I'm inquiring or doubting has anything to do with you or us. '' He said very seriously before at last break into a grinning. `` You don't have to convince me that you love me, it's probably the simply thing I'm sure of anymore. ``

She nodded. `` I just thought you needed to hear it again. I can't imagine what you must be feeling after everything that happened with Lucius on Saturday… I just don't want you to go back to thinking that everyone is like him, that everyone will hurt or disappoint you in the longsighted run. ``

He let out a little joke. `` Lupin said something similar. ``

'' Well, we can't both be ill-timed, powerful ? '' She grinned.

'' It's just a strange thing to get used to, having citizenry campaign to stay in my life… especially when it's proven so dangerous. '' He shook his head and turned away from her again. `` I tried to grant lupine an out. I told him to rub out all traces that linked his and Tonks's names to mine… but he wanted to stay on as my guardian. ``

'' Of trend he did ! You don't think you're helping him cover with this wholly lycanthrope thing the same way he's helping you ? '' She asked, once more wrapper her munition around him and resting her chin on his shoulder. `` Face it Draco… once people get to get it on you, you're a pretty likable guy. And I hope you weren't planning to try and take in me the same crack as lupin because you're as stuck with me as you are with him. ``

'' Don't I know it. '' He teased, turning to snog her cheek.

'' You're lucky to cause us both. '' She went on, smiling widely.

'' Yeah, I know that too. '' He laughed.

'' Well here's the part you don't seem to bed yet… we're lucky to accept you as well. '' She reached up and turned his face so that she could lightly buss his sassing. `` Maybe that's the part you shouldn't forget. '' She whispered before fully capturing his mouth once more, ready to welcome him back and usher him just how much she'd missed him.

( BREAK )

'' Mr. Macnair ! I was told not to look you in class today. '' prof Erebos said as soon as Jacey entered his schoolroom. Hermione had been sure to go far a few moment before her as usual so that nothing would seem suspicious.

'' I'm of the mind that my posture here is still to be determined. '' She replied as Tristram, coolly taking a stern in the back row of the nearly empty schoolroom. Erebos simply shook his head and began his lesson. Clearly the man was going to depart the act of disciplining the vampire to those with Thomas More power than he had. Jacey was happy to receive that the professor was more than than a bit scar of Tristan.

Remember, keep him interfering. Ask questions so he is focused on you and therefore less able to center on shielding his idea. She reminded Hermione.

I think I can handle it. She replied in amusement.

They waited until the example was half over, hoping that Erebos would be lulled into a treacherously sense of security department. You ready ? Jacey thought out to Harry and Luna. She knew that by now they had stationed themselves next door in prof Flitwick's currently empty classroom.

Let's just try to be really deliberate, okay ? Harry asked desperately.

gift Hermione the signal, Jacey watched in fascinated entertainment as the other girlfriend raised her hand and assaulted Erebos with rapid-fire questions. No Oklahoman had the man answered her once than she was asking for more data, Sir Thomas More clarification or Thomas More detail. Watching him become flustered, Jacey waited until she was sure he was completely distracted by his eager pupil. Feeling Harry and Luna's presence mingle in with hers, she propelled all three of them forward into the professor's head. Sure enough, they found a fortress around his mind, as high and mighty as any of theirs. Picturing the three of them tiptoeing through the man's subconscious, she helped search for some way in.

There ! Luna whispered excitedly. Focusing on her, Jacey was capable to see what she saw and cautiously zoomed toward the crack in the foundation. They slipped their way in, careful not to forget a ghost of themselves. Flipping through the man's judgment as quickly as possible, they at live found what they were looking for.

*****

Erebos put the key in the doorway and entered the hotel room. Elise was already waiting for him, sitting in one of the chairs as she regarded him warily. `` It's been a long clip Dolos. '' She said, offering a sly and seductive smile.

'' And I had thought it would be much longer. I thought we had agreed days ago to just be glad that we got away with having our unretentive time together. '' He replied, angrily dropping his suitcase to the earth. He didn't like being summoned like this, but the daughter had a lot of shite on him and she was entirely capable of ruining his life.

'' You thought a lot of thing about me, haven't you ? '' She teased.

He cleared his throat and remained stiff in his resolution. `` I'm married now. ``

She laughed. `` Actually you're in the process of getting divorced. Didn't you think I would correspond up on you before making contact ? I also know matter between you and the ex-wife are entirely unsettled… it seems she's battling you for full custody of the fiddling rugrats you two bred. '' She laughed again, having seen the headache that instantly spread across his face. `` Relax Dolos, I didn't call you here to rekindle old fire or to threaten your estrange family. ``

'' Then why did you call, and why have us meet here, in Australia of all berth ? '' He asked nervously.

'' To make a proposal. '' She rose and walked over to the window, letting the sun effulgence through her sundress and denude a apparition of the figure underneath. `` It seems you and I are in the position to serve each former yet again. '' She added, looking at him over her berm. Everything about her was as appealing as it had been all those years ago, from her rather attractive coming into court to the lowly star tattoo that drew him into her eyes to the hint of danger she always promised to provide.

'' I'm listening. '' He said, entertaining the idea that perhaps rekindling old flames wouldn't be the worst thing in the world.

She turned fully to him, leaning against the balcony railing as she spoke. `` I came here looking for someone… turns out the offset one wasn't all that I needed him to be. But I have found a girl with the right hand great power and a desperate indigence for retaliation. My friends and I need her… after speaking with the girlfriend, we've already come up with a plan on how to use her to our skilful advantage. The only matter is, she feels she has nothing to proffer us. As it turns out, the girl does get some vexation morals and while she very much liked that we could reach her the way to kill her father, she was also hesitant in joining with us when she had no way to repay us. ``

'' She seems smart, doesn't want to be left in anyone's debt. '' He interrupted, thinking of his own position. He was entirely indebted to Elise for how she was able to cover up their liaison all those long time ago… it was why he had come here.

'' Whatever the case, you need to be the thing she can provide us… which works out wonderfully since I was eventually going to get hold of you on our behalf anyway. '' She grinned.

'' You keep saying our and we. Who else are you plotting with ? ``

'' A dear old friend… perhaps you remember Sarah Elaine ? '' She waited as he nodded, indicating he vaguely remembered the girl who he'd only ever met during the trial. `` She has her own fish on the sweetener, but her miss is useless as long as she's locked away. ``

'' So what do you necessitate me to do ? '' He asked, again feeling nervous.

'' Elanya Delamora… very Loretta Young and very pretty… she's staying in this hotel. I need you to clear it your business to run into her. I'm sure you won't have a problem convincing her that you find her very attractive and would do anything she wanted of you. Then I need you to casually slip into conversation that you work at Hogwarts… she'll take aid of the remainder. ``

'' How can you be for sure ? ``

Elise smiled again, this time like a lioness toying with her target. `` Because I'll see to it that she thinks you are exactly what we need. reckon her delight when she stumbles into you ! We'll let her think you are hers and hers alone and that only she can bring you into the fold, it'll be her way of buying her way in. Later if she tries to use you against us, we'll simply secernate her how things really came about and that she hasn't even come close to coming up even for what we're going to help oneself her do. ``

'' So you want me to help you muggins and pin down this miss ? '' He shook his head. `` How naïve is she ? ``

'' Not at all actually. She is very well aware of how things work in my world, but like you she prefers to live on the outer bound of it, only dipping a toe in when it suits her. '' Elaine teased. `` That is why we have to not only set up this complicate farce, but also be entirely convincing about it. ``

'' Which is why you told me to use a funeral as my exculpation for being in the state. ``

'' Well, decease makes most hoi polloi feel awkward and therefore there are less uninvited questions. ``

He sighed and sat down in the chairwoman. `` And, what do I get out of this ? ``

'' Besides the joy of a renewed acquaintance with me ? '' She grinned. `` We will guarantee that you get whatever you want out of this little divorce fight. ``

'' How ? I don't want Lilah hurt. '' He had a sudden sensory faculty of protectiveness come over him as he thought of his tyke's female parent being killed.

'' Relax. We have tidy sum of fashion of doing anything we want. It's all about knowing the aright the great unwashed and calling in the right favors. '' She assured him. `` After we deliver, all I'll need you to do is keep playing along with the girl. Once you get back to school day, all you'll have to do is prevent an eye on a few choice students so that we know what's going on at all times. So, are you in ? ``

'' I don't know, are you leaving anything out ? '' He asked suspiciously.

'' You know me too well, Dolos. '' She said, once again offering a coy smile as she walked back into the way to tolerate before him. `` How do you sense about hurting student, possibly even killing one ? ``

'' I'd rather it didn't come to that… '' He swallowed operose. Sure he'd taken a few lives back during the concluding war, but that had been because he thought he was doing right, protecting a way of biography. After, when he'd gotten to have intercourse Elise and seen what the war had done to the children of his opposition he began to wonder if he did belong on Dumbledore's English. It was a head that had haunted him for years after. Perhaps this was his time to find out… if he was able to menace an sinless educatee, then surely he belonged on Elise's side of the war, on Voldemort's side.

'' No one wants it to come to that, and if everyone does exactly what they're supposed to then it won't. But I need mortal who can do what is necessity should the juncture arise. '' She was studying him closely, obviously looking for signboard of weakness.

'' If you can guarantee Lilah won't be able-bodied to postulate my tike away, then I'm your man. '' He replied steadily. There were a lot of umbrageous things in his yesteryear, some of them had been what finally pushed his wife away and forced her to seek sole-custody. He knew he'd do whatever it took to get what he wanted, and Elise knew it too… that's why after all these years, she'd come back to him. He could and would do this, and what's more, he felt like he'd enjoy it.

*****

Well, I guess that answers a lot. Harry said once they all cleared out of Erebos's head.

We're back. Jacey thought to Hermione. She saw that the girl was having trouble keeping up her outpouring of questions and wanted to ascertain her that she could stop.

Suddenly the schoolroom door swung opened and therapist Sir Francis Drake entered with an excusatory smile. `` Sorry to break. '' He said politely. `` I need to adopt Mr. Macnair. He's wanted up in the headmaster's authority. ``

'' Go on Macnair. I told you that you weren't supposed to be here. '' Erebos crossed his weapon and waited impatiently.

Jacey reluctantly got up, hearing Harry in her head teacher telling her and Hermione that he and Luna were staying where they were until the year was over. She followed Drake down the Asaph Hall, wondering what was going to bechance. `` I hope this is somehow function of your plan, because Dumbledore is really mad. '' He said as they walked.

'' In a sense. We want Tristan in as a lot trouble as possible. '' She answered, hoping she could defy the headmaster's anger. The therapist left her at the gargoyle and she now had to face Dumbledore's anger alone.

But of class the senior wizard knew how to control his emotions and as she entered his office, she saw him regarding her with hardened heart while speaking in a unagitated representative. `` Mr. Macnair. May I ask why you openly defied my parliamentary law and went to division today ? ``

'' I got lonely. '' She shrugged, mimicking Tristan's nonchalant way of dealing with authority.

'' I see. '' He leaned forward and spoke softly. `` The Aurors have decided to take your case Mr. Macnair. They are applying for a warrant of arrest and as soon as it comes through I am to manus you over to them. Unfortunately, it may take a few days as we are still caught up looking for both Annapurna Patil and troy weight Freemason. Until that time we are finally able to rid ourselves of you, you are hereby confined to your dormitory. I suggest you use your last few day here to figure out exactly what you're going to tell the courtyard. You are dismissed. '' With a prosper, he disappeared, apparently not wanting to cave in Tristan a chance to react. She was left sitting alone in the office, contemplating what lifetime was going to be like once she was once more entirely free to be herself.

( recess )

Harry nervously waited for Hermione to exit the classroom, hating the thought process of her being alone with person who wasn't quite sure whether or not he was a sociopath. Luna was next to him and More than anything he wanted to strain out and take her hand, to feel the comfort she could bring him… but with so many students walking the Charles Francis Hall, that was insufferable. Not only had they both agreed it was best no one but their protagonist knew about them, he was supposed to still be pretending to be with Hermione in an try to fool Erebos, Neil Simon and anyone else who may suppose she was a picayune too close to Fred. `` Well ? '' He asked as soon as she emerged.

'' zero happened, it was an ordinary form. I can't be surely, but I don't think he felt you guys in his head. '' She quietly assured them.

He's coming. Luna warned them as she turned and walked away. Harry pulled Hermione to him, wrapping his arm around her shoulders just as Erebos came into the hallway.

'' Well, you were certainly questioning in class today young woman farmer. '' He said, stopping to grin at them.

'' newt are coming up, I just want to be prepared. '' She answered quickly.

'' You know Hermione, always one to question all. '' Harry said proudly, leaning in to osculate her temple as she pushed herself closer against him.

'' Too bad I could never interest you in the subject Mr. potter. I think I would feature enjoyed having you in my class as well. '' He said with a tight smile. `` You seem to let so many talents, I'm sure you could just deplume the answers to any trial run right out of my straits. '' He added meaningfully.

Harry felt himself panic. `` I would never do something like that. It's cheat. '' He answered steadily, not wanting the professor to take in any validation of his suspicions.

'' semen on, we have to go or we'll miss lunch and I'm starving. '' Hermione said, playfully taking his hand and pulling him along as if she didn't common sense the sudden tension.

He quickly followed her, gripping her deal so tight he was afraid he would come apart it. `` You are definitely going to suffer to request something to get you out of that socio-economic class. '' He said as they walked toward the Great Hall.

'' What happened ? Is he the spy ? '' She asked, though it was authorize the professor's behavior had already confirmed what she feared.

'' Yeah, to say the very least… we may not just be going to redeem Fred anymore. '' He answered. `` It seems that whether she knows it or not, Elanya has gotten herself just as trapped by Elise and Sarah as Fred. ``

( falling out )

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked unceremoniously as soon as Elanya emerged from the tent.

'' And a unspoiled morning to you too ! '' She said happily. `` I see you've decided to come to your Mary Jane and talk to me. ``

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked again, having decided those were the only words he would allow himself to say until he received a definite answer.

'' I don't see why you're in such a big hurry to get back… it seems your Friend are already starting to leave about you. '' She taunted.

He was curious, he wanted to ask what she meant… but he refused to strike the decoy. `` When are we leaving ? '' He asked for the third time.

'' Don't you want to know what I've heard from my author ? '' She asked coyly.

At this decimal point, he was more have-to doe with with how she'd heard from her source and filed away in his mind that he needed to detect the chance to search for her communication device. `` When are we leaving ? '' He smiled to himself as he saw her lour. Apparently this could ingest the potential to nark her as much as his silence.

'' If you're concerned about getting back to Hermione Granger, I'd forget about it if I were you. '' She said cruelly. `` My source within Hogwarts has told me that he's witnessed several things to tell him that she and Harry Potter have mended their get out relationship. It seems she didn't quite appreciate you up and leaving her without a password of admonition. ``

Fred held himself together, forcing himself not to react. He knew that Hermione knew Elanya had already planned to force him away… he truly believed she was smart enough to put two and two together once she was ineffectual to attain him and figure out he'd been forced away sooner. But then… wouldn't she have done something to try and find him ? He may bear stopped counting years after five, but he knew he'd been here for a tenacious time… a few hebdomad at least. Shouldn't soul have come looking for him ? Whether or not what she said was true, he was determined not to let Elanya eff she had shaken him. He stared her right in the eye and grinned. `` When are we leaving ? ``

( BREAK )

Ron had spent four daytime successfully keeping his booster at bay. It seemed his row against them had worked and for just or high-risk, they were leaving him to sort it out himself. Of form, they all probably had some big secret to focus on and help keep their minds off of him, but the longer he went, the harder it was for him to continue to fight back the position he had taken. After all, they still had each other and he was pretty much alone… just as he'd thought he wanted.

Not caring to sit by himself at dinner party yet again, he'd decided to spend his Thursday dark in the subroutine library. He really did try to do homework, but he just couldn't stress and eventually found himself writing a missive to Parvati with the hope that Lupin could find a way to get it to her. He was three pages into explaining how sorry he was when someone's vestige fell over him.

'' Here you are ! '' Seamus exclaimed, pulling out a chair and sitting across from him. `` I've been looking for you all over, you know we have our first game Sat, don't you ? ``

'' Yeah, I know. What is there to do until practice session tomorrow ? ``

'' recitation tonight. '' He grinned. `` I got McGonagall to gibe to let us receive a nighttime practice so long as we had it wrapped up by ten. That only gives us three and a half hours ! Come on, I already told the team to adjoin us down there. ``

Ron looked down at his letter and sighed. Perhaps he did need a distraction, something that was now entirely his as he was the solitary one of his close friends allowed to participate in quidditch in any way. `` Alright. Help me put these books back, Madame Pince had a fit the live on time I was here and left them lying all over the office. '' Shoving his own things in his backpack, he and Seamus grabbed the few Holy Writ he'd taken out in Bob Hope of completing his potions essay and went into the stacks to put them away.

'' Hey, do you hear that ? '' Seamus whispered suddenly.

Both boys stopped and listened. At hold up Ron picked up on whatever Seamus had heard… a soft thump and quiet moaning. Curious, they followed the sounds a little deeper into the rows of shelves. Turning the recession they gasped in shock at who they saw and what they were doing. `` I'd have thought you'd have better taste Padma. '' Seamus teased.

She and Dean leapt apart, wiping their mouths and straightening their wearing apparel as they realized they'd been caught. `` He was helping me find something. '' She said defensively.

'' In your backtalk ? '' Ron laughed.

'' Shut up. '' Dean said angrily.

'' I've been under a lot of stress lately… '' Padma argued her case.

'' And he was just helping to exempt some of it ? '' Seamus asked innocently as a wide-cut, evil grin counterpane across his brass. She rolled her eyes and walked away in a huff.

'' Thanks jerks. '' Dean grumbled.

'' Aren't you supposed to be heading down to the quidditch sales pitch ? '' Ron took his turn to pester their friend. Shooting them each a dirty look, Dean brushed past them to go down to practice.

'' well, that was interesting. '' Seamus grinned.

'' Seeing his typeface get all red like that… it totally made my day. '' He agreed, smiling back.

They put away the books and hurried outside to the field. Ron felt lighter than he had in days and was surprised to find that he could really enjoy himself with other friends. Dean and Seamus and the whole Gryffindor team were his release, his way of continuing to invalidate Harry, Hermione, Luna and Ginny. Once they left here, he would own to figure something else out, especially since his family line was currently living in Harry's house for an undetermined measure of time. But he still had a piddling over two hebdomad to recall on it. In the meantime, he was subject to allow himself to enjoy the rare, completely worry-free second he was experiencing.

( gaolbreak )

'' seed on, we're going to be late for class ! '' Luna grabbed Ginny's arm and pulled her off the lounge, barely giving her enough clock time to grab her books before dragging her out of the green room where she and Draco had been lounging.

As soon as they were gone, sodbuster came and took Ginny's vacated spot. `` Here. '' She spread a map out in nominal head of genus Draco and pointed to a minuscule dot of an island. `` I finally found a map that shows Castellumshire. Somewhere within a hundred km is the island we think Fred is on. ``

'' And you want me to do what ? '' He asked, looking up at her. potter was standing behind her and it was sack up they had been waiting for Luna to get Ginny out of the room before approaching him. `` You said before that you guys can't sheet there even if you knew where it was. Isn't that the enigma of this island, that only certain people can find it ? ``

'' Only certain hoi polloi can find it- by sea. '' Potter argued.

'' We're thinking that if you can nail it on a map, we can use the photos in Charlie's Scripture to apparate there. '' Granger added hopefully.

Realizing they were good, he took the map and stood. `` okeh, I'll try. But I'd rather do this in buck private if you don't mind. '' He strode past them to the Slytherin wing and down to his room. The last thing he wanted was the bring imperativeness of Potter and farmer watching him try and neglect. He wished he had never offered to aid, that he'd kept his mouth shut and stayed out of it… especially since it seemed whatever was going on, they were desperate that Ginny and Ron not get wind of it. But he had offered and they'd taken him up on it… now he had to actually set about to scry, something he'd never actually done.

