Having spent the entire day avoiding all of his friends, Ron decided to bound off dinner completely. Ignoring his rumbling tummy, he changed out of his school robes and into jeans and a sweatshirt before collapsing across his bed and staring angrily at the ceiling. Life wasn't fair… it was a concept he'd been confronted with over and over, he didn't understand why it continued to surprise him. He was tired of being offered the promise of felicity only to deliver it ripped away. okay, so maybe he'd never had a chance with Hermione… but Luna had been his, they'd been in honey and either one or both of them had ruined it. But he'd wanted to clean up the spell after, she was the one who'd been so convinced it was over. And this year- at one detail he'd thought Parvati was just the distraction he'd needed, that he could produce closer with her and cause 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 regretful, Parvati had been taken away and was now suffering who knew what fate because he hadn't been open-eyed to her and her needs as he should have been. After all, he'd agreed to begin dating her before he even knew Jacey existed, Anapurna should possess been his first concern.

Ron slammed his fists down on the bed, tired of feeling guilty and mad and frustrated. Maybe he needed a admirer right now after all, mortal to talk to and help get some of this off his chest. Harry had claimed to want to listen… but that had been while he'd come to defend Luna's award. 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 sharp rap on his door and quickly strengthened the buckler around his creative thinker, figuring Harry had somehow picked up on his thoughts and was now coming to hash things out. Taking a trench breath in preparation, he got up and went to the door ready to secern 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 invisibility cloak, she walked properly past him into his room and turned to him with a dazzling smile. `` Are you not glad to see me ? ``

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

'' Turns out my commercial enterprise does not ingest me as far from the castle as I had thought. I was having the opportunity to come see you tonight and so I took it. '' She answered, suddenly having trouble meeting his regard. `` 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 discover that Harry had sent her to see him.

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

'' I don't want to hear it. '' He quickly shook his head and squeezed her hand. `` I've been over it and over it in my capitulum for the finally two years, 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 live anymore unless you can severalise 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.

'' Well, uh… I mean, um… ''

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

'' Am I dreaming ? '' He asked breathlessly, ineffectual 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.

Feeling confident, Ron leaned in and fully captured her brim. His boldness was instantly rewarded as she returned the kiss, wrapping her blazon around his neck opening to weight-lift herself against him. And then the rug 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 limb around herself. `` I just wanted to tell you, to let you know that I am not forgetting you. ``

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

Her helping hand lingered over his as she took it from him. `` Just remember, if you are needing to blab out to someone, I am not far… If you call out to me- '' She reached out and tapped her digit against his brow before ruffling his whisker. `` -I will most probable 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 psyche. `` It would not be wise I think. '' She flung the cloak around herself so that only her head teacher remained visible. `` Until succeeding time, I hope you think well of me. ``

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

( BREAK )

'' I feel like the pip shielder ever. '' Lupin sighed as he led the way through the Grant Wood. `` I mean I've been legally bound to see to it your well-being- '' He turned to search at Dragon, `` -and Harry your parents are counting on me to help look after you, yet here we all are on a midnight perambulation through the Forbidden forest to toss of a body… I can't sustain James and Lily from finding out obviously, but not a Bible of this gets back to Tonks, got it ? '' He asked very seriously.

Draco shared an amused smiling with Potter as both boys agreed to keep Tonks in the dark. Lupin led them deep into the woodwind instrument, letting the son handle the project of floating Tristan along as the man had claimed it to be their jam to make clean up, he was simply there to see that they did it right. The corpse was hidden under Draco's invisibility cloak as Potter had leant his to Jacey, but the further they went, the more difficulty they were having in maintaining the while to hold it in the air. `` Haven't we gone far enough ? '' He asked, not wanting to have to actually carry Tristan's body.

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

Letting the remains driblet to the ground, he went with ceramist to help gather enough Sir Henry Wood for the project ahead of them. While they did that, lupine began making a ring of stones around Tristan, instructing the boys to cover the vampire completely with the wood. When they were finished, Draco wiped the sweat from his forehead and removed his pelage despite the frozen temperature.

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

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

Both boys watched with a sorting of twisted fascination as he bent down and moved the sticks away from Tristram's head and pulled the lamia's oral cavity open while ignoring the notched pieces of wood still sticking out of his oculus. Picking up one of the pieces of Ash adjacent to him, Lupin turned away before solidly jamming it down Tristan's throat. `` We have to be trusted to get the fire down inside him too. '' He said, quickly covering the drumhead back up. `` And now we light it. ``

All three pointed their wands and stepped back as the pile of wood exploded within the Lucy Stone Mexican valium. This was the last form of their dark human action and genus Draco was glad that Ginny had chosen to conform to Luna's leash and stay put behind. He didn't even really want to be a witness to this, it was better that one of them have the art object of mind to never have to relive this present moment. Tristan's skin seemed to sizzle and almost scream as the Ash wood burned down. Lupin had of course been right about how the wood would weaken the lamia's natural defenses… but they stayed until there was nix before them but a glowing pile of embers, just to be sure.

( fracture )

Fred woke up to his mother pounding on his door. Groaning in displeasure, he buried his mind under the pillow and willed her to go away… unfortunately no one's will was as strong as mollie's. `` Come on Fred, get up ! '' She called as she continued to love away on the door.

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

'' And a good break of the day to you too, though it's nearly lunch sentence. '' She returned. `` You really should get to bed earlier lamb. ``

'' I'll workplace on that. '' He said sarcastically as he rubbed his face and yawned. In all honesty, he never would hold fallen asleep if his trunk hadn't just given up and passed out on him sometime in the early morning hours. But since he had gone to catch some Z's, he was irritate with her for ruining it. `` Was there something you wanted ? ``

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

'' okey, I'll be right down. '' He promised, suddenly wide awake as a waving of nervous nausea washed over him. Closing the threshold on her, he tore open the envelope but the greenback inside wasn't helpful- it was simply a postulation that he amount to the store as soon as possible. That wasn't like Lee at all, if there was a problem he wasn't afraid to kvetch about it in full moon detail.

Throwing the useless notation aside, he rushed to get dressed and brush his dentition, simply running his finger's breadth through his tomentum as he hurried down the stairs. Grabbing his coat and kissing his mother goodbye, he left the house and climbed into the waiting ministry car. It took every ounce of will power he had not to just apparate from the backseat to the store, but not knowing what awaited him he knew it was better to arrive with an actual Auror.

They parked outside the Leaky caldron and hurried through to Diagon Alley, trying to race without being noticeable as they made their way to the depot. Fred was surprised to get it closed up, with the refinement drawn and the front door locked. `` Hey, add up in there with me, okay ? '' Fred asked the sentry go, pulling out both his baton and his keys.

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

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

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

He rushed over, entering the office to determine Lee spread out on the floor and bleeding from a wound on his heading. kneeling beside him, Fred was able to see that his ally was still breathing. `` He's alive. '' He assured the guard who was officious searching the closet for enemies.

'' okay, practice atmospheric pressure to his combat injury. '' The man replied, moving to the threshold. `` 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 oppose, she drew her baton and cursed the man to decease. `` hi Fred. '' She turned her wand on him as he pointed his at her.

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

'' I never was very effective at the Imperious curse word, and he fought against it the all prison term. '' She shook her head regretfully. `` I mean I got him to write the note and paw it off, but he finally broke free of my influence. I certainly didn't want to kill one of your champion but I had to shut him up somehow. Don't worry, it's just a nasty jut on the mind. ``

'' You had no squeamishness 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 frigidity person. ``

'' Perhaps. '' She shrugged again. `` Perhaps I just take to find the right positivistic influence. ``

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

'' You could be right… time will secernate. '' She smiled coyly. `` Don't vexation, individual will get along along to houseclean up my mess after we leave. Come on, I'm only giving us an hr. ``

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

'' We're going to your vault in the bank and then I'm giving us a limit of one hour to shop for all the wearing apparel and supply we'll pauperism 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 twenty-four hour period she'd promised.

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

'' What are you talking about ? What normal did I breach ? '' He asked desperately.

'' You told people about all of this… you involved Hermione Granger and so now the dominion have changed. We are leaving today Fred and you will recreate the game correctly from now on or she will serve the punishment. ``

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

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

'' substance ? ``

'' I'm sure Harry and Luna informed you of the tripper 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 individual else to taking a paseo off the top of the highest column at Hogwarts. It doesn't matter how guarded Hermione granger is, she can't stay awake forever. ``

Fred glared at her as his genius worked overtime trying to picture a way out of this, or at best, a way to discourage Hermione and perhaps have Luna or Harry try to avail protect her judgement while she slept. Feeling the weight of the compact in his pocket, he wondered how long it would be until he could come up the sentence to use it.

'' I'll choose your silence as begrudging acceptance. '' Elanya said, offering him a falsely sweet smile. `` And before you get those bicycle turning too fast, I won't be giving you the opportunity to warn your little girlfriend or your special friends about any of this. We've thinking of everything and neither Harry nor Luna will be given the chance to avail. '' It was almost as if she could read his intellect though he knew that wasn't the case, she was simply being thorough in explaining the hopelessness of his situation. Using extreme will, Fred was able to celebrate from reaching in his pocket and grabbing the covenant to gain a sense of comfort. Instead he used the fact that Luna was already helping and could therefore imply Harry to calm himself.

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

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

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

'' Give me your baton. '' She demanded, holding out her hired man. In the only pocket-sized act of defiance he could cope, Fred threw it at her feet instead. She smirked with entertainment as she bent to think it, putting both wands in her purse. `` There's just one more thing. '' She pulled out a unusual looking device with long ton of lighting and gauges.

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

'' Just relax and bandstand still. '' She ordered, waving the thing over him from his nous to his feet. It suddenly started lighting up and beeping like crazy as she moved it over his pocket. `` You have a communication gimmick. '' 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 reason he'd so readily agreed to go with her, figuring he'd be capable to use it at some point and alert the others to his predicament.

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

She really had won, without giving him a way to warn Hermione, Ron and Ginny, she had his stark obeisance and she knew it. Reluctantly he pulled the compact from his pocket and placed it on the desk. Elanya picked up the trash paperweight, leaving Fred to determine as she smashed the covenant into musical composition. `` That's seven age bad lot. '' He said numbly.

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

　

　

musical note : Uh oh… now what's Fred going to do ? outride tuned for more chapters to find out out ...
Chapter 50 : Searching for the doomed

A/N : Well, so lots for my hope to have got the characters out of Hogwarts by chapter 50 J So much to trade with here so go ahead, Read, reassessment and Enjoy !

　

Hermione had woken with an uneasy feeling in the pit of her tummy. By the end of her last socio-economic class the opinion had tripled and she was now sick with business concern, having been unable to pass on Fred all day. `` Hey, are you okay ? '' Harry asked quietly as they walked back to their dormitory together.

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

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

'' Sorry. '' She loosened her hold and felt him flex his fingers. They'd been at each early's side all day whenever they were in populace, Harry had apparently decided to once more give in to her and Luna with few to no motion. Admittedly his mien at her side of meat was the solely thing to kick in her comfort all day and she was grateful for it.

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

'' Well- '' Fear and vexation overwhelmed her and she suddenly felt the need to confess everything if it would help Fred. But just as she was about to spill it all, she felt her sac mature warm and nearly collapsed in substitute. `` I'll narrate you about it later. '' She said quickly before rushing off to her room to be alone.

Nearly dropping the compact as she fumbled to pull it out of her pocket, she eagerly flipped it open only to have her marrow drop painfully to her stomach. `` Hermione ? '' Lee stared back at her, though his reflection was fragmented as if the mirror had been broken. `` Oh good, I fixed it ! '' He sighed in relief as he caught plenty of her on his side.

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

'' I don't know ! '' Lee cried out in frustration. `` I don't remember anything about today before waking up with a splitting head ache. '' He pointed to where his head word was now bandaged. `` No one was here, nothing was missing… but I found the compact car on the storey 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 billet earlier asking him to occur to the depot and that the ministry guard was supposed to take in brought him… I don't recall any of that. '' Lee seemed beyond disquieted and finis to tears.

'' individual must have used a spell and wiped your retentivity. '' She shook her read/write head, not knowing how to console him when she was so close to panicking herself.

'' Probably, it's what I figured as well. But I didn't want molly to lead off worrying and wind up having Arthur send the whole Auror team out. It took everything I had to convince her that Fred stopped to beak something up and would be here any minute… So then I tried for the last hour to fix this stupid compact to see if maybe Fred went up there to see you again, but that's obviously not the instance ... ''

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

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

'' I don't have clip to explain now, we have to go quickly. '' Her judgment was racing a million miles a minute. `` Arthur and molly can't know yet… that will only help oneself the girls'program. I need you to convince them that Fred went away for some sort of business sector head trip for the store, tell them you're going with him so maybe they'll worry less. ``

'' wellspring, I guess I could disguise my voice and write a talking letter to them pretending to be Fred. '' He suggested, always eager to go division of their serious escapade just like the former boys. `` He's O.K., isn't he ? ``

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

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

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

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

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

( BREAK )

'' I can't stand it anymore ! '' Ginny shouted, throwing her chronicle of magic trick Christian Bible across the room. `` It's just sooo very tedious. '' She flung herself back on the bed and grabbed the pillow to underwrite her face as she screamed her frustration into it.

'' Is this a pattern function of your prep process ? Because we may have to set about studying alone. '' Draco teased, ignoring her dramatics and returning to his Potions essay.

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

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

Knocking at the door interrupted their 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 reasons. '' He laughed, getting up to reply. He was utterly surprised to find drake standing there.

'' how-do-you-do, sorry to interrupt but I'm here on school business organization. As acting Head of Slytherin sign I've come to request your presence in the Headmaster's agency. '' Drake smiled apologetically.

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

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

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

Drake grinned wider. `` I'm certain whatever's going on, there would be no remonstration to Miss Weasley coming along for documentation. ``

'' Very officious. '' Ginny approved teasingly.

'' Yes, I do believe after a few 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 palpate nervous… what could they possibly want to see him about ? Had the schoolmaster somehow found out about Tristram ? Was Ilium trying to frame him for Parvati's disappearing ? Several idea floated around in his drumhead, none of which were commodity. In fact, he'd never in his life history been called to up there to be given in effect news. At the gargoyle, Sir Francis Drake gestured for them to go up first and as they climbed onto the stairs Draco squeezed Ginny's hand in tense anticipation.

Dumbledore was in the summons of handing a letter off to Fawkes as they entered the part and he turned to them with a grim smile. `` well, none of you ever seem to be alone anymore. hullo 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 bookman. Draco felt almost honored to now be considered one of them. `` Roscoe, I need you to lend Professor Trelawney here as she is rather skilled at scrying. ``

'' Who are you trying to rule ? '' Draco blurted out. He knew all about the accomplishment of scrying… it was something Narcissa had mastered and was proud to display. In fact, he knew she had been the one to help oneself Lucius situate several people including Julian the Apostate Heath.

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

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

'' Since the quibbler clause was released, Lucius has been turned away from the Death feeder and Arthur has had various people watching him. Yesterday daybreak he managed to luxate 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 come. He had to adjudicate whether or not to completely twist his back on his father in order to help oneself the people who had so helped him. Now he had to calculate out just how a great deal he'd changed, what his lesson are from what they were, and whether he could fully give himself over and cut all linkup to the two people who had given him animation. `` I don't know. '' He said at survive, sinking back down into the president and feeling horribly confused.

'' I see. '' Dumbledore nodded. `` I'm aware of what I'm request of you and how unfair it is to ask a shaver to completely plow on their parents. I am sorry for it and only my and Arthur's despair drove us to make up one's mind to come to you ... But you by no means have to answer and I assure you we won't think LE of you for it. I want you to be fully aware that you have a option 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 estimate him if he chose to persist still when he could birth helped ? And how could he not be judged for completely turning on his family ? There was no easy 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 hoi polloi. Recalling his premature way of aliveness, he knew Dumbledore and the others weren't aware of the true statement depth of his don's evil ruthlessness. Draco had seen Lucius commit many sins without any sign of remorse, what could he be doing out there now that he'd been outcast by the dying Eaters and left on his own ? Knowing what the man was capable of when he was in control, genus Draco hated to think what he was open of when desperate. `` okey, give way me a flight feather and parchment and I'll write down the location of every secure home I know about and any other berth he might go. ``

Dumbledore made no move to sate his request, instead continuing to look on in business concern. `` Are you sure ? ``

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

'' And with that sentiment, I would care you to know 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 blame for your begetter's action mechanism, no one would hold it against you if you did feel the motivation to maintain some shape of loyalty to him as your parent. ``

Draco shook his headway. `` No, I've decided. '' He firmly insisted. It took a few instant to publish down everything he knew and by the time he finished Drake was back with prof Trelawney. Having no desire to witness them attempt to turn up 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 pass on his shoulder as they walked.

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

'' I'm sure given the luck, Harry would agree to that. ``

'' Of course he would, James I and Lily are aught like Lucius and Narcissa. ``

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

'' With my luck, I would birth gone to be raised by Bellatrix. '' He joked. `` I guess ceramist 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 don completely… So, are you okay ? '' She asked again, bringing the conversation back to her original question.

'' You'd take in a safe reporter. ``

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

'' I don't know how I am. '' He finally answered with a threatening suspiration. `` 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 year. '' Ginny squeezed his arm and kissed his shoulder joint. `` There's no very way to be a honorable child to a bad parent. ``

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

'' And yet he never tried to strike you, never tried to show why he was worthy 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 kill you already, he doesn't deserve your protection. ``

'' You tried to kill me too. '' Dragon pointed out, feeling the sudden irrational number pauperization to guard his father.

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

'' Yeah, okay it was a dullard thing to say. '' He admitted, stopping in the Charles Francis Hall outside the uncouth 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 aim her hands on either face of his face. `` You're just a little messed up in here right now. '' She playfully shook his head. `` It'll ripe itself out. ``

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

( BREAK )

'' discovery anything interesting yet ? '' Luna asked as she pushed the files to the end of the bed and got to her feet, 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 century. '' Harry took off his meth and rubbed his center, shoving his Indian file away as well. `` I had foolishly thought all the files from the draftsman marked ‘ Harry Potter'would be about me, but they actually go all the way back to Lyraline Elderwood… though I will admit, there's to a greater extent particular 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 effective thing, we should learn everything we can about our ancestors so we don't wind up repeating their misunderstanding. ``

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

'' well, no one's blood is all pure, right ? Coven descendant or not, we are all still homo. '' She grinned. And then a sudden race of affright flooded her, forcing her to once to a greater extent sit or risk falling over from the force.

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

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

Sure enough, Hermione began to frantically knock at the room access and Harry rushed over to let her in. She entered in a shock, her eyes all-inclusive with fear and desperation. Not caring whether Harry was in the room, she rushed over to Luna and quickly told her everything about Lee contacting her and her worry that Elanya had forced Fred to pass on early.

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

'' Not exactly. It's more like he's been blackmailed into leaving. '' Luna replied, attempting to remain calm. Knowing what Hermione wanted from her, she prepared her psyche and left it to the early 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 bear been left in the dark about this. But Luna could see that he was fighting the urge to extract his anger, knowing Hermione still had no idea about Tristan and therefore he had no room to judge.

'' Which I was hoping Luna could facilitate 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 cobbler's last few solar day because my mind tactile property so tired. '' She watched Hermione's expression fall and quickly turned to Harry. `` Maybe you could facilitate me ? ``

'' Are you sure that's a sound idea ? I've drained myself completely before and it doesn't tactile property in effect. '' He asked uncertainly, as worried as she was that she could damage herself.

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

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

Luna reached out to take his hand as he and Hermione sat with her on the bed. Closing her heart, she cleared her nous of everything but Fred and attempted to force the connexion. She could experience Harry with her, wrapping his consciousness protectively around hers and adding his own strong point, which had completely regenerated since his fight with Tristan.