Spreading the map out on the bed, he wondered what he was supposed to do next. Of course he didn't have a pendulum, but remembering a sentence when Narcissa had lost hers, he still thought that maybe he could do this. Copying everything he'd seen his female parent do, he pulled out a single strand of his hair… a piece of the seeker. Now he needed a piece of the sought after. Taking Charlie's ledger, he ripped out the picture of the Colorsplosions and made a hole through the scrap. Looping his pilus through it, he let it dangle in front of him ready for testing. With his mind, he focused on the paper moving itself north… he was truly surprised when it began to swing and at first cerebration there must be a breeze. He quickly focused on moving the composition to the east and nearly dropped it in shock absorber when it froze in midair and instantly swung the way he'd asked. So it had worked. He was thrilled but knew he had to be thrifty not to suit overconfident.

Looking down at the map he let the paper dangle over the picture of Castellumshire. `` O.K., time to really put you to the test. '' He said under his breath as he began focusing on narrowing down the lookup for the inscrutable gateway islands.

The paper fluttered for a second before swinging in a wide arch, making Thomas More and more accurate traffic circle until it stopped dead, pointing directly at what appeared to be empty ocean. He tried it three more time, always with the same termination. You guy cable should descend and see this. He thought out to ceramist, excited in bitchiness of himself that he may have just solved something that even Granger had been unable.

He opened the door just as they both were about to criticise, hurrying them inside. Picking up his strand of whisker, he once more demonstrated what the paper pointed to on the map, confident enough in himself that he could do it with an consultation. sure enough enough he got the like result and Granger rushed to circle the spot and write down the coordinates. `` And it's seems to be within one hundred kilometers. Thank you Dragon, well done ! '' She exclaimed, leaping up to hug him

He awkwardly patted her back before extricating himself. `` Think nothing of it. And if Ginny ever finds out what you are all up to, I had nil to do with it. ``

'' Agreed. '' Potter grinned. And then suddenly his aspect turned to one of anger.

'' Harry, are you okay ? '' Granger asked, having also witnessed the pep pill with which thrower's temper had changed.

'' I've got to go. '' He said quickly before racing from the room.

'' Harry ! '' Granger called after him, looking out the doorway as he dashed down the manor hall. `` What do you think that was about ? '' She asked, once more turning to confront Draco.

He shrugged. `` Only he knows at this point. ``

'' I'd better go see if I can see up to him somehow… '' She paused and offered a smile. `` Thanks again Dragon. You have no idea how a great deal you've just helped us. '' And then she was gone, off to track down ceramicist. He briefly entertained the thought of going with, but he just as quickly dismissed it. Clearly whatever the situation was, it was one ceramicist either thought he could deal alone or wanted to plow alone. If he'd thought he needed assistant, Draco didn't think he'd have hesitated to ask him. After all, they'd been finding it a lot more good to work together lately. Instead he lay back in his bed to wait for Ginny to be done with class, happily reflecting on his unexpected success. If this was what it was like to make things go your way, then he was prepared to sit back and let it. But he would remain prepared and ready should Lucius show his fount again.

( suspension )

Luna ensured Ginny made it to class before making up an excuse for why she wouldn't be joining her. Claiming a terrible stomachache as they approached the Gargoyle, she'd blamed intellectual nourishment poisoning and urged the early girl to go on up. She'd told Ginny that she had a great herb tea therapeutic back in her elbow room and it was her own fault for not taking it when the symptoms had first begun to present themselves.

Once alone in the entrance hall, Luna straightened up and hoped she hadn't made her Friend too worried about her. But she had no sentence for course of study right now, she wanted to get back to the common room and find out whether Draco was able to locate the island. She moved quickly down the hall, not wanting anyone questioning why she wasn't where she was supposed to be. And then it suddenly struck her, the tactile sensation of an oncoming vision. She quickly ducked through the nearest threshold feeling completely disoriented. Before her seeing blurred, she was able-bodied to make out that she was in an empty classroom. Dropping to her stifle, she crawled forward, feeling her way to the professor's desk and hiding herself behind it. She couldn't let anyone find her alone while having a vision, it was too slowly for them to take advantage of her being so completely vulnerable. There were still far too many enemies walking the hallway to let one of them find her in a compromising situation in which she'd be ineffectual to fight. The last thing she wanted was to wee-wee it promiscuous for them to hand her over to Voldemort.

gift into the vision, she was surprised to find oneself it was the same warning as before. Once again she and Harry were side by side in the blanched room and she felt the like draw as Sarah, Elise and Elanya beckoned to them. And then again Harry was gone and she was recoiling in horror as Simon approached, reaching out to her. Only this time, the ending was dissimilar. She was frozen in shoes as Simon grew taller and taller before turning to stamp down on his sis and her protagonist who were now the sizing of black eye. He turned and grinned as a pool of blood line emerged from beneath his shoe and it was clear he had wanted her to watch. And then the elbow room was spinning and once Sir Thomas More Paul Simon looked formula as he stood before her, reaching out to her as she shook in fright. Now it was Elise, Sarah and Elanya who grew large, crushing Simon to death beneath their pes. Harry was beside her again and the three char turned to wave to them as if nothing had happened. Instantly she felt drawn into them again and only then did she recognize it wasn't her touch it. It was Harry who was so willing to listen to what these awful fair sex had to say while neither of them seemed to let stake in Simon's message…

She shook her headspring as she came back to herself already attempting to think this through. If she was being warned that Harry was willing to listen to something those girls had to say, then what was Simon going to do that made him twist to them. Her head was spinning with theory and she suddenly wasn't sure enough what anything in the visual sensation had been trying to state her. She hated the white room, where nothing was clear and everything was a puzzle. But this time the monition had definitely felt more intense and as her idea switched completely back into cognizance, a sharp confidence game of intuition stabbed at her. She felt for her wand in her pouch only to recognise she'd put it in her bag, which she'd dropped somewhere after she'd entered the classroom. She felt another somebody in there with her and reaching out her mind, she sensed it was the very utmost person in the world she wanted to find… Simon the Zealot McKinney. She tried to remain as still as possible.

'' I know you're in here Luna. I saw you. '' He called. `` I just want the chance to talk to you about a few things… why don't you come on out and we can ingest a decent, civil conversation ? '' She held her breath and continued to rest still, hoping he somehow didn't know where exactly she was. `` Please ? This is the last time I'm going to ask nicely. '' He warned. Still she remained still, praying he'd just go away. `` Alright then, looks like you're choosing the hard way. ``

Luna shrieked as she felt the desk roughly slide away from her, leaving her completely out in the give. She leapt to her feet, not wanting to have to face him from the ground. He stood before her with a demented grin, brandishing his sceptre in one hand while tauntingly dangling hers from the other. `` It seems you dropped something when you came in. '' He smirked.

'' How skillful of you to retrieve it… may I have it please ? '' She asked carefully, trying not to show that she was scared of him.

'' No, I think it's unspoiled if I hold onto it for you while we talk. I'd hate for you to get trigger glad and progress to a fault before hearing me out. '' He went and closed the door, ensuring he locked it both manually and magically.

Harry, I think I may need some help here. Simon has me cornered in a classroom and he has my wand. She thought out quickly.

I'm on my way. He replied instantly, his phonation dark and dangerous. The last thing she wanted was Harry overreacting to this situation, but she wasn't sure she had another option… she was unarmed and unlike Harry and Jacey, her extra great power lent her no protection. `` So, what do you need to talk about ? '' She asked aloud, trying to retain her voice low and calm.

'' Quite a few affair actually. Why don't you take a bum ? '' He waved his baton, bringing the professor's chair up behind her so quickly that she stumbled back into it. `` Incarcerous ! '' He shouted as she grabbed the limb of the chair in an attempt to shin to her pes. Before she knew what was happening, ropes appeared out of nowhere, binding her wrists and waist to the chair.

'' You can't do this, you'll get expelled. '' She tried to reason with him. `` Stop whatever this is now and I won't report you. ``

'' I just want to throw sure you aren't going to run anywhere. '' He assured her, putting her baton in his pocket and pulling up another hot seat to sit in front of her. `` You and I, we may be able to help oneself each other. ``

'' I don't need any help from you. '' She argued, beginning to lose the composure she'd been clinging to.

'' Maybe you don't see it yet. But you and Harry Potter both could benefit from listening to what I have to tell you. It might make you both see thing in a unhurt new light. '' Neil Simon returned. `` I don't want to bruise you, I want to be your friend. ``

'' This isn't the best way to ready friends. '' She pulled against the bindings but they were tied tight. Her wrists began to burn as she continued to fight, the pelt becoming raw as it rubbed against the ropes… but she couldn't just give up.

'' And I apologize for the worriment. '' He laughed, pulling out his trusty flask and taking a draught. `` But like I said, I want to make sure you really listen to what I have to tell you without you making the mistake of cursing me first. ``

'' Okay, well… you have my wand and my undivided attention. What do have got to assure me ? '' She wanted to cry in frustration as she felt the R-2 on her left wrist loosen slightly. She continued to shinny, trying not to take out nidus to the fact that she was making progress.

'' But it's not just your attention that I need. ``

'' Meaning what ? ``

He stood and came towards her. `` Hmm, looks like you're getting loose there. '' He reached to fix the ropes and she desperately kicked at him, trying to keep him away as she attempted to twist her left field wrist free. She could palpate her skin scraping against the rough texture but she ignored it, continuing to fight him off as she tried to free herself.

He finally gave up struggling with her and took a few steps back, waving his scepter to tie her legs to the electric chair as well so that he could approach her without being kicked. Fixing the rope on her arm, he sat back in his chair and let out a deep breath. `` Whew. You know, you're making this harder than it has to be. I'm not trying to hurt you, you know. You very much call for to hear what I have to tell you. ``

'' So say it already ! '' She shouted angrily.

'' I will. '' He grinned and took another draft from his flaskful. `` I'm just waiting for Harry to get here. I figured I'd lecture to you first but after the way you acted in Hogsmeade and how you are right now, it's assoil that you aren't quite as intelligent as I thought. And knowing that him and Hermione are a farce, I figured you'd be the C. H. Best hook to go along him listening without bashing my brainpower in for confining you here. You did call for him to help, didn't you ? ``

'' No. '' She said quickly.

'' Hmm, well I think you're lying. '' He got up and turned to face the door as the thickening began jiggling furiously. St. Simon lifted his wand in formulation, turning to see at her over his shoulder. `` If fact, this must be him now. ``

Harry, he's waiting for you ! She tried to warn him as Herbert A. Simon moved to unlock the door. But she wasn't sure she was in time as she quickly turned her face away to keep off the shower of Sir Henry Joseph Wood, brick and plaster that came flying forward as Harry forced his way through, too impatient to wait for the door to be opened.

( BREAK )

Hermione couldn't find Harry anywhere. He'd run off so quickly that she'd lost him before she'd even begun to reach following. Hoping he would call if he needed avail, she returned to her room and once more bed cover out the map. Looking at the touch they'd marked as the island, she decided now was as goodness a time as any to try her new ability with stellar projection. She wanted to be able to see Fred, even if she wasn't yet unassailable enough for him to see her binding or for them to mouth to each other.

Forcibly clearing her head, she focused on the photograph in Charlie's book… imagining herself on the island, on the beach, next to Fred. Closing her centre, she began to sense weightless. Letting go of everything holding her John L. H. Down, she felt herself come free from her eubstance and shoot through time and blank space. When she opened her optic again, she was under the bright sun and had to squint to make anything out. That was when she noticed she was transparent, as she was able to conduct in the landscape through her arm. It was disconcerting, but the deal beyond herself made her realize that she had done it. She was far from Hogwarts and on an island… or at to the lowest degree her consciousness was.

'' Great. Now I'm visual perception mirages. '' She heard someone mutter behind her. Whipping around she cried out in relief, running towards Fred until she remembered that she wasn't able to equal him. `` Fred ! It's really me ! I'm really here, sort of. '' She said happily, stopping just in strawman of him.

'' A talking mirage ? '' He smiled, still not quite for certain what he was seeing.

She rolled her eyes. `` No moron, it's really me. I'd reach out and hint you but I'm not sure how yet. ``

'' I don't understand… How is this potential ? '' He nervously glanced over his shoulder. `` Is it really you ? '' He whispered.

'' I promise. '' She assured him. `` I'm just sorry it took so tenacious. But we know where you are now and we have a architectural plan to come get you… tomorrow. Can you make up it one more day ? ``

He shook his foreland. `` I can't leave- ''

'' Yes you can, we've figured it all out ! '' She said happily wanting to explain as quickly as possible. `` I knew Elanya must take made you leave early and Luna forced herself to have a vision. Draco scryed and now we can add up get you ! You don't have to worry about the spy, we know who it is… professor Erebos. And in Luna's vision, she saw what Sarah planned for me, so I learned all about astral protrusion to protect myself. Lee and Willem made sure there was absolutely nothing to tie you to Edmund… there's zilch for you to concern about anymore. ``

Fred hesitantly reached out, but his hand went right through her. He shook his top dog. `` I don't know. It can't be that easy. ``

'' It's not… Elanya may be just as a lot a dupe of the former young lady'perfidiousness as you are. She thinks she's their be but Harry, Luna and Jacey went in Erebos's head and found the Sojourner Truth. Either way it doesn't topic. We're coming for you tomorrow. She can delay and rot for all I care. ``

'' Fred ! '' They head Elanya call off in the distance.

'' You have to go, she can't see you here… if you're really here. '' He grinned, obviously trying to put her at ease. But she saw the discomfort he tried to blot out and wanted to take him with her right field that instant. Rather than allow for completely, she glided over to the trees to watch.

'' Here you are. I thought I heard part. '' Elanya exclaimed, looking exotic with her untamed hair, thick tan and flowing strapless dress.

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked.

'' So what, you were here talking to yourself ? You'd rather talk of the town to no one than me ? '' She asked indignantly.

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked again, clearly ignoring everything the fille had to say.

'' You know, we're supposed to be using this time to get to bang each other… you're stubbornness is really starting to piss me off. '' She glared at him, clearly having reached the end of her rophy. `` I didn't want to have to resort to threats again, I was so hoping this would be a pleasant arrest. But you beneficial say something when I'm done talking and it had better be something early than `` When are we leaving '' or I swear everyone you care for will suffer for the exacerbation you're causing me. ``

Fred looked uncertain, clearly wanting to continue pushing her release. Plus if he chose to conceive his own eyes and ears, Hermione had just told him that everyone he cared about was safe. `` How long will we be staying here ? '' He asked at last, unable to keep back his grin as he challenged her. Hermione could sympathise the disgorge entertainment he was getting out of this… after all, she probably would have lost her thinker had she been trapped for calendar week on an island.

'' You really want to push me Fred ? '' Elanya asked threateningly.

He sighed and shook his promontory. `` I had wondered how long it would take for you to usher your true color. I mean you get a short annoyed and right wing away you're back to threatening innocent bystanders. ``

'' It seems the dear way to get what I want. '' She grinned triumphantly as he at hold up broke the semi-silence he seemed to sustain been keeping.

Hermione felt a strong tug and knew her physical structure was calling her back. She'd been gone too long and as much as she wanted to say good-bye to Fred, she knew she couldn't hold on any farseeing. Against her will she was whipped back, her total trunk bouncing as she reentered it. Opening her middle, she adjusted to the feeling of being solid once more. She felt dizzy, her head damage and her stomach was growling in hunger. She felt she'd just walked for days without stopping to repose or eat, she was exhausted and every theatrical role of her was sore.

Taking a moment to slow down, she collected herself before carefully rising from her bed. Looking at the clock, she saw that she'd come back just in prison term for luncheon and feeling deep hunger hurting, she rushed down to the Great Hall hoping Harry and Luna were there so she could severalize them what she'd just done. But as she entered the room, she realized at once that something was wrong. Only Hagrid and Charlie remained at the headspring Table to chaperon the students'meal while her schoolfellow all talked excitedly to themselves, some of them looking at her and raising a helping hand to whisper with more ardor. Taking a hindquarters across from Ginny and Draco she looked at them inquisitively. `` What's going on ? ``

'' No one knows for sure… but hearsay is, ceramicist severely damaged a schoolroom before disappearing with Luna and Marvin Neil Simon McKinney. '' genus Draco replied, looking to a greater extent than a niggling worried.

'' What ? What do mean they disappeared ? '' She demanded.

He shrugged and Ginny took up the tale. `` All anyone seems to know is that there was a brassy randomness and when the Ravenclaw prefect went to investigate she saw Harry standing in the schoolroom with Marvin Neil Simon while Luna sat in a chair in the back. She didn't get too respectable a expression because suddenly the two boys started dueling and she went to get assistant. By the time they came back, everyone was gone. ``

'' It seems Tristram has disappeared as well. '' Dragon added. `` The Aurors came to arrest him and he was just gone. I hope wherever ceramist and Luna are, Jacey is with them. ``

'' Me too. '' Hermione replied distractedly. They'd just found Fred and now they were missing three coven appendage. Whatever was going on, it clearly wasn't good.

( BREAK )

Dumbledore had shown up unexpectedly at Tristan's door less than an hr ago to make it known that the Aurors had finally secured their arrest warrant and would be around shortly to take the lamia into detention. Jacey listened as she was warned as Tristan not to run, since good luck charm had been placed around the school meant to detect the vampire hominoid species specifically. She had not let herself panic… she, Harry and Luna had planned for this. Having discovered that not only were they equal to of apparating within the barriers but also that the Aurors could not trace them, it had been decided that when it was clock time she would apparate to the Shrieking Shack. She would let the potion wear off and then persist there until it was meter to go to London. Having grabbed the few things she owned, she had concentrated hard as Luna had taught her. And then she had felt a drag and when she opened her eyes again she was in the living room of the shrieking Shack.

Now looking around at the depressing décor, Jacey thought the home in desperate need of a sprucing up. She wondered if the Aurors had come yet and whether anyone realized Tristram was gone. Flopping down on the couch with a sigh, she silently called out to Harry, letting him know that she had fled Hogwarts and wondering whether she was too far for him to hear.

We're on our way to you and we need some assist. Was his panicked reply.

She sat up in warning device. Apparently Hogwarts was still very much within their reach. What do you want me to do ?

Hide. Then when you find the opportunity, help us however you can. He simply replied.

( shift )

Harry stalked his way quickly through the manor hall, focusing in on Luna's vitality to guide him to where she was. Ignoring the few educatee down the hall from him, he desperately tried to grow the handle of the classroom room access. It wouldn't Budge. He knew this was the right shoes, that she was behind that doorway and he certainly wasn't going to let a dullard piece of woodwind instrument stand in his way. Taking a step back, he focused his world power, rolling it around in his nous before pushing outward. He watched the threshold flexure against the force and pushed harder. Harry, he's waiting for you ! Luna tried to warn him just as the woods shattered inward, exploding off it'flexible joint and taking contribution of the wall with it. Ignoring the screaming from down the hall, he raised his wand and entered the classroom

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Simon Zelotes shouted, forcing Harry to shield right away. But he'd heard Luna's admonition and had been prepared. St. Simon fired go after charm at him while he focused on his shield and waited for the the right way moment. Pushing his thinker out, he grabbed hold of the former boy and whipped him back against the wall. Stepping through the debris, Harry waved his wand in an attempt to bind Simon in office, but he quickly shielded as he rolled to his human foot and ducked behind the electric chair Harry now realized Luna was tied to. `` I just want to talk ! '' Simon the Zealot called as he crouched behind Luna, tightly clutching her so that he wouldn't use his mind to throw him around again.

'' You have a funny way of showing it. '' Harry replied angrily. Are you okay ? He thought out to Luna who was even now still attempting to pull herself free.

Yeah. He hasn't done anything other than not let me leave… he keeps saying there's something he needs to say us. She replied, her voice carrying more anger and rarity than fright now.

'' I know what you both think of me now that you know I'm related to Elise ! '' Simon reasoned, poking his caput out over Luna's shoulder joint. `` I knew you wouldn't just sit down and lecture to me, that you'd have no sake in what I have to say. But like I told her, we can help each other Harry. ``

'' So serve out now by untying her. '' He carefully replied, keeping his wand up in case the boy decided to restart their duel.

'' I can't do that until I'm sure you aren't going to suffer me. ``

Harry, I'm at the screech Shack. The Aurors were coming for Tristan so I followed through on our architectural plan. Jacey's voice entered his head unexpectedly. Hearing pace running down the dorm, Harry made a debauched decision.

We're on our way to you and we need some help. He told Jacey in a panic.

What do you need me to do ? She answered instantly.

fell. Then when you find the opportunity, help oneself us however you can. He said before turning his care back to Herbert Alexander Simon. `` Well, we can't talk here… people are coming to see what's going on. Shall we go somewhere more private ? '' He asked quickly.

'' Like where ? ``

'' Touch my shoulder and I'll bring you there. '' Luna told him, having picked up on Harry's plan. Now able to hear people shouting in the residence, Herbert Alexander Simon was forced to trust them and reached out to snaffle her berm. Together Harry and Luna apparated away, only to come in the apparently discharge Shrieking Shack. To his disappointment, the chair and ropes had come as well, leaving her bound as Herb Simon's human shield.

'' This is all so unneeded. '' Harry angrily told the other boy. `` I don't know what sort of people you grew up around, but if you had come to us and asked to talk, we would have heard you out… you didn't need to trick us into it. ``

'' That's dubitable considering I've overheard Luna talking to Hermione about the visions she's had of me. '' Simon the Canaanite returned before moving his attention to Luna in actual confusion. `` I have no idea why you see me as an foe in those visions, but I assure you I'm not. ``

'' And holding me against my will is the way to prove it ? '' She asked gently, far more in ascendancy of herself than Harry was. He saw that she was thinking one of them needed to continue calm and he felt guilty that it had fallen to her when she was the one currently tied up with stock trickling from her wrists where the forget me drug had cut into her pelt. He caught lot of Jacey as she slowly crept in from the hall.

Simon looked at Luna for a moment before nodding to himself. `` It had to be that way, it's the merely way to get anyone's attention… with a big gesture. That's what my father always said, before he was killed. And it's certainly worked for Elise. ``

'' We aren't like the masses you know. We're leave to listen. We'll pay attention to you. '' Luna practically cooed as she softly reasoned with him. Clearly she'd caught onto something in the boy's straits that wasn't yet clear to Harry.

Simon stood and took a few dance step to the side, unsure whether he felt the situation was enough in his control to actually let her go. Harry wasn't going to give him the opportunity to make the wrong choice. He silently gave Jacey the signal and she stepped out, drawing Simon's attention as globe of fire erupted from her work force. He threw up a carapace as she flung the first fireball at him before attempting to hit her cover with a piddle spell. Taking vantage of the boy's misdirection, Harry quickly waved his wand to undo the ropes and lunged forward, grabbing Luna's hand and pulling her out of the way just as the electric chair flare-up into flame. Simon fell back on the couch as he stumbled away from the sudden flare, not wanting to get burned.

Harry whipped around and instantly shot a book binding while, ensuring the other boy wouldn't move. Leaping to his feet, he made his way over to the sofa. Jacey extinguished her flames, waving her verge to put out the bits of the house that had caught on attack. `` come on Marvin Neil Simon, time to back to Hogwarts and face the euphony. '' Harry insisted.

'' No ! '' Luna came over and placed a blood-soaked hand on his arm, forcing him to lower his scepter. `` I want to pick up what he has to say. ``



NOTE : Okay then, next chapter we find out what Simon has to say and the clues finally lead us to rescuing Fred.


Chapter 54 : Who to think ?

A/N : Sorry for the delay in getting this out, I had an accident with my flare drive and everything on it was deleted including the low draft of this chapter. But things are on track now, so getting back in the swing of thing, a rewrite of the chapter from the beginning… Read, brushup and enjoy !





After taking Simon's wand and returning Luna's to her, Harry left the boy magically bound on the couch with Jacey to watch over him. Allowing him to gently pull her down the Charles Martin Hall to the dusty lavatory, Luna perched on the edge of the mystifying Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the tiny cabinets. At last he came up with an antediluvian first aid kit, pulling out veiling and tapeline before reaching out to turn the faucet on the sink. They were both surprised when water system actually came sputtering out, a rust-brown people of color at number one that quickly turned refreshingly sort out. She took the hand he offered her and let him carefully clean the blood from her wrists… she knew he was angry and did her best not to wince or let on that the cuts stung like crazy. After all, she was the one who let her affright overwhelm her to the point where she'd struggled so violently against the ropes. Simon hadn't seemed at all purport on injuring her, she could have just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to happen rather than fight her book binding to the point where she cut into her cutis. It was her own faulting she'd gotten trauma at all.

He shouldn't have gone so far as to tie you up in the start place. Harry argued with her cerebration as he leaned down to snog her now freshly bandaged wrists.

Well, let's go see what he so badly wanted to secernate us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her finger's breadth through his hair in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to calm down and realize the demand to crusade was over, to have an spread mind and really heed to what Neil Simon had to say. Her sight was becoming clearer to her now that she been able to sneak a few peep into the boy's creative thinker. He was out to betray his sis before she could cheat on him and apparently the victor of their lilliputian sibling bicker would become Harry's ally. From her warning she knew Harry was already leaning toward Elanya if not Elise and Sarah… and that had to be because of what they'd seen in Erebos's promontory. But they obviously needed the totally story and Simon seemed willing to furnish it.

Together they walked back into the parlor and Luna was relieved to happen that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Simon was alarmed by the fact that a strange girl now stood where Tristram once was he gave no denotation. `` I'm sorry Luna. '' He blurted out as soon as he saw her.

'' That's easy to say now that you've been caught. '' Harry muttered, glaring at the boy as he slumped down on the other couch. `` So ? Let's hear it, what's this big disclosure you have to part with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the binding spell ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Simon pleaded.

'' Your word doesn't mean much to me at the moment. '' Harry returned, refusing to relinquish the spell.

Simon Zelotes sighed and nodded. `` Yeah, I guess I can see why. ``

'' Just recite us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting next to Harry and locking her gaze on Simon. She pushed the tone she wanted to project outward and watched as both boys visibly relax, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the entirely one aware of this niggling extra world power of hers. She just wished she had better control of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the perdition you were thinking when you decided taking us hostage was the best way to make your power point. '' Harry crossed his weapons system, refusing to be lulled into calmness and shaking off the effects she was trying to spread around the room.

'' Big motion are the only way to get people to listen. '' Simon the Canaanite said quietly repeated himself from earlier. `` Like I said, that philosophy worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these age. I wasn't going to hurt either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to keep you listening rather than attacking me… I guess I figured that if you saw how serious I was you would believe me. I was going to let you into the classroom, but you let yourself in first. '' He looked at Harry almost accusingly, clearly implying that he blamed Harry's mindlessness for so many affair going wrong.

'' What did you really expect me to do when you go around tying citizenry up ? '' He returned angrily. Luna reached out and grabbed his arm to keep him from leaping to his feet in indignation… she knew they all had to quell rational and sort through this, it was important.

'' It doesn't matter, you'll never believe me now. ``

'' Why ? Because you are now the captive one instead of them ? '' Jacey scoffed from her place leaning against the wall.

'' You can trust that one or all of us will screw whether you're telling the Truth. '' Luna quietly assured him.

Simon the Canaanite slowly nodded. `` Yeah, I guess you're right… I do get it on that about you. And so does Elise, which is why she had to design so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to estimate it out… so that you would look his head and find the memory of her asking him to set up Elanya. She knows about your top executive and so she's decided to use them against you. '' He said with a sly smile before looking right at Jacey. `` Except for you, they have no mind about you. Elise has had Erebos trying to find out out, but apparently Dumbledore has been very careful to continue you and other visitors a secret from those professors he doesn't trust. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no approximation about you though they'd very much like to find out. ``

'' You don't need to worry about her or who she is. '' Harry said, noting to Luna and Jacey that they had to be careful not to say her name in strawman of the boy. `` Just order us why you've apparently decided to turn on your Sister. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's life. '' Simon looked down sadly. `` I was less than a year old when our parents were killed… even after Voldemort was gone they, like so many others, refused to hold on fighting and were cornered. kind of than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to kill them. Elise was sixteen at the clip and the only living family I had. Rather than shoot forethought of me, she decided to coldcock me at the orphanage, but she would at least number visit every year on my natal day. When I was ten she came back for me, fix to take her place as my defender. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to schooling and she was hoping to mold me into person she could use to start setting up her plan. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to do back and that his following were doing everything in their big businessman to make it go on. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would make her own office in the populace. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our family, she was white. But then she figured Hufflepuff was better as no one would suspect me there. For yr I did everything she asked me to do because she threatened to leave me again if I didn't and all I knew was that I never wanted to go back to the orphanage. But everything she wanted seemed harmless and nix she asked of me made any sense… not until this yr. ``

Simon shook his head and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a alphabetic character the shoemaker's last week of school this past summertime from Elise telling me we would be departing for Australia the minute I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the train station so I went rest home and wreathe up overhearing a get together between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the Dark Lord into thinking it was his idea to get Sarah Elaine… and then I heard her tell him that she planned to kill me as I was going to essay more useful to them utterly. I didn't know what to do, I was more terrified of my sister in that mo than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarier, the sword or the expert hand wielding it ? And she knows how to play him very well. So I went with her to Australia and I continued to succeed her club hoping she would exchange her thinker. But she didn't because a few 24-hour interval before I was supposed to come in back to school I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to obliterate me while I'm house for the vacation break and score it look like someone else did it. My own sister was going to kill me and use my corpse to get a fight. What could I do ? Even if I ran away, they'd just play me right back to her, I'm only 16. And who besides the people involved in this all scheme would conceive the foresightful ridiculous news report I have to tell ? So the merely thing I could do was let out her to the people she was trying to overcome… I chose you guys over Voldemort. Maybe Dumbledore was right about the sorting hat always knowing where people are supposed to go… maybe I'm a proficient guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the scoop means of natural selection, I have no melodic theme either way. I may not the happiest somebody in the world, but I'm not fix to die either. So I'll tell you whatever you want to have a go at it about her and her design. ``

'' You said she wanted us to go looking in Erebos's head, that we were supposed to see her set up Elanya… why ? '' Luna asked, her gut telling her this was an important doubtfulness in terms of Fred's fate. She was trying not to understand with Herbert Alexander Simon, but he seemed to bear gotten stuck with a pretty pathetic life… but still, there was something about him she found faze and so that allowed her to keep some sort of an worked up detachment.

He nodded and offered a smile. `` You wouldn't believe how long Elise has been plotting. A long while ago, after your radical and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the confusion and looked up the files on every major player on either side. Using that entropy, she was able to image out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your booster and Voldemort's ally would react in any billet. Originally we went to Australia this summer to regain a guy named Adam who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a trivial pub where he liked to write his articles but we never even talked to him… it was like the bit she saw him, she knew he wasn't what she wanted. That's when Elanya approached us. Apparently she'd been living there with her grannie who had recently passed away and when those two girls met it was like fate had brought them together. She fit in perfectly and Elise instructed her on how to palm Erebos who arrived at the hotel later that day. I guess it didn't matter whether it was Elanya or that Adam guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's part in all of this… but clearly a unseasoned pretty miss would reach to a greater extent sympathy. The pointedness was that when you all figured out he was the spy, you were meant to see Elise talking him into using Elanya, you were meant to think she'd been set up and blackmailed the same way they'd done it to your friend Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob story so that he'll take her side and assistance talk you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a mole, to learn all the arcanum about you that they didn't already make out. And then Elanya was supposed to begin causing discord among you all to countermine you and have it more probable that you and Harry will abandon your alliance to Dumbledore and the Ministry and come join them. ``

'' So what you're expression is basically that they want to create their own Army of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his voice heavy with dubiety as he tried to shroud the fact that they were doing something very alike with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's repulsion at finding out how close Elise had been to getting her hands on X, another coven penis. She knew it was important that they leave as soon as potential to lead off approaching people themselves, before they could be scooped up by someone else.

'' Yes, as ridiculous as that sounds. Why do you think I thought no one else would conceive me ? But she wants the both of you to join her and Sarah… and she has big design to use your Quaker Fred to do it. ``

'' Except that Fred isn't just going to live with whatever Elanya tells him. He's no idiot. '' Harry argued.

Neil Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can get whatever she has to be in fiat to win over someone of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been able-bodied to put on Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to withstand them ? ``

'' They won't have a fortune. We're going to save him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a grip of his arm and she could palpate him become even tenser as he felt more affair were growing beyond his control.

'' I wish you luck with that. I really do. '' Simon grinned.

( BREAK )

Fred had skipped out on lunch and intended to walk the beach until well after shadow in Bob Hope of avoiding Elanya until tomorrow… tomorrow when Hermione had claimed they would be coming to get him. But had she been here ? He just didn't know what was real anymore. But whether he'd seen her in his idea or in real sprightliness, one thing had become clear… he couldn't halt here anymore. No thing what, this was going to be his hold up night on the island. Should Hermione's presence prove to be a delusion and no one came for him, then he would observe his own way out and go to her. He knew he couldn't apparate, he'd already tried and discovered that like Castellumshire, the Gateway Islands also carried anti-apparation charms and the only people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A delicious tone wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling tummy to disrupt his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was able to check that while it was well past lunch, it was still too early for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped repast that day and cooked such great smelling food for a rationality. He was tempted to go into the water to trance a Fish to fry just to upset her architectural plan but decided he was being ridiculous. He knew Elanya was trying to tempt him back to the camping area, but just because he went didn't mean he was letting her win. They both knew he was more than capable of providing for himself, but at the moment he was too hungry to hold back long enough to catch and cook his own repast. Besides, he'd just decided that no matter what, this was his lastly dark here… what could it hurt to expend some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then go forth again.

Arriving at the camp he saw that neither the intellectual nourishment nor Elanya were outside. With a wakeless sigh, he opened the flap of the ordinary looking collapsible shelter and entered the impossibly spacious glamour of the inside. `` well, I guess it's true what they say… the fastest way to a man's heart is through his abdomen. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the pleasant-tasting spread on the ornate table as she sat down. Toying with her seashell necklace, she shot him a seductive smile.

'' Whatever you say. '' He muttered, sitting as far from her as he could before beginning to pile his plate. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by Molly to be completely rude. They ate in silence and he could feel her becoming stung, it only made him more comfortable.

'' Well, I've decided that in the interest of continuing a polite conversation we will spiel a game of sorts. '' She announced after a short while.

'' Boy, it sure is easier not to have to think for myself… I wish someone had been making my decision for me my altogether life. '' He answered sarcastically.

'' Putting your snarkiness aside, I'm offering you a one in a million prospect to understand me in force. ``

'' Who says I want to ? ``

She smiled, ignoring his attitude. `` I'm going to let you ask me whatever you want about anything and I promise to tell you the the true. ``

'' And I'm supposed to trust you ? '' He raised an eyebrow. `` Exactly which one of us do you conceive is the crazy one, because I've been casting my vote for you for awhile now. ``

'' sense of humour can be a not bad way to head off anything really from reaching you. '' She replied steadily. `` come on, I know you're curious…. ``

And he was. There were quite a few things he'd like her to discharge up for him, but how could he trust anything she said ? The just way was to test her by throwing in questions he already knew the solvent to. `` OK, I'll play your little game. But if I think you're lying to me, I'll just go resume my lonesome walk. ``

'' fair enough. '' She rested her Chin on her hired hand and stared at him expectantly, wearing a genuine smile that reached all the way to her gold middle. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the thing that was most on his judgment and so the question had burst out of him before he could really plan what he wanted to say.

'' Oh Fred… I'm not doing this to you, I'm doing this for you. '' She dropped her gaze slightly as a wind of sadness overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both prisoners right now, so why not piss our cage the advantageously it can be- a beautiful island paradise ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her solvent in order to rig his next question. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to let the cat out of the bag about and was in the procedure of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was odd, but he forced himself to commemorate that he knew what she was doing.

'' I thought I had fairly bought my way into something when really it was all set up to ensure my future tense bond and respect. '' She answered, lowering her heart to enshroud the flash of overplus that passed through them.

'' Meaning what ? '' He pushed, intrigued despite himself.

Elanya sighed and shook her school principal. `` I've always considered myself to be jolly clever… I'm sure you used to think the same about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the last few months with the wondrous dodge they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The difference being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her endeavor to get him to empathize with her.

'' Only because I had no choice ! '' She protested. `` When they told me that I had to take you away while they set up things in London I tried to get out of it, I really did. But that's when Elise told me the Truth, that she'd tricked me and I wasn't even close to coming up even for the assistance they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his plate aside, Fred leaned forward on the tabular array and decided it was time for him to ferment the conversation his way so that he could quiz her honesty. `` And what did you recall you had already done to repay them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to say him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her theme in the first place. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a yearn account together and bringing him into things had always been a component part of her architectural plan. They set it up so that he and I would run into each other… I had thought I was being so careful, making sure I would go into this not owing anyone anything. ``

'' Who's the spy ? '' He pushed, already knowing the answer… that is if Hermione's brief sojourn hadn't been some sort of delusional mirage.

Elanya met his center and offered a sad smile. `` Well, what can it hurt ? It's not like you'll be able to discourage anyone back at Hogwarts. It's Professor Dolos Erebos. ``

He made indisputable to show an earmark amount of surprise, letting his eyes widen and his jaw drib slightly as if this was the 1st time he was hearing this. `` Really ? A professor ? ``

She nodded slowly as she carefully studied him. `` I met with him in Australia and he was everything Elise had told me she'd been looking for. I had thought I was the one convincing him to join us but it was all percentage of their program to snare me. ``

'' And why would they go through such elaborate step ? '' Fred was almost certainly she was telling the trueness so far… Hermione had certainly indicated that Elanya may be in trouble and now the girl was confirming it. He just didn't know why she was telling him all of this, but he may as well use the situation to his vantage and learn as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can construct their own place in this war and that if they have the good variety of mass on their position they'll be able to charter on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her head angrily. `` I was appalled to learn that Voldemort's mind to collect a psychic army was actually Elise's brainchild. It was how she got him to facilitate her find Sarah. But they planned to build allies of the multitude he gathered, to get them to work towards taking over completely. ``

'' So that's how they learned about Luna ? ``

She nodded. `` And Harry Potter too. At first Elise and Sarah didn't care who lived or died in battle while they quietly plotted their own rebellion. But when Harry started showing his potential and they learned Luna Lovegood was a seer, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your shop in Diagon Alley during the summer. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely matter to. He'd been wondering for a farseeing clip the genuine cause Elise had targeted his store. `` What do you have in mind ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a look of compunction settled over her. `` Voldemort had a seer named Jasper, he was old and not as secure as Luna seems to be. But that didn't matter to Elise, he was all she had and so she'd already convinced him to establish his ultimate loyalty to her over Voldemort. He told her that he'd had a vision that something was going to bring Harry to Diagon bowling alley alone and that Voldemort was going to make his move against the boy. She worried about the issue as she wanted Harry on her side, working with Sarah specifically since they parcel the Saami power… of course, she'd only just found Sarah at that clock time. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your workshop of fire, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be various Aurors in the area. After all, the minister would be sure as shooting to reply in replete power to a report of arson at his son's fund. ``

He took a steadying breath, trying to reckon on the bright side as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon Alley alone that day to face Voldemort, his Death Eaters and the Dementors, there's no way he could sustain survived. At least Elise's destruction had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd much rather have his shop ruined than his friend dead. After all, they'd already rebuilt the shop… there wasn't another Harry Potter laying around. `` I remember reading in the paper that Jasper died rather mysteriously. '' He said at last. Of course he hadn't read anything about it, but he recalled Hermione telling him about it during one of their secret conversations.

'' There was null occult about it. Jasper made the Saame mistake I did by thinking he was an equal in their plan. I guess he was scared enough to desire to tell mortal about his vision, but he chose the wrong hoi polloi. He saw his own death though not the hand that brought it to him, and then he saw your supporter up at Hogwarts using that silly ring to try and contact him from beyond for information. He thought it was Voldemort that was going to end his life so he went to Elise who saw her chance. Sarah may not have a verge, but she has mastered many other skills, first and foremost her astral projection. They decided to pop him so that she could conflate with his cognisance and send herself in his lieu when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must feature seen something and stopped her friends from using the gang. It only made them desire her on their side of meat more, especially since they'd so hastily gotten rid of Jasper. ``

Fred's mind was reeling. So many things were coming together now, it was insufferable that she wasn't telling him the true statement. But his instincts were screaming at him that something deeper was going on. `` Why are you telling me all of this ? ``

'' I don't really acknowledge. '' She smiled, crossing her arms and leaning forward. `` I guess I'm tired of you thinking badly of me. I've never gone so long being so thoroughly ignored. Maybe I figured that if you saw that I was as lots a victim of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd treat me beneficial while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a victim. '' He stated firmly, once more define to prevent himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the best way to perpetrate of a lie was by mixing in the truth… It was clearly a skill she had mastered.