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

beginning came an image of Hermione, growing great as it zoomed toward her, focusing in on the girl's centre 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 drops of flesh that turned to rain…

Fred was in the rain, quickly trying to erect a rather average 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 undefended the sky…

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

The pain was swift and sudden and seemed to come from oceanic abyss inside her mind. The next affair Luna knew, she could feel Harry shaking her as he and Hermione called out, telling her to come alive up. Letting her oculus flutter open, she stared up at them as they looked down at her in concern. `` 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 head 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 focused on helping Fred now that she was assured that Luna was somewhat alright. preferably than essay to explain, Luna told Harry to replay it all for Hermione to see. She would have done it herself, but she was too fag and her mind literally felt fried out. Putting a helping hand to her question, 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 locating. '' Harry suggested, getting up to pelt a glass of water from the hurler on his chest. He came back and handed it to Luna though she hadn't mentioned how parched her pharynx suddenly was. But as he went back to pour a looking glass for himself, she realized he knew because her ailments were affecting him… This wasn't good, they had to picture out a way to go on themselves divided when necessary.

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

'' Ah yes, the covenant you and Fred used behind my back. '' Harry teased.

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

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

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

'' What's going on ? ! '' Willem's delirious voice demanded.

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

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

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

Luna saw Hermione shake and knew the other miss had probably come to the Lapp finis she had. `` I'm pretty sure that's telling us how they got Fred to cooperate… '' She said quietly.

'' Yeah, they threatened to get Sarah do her stupe stellar projection thing to invade me and make me do who knows what. '' Hermione added bitterly.

'' We won't let that befall. '' Harry assured her.

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

'' If that's what it takes. '' He insisted. `` In the bastardly sentence we can look up the bloom, maybe even ask professor Sprout. ``

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

Harry nodded and went to his desk to find the closed chain. `` We can call them both at the same prison term. '' He said excitedly.

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

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

'' Yes. Why ? '' He demanded.

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

'' But President Arthur has Mad-eye looking after all the track record and files. '' Harry reminded her.

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

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

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

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

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

'' You do look rather picket. '' Hermione agreed, leaning in to look at her better. `` Maybe we should go to another room, let you stay 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 unsealed but she made it crystallise that he wouldn't be able to change her mind. `` Okay, let's hope they can tell us something. '' He put on the doughnut and closed his middle to digest as Hermione reached out to course her own DOE into the ring. Luna attempted to close up herself off from them, not wanting her own limited memory of Energy to be accidentally tapped. She could feel Harry also attempting to harbor off from her and she hoped his Split focus wouldn't touch on his power to use the ring.

( BREAK )

Fred watched the ocean waves wreck against the boat as it sliced through the piss toward the sun setting on the horizon. It would take in been an dumbfound experience had he been there under different circumstances, but when he'd woken that morn he had no idea a boat ride into the Atlantic was in his future. He sighed and leaned on the rail, debating what chances he and his friends would make if he just flung himself overboard.

'' You don't have to see so sad and defeated. '' Elanya remarked from beside him. She hadn't let him out of her sight since they'd gone to discharge his bank score and go along on a frenetic shopping spree. He hadn't chosen to verbalise to her since they'd secured passage on this sauceboat. `` You could just revel your surroundings. It is quite peaceable out here. '' She went on, trying to goad him into conversation.

Instead he continued to ignore her and moved further along the deck, but she followed wherever he went. `` seminal fluid on Fred… I half agreed with your architectural plan. Castellumshire is no piazza for us, but there are plenty of small unmapped islands there that will suit us just ticket. ``

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

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

'' Now that you've completely lop my communication to my ally, how can I trust that you'll restrain your word and not let Sarah or your spy or anyone else hurt them ? '' He asked.

'' My Son isn't soundly enough ? '' Elanya smiled, leaning her backrest against the rail so she could face him. He had the sudden desire to lunge forward and stuff her, to make her melt 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 suffer planned for him attempting to get rid of her.

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

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

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

'' That I don't want to pain anyone now that Edmund is gone. Of course of action I will if I have to… I'd just really rather the situation didn't come up, which is why I'm relieved that you've decided to play so nicely. '' She smiled again, this time with a bit of teasing coyness. `` You must really love your buddy and sister… and this Hermione must be pretty significant too. ``

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

'' That I want nothing to do with Voldemort or his plan to become us immortal, and that Sarah and Elise were actually interested… not in Voldemort thinker you, but in the vampire jinx. ``

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

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

'' But miss, it's mighty laborious to flag soul down if you haven't already arranged a woof up. '' The crew member protested.

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

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

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

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

Within a half an hr, they had been rowed ashore and left all alone with the many things she had made him buy for this niggling excursion. `` Great, it looks like rain. '' Fred muttered as the dark clouds rolled in with the coming night. Brief flashes of lighting tore through the sky as ripples of nose drops roared overhead.

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

( BREAK )

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

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

Harry tried to mean the mental image to him, but apparently his mogul was unable to bridge the gap between the living and the drained. He, Luna and Hermione attempted to key out the take heyday from Luna's vision. `` Does any of that strait conversant ? '' He asked when they were done.

Neville appeared thoughtful. `` You might require to repeat chit, but they sound like Colorsplosions… they're flush that sorting of explode in vividness during the day when they bloom and then shrink away at night. I know they're rare, I just can't think 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 take in surely you find Fred as soon as potential, 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 phonation weakly and strained. Harry turned to her in business, ignoring the discomfort of wearing the ring to sharpen in on her. Inside her head was dark and shady, as if someone had turned off the lights… though he could still see sparks in the backrest, letting him know she hadn't fried herself out completely.

'' Just, find a way for me to sing to him when you help him square away all this out okay ? '' George insisted, clearly worried for his twin.

'' We will. '' Harry promised. They said their goodbyes and the two spectral figures of their lost friends disappeared. He went over to his desk to put the ring away, already disliking the associate drag it had on him and his vitality vibrations.

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

'' I just find a little 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 lease a step before her legs buckled, forcing Hermione to pass on out and catch her. He rushed over to help get Luna back onto the bed, sitting beside her and running his very much tank hand over her heated forehead.

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

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

'' I'm sorry for pushing you to give birth those visual modality. '' She said quietly, clearly feeling hangdog for the position Luna was now in.

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

'' I'll be good 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 enshroud the large amount of worry he felt.

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

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

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

'' Yeah, okay. Too bad they worked a petty too hard. Some solid food and quietus 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 smell. '' He told her, not wanting her to have it off that he was in fact going through a lot of the same symptoms she was… to the point where it almost felt as if he'd been the one to debilitate his power and overstrain his energy output.

'' This isn't good… we have to find out a way to be dissever sometimes. '' She said through a aloud yawn.

'' Yes we do. '' He agreed. Harry knew he did life-threatening things far more often than she did and that due to his desire for victory, he got hurt a lot. The survive thing he wanted was for Luna to suffer every time soul challenged him, to share his pain every clip he did something stupid. 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 vestige of Tristan, she took a deep breathing space and picked up Harry's invisibleness cloak, nervously settling it around herself. Ron had called out and asked her to occur see him just before dinner, and she was anxious about what she would say. The guiltiness was eating her alive, she knew she had to recite him about Parvati… and how she had not warned anyone in meter to hold on the girl's fate. It would not be easy, but it had to be done and Harry had agreed to let her be the one to recite Ron everything about his missing girlfriend.

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

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

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

'' Excuse me ? The woods ? ``

'' I want to go looking for Parvati. '' Ron sighed and went to look out his window. `` I know Dumbledore has sent a lot of people out there, all with beasts and gadgets meant to find hoi polloi. 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 look, he has had people scrying, he has the beasts of the forest keeping an eye out… there is zip more that can be done. ``

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

'' I know why their exploit to situate her have failed. '' Jacey looked away, unable to meet his regard. `` It is because all of their drive are spent attempting to locate a human, which Annapurna no longer is. ``

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

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

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

She shook her headway and began her floor, telling him everything that involved Parvati while leaving out the share 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 hard, waiting to see what would happen.

'' Better safe than sorry ! '' He shouted, turning to present her again. `` I'm so run down of all this silence ! search what's happened now because of it ! ``

'' I did not want to impeach without substantiation ! '' 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 look ? ``

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

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

'' It will not be well-heeled. '' She got up and went to sit beside him, placing a deal on his knee in comfort. `` But just because she is a vampire does not mean she is wish Tristan or Ilium. 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 press them is stronger, she will be able-bodied to overcome… just like Dragon and his Lord. ``

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

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

'' I guess the initiative thing we have to do is regain her… until then it's probably best that we continue to let her house think she's only missing. '' He lamented.

'' Probably. '' She agreed, moving closer and putting her arm around his shoulders, wanting to stimulate him palpate better.

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

'' What ? ``

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

'' No one can know what she is thinking. '' Jacey replied uneasily as certain thoughts of his became clearer in her mind. `` 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 subdivision, waiting for an explanation.

'' commencement of all, stay out of my psyche ! '' 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 attention to Parvati or been honest with her about how I really felt. ``

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

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

Without warning, she grabbed his face and pressed her sassing to his, giving into what they both wanted. At first he was astonished, but he quickly overcame it and wrapped his arms tightly around her to bring back the kiss with an equal depth of passion. He walked forward until she felt the edge of the bed against her pegleg. Letting her knees collapse she fell back, pulling him along with her. It had been so long since she had experienced any variety of intimacy and even tenacious since she had done so with somebody who craved her as much as she craved them. And oh how she wanted Ron… She had no explanation as to why he had so captivated her but he had, and to now feel his sassing on her skin, the free weight of him as he hovered over her, and the high temperature of his desire… it was everything she'd thought it would be and Sir Thomas More. She had wanted this ever since she'd laid eyes on him and had come close to giving in close night. Her own guilt had stopped her then, as his seemed to break him now.

'' Wait. '' Ron said in a strangled 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 men through his hair. `` I just can't let myself be happy while Annapurna 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 leave. It will be easier for us both I think. '' Jacey suggested, moving to climb off the bed.

'' volition you delay ? '' He asked, his centre wide-cut and aspirant. `` Will you just lay here and sleep next to me so I won't feel so alone ? ``

She studied him carefully before giving in. `` okeh, I do not need to be alone either. But I must leave very early in the morn. ``

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

He turned out the Light Within and lay back, both of them left staring at the ceiling as uneasy tensity descended on them. Taking the opening move, she turned to Ron and wrapped her arm around him, resting her heading on his shoulder joint. She smiled in the dark as he responded, placing his own arms securely around her and pulling her close. For the first clip in her life, Jacey felt safe… that there was someone who could give care for her Sir Thomas More than they cared for themselves. It was a spirit he was bringing out in her that she was beginning to care for and as she snuggled in closer to him, she knew she would do anything to keep it.

( BREAK )

After to a greater extent than a calendar week had passed, Hermione felt like she was at the end of her R-2. After a disappointing conversation with Professor Sprout, she'd learned that Colorsplosions were so rare they were thought to be out. But Luna was certain of what she'd seen and Neville had been moderately sure of what they'd described. Hermione had spent every free mo in the library trying to find out anything about the exotic flowers but so far her search had yielded zip. Just as she thought she was going to recede her idea, she decided to agitate 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 initiative 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 questions. Now all she had to do was hold back for the palace to shut down for the Nox. Locked away in her room, she pulled out the concordat to check in with Lee for the millionth time. `` No, we haven't found anything interesting yet ! '' He said right away, clearly agitated with her constant nagging.

She'd been sword lily to acquire he and Willem had been able to mouse into the ministry and abscond with the essential files. But that had been several years ago and she knew had she been the one in possession of those written document, she would have been able to have gone through them quite a few times by now. `` Why not ? '' She demanded.

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

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

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

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

'' Not so good. Turns out the ministry didn't actually know too practically about Jayalina Delamora… we can't even find her parents names. '' Lee answered in frustration. `` But he's having President Arthur see what he can do about helping expand the search past our ministry's information. Willem told him that he wants to try and see any phratry he may own and thankfully Arthur hasn't questioned his need too much. ``

'' We have to regain them. '' She insisted. `` If Jayalina really did have her parents keeping Elanya condom, 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 meantime, give me a few 60 minutes of peace and I might actually make headway into all of this information… trust 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 bout threatening to flow. `` It's just that it's been a week 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 hold vision yet ? ``

'' She's been trying but every time she does, she gets a terrible headache… I hope I didn't break her or anything by pushing her so a lot last week. '' Hermione was actually quite worried about Luna and feeling very shamed for letting the girl force herself that terminal time when she'd already looked so eat. And worse, they still hadn't been able-bodied to cipher out the visual sensation she'd clearly hurt herself to suffer for them. `` She has said she's been having dreaming about Fred and that so far she believes he's O.K.. ``

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

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

'' testament do. '' He promised.

They ended their communication, leaving her with nothing to do except postponement. When she finally felt it was fourth dimension, the clock had already struck midnight. Carefully wrapping Draco's cloak around herself, Hermione crept through the common way and out into the hall. She tried not to make a unmarried noise as she made her way to the library, not wanting to alert Filtch, his cat Mrs Norris, the ghost or anyone else who may be awake and also wandering the hallway. She'd never felt so queasy before, sneaking out with one of her Quaker 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 push aside her discomfort… being surreptitious seemed to be the merely way to accomplish anything these days, it had certainly worked for Elanya, Sarah and Elise.

At last she came to the subroutine library doors and she hoped Madame Pince hadn't locked them for the night. She let out a Brobdingnagian sigh of rilievo when she reached out and pulled, finding the door had easily opened. Moving over to the librarian's desk, Hermione grabbed the paint and a diminished lantern before rushing over to the restricted subdivision. She unlocked the gate and with as petty noise as possible, began making her way through the stacks in search of what she wanted. Stopping to catch a text on lost and uncharted islands, she quickly moved on to the metaphysical section.

The Advanced Art of Astral Projection. It was the first-class honours degree deed to take hold of her eye and she instantly grabbed the leger, figuring she could compute out the basics of something she had piddling clip to memorise. Besides, she'd always found it easier to find out things from a harder position than to be talked down to during the wanton steps. Banned human activity of Astral jutting. Hermione grabbed that Good Book too, figuring a few of the tricks 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 able to see that she was still alone, her furiously beating heart could no longer remain firm the paranoia that comes from breaking so many formula. Tucking all three books under her arm, she hurried to lock the gate and render the key before rushing back to her room. She had a lot of reading to do and she wanted to learn as fast as possible… She wanted to be able to do everything Sarah was capable of doing and while it may consume taken the womanhood years to master her skills, Hermione was certain she could achieve a certain level of mastery within daytime. Maybe she was being overconfident in her news but she didn't care. They were always saying she was the smartness one, in Luna's sight even Elanya and Sarah had said so… Now it was fourth dimension she prove it.

more than than learning how to protect her own mind from Sarah's invasion, she wanted to learn how to leave her soundbox and travelling to other seat 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 stellar projection was a portion of it, she had high school hopes that she could pull it off. Now it was just a matter of how quickly she could get through and apply the fabric covered in those books. Putting aside the one on islands until tomorrow, Hermione picked up The Advanced Art of Astral Projection and began reading, aegir to begin learning the desired skill.

( BREAK )

'' I don't want to go. '' Harry turned and buried his headland under his pillow. He and Luna had been up late last night going through the ministry documents as they were the exclusively thing able to distract her from the fact that she hadn't been able-bodied to accept a visual sensation since draining herself out live workweek. Despite the fact that they'd figured out two of the three remaining coven members, he'd barely been able to keep his heart open by the end and the last thing he wanted to do so very early the succeeding morning was get up and get ready to go to Hogsmeade.

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

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

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

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

'' I prefer tough erotic love. '' Luna smiled.

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

He had just finished tying his shoe when individual came knocking on his door. `` Harry ? '' He heard Ron song through the threshold. While they'd all just sorting of decided to get along, no one had yet attempted to pass water things right after the things he'd said and the way he'd been acting… And Harry was of the judgment that they wouldn't be able to sort things out while Parvati was still missing. Ron had been going out of his way to forefend his friends- except for Jacey who said she was spending most Nox with him, apparently just sleeping. Harry was confused as to why Ron was coming to him now.

'' Hey. '' He said, opening the door and remaining passive until he could image out his admirer's motives.

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

'' Yes… '' He answered cautiously.

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

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

'' Why not ? We sneak out of and into everywhere else. '' Ron crossed his branch. `` I can't find out any peacefulness of mind until we find her Harry. I don't maintenance if she's a vampire, I just want to wreak her binding to her folk ! ``

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

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

Harry didn't know what to do… he had a feeling that if he didn't agree to go help notice Parvati then Ron would simply assay it on his own. He supposed it would be skillful if they could happen Parvati before Luna's vision came true, after all, Troy would surely be looking for her and the last thing they needed was two newborn vampires out scuffling in the woods… especially if Troy came out the victor. `` Okay. '' He agreed, having talked himself into it. At to the lowest degree now he had a grounds 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 lupin to fall with us. '' He insisted, figuring that would assuage both Luna and his own qualm about the plan. `` And everyone else stays behind inside the village walls. The last thing we need is someone else getting bitten, even by accident. ``

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

Harry knew she had already taken the potion and had to go into the village as Tristram. beingness reminded of that, he felt a sudden sting of guilt trip. With first gear Parvati's disappearance then Fred's, with Luna frying herself out, with Draco dealing with his founding father, none of them had focused on releasing Jacey from the obligation of playing their dead enemy. Whether or not they found Parvati today, he knew the following thing he had to do was focalize on how to take a shit Tristan disappear for good.

( rupture )

Jacey climbed into one of the waiting rig, feeling immensely uncomfortable with having to pretend to be person else outside of Hogwarts. She had never been to this Hogsmeade village, but Tristan had and he would be associate with the blank space and the things he had done there… she was not. Harry and Luna had tried to satiate her in during breakfast, thinking her all sorts of retention from their own time spent there. It was overwhelming and as Troy climbed in behind her, she suddenly felt very alone. A sense of foreboding washed over her when Troy turned to pouf and the others who had been about to also get in their carriage. `` You guys do find another one. Tristram and I need to talk. ``

They all looked to her and she simple nodded in agreement, sending them scattering to find an vacuous carriage. She and Ilion sat in silence until the wagon train of pupil began moving. `` I don't appreciate being cornered like this. '' She said sternly, hoping to maintain her hairgrip on Tristan's tone.

'' And I don't appreciate being lied to. Something is different about you. '' He accused, turning to seem at her. There wasn't a cliff of concern 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 derriere. She brought her brass close to his and allowed her teeth to arise. `` How daring you question me ? '' She demanded angrily. `` I made you, I can just as easily unmake you. ``

'' And Annapurna Patil ? '' Troy choked out. Thankfully he did not try to soften away from her as she knew her strong point was nada compared to Tristram's. Her functioning seemed to have rattled him, making him less certain that he had figured her out.

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

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

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

'' No, but you are supposed to be telling me what to do, remember ? '' 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, sure he didn't believe her to be Tristan because if he did, he would never receive dared act so boldly. `` The others are all waiting for your statement, I've told them you intend to go through with it today no issue what and they're all wetting themselves in their excitement to try out themselves to you. Unless you give them a specific programme, right now it's going to be a free-for-all once we get to the village to see which Slytherin will get Luna for you first. '' He was so clearly setting a snare, testing her to see what she would do as Tristan.

Forcing herself to remain calm, Jacey shrugged. `` safe, let them. That will give you and I free to go look for Parvati. ``

Ilium raised an eyebrow. `` Really ? ``

Again she shrugged. `` I don't hold out practically hope for them, but if one does find success then all the best. If not, then I'll simply take fear of Luna myself once we've set affair right with our new minuscule lamia. ``

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

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

( BREAK )

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

'' Why is everyone so quiet ? '' Padma asked, having chosen to taunt to the village with them. `` I feel like I'm losing my mind in the secrecy in here. ``

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

'' Don't trouble, we'll be there soon enough. '' lupin sighed. He'd agreed to come assistant look for Annapurna, but he wasn't pleased with the approximation or the secrecy.

Yeah, I can espouse them. Draco replied once they all descended into muteness again.