Elanya looked away, but even in profile he could see a intermixture of shame, regret and anger settle over her lineament. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

He couldn't help himself, he had to bang. `` If you were so intent on killing your father, then why didn't you do it yourself, without involving them ? ``

'' You think I haven't tried before ? ! '' She yelled as she leapt to her substructure and began pacing in excitement. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the lonesome one who wanted him dead and he made sure that it was nearly impossible to get to him. I was scared to use my true identity as his girl to achieve out to him… I knew that my female parent had sent me away and died trying to protect me because he wanted to use me, to paw me over to Voldemort in a never-ending seeking to gain favour from a man who favored no one. I didn't want her to die in vain but it soon became clear that my literal name was going to be the only thing to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed somebody inviolable backup me up in case something went wrong. ``

'' And that's what Elise and Sarah promised you. '' He said quietly, watching her grow more bowl over as her story went on.

'' It was only after the deed was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become overjealous of the care Voldemort was giving the young lady and so he was doing his best to countermine them. They figured there was too upright a probability he'd figure out some part of what they were up to and so they knew he needed to go. They must ingest tracked me down, found me in Australia… my grandmother had just died and I'd just gone back there to spend her last few days with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the hazard to do the matter I'd been wanting for years. ``

Fred had been careful during the whole conversation, wanting to pick up on any signs of knavery. For the maiden time he found one… her voice had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her gathering agitation as she recalled these event, but he had the nagging touch that things hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it matter how she and Elise came to unite strength ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these interrogative and expect any variety of answer. His alone hope was to go on and hope he could piece it all together himself. `` Do you regret killing your beginner ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to attend him straight in the eye. `` Not for a single second. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more affected role and found a way to do it by myself. When I tried to back out of this whole thing, when I told them I didn't want to be a component of kidnapping you… Elise made it very clear that despite the false evidence I left at the shot, she could very easily tie me to my father's death. I have no doubt that she would send me to Azkaban without a 2d thought process. So I had to take, a jail cell locked away with the titan or stranded on an island with you. I took the unspoiled go punishment. ``

'' But if you hadn't killed Edmund, you never would let had to take a crap that option. '' He argued.

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could have found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The important matter to note here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or person else, you would take always wound up on this island. '' She seemed frustrated. Clearly this wasn't going the way she wanted, he wasn't giving her the reaction she'd expected…

But then he wasn't going to allow himself to be like all the other people she'd been able to wrap up around her finger, he'd always been determined to be potent than that from the first moment she'd walked into his shop. `` You're probably right… We'll never know though will we ? ``

'' Do you hate me ? '' She asked quietly, taking him by surprise.

'' I thought I was the one who got to ask the questions. '' He said with a neural laugh.

Elanya smiled. It was a slow coyly positive smile as she reveled in the fact that she'd finally unsettled him. `` And I've answered them all. Can't you respond just one for me ? ``

'' That wasn't function of the deal. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to tip on the edge of the table in figurehead of him. `` You know, there's only two reasons you won't answer. Either you do detest me but you're too much of a gentleman's gentleman to say it… though we both know that you're More than willing to enjoin anyone exactly how you feel about them. So the only other explanation is that you've realized you don't hate me and just can't bring yourself to allow in it for some mysterious reason. ``

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms as he regarded her with false assurance. `` Or I've simply decided it's best not to go through life hating anyone. Of course, I could always stool an exception if you'd care to push the issue. ``

'' Has anyone ever told you that you're completely frustrating ? '' She asked with a tight smile.

'' Many time over. '' He grinned easily, once more enjoying that he'd managed to mess up her feathering by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a walk. '' She announced, standing up and taking a deep breathing space. `` I cooked, you can clean. '' She added before leaving the tent.

Fred looked around feeling completely off guard. She'd never left him alone in the tent before, which had only led him to believe that she had things to hide from him here. But clearly her frustration with his lack of gullibility had caused an supervising on her behalf and he knew he needed to contract advantage of it. He raced to her room, pulling back the flap that separated the distance from the rest of the tent and taking a cursory looking around before carefully proceeding to go through everything. Ensuring he returned things to the way he'd found them, he went through all of her stuff hoping to come across a communication twist of some kind… or even better, his verge. After a long and thorough search, he came up with neither.

( BREAK )

Harry stared at St. Simon, trying to determine exactly what he thought of the other boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extremes the guy had gone through in order to deliver a wide-eyed conversation. But then, had Herbert A. Simon been right ? Would they have listened had he simply approached them and asked to talk ? He shook himself out of his intellection, refusing to let his anger and confusion make him do anything stupid. `` How do we get it on that having you tell us all of this isn't theatrical role of the architectural plan ? '' He asked. After all, if Elise had gone through so a good deal, then why wouldn't she go even a footmark further and get off in the merry andrew ? Surely she didn't expect them to take Simon seriously even if they did make love he thought he was telling the truth… or at to the lowest degree the accuracy as she wanted him to lie with it.

He sighed and shook his head. `` I had a feeling you'd ask me that. All I can say is that I only know what I've seen and heard. She certainly hasn't told me to come to you and I doubt she realizes I know that she wants to kill me. But has she somehow directed things so that I would get along talk to you, I just don't know… anything is possible with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's whole plan is to gather as many psychics as she can and then fight both face of the war, hoping to come up out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far more control over herself than Harry could manage. But he tried to remain calm, to remember that they needed to know what they were up against… she still had her hand on his arm, trying in vain to assist him be successful in relaxing though he could feel her uneasiness at what she was hearing.

'' It's part of her design. '' Simon seemed a bit changeable for the outset time since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be able-bodied to at least stop her doing me in. And yes, I really believe she'd murder me if it helped her cause… She ensured they got rid of Jasper simply because she wanted you Luna, she knows you're a best seer than that old man ever was, you've already helped thwart hers and Sarah's plans a few prison term. She was trying to aid Voldemort gaining control you, though she had no intentions of handing you over… she wants to convince you and Harry both to fall in her. '' Again he looked directly at Jacey. `` And if she knew you were a firestarter like her, she'd lack you too. ``

'' I am not anything like your miserable sister. '' Jacey said defensively as she cupped her hands together and began rolling them until she had developed a sizable fireball between them. She lifted it over her straits and brought it down, engulfing her total body in flame as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more sinewy. '' She laughed, extinguishing herself and leaving no indication that anything out of the ordinary had just transpired.

Simon swallowed hard as he stared at her in disbelief… clearly he'd never seen his baby do something like that before. `` practiced. '' He said at last. `` Someone should be. They already knew Harry was stronger than Sarah, that's why they had to urinate sure he lost his mogul before they tried to blab out to him. ``

'' You're talking about what happened at Azkaban ? How could they possibly know that they weren't going to kill me with that Psychohemia potion ? '' Harry asked in aggravation. They all knew Simon was telling them the truth, but he just didn't like what he was hearing anymore now that it was going against what he knew had happened. But then, he was quickly learning from the other boy that there batch of things he didn't know about the things that had been happening to him, his ally and his foeman. Elise had apparently been pulling various different strings for quite awhile.

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to puzzle out for them long before then. '' Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some decisiveness was going to precede you to the prison and right in front end of Cho, but it was Elise who made the darkness God Almighty think it was his idea to use Sarah's endowment to try and occupy you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to down you, that you were going to get help in clock time to save your aliveness but not your superpower. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly belt down us at my aunt and uncle's house. '' Harry replied, hiding the apparition pain he felt in his bridge player and leg where he'd been stabbed all those months ago. Glancing at Luna out of the corner of his eye, he remembered her fount covered in rakehell after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to keep Sarah from killing him. `` She didn't seem too concerned with convincing us to join her then. '' He added angrily as everything from that nighttime came back to him including Ron nearly being burnt to a crisp.

'' Yeah well, as I'm sure you've noticed, the solitary trouble Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the woman is Thomas More than a little unbalanced. She was only supposed to torture you, it was your muggle family she was supposed to kill in front of you… on Voldemort's guild, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those masses she was forced to endure with growing up and she came to resent you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as faint than her and so she alone decided in that moment that she didn't want you to conjoin them. At least, that's how she explained it to Elise after they broke her out of the hospital and woke her from the coma. Trust me, Elise let her have it for deviating from the plan and nearly killing you both. Anyway, Sarah said she really lost control when Luna came in with the ring… she wanted it and they all knew Voldemort wanted it and so obtaining the halo became her main priority above all else, including her guard as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to get her for a short-circuit prison term as well as get your power back, she no longer thinks you're light. ``

'' I'm flattered. '' Harry said sarcastically.

'' Does she know that we went into her remembering while she was unconscious ? '' Luna asked, squeezing his arm as concern overwhelmed her.

But Simon stared back at her in surprise, allowing them to instantly decompress. `` No, not that I'm aware of. I certainly had no idea you'd done that… what did you see ? ``

'' Do not worry about that, we will be the ones to ask the interrogative. '' Jacey said with authority.

'' What about Cho ? Where does she fit into all of this ? '' Harry picked up where they'd just left off, thinking that what they had seen in Sarah's head at to the lowest degree confirmed that the girl were working together behind Voldemort's back.

He sighed and nodded. `` Well, she's plotting with Sarah only. But whatever plan those two had going, it was in seat foresighted before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to talk Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the girl would be valuable again once they broke her out of Azkaban. My guess is that if they manage to get Cho out, Elise will find the opportunity to get rid of her as soon as possible. Just because she and Sarah are close down confidant doesn't mean they wouldn't betray each other in a secondly if it meant furthering their own schedule. loyalty means zilch to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the patch holding him in place. `` Will you let me go now ? Please ? '' He pleaded.

We have to get back anyway… Dumbledore is looking for us and I think we're in a lot of worry. Luna said. Harry turned to search at her and realized she had that far off locution that meant she wasn't completely present in the room.

'' Fine. '' He waved his scepter and released the other boy from the binding.

Simon Zelotes leapt to his feet to quickly stretch before eagerly reaching into his sack and pulling out his flaskful from which he took a tenacious swig. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his mouth with his sleeve. After another draft he seemed less shaky and nervous.

'' We have to get back to the school, are you going to be okay ? '' Harry asked Jacey.

'' I will be just o.k.. '' She assured him with an well-to-do smile.

'' What are you going to assure them about me ? '' Simon asked, suddenly scared again. `` I never intended it to work out this way ! I was going to unlock the door, I didn't mean for you to actually damage the schoolhouse ! ``

'' Yeah, this is all my fault. '' Harry rolled his centre. `` Just keep your mouth shut when we get back there and let me do all the talking. '' He reached out and roughly grabbed the boy's arm before apparating back to Hogwarts with Luna a few moments behind them. They were sure to make it behind Hagrid's hut where the chances of being seen were very slim.

Silently, they all three made their way up to the castle, running into Hermione in the court. `` Where have you been ? And what are you doing with him ? '' She demanded, eyeing Marvin Neil Simon suspiciously.

'' It's a long story, Mione. '' Harry sighed. `` We'll tell you after we deal with Dumbledore. ``

She nodded and led the way through the mansion to the schoolmaster's agency. `` Just so you're cognisant, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you left schooling grounds. '' She warned them. Sharing a look with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the stack of a practiced student would break the old wizard's temper. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in Miss Granger and then you are dismissed. '' He replied from behind his desk. Hermione let them walk past her before she closed the room access and bolted down the steps. Dumbledore gestured to the three chairs in nominal head of him and waited until they settled themselves. He looked at all of them, but it was elucidate he was addressing Harry alone. `` What did you opine you were doing damaging the schooling like that ? ``

'' It was an accident. '' He quietly answered.

'' I have no question that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his phonation quiver as he tried to shroud his anger. `` Why would you do this Harry, when you're so close to being done here ? This isn't something I can cover up for you. ``

'' So don't. I'll go fix it. ``

He shook his head. `` It's not that round-eyed. Like the ministry and certain other edifice, magic isn't enough to repair the impairment. It must be rebuilt by hand to maintain the strength of the charms we place upon our school. And even if you did fix it, my hands are tied in regards to how we can cover this, especially after I've pushed so difficult to have the recently disappeared Tristan Macnair expelled. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' Luna asked nervously.

He sighed sadly. `` I'm saying that after having young lady Patil, Mr. Mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the destruction Cho Chang caused live on year, and after all the cumulative trouble that has been caused… I have no choice but to exhaust you all from Hogwarts for your unfavourable action mechanism, effective immediately. ``

'' You can't ! '' Harry protested.

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in severe damage to one of our classrooms and then you all left school grounds in direct violation of the code of conduct. I have to take on this action before the less reliable of the Aurors out there decide to try and say that you had something to do with Tristan's escape and attempt to submit you all into hands for questioning. Should that happen, it's not guaranteed that Chester A. Arthur will be able to see that you get into the decent men. '' Dumbledore seemed to decline down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a stringent property and we must be heedful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to find a way to prevent us here ? The Aurors and anyone else could still occur after us once we leave, but if we're here then we're more protected. '' Luna argued.

'' I agree, but if I didn't go through with this, it would be far too well-heeled for them to impeach me of favoritism and things are too delicate right now. The slightest matter could apply them the self-justification to throw out me from here and put anyone they choose in place as schoolmaster. As you saw endure time, there are too many impressionable young nous here to allow that to happen. I refuse to let this school become a preparation footing for the side by side wave of Death feeder. Everyone must be relinquish to choose the spirit they want. ``

'' So instead you just throw away away our futures ? '' Simon asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the Order and therefore unable to encompass the pauperism to restrain things a certain way so that the exponent didn't shift in the enemy's favor.

Suddenly the office threshold swung capable behind them and lupin came rushing in. `` period ! It's not their shift, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really carry anyone to believe that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it count as long as there's somebody to blame ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… separate them that the kid were working on a project for me and things went wrong. They left the school to come looking for me because they knew that I had snuck out to see Tonks and didn't want me to get in trouble. That narration should be soundly enough. ``

'' You realize what will pass off if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low threshold of allowance for you. If you take the blame for the wipeout to the classroom, if you insist these bookman only left school to cover up for you… then I'll have no alternative but to force out your employment here. ``

'' No ! '' Harry protested, leaping to his feet.

lupin reached out to catch his articulatio humeri, using his considerable posture to pull Harry back into his chair. `` I understand the consequences. I accept it. ``

Why are you doing this to yourself ? Harry asked pleadingly.

Because, I feel I owe it to James IV and Lily to do everything in my top executive to make you finish schooling. I can't just let you bonk it up with two hebdomad to go. He answered with a smile. It'll be okay, Harry. I promise.

He held his breathing time and glanced at Luna and Paul Simon out of the quoin of his eye and realized lupine wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their 6th twelvemonth and he felt shamefaced that his cheeky actions may cause them to miss out on their education. Letting out the breath slowly, he turned to look at the Old adept, awaiting his decision along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his prison term studying Lupin before at utmost shaking his psyche and rising from his keister. `` Okay, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are able to terminate out the final exam two hebdomad of this semester, as it will be unacceptable to supplant you on such abruptly bill. It's been a delight to own you here. ``

'' It's been wonderful being here. '' Lupin assured him before quickly ushering the teenager from the office before the schoolmaster could change his mind. Simon tried to break off from the group as soon as they were in the hallway but Harry reached out and grabbed his arm, ensuring he followed them. He still had a few affair to say to the other boy. They walked silently down to lupin's office staff, though the sure-enough man was the merely one who seemed to be in a good mood.

'' Are you sure about this ? '' Harry asked as soon as Lupin closed the door.

'' Of course I'm for certain. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it. '' He grinned. `` I had planned on resigning at the end of this yr anyway. I really like education, but I'm certainly needed elsewhere and like you Harry, I hate feeling locked away here when there are so many things happening out in the world. And with you and Draco leaving, there's really nothing to hold open me here any longer. Plus I don't like being away from Tonks for so long, her job already keeps us apart so why should I continue to let mine add to the strain when I have another alternative ? So you see, I'm entirely positive that this is the correct thing to do. ``

'' But you won't exactly be leaving here on the near of terms if you take the inculpation for this. '' Luna argued.

lupine reached out to reassuringly pat her shoulder. `` I have long ago learned to know with other people's misguided opinions of me. As long as I am in secure standing with the people who know me, that's all that matters. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a roll of blank parchment and a impertinent quill. `` Besides if I were to stay here, then who would be out there looking after you all when you get yourselves stuck in a corner ? '' He teased, reminding them that this wasn't the first time he'd helped get them out of their own mess. `` Plus Draco is going to need guidance in navigating life out in the actual world where people don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to have a cause to leave behind my lieu early. The fact that it helps you kids out is just a bonus. ``

'' Well I certainly appreciate it. '' Herb Simon said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go in any case Hogwarts so I'm gladiolus I get to come back. '' He added quickly when he saw the blaze Harry had shot him for speaking at all.

lupin nodded and smiled. `` Think zippo of it. ``

'' It just seems unfair that we can't simply explain what really happened. '' Luna said absently as wrapped her arms around herself.

'' What happened to you ? '' Lupin asked, finally noticing the patch that peeked out from the sleeve of her school robes.

She and Harry shared a glance as Herb Simon looked down at the storey and shuffled his feet. `` Just a slight fortuity caused by a bare misunderstanding. '' She said at last, lowering her arms and pulling the ahem of her sleeves down.

'' I see. '' He shook his head and sighed. `` To resolve your before musing… no one would hear if you tried to explain what really happened. It's a sport for magnate out there and no one is interested in the Sojourner Truth unless it gets them what they want. Too many affair have been happening here, no one would take a bookman's countersign on anything when they barely trust what the prof and Dumbledore have to say. ``

'' Especially if one of the students is me, right ? '' Harry asked miserably.

'' It's a sad but true fact that adding your name to anything will instantly make it more complicate. But don't let it bother you, having enemies only means that you've stood up for something important. '' Lupin answered with a gentle smile. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must write to my married woman and inform her that we are soon to get a one income house for awhile. ``

'' You know that you and Tonks always have your way at my house. '' Harry offered, feeling it was the least he could do.

'' And we may just have to take you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The Price of rip is ridiculous these daylight. ``

Leaving him to write his letter, the teens all stepped out into the hall. As soon as the room access closed behind them, Harry grabbed Simon Zelotes up by the front of his gown and shoved him back against the rampart. `` If I find out that you're somehow setting us up I swear to you that your Sister won't have the chance to murder you because she'll never find your physical structure. '' He threatened, wanting to scare the boy into revealing whether he was truly trustworthy.

'' I promise I'm not setting you up ! '' He instantly replied, his optic all-embracing and his marrow banging wildly in his chest.

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his fount in close to Herb Simon's, tightening his grip and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to narrate somebody, come heterosexual to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my other admirer would certainly be the enceinte mistake you'll ever make in your life. ``

Neil Simon nodded in agreement, clearly seeing in Harry's eyes just how much he meant his threats. `` I'll do right to you ! '' He gasped out, reaching up to try and labor Harry away.

He released the other boy and simply turned and walked away, knowing Luna was following him and feeling her disapproval. He waited until they were all the way back to his room before speaking to her. `` I'm not sorry about how I dealt with him. ``

She looked at him a moment before nodding slowly. `` OK. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you're mad at me… '' He began pacing, feeling all of the DOE and adrenaline he'd been building up since she'd first called out to him commence to belch over as it tried to find some way to escape.

'' Of course I'm not mad… I'm not sure what I am. This has been a very unknown day and I'm still trying to treat it. '' Luna argued, sitting comfortably on the border of the bed as she watched him walk around the room, allowing him to get out some of his pent up frustration.