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

Do not worry, he is much imperfect than Tristram 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 saki, the coaches couldn't get to the village soon enough. Ginny, I need you to make certain you and Hermione go along out in the unresolved, preferably near the Aurors… Lupin said Kingsley is supposed to be there today. He suggested.

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

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

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

Together, they led the way behind the cheeseparing construction attempting to not draw too much attention to themselves. `` fountainhead, are we all ready ? '' Lupin asked nervously.

'' You guys be deliberate. '' Hermione told them, having only been informed that they intended to front for Anapurna. `` Ginny and I will do our in force to cover the fact that you aren't here. ``

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

Indicating that it was time, Luna took Draco's script as Harry grabbed Ron and Lupin. As one they all apparated away with Harry and Luna pushing through the roadblock attempting to harbour them back. They landed about a half a statute mile outside the village wall. `` Is everyone okey ? '' Harry asked, wanting to be sure they'd all made it through in one piece.

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

'' fountainhead, I better be off. '' genus Draco said.

'' Where ? '' lupine asked in confusion as he and Ron had no estimation Jacey was out there with Troy.

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

'' This stopping point to the good moon, I'll catch their scent in no time… well hers anyway. '' He amended, clearly shy whether even his heightened sentience could notice troy weight if he didn't want to be found. He'd already said as a lot about Parvati a week ago when Harry had asked if he thought he'd be able to find her.

'' Who are you talking about ? '' Ron asked in aggregate confusion, having no clue as to anything involving Tristan, Jacey or Troy… former than Troy had admitted to being the one to bend Parvati. Ignoring him, Draco merely turned and ran off with more f number than a normal human being was capable of.

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

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

( BREAK )

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

'' I suppose… do you think at some pointedness we could quickly duck into the bookstore ? '' Hermione asked as they walked out from behind the building and surveyed the street before them. Students and villagers milled around as storekeepers shouted out their vacation sales, attempting to bring in customer. `` There she is ! '' She pointed out Padma, walking toward the leash Broomsticks with Susan, Dean, Seamus and Hannah.

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

'' I'll be spry, I promise. '' She insisted as they began walking together down the road. An clumsy muteness descended over them and Hermione knew Ginny was as aware as she was that this was the kickoff metre the two girlfriend 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 different masses from who they were then… but it didn't make things any less tense between them.

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

'' Anything about alien flowers or Astral jut. '' She answered simply as they entered the shop 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 in all probability this is a just a good seat for them to stop and get tender before heading back out into the Baron Snow of Leicester. '' She muttered while she scoured the claim before her. Ginny walked off a bit, trying to help speed things along by searching out a different gangway. Just as she was about to return up and try another aisle herself, Hermione felt her pocket grow warm. Lee must have found something….

Quickly making certainly Ginny wouldn't observation, Hermione ducked out of the store and around the back away from prying eyes and ears. She didn't want to have to explicate to any of Fred's class that he was missing and so the last person she needed overhearing her was his sister. To her dismay it began to hoodwink harder… she felt her nub clutch as her persuasion returned to Halloween night, when she and Fred had shared their offset candy kiss in the blow covered court. 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 give birth figured something out from these single file. '' He answered uncertainly.

'' What ? '' She demanded eagerly.

'' well, I think I know who they're using as a spy… and it's definitely not Simon Zelotes McKinney. '' Lee hesitated, clearly uncomfortable as he furrowed his eyebrow in her wear double of him in the mirror. `` You're not going to believe this… I'm not sure I believe it and I'm looking at the trial impression in nominal head of me. ``

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

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

( BREAK )

It didn't take long for Draco to charm Jacey's nose despite the falling C, she had promised to touch as many tree as possible to facilitate lead him to her… Ilium he was unable to detect at all. I think I'm close. He thought out, hoping she would respond.

ejaculate quick, I think he's working up the nerve to make a move. Jacey's worried voice came back to him.

pulling off his amulet, he shoved it in his pocket and stopped to shut his optic and concentrate. Dragon focused on her smell while eliminating all the others. His ear picked up something to the west and he immediately set off, careful to puddle as small noise as possible. At hold out he saw them walking and snuck up as close as he could to determine what the situation was.

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

Dragon waited for Jacey to strike out at the boy as Tristram would induce had his word been questioned. But she didn't, instead attempting to keep him in line with terror alone. He began to see why Troy had become suspicious, apparently the only matter Jacey wasn't able to properly imitate was Tristan's ruthlessness.

Sure enough, Ilion 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 ? ceramicist and Malfoy somehow managed to kill Tristan and you must be that underhand little young woman they've been hiding up at the rook ! '' He bared his teeth, his cuspid growing to sharply spot. While not nearly as shivery as Tristan's, Troy's fang looked just as dangerous.

Dragon was moving in an jiffy, rushing the lamia and tackling him to the footing as Jacey pulled herself disembarrass. The two boys snarled at each early, each very very much wanting to occur out the dominant force as they began taking swings at each other. Just as Draco was certainly he'd hit hard enough to shatter the other's nose, Troy managed to connect as well, hitting with enough force out to criticize genus Draco back. Rising to his substructure with his nose dripping origin, troy weight was greeted by the deal of Jacey with her hands up and cupping musket ball of flame. `` What the hell are you ? '' He marveled.

Sensing Draco getting up behind him, Ilium must let figured his easily prospect was to run. They quickly took off after him, determined to retain him from telling anyone what he'd figured out about Tristan. Jacey, being quite properly homo, fell behind quickly as the two male child raced through the Sir Henry Joseph Wood as fast as their loan-blend speed allowed. While Troy wasn't exactly able to fly, he seemed to hover over the land as he went and was therefore able to run a bit faster and with less precaution than Draco who had to be suspicious of the people of obstruction covering the timberland floor. But never once did he let the vampire out of his sight… the hunt was on and not only did he not jazz how to turn it off, he didn't want to.

( BREAK )

'' Hey, here's one on astral jutting. '' Ginny grabbed the Koran and turned to find Hermione but the former girl wasn't where she'd been a 2d ago. Quickly scanning the store, she caught sight 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 trace, knowing if exclusively it was safer to be here in this crowded memory. But Hermione knew that too, so what had drawn her to do something as grave 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 promptly she'd be able to view up to Hermione in no time. Stepping outside, she looked up and down the now abandon streets, but the early girl was nowhere to be seen. Trying to remain calmness and legitimate, she figured Hermione must cause ducked into another memory board as it had begun to snow even harder. And then she saw footprints leading around to the back of the bookstall. They were quickly being filled in with new C and pulling her punk lower over her expression, she set out to survey them, suddenly certain they were Hermione's. But by the time she had made her way around the building she realized the other girl had moved on. The step seemed to stop and then start again as she must have got decided to get out of the snowfall after all.

With a sigh of defeat, Ginny began to make her way back to the front. Out of the turning point of her eye, she caught some trend and turning to look, she was able to establish out a figure in the length walking toward the plantation. Maybe she'd read the footprints wrong… after all the snow was now practically coming down in thick, heavy sheets.

'' Hey ! Hermione ! '' She took off after the fig, 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 misunderstanding. The person ahead of her was far too tall to be her friend, and from the way they moved, she was certain it was a man. Fear washed over her out of nowhere and she tried to turn around before he noticed her.

But it was too late, he had heard her calling. He turned, revealing himself to be Lucius Malfoy. `` You ! '' He narrowed his optic and sneered at her as he raised his wand. Hers was tucked away in her coat pocket, he would see any relocation she made to retrieve it. panic flooded through her. `` I know who you are, you're the slight 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 cease matter today. Where is he ? '' He demanded, taking several long strides closer to her.

Unable to stop herself she tried to endorse 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.

'' wellspring you respectable enter it out soon because if I can't find him, you're just as good a catch… Hades I might even be able to buy my way back in by bringing the minister's only daughter to the darkness Lord… '' Lucius grinned.

'' I doubt it. '' She kept her voice even, determined to be brave. `` zilch you do will change who your parents are, as Draco had the bad luck to learn. ``

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

( BREAK )

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

Ron shivered at the words the man used to describe what he smelled… it reminded him that Parvati was in all actuality dead, that what she was now something entirely early 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 live how Parvati has taken to it, it's often sound that we find her before they do. ``

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

Lupin shrugged. `` She's a newborn baby that has been left to wander on her own through nature for close to two weeks. environs can absolutely impact the way someone can come out of this. For lesson, had Draco been bitten and left on his own in the woods there's no telling whether he would have retained as lots of his world as he had. The Lapplander goes for me, Anapurna and any other human infected by a humanoid. ``

Determining she'd been there to a lesser extent than half an hour before, they quickly moved on. Ron's stomach was tied in knots as they all started calling out for Parvati hoping the girl would evince herself. `` Over there ! '' Luna pointed as her attending was suddenly drawn to a little orchard of trees.

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

And then he saw her. She peeked her chief out first before fully stepping away from the Tree she'd been hiding behind, still wearing the long dress she used as a costume for the saltation. It was in rag now, her hair was hanging in tangle around her shoulder and her skin, normally a dark creamy caramel brown, was now ashy and pale. She dropped to her genu in the Snow in straw man of them and hang her head. `` I'm sorry. '' She whispered. `` I never wanted this. ``

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

'' Anapurna ? '' lupin tentatively stepped forward, tightly gripping his amulet. Ron, Harry and Luna all stepped to the side, letting their professor try to do by affair. `` We have to take you back, Dumbledore, your syndicate, Chester Alan Arthur and the ministry… they can all help you. ``

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

'' Please understand Annapurna, this doesn't have to mean- '' lupine stopped and whipped his headspring to the English at the Lapp fourth dimension Parvati did, both obviously picking up on something the others couldn't.

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

Parvati was ready but before he could even get through her, Draco came out of nowhere, tackling Ilion mid-strike. Ron watched in astonished horror along with the others as the two male child tumbled to the ground, both quickly getting back on their feet and crouching low as they circled each other, waiting for the chance to attack.

'' Whoa, look out ! '' Ron yelled, catching sight of Tristan running through the trees 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 spell. Not quite understanding what she meant, he turned back in horror to bump out whether she had stopped him in time.





NOTE : Who's the professor spy ? What will Lucius do ? What will happen with vampires troy weight and Annapurna ? Did Ron mistakenly hit Jacey with a spell ? What's going on with Fred ? breakthrough out following chapter !


Chapter 51 : A grave Day in Hogsmeade

A/N : So in this chapter I name a professor as a possible spy… just to let you make love, I am changing matter up from how they were in the veridical books yet again by using an OC in topographic point of an semi-established fictitious character. Let's all go with the flowing on this : ) Read, Review and Enjoy !



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

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

'' I heard individual coming and had to move. '' She explained. Just as the snow had begun to flow harder, she'd heard the evident sound of footsteps crunching around the bookstall to where she'd originally gone to talk to him. She'd had to fold the compact and quickly hide herself behind the woodpile before the tall figure of a man walked past her toward the plantation. She hadn't bothered to question who he was or where he was going, she'd been too anxious to summarize talking to Lee. Instead she'd waited until the man was a few one thousand from her before dashing out and around the other side of the building toward the now abandoned streets. Figuring the shed was her best bet not to run into anyone else while still getting out of the Snow, she'd rushed there and closed herself in. `` You were saying the spy might be a prof ? '' She asked incredulously.

'' Yeah, I'm reasonably sure. Seems Elanya had a secret whirl that the ministry actually knew all about… According to the single file, she and the professor involved had to attend disciplinary hearings long time ago before she graduated but they were able to convince everyone that they were mistaken… or at least no one could prove the affaire. '' He answered, flipping through the documents to be sure enough of what he was telling her.

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

'' Maybe not in so many Son, but if you go back and read it now, you might see that they alluded to it… What I have here seems to indicate that Dumbledore had wanted the professor to be banned from teaching but as they were unable to prove anything beyond a doubtfulness, he had to keep open the guy in utilization and prevent both their record book clean. ``

'' So, who is it ? ``

'' Dolos Erebos. '' He grimly announced.

'' The Arithmancy professor ? Are you sure enough ? '' Hermione had always enjoyed his family, had been the exclusively one in her sign of the zodiac to try an OWL in the subject. She couldn't believe he would sustain an affair with a bookman let alone offer to spy on and belt down one.

'' That's what it says. And from what I'm seeing of her Recent epoch travels, I'm somewhat sure they're still in touch- there was a report of them being seen together this summer in Australia. Let's see… she had entered the res publica to reportedly attend a kinsperson funeral. I have no thought why he was there obviously. You might want to look into the guy's files up at schoolhouse because I'm sure as shooting as the pits not breaking back into the ministry… nearly had marrow failure the close time, I was so aflutter soul would catch us. '' He shuddered as he recalled the experience.

'' I'll do that. Let me have sex if you manage to find anything else. '' She answered distractedly as her mind whirled, trying to think of everything she knew of professor Erebos. While grave with a very no-nonsense attitude in his course of instruction, he was also very accessible and spend time ensuring each of his students completely understood the material, even if he did egress mile long essays every workweek. He always offered a favorable smile in the hallway and was willing to mind when a educatee had a problem. Hermione had always considered Erebos to be a very good teacher and nothing she could recall 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 gens full of trickery ... at to the lowest degree according to the antediluvian Greeks.

( BREAK )

Luna watched in revulsion as her previous vision of this event came to life story before her eyes with a few new changes now that they had attempted to interfere with the future and the great unwashed were making their own decisions. No one seemed to know what to do as Draco and Troy circled each former waiting for the opportune prison term to mint. And then Jacey, still disguised as Tristan had come running up and Ron perceiving the danger had mistakenly taken aim to try and facilitate. She shouted and tried to shove his arm in clock 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 think that's not Tristan ? '' Ron demanded. Luna realized everyone had stopped what they were doing and were tensely waiting to see what would unfold.

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

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

At last memory that these were bookman and he was a prof, lupin came to his signified and stepped forward. `` Everyone stop ! '' He shouted. Draco bristled at the command but Troy gave no indication that he heard.

Instead he turned to Parvati. `` semen on, snap out of it ! Do what you were made to do and aid me avenge what they did to Tristram. ``

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

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

'' Maybe you should possess learned how to do this upright before forcing it on me ! '' She screamed. `` I'll do zilch you say ! ``

And then they were both in motility before anyone could even comprehend that they had moved. Annapurna and Troy clashed together, a tangle of tooth and claws. `` lay off ! '' Luna shouted, knowing neither had heard her.

'' Harry ! Help me separate them ! '' Lupin yelled, waving his wand. Harry stepped forward and focused, using his own superpower to grab detention of Troy and rip him from Parvati's compass as lupine pulled her away. Harry pinned Troy to the earth, allowing Luna to cast and bind him in place.

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

Harry, Ron and lupin rushed over to serve but the little girl was in a ferine res publica and any clip anyone got too fold, she'd crack at them as well. `` Stop now ! '' Jacey shouted. Still bearing Tristan's visual aspect, she stepped forward and allowed the flaming to burst from her mitt in warning.

Unlike Tristan, Parvati's skin wasn't impenetrable and could easily be burned. Her eyes were on Jacey's custody, transfixed by the fire. At last she seemed to come back to her sens, giving up her attack on genus Draco and rolling to the side to allow him to put up. He quickly pulled his talisman from his scoop and put it on as he backed away from her, holding it firmly in his hand. Luna knew they were favourable that he'd managed to pay heed on to himself, it had to have been unmanageable for him to single out Annapurna 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 meter to get used to his lycanthrope self.

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

'' It wasn't your fault. '' lupine reasoned, though he was trusted to stay fresh his aloofness from her as he also clutched his amulet.

Seeing that the place was under ascendance, Jacey released the fervour she'd been holding, her hands now hanging at her sides and smoking slightly. Luna held her breathing place along with the residue of her supporter as Ron approached her.

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

( gaolbreak )

Ginny tried to deplumate her arm free, but Lucius dug his fingerbreadth in, refusing to let her lam so easily. `` This is your stopping point chance, where's Draco ? '' He growled.

'' He's out in the Wood 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 soul to the fact that she was in trouble. But they were so far from the buildings, and the thickly falling snow muffled her interpreter even more.

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

And not doubting that he would, she kept her mouth shut. Panic was quickly settling in as she realized her silent birdcall for aid were going as unanswered as her real screech. 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 take a shit herself experience even worse, she refused to suppose that they weren't answering because something had happened to them out there.

'' So, he's out in the woodwind. '' Lucius stared off thoughtfully, gripping her arm even smashed. `` That's rightfield, the full moon is only two days away… they probably don't want him mixing with the educatee too much. Let me judge, he's out there with Remus lupine. '' He sneered. Ginny remained mute, neither wanting to confirm nor deny anything he thought. He had no idea that Fred had found a way to help with those talisman so she was perfectly willing to let Lucius believe Draco was more out of dominance than he was. `` Alright, we're going to sneak out of the village and go looking for them. It's better we go out into the woods anyway, lupus erythematosus chance of being seen. '' He licked his lips, eagre to have this showdown with his son.

She didn't combat as he pulled her along to whatever bust in the fence he'd snuck in through. Ginny very much wanted him to take her out there and closer to Harry and Luna… she had to tell them to monish Draco. The last matter she was going to do was let Lucius have the ingredient of surprise.

( recess )

Having finished talking to Lee, Hermione slowly made her way back out into the small blizzard. She instantly headed towards the bookstore, feeling guilty for leaving Ginny there alone for so long. As she walked, she began preparing her self-justification for the other girl, trying to decide what to say to her and still not alert her to the fact that her brother was missing. It was cold and wet out, and Hermione was tidal bore to get inside and warm up up despite having to lie to one of her Quaker once she got there ... But just as she was approaching the room access, she could stimulate sworn she heard person howler for assistant. What's more, she thought it sounded like Ginny.

The blow was growing rich, making it hard for her to maneuver her way around to the back of the edifice once more. She fell twice as she tried to run, and she shivered as her trouser where now completely soaked. Even though she hadn't heard another wow, she was suddenly sealed that it was Ginny and she kept moving forward in meter to see two figures far ahead of her, one dragging the other into the plantation. Hermione forced herself not to call out, waiting until they were completely in the trees before going to survey, pulling out her wand as she went.

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

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

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

'' How was I supposed to be capable to secern through the C. P. Snow ? '' 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 raise her wand.

'' Do you see her anywhere ? I have no melodic theme where she is. '' Hermione answered nervously. `` And I doubt you have any reason to talk to her since neither of you are supposed to be in the Village. You're supposed to be under 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 await us to believe the others aren't close by ? '' Crabbe leered.

'' I have always expected very petty from either of you. And yet you still have the power to let down. '' She shot back, refusing to show fear in forepart of these two retard. `` And I don't need anybody's help to be able to take tending of you. '' To prove her point, she shot a piece at their feet, causing the snow to violently burst up into their faces.

It was net they would own liked to retaliate, but their uncertainness that they could really conduct her on was too practically. After all, they'd had years to see what she was adequate to of in social class. `` seed on, let's go back to the village and look for Lovegood. '' Crabbe suggested. `` granger's useless to us at the instant anyway since Potter's not around. '' He added, as if they were leaving only because she wasn't worth their time.

She let them go simply because she knew Luna was nowhere near the village, though she did think to warn 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 clothes as best she could before turning and continuing on to the orchard, following the recondite impressions Ginny and her captor had left in the snow. At final stage, with her tooth chattering and her legs all but numb, she came to a diminished clustering of bushes that was hiding a newly made hole in the wall surrounding the village.

Hermione didn't know what to do. The thought of going out into the Grant Wood alone while Parvati and Troy were out there wasn't too appealing, not to mention she wasn't sure just how serious this mystery man was who had taken Ginny. But looking behind her, the cerebration of going back to the village alone while the Slytherins were out on the hunt for Luna didn't seem like the greatest program either. She had no theme where any of her Quaker were or how longsighted it would bring before she was in range of mountains to contact them… and even if she did go after them, she was already so cold-blooded, how long would it be until she actually caught pneumonia or frostbite ? But going back to the village to warm herself would mean giving up on Ginny and would make her feel like the risky individual ever.

Tears of frustration slid down her cheeks, instantly freezing to her skin… she felt so tired, so set up to fall in up. She didn't know what to do. She sat down in the snowfall, giving into the apathy spreading over her. Pulling out the compact, she held it in her gloved hands wishing she could just open it and see Fred's face… to talk to him and have him tell her it was fine and that she had to get up and go on. But that wasn't going to materialize, only Lee waited at the other end and he had cipher comforting to extend. Never had she felt so alone.

( BREAK )

Harry had been off with lupin trying to resolve what to do next when they heard Luna riot. He turned to see genus Draco get out her out of the way as Parvati tore preceding them to attack Ilion, sinking both her hook and teeth into his cervix. He and Lupin rushed over at the same time Draco did and they all grabbed an arm to get out one vampire off the other. Troy, still bound in lupin's spell, could only writhe in botheration as line of descent spewed from his neck ... she'd torn his throat out. Parvati was fighting them, trying to get back to her prey but they held on tight… though Harry could clearly see they'd been too late.

As soon as Troy stopped moving, his eyes glazing over with Death, Annapurna went hobble and gave up her conflict to get away. `` I was so hungry… '' She said quietly, both sad and determined as the boy's blood dripped down her chin and stained her fingers. `` comfortably it was him than any of you. ``

Harry shook his head… Luna hadn't described any of this in her visual sense. Apparently Annapurna 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 infant to deform so quickly on their Almighty. He thought to Harry, trying to puddle logic of what he'd just witnessed. I suppose he did abandon her out here… and he was a newborn himself. He took out his handkerchief and handed it to Luna to apply to Parvati so she could try to pick herself up.

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

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

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

'' Why would we cause to ? The last soul he was seen with was Tristan. '' genus Draco argued.

'' Exactly. '' Harry said grimly as it clicked together, how they could use this tragedy to their advantage. `` Tristan will be the one to give to do for Troy, if Jacey plays it right, she could give Dumbledore a way to finally boot out him for just cause. ``

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

'' You must make out back with us. '' Lupin once more take a firm stand. `` There are many who live almost completely convention lives with the vampire bane, there's no rationality you can't do the same. ``

Parvati shook her fountainhead. `` I can't, and I won't let you pretend 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 attend up at him with tears in her eyes. `` Yes, I do want to see her one Sir Thomas More fourth dimension before I disappear… ''

'' I can't in good scruples 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 vampire and helps them adapt to a formula life. I will not tell your family you are utter, but I am willing to let them continue to think you are missing until you are in a better bod of mind to decide how you would like to proceed. ``

'' Where is this station ? And how do you sleep with about it ? '' Ron asked doubtfully.

'' I don't know where it is, for obvious reasons my kind would never be told no matter how in ascendency we are. But it is my job to know these things exist and I know exactly who to meet to convey her there. '' lupin replied defensively before turning back to Parvati. `` I can possess them meet you outside Hogsmeade by daybreak. ``

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

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

'' fountainhead, I suppose we spread out and detect an Ash Tree. '' lupine said slowly. `` Any wood could form for him, but let's get Ash just to be surely. ``

genus Draco was the maiden to make out the group of Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree they needed and they quickly went to help gather sufficiency Mrs. Henry Wood to cover Troy's body. Once they'd accomplished the task, Jacey stepped up and pointed her finger's breadth, emitting a flow of fervency 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 argue she had heard it too. Reaching out to place a manus on her shoulder, he was nearly knocked off his substructure as their mix energy amplified Ginny's distant birdcall. HARRY ? LUNA ? Can you hear me yet ?

Ginny ? What's wrong ? Luna answered anxiously.

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

Where's Hermione ? Harry asked.

I have no theme. Ginny said quickly. She walked out of the bookstall 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 mind of splitting up their group even more.

Okay, when you get there stay near Jacey if you can and try to ward off the places you know the Slytherins might be. Try and find Hermione and Kingsley and spliff with them. He was unquiet 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, Guy ? We have a svelte job. He thought out to everyone but Ron, bracing himself for Draco's reaction to the news.

( BREAK )

Jacey watched as Ron walked away from the others and knew he was beyond angry… there may not even be a Word inviolable enough for what he was feeling. It was a dark mixed bag of fury, betrayal, disgust, guiltiness 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 conclusion in not telling him that his Sister was in the clutches of her boyfriend's father. For all they knew, Ron would release his worked up tirade on genus Draco and blame him for what Lucius had chosen to do. And seeing how badly Dragon himself had taken the news, Jacey knew it would be bad if Ron tried to start anything. `` Hey, I am dark I did not order you I was pretending to be Tristan. '' She said softly as she approached him.

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

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

'' You said you were leaving the castling ! '' He angrily turned on her. `` That you were doing matter 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 Tristan I was not myself and therefore I was gone, but I was never further than a few hallways from you. And I did do this for the coven… Harry and Luna are coven appendage are they not ? Tristan wanted to bend Luna and hand her over to Voldemort- not only would that have been bad for the coven, it would throw destroyed Harry, how could I not receive tried to help block it ? ``

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

'' We wanted to retain you safe… I wanted to maintain you safe. This is why we did not tell you ! '' She said, knowing he did not think it a secure 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. '' Parvati said quietly from behind them. They spun around to face up her, both surprised by how easily she had crept up on them… Jacey more than than Ron as she had not sensed the vampire to be anywhere near them. `` Sorry to disturb, I couldn't help but catch. ``

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

He's already dealing with enough right now. Parvati thought back, her voice tense and full moon of venom. Jacey was quick to recognize the early girl did not like her at all, and it was directly as a solvent of the familiarity she seemed to share with Ron… A jealous vampire… She did not have sex what to think, though she was struck by the nonsensical idea that Anapurna had laid claim to him first. And seeing how he instantly softened his attitude, it was clear the guilt he felt over the daughter's destiny was firm, bonding him to her in an obligatory alliance.

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

Annapurna shook her head. `` No, you go aid find Hermione. She and Luna are going to necessitate you to look after them… but will you do me a favor ? Will you please take on me outside Hogwarts tonight with Padma so I can talk to her before I leave ? ``

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

Jacey felt uneasy knowing he would probably do anything Parvati asked now… that his own conflict would ca-ca it nearly impossible to deny 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 provide 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 begin ruining the Macnair reputation the minute they returned to school.

( BREAK )

'' Be thrifty. '' Harry warned one live on meter, reaching out to comprehend Luna's handwriting. They were standing alone, Lupin had pulled Draco aside and they were talking quietly to each other while Ron, Jacey and Parvati conversed off in the distance. Taking the chance, Luna wrapped her 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 kiss her deeply.

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

'' wellspring, I drank the potion, I guess it's sentence to head back. '' Jacey announced as she, Ron, and Anapurna returned. `` I will do my best to talk to the Slytherins. '' She promised.

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

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

Luna felt bad that they hadn't told him exactly what was going on, having not wanted to alarm him with the fact that Ginny could be in bother. In fact, he'd only been told that Harry, genus Draco and Lupin were staying behind to secure Annapurna could retrieve her way back to the castle and she couldn't avail but feel it was a bad idea not to recite Ron. But at the same time she didn't want him to tag along and possibly get hurt in his desperation to facilitate his sister… It was bad enough Harry and Lupin would cause to be keeping Draco in check.

Luna quickly leaned up to osculate Harry again and assured that Jacey had completely turned back into Tristram, she reached out to snaffle her and Ron and whisk them back to the small town before she could change her psyche. They arrived outside the Shrieking shack, the lonesome place she was sealed there would be no students. Sure enough the topographic point was deserted, and even though the Baron Snow of Leicester began to let up as they walked they soon saw the streets of Hogsmeade were pretty much clear of people.

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

'' She's in the orchard and we'd better hurry. Something's really amiss. '' She told them, coming back to herself after a dark and solitary tripper through Hermione's head.

They ran off, letting her take the lead as she followed the girl's dim stream of consciousness. Running through the trees and right up to the wall, Luna frantically pushed the pubic hair aside to reveal Hermione huddled into herself as she sat in a kettle of fish. Her teeth were chattering and her lip were blue, her case red and raw from the cold. The pocket-sized flaming she'd made for herself was dying out and she had clearly been prepared to let it. `` Hermione ! '' Ron rushed to pluck her to her human foot, wrapping his arms around her in an attempt to pop the question warmth.

I couldn't decide what to do, leave or stay on. Hermione looked at Luna, unable to constitute her lip form words as she shivered. Her eye were so despondent, so drop off and unsure.

It's okay, you aren't alone anymore. Luna assured her, stepping up to throw her coat of arms around the girl as well. Jacey quickly broke off several branches, laying them down and lighting them in a giant blaze, her deception fire yet again rendering the C. P. Snow inconsequential and therefore making her flames impregnable than the ace Hermione had attempted to use to keep herself warm. Luna and Ron moved her closer, wanting to help their protagonist thaw out.

Why is Tristan here and lighting things on ardour ? Hermione asked, her eye wide with fear while her voice maintained a numb indifference.

It is me, Jacey. She answered for herself.

It's a hanker narration I'll tell you about later. Luna added.

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

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

Once certain her flame were properly contained, Jacey turned to them. `` I will go gather as many Slytherins as I can and try to get them to give up their hunt for you. '' She told Luna. `` Once I have I will let you bed that it is rubber to issue forth 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 flush 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 wood to the fire. Luna and Hermione looked away from each early, neither wanting to make out up with an result to that. But he caught on anyway, realizing they were both keeping something from him. Luna watched as a shadow passed over his face and she knew he had reached his breaking point with privacy, that this was the last husk. He balled his hands into fist at his sides and strode up to predominate menacingly over her. `` I said, where's my Sister ? '' He said in a quiet yet threatening tone.

( BREAK )

The minute of arc Potter had told him what Ginny had said, Draco saw red. He had to walk away from the chemical group to gather himself, to come to full term with the fact that today may just be the day he had to kill his father… And it would sure as blaze come to that before he'd let Ginny get hurt. Taking several deep breathing place, he urged the others to be after faster, wanting nothing Thomas More than to find Lucius and let him make love what a misunderstanding it was to put anyone, especially Ginny, in the middle of their transmissible feud.

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

'' Why is he here ? '' Dragon asked miserably. `` I gave Dumbledore all the ways I knew how to determine him, why haven't they caught him yet ? Why is he still free to fall 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 genus Draco, and that's his own fault because he placed limits on you in his own mind. I'm just glad you've managed to prove to yourself that you're Thomas More than he ever thought you could be. Don't let him goad you just because he doesn't think you're life-threatening to him. ``

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

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

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

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

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

She nodded eagerly. `` Yes, just go so that I can be alone to get set. '' genus Draco knew what she meant… she was going to find something to eat before coming human face to human face with humans again.

Potter reached out and snaffle hold of him and Lupin, apparating them away and to where he sensed Ginny to be. Within seconds they were mil away back near the Village, but no one was there. `` We must own just missed them. '' lupin pointed out the recondite footprints in the snow.

Draco sniffed the air and instantly picked up the faint scent of the coconut application Ginny used. He raced ahead of the other two, grimly eager to once more face his father. Seeing them ahead in the distance he slowed and waited for Lupin. Leaving Potter to treat them, the two wolfman removed their amulet and placed them carefully in their scoop where they wouldn't make contact with their peel. genus Draco could still sense the effects of it and longed to thrust the affair far away from him… but he knew better. Without the Wolfsbane, the amulets were the only thing keeping them sane in these last two mean solar day before the moon and he needed that in order to see to it he kept his humor and didn't accidentally hurt the wrong person.

Without a word to each former, they allowed the masher to waken within them, heightening their senses and setting out to do what they were meant to- Holman Hunt. Breaking off from each other they noiselessly moved over the blow in inverse directions before running analogue, looking to encircle their target and leave no outflow. Ginny, we're here. Draco heard ceramicist silently call out to reassure 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 wands out, trapping Lucius from either English and the front man. He leapt back in surprise, clutching Ginny finisher to him and spinning around to find thrower behind him brandishing his wand with several heavy subdivision circling in the air around him. Backing up against a Tree as they all three closed rank, Lucius swung Ginny into his body and crushed his arm against her pharynx to save her from escaping while using her as a kind of human shield. He waved his sceptre at all of them threateningly though his eyes were locked on Draco. `` I've been looking for you, son. '' He said as a dangerous smiling spread across his face.

Draco could see Ginny shivering and knew it was more than the cold, she was clearly scared about what was going to materialize. He wanted to keep himself together, to keep her worried about herself and not him… but facing Lucius, seeing the hatred his Fatherhood now had for him, he couldn't plosive speech sound himself. Pulling the amulet from his pocket, he angrily tossed both it and his sceptre in the Charles Percy Snow and threw his blazon out tauntingly. `` I'm right here. ``

( breakout )

Crabbe and Goyle were the first two Jacey found, which made good sense seeing as how they were forced to wander the streets in rules of order to not be seen and thus reported for breaking their house arrest. As Tristram, she ordered them to gather as many of the others as they could and have them come across her in the Shrieking Shack. Quickly going from building to construction, she found the rest of the Slytherins and gave them all her lodge before heading up to the deserted house herself.

When she entered the dusty parlor, she saw that most everyone was already there. A few stragglers came in after her and she was sure to gaze daggers at them to let them know she was displeased. `` Everyone pay close aid because I've already had a bad day and I'd hatred to give to make it forged by repeating myself. '' She looked around to ensure all attention was on her. `` Troy and I ran into some problem while out looking for Anapurna 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 disconnected vox rang out and she knew she'd have to hand them more. `` All you need to be intimate about the state of affairs is that they became unruly and I was forced to deal with them. ``

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

'' It's just as well. '' Jacey waved her off. `` I had arranged a meeting in order to hand her off only to learn that my missionary post has changed. ``

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

'' I didn't say that. '' She snapped, startling the other lady friend into silence. `` There are a lot of affair going on that none of you can even begin to comprehend. I suggest you bar trying and simply listen and follow orders, lest you wind up like Troy and Parvati. '' No one dared speak and she nodded in approval. `` That's more like it. Now, our main object lens is no longer Luna Lovegood… instead it is being left to us to visualize out who the enigma girlfriend is that Potter and Dumbledore are hiding at the castle. It seems the nighttime noble has taken a particular interest in her. ``

Jacey knew Harry and Luna were going to be upset that she was turning their attention on herself… but she figured this was the best way to stay fresh everyone safe until they could leave school at finally. After all, how could the Slytherins possibly find her when she was meddlesome 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 full not be lying to me. '' He said, stepping forward and forcing her to get hold of another footstep back.

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

'' So postponement, they lied about why they were staying out there ? '' He roared, shouting in her face. `` What the bloody hell 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 argumentation, they'd forgotten she was still there, hunched over the flak with her hired man 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 see to it 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 outdoors t-to help f-figure it out. '' She lied smoothly, her anger helping drive her into remaining composure and believable. After all, now that Ron knew Ginny was missing, there was no reasonableness 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 face and darkening eyes were any indication.

'' Don't talk to me, either of you. Not unless it's to let me fuck Jacey has given the all clear to go back to the village. And after, I don't want to sing to any of you at all. '' He said, turning his backrest on them to go sit alone on a tree stump a few pace away. Clearly he still cared enough not to empty them, but the aura of his anger was suffocating.

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

'' J-just re-really c-c-cold. '' She answered. Lee figured out who the spy is. She thought, not wanting to 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 turn up it. Lee believes there's grounds that they've continued to stick around in physical contact. Hermione quickly explained.

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

After awhile, Jacey finally called out to silently severalize Luna that it was as safe to introduce the village as it was going to get. She helped Hermione to her metrical foot and left it to her to tell Ron that it was fourth dimension to go. Despite his continued hysteria, he silently stomped over to help Hermione walk. Together they guided her between them, bore to finally get her out of the cold. Glancing behind her past the wall, Luna hoped Harry was alright out in the woods though she was Sir Thomas More than positive that she would cognize instantly if he weren't.

( prison-breaking )

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

'' I'm right here. '' genus Draco taunted his Fatherhood, clearly trying to get him to call for the bait and release Ginny.

But Lucius was no idiot, he'd been surviving for a prospicient sentence 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 notion. `` Yes you are, wandering in the Grant Wood like an animal. '' He sneered at his son. `` I'd have thought ceramicist would give birth put you out of your misery by now… Apparently he's no unlike that his foolish father and your mother's moronic cousin, keeping around a barbarian beast because they're too spineless to do the properly matter. ``

Ginny couldn't assistance the petite screech that escaped her as Lucius dragged her along to the side to dip away from the thick branch Harry had sent flying at him as he insulted James, Dog Star and Lupin. Looking up, she saw respective to a greater extent outgrowth 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 multitude he loved. `` Careful ! '' Draco shouted, upset that Ginny could give birth been hit as well.

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

'' It is my infer that you allowed Harland Myers to rest secretly in your sign for a decade. '' Lupin said stiffly, stepping slightly between the male child and Lucius to hold back anything else from happening. He appeared calm, only his eye indicated the loathing he had for the early man. `` Where was your spine then ? Why would you suffer let someone so dangerous to you and your family infiltrate your life ? ``

'' brand no error, if I had a choice in the matter, Myers would let never come near my household. '' Lucius answered bitterly. `` As it is, he proved useful all these years later… except none of you did what you were supposed to ! I should consume figured they'd let genus Draco hold up, after all, they kept you around all these years. Quite outlived all your friends, haven't you ? '' He taunted. lupin remained unsounded but Ginny could see the fury written in every line of products of his face. Draco and Harry were holding their breath as they stood alerting, waiting… they were all waiting for their chance. Lucius went on, his own choler slowly leaving his control. `` Of path there always to a greater extent to still ingest away- your friend's son and his friends, your blushing bride… your new make-shift son. You think I don't know that you signed your figure to newspaper publisher claiming tutelage of Draco ? ``

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

'' I care ! '' Lucius shouted violently, squeezing down his handgrip on Ginny without realizing it. She reached up to extract at his arm and reelect her full-of-the-moon rate of flow of O, but his hold was tight and all she could do was fight to extend breathing as the others closed ranks further. `` Stay back ! '' Lucius warned them as he turned his wand on her. `` Two words and her life is over before any of you can stop me. '' He turned his attention back on Draco. `` Whatever happens, you are a part of me, my figure and os, my genes. And now not only have you willingly allowed another family to be responsible for for you, you've completed your betrayal by telling the Minister where to find me ! I may have tried to kill 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 meter with these people has made you weak. ``

'' No, you were right. I am still your son and here we are fount to face… but you're the one who's still hiding behind somebody else. Are you that scared of me now ? '' Dragon yet again taunted his Church Father, wanting him to release Ginny and come after his very target. She shivered, scared that he'll misplace and even more frighten away about the more belike 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 front of the ardor in the Three broom handle. Despite the revel and loud interpreter all around them, they three remained unsounded each lost in their own idea. Again he wished he could get been the one to read head, that he could rip loose those girls heads and memorize all the secret they were still keeping from him. He felt torn in a million dissimilar patch and didn't know what to sense first, which resulted in a uninterrupted shift of choler, sorrowfulness, guiltiness, debt instrument, green-eyed monster, 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 ill-timed with Parvati and hadn't said anything… it had been overwhelming. Today had sufficiently blown his judgement. How could Jacey have slept beside him each Night knowing that she was lying to him everyday ? And her reason for keeping him in the dark was the same bull Harry and Dumbledore had been feeding them for years- to keep him prophylactic. But he didn't palpate very protected.

Worse than his ira and disarray over Jacey, it felt there would never come a sentence when he'd find peace of mind over Annapurna's fate… how was he supposed to live his life story knowing he'd allowed hers to be destroyed. She'd seemed so hopeless out there in the woods, so resigned to an endless biography of loneliness. How could he forgive himself or Jacey for any of it ? Tristram and troy, the two really responsible were bushed and the only ace left to pick were the living who had allowed it to happen. Ron dropped his oral sex in his hands, unsure of everything except that he was tired of thinking.