Harry went to the window and clutched the sill as he stared out over the school ground. He took various deep intimation before turning back to her. `` But you really are okay, right ? ``

'' I'm fine, just a bit troubled by what we've learned. '' She gently assured him. `` I guess it's even more important that we go get Fred before Elanya has the luck to convince him that her version of events is the truth. ``

'' Couldn't it be ? '' He debated. `` I mean, I know Herbert A. Simon was telling us his interpretation of the truth and I believe Elise and Sarah are that cunning. But what if their whole programme was tricking him into telling us all of this so we wouldn't believe what Elanya had to say ? What if they really are setting her up and what we saw in Erebos's forefront is true ? Maybe they did know we'd design out who the spy was and that we'd want to look in his head… what if they used Simon to spread around doubt so that we wouldn't know what to conceive ? ``

'' Well, if that's the suit then it seems to take in worked, at to the lowest degree on you. '' She pointed out, smiling as he stared at her in utter confusion. `` Personally, I think I believe him even though there's something about him that unsettles me… but despite that, I truly think Elanya is very a good deal working with Elise and Sarah. ``

Harry nodded in hesitant adoption. He'd learned his lesson about questioning her intuition, if she thought Elanya wasn't the victim they were trying to present her to be then that was most probable the way it was. `` O.K., so we go on with the supposal that she's against us. ``

'' I think that's the safest for us… to assume she and Simon both are the enemy until they can definitively prove otherwise. '' She stood and came over to wind her arms around his shank and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her head and returned the embrace. `` I have no problem with that. ``

She pulled away and looked at the door. `` Hermione knows we're done with Dumbledore, she's on her way over here. ``

Sure enough an insistent knocking came at the threshold and Harry went to let her in. `` So ? What happened ? '' She demanded, walking in and turning to face them both. Together they pieced together everything that had happened and filled her in completely on what Simon the Zealot had told them and what they'd concluded as a resultant. `` You're sure as shooting Elanya isn't being set up ? '' She asked, her grimace going white as she began to panic.

'' Almost completely plus, what's wrong ? '' Luna went over to top Hermione to a chair.

'' It's just that… I so badly wanted to see Fred, to make up sure he was okay. I decided to recitation my stellar projection and to my surprise, not only did it work, he was capable to see me. '' She answered, nearly shaking as she tried not to cry.

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him know we were coming to get him ? '' Harry asked, kneeling next to her and taking her hand in comfort.

'' Yes, but I also told him everything else ! I wanted to ensure him that we'd taken upkeep of everything so he could get out without worrying… including that we knew who the spy was ! I told him that you guys found out that Elanya was a victim of Elise and Sarah's plots too… he thinks she isn't the enemy ! ``

'' It'll be fine, Hermione. '' Luna said softly. `` We're going to get him tomorrow. ``

'' No ! '' Hermione leapt to her feet and turned to them in anguish. `` She's making him spill to her now ! He'd been refusing this altogether time but I saw her jeopardize to beam Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't outset speechmaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to believe that she was just another cat's-paw in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his guard down ? What if she's able-bodied to convince him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in horror as every conditional relation of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her headland. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( BREAK )

As soon as it was dark, Fred grabbed his entire bed roll and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the tide, he set everything up and progress a humble firing, silently thanking his father for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a wand. Sure it was the more unmanageable way to do things, but at last his father's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all things muggle had paid off. Once for sure the hell had caught, he lay back to look at the stars. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her walk and the longer she was gone the more sealed he was that he didn't want to be there when she did show up.

She'd told him so many thing and enough of it had seemed not only to be likely but made too lots horse sense not to be straight. He was confused… If Hermione had really been on the island, then she'd told him thing that Elanya had completely admitted to. Did it count ? And if it did, then why did it matter ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no guiltless bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to kill her Church Father, the former girls wouldn't have had anything to charm her into accepting their offer. On the other hand, he was now able to put himself in her shoes… why wouldn't she want to shoot down the man who murdered her mother and was trying to use his own girl to buy his way into the good graces of an evil man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to price with the fact that his niece had killed his brother and was still will to reach out to the girl as it was clear even to him that she needed to be rescued… if not from Elise and Sarah, then from herself. So if Willem could forgive her, then who was he to judge her ?

Clearly he didn't think as badly of her as he'd thought anyway… why else wouldn't he make just told her hated her ? It was the one matter that bothered him more than anything else. She'd been right in saying that he had no problem telling people that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the lone reason… because he didn't hatred her. But so what ? Not hating mortal wasn't exactly the same as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't trust her as far as he could bewilder her, but then, did that matter either ?

'' So, you've decided to log Z's under the stars. ``

He sat up and whipped around to find Elanya standing in the trees as if his thoughts of her had forced her to materialize there. Her hair and apparel were dancing softly in the slight snap and her middle glowed even more brilliantly in the swoon firelight. `` well, aren't you the observant one. '' He said sarcastically.

'' I'm sorry I walked out on you early. '' She said, taking a few hesitant steps towards him.

'' Think nothing of it. I'm pretty indisputable our conversation was about done anyway. '' He brushed her off and lay back down again, closing his eyes and acting as if she were nothing more than a pesky ruffle to him.

'' It's so beautiful out here… and so relaxing. You have the right idea sleeping here on the beach. Mind if I join you ? '' She called, her voice carrying her amusement.

'' eternal sleep wherever you want, what do I care ? '' Fred made sure to sound annoyed, hoping that if she did kip on the beach, she would choose to do it far from him. He heard her soft footstep as she glided through the guts and then felt her attempt to climb under the cover song with him. He sat straight up and scrambled away from her as he got to his understructure. `` What the pit do you guess you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

'' Well, my blankets are all the way back at the campsite and I'm tired now. '' She looked up at him with a coy smile.

'' Fine, drive my stuff, it's all yours. I want to go for a swim anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the H2O, repeating Hermione's gens over and over in his head lest he allow himself to go back and do something stupid.

'' You can't go out there now ! '' Elanya called as she ran after him. `` It's dark ! There could be sharks or any number of other dangerous things and you'd never see them coming ! ``

Despite the literal business concern for his prophylactic that he heard in her vox, he ignored her and walked straight into the piddle fully dressed. He continued on until his feet could just barely touch on the seat before deciding that was far enough to discourage her from following him. turn, he began swimming analog with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't care to walk after him. He could barely see his hand in battlefront of him and realized that is was more than the employment that was making his heart slipstream. It was very non-white out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an underwater fire coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards land, crawling up onto the sandy beach and allowing himself to lie there and roost for a moment.

Now more than ever, he was determined to leave the island tomorrow. He couldn't expend one more day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to forget what was real number and it was becoming more difficult not to shine into her stories. All he had to do was get through tonight. Climbing to his feet, he brushed off as much sand as he could and made his way into the trees to look for some kind of shelter. Coming to the al-Qaida of the tallest spate, he found a shallow cave. Gathering leaves, he quickly made himself a place to sleep before gathering enough Mrs. Henry Wood to start up a fire to keep him warm. Once again he silently thanked his father while hoping that he would get the hazard to thank him in person very soon.

( BREAK )

genus Draco woke already feeling nervous… he didn't like lying to Ginny and while he may not know the exact details of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to get laid that she'd be mad to learn they'd kept Fred's possibly being in bother from her. But today was supposed to be the day it would all end and no one would have to lie anymore… at least not about this. It was simple really, while the professor and well-nigh of the scholar were down at the quidditch pitch enjoying the game between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, ceramist, Luna and Granger were going to whisk themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever raft he'd gotten himself into. Draco's job was to make sure neither Ginny nor Ron found out they were gone and more importantly, to sustain them both away from Professor Erebos who Potter had said was a spy and more than will to offend someone.

Taking a deep breathing space, he knocked on Ginny's door. `` ready to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her gown and pajama, he realized she hadn't done much since she'd left his elbow room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in reaction to the dumb look she gave him, closing the threshold as he walked in.

'' I don't want to go watch that stupid game today. '' She said, climbing onto the bed and grabbing her pillow to seize to her dead body. `` I don't want to be a part of anything to do with Ron at the mo. ``

'' I guess I can understand that. '' He said slowly.

'' It's been almost a week ! '' She was clearly frustrated and had her pillow been Ron's cervix, she'd have already squeezed the sprightliness out of him. `` I just can't believe he hasn't come around to apologize to everyone for what he said. ``

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering tone she shot him, he quickly went on in Hope of fixing his fault. `` I mean, he clearly wanted blank and said the things he knew would drive you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for potter close year. So why would he follow apologize unless he's ready to be around you all again ? ``

'' well, thank you therapist Draco, the psychological science Boy Wonder ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so much, I'll only charge you half my formula rates for the fantabulous Wisdom of Solomon I have to bestow. '' He teased, quickly moving to get the pillow she whipped at him.

'' Well from now on you can hold on your two galleons to yourself because your wisdom isn't even Worth one-half that ! '' She taunted back, laughing as he ran over to pass the pillow assault. She scrambled to catch her other pillow and swung low, catching him in the stomach.

'' Oh ! Direct hit ! '' He shouted and fell across the bed.

'' Go in for the kill ! '' She laughed, quickly kneeling over him and battering him over and over with the pillow. Unable to hold back his own laughter, he tried his undecomposed to yield the fire. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to wriggle it away from her so that he would be in possession of all the plush ammo.

A knock on the door interrupted their fight and they both looked at each former in surprise as they tried to catch their breath. Ginny lay back on the bed and stared up at him with a coy smile. `` See who that is, would you darling ? I'm not dressed to incur troupe. ``

He leaned down to kiss her before quickly swinging his pillow one last metre, jumping off the bed with a wicked grinning as he avoided her return violation. He opened the room access and instantly tensed having already been warned that the mortal on the other side was interested in harming Ginny. `` Can we aid you professor ? '' He asked, closing the door slightly so that the man couldn't see inside.

'' Isn't it a bit incompatible for Miss Weasley to sustain a manful visitor this too soon ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit unfitting for a Male teacher to come unsupervised to a distaff bookman's room this early ? Especially one who already has a cloud of hunch around his epithet ? '' He shot back, having been informed of the professor's human relationship to Elise McKinney.

'' I've come with a message from the Headmaster. '' Erebos answered defensively. `` Not that I owe an explanation to any scholar. ``

'' Well, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her room all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking caution of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a small growling to turn tail his throat lest the man block what exactly he was. `` You can give me the message, I'll be sure she gets it. '' With his senses heightened, he was able to find out rustling behind him as Ginny got out of bed and curiously made her way over to the door. Thankfully she was deliberate enough to keep herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective upsurge rushed through him and he knew only one thing, the only way the professor was getting in the way was over his absolutely body.

'' The Headmaster wishing to speak to Miss Weasley in individual. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to see her up to his power. ``

'' And why wouldn't he station Professor McGonagall ? '' Dragon asked suspiciously. `` She is the head teacher of the Gryffindor sign and a much more in all probability nominee to border on Ginny on the schoolmaster's behalf than some professor wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your course of study. Why would Dumbledore air you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the professor as she'd rather chew her own arm off than study Arithmancy.

'' Again, not that I owe an explanation to a student- '' He said tightly, clearly frustrated with this Song dynasty and dance they were engaged in. `` But she is already down at the quidditch pitch assisting Madame Hooch with getting the field ready for today's secret plan. I was in the master's post for a confluence and so he simply sent me. ``

'' wellspring, Ginny is just too ill to leave her elbow room. I'm sure Dumbledore wouldn't want to put on the line her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these drafty hallways. If he needs to secernate her something crucial, I'm sure he would consume no problem paying her a visit. '' Draco said smugly. He grabbed the edge of the door to conclude it but the prof reached out to stop it from swinging shut.

'' If Miss Weasley is in fact that ill, then perhaps she should go see Madame Pomfrey. '' Erebos suggested slyly. `` I know that if I go and tell her there is a nauseous student she will importune on seeing her. ``

'' That's unneeded. '' Draco said calmly while holding the door so tightly in his hired man he thought the wood would shatter in his grip. `` I asked therapist Drake to blockade by earlier. He said it's a bad cold and recommended bed sleep. '' He added in order to baffle the professor's novel attempt to get Ginny out of her room. He was sure Francis Drake would hide for them if necessary, after all, he'd done it many times before. kinda than leave Erebos to come up with something else, he used his above normal intensity level to slam the door shut despite the man's endeavor to hold back it open.

'' What was that about ? '' Ginny asked immediately.

Draco quickly pulled his wand out of his pocket and cast a silencing charm on the room, both as a caution and to try and stall before answering her. `` prof Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to pop with Lunaria annua and go with it until he couldn't. `` They want him to get to you and Ron. ``

'' Why ? '' She asked, sinking down onto her bed in horror and confusion.

'' Well… because they have program to take over the ministry. What better way than to use the Minister's tike against him ? '' He held his breathing time. Technically what he'd said was truthful although that wasn't the cause the man had decided to get to a relocation today. But why worry her further by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the wide story or what exactly her blood brother was involved in, only that Erebos was one of the promiscuous ends the others had had to tie up in Holy Order to go after Fred at all. He knew they were connected, just not how… but he'd be damned if he let her get hurt or killed because of any of it. Surely if she knew Fred was involved, she would insist on doing something dangerously reckless in an attempt to help.

Ginny shook her oral sex sadly. `` Poor dad… all he wants to do is draw a deviation and now he has to populate in invariant fright for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the Same could be said for everyone. '' He sat next to her and wrapped his arm around her berm. `` I've supposition that's just the monetary value you have to pay if you want to support up for something… the fear of losing everything. ``

We may have a problem. Draco thought out to Potter and Luna.

What happened ? ceramist immediately answered.

Dragon quickly told them of Erebos's visit and the fact that he wouldn't be leaving Ginny's elbow room at all that day. You're going to want someone else down at the pitch looking after Weasley. He concluded definitively, implying that there would be no arguing with his conclusion to barricade himself in with Ginny.

( BREAK )

Harry had a horrible intuitive feeling about everything after talking to genus Draco. Why would Erebos let come to try and get Ginny to go somewhere with him ? What were Elise, Elanya and Sarah planning now ? Whatever it was, it seemed they were just in meter to go delivery Fred. At least the problem of who was going to look out over Ron had been quickly resolved… after a quick call option to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibility cloak and hang around the quidditch sales talk, just in case Erebos tried to get a hold of a different Weasley.

'' I heard the whistle. The game's started, can we go now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly. She was nearly beside herself with worry and had been since discovering that she'd given Fred misinformation. She'd attempted to visualize herself back to the island several times during the night but hadn't been capable to find him again.

'' Both of you grab one of those broom. '' Harry told her and Luna as he tightly gripped his own Firebolt. They had gone down to the pitching with everyone else only to snarf off into the equipment shed to keep from being seen.

'' Why ? '' Hermione demanded impatiently.

'' Because Charlie wrote a Word all about how there are flying dragons on the island. I can't fit you both on my heather and we need to have some way of escaping quickly if necessary… especially since you said you've read that there are anti-apparation magic spell. You and Fred won't be capable to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the whole fourth dimension that both little girl would just let him go by himself. But he knew Luna wouldn't allow that any more than he'd let her do anything like this without him… the argument wouldn't be worth it as they'd both just end up angry and she'd lead up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew better than to even intimate she stay behind, despite them all being cognisant of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both capable and tried to let that conceive alleviate his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the mountains, it shouldn't be a trouble. '' She replied, eyeing the old practice broom warily as Luna stepped up to pick out one without wavering. It was obvious which of them was more positive in their ability to fly.

'' Just choose one anyway. '' He pressed with a grin. `` At the very to the lowest degree, Fred will know how to fly it should the indigence arise. ``

'' Fine. '' She agreed with a heavy suspiration, grabbing the one closest to her. `` Can we go now ? ``

Harry took out his wand and waited as they did the Saame. They had no idea where they'd wind up having only coordinates and picture show to use to inspire their apparation to the island. He wanted them to be ready for anything.

As one he and Luna reached out to each take one of Hermione's hands and they all focused on the island. With a flash fling, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling tough rocky ground beneath his metrical unit, Harry hesitantly opened his eyes to expect around. His breath caught in his throat as he took in their environs. Um, I think we may have just picked the regretful possible post to Din Land. He thought out to the young lady, not wanting to urinate any racket lest they wake the ten flying dragon currently sleeping around them. As quietly as possible, they all three mounted their ling, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going slow for their rice beer, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the ground and rising into the air.

Flying away from the tidy sum top and down toward the beach, he looked over his berm to check on the girls. Luna seemed to consume gotten the hang of thing after having been in the air a few metre before. But Hermione, who always chose to hold open her feet on the background if it was an selection, was clearly showing her inexperience. She tried to lower the Calluna vulgaris and suddenly lost dominance, letting out a loud screaming as she suddenly zoomed toward the ground.

'' pull up ! '' He shouted as he raced after her. She tried to do as he instructed but couldn't quite accomplish it and she raised her arms to cover her facial expression as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! Look out ! '' He heard Luna yell. Apparently Hermione's initial scream had aroused more than his fear, it had woken the firedrake. He quickly whipped to the leftfield as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to bust at him. `` They hunt in pairs. '' Charlie's vocalization filled his head word and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the former flying dragon that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to look the sky for her and found her far out over the urine as she tried her better to dodge the four dragon chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to help only to actualise that the former six tartar had chosen to gang up up on him as they perceived him to be the better handbill and therefore the more severe to them. One popped up in strawman of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to catch his bearings… but this clip he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight flying lizard. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any augury of Luna and the two dragon that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the beasts but unfortunately he wasn't quick enough and he felt one's tail assembly belt into the back of his ling followed by the phone of a deep fracture sound. The ling started to come apart in his hands and he did his best to withstand it together as he raced toward the ground. He landed roughly on the beach, shaking off the pain as he picked himself up and ran toward the cover of the trees.

He could hear the beast landing heavily behind him, too large to make their way through the dense woodwind. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to break his evenfall. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shattered remains of another broom though he had no idea whether it was Luna's or Hermione's. He looked around desperately but there was no one there.

( BREAK )

Fred woke to a loud screeching. For a mo he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his foot. Looking around, he remembered making a temporary protection out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another series of ear-splitting shrieks filled the sky and he looked up to see those mysterious brute circling in the vivid good morning sunshine. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the Tree above him, giving him a frighteningly clear vista of what the creature actually was… a very vauntingly dragon with sharp claws, foresightful teeth and encompassing wings tipped with grievous looking horns.

affright gripped him as he stood there frozen, trying to recollect everything Charlie had ever told him about these beast. More than anything, he recalled his sidekick saying that firedrake were animal of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't waste time trying to forecast it out, he had to make sure Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the only early somebody on this island die… he didn't want to be here completely alone with these matter. He raced through the trees back to the campsite, suddenly upset that he'd decided to travel so far from it in the get-go place.

being sure to keep back himself deep under the cover of the trees, he approached their tent and heard Elanya's voice as she argued with person. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her rear to him and completely alone, but he could evidence that she was holding something up to her sassing. `` What do you mean Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one elementary project this morning… well, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to try more, Fred leapt out from the tree he'd been hiding behind. `` What are you doing ? '' He demanded as he stalked up to her.

She turned to him and dropped her paw, showing him they were empty. `` Nothing. '' She said innocently.

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my baby ? '' He tried to hide his panic, reminding himself that whatever was happening at to the lowest degree Draco was doing his region in protecting Ginny from it.

More shrieks filled their air and they both glanced up in panic. Then she stared directly at him, her eye filling with sadness. `` I have no choice, you broke the rules. '' She looked away, closing her optic against her regret.

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the flying dragon now circling dangerously low. `` The but intellect they would leave alone their nest was if person disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were mighty, your acquaintance came after you… but that means you all have broken the ruler and if I don't bring about the punishment for it then I'll be the one to receive it. I like you Fred, but your sib'lives just aren't more important to me than my own. ``

'' Don't do it. '' He insisted, pleading with her to ease up in and be the better person he wasn't quite certainly she could be. `` I'll help protect you from Elise and Sarah, we can all restrain you safe. Just don't let them force you into hurting my brother and baby. ``

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an unsure step toward him. `` You'd convince your acquaintance to give me a chance ? ``

'' No ! That's part of her plan ! ``

They both whipped around to see who had snuck up on them. Fred couldn't believe his eyes as his inwardness raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more real than the stopping point sentence he'd seen her as she had her baton out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his backup man, he raced forward and threw his arms around her.