'' Hey, have you guys seen Dean and Padma ? '' Seamus asked, walking up to their 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 lady friend. After all, one had left his sister and let who knows what happen to her and the former was Luna, who he just couldn't make heads or tails of anymore… he was torn, wondering if perhaps he was actually starting to hate her. After all she was the easiest to find fault for everything going wrong, from her visions or lack of them to her unmoved ability to go on a secret to her swooping in on Harry and shaking up their whole group. It didn't subject if Hermione claimed that without Luna she and Harry would stimulate still broken up because he knew it wouldn't have happened. Fred nor anyone else could induce turned her head if she wasn't sure Harry no longer wanted her and Ron didn't manage how practically they protested to the contrary. And now because Hermione was busy chasing Fred's approval, she'd left Ginny to an unsure fate… He turned to front at both daughter, trying to hide some of what he was feeling about them. `` You two are planning on staying here in these exact speckle, right ? ``

'' I'm certainly not going back outside until it's fourth dimension to go back to schooltime. '' Hermione muttered, sinking further into her behind to get her feet closer to the fire. She was examining her digit, which were the like bright pink as her cheeks, nose and brow. Ron found he was relieved to not to see any obvious preindication of frostbite… hopefully she'd warm up and at worst, come out of this with a bad cold.

Satisfied that they were safe in the crowd together inn until the others came back, Ron left without another Word of God to either of them. He walked by Jacey who was sitting as Tristan at a board by the door with pansy and Millicent. It was make she'd come there to help continue an eye on him, Luna and Hermione should anything go wrong. He ignored her completely as he went out, finding it didn't much bother him that he had to pretend to dislike her ... after all, there wasn't much pretending at the moment. Lost in his own capitulum, he followed Seamus down the road to the candy store.

The blow had stopped and Ron looked around, hoping to catch sight of his sister as hoi polloi once more began filling the streets. But of course she wasn't here safe in the hamlet. She was out there in the Sir Henry Joseph Wood in some kind of untold risk and his friends had decided he didn't need to bonk about it. He took a few cryptical 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 guide tending of Ginny… and press semen to shove, he trusted Draco to as well. With lupine completing the trine, 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 nonvoluntary chill as he recalled the last time he'd been in this store. They'd avoided it the finally few times they'd come to Hogsmeade for a reason after all, none of them wanted to remember what had happened there last year or anything else about that battle. Ron straightened himself up and prepared what he was going to say to convince Padma to leave behind the castle with him tonight without right wing out telling her about Parvati…

( disruption )

Harry held his breath as Dragon continued to rag his father but again Lucius refused to take the come-on. All any of them needed was one chance, one moment where Ginny could break free but it was apparent he wasn't going to break it to them. For all his laborious talk, it was sack Lucius was the one who was most scared as none of them were hiding behind anyone else… genus Draco had even thrown his wand away, though Harry wished he had held onto the amulet. After all they wanted to catch Lucius, not toss off him.

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

'' essay it ! '' Draco shouted. `` Stop concealing behind a young woman and issue forth try to end my sprightliness if that's what you want ! I'm not scared of you either ! ``

'' I suppose that's why you told them about the prophylactic houses ? ! '' He yelled back. `` Imagine my surprise when the one I'm at is surrounded and I'm forced to fight my way out ! And then every undivided place 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 up your demons… I came here looking for you Draco. Send your new friends away and I'll let the minister's daughter go with them. ``

'' That's not going to happen. '' lupin said quickly. Neither he nor Harry was going to entrust Draco alone with Lucius. `` You have no move to make here, think about it. You can't apparate without leaving a trace and these woods are already swarming with Aurors looking for a escape bookman. It won't take a lot for them to find you wherever you go. No one is going to let you suffer Ginny or try to hurt your son. And no one is going to let Draco offend you either, that's something he shouldn't have to trade with. ``

'' As if he could anguish 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 call back you can just waltz in and foster parent the piffling ophidian. Keep one thing in mind, he may now be a stray dog like you, but you are not his syndicate. I am. ``

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

Harry watched a dingy shadow 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 unhurt lifespan, I don't know why I expected today to be any different. count at how watery you've let yourself grow… Tell me, if I ended all of their sprightliness right now what would you do ? Would you violently avenge them or would you just sit down in the C and cry ? '' It was clear he was upset to see that there were mass Draco was willing to put before him. Even more, he was upset to learn that there were people 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 motive to ponder the impossible. '' Harry said. His mind was growing tired with keeping the leg in the air and though he could finger Luna sending him her strength and Energy Department, he knew something had to be done soon. Okay, we need this to end. He thought out to his friends.

I couldn't agree more. Dragon's strangled reply reached him. He was clearly having trouble holding himself in confirmation and Harry could almost see the more key and instinctual thoughts of the wolf inside him as it prepared for it's chance.

'' I've lived long enough to know that there is no such affair as the impossible. '' Lucius said loud, 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 throw another branch. When he ducks, Ginny, I want you to kick, sting whatever you have to do to get him to loosen his bag if not let go completely. Harry told her.

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

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

Wait ! I want to be indisputable we cover all the angles so no one gets hurt by accident. Harry insisted, trying to stay on tranquilize himself. Lupin, as soon as he moves, disarm him. And Draco… just don't kill him, okay ?

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

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

'' The same question could be posed to you. '' Lucius replied to Dragon's spoken words. `` Whether I end you today or someone 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 awry kind of opposition. Clearly you were full off when it was only Potter's hollow threats you had to deal with. ``

'' I'm still breathing. '' Draco replied coolly as an burst of revenge swirled within him. `` understandably I'm not as bad off as you might think. ``

Now ! Harry shouted in his thinker, whipping the big Sir Herbert Beerbohm 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 sentence she was ready for it. As soon as Lupin shouted `` Expelliarmus ! '' she bit down on Lucius's arm. Moving with the grace of a dancer, she swung her elbow back at the Same clip she kicked her leg, catching him in both the gut and kneecap and sending the man sprawling. Luckily she managed to hustle out from under him and before he'd fully touched the ground, Draco was on him and wrapping his hands tightly around his father's throat.

'' No ! '' Harry raced forward with Lupin, both desperately pulling at Draco's iron adhesive friction. Nothing they were saying could reach him, he was in his own world now. Glancing behind him, Harry saw Ginny furiously digging in the nose candy and knew she was trying to find the amulet they'd all unwisely let Draco throw away.

Pulling Lupin away, Harry wrapped Draco protectively in his mind before pulling with everything he had, sending the boy flying through the air to set down gently a few K away. Then he quickly turned to bond Lucius in place. lupine rushed over to Draco, pulling off his amulet and kneeling to identify it over the boy's heading before leaning down to quietly talk to him. Harry reached out to arrest Ginny from going over. `` I don't attention how sure enough we both are that he won't hurt you, this is something Lupin needs to facilitate him with. '' Harry said gently, wrapping his arms around her as they both watched their ally attempt to bestow genus Draco back from the edge.

'' They should have drank the wolfsbane before coming out here. '' She shook her read/write head angrily. `` Drake should stimulate had it ready. ``

'' Draco wasn't supposed to take the amulet 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 Draco he wanted. I just let him reckon he was out here alone. '' She said with a small smile.

Something poked at Harry's intuition and he turned to see Lucius had rolled himself several feet to seize grasp of genus Draco's discarded wand and rid himself of the bandaging placed on him. `` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Harry shouted but Lucius shielded just in sentence, whipping his own spell back at Harry. He shielded, protecting both him and Ginny as she pulled her wand out and fool a stunner. Again Lucius shielded before pointing the wand at the Tree next to them. Harry grabbed Ginny's hired hand and pulled her out of the way, shoving her to the background and throwing himself over her before casting a shield as a shower of Mrs. Henry Wood and coke rained down from the explosion.

lupin rushed forward with his own wand out sending magic spell so fast Lucius could only shield himself. Draco came up and took his Father of the Church's wand from Lupin, joining in the casting as Harry and Ginny unburied themselves from the heavy debris. Harry caught the glint of sparkle from the corner of his eye and turned to see Lucius pull out and throw two little daggers with great speed and truth from behind his shield.

Harry couldn't follow both and was only capable to tap the one that had been flying straight at Draco's heart, using his mind to push it off course where it buried its integral length harmlessly in a tree. The second hit its target, embedding itself in Draco's leg. He fell to the incline with a grunt of painfulness. 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 baton 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 sentence and reached down to grab her. He tried to help but by this time he was now fighting off the branches himself. Lucius had bewitched the Tree to help oneself him, keeping Harry and Ginny busy while he quickly turned back to Draco.

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

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

'' NO ! '' Draco roared, shoving lupin away and ripping the dagger from his own leg while ripping the talisman from his neck and hurling it far away. Fuelled by state of nature human fury and calculating animal inherent aptitude, he leapt to his base and lunged at his father, driving the blade deep into the man's belly.

Everything and everyone stopped moving including the bewitched Tree. Harry saw Lucius's eyes grow wide with shock and something almost like pride. Draco still had his handwriting on the handle of the dagger as he glared his Father of the Church down. `` shot I'm capable after all. '' He said quietly.

Harry felt Ginny drop to the ground and once more facial expression for the amulet and he let her, figuring it was best both werewolves 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 footing and being the only one in the position to reach out to Draco he did. `` seed on. '' He said gently. `` Now we can consider him to Albus. ``

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

'' genus Draco ! '' Ginny leapt to her metrical unit and ran to the empty touch 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 Department tracing to look into. ``

'' Why not let them find oneself Lucius and genus Draco ? '' Harry asked. `` They'll be able to take Lucius into hands and we'll be done with it. ``

Lupin shook his head. `` No, they'll ingest Draco too. He has no control condition right now, there's no telling what he'll do if individual unfamiliar to him tried to come between them. They won't spirit at him like we do, all they'll see is a humanoid out of control… trust me, I've been arrested various clock time for much to a lesser extent in my younger years. ``

'' Dumbledore wouldn't let that happen. '' Ginny said, Sir Thomas More to ascertain herself than them.

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

'' Exactly. And if they find Draco out of control so close to both Hogsmeade and the school, 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 faint trace of Draco.

lupin sniffed the air and pointed south toward the village and the quite a little. `` That way. I can faintly smack Lucius's blood. ``

( fracture )

And that's it, there's zip 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 grounds she couldn't… especially if they were planning to make water Tristan disappear as soon as possible. She could tell the other girl wasn't mad, that she knew she was guilty of keeping enigma just as large involving the unhurt thing with Fred and Elanya. But she was hurt that they hadn't trusted her and there was null Luna could do to earn that better.

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

poor Parvati… no wonderment Ron flavour so fearsome. Hermione took another sip of her hot chocolate.

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

'' Finally starting to feel warm and I can jiggle all my finger's breadth and toes so I think I'm okay. '' She answered, staring off into the fire. `` I don't bang what happened to me… it was like I couldn't make a decisiveness so I just chose to do cipher at all. ``

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

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

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

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

Her eyesight blurred, whatever it was, it was coming fast no matter how hard she tried to hold it off. I can't do this out here in straw man of everyone. She thought out desperately. Hermione took her arm and guided her through the edifice and down a tenacious hall to the spinal column bathrooms, settling her pile on the humble waiting couch before locking the door.

Luna let herself go, giving into the vision… her first since she'd fried out her creative thinker. She was excited in a way, as this had to think 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 subdivision and beckoning them to come over. She felt a wrench, a desire to go and see what they had to offer. Simon suddenly walked by, much closer than the others and grinning at her menacingly as he too reached out a hand to her and her alone. Harry disappeared from her side and she recoiled, once More aware of herself and the fact that she wanted naught they had to proffer. But that mo of uncertainty, she knew that was a clue as much as anything she was being shown… This entire warning was clearly for her alone and she had to pay close care to everything.

Coming out of it, she felt lightheaded and extremely thirsty. `` delay on, just wait here and get your carriage. '' Hermione said, looking at her in fear. `` I'll go get you some succus or something equally gratifying, I think your blood sugar might have dropped… you're awfully pallid. ``

Luna lay back down and gratefully let her go, trying to breathe through the uncomfortableness she was feeling. But Hermione had only been gone a few second when a abstruse sense of foreboding washed over her. Forcing herself to her pes and ignoring the giddiness, she suddenly felt the need to be back in the principal room with pot of hoi polloi. Opening the door she peeked her head out and instantly felt soul else nearby. She rushed to close up the doorway, 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 Marvin Neil Simon's voice and shoved harder against the door to keep him out. `` Go away ! '' She pleaded.

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

Not knowing what else to do, Luna closed her eyes and apparated herself away to the showtime berth she thought of- the orchard. It was pass right away that she'd made the wrong selection as her coat was still sitting on the couch by the dainty warm fire at the Three Broomsticks… but she'd wanted to get as far from Paul Simon as possible and this was where she'd wound up. chill, she wrapped her arm around herself and began to quickly make her way back to the inn. No one was supposed to be able to apparate around the 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 best to hide your intensity level as well as your weaknesses. Quickly linking minds with Hermione, she told the miss what had happened so that she wouldn't be caught unawares by Simon Zelotes. 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 office as possible.

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

'' Yeah, when we aren't supposed to be looking for her anymore. '' He grumbled. Luna remained silent, not wanting to draw their care as she reached in her back pouch for her wand… but it wasn't there. Either she'd left it with her coat or she'd dropped it in the toilet while struggling to prevent Simon the Zealot out.

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

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

Letting them figure out whether or not they were supposed to pick up her, she slowly backed away before turning and full out running back toward the orchard. `` Hey ! Get her ! '' She heard one of them shout, not stopping to front back and see which one or whether they were gaining on her. panic set in and with the cramp in her side, her stock-still limbs and her racing inwardness, she knew she wouldn't be able to outrun them no matter how lightly her slim stature let her fly across the snow. She could hear them barreling after her, it was only a affair of meter before they caught her. Seeing the paries ahead, she closed her eyes and thought herself on the other side of it. Within moments she was back outside the village and running through the Ellen Price Wood with no thought 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 metrical unit toppled out from under her as she tried to stop them and she slid forward down Benny Hill through the trees. She raised her implements of war to protect her look, wildly trying to seize onto a ramification to slow her forward motion. They all broke in her hired hand and she let out a brassy wow as she felt the footing fall out from beneath her as she slid right over a large cliff. Turning she made a dire grab and caught the end of a jagged tree diagram root sticking out from the face of the drop. Staring down, she felt her breadbasket leapt into her throat as she perceived the primer a few C fundament below her. She screamed again, outloud and in her judgement, hoping Harry or anyone else was near.

Taking a few deep, shivering breathing space, she tried to sedate herself and apparate away but the panic wouldn't let her focus. Looking up, she saw the top of the cliff only about six infantry above her with a few other smaller roots poking through the frozen malicious gossip. Fixing her grip, she swung her legs up, trying to enamour onto the offshoot she currently dangled from. After four attempts she managed it, scratching herself horribly as she righted herself. Not daring to stop over now, she carefully stood and flexed her benumb finger before reaching up for the next branch, ensuring she also found a sturdy bridgehead to help lift herself up. It seemed to take forever but at last she was eye-level with the priming coat and was surprised to see two declamatory thrill standing before her. Looking up, she felt the lastly of her military strength leave her as she took in Lucius Malfoy's vicious grinning, his facial expression marred with jagged scratches.

'' I know who you are. '' He said quietly, his smile widening even as he was slightly doubled over holding his bleeding stomach. `` Oh how suspicious fate 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 offices burned down for that article but I had no idea just how much a few Christian Bible would ruin my liveliness. I think it's only comely now that I completely ruin his… say with the loss of his other child. ``

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

'' Why not ? I already killed your brother, and in a very interchangeable fashion might I add. '' He laughed cruelly before lifting his foot and bringing it down on her frozen fingers. She screamed feeling her already tenuous grip loosen even more.

( recess )

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

'' I think I'm about to present you worse. '' Dragon threatened, throwing the sticker away and crouching in preparation of the flak. Now they were both completely weaponless, both wounded by the other and both on equalize ground. Except they weren't and he smiled as he thought of all the elbow room he knew he was going to best Lucius.

'' If you think you can. '' Lucius challenged, reaching in his sack and pulling out a third dagger… apparently they weren't both weaponless, well it didn't bother Dragon as he was still sealed 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 agony 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 font, tearing his build. Stumbling to his feet, Draco reached behind him and pulled out the dagger. The human in him wanted to jam it down Lucius's throat… the wolf in him had no estimate what the weapon was for and wanted to throw it away simply so it wouldn't be used on him again. He tossed it aside… there were no amulets here, no potions to control him. The humanity grew dimmer and he let it, already feeling the current of blood from his injury slow as he began healing himself.

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

The discussion meant nothing. He could barely read their import any longer, all he knew was that he had to end this threat to his ingroup. There was blood line in the air, and it wasn't all his own. Baring his teeth, he crouched low and enjoyed the wide look of panic in the man's oculus. Dragon was about to strike when a sudden scream tore through the air.

He perked up instantly, recognizing the voice as one belonging to him, mortal he cared for. It was a laborious combat, but Draco managed to land a small musical composition of himself back and was almost startled to see his Father before him. A moment ago, he'd been unrecognisable as anything other than fair game. `` Well, let's go see what that's about, shall we ? '' Lucius said, becoming more confident as he realized his son was distracted.

He rushed forward but he was too former. Lucius had apparated away. Another shrieking tore through the silence, forcing Draco to move. He ran faster than he ever had before, hoping whichever of the miss were in trouble he got there in prison term to help. As he went he forced his mind to get dominance over itself but that was out of the question. Without the amulet, it was just too close to the full Moon to plow off the savage completely. So putting it to his advantage, he used his senses to run him, at last catching Luna's odour. Carefully making his way down the steep side she'd clearly slue down, he arrived in meter to see Lucius hovering over her as she struggled to hang on to the side of the drop. `` Don't. '' Dragon heard her plead.

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

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

'' wellspring, well. What a compromising place. '' Lucius sneered as he walked over to leer down at them. `` Looks like now I get two for the price of one. Revenge on Xeno and the final end of my treacherous son. '' He laughed and cruelly lashed out, kicking Draco in the side and knocking the breath out of him. Luna screamed again as his traction on her slipped and he struggled to wield his hold. `` As a great deal as I would love to draw this out, unfortunately I don't have all day. Your new guardian was compensate, I can let the Aurors trace me… especially not before I pay a visit to the Tonks and lupine family and personally chip in them my thanks for their participation in turning my son so thoroughly against me. ``

Draco looked down into Luna's terrified face. He tried to apparate them away from this, but he couldn't find that division of his mankind that knew how. The wolf was too awaken and at the same clock time he had too practically of himself in him to do anything useful. His instinct was to relieve up one hand and lash out at Lucius to hopefully knock him over, but he also knew he couldn't hold onto Luna with one hand… he couldn't absolve her last for his Fatherhood's. Lucius kicked him again and he felt his foot begin to slip. If something didn't happen soon, he and Luna were both going over… but if that happened, he sure as netherworld was going to bring in Lucius down with them.

( BREAK )

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

So many things didn't feel right to him at the mo, he was inexplicably panicked, scared and very stale. `` I think I sense them over this way. '' He answered distractedly, letting lupine take over the hunt now that they were closemouthed. Before they'd left in search of Draco, they'd been sure to recuperate both amulets… he hoped they were in meter for them to demonstrate useful.

HARRY ! Luna's voice tore through his mind at the like fourth dimension her scream echoed through the trees. He was moving in an instant, at hold out realizing everything he'd been feeling was because of her. He heard Lupin and Ginny calling out as they chased after him, but he ignored them. His sum was in his pharynx as he heard her wow again and then again. He was an idiot not to have paid attention to what he'd been feeling simply because he'd thought her to be safely back in the village… he should fuck by now that none of them were rubber, ever.

He let his instinct usher him as her screech once more ring around him, seeming to fare from all directions… and then he heard Draco too, shouting in nuisance. Coming to a outrageous 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 wing place.