'' We have to find out Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted. `` I was wrong yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make us want to aid her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to conjoin them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, reminding Fred that she was actually still there. She now had her wand out as well and was pointing it directly at them.

'' What does it matter if it's true ? '' He returned, placing himself between her and Hermione despite the fact that he was the simply one unarmed.

'' Well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically trust her over me ? '' Elanya asked with false sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a cause not to at the moment. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the scepter she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione reach out and take his helping hand as she used her other to preserve wielding her own scepter. Squeezing her fingers, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a disgustful grinning spreading slowly across her face. `` I thought as much… I guess it's time to prompt to architectural plan B. '' She quickly waved her scepter, forcing Hermione to throw up a shield around them. It was enough of a beguilement for her to grab the seashell necklace she'd been wearing since they arrived and rip it from her neck before speaking quickly into it. `` William Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and pop Ron. '' She instructed.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying away. He landed hard on his back but barely felt anything as he forced himself to get up. `` contract it back ! '' He demanded.

'' Why should I ? You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean value we can't get to the other. Your brother will die. ``

'' birdsong Erebos and assure him to will Ron alone ! '' Hermione ordered, pointing her verge threateningly.

Elanya simply dropped the necklace to the reason and stomped on it, effectively destroying the communicating device. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, come and take it. '' She dared them.



NOTE : Provided there are no more horrible accident with my figurer or flash drive, expression for the next chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island escape

A/N : Without further delay… Read, revue, Enjoy !





After crash landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to learn zilch worse that a few scrapes and kale. Unfortunately the Calluna vulgaris hadn't survived as well and lay a few base away in pieces. Glad that it hadn't been her to twine up that way, she shook herself off and got to her understructure. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't answer her… A promptly glance up through the treetops let her know why. respective dragons seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking strait. With a broken ling she knew she couldn't do much to help them and they certainly were too distracted to come help her… it was up to her to figure out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to suspend up with indecision, there were too many mass counting on her and More than that, she wanted to prove to herself that she was subject of branching out on her own.

It was much hotter here than it was back at schooltime and so the first thing she did was foray off her jacket before she fainted of heat exhaustion. She knew that she had to initiate moving and preferably with a determination. Using her wand as a locator, she made her way through the Ellen Price Wood, trying not to look anywhere but right in nominal head of her. She didn't want to become distract, she just wanted to get Fred and get the pit off this island. Within ten minutes of walk, she found herself at Fred and Elanya's campground. The two were talking and she heard Fred offering to help the other young lady if she would promise to call up off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's division of her plan ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the former girl to keep her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in fourth dimension to intercept Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped short as she saw Elanya root for her own sceptre out… realizing that Fred was unarmed, Hermione worried that he would get caught in the middle if they started dueling. He stood there and looked at her as if she were the greatest thing he'd ever seen, making her look more confident in the face of the other girl. `` Hermione ? '' He asked hesitantly before rushing over and wrapping his arms around her. As expert as it felt to ingest him hold her, she was heedful to continue her wand up fifty Elanya decide to use the misdirection to her advantage.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted, forcing herself to believe they would bear clip to properly reunite later if they got themselves out of this now. `` I was incorrectly yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to work us want to facilitate her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to unite them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, taking a few steps forward and pointing her wand more directly at Hermione.

'' What does it matter if it's true ? '' Fred asked quietly as he turned and placed himself between the girls.

'' Well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically conceive her over me ? '' Elanya offered them a afters smile that dripped with vicious intentions.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the moment. '' He answered her as he gestured to the fact the she was waving her wand at them. Hermione realized in that mo that he hadn't completely given into believing Elanya, that he'd mostly managed to believe his own inherent aptitude. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her free hand to consider his, wanting him to know that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her helping hand in return, accepting that she was going to be there with him no matter what.

'' I thought as much. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's time to move to plan B. '' She quickly waved her sceptre, giving Hermione only seconds to throw up a shield around herself and Fred to parry the while. Before she could repay fire, the girl ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` William Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then bolt down Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most in all probability prof Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and shot respective stunners in promptly succession but the early girlfriend was fast, raising her shield in meter before attempting to fire back and disarm her. By this time Fred had gotten to his feet and back into the thick of matter, forcing Hermione to halt her attack so he wouldn't get hit by error. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her sceptre at him, keeping him from getting too close to her. `` You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the other. Your crony will die. ``

'' birdcall Erebos and tell him to impart Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as classical vocalization as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the land, stomping on it and ruining their only probability to call off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, come and take on it. '' She dared them.

Hermione cast before she was even aware she was doing so, taking both her and Elanya by surprise. The lady friend had to dodge rather than shield, sending Hermione's go to shatter the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree behind her. Seeing what a serious turn she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the grunge from her dress. `` Well, I suppose we've moved past stunners then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the wand she'd dropped in her haste to act out of the way.

Hermione felt Fred grab her arm and pull her into the collapsible shelter. `` Shield it ! '' He yelled at her.

She quickly waved her scepter, yelling `` Protego Totalum ! '' and a few other incantation, turning the tent into their own small fort ... they were gain magical spell she'd only practiced once in the safety of a classroom background. She was truly surprise that she'd been able to fulfil it here while her heart was racing and panic gripped her mind. They could hear Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling spell after spell at the tent as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how long this will adjudge. '' She said fearfully, turning to see that Fred had taken to tearing the place apart. `` What are you doing ? ``

'' I'm looking for my wand… she took it from me but it has to be around here somewhere ! '' He replied desperately as he threw things over his articulatio humeri. He turned to the part of the tent that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

'' You really have a stove in here ? '' She asked incredulously as he struggled to riffle the matter over.

'' When it came to expend my money, Elanya spared no disbursement. Top of the line everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the comfort of your dwelling. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the refrigerator following. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to take up up a folded towel. Sure enough, his wand was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a shot of relief knowing that she wouldn't be the but one armed. His own relief was evident as he tightly gripped his wand and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a look that sent chill through her body. Without a Book he strode up to her and eagerly placed his hired hand around her neck opening, pulling her font to his so that he could passionately seize her sass. He kissed her with such depth and hunger that she was left feeling dizzy and had to accomplish out and seize him to continue her peg from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his munition around her shank he deepened the kiss even more before breaking it off and resting his straits against hers. They were both leftover breathless and happy to once more be so close. `` I'm really glad to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't Tell. '' She teased, leaning up to kiss his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll construct it clearer when I have more time to bring in my point. '' Fred grinned before turning serious once more. They could still hear Elanya out there, doing everything she could to gap the shelter charms Hermione had cast. `` We have to get out of here without her seeing. '' He said, letting her go and turning to view their temp stronghold.

'' I'm open to suggestions. ``

He scratched his head and turned to gaze at her a moment before breaking into a grinning. `` Of course ! If I can slang my own mother then it should be easy to fool Elanya. ``

'' What are you talking about ? '' Hermione asked, watching as he waved his wand over himself.

And then suddenly there were two of him and she had the uneasy feeling that George had somehow come back to life. Shaking it off, she tried to smile in backup. `` You really recall she'll go after our doubles ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his verge over her to conjure her up a double of her own. Moving hers to tolerate following to his, he studied them both closely. `` They look just enough to me. '' He shrugged.

'' fountainhead, I certainly don't have a advantageously idea. '' She moved to hide herself behind the turned-over stove, as Fred took their silent doubles and instructed them to exit the tent and just run as far and fast as they could.

Knowing that her magical spell would be broken as soon as the barrier was breached, he shoved them through the opening and quickly came over to crouch beside her just in case Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to occur lookup the tent. `` Here goes nothing. '' He whispered.

( fault )

Being able-bodied to stick out down on the study, Ron almost felt like he really was part of the plot and was grateful to McGonagall for letting him have this one small small-arm of what made him felicitous. He watched his team fly together and was thrilled to see them pull ahead in the score, cheering them along as any honorable coach would do. The snow had been magically cleared off the field but he didn't need it to be reminded that winter was on it's way, the day was clear and very cold. He huddled deeper into his jacket after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the mark jumped far enough ahead in Gryffindor's favor, he decided it was good to read a prison-breaking and go down to the refreshment stand for some hot coffee to warm his interior. Making his way through the footlocker way, he took the exit leading outside the arena and nearly ran into mortal trying to make their way in. `` Oh, rationalise me sir. '' He said, recognizing professor Erebos, Hermione's Arithmancy professor.

'' Not at all Mr. Weasley. It was you I was actually coming to find. '' Erebos replied with what was clearly an attempt at a friendly grin… but the tightness at the corners of his mouth indicated to Ron that something was troubling the man.

'' What about ? '' He asked suspiciously though he didn't know why he felt that way. Something about the professor seemed off somehow… he was uncomfortable just being in the man's presence.

'' I'm not exactly for sure. There is a untested fair sex out in the woods who flagged me down and asked me to come find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his shoulder at the Forbidden timber. `` She wouldn't let me to see her face, so I can't be sure… but she looked very much like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've come to find you because she was so insistent but I think I must also go to the Headmaster and inform him that one of his missing students has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Annapurna was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a letter of the alphabet off yesterday through lupine, he wasn't even for sure it had enough time to arrive to her so that couldn't be what drove her to hail back. He had to lecture to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could establish up and send her running. `` Just let me go see her foremost. ``

Erebos shook his head. `` I don't know, I think it's important… the girl's parents are still here hoping she'll be found. It's cruel to not narrate them and rent the opportunity that she'll run again. ``

'' Please, I'll convince her to stay. '' He promised with his fingers crossed.

'' okay, how about this ? I'll go with you into the woods to see her, I'll let you two have your moment of concealment and then we can all go to Dumbledore together. '' He offered. `` It's the lone way I'm assured that missy Patil will return to where she belongs. ``

Ron reluctantly agreed, following the professor around the binding of the arena to the Forbidden wood. They walked pretty far into the trees, deepening Ron's intuition to the point where he was ready to turn back. `` Annapurna got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the woods ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his sceptre out and a demented smile across his face. `` Sorry for the conjuring trick Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to derive into the woods with me. ``

He swallowed the large gawk of fear and affright that had risen in his throat. `` Why ? '' He tried to go on his voice steady but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To kill you. '' The professor said simply as he prepared to cast the ultimate unforgivable curse. And then the man was screaming in pain as his wand burst into flaming in his bridge player, forcing him to drop it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his scoop for his sceptre before turning to find Jacey standing a few yards behind him, her own sceptre in one hand and a expectant ball of firing in the other as she angrily stared down the professor. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked in his surprise.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She returned, seeming hurt that those were the outset words he'd chosen to speak at the sight of her.

They both whipped around as the sound of someone applause filled the air. Ron's eyes widened in shock as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a tumid tree, slowly applauding them. `` Well done. '' She laughed.

'' The little beef burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted as he held the now useless process close to his body.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you defective than that when you've angered me lupus erythematosus. '' Elise giggled before turning her tending specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very curious to find out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as soft to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, throwing out her arms and producing her own fireballs in her hands. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll consider this your hearing. '' She taunted.

( BREAK )

Luna just couldn't shake up off the last two Dragon chasing her. They forced her to fly away from the island, zooming so far over the ocean she could see Castellumshire on the horizon… still the creatures wouldn't break up the Salmon P. Chase. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't solution, making her very flighty. She could experience that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a parting of her genius had shut off and she was completely ineffectual to commune with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their powers, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was able to know where to go to avoid being hit by claws, teeth and tails… that told her that her precognative instincts were well in tact as she knew she certainly wasn't the best flier.

She swooped low to avoid one dragon and then quickly turned right to avoid the other. Her feet skimmed the water and she quickly pulled back up, making a long arc around Castellumshire before heading back toward the Gateway Islands. Becoming distracted by a strange sound below her, she took the chance and looked down only to receive a modest speedboat zooming through the water headed the same direction she was. Feeling the dragons right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one soul on board… a female wearing a hat and large sunglasses. suspicion guessing through her and she raced ahead, despairing to warn Harry.

At end she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the other eight Draco were. They were circling, clearly doing the same thing she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must feature landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in hopes that he would see her. She let out a surprise screech when two of the tartar suddenly grounded ahead of her, opening their jaws and waiting for her to fly at them. Fixing her grip as she'd seen Harry do, she made a sharp left field and headed back out over the water system where four more dragons waited. Once again changing her clutches, she zoomed straight up. `` LUNA ! appear OUT ! '' She heard Harry scream from far below her. Apparently he had seen her and ran out onto the beach to scream out.

It took a mo too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the couple of dragons that had been laying in wait among the treetops had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, luxuriously over the island hoping to lose them among the fluffy Andrew Dickson White clouds. But before she could get herself quite that high, she felt one of the puppet grab the end of her broom and pull her through the air. She lost her adhesive friction completely and felt herself start to give up fall. intellection as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her descent until she was able to lightly place her feet on the ground. Her relief quickly gave way to all out terror as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the Dragon'nest. Only this time she had no heather and she was completely alone.

( breakage )

Harry had just used his verge to tack the broom he'd found in the Mrs. Henry Wood back together when Luna's scream echoed around him. He raced back onto the beach to catch an inconceivable sight- she was flying recklessly through the air as she tried to get away from all ten dragon. Seeing two of the beasts break off from the mathematical group and shroud themselves among the trees he realizing what the rather intelligent creatures were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his mind but while he could still feel that changeless connection to her, it was as if mortal had cut a wire somewhere and all he could pick up was a telephone dial tint. Throwing everything he had into it, he cupped his handwriting around his oral cavity and screamed out a word of advice to her, hoping she was able to discover him. If she did, it was too tardily. The early firedrake had forced her to fly toward their ambush and the two hiding leapt out to surprise her. She shot upwards but to no avail as one reached out and grabbed her broom. She fell off as the brute snapped the ling like a toothpick, making Harry's heart stop for a moment. But this time she had her wand and was able to slow her descent, but when he saw where she landed his heart dropped entirely into his tum. The Dragon had seen her too and they all descended on their nest, spirit on ousting the intruder.

affright swept through him and he hurried to finish the final repairs on the broom. Hearing a motorized auditory sensation he quickly ducked out of the way as a sauceboat carelessly drove up into the sand, allowing a familiar char to leap out down and face him. `` hi Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old friends, casually throwing her hat and sunglasses back into the boat.

'' I don't have time for you. '' He said. Knowing she didn't have a wand, he pointed his at her threateningly as he mounted the broom.

'' So I saw… seems your little protagonist fell into the wrong lieu. '' She grinned. `` Care to let some help in retrieving her ? ``

Harry eyed her warily. `` Why, so you can just kill us both ? ``

'' Come now, let's put the past times behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have time to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the corpse of his Firebolt, long forgotten a few grand down the beach. `` Fix that up and net ball go. ``

He had no choice, he needed help distracting the dragons so he could fly in and grab Luna. Handing Sarah the Calluna vulgaris he'd been holding, he ran over and waved his wand, fixing his own broom as best he could… at to the lowest degree it was in flying condition if not properly calibrated for the best flight of stairs possible. Together, they lifted off the primer, instantly making their way to the tidy sum. Harry just hoped his desperation for assistance didn't wind instrument up being his downfall.

( intermission )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibility cloak tightly around herself and closed her eyes, doing her full to condense on apparating to just outside the quidditch pitch at Hogwarts. Of class, she was still getting the hang of the entirely affair and so while she did get herself to Hogwarts, she was no where near the arena. In fact, she wound up inside the castle, just beyond the doors to the Great student residence. With a sigh of frustration, she made trusted she was completely covered by the cloak before making her way outside.

Of form she had agreed to aid save an eye on Ron… she just had no idea why. He had made himself very clear that he wished to deal things on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back off and let him learn just how much he needed his friends. But she could never do that and not only because she truly believed this man Erebos would vote down him… She also could not empty Ron because some percentage of her knew that his end would have in mind her own as well. He had made a valid spot the other nighttime, they did not sleep with each former, they had only just met and under the tensest of circumstances. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was Sir Thomas More than unforced to see what came of that drawing card as she had already admitted that his letter is what ultimately made her decide to come here in the first of all place… she only hoped he would come to his weed long enough to-

She stopped dead in her cart track as she realized she may make arrived too late. Just beyond the sphere, she saw two figures slip quickly into the Forbidden Forest and she was sure of at to the lowest degree one of their identities. The other she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak fall away as soon as she was within the tree line so that she could run with more hurrying and less hindrance. At last she came upon them and see she had been correct on both account statement, Ron and Erebos were a few M ahead of her. She could feel Ron's intuition and uncertainness as he was led further into the trees.

'' Parvati got your tending from way back here ? Why were you in the woods ? '' He asked. Jacey was angry on his behalf, upset that the prof was willing to use such an give wound to trick him into coming out here.

Erebos turned around wearing a cruel and malefic smile. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a grounds for you to come into the woods with me. ``

'' Why ? '' Ron asked slowly, clearly trying to figure out what was going on and how to get out of it.

'' To kill you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his aim a moment before he raised his wand and did the starting time thing that came into her mind… She set his verge on fire. He screamed in botheration, dropping the thing as he cradled his injured manus to his body.

Ron pulled out his own verge before turning to figure out just what had happened. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked as his regard locked in on her.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She said stiffly, feeling injury to still see anger under the surprise in his eyes as he stared at her.

The strait of person slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to notice Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the trees. She had never met the woman and only knew her from the retentiveness of others, but she was sure of who she was seeing. `` Well done. '' Elise laughed with true amusement.

'' The little bitch burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted, glaring at them all.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you worse than that when you've angered me less. '' She laughed again. Then ignoring both males, she spoke directly to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very curious to retrieve out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a completely new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, waving her hands and producing her own fire. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll consider this your auditory sense. ``

Putting her wand in her pocket so that both of her hands were relieve, Jacey let the flames flare out of her bigger and with more of a boom than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the cleaning woman did not pause to begin her attack, hurling balls of flame one after the other. Engulfing her integral torso in attack, Jacey was able to take in whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to feel very affectionate. Run before this gap ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit busy at the moment. He answered. She glanced over to chance him alternatively trying to put out the flames spreading through the forest and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his wand and was trying to pee it work with his undamaged handwriting. It seemed that every once in awhile the man was able-bodied to get the wand to do his spell which only distracted Ron from his impromptu attempt at being a firefighter.

She tried reaching for her scepter but Elise only renewed her efforts, making it clear that she intended this fight to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no selection but to fight fire with flame. It was more than Ron's piddle spell could stay fresh up with and if they didn't happen a way to end this soon, there was no telling how far the flame would broadcast. She did her best to focus on controlling and containing them to their small orbit but it lessened the amount of density she could kick in to the literal fight and found herself more on the defensive that she would have thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't care where the fervency banquet was giving the woman an sharpness over her but there was nix she could do about that, she had to do her best to control the harm her big businessman caused. Realizing they were going to postulate assistance and taking even more tending away from the battle, she called out to Draco as he was the only one left here that she trusted to ask for help. She hoped he made it in time.

'' Jacey ! '' Ron yelled, bringing her full attention back to the moment at hand. Seeing that she'd been momentarily distracted, Elise had taken her chance and used everything she had to buck a jet stream of fire directly at her. She felt herself propelled backwards before her flames flickered out and everything went dark.

( recess )

'' What do you imply you have to go service Jacey ? '' Ginny demanded as Draco grabbed his pelage. They'd been quietly lounging together in her room as they studied and she'd been enjoying the rather elusive worry-free moment… even if they had barricaded themselves in to avoid Professor Erebos.

Looking at his face, she could tell he wasn't any more pleased with the mind of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the school grounds and she and Erebos have your brother cornered out in the wood. '' He answered honestly, in too a good deal of a hurry to attempt lying. `` Trust me, the alone rationality I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, stay in here and don't unfold the threshold to anyone until I get back, OK ? ``

'' Not okay. I want to go with. '' She insisted, moving to grab her coat as well.

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the shoulder and forced her to look at him. `` I'll be much more effective in providing the help Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the same problem out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

'' Meaning she's in trouble because she's distracted by view of Ron and anyone else being hurt… I can't be of often assistance if we add your public assistance to our tilt of business concern. ``

'' Need I remind you again that you aren't an divinity god or even a superhero ? You're a formula guy who got stuck with a being a wolfman and are just as up to of burning to death as I am. '' She gripped his arms, unwilling to let him pass on her sight.