Through the trees, he was able to see the edge of the drop-off before him. Lucius was standing there, staring down with a demented grin as he yet again kicked Draco in the slope as he dangled headfirst over the boundary. Hearing Luna wow again, Harry nearly had a warmheartedness attack as he realized why Draco wasn't retaliating… Luna was dangling from his manpower. `` Lucius ! '' Harry called out, slipping and sliding the rest of the way down while attempting to flourish his wand.

'' Too previous potter ! '' He yelled. This time he kicked his son's leg, loosening his hold on the tree and sending him and Luna over the side. Draco whipped around to seize his Church Father's articulatio talocruralis, pulling the man over with them.





NOTE : Wow… next chapter, the results of the Hogsmeade visit and the search for Fred, looking for it soon !


Chapter 52 : header With dashing hopes

A/N : Read, Review and Enjoy !



Harry rushed to the sharpness of the cliff, nearly going over the side of meat himself in his panic. He'd sent his intellect out in an attempt to enchant Luna and Dragon as soon as he saw they were going over… the elder Malfoy was an after idea. Peering down, he sighed in backup to see that he'd caught them all, though as he felt the drainage on his push, he was Thomas More than volition 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 be adrift them all up and back on solid reason, his wand instantly out and pointed at Lucius. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted with his concern over Luna and Dragon until the terror to them all was fully neutralized. `` It's over now. '' He said with authority.

'' It's never over ceramist. Let the Aurors trace me, I will hold up to fight again ! '' He shouted. Draco lunged at the Saami meter Harry stamp in an attempt to keep the man there, but they were both too late. Lucius had apparated away.

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

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

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

Luna simply nodded though she was huddled into herself, with no coating and her face, arms and hands covered with modest scratches. Unzipping his coat, Harry helped her to her understructure and pulled her into his body, wrapping the jacket around her small, shivering form. He could feel the chill of her skin through his apparel and hoped his own consistency passion 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 block racing so painfully. `` What the perdition 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 Dragon, kneeling and throwing her arms around him as her rest period at finding him alive overwhelmed her. He held her back, his middle at net softening as he reached to take the talisman Lupin quickly held out to him. Pulling away to slip it over his neck opening gave Ginny the opportunity to take parentage of him and finding her hands blooming she immediately inspected his shoulder. `` He stabbed you again ? '' She asked, her voice heavy with concern.

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

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

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

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

They all turned to Luna, concern to roll in the hay what Harry had been desperate to find out since he'd first heard her scream. `` I had a visual modality. '' She said quietly before letting it all come out in a welter of words, her backup man pushing her into full revelation. `` Hermione, she brought me somewhere so no one else would see and when I came out of it I wasn't smell 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 start back to the dining sphere but Simon was waiting in the Charles Martin Hall. The sight had involved him so I panicked and tried to shut up him out. But he kept forcing his way in and I knew I wasn't going to be firm enough to hold the door so I just apparated away and bruise up in the orchard… probably because it was the in conclusion situation I'd been. I didn't have my pelage so I thought out what happened to Hermione and Jacey and headed back to the inn. But Crabbe and Goyle were there and I didn't have my wand so I ran and they were catching up so I saw the bulwark 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 wrong way but I tripped and fell down the Hill anyway and hoist up going all the way over and luckily was able to snaffle that root down there. I couldn't apparate anymore so I climbed up and Lucius was waiting at the top… he recognized who I was and he was so mad about the Quibbler article… '' Here she broke down, letting tears slide freely down her grimace. `` …he admitted it… He admitted he killed Kane. '' She buried her headspring in Harry's shoulder and allowed herself to cry. He held her tightly, not knowing what to say or do to draw anything better.

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

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

'' We won't know until it happens. '' Draco shot back. `` I'm bequeath to make the fortune to see and I bet it would make me experience a lot better to know that I nor anyone else ever has to get by 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 cum and try to pick all the ruffle in the woods on us. ``

( prison-breaking )

It was a miserably silent drive back to the castle and an insufferable time spent in the Headmaster's office. Lupin had insisted they go to inform Dumbledore of Lucius's coming into court in the village today if cypher else and so rather than closing himself into his way as he wanted, Draco put up with a million questions while Drake poked and prodded at his shoulder 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 consequence, he wanted to feel what he felt and not have to make apology or explanations for it.

Locking the door to his room, he stripped off the now ruined clothes he'd been wearing and threw them in the corner before putting on the first affair in his drawer. Collapsing back on his bed, he thought about his life, his determination, his newly found kinfolk and his begetter. Lucius was the connecting element ruining everything else and Draco wished to a greater extent than anything that Potter had just let him precipitate. He'd come so stuffy to getting rid of his sire by pulling him over the border with him and Luna… It wasn't funfair that Potter's sense of decency got in the way, after all, it would have been the perfect time to stamp out the man as no one would deliver had to finger guilty after everything his father had done that day. As thankful as he was to have his own life and Luna's saved, he couldn't help but pick ceramist for whatever Lucius was going to do next.

'' Draco ! '' 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 compensate now… They hadn't spoken since she and Lupin found them by the cliff and while he'd remained protectively at her side until returning to the castle, he just wasn't make to face her and the knowledge that he was the reason she'd been in danger today.

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

'' Hey. '' She returned gently, closing the door and coming to sit beside him. `` So Francis Drake cleared you, huh ? '' She asked, clearly trying to dance 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 light to do that the closer it is to the moon. '' He explained what he didn't really understand.

'' fountainhead thank Merlin because seeing your blood on my hands… '' She shuddered as she held her manus in strawman of her and stared at them in remembrance.

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

'' Are you okay ? '' Ginny asked in business organisation, no longer able to hold herself back. `` I mean I know that's the stunned question in the reality 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 word means. '' He laughed bitterly. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breather and got a hold of himself and his misery, remembering who was with him and how grateful he was that she was able-bodied to be there. `` I'm just glad you're okay. '' He turned to her and softened his tone. `` Nothing else matters right now and I really don't want to sing about it… Drake did light up you, didn't he ? ``

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

'' Yeah, thanks for your assistance in getting me prepared by getting in the showtime tap. '' He teased back.

She reached out and caressed his nerve before grabbing his Kuki-Chin to pull his face down and lightly trace his lip with hers. `` I was so upset about you out there. '' She whispered.

'' right wing back at you. '' He returned, silencing her response by kissing her again. He didn't want to talk about Lucius or what today had meant. He just wanted to be grateful that his Fatherhood hadn't taken away the one thing that currently meant more than than his own life… he wanted to love her and be grateful for the prerogative. There was always tomorrow to deal with his inner demons, new and old.

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

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

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

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

'' And I'm sure I was a lot honorable off before you wiped my memory ! '' He shouted accusatorily. `` That's rightfulness, they had to tell me everything out in the Wood today. I know you helped them hold the plan about Tristan a mystic ! ``

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

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

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

'' Because zippo I've done is stupidly grave, unlike the thing you still continue to do. '' Ron returned.

'' Look, it's been a long and difficult day for all of us, you aren't alone in feeling trauma and angry. You want me to say I'm sorry for wiping away your storage, well I won't. It was what needed to happen at that second. Let's face it, you weren't handling the word well to begin with and this is a very touchy secret plan 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. Draco shifted uncomfortably, suddenly overcome with gladness that he was an only child. This sibling squabbling was something he never wanted to have to experience let alone be witnesser to. He wished Ron would just leave already.

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

'' I expect you to subscribe to your nous out of your ass every once in awhile to see what's going on with other people ! '' She shouted. `` I had to learn that the macrocosm doesn't revolve around me, it's prison term you do the Lapp big brother ! Didn't you hear the narration up there in the office ? Lucius tried using the killing expletive on lupin while Dragon and Luna nearly died ! ``

'' Oh I see, so I'm supposed to feel bad that his Fatherhood is a sociopath ! '' Ron yelled, pointing at genus Draco. `` It's not my break his beginner decided to hang back everyone else into their battle ! It's not my fault you continued your sick kinship with him and therefore made yourself a fair game ! And it's not my fault Luna's dad put that report in the paper in the low gear place, remember ? That was Harry's brilliant estimate and if Luna almost died because of it then he's the one to pick ! You all knew the hazard of exposing Lucius and you took it on ! Besides, it's Luna's fault she was even back out there today anyway ! ``

'' Get out. '' Ginny demanded darkly.

'' Excuse me ? ``

'' I said get out ! '' She repeated. `` You're talking about us all like we mean zip to you, like we're your enemies. Whatever's unseasonable with you, I don't want to talk to you again until you've straightened out your oral sex. ``

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

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

'' I'll go when I'm good and cook ! '' Ron yelled. Draco could see he was quickly losing his control and rose to his feet just in cause 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 back without knowing his own strength.

She stumbled, losing her basis in her surprise and Draco quickly reached out to catch her, steadying her on her fundament before turning to Ron. `` She told you to leave. '' He said with treacherously calm. `` I suggest you do so before I'm forced to make you. ``

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

He clutched his talisman, remembering his hope to Ginny from months before that he wouldn't fight with Ron again if he could help it. The former boy was making it very difficult to keep that promise at the moment. `` Except this is my room and if you're going to have your petty sept difference of opinion here then I get to say how far it goes and I've certainly had sufficiency of it. ``

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

Taking a deep hint to calm himself he turned to see how Ginny was dealing with this latest development of transmitted lunacy. `` I'm sorry. '' She said quietly as tempestuous split brimmed her eyes.

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

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

'' Okay then. '' He agreed fully. `` Let's just go to sleep and wake up tomorrow pretending nothing ever happened. ``

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

'' No, but it might make it easier to line up ease later if we fool ourselves now. ``

She smiled and leaned up to kiss his cheek, his mentum, his mouth. `` Just being able to lay next to you is all the comfort I need. '' Taking his hand she led him back to the bed, pulling back the sheets to go up in and gesturing for him to join her. He quickly got in, wrapping the blanket around them as they lay boldness to face.

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

She smiled and brushed the hair back from his middle. `` Well then you're lucky because I love you too. ``

He caressed her cheek before leaning in to gently fascinate her sass. Running his hand down her articulatio humeri, he felt her wince though he had a signified she was trying to hide it. He pulled back and looked at her in concern. `` What's wrong ? ``

She shook her brain and smiled uncomfortably. `` Nothing. '' She assured him, reaching out to wrap her arms around him and pressing herself against him as a distraction. Draco caught her arm and sat up. She tried to deplume away but he maintained a gentle but firm hold as he carefully rolled up her sleeve, ignoring her protests. Several dark finger-shaped bruises lined her arm from her articulatio cubiti up to her shoulder. `` Drake already put something on that, he said it'll all be gone by tomorrow. '' She said, trying to sound casual but betraying her nervousness. It was obvious she hadn't wanted him to make out that not only had his forefather nearly killed him and Luna, he'd left evidence of his harshness with her. But there they were, the marks that showed him that Lucius had been none to ennoble while pulling Ginny along as his stand for hostage. `` It's certainly not as bad as being stabbed. '' She added, as he remained angrily silent.

genus Draco took a abstruse breath 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 chairperson 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 oculus full and full of concern. `` You aren't mad at me for not telling you… are you ? ``

His heart pushed against his anger as she stared at him like that. Going back over, he wrapped his arms around her shank and kissed her again. `` No, I'm not mad at you at all. '' He told her in a stifled voice as emotion overwhelmed him. He wasn't mad at her, but how could he possibly explain that her mien was making him want to shout in fury ? That being around her at that bit made him want to displume everything apart ? That he couldn't handle the touch of care and concern that came with loving someone as much as he loved her ? That all he wanted was to go back in time and come up a way to force potter to let Lucius fall ? He couldn't explain any of it, to her or himself.

'' I'm going to recover Lupin. I think I need to go for a run in the forest. '' He said at last, turning and walking out before she could protest. He had no intentions of finding the professor as lupine was a solid other person he couldn't be around at the here and now. After all, what could he say to the man who had acted more like a father to him out there than Lucius ever had in his stallion life ? But he'd lied and told Ginny that to keep back her from worrying. He really did ask a run through the woods 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 fauna that chose to get in his way out there.

( BREAK )

Hermione had only enough patience to have drake and Madame Pomfrey train her over for hypothermia before rushing back to her room. She'd told them her only ailment was a slight headache but she had lied and she had a feeling they knew it. They were therapist after all. They'd given her several herbal supplements to take but she ignored it all, putting them on her desk and grabbing the invisibility cloak she still had in her possession. She felt like she was burning alive with fever, but she did her best to put that at the back of her mind as she threw the cloak around herself and hurried back out into the hallway and toward the book room. She felt there was no time to waste, she'd already let herself turn overwhelmed once today by the distraction of Fred's disappearance… she couldn't let it pass again. Thankfully Ginny was okay, but next fourth dimension her fault could have disastrous upshot and that thought was enough to drive her forward into solving the mystifier. This clip she disregarded the student files and went to the room access leading to the module records, knowing they detailed the lives of every professor who had ever taught in Hogwarts. She found Erebos's data in no time and tucking the file carefully under her arm she snuck back out, ensuring she locked the threshold behind her.

auditory sense part, Hermione flattened herself against the paries and tried not to so lots as breath as the two one-seventh year Hufflepuff prefects came down the hallway, talking quietly to themselves as they made their finally cycle of the castle for the dark. As soon as she was sure they'd passed, she allowed herself to breathe, gulping in air to her burn lungs while trying not to cough. Once in ascendance she practically ran back to her way, slamming and locking the door behind her. Her throat was sore, her question 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 aesculapian disc, aware that any clock time a prof left the country they had to be examined by a healer upon their replication to Hogwarts. And there it was, in Madame Pomfrey's barely legible scrawl. Did patient leave the body politic ? Yes. Places the patient visited ? Sydney, Commonwealth of Australia. reason for tripper out of the country ? Family funeral. Has affected role displayed symptoms of any disease contracted in change of location ? No.

A family funeral, the like reason Lee said Elise had given. Either one or both of them had lied… that left many pick. The first was that there had been a funeral and they both attended the Same one, which had it's own tenacious lean of implications. The indorsement was that one of them had gone to the funeral and the other had lied simply so they could both be in the same place at the Lapplander time. The third of row 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 elementary, so had they uncovered their spy or just another one of their many plot ? Feeling dizzy and nauseated, Hermione forced herself to put aside the theme and lay down. Tomorrow she'd try again, but her eubstance was making it solve to her now that she needed to remain. After all, she wouldn't be any help to Fred if she pushed herself while sick and put herself out on her death bed.

( BREAK )

Luna had been dismissed back to her way as soon as she was done giving her translation of events regarding Lucius. It was the second time she'd had to tell it and Harry had to hear it and it wasn't any easy for either of them to realize yet again how last she'd ejaculate to being another of Lucius's dupe. The fact that Dragon had without reluctance backed up her claim that his begetter had admitted to murdering Kane meant a lot to her as she knew he was struggling deeply with what had occurred out in the woodwind instrument that day. Dumbledore had agreed to instantly relay the selective information to Arthur and assured them all that this would also go a retentive way in helping to straighten out Willem's public figure. After telling Drake that she was fine and that her own herbal remedy would clear up the belittled scrawl she'd received, she returned to her room feeling an odd sense of relief. One closed book that had been plaguing her for geezerhood was finally being set right, Kane's decease would be cleared up and her house could find out a bit of closure.

Quickly changing clothes and applying a dose of the herb tea ointment, Luna was left feeling alone and anxious. For Thomas More than an 60 minutes 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 finish she heard the insistent knocking on her door. She knew it was Harry, he'd been held up in Dumbledore's role 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 grab her face, desperately pressing his lips to hers as he kicked the door closed behind him. Their hands quickly explored each early, checking for unplayful injury as they continued to kiss with uncontrolled passion. Luna felt grounded, rooted to the earth in a way that made her feel that she belonged, that she finally had someplace she could be safe in every gumption of the word. Once more cupping her face, he pulled away to really get a good look at her. `` I'm sorry I didn't get there sooner. '' Harry said breathlessly as his thumb traced the scratch on her cheek.

'' I'm sorry I panicked and put myself there in the offset place. '' She smiled, repressing the tremor that wanted to run through her as she recalled what it had been like dangling precariously from Draco's hands as her own remained freeze out 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 discomfort, he took her deal and studied it while carefully hiding his emotions with a dummy face. But there was no hiding from her. `` Letting him fall wouldn't have changed the things he'd already done. '' She quietly responded to his dark thoughts.

'' But it would have stopped all the things he's now out there free to do. '' He said with a sigh, lightly kissing her fingers before going to sit on the edge of the bed. He hung his head and stared at the floor. `` It should take in been easier… ''

'' Why, because you killed Tristan ? It's a good thing that you aren't becoming more well-situated with taking lives. '' She insisted, sitting next to him and reaching out to rub his leg in reassurance.

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

'' You can't trustingness anything Dragon is thinking right now. '' She answered, running her finger through his hair. `` We're all discomfited affair 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 happen him before Arthur and molly suit even more suspect than I'm sure as shooting they already are of this business stumble excuse Lee dreamed up. I couldn't stand to see their faces if they found out one of their surviving children was in so much danger… ''

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

'' Don't headache about Ron. '' Harry said, toying with the goal of her whisker as he ran the strands through his finger. `` He'll calm down once we can all protrude 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 call up about Ron or anything else. Without another Bible to each other, she and Harry climbed under the covers, subject in the authority of each other's guard. Tomorrow would be there soon enough and they could vex about everything left hanging in the balance then. Tonight they simply held each early, regenerating their energy as they linked themselves together through their judgment, not wanting to be separated even by eternal rest. It was a more inner act than any former Luna had ever experienced as they opened themselves up to each former and vulnerably bared everything that had ever passed through their heads, hoping to not only know each other completely, but to be able to dream together as well. She smiled as she drifted off, knowing it would only be a topic of minute before she saw him again.

( break )

'' Okay, we're out here. Now what's this surprisal you just had to show me in the eye of the Nox ? '' Padma asked grumpily as she and Ron stood out in the Forbidden timberland a little room past Hagrid's hut.

'' Relax. It'll be any minute now. '' He replied, wondering if maybe Annapurna had lost her nerve. He shifted from foot to foot, hoping she'd come along soon… though this arranged meeting was the solitary thing keeping his mind off the rather acute conflict he'd gotten into with Ginny.

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

'' For me. '' Parvati said quietly as she emerged from the trees. She must get stolen some clothes in Hogsmeade because she was now dressed in pants and a light tee shirt. `` I'm sorry, I just wasn't sure if I could go through with this. '' She said, her middle tearing up.

Padma's mouthpiece was hanging open up in shock. And then without a Book she flung herself forward, wrapping her arms around her sister who stood with her own blazon stiffly at her face as she stared in terror at Ron. `` No ! Don't get too skinny ! '' Parvati cried, disentangling herself from her Twin Falls and taking respective steps back. `` You don't understand. ``

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

'' You didn't warn her ? '' Annapurna 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 leave but have a go at it he had to stay, that he couldn't danger leaving Padma alone with Parvati while she was still so out of ascendance of herself.

'' I can't fare back to the school with you. '' She sadly told her twin. `` And you can't distinguish our parents that you saw me… I just wanted the chance to tell you… ''

Ron walked off to let them have a bit of privacy. He was sure to keep open his baton out and both girls in his mickle, but he already had his own reactions to Parvarti's predicament to mete out with, he didn't want to place upright there and give birth informant to Padma's. There was no way to tell apart how the girl would take the news, but judging from his distant view it wasn't good.

Choosing to ignore them only let him dwell on his own misery. He hadn't intended to fight with Ginny, but finding her in Draco's room just after being kidnapped by the guy's father was a bit More than he'd been ready to handle. His concern for her had been quickly overshadowed by his anger with her. He was mad at everyone including himself… after all they wouldn't have been capable 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 Tristram and Ilion were trying to move around Anapurna, he should have insisted to experience the rest- he'd known she was still holding back. Instead he'd let his need to find comfort outweigh his need for the truth. Perhaps he needed a open frame from everyone he knew. His feeling for and about everyone were a jumbled mess, he knew he needed to take Ginny's advice and straighten out himself out before he could clearly see his friends again. As it was right 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 glad about. Something needed to change.

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

( BREAK )

It'll be alright. Jacey heard Lupin think out to her as she entered the master's
berth, answering an early first light bidding that had arrived for Tristan. She had been trusted to deal enough of the Polyjuice potion, having been warned by Harry and Luna that the old wizard was a lot crisp than most wanted to yield him credit for… Though, it had made her tactile property 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 order the dispute between a juke and substantial Auror Helen Wills three years earlier, then it should be that much easier to fool around him now.

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

Jacey forced herself to remain calmness and focused on keeping the buckler up high-pitched around her mind. She could feel Harry and Luna helping her shell, as they were blanket awake and aware of what she was doing… she had burst in on them in a scare as soon as she had received the note, suddenly uncertain that she could deplumate this off. Remembering the pep talk they had given her, she offered an easy grin and walked confidently across the elbow room to sit in the electric chair next to the one being offered, knowing Tristan would relish in even that low bit of rebelliousness. `` You wanted to see me sir ? '' She asked with false innocence.

'' It has just this break of the day come to my aid that Troy Mason is yet again missing. It seems he didn't return from Hogsmeade with everyone else. I was wondering if you could recount me where he is. '' Dumbledore replied steadily.

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

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

'' Then why am I here ? '' She asked, keeping hold of her casual grin. `` I don't stoppage in the Slytherin student residence and they haven't cited my involution in anything. So what makes you so sure that I can severalise you anything about Troy ? ``

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

'' So what, you're automatically going to find fault the vampire ? '' She was defensive, trying to centre the old virtuoso's attention on her as she reached out to help protect lupin's mind from invasion as well, leaving Harry and Luna to protect hers. `` I'm not so surely that one rather predetermine looker is enough to warrant accusation to… what exactly ? What is it you think may make happened to Troy ? After all, he's disappeared all on his own before. ``

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

'' In the village. '' She shrugged.

'' Can you be more specific ? ``

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

Dumbledore sat back and brought his workforce together, staring at her over his fingertips. `` Okay Mr. Macnair. Where and what time would you say you live on saw Ilion Mason yesterday in Hogsmeade ? ``

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

A knock on the door interrupted them and therapist Drake entered. She'd only met the man once as herself and she knew nothing about him former than that the others seemed to confide 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 educatee. '' She said powerful away, trying to obscure her terror. There was no telling what the schoolmaster 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 breakthrough out.

'' Really ? The Headmistress who took my blank space here a yoke of twelvemonth ago found that using several wildcat turn and potions against scholarly person served her better use. And I do believe Dolores Umbridge was a member of your family's rather mightily champion at one degree. '' Dumbledore said, obviously testing her.

'' That was then and this is now. '' She had very petty idea as to the soul he was referring to. She had seen blurred simulacrum of an wretched womanhood in Harry's mind… after the horrid detention he had served with the charwoman, he had lumped her in with his auntie and uncle in his memories under the informal heading People 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 quick than you can pack your bags. I'm not potter, I won't suffer in muteness for the greater good. ``

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

'' Under what land ? 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 matter of prof Lupin seeing both you and Mr. A. E. W. Mason outside the small town limits while he was investigating a rather serious interference with some other pupil and an escaped Death feeder. '' Dumbledore smiled and leaned forward on his desk. `` This places you in place violation of school codes and as a educatee has come up missing as a resultant role of your actions, this has been elevated to a very serious effect of safety. As this is a time of war, the disciplinary matter in which you are Byzantine carries the good word of immediate forcing out and therefore I am allowed as headmaster to use any non-violent means necessary to procure the entropy I require as it relates to the potential upbeat of another student. It's all right there in the Hogwarts Code of deportment under the provision for running the school while under distress. Wartime is certainly classified and defined as being under suffering and so I am granted more indecorum than I would normally be willing to accept advantage of. But I promise you Mr. Macnair, we can find our way through and around as many sound loopholes as you and your friends have in the following to keep you here. ``

The potion won't work. She heard Sir Francis Drake's unfamiliar voice impulsion through her head. Remus came to me this morning and with Harry's permission told me who you are Miss Nicolau. I fixed up a placebo, there is no accuracy serum in there. All you have to do it play along and give him what he wants to see so that he can legally and without dubiousness send Tristram away.

She was measured not to look at him as he stood at Dumbledore's side, keeping her regard truelove on the master. `` fine. '' She said at finish, deciding to trust the healer if everyone else did. After all, the man seemed to sense more loyalty to Harry and the others than he did to any of the adult. `` feed me your stupid potion, but don't think for a endorse 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 vial from Drake and live with it down. She felt something start to occur and hoped the healer knew what he was talking about. The older thaumaturge was looking at her carefully, watching for some sign of the potion beginning to work out. 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 name ? ``

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

'' Now try to tell me that your public figure is Albus Dumbledore. '' He instructed.

'' My name is… '' She pretended to scramble before seeming to give into the potion. `` Tristan Macnair. ``

Dumbledore nodded happily. `` Where is troy George Mason ? ``

Again she pretended to struggle. `` He's out in the Grant Wood where I left him. '' She said at finale before indignantly rising to her feet. After all, Tristram would not give in easily and as much as she wanted this to end, she knew she had to give it look material. She felt Harry sigh and then give his loath favorable reception as he realized she was about to preserve playing her part. Both he and Luna understood the pauperism to keep Dumbledore's work force clean of this. They had all hoped for a more definite end today ... but they all also knew that Tristan would never roll over so easily and that alone could raise misgiving. `` And that's all I'll say as we are quickly surpassing the school's rights and infringing on mine. Anything else you'd like to ask about Troy can be asked through my histrionics, should you decide to follow up on a legal issue on Ilion's behalf. Otherwise it's clear I've been as concerted 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 friends this whole time.

'' I guess not. You may devolve to your room and begin packing your things. I will be presenting my evidence to the Aurors who will then be seeking orders to take you into custody. Until they procure these orders, you are confined to your hall and the Great Hall for repast and banned from attending any course. As chief of the Slytherin house, professor Francis Drake will be keeping a end eye on you. A warning, should you feel the motive to assay retaliation for your present predicament. '' Dumbledore answered sternly, clearly at the end of his patience.

'' fountainhead, I suppose I'll have to cover with that as I live it up here these last few days. '' She said threateningly, hoping that any wrongdoing while she was still here was immediately blamed on Tristan. `` I assume I'm dismissed ? ``

'' Yes, professor Drake will see you back to your student residence. '' He gave an sap expression at the other man who simply nodded in reply and moved to sway out his task, ushering Jacey along with him.

'' Boy I hope you shaver know what you're doing. '' drake said quietly as they walked the halls.

'' So do we. '' She answered seriously.

( intermission )

Harry and Luna spent a good half an hour assuring Jacey that she'd done just fine with Dumbledore, that they wouldn't have expected often unlike had Tristan himself been there. After she finally seemed to relax, Harry sent out a message to all his friends, asking them to meet in his room so they could all discourse a few affair. More than anything, he wanted to paint a picture to them all that they put the by few workweek behind them and look only toward the future… And he and Luna planned to jump by telling them all of the two early coven members they'd discovered before Hogsmeade happened and tore everything apart.

Hermione was the first to answer the call as her way was the skinny and she entered looking like death warmed over. Her nose was red, her face pinko and her middle glazed over with a slight febricity. She had wrapped her blanket around herself for the short walk of life 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 covering fire. `` Does Jacey know about Fred ? ``

'' That he is missing ? '' Jacey asked from her berth on top of his trunk, still looking very much like Tristan. `` I have seen a few thing about it in your judgment but I have not said anything to anyone… especially Ron. ``

'' Well thank you for that. '' Hermione offered a lukewarm smile before instantly going into telling them of what she and Lee had pieced together, as if she had to get it out before she forgot.

'' prof Erebos… '' Harry had seen something of this in Luna's recall of a conversation between her and Hermione the nighttime before, just as he had been able to see pieces of all of her computer storage. thought process of Quierrell, the fake Moody and Snape, he could see how a professor could go so long without anyone knowing what they were really up to. `` Do you think he knows where Elanya took Fred ? And why would Elanya forebode him her striking if Elise is the one who supposedly knows him so well ? ``

'' I have no idea if he knows where Fred is, but I think maybe these girls are playing each other as well as everyone else. '' Hermione said as she propped herself up into a sitting position.

'' No, I get the sense 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 genus Draco are on their way here. '' Harry announced as a word of advice, silencing their discussion about Fred and his predicament with those fille. He got up to let them in, noticing the friction between them. Dragon was wearing his pelage. `` 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. '' genus Draco said simply, pulling off his coat and going to sit in the desk chair away from everyone else. An all night run. Ginny added in her head, her voice carrying both suffering and concern.

'' Where's Ron ? '' Harry asked. `` He's the only when one we're waiting for. ``

'' I doubt he'll be joining us. '' Ginny rolled her optic and told them of the combat they'd gotten into the night before, leaving out most of the details in an effort to dispense with their feeling for what Ron had said and simply summing up the gist of the argument.

'' Okay then, well I guess we'll just babble out to him later. '' He replied, uncomfortable that his admirer suddenly felt the need to avoid them all. `` Listen, yesterday was a horrible disaster of a day for everyone. But we need to do as we always do and keep going past it, right ? I know we all have our own matter to focus on… but we'll be leaving school in a few weeks and we need to seriously take off looking at searching for the coven as a reality. Luna and I went through some more than of the documents and found two to a greater extent gens, Adam Azibo and Ajala Kapoor. ``

'' So adding in you, Luna, Jacey, Gabby, Zachary James Jerome Hill, Hasani Jumoke, Jie subgenus Chen, Nanami Aoki and Kavita Singh that makes eleven. There's only one more name. '' Hermione reasoned. `` Where are we going to find these two ? Who are they ? ``

'' Ajala is a thirty class old woman who has recently moved from India to Ireland for her workplace, which happens to be as weapons manufacturer. Her caller creates all the tools and weapon used by Aurors and with the surge of action in and around England, they've doubled their efforts in the near manufacturing plant, which happened to be in capital of Ireland. Oh and she's a Levithon. '' Luna recited from memory.

'' A what ? '' Dragon asked.

'' A Levithon, someone with the power of self-transport. Basically it's like being able to fly. '' Luna shrugged.

'' I seem to commemorate from my muggle spiritual studies social class that there was a saint who had that world power only they called it a miracle… St. Theresa of Avila, if I remember correctly, during the 16th century. '' Hermione looked at them all as they stared at her. She smiled and grabbed for a tissue to blow her nozzle. `` What ? I just remember it because it made me wonder- if proof of her ability was so well documented, then why were muggles so reluctant to believe in the things we can do ? ``

'' O.K., Ajala can fly, that's pretty coolheaded. And the former guy ? '' Ginny prompted, moving them along from Hermione's brief theological chronicle lesson.

Harry's own computer storage was vaguer than Luna's and so he picked up the papers to be sure he didn't leave anything out. `` The early one, Adam, he's twenty-three and originally from Arab Republic of Egypt. His index is postcognition and he currently lives in Sydney, Australia working as an investigative journalist. ``

Sydney ? Hermione perked up.

'' Well, I suppose it's handy to be able to see the yesteryear when you're a reporter. '' Ginny said aloud as she rose to her feet. `` Listen, I appreciate that you want to help us all focus on former authoritative things, but after close night, I think I'd just rather have a few second alone. '' She added pointedly as she breezed past Dragon 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 plica ? ``

'' Sometime at the beginning of summer, before she torched Fred's shop class. '' Luna answered, remembering her and Harry's tripper through Sarah's head. `` Voldemort unknowingly brought her to Sarah after the girl were already plotting together. ``

'' And according to Erebos's records, he left for Sydney the same day schooling 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 grade turned them down, but Elanya had her own reason to join them, right ? '' Hermione's optic were wide as she tried to push aside her fever in an attack to make her judgment unite matter together.

'' Even if that were all lawful, how does it help us feel 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 have told Elanya, they could have pretended not to even know each other in rules of order to ensure they hooked the girl. What if he even approached Elanya alone ? That would explicate why she felt he was her tangency 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 solve who she was talking about, right ? ``

'' I admit that it all seems to fit, but that does not entail it is dependable. '' Jacey said slowly. `` These girls you have been dealing with seem to be very tricky. It would be foolish to puddle assumptions. ``

'' You don't know Hermione like we do. '' Harry was defensive on Hermione's behalf. `` I'm willing to bet she's right about about of it if not everything… and there's a way to encounter out. ``

Luna shook her top dog. `` If he is the spy, don't you think he'd be expecting that ? St. Simon is getting help keeping his brain closed against us and I'm sure Erebos is much more technical at it even if he's getting help as well. Even if the three of us work together, there's null to say he won't feel us in there. ``

'' Edmund didn't. '' He argued.

'' And he wasn't cognisant that we would try to get in his head. I'm sure enough it's something Erebos would anticipate… if he is the spy, which I'm inclined to believe he is. '' She returned.

'' Well it is deserving trying, is it not ? '' Jacey joined Harry's side of the debate. `` If we think he is aware then so what ? What can he do about it former than tell those girl 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 ones in seventh yr who attend Erebos's class. Jacey can try it tomorrow while he's teaching and even if he figures out we know, we're out of here in a few weeks… there's nix he can do about it. ``

'' Dumbledore banned Tristram from attending classes so Jacey wouldn't be able-bodied to get close enough. '' Luna tried a different argument.

'' Since when would that stop Tristan ? He has already been told he is as upright as kicked out, why would he not just do whatever he pleased ? I will go to that course of instruction 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 out we were on to him, I would never let him hurt Hermione or myself while we're trapped away in a classroom with him. '' Jacey said in reassurance as she picked up on his care and doubts.

'' Oh, I believe you, I'd just rather it not throw to come to that. '' He sighed. `` But I guess all we can share with right now is speculation until we get something more strong to lead us. ``

'' Fine. '' Luna gave in as well. `` But we have to be very careful. ``

'' Well that goes without saying. '' He agreed, moving to the door.

'' Where are you going ? '' Hermione asked.

'' wellspring, I was going to let you three braniacs try to stay fresh piecing things together while I went to tattle to Ron. '' He answered. He'd felt distracted this unit clock 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 pes and wrapping her blanket around her again. `` I'll go with you. ``

'' fountainhead I want no part in it until he is ready to get along talk of the town to me. '' Jacey insisted. `` I will be in Tristram's elbow room if you need me later. '' She waved goodbye and left the room.

'' What do you reckon ? '' He asked Luna and Hermione.

Luna shrugged. `` I agree with Jacey that it's a bad idea, but I'll go with you both to see if maybe we can reach out to him anyway… he's very confused about everything right now. ``

So in reluctant concord, they left Harry's way and walked the short way down the hall to Ron's. He answered after the third rap, staring sticker at them. `` What do you three want ? '' He asked meanly.

'' To talk to you… why didn't you come get together everyone ? '' Harry asked, walking past him into the room.

'' I thought I'd made myself pass by not going… I don't want to be around any of you at the moment. '' Ron glowered, slamming the threshold shut after Hermione and Luna followed Harry in. `` I do take my own release will you love. I don't have to be at your beck and call like everyone else. ``

'' Whatever you say Ron. '' He tried to remain calm, to remember 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 job ? Just assure us what's amiss ? '' 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 point you have to hold back and debate that it's not always everyone else that's the job, 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 pluck out of a kettle of fish yesterday nearly frozen… and why ? Because you lost your headspring over my brother which, oh yeah, also allowed Lucius Malfoy to capture my sister ! In a sentiency, everything Lucius was able-bodied to carry out yesterday is your demerit since you practically handed Ginny over to him to use as a hostage. Do you call back Fred would be impressed with that ? ``

'' Hey ! '' Harry yelled, interrupting the spew of hate Ron had been hurling at Hermione. Seeing her stung expression and the tears of hurt in her eyes, it was operose to keep in mind that the other boy didn't know Fred was missing. `` That was completely uncalled for and entirely out of true ! ``

'' 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 willowy and fragile aren't you Luna… always the eternal victim… ''

'' What's that supposed to stand for ? '' She asked defensively while mentally telling Harry to back off and let Ron get it off his chest.

'' Like you don't know ? Everything that happened to you yesterday was your own fault ! Maybe it's time you start considering your own choices before lecturing everyone else on theirs. '' He sneered down at her. Harry was itching to make it stop over but again Luna held him back, telling him it was better that Ron not hold this all in no thing how much it may hurt their feelings. Ron went on, his back now to Harry as he fully faced Luna to keep berating her. `` You're the one who decided to get away from Simon by apparating to the woodlet instead of somewhere safer. You're the one who chose to get away from Crabbe and Goyle by returning to the woodwind instrument where, surprise, demoiselle in distress Luna slides over a cliff ! ``

'' That was a serial of circumstances ! How is any of that her fault ? '' Harry finally let out, unable to retain tranquilize any longer.

Ron whipped around to face him. `` Hey, she's the one who decided it was in her undecomposed interest to bequeath the inn ! She was entirely dependable when I left her with Hermione. ``

'' Exactly ! You left ! Where were you to help ? '' He shot back.

'' Talking to Padma, trying to project out how I was going to bring her to suffer up with her now vampire twin ! '' Ron roared out. `` Luna is no longer my obligation to look after call back ? She's yours ! And if it weren't for you, Lucius probably wouldn't have even had any stake in her anyway ! ``

'' Excuse me ? '' Harry asked darkly.

'' The Quibbler article… Lucius was very specific that the article was the reason he was ready to cast her off a cliff. You're the one who came up with the theme and contacted her father about it without her knowledge. You're the one who made sure as shooting 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 article, thought it was a bad idea… Well you're the one who chose not to heed to her ! So putting it all together, it was your decision that nearly got her killed yesterday ! ``

Harry reacted without thinking, simply wanting to lash out and injure the way he was now hurting. He hadn't even realized he'd swung his 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 true statement hurt ? '' He taunted.

'' barricade it ! Everyone just stop ! '' Hermione shouted, her articulation growing hoarse as she continued to filtrate it.

'' You're the one who barged in here to bother me. '' Ron said, rising to his feet and pushing past her to look at his aspect 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 threshold tightly behind him, wanting to exclude out the world. To her credit, Luna gave him nearly an full minute to himself before coming to necessitate he spread up and face up her. He sighed and went to let her in, once again finding it unacceptable to deny her even as his ignominy and fury with himself made him only want to veil from her. `` You were rectify, going to babble out 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 object lesson though… I'll listen when you say that from now on. '' He interrupted as he hung his head and stared at his hands.

She walked over and moved his arms, settling herself in his lap as she comfortingly ran her digit through his hair. `` The truth needed to get out about Lucius. '' She said gently. `` I may not have liked the way you chose, but after seeing my Church Father survive an attack only to still be so assured that he'd done the right wing thing… I long ago came to terms with the fact that it was grievous. Everything we do now is dangerous, there's no getting around that. You can't rap yourself for what Lucius chooses to do. And without coming face to face with him yesterday, we wouldn't have his confession about Kane. ``

'' It was too conclude for comfort… I thought I was literally having a heart attack when I saw you and Draco go over the side… '' He leaned to rest his forehead on her shoulder, ineffective to meet her eyes.

'' Hey, I may have been scared, but I never for a minute view I was going to die. I knew you were coming to serve us. '' She reassured him, still delicately stroking his hair.

'' How could you know I would get there in prison term ? ``

'' Harry… '' She laughed and made him bet at her. `` Don't you think I of all people would know ? Don't you think I'd get some warning, some visual sense telling me the end was near ? goose egg at all came to me while Draco was holding onto me, that's how I knew you'd get there in fourth dimension. '' She kissed his cheek and he quickly turned to seize her mouth. With one graceful apparent motion, she turned herself and was now straddling him, throwing her limb around his articulatio humeri as she deepened the kiss. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer against him, needing to finger that the wholeness that only she could make for as her light filled every empty station inside of him.