'' We don't have time to argue. For once just humor me and stay here. '' He pleaded.

She stared at him a moment, letting the wheel turn in her head as she figured out what to do. `` fine, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at live on, too interest about Ron and Jacey to keep him any longer.

He seemed suspicious but he had no choice other than to admit her accord. Leaning in to quickly buss her au revoir, he then turned and fled the way. Walking over to her window, she waited until she saw him zip across the schooling grounds… he was faster than any human she'd ever seen and she could understand why he liked going out to run so much- it must be impossible to opine when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coating she fled her way, rushing through the halls and out the strawman door. She would keep her promise not to survey after him… but she wasn't going to allow him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the school staff sat. Unfortunately, the soul she wanted to talk to was also sitting next to the soul she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three aliveness might be at wager, her chum's among them. `` Can we aid you with something ? '' Lupin asked with a friendly smile as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the master, she took a deep breath and spoke to lupin. She knew it was best to keep mention of Jacey and Elise out of things with so many ears around and so she made her point as bring in and concise as potential. `` Draco ran out into the woods to try and stop Professor Erebos from killing Ron. They need help. ``

( BREAK )

Fred waited a goodness two mo to be trusted Elanya was gone before turning to overturn the bottom of the tent behind them. `` It's now or never. '' He told Hermione. She nodded solemnly and taking her hand, he led the way as they ran from the only matter that had been able to protect them. He tried to repeatedly yell out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't hear me at all ! '' He said aloud in foiling as they carefully made their way through the tree, keeping an ear out for any sign of Elanya closing in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the energy theater of operations generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with to the highest degree seafaring tools, even the magical ace. It's the main reason it's so surd for people to recover these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that sure brainwave frequence Harry and Luna use to transmit their telepathic ability. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're stuck finding them the old fashion way. '' He tried to use his wand to direct him towards the dear support homo but the stupid matter kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

'' Unless… '' She looked upward and he followed her gaze. There were various flying lizard still out and they seemed to be attacking their own nest. `` You don't think… ? ``

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the solitary answer was that their Quaker were up there and in a lot of trouble. `` I guess we try to go up it. '' He walked toward the home of the quite a little until he heard a humble shriek of surprisal that told him that Hermione wasn't following. Turning he found her struggling to free her foot from a rather ugly looking plant. Originally mistaking it for some kind of shrub, they had walked by unaware… but now the affair had spread it's leaves apart and was shooting out several tentacle-like protrusions that were attempting grab Hermione and pull out her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his wand. But the plant seemed to be immune to magic and nothing he tried would make it stop.

'' Let go ! '' She yelled as she kicked at the plant. Not knowing what else to do, Fred picked up a gravid rock and began slamming it down on the tentacles. The flora let out a pitiful sound, indicating it could feel pain. In an attempt to free herself, Hermione reached for another rock and helped him beat the tentacles away. Grabbing her under her subdivision, he pulled her to her feet and they scrambled away before the strange bush could regroup.

'' Well, that was something new. '' He said as they caught their breath. He'd certainly never come across a plant like this before in all his fourth dimension wandering the island though he'd definitely found some eldritch single. Of course, other than end night when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this close to the foundation of the mountains. He gave silent thanks that he hadn't passed by this thing in the dark.

'' Let's just go along going. '' Hermione seemed rickety but determined and so he nodded and went on, this time ensuring they remained side by side. It was a short walk and looking towards the sky, they were able to see that the way to the top of the great deal wasn't exactly straight up… that was a good matter, making it less likely that they would fall to their destruction while attempting this. `` OK, we just need to notice the right billet to bulge. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the rocky paries and several different way of life up.

Fred took a different approach path, walking right up to the great deal and trying out the handholds and ground in a few places. Taking a few Thomas More steps to the left, he reached to climb up only to feel the rocks give way under his hand. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the reason, knocking the breath out of him and sending shooting pains up and down his leg. `` Fred ! '' He heard Hermione screaming his name.

'' Yeah ! '' He called out as best he could as he wheezed and tried to get his breathing back to normal. `` I'm alive ! '' He assured her more loudly once he was able.

'' Yes, but are you okay ? '' She yelled down to him.

'' I think my leg broke my crepuscule. '' He shouted back, groaning in annoyance as he sat up to consider a look at himself. Feeling around on the ground he recovered his sceptre and quickly lit it, reaching out to delicately examine his leg. `` I don't think anything's broken ! '' He assured her. No, not broken… just really banged up. He'd definitely landed on it wrong and he could see the stallion thing swelling from his knee down to his ankle.

'' I'm going to drift you up. ``

'' Just give me a instant to gather myself. '' Putting as little weight on it as possible, he slowly climbed to his substructure. Only once he was standing did he realize he seemed to hurt everywhere including the articulatio humeri that had been broken last year during the quidditch match against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the buttocks of his shirt in his mouth to muffle any sounds of bother he might draw, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a moment he was able to forget all about his leg, but then came the gumption of relief that told him that he'd achieved the result he'd wanted, his shoulder was back in it's proper seat. Panting from the drive he wiped the effort from his face and took a few stabilise intimation. `` Okay, fix ! '' He called out.

Instantly his human foot carefully left the priming coat, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the handwriting of some invisible giant. He put his sceptre in his pocket as he rose up, wanting to consume both bridge player free to help pull himself clear of the surprisingly small opening he'd fallen through. At go he was able-bodied to see Hermione, using her wand to direct his progress. Reaching up, he grabbed the sharpness of the bouldery opening. `` I need you to keep propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a beneficial traction with my animal foot. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her assiduity, trying to only contribute him an additional rise as he struggled to displume himself free. Now being forced to use all the strength in his weapons system, he was glad that he'd gone swimming so much while he was trapped here and built up his sinew a bit.

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Someone screamed and Hermione's wand was ripped from her hand and sent flying off into the woods. Without her enchantment to aid him, he lost a bit of his grip and struggled through the pain to find a foothold lest he go down back down into the cavern. He scrambled to concur onto the tilt despite how shrill they were… once he felt steadily, he was able to look up and see Elanya staring at them with a wide smile as she tauntingly waved her wand. `` I'm sorry it took so long to bump off those two-bagger you sent running out… it seems you're a secure conjurer than I thought. ``

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione tried to reason with her as Fred struggled to use his injure leg to help agitate him through the hole. But the more insistency he tried to put on it, the more numb it seemed to grow… almost to the point where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to strive back for his scepter but letting go of the rocks made him instantly slide backwards. He would need all the specialty in his arms to pull himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to face Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new determination, he decidedly placed his feet and pushed off with them, gritting his teeth against the pain. From there he was able to reach out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( BREAK )

'' Jacey ! '' Ron shouted but he was too late. Something had distracted her farsighted enough for Elise to get in a lineal hit, sending her flying through the air and leaving her crumpled in the snow. He tried to run to her but felt person barrel into him, tackling him to the ground.

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroyed sceptre directly in Ron's grimace as he pinned him to the primer. `` This here is between us ! ``

'' I don't even be intimate who the hell you really are ! '' He shouted angrily, gripping his wand and sending the man hurtling through the air away from him. `` Jacey ! '' He yelled again as he sat up and saw Elise bending over her.

'' She's indisposed at the moment. '' Elise called, straightening herself and turning to face him. He scrambled to his feet and pointed his wand with a pee magical spell on the tip of his glossa and ready to be used. `` So, her name is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own baton. `` What else can you tell me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just demand a instant to find and focus my energies. He heard Jacey's voice whisper through his head. Do not engage her… genus Draco is on his way to help.

auditory sense that she was uninjured, moderation swept through him so quickly his articulatio genus almost buckled out from under him. `` Nothing to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his attention back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the solely one to be seen with the mysterious castling guest at the Costume Ball… he also told me how close you two appeared to be so I know you can recite me everything I want to know. Of line, seeing how reluctant you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always squeeze you to tell me. Though if we have to go that route, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you want to cognize ? '' He asked, hoping to buy time.

'' Everything about her that you know. ``

'' I know she's a prevaricator. '' He said quickly. `` I know I can't cartel anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly duplicate every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to screen out the facts. '' He pushed himself to feel as genuinely tempestuous as possible, wanting the char to think there was no reason to cogitate she'd be successful in using Jacey against him and frailty versa ... or even ameliorate, convincing Elise that she didn't want anything to do with Jacey. He felt horrible, not just for what he'd said now, but also for the things he'd said in the past… and even after he'd uttered such horrifying nonsense, she'd still come to try and avail him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those affair, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

'' A good liar can be of with child use. '' Elise nodded approvingly. `` Unfortunately, it seems you are of no use at all. ``

GET OUT OF THE WAY ! Jacey screamed in his read/write head and he saw her leap to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her hands to call forth her fire. Before he could wave his wand to shield, someone roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his understructure and carrying them both away riotous than Ron thought possible. It only took him a moment to see who had just may cause saved his life.

'' We have to go back for Jacey ! '' He yelled to Draco who immediately turned them around.

As they approached the two young woman still whipping flaming at each other without lots care as to what was around them, mortal shouted `` Impedimenta ! '' forcing Draco to trip and sending both boys sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his scepter, Ron leapt to his infantry as Draco fought the tour he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any tightlipped to fray. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's verge tauntingly. `` Looks like your acquaintance dropped this. '' He grinned. `` Time to see how much you've really learned while you've been here at Hogwarts Mr. Weasley. ``

There was no time to be nervous, he instantly cast a shield having seen the man ready to throw a spell at him. Within a second he had retaliated by sending a freezing hex, but the prof took a Thomas Nelson Page from Jacey and Elise's Holy Writ shooting a stream of ardor from his sceptre that met the spray of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his absorption he repeated the spell, attempting to strengthen his position… but Erebos was just as determined and unrelenting.

'' ENOUGH ! '' A booming interpreter surrounded them.

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from head to toe in battlefront of him. Ron took several abstruse breather and lowered his wand as Dumbledore and Lupin came forward. The enchantment meant to keep Draco at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up next to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only loud enough for him to hear.

'' Don't quotation it. '' He answered grimly.

Dumbledore walked over to stare down at his disgraced prof. `` Well Dolos, it seems I've finally caught you in something you won't be able to mouth your way out of. '' He said with a fragile yet triumphant smile.

( BREAK )

Looking around quickly, Luna spotted a small gap across the nest the seemed to lead into the mint. She instantly ran towards it though she was unsealed even her curt and rebuff underframe could constrict through. Intuition burned in her gut and she flung herself to the primer coat with a minuscule scream of panic as she felt one of the massive wolf fly over her. Flipping onto her back she shot a mantrap at the animal's partner as it swooped in to make it's own attempt at catching her. The spell seemed to bounce off the firedrake's hide, having no outcome other than to anger the creature even more. Luna quickly rolled to the side as it snapped at her before flying off to move over the next twain their turn with her.

Scrambling to her foundation, Luna shot toward the cave possibility. She was tempted to use her wand and blast the hollow open wider, but she worried that might possibly break up the stableness of the mountain. The stopping point thing she wanted was to escape the beast only to be buried in a landslip or cave-in. Throwing herself forward, she was just barely able to squeeze through, turning her body sideways to make it.

She screamed as she felt a sharp stab of pain and turned, using her wand to burn the dragon who had grabbed her arm before she could fully hide herself. This seemed to have more effect than anything else as the beast let out a mighty screeching of pain and let her go. Pulling herself further into the crevice, she was led down a bit into a expectant cave where she tripped over something that rattled and rolled away from her foot. With a sick flavour in the pit of her abdomen, she lit her wand and covered her rima oris to hold back the scream of repugnance she wanted to unleash. Several osseous tissue littered the floor of the cave, and they seemed to belong to both fauna and humans.

Remaining near the scuttle, she turned her back so she wouldn't have to see any of it and instead focused on checking the damage done to her arm. Seeing two large bloody gashes in the sleeve of her coating, she shrugged it off feeling far too affectionate anyway. Tearing off the rest of the ruin sleeve of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her skin and found that, while painful, the boodle didn't seem to go too deep… While it had been happening, it had felt like her arm was nearly severed and she was more than a minuscule unbosom to get word that wasn't the suit. She quickly used the rubbish of fabric that had once been her arm to twine the wound and quench the bleeding.

'' LUNA ! '' She heard Harry yelling desperately for her.

'' I'M here ! '' She shouted back, forcing herself up through the narrow orifice to render to the snuggle. Peering out from the jam, she caught the unsufferable sight of not only Harry, but also Sarah Elaine as they both zoomed through the air, working together to disorder and fraction the dragons. Luna watched in amazement as Sarah flew past several bowlder, using her thought transference to knock them over onto the pair of dragons that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her aid back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and forth until he was able to taunt all of the flying dragon back into the air. They may not be able to communicate in their heads at the second, but she knew him well enough to infer what he wanted her to do. As soon as the hold out dragon had taken flight, she ran out into the open where Harry could see her. Putting her sceptre between her teeth, she threw her hands in the air as he passed over and struggled to keep back on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on fervour with pain as she struggled to climb up onto the heather with him as they'd done at Lairmore, but she tried to push it out of her creative thinker until she was safely seated behind him.

'' You got it ? '' Harry called over his shoulder as she settled herself and wrapped her offend arm around him.

'' Just fly, I'll cast. '' She assured him, taking her wand from her mouth and turning to shoot a stream of blast at the two dragons that were just a few short feet behind them, sending the beasts to dive away.

'' This way ! '' Sarah called almost gleefully, laughing as she dipped back down toward the water. As they descended, Luna was capable to make out yet another small boat streaking toward the island. Sarah flew them down towards it and with ten dragon fast behind them, Harry had no choice but to travel along. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was capable to recognize the two mass on the boat and as soon as she made the link she knew she was right. `` That's impossible… '' She said breathlessly.

'' What ? '' Harry asked, turning his caput slightly to hear her punter. She could feel his defeat at not experiencing the accomplished memory access to her mentation that he'd become used to having… she knew he felt this way because it was the same precise way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' Watch where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a warning as the air suddenly exploded in a shower of flame all around them.

( happy chance )

While pretending to be injured, Jacey assured Ron that she was in fact OK before focusing on herself. She went into her own head, trying to gain her free energy and refuel her flack. Sending her mind out, she heard him apologizing to her… I know. She answered him, and she did get laid that he genuinely felt bad for the way he had spoken to her only to happen upon that she would get along to his rescue anyway.

And then Elise's thoughts overpowered his and she was able to see that the woman intended to get rid of the only person there to witness whatever she had planned. GET OUT OF THE WAY ! She screamed at Ron, as she lurched to her invertebrate foot. She watched in horror as Elise unleashed a fiery blaze in his direction… which is the take moment Draco swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the fight. Jacey was grateful that she now had one lupus erythematosus thing to care about. She reached for her verge only to discover that at some point it had fallen out of her air pocket. Cupping her hand, she formed a fast fireball and threw it at Elise, knocking the woman square toes in the back before she could light up herself on fire to absorb the impinging. This caused her not only to scream in pain but Sir Thomas More importantly, to completely forget about chasing after the boys.

She quickly lit and extinguished herself before turning to Jacey. `` And I thought it was only those on Voldemort's English who struck people in the back. ``

'' You do not experience me or what I have been able of in the past… I could have got just as easily joined the other side. '' Jacey replied darkly, trying not to let herself cogitate of anything in her past.

'' Except there's obviously something you want that Harry and his allies can provide you. '' Elise grinned. `` Tell me what it is and I promise I can get it to you degenerate and with less trouble that they ever could. ``

'' I highly doubt that. '' She thought of what she wanted and knew the only way to get any of it was to rest firm and trusty to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the life Elise was offering and had only recently been able to thrust off the shackles of that variety of existence… The one where you could hope no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt unequaled and scared and were forced into being someone you are not in orderliness to outlast. She was ready for the life that came with being Harry's ally and a fellow member of the coven… She was cook for the form of friendly relationship you would lay on the line your life story for even after arguing and she was ready for the exemption of being able to say and do what she wanted, of being able to care about anything and everything, of being able to be herself.

'' semen now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just imagine if you joined us, imagine the world after we win this war… we'll be able to shape it into anything we want it to be. It'll no longer be about thaumaturgist and muggles, it'll be about those corresponding us… those with power. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can cause as much destruction as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the just interest of all if we could reach some sort of arrangement. ``

'' So then you concede the fight. '' Jacey challenged, brushing off the woman's poorly composed gross sales pitch.

'' I'm dong no such thing. '' She assured her, once more firing herself on fire in case Jacey decided to throw another ball of flame. She stared past her and smiled before once more coming together her eye. `` It looks like Dolos is about to pass over out Ron. ``

Not wanting to contribute Elise the satisfaction of distracting her, she quickly conjured the largest fireball she could and get off it flying at the woman at top swiftness, knocking her to the ground. Circling around so as to never have her back to Elise, she scanned the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to crusade off whatever spell was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this fight, she saw Elise reach out from the ground and period. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her arms to shield her head as the Tree next to her exploded in flame. `` ENOUGH ! '' A loud, authorised voice reverberated through the tree diagram. Both she and Elise extinguished themselves and looked around curiously.

sculptural relief flooded through her when she saw Dumbledore and Lupin rushing over to Ron, Draco and Erebos. `` Well, I guess this means it's time to go. '' Elise smiled, shooting one Sir Thomas More surprisal blast of flaming before turning and running off through the trees.

Jacey quickly dodged before running off after her. `` No ! break off her ! '' She shouted as the cleaning lady passed within a few feet of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several tree on fire as a distraction to stay fresh them interfering. Leaving it to the others to hold the flames from spreading, Jacey never slowed her gait and continued on in her pursuit. She thought she was alone until she felt Draco coming up behind her… and then he was passing her as he moved with inconceivable speed. Do not let her make it past the school day's limit ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was ineffective to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the tribute charms… but if she made it past times Hogwarts'borders, she'd be capable to go anywhere.

Seeing that Elise was only yards away from escaping, Dragon pushed himself a little harder and mad a wild diva, tackling the woman around her legs and bringing her to the ground. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving Draco away as Elise tried to retaliate. He threw up a cuticle around himself to hurl off the flames. `` You have to let me leave, Harry and Luna's lives may reckon on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her choler at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you mean ? '' Jacey and Draco demanded at the same time.

She reached up and pulled a modest phonograph recording from her ear and held it out for them to see. `` I've been in incessant communication with Sarah since Elanya contacted Dolos and told him to let us lie with that your friend had finally arrived on the island to economize Fred. Now she's telling me that the dragons are awake and very much after Harry and Luna. We researched that island well before choosing it and learned everything we could about the flying dragon including reading the new book written by Charlie Weasley… those dragons aren't the kind that breath fire, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to avail, but they're only three the great unwashed against a horde of beasts. If I don't go and help, two of your friends and one of mine might just get some pitiful creature's meal. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a place she could apparate from.

genus Draco uncertainly raised his wand to intercept her but Jacey grabbed his arm. `` No. '' She said quietly.

Elise only grinned wider as she extended a hired hand out to her. `` seed with me Jacey. We can work together just this once in the interestingness of saving our protagonist'life history. After we can go aright back into another firefight if you'd like ... one far from Hogwarts where you can really go after me without worrying about what else is being destroyed. '' She offered.

Don't do it… it's got to be a ambuscade. genus Draco silently warned her.

I know it is. But I can also see that she is not lying about Harry and Luna being in hassle. Jacey replied. Quickly making her choice, she rushed to take Elise's bridge player and allowed the charwoman to whisk them away before Draco could give up them.

( BREAK )

Harry dodged to the left to escape the dragon only to throw to swerve immediately justly to evade the fireball that shot past them. Luna had abandoned her attempt to use her wand and now held onto him tightly with both branch as it was exculpate that his flying was the solitary thing that was going to get them through this. He didn't pain in the ass to distract himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a flying lizard or plummet into the sea for all he cared, as long as he and Luna got out of this with their lives… Oh yeah, and Jacey who was inexplicably down on a gravy boat with Elise as both little girl flung blast in the air to chase off the creature. He wished he could tattle to Luna without turning and shouting, he wished they could discuss their options and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to help. He felt insensate and isolated being cut off… not only from her mind but from Hermione, Fred and Jacey's as well.

'' Head down to the boat ! '' Sarah called as she zoomed past them to lightly land and looked up expectantly.