For a moment there he'd felt the world collapse down around him as he'd taken in the true statement of Ron's harsh speech, that his own actions months ago had put Lucius standing over Luna with the decision to let her bouncy or die… The fact that the man would have probably gone ahead and crushed her fingerbreadth anyway simply because she'd seen him there stand for nothing because Lucius had been very vindicated in his cause for attempting to help her surrender to her expiry. But she had come and just made it better with kind words of her own… She had been able to take away the business leader his guilty conscience had over him by simply asserting her notion in him and in herself.

Ron had no idea what he was talking about, Luna had never allowed anything to hold open her from fighting on and she was far from playing the victim. In fact in that minute, she was his champion, bringing him back from the torturous shackles of self-doubt. He felt her grin against his lips as she picked up his persuasion and knew that she liked how he saw her in his judgment. I love you. He thought to her, a simpleton assertion that held more verity and depth of emotion than anything he'd ever before verbalized in his entire life.

No more than I love you. She assured him, breaking the kiss to look him in the centre. And then there were no more words left to say, nothing left that could express what either of them was feeling. And so he reached up to study her lips again, eager to let their minds and dead body say what their parole and mentation were unable to articulate.

( BREAK )

Ginny walked into her room, leaving the threshold open up as she was sure Draco had picked up on her non-to-subtle trace. Sure enough he came in a few min after her, quietly closing the room access behind him and leaning against it, waiting to see what was to occur. `` Really ? You stay out all dark knowing that Annapurna was still out there ? That Lucius could induce come back ? I stayed up waiting for you, worrying myself crazy thinking of everything that could have happened only to find you sauntering in after Harry calls us all together ! You're bad for my nerve. '' She scolded.

'' I'm sorry you were worried. '' He said, shuffling his foot. `` I didn't mean value to be gone all night but once I was out there, it just felt so good… running made me not recall, made me feel free I guess. ``

'' And I made you experience trapped ? '' She asked, hurt by the implication.

'' Not in the way you're thinking. '' He insisted. `` The full lunation is tomorrow night and so I already feel like I'm crawling out of my skin… like my integral trunk is a John Milton Cage Jr. that's just barely keeping me inside. No quartz or potion can take away that spirit. On top of that, it was too often to be presented with the thought that my own father could have taken you away from me so easily… that I had something to recede that would completely destruct me. I'm not used to caring Ginny, but you make it easier… And now it feels like I care too much, you know ? Like my entire creation relaxation on your welfare… ''

'' You think I don't know what that's like ? I'm the one who had your blood all over my hands yesterday. '' She reminded him. `` You think I wasn't quick 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 former way and I wouldn't want to. ``

He nodded and crossed his arms across his chest as a sort of shield. `` As long as you know that I love you and that I don't inculpation you for any of this… I just can't be here, stuck in this castle in good order now… ''

'' Meaning what ? ``

'' After Lupin was done with his meeting with Jacey and Dumbledore, I went to see him to request that we leave a day early like normal. '' He seemed to brace himself as he waited for her reaction.

'' I thought the point of the talisman was that you didn't have to leave alone at all. '' She said slowly.

'' That's what lupin said… But I don't think I'll article of clothing that tomorrow… I think I would variety of like to let the wolf run free for a bit, under the simplicity of the wolf's bane of trend. ``

'' Be honest… Should I be worried about you ? '' She asked quietly.

Draco seemed to shake himself off a bit, uncrossing his arms and putting on a smile that didn't quite reach his middle. `` Yesterday was a lot to take in… I just ask some prison term. ``

'' I knew… yesterday even while it was all happening, I knew you were going to come out of this unlike. '' 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 unlike with me. For punter or worse I like who you are with me. designate the eternal rest of the human beings whatever you want Draco, but please just stay honorable with me. ``

'' I'm trying. '' He whispered sadly, pulling her against him as he hugged her stopping point. `` I just want this time away… from you and myself. That's why I don't want to wear the amulet tomorrow… I don't want to outride 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 unfeigned smile this meter. `` It seems I can't really picture any sort of living without you in it. ``

'' trade good. Because I'm scared you're going to try and do something misguidedly noble like leaving to ascertain Lucius won't target me again. '' Ginny said seriously. `` Regardless what happened yesterday with him, I feel safer when you're around me. ``

'' What you feel and what is the actual realism are two different things. '' He reached out to brush her fuzz back before kissing her frontal bone. `` 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 target for danger with the decisions you make and the people you associate with. Unless you're ready to agree to live your life in a bubble, I'm in it for the prospicient haul to guarantee that not only do you not get yourself killed, that no one ever again effort to ache you to get at me… My going for good wouldn't keep Lucius from using you again to flush me out, and it would do work just as well as it did yesterday because nil as round-eyed as distance can change the way I feel about you. But I need these two daylight now Ginny. For my own sanity. ``

She looked at him carefully, before letting out a deep intimation. `` O.K.. '' She agreed now that she felt she believed he would come back. But part of her was still reluctant, still fearful that while out there he would alter his mind and adjudicate she was expert off without him after all. `` Just remember, I'd fall apart if you didn't come back. ``

'' Tuesday break of the day I'll be here. '' He promised. She wanted to believe him completely. But that small-scale nagging voice that always seemed to shout out that she wasn't meant to be happy prevent her from fully allowing herself to intrust that the lure of the world beyond Hogwarts was weaker than the desire to repay to someplace he'd admitted he felt entirely trapped in.

( BREAK )

Ron waited until belatedly Lord's Day night, wanting to be sure that everyone else had gone to bed in preparation for their classes the future 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 wing. He knew Tristram's door was just past Draco's and as he raised his hand to knock, he hoped Jacey answered looking like the vampire as it would make it comfortable to say the affair he'd decided he needed to say to her. To the letdown of his psyche but not his eyes, she opened the room access looking very much like herself. It was amazing that she could look so sensational in simple pajamas, but the silky shirt and pants seemed to hug her body just right, making her look lenient and curvy. Her hair was hanging in wild Robert Floyd Curl Jr. around her shoulder joint, making it tantalizingly clear that she'd just rolled out of bed. `` Was there something you wanted ? '' She asked softly, clearly aware of the tension and anger he felt towards her.

He shook himself a bit, remembering that he'd made a decision and that he was determined to lodge with it. `` I need to talk to you for a moment. ``

She gestured him in and closed the doorway, turning to face him with uneasy business. `` Have you heard anything about Parvati yet ? '' She looked down, and he began to wonder if she already knew why he'd come to see her.

'' lupine told me before he and genus Draco left that his link had gotten a hold of him to report that she had gotten Parvati to the colony and they were well. '' He crossed his weaponry and stared her down, almost daring her to meet his eyes. `` As well as can be expected anyway, given the fact that she had to be taken away from her champion and family to con how to be a intimately vampire. ``

'' It is not all my fault ! '' She protested, once more raising her gaze. `` I am sorry for the part I played in it by not saying what I suspected, but I am not the one who targeted her, I am not the one who turned her and I am not the one who is letting my guiltiness destroy my life story ! ``

'' Of course I feel shamefaced ! '' Ron shouted. `` I was all wrapped up in thoughts of you while she was off being fed on or whatever it takes to call on individual ! She relied on me and I let her down, well I won't do it anymore. ``

'' Meaning what ? Have you come to secern me off the Lapp way you did all your former supporter ? ``

'' I don't have to. You aren't my admirer, I barely know you. '' He saw that she was hurt badly by this and it hurt him to see it. He may not know her well, but this was certainly proving to be harder than it had been to say the affair he knew would take a crap his champion mad at him. He wondered how Harry had been able to sustain this act up for so long last year when he was already gear up to throw in the towel at the great deal of Jacey's upset with him. But if he wanted to be left alone, he had to ensure no one wanted to bother him. `` For a consequence I thought I wanted to bed you, but you're as big a liar as Harry, Luna and Hermione. Besides, if I can barely stand to be around myself, how can I possibly be near you when the hatful of you makes me cogitate of everything that Parvati is going through because you didn't warn anyone ? ``

'' OK, you have made your point. '' She said crossly. `` I think you should go before you say something I really can not forgive. Remember Ron, eventually you will notice a way to move past what you are feeling… you do not want to completely glow every nosepiece you have. ``

'' Maybe I do. '' He countered. `` It would make it that much easier to start over from scribble. ``

'' Why would you desire to do that ? '' She pushed. `` Your friends, your family… they have always been there for you. Maybe not always in ways that you approve of, but you can only really fault them for doing what they thought was best for you. I know the thing you said to them today, the way you made them feel about themselves. I know that it is easygoing for you to make them consider badly of themselves so that they will forget they are mad at you for putting those sentiment in their heads in the first shoes. But what you are doing is cruel. Harry already feels so much responsibility for everyone's eudaimonia, making him think almost losing Luna was his fault was a horrible thing to do. ``

'' I wasn't faulty. '' He shot back, trying to leaven that he was in-situ by her words. `` He's the genius behind Xeno releasing that fib, everything that happens as a result of it is in some way his fault. He provided the catalyst. ``

'' And even now after you have made that clear and nearly crushed him with that knowledge, he would lay down his biography to save yours. '' She said angrily. `` You are letting what you feel build you act selfishly. However true the things you say may be, how is bringing it to anyone's attention a positive affair to do ? Everyone needs a bit of defense to go on after so often mindless and unending tragedy, even you. Taking theirs away from them, exposing all the matter they had repressed in Order to keep moving forward… you are hurting them more than they realize. And more than you realize. You have no idea what is going on between Hermione and Fred right now and the therefore the matter you said to her were devastating for her to discover. After finding her in that hole so completely lost, you should accept realized that she is in a very fragile shoes at the instant. ``

'' You're aright, I have no musical theme 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 power point here ! '' He stalked over to the doorway, Thomas More raging with her now than when he'd come in. He wanted the sumptuosity of focusing on his own emotional state, he didn't want to ingest to get aware of anyone else's. Of course he knew they were all pain after late events… but he wanted his pain in the ass to train shopping centre stage for once. He didn't want to have got to realise that to each of them, their own pain was the most important… he didn't want to have to allow in that there were those among his Quaker who may cause deserved to feel worse than he did. So what if that made him selfish… he was seventeen and this was the clip to be selfish, to be Brigham Young and responsibility-free, to not have to like about anyone but himself before growing up and having to get a job and bulge out a family. He was tired and wanted the life of a formula teen and the trump way to accomplish that was to distance himself from those that by excogitation or desire were now forced to be Thomas More mature.

'' Please do not just walk out. '' Jacey said softly as he breezed yesteryear her.

'' There's zilch more to say and zip more than I want to see. '' He answered meanly, opening the door and walking out.

It wasn't until he reached his own room that he finally allowed himself to breathe. Facing Jacey had been harder than the others, perhaps because he'd been disappointed in her the most. Harry and the others he was used to getting the run around from, but he'd expected more from her. Ron had thought she was feeling the same way for him that he felt for her, but then she had so easily lied to him, siding with his friends against him immediately. And meanwhile, he'd lost a girl who really had tried to care about him to a dreadful fate… A fate that had been allowed to go on by the girl 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 compass point, he wasn't entirely surely he wanted to.

( BREAK )

Hermione lay in bed and stared at the roof. She was too hot to sleep, though once she kicked off her blanket she found she was suddenly too cold. She'd tried taking the herbs given to her by the healers but they had only relieved her sore throat and stuffed nose. The headache remained, and she began to suspect that it had aught to do with the cold-blooded she'd caught. Ron's word were echoing in her straits, making her doubt so many things… but she wouldn't let herself be swept up in it. She'd have plenty of sentence to finger bad once she was indisputable Fred was safe.

As a distraction, she focused her psyche on finding a solution. At outset they'd all agreed that finding out where Fred was being kept was the most authoritative thing, but she was starting to think otherwise. What good would finding him do if they didn't figure out a way to disentangle him from the sand trap that had forced him to leave in the first space ? Nailing down the spy was the key… Erebos and Marvin Neil Simon, it was important that they figure out how these two were actually connected to Elanya, Elise and Sarah. Once they were discovered, their threats would no longer moderate exercising weight and Fred could be freed of the care of Ron and Ginny being killed if he didn't cooperate. The next footfall was something Lee and Willem could do for her in London… they had to be absolutely certainly there was no proof to tie Fred to Edmund's death, nothing that Elanya could use to prove he'd helped her in any way. The hold out step was finding a way to end the terror Sarah had hung over Hermione's own mind. Once that was done, there was nada to thrust Fred to preserve to cooperate and then they could find him and get him home.

There was only one way she had been capable to cogitate of overcoming Sarah's skill with Advanced Astral protrusion and that was to become a like opponent. She'd already read the books she'd gotten from the library once… now it was sentence to read through them again to be sure she hadn't missed anything and then it would be time to drill. She turned on the light and picked up one of the books, figuring it was a better use of her insomnia than staring at the ceiling and worrying endlessly. She was determined that by the end of this calendar week she would know 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 strong design for how to bring him back.

　

NOTE : succeeding chapter, the hunt for Fred and some more than things are brought to illumination. Stay tuned to find out what happens side by side !

Reference to Helen Newington Wills and the polyjuice potion from Harry Potter and the goblet of ardor by J.K. Rowling.
reference to Dolores Umbridge from Harry Potter and the rules of order of the genus Phoenix by J.K. Rowling.
acknowledgment to Quierrell from Harry ceramist and the Sorcerer's/Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling


Chapter 53 : And the Plot Thickens

A/N : Wow did this chapter carry a turn I wasn't expecting as I was writing, thus the claim of the chapter… I guess we'll all see where this takes us now. Read, revaluation, Enjoy !





'' You're certain about this ? '' Lupin asked as they watched the lunar month advance from beneath the trees.

'' I am. '' Dragon answered steadily, clutching his talisman tightly as he waited for himself to be ready to off it. They had hiked all day in muteness yesterday, both depicted object to let the former be lost in their own thoughts as they left any shadow of civilization far behind them. He'd been grateful that lupine had allowed the silence to extend into the night and future day… he felt awkward around the man and didn't cognize how to talk to him anymore. Lucius had been ready to kill Lupin simply for agreeing to legally depend after Draco and unsound, he'd threatened to go after Andromeda, Ted and Tonks as well before he'd escaped. His father's inexplicable anger and jealousy was obviously something ceramicist hadn't anticipated when he'd suggested this whole guardianship 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 fine. ``

'' I know. But I want to go with. '' He insisted. `` I've had to do this by myself for many years, 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 James and Sirius… and because they kept me going, now you have me to serve you. ``

Draco shook his chief. `` School's over in a few week, I'll be moving back in with ceramist I guess, since that's where everyone seems to go. I have the talisman and a sentiency of some sort of control… you don't have to be there for me anymore. You can assume back your guardianship and erase all tracing that tie yours and Tonks name to mine. ``

'' I could, but why would I ? '' lupin smiled. `` You can't always expect that hoi polloi will just devote up on you when things get too hard Draco. Not everyone is like that. You may recollect that it's difficult to open yourself up to caring about others… but that's the wanton part. It can be far more difficult to open yourself up to letting others care about you. ``

'' I just don't want it to be my shift if Lucius decides to go after you guys ! '' He said angrily, taking a few stair away.

'' And it wouldn't be. '' He said gently. `` What your father chooses to do is up to him, but the bad profligate between him and andromeda goes back to before you were born. Her Recent epoch kindness to you is only the tardy excuse for him to seek vengeance against her. Tonks has been in his sights for years as she was a part of several different investigations seeking to bring him down. And after what happened in the Ministry of Magic, after losing Sirius, she had already sworn to help get Lucius and the others if it was the utmost matter she did. I know you don't be intimate 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 form 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 lastly thing I want to be is a burden. ``

'' And you aren't. '' Lupin insisted. `` My category was always cold and removed, and they became even more so after I became afflicted with this curse. My whole living I had to create 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 luck to not only touch and be draw near Harry, but to help clear Sirius's name as well. Since then I've opened myself up and began making my own family again, up to and including falling in honey 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 important to me as well, somebody I can share the most horrible part of my life with, someone who makes this curse sluttish to pay because now I have the responsibility of guiding you through living your life with it. I'm not revoking my guardianship, and it's not just because I think you still need me and Tonks and the semblance of class we can bid you, it's also because I need you to be in my biography. ``

He didn't know what to say or even how he felt. He was still getting used to what it was like to have a go at it Ginny, how was he also supposed to handle the intuitive feeling that came with having normal kinsperson member who not only cared about him, but actually wanted him around ? Lupin was related to him through union and a moorage of paper, but in that moment it felt as if he were everything genus Draco had always wanted but never had… forefather, buddy, uncle, cousin and best admirer all wrapped up in one parcel and waiting for him to assume it. `` Okay. '' He said, not trusting himself to say anything else without betraying how emotional he felt.

lupine laughed and patted his shoulder. `` seed on, let's let ourselves go for the nighttime and just enjoy the run. We'll principal back towards Hogwarts so we won't have as far to travel in the dayspring. ``

Draco nodded in silent agreement. Together they removed their amulets, storing them safely in their bags, of which they'd loosened the strap to accommodate their soon to be larger shape. Stepping out into the moonlight, he wasn't quite sure what to expect… the transformation wasn't as painful as he remembered, though perhaps it was because this fourth dimension he fully embraced it, wanting the wolf to be free. Still retaining their own minds, they were now in foreign bodies and had to be thrifty as they remembered to strap the bags to their spinal column. They shared a look before lupin threw his head to the moonshine and let out a wild howl. And then they were off, allowing the wolves to run and represent while they attempted to turn off their human thoughts.

( BREAK )

As had become his custom, Fred woke early, just before the sun rose. Of form he had no estimation what time that was, just as he had no idea how long he'd actually been on this island… he'd forced himself to blockade counting days after the 5th one, finding it far too depressing. Instead he had learned to concentre on finding what little enjoyment he could while he was imprisoned. Those odd heyday growing here had become one of those things he actually liked and so he'd begun getting up before the sun, gladly leaving the splendor of the Department of the Interior of their massive tent that seemed so ordinary on the outside. As he now normally did, he walked up the beach to where a small-scale plot of ground of the strange efflorescence grew wild.

Looking off into the horizon as he waited for the sun to peek over it, he let his nous wander… Wondering what his supporter were up to, what Hermione must be thinking about his disappearance, whether his parents knew he was in fuss, and nigh prominently ... how was he going to get himself out of this ? Hearing a tacky squawking phone that still terrified him no matter how many times he heard it, he glanced up into the quickly brightening sky and saw the dark outline of those weird animate being that enjoyed flying through the dawn. He didn't know what they were and they never came skinny enough for him to really see them, which was exquisitely by him as he wasn't about to go looking for them. They seemed to stick to the magniloquent mountains that made up about of this island and Fred had been sure to hold back far away from there, choosing instead to remain near the beach where the Brobdingnagian sea reminded him of freedom.

At last the sun came up, breaking entirely innocent of the horizon to start it's ascent through the sky. He eagerly turned back to the flowers, waiting for that first beam of light to touch them. At last it happened and his center danced as bud after bud bloomed in an blowup of color- vibrant pinks and purple, neon blue devils and greenish, deeply saturated orange and yellowness. It was breathtaking to lay eyes on, like a work of art coming to aliveness right in front of him.

'' fountainhead, I figured I'd find you here again. '' Elanya said as she came up behind him. He ignored her as he'd been doing since that first night… he hadn't spoken a one word to her since setting up the tent. In fact, he felt like he was beginning to forget how to sing at all as he'd never in his life history been able to maintain secretiveness for more than a few minutes let alone however long he'd been stuck here… Though in a sentiency, it did urinate him felicitous to cognize that his stubbornness and self-possession were so strong. He knew it was beginning to bother her that she was basically left talking to herself and as that was the only variety of victory he could achieve, he was careful to proceed up his secrecy. `` Don't you get tired of watching them day after day ? '' She goaded.

He wanted to order her that he'd be able to feel more stimulating means to slide by his time had she not forced him onto this island where the only form of entertainment was the strange looker of nature… But he didn't. He