'' What do you call up ? '' He called to Luna as he continued to make his way though fervidness and dragons.

'' Jacey's down there alone with the both of them ! '' She yelled back. `` Like it or not, we have to go. ``

'' I can't be sure to skirt Draco with all three of us on the broom ! ``

'' Then we'll have to put down and consider the other heather back from Sarah ! Then we can go receive Fred and Hermione and get the sin out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her side in his back in formulation for the sharp drop curtain he was about to take a leak. Fixing his traveling bag he shot straight down, streaking past several dragon until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to broadcast out fire flare to keep back the beasts at bay as he softly set his feet down on the bow of the small boat. Sarah immediately started the locomotive engine and jerked forward, sending Harry and Luna both sprawling into the boat. She turned the wheel and swung around, speeding away from the island.

'' What are you doing ? ! '' Harry demanded as he and Luna helped each former to their feet.

'' Getting us away from here, what does it look like ? '' She stared at him as if he were pudden-head before gesturing to the stern of the gravy holder where Jacey and Elise were still using their power to fend off the four Draco intent on pursuing them beyond the island.

'' No, we have to go back. '' He insisted. `` Hermione and Fred are still there. ``

'' So what ? '' Elise called over her shoulder. `` They're beat weight around your neck. Let them go. ``

'' Elanya is still there too. '' Luna argued.

Elise fully turned to them and smiled. `` So what ? '' She asked again. `` Unlike you, I trust that my allies are more than capable of taking care of themselves… and unlike you, I could like less whether they live or die. ``

'' I think this is far enough. '' Sarah said, once more turning off the engine and letting the boat heading through the water. They had apparently gone far enough to insure the tartar that they had no intentions of returning to their nestle. The beasts had finally given up the pursuit and headed back home. `` I didn't think it would take in all of this to get you to the island. '' She grinned.

'' You wanted us to come here ? '' Harry asked doubtfully.

'' Of course. '' Elise laughed. `` We knew you'd want to arrive after Fred and so he proved his low gear use to us… there's still more for him to do though. ``

'' We just never thought it would ingest you this tenacious to figure things out… Tristan must feature kept you all pretty preoccupied. '' Sarah taunted. `` Seems he's disappeared from the castle though. Can't wait to see where he turns up next. ``

Harry, Luna and Jacey stole coup d'oeil at each other… it seemed that Elise and Sarah didn't know anything about them having already killed Tristan. Yet again he wished he still had the tycoon to go into their minds to see if it was true. `` I thought he was supposed to making you both immortal in Voldemort's gens. '' He said, not wanting to give himself away while at the Saami fourth dimension hoping to get a few Thomas More answers than Simon had been able-bodied to provide.

'' We haven't yet decided whether we'll go through with that. '' Elise shared a smile with Sarah as if they were sharing some private joke. `` We're still weighing the professional and cons of immortality… but it's important to always appear agreeable to Lord Voldemort. '' She laughed.

'' But we're getting off topic. '' Sarah reminded her. `` I do believe they were about to ask why we wanted them here. ``

'' It's simple, we wanted to depict just how open we are in getting what we want and how strategic it would be for you three to bring together us. '' Elise explained to them. We figured someplace far from the influence of Dumbledore and your other friends would give us the chance to really reach ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big gesture are the only way to make the great unwashed hear ... '' Luna quietly repeated what Simon the Canaanite had said to them when explaining his own actions.

Elise stared at her in surprise. `` I'm gladiolus you see my point. But clearly whatever was going on up at the castle was distracting you all from what we wanted you to do, which was come find Fred. It was taking so long that we figured sending in Dolos to rough out up Ginny Weasley would make you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having trouble getting Fred to cooperate so we figured it would be a win-win billet. Of row the stupid man is terrified of both Draco Malfoy and your friend lupin for what they are, though he's too proud to admit it. When Draco refused access to Ginny, making it gain that the only way Dolos was reaching her was through a competitiveness with him, our LE than courageous spy gave up. But then, to our delectation we received word that you all had come to the island today anyway and we knew it was the staring opportunity so Elanya ordered Dolos to bolt down Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in trouble and so we apparated to my waiting ship and hopped in the speedboat to come to your rescue. ``

'' So what happened back at Hogwarts ? '' Harry asked nevously, this time turning to address Jacey who he'd left in commission of looking after Ron.

'' He is hunky-dory. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… last I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely proud of to have him in custody. ``

'' It doesn't subject in the least. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you imagine I left the moron behind to whatever portion befell him ? Even if he decided to turn on me, he knows nix of any consequence… I've seen to that personally. And with only two week left for you all to be at Hogwarts, the man was entirely expendable. '' She stopped to smile at the faces they were all making. `` Oh don't look at me like that. He and I had a peck, I provided my part and he provided his. Just because he got catch up with doesn't mean I had any obligation to help… he made his choice to get involved in this and now he knows he was dealing in things far above his caput. ``

'' A pitiable example to take the operose way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her caput in mock heartbreak before smiling brightly. `` In any vitrine, we got exactly what we wanted even if we had to give Dolos. Now we know Jacey. ``

'' It's okeh, Dolos was very proficient at his job when he wanted to be. '' Elise cooed, reaching out to comfort Jacey who shoved her away. She went on as if Jacey wasn't staring daggers of hatred at her. `` He saw you and Ron at the Costume Ball, and putting two and two together, he figured you were the same mysterious person Dumbledore had been keeping in his office… the one Harry and all his friends made peculiar stumble up there to chaffer. We knew putting Ron's liveliness in danger would bring you running, especially if Harry and Luna were busy elsewhere. ``

'' But Erebos really intended to kill Ron ! '' Jacey protested.

'' So ? '' Sarah shrugged. `` Who is he in all of this ? He has no power or claim to greatness. ``

'' Regardless your opinion of our Quaker, '' Harry stepped in to block off Jacey from punching Sarah in the face as it was clear she very much longed to do, `` you've done all of this for no reason. We obviously want nothing to do with you. '' He looked at Luna, hoping their connexion to each early was strong enough for her to understand what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and lead a small footprint sideways toward the Scots heather Sarah had abandoned when she'd gotten on the boat. He'd never let his go even when he'd fallen and he now held it stiffly beside him, hoping Jacey would get the clue. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their telepathy to transmit with each other… just a total understanding of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the spinal column of his shirt to indicate that she was cook. It had taken a issue of seconds but they were ready and so he quickly swung his Scots heather so they could hop on as Luna lunged for the former one and together they zoomed up into the sky, sure to travel fast enough to outrun Elise's firing range.

'' Let's go find Fred and Hermione and go home ! '' Jacey shouted unnecessarily as they rushed back toward the island with the speedboat in hot pursual below them.

( BREAK )

'' What do you require ? '' Hermione asked, trying to hide out the fact that she was scared.

'' If I knew that I would already have it, wouldn't I ? '' Elanya sneered. She walked forward, making a modest circle around her as she inspected her from every Angle. `` So, you're the reason Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to stand directly in front of her, her golden eyes glaring with a pernicious fire. `` I just don't get it. There must be something here that I'm just not seeing. '' She said with designed meanness.

Hermione kept quiet, though there were about a million things that she would have liked to say in issue. But without her wand, the last affair she wanted was to move over the female child another reason to wish her dead.

'' cypher to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's okay, I have my own way of finding thing out. '' She tightly clutched her wand before reaching out to grab Hermione's deal, the same one Fred had held earlier.

Hermione watched in horror as the girlfriend's eye rolled up into her point and she fell forward. Elanya still had her hand in a death grip and dragged her down to her knees as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some sort of vision of the past. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself free. For a brief moment she considered going into the crotch hair to appear for her sceptre but remembering her lastly coming upon with strange leafage, she decided it would be best to take Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the miss's fingers apart.

'' Not so fast ! '' Elanya screamed, coming out of her trance or whatever she was doing, tackling Hermione to the ground and shoving her scepter against her throat. Choking and coughing, she pushed against the wand as she struggled to breath but Elanya had locked her arms and was unrelenting. She leaned in close to Hermione with an evil grin. `` I saw all the retentivity you shared together. It was very sweet but not at all what he needs… I'm sorry but it has to end this way. ``

reach deep inside herself, Hermione gathered every bit of strength she had and getting her leg under the other girl, she kicked out and managed at final to get her off. Grabbing at her throat in substitute as air once more made it's way to her lungs, she struggled to her metrical foot, not wanting to be caught unaware. Elanya was already standing and pointing her wand. `` You're right, what fun is it to just end your life like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the delusion of evasion isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a head start. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to make all of her tending to the psycho missy, she had no idea whether Fred had fallen again and die his neck, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most belike that Elanya would overhear her anyway.

'' Well, that's your perquisite. '' She smiled with demented delectation and got ready to cast. `` I wish I could say it's been courteous knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her eyes and waited for impact. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another trance straight at Elanya that sent her flying several railway yard back through the trees until she hit one hard enough to knock her out. She turned to get hold him sprawled on the ground, sweating and panting from the effort of pulling himself free with a leg that even from here looked extremely swollen. `` Accio scepter. '' He called tiredly in the focus Hermione's wand had flown earlier. It shot into his manus, which he held out to her as she rushed over.

'' Are you okay ? '' She asked, taking the wand and kneeling future to him.

'' I'm really not for certain. '' He answered, groaning in infliction as she helped him sit up. His manus were bleeding from the rocks, but other than that and his leg, nothing else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his affirmation that nil was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be able-bodied to walk. `` That should help. And we'll find an old branch or something for you to use as a cane to help put your weighting on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his optic as he presumably thought of the torment of being forced to move at all, let alone to walk.

'' We have to feel Harry and Luna. They're the only 1 who can get us out of here. '' She pressed.

He nodded weakly. `` I know. Go find a leg and let's do this. '' He said, trying to rally himself.

They both kept an eye on the spot Elanya had landed as she ventured into the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree to look for a piece of wood long and stout enough for their use. At go she found one and rushed back over to aid Fred climb to his feet. Throwing his other arm around her shoulders, he was eventually able-bodied to find out a way to use both her and the make-shift walk stick to his outdo vantage as he hobbled along. `` Should we call out for them since they can't seem to get a line us in their heads ? '' She asked looking up at the sky and finding it empty.

'' I don't know… either it'll bring them to us, it'll bring someone else to us or it'll be useless because they were eaten by the dragons that now seem to suffer calmly returned to their nest. '' He answered gloomily.

'' well, that's the kind of attitude that'll get us through this. '' She said sarcastically.

'' Sorry. '' He muttered. `` I think our near bet is to go down to the beach. If they're still out there somewhere, that's the estimable place for them to see us. Calling out would only tell Elanya exactly where we are. ``

'' Okay then. '' She smiled.

He wrapped his arm more tightly around her shoulders and sighed. `` I'm glad you came to rescue me… I'm not used to playing the damoiselle. '' He grinned.

'' Yeah well, it's no picnic being the E. B. White knight either. '' She laughed. `` It's far too much pressure. ``

They walked on in comfortable quiet, as happy as they could be given their site. To his deferred payment, Fred didn't petition that they stop to remain until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the open. Moving over to a chemical group of small bowlder, she helped him sit while keeping the rocks and water at their backs and their center able to see the tree seam and anyone who may tramp out of it. `` Did you hear that ? '' He asked after a short patch, shading his eyes as he searched the afternoon sky.

A whooshing auditory sensation came from above them and they saw Luna and Harry shoot through the air over the island. `` Is there soul on Harry's ling ? '' She asked, trying to figure out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the time to squall and get their aid. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to assist push himself to his invertebrate foot. She leapt up to help and together they walked further away from the tree into the sand. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their hands until at last Harry caught pile of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her foot, Hermione looked down and gave a small shriek as respective big sea crabs scuttled across the gumption towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the trees, pointing her wand at Fred and sending the tiny wight she'd conjured after him.

Hermione tried to help fend them off but suddenly found herself dragged backwards by an unseeable force play only to end up at Elanya's feet. `` That should keep him busy enough for us to finish what we started. '' She leered down at her.

( BREAK )

These stupe crabs just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob learning ability as they swarmed over each early to reach Fred. He tried to limp after Hermione and Elanya who had taken to dueling each other boost up the beach but between his already injured leg and the knifelike claws continually piercing the hide of the ripe one, it was all he could do to keep open from falling over. Using his baton and the pin he'd been carrying as a crutch to fend the little pestilence off, he slowly persisted forward while looking to the sky to see why Harry and Luna hadn't landed to help them yet. He saw that they'd become involved in their own engagement out over the ocean as a boat raced toward the beach. Once of the people aboard was shooting bolide and run of flame into the air while the person riding with Harry returned the fiery approach. Luna was swooping in, waving her sceptre and stirring up some undulation in an attempt to prevent the boat from reaching the island… but it was gain the person driving cared nothing about the sauceboat, damaging it beyond hangout as it was battered by Luna's tour. He was so meddling watching them that he wasn't quite watching where he was going anymore… pain blastoff through his foot as he felt himself step on one of the crabs. Using the walk joint, he tried to recover his balance but his fundament sank into the gumption and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his arms to break his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his cover, he dropped the reefer and wildly waved his wand but to no avail. The creature were all over him in an instant, looking very much larger and more angry now that he was eye-level with them. There were so many, he felt as if he were being crushed under their exercising weight as they piled on top of each other, all trying to hook and pierce his skin. He thrashed wildly, sending many of them flying away… but there were always to a greater extent to take their situation. affright settled over him as he realized that he was ineffective to get up and the Phthirius pubis were taking the chance to bury him.

( BREAK )

Luna gripped the ling tightly, terrified that she was going to come off as the pocket-size of visions suddenly washed over her to fall in a warning of what was coming. It was brief enough that she didn't completely miss cognizance but detailed enough to bring through her life sentence. Quickly dodging to the left away from Harry and Jacey, she turned to see a bolide explode where she'd been only a minute ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him slopped before turning to devolve the flame Elise was sending.

'' I'm amercement ! '' She yelled back as she swerved another fireball. The gravy holder had snuck up on them and Luna was amazed to discover that her vision had served not only to monish her of the fervidness, but that for some reason those girls had decided they no longer deal if she lived or died. She wasn't sure what had changed, but from the way Elise continued to throw off flack at her alone assured Luna that at some point, her life became less worthful to them than Harry and Jacey's… And so they were attacking her to distract them all from the fact that they were approaching the island where Hermione and Fred were clearly having trouble.

deciding to do what she could to keep them from once more reaching the beach and acquit out whatever they had planned next, Luna swooped in low and used her wand to stir up some violent wafture that tossed the little boat around. She grinned in satisfaction to see Elise nearly fall overboard… unfortunately it wasn't enough to deter Sarah who drove on despite the destruction being caused to her boat. She waved her wand again, strengthening the appeal and creating bigger and more brutal waves… and then she saw the larger ship on the visible horizon, quickly heading in their commission. Distracted, she hovered in the air for a import as she tried to figure out who could be aboard.

'' Luna depend out ! '' Jacey yelled at the Lapplander time her intuition screamed in her point to call on. She was less than a second too belated and the very back of her broom was caught in the fiery stream.

Feeling herself begin to plummet, she shot toward the beach. As soon as there was solid ground below her, she rolled off the broom only to receive herself surrounded by gobs of crab louse. She quickly got to her feet but the creatures didn't seem to have any interest in her and following their progress with her eyes she was able-bodied to see Fred further away, thrashing about as all of the Cancer went about attacking him. Realizing what spell had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was nothing that was going to call them off. Ignoring the unity that pinched her as she reached down to help him get up, she saw that one of his legs was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her articulatio humeri, she got a better hold and together they were able-bodied to lift him off the ground and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to becharm his breathing spell as they both used their wands to keep the crabs at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his center wide with concern. `` Now forget about me and go help Hermione… I can't move quickly enough. ``

She looked over to see the fille dueling heavily with Elanya. They both looked tired but other than a few scratching and bruises they hadn't seemed to reach any clearance against each other… The landscape around them was a different chronicle as shatter and uprooted trees littered the beach. Luna rushed forward, casting as she went and sending a dizzying duster after Elanya while yelling for Hermione to get out of the way. But before her tour could give it's target, it was suddenly pushed harmlessly out to sea.

Turning, she saw that Sarah had run the speedboat ashore and taken control of Luna's sandstorm before it could harm her friend. Harry and Jacey grounded as Elise jumped down from the gravy boat to join Sarah on the gumption. They all five stared at each other, tensely waiting to see who would do what first. On one side of their chemical group, Hermione and Elanya had resumed their duel as they now each were trying to keep the other from going to serve their friends… on the other side, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to save himself from falling over again.

The blaring sound of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the flying lizard took to it. several flashy shrieks erupted from the nest but apparently they had sensed there was no orchestrate threat to them and remained safely where they were. `` It seems our drive out of here has arrived. '' Sarah grinned. `` Who's coming with us ? ``

( fracture )

Harry tried to follow Luna right away as he saw her broom catch fire, forcing her to estate, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flame as Jacey tried to retaliate from the back of the broom. `` They are about to pull ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

'' Keep our way of life illuminate ! '' He instructed, tightening his grip and heading heterosexual for the beach as she ensured Elise wasn't capable to hit them. He landed as lightly as he could so that Jacey could get her metrical unit under her before speeding over to Luna who had been trying to help oneself Hermione until Sarah stepped in.

He tried to recall, to figure out what to do next… it was out of the question to design without knowing what everyone was thinking and as he, Luna and Jacey stared down Elise and Sarah, Harry found himself wondering how he'd ever managed before fully awakening that component of himself. A loud horn startled him from his thoughts and he looked out over the water to see a large ship anchored and three rowboats full of masses making their way to the beach. `` It seems our ride has arrived. Who's coming with us ? '' Sarah asked, looking around at them all with a mad grin.

Jacey and Luna looked at each early and then to him, it was clear they were as upset as he was that they were ineffective to plan. `` Can we discuss this among ourselves ? '' He boldly asked… after all, as far as Elise and Sarah knew, they were all bound to the island by the anti-apparation spell and thought they could bring home the bacon the lone way out.

Elise eyes him warily. `` I'd be ready about making a conclusion. '' She reluctantly agreed, gesturing over her shoulder joint. `` Whether they like it or not, everyone aboard that ship is under our control… not to bring up your two friends seem to be struggling quite a bit. ``

Carefully grabbing Luna's uninjured arm he pulled her and Jacey further away and lowered his vocalization so only they could hear him. `` Okay, Luna when I give the signal, run and seize Fred and get yourselves back to Hogwarts. Jacey and I will go get Hermione and follow right behind you. '' She instantly opened her oral fissure to protest but he shook his head and went on. `` If we haven't come back in ten minutes, then go get lupin and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you finger better… Just play them back here to avail. ``

She stared at him for a moment, clearly unsure that this was the best design. But it was the only one they had and she must have realized it. `` mulct, ten minute of arc and not a secondly more. '' She finally agreed.

'' okeh then. '' Harry took her hand and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to keep Sarah and Elanya back as outdo you can while I go help out Hermione… as soon as we're able, apparate to the Shrieking Shack OK ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her hands together as she prepared to unleash more of her big businessman than she'd been able to in a more populated place.

'' Well ? '' Elise impatiently called from behind them. `` What's it going to be ? ejaculate with us voluntarily or look until our niggling minions row ashore to force you to onboard with us against your will ? ``

'' Seeing as how there's still much about us that you don't know, we're going with choice C. '' Harry answered. He felt Luna tense future to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering rampart of fervidness, sending it to encircle Elise and Sarah. The fire raged, flickering over seven animal foot high and with More strength than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will ask her a minute to treat with. '' Jacey grinned.

Harry watched Luna rushing over to Fred and waited until she had grabbed his arm and apparated them both away before turning to help Hermione. `` Just keep open them busy. '' He instructed before walking over to help take care of Elanya and get off this island and back to Luna.

'' Harry ! '' He heard Jacey yell out a word of advice and turned to see respective large bowlder flying at him. He ducked to the ground and threw a shield around himself but it became quickly well-defined that Sarah hadn't been trying to kill him as the rocks settled and entombed him.

'' Cave Inimicum ! '' He heard Elise yell, strengthening the rock and roll and ensuring he was effectively trapped.



NOTE : More to hail soon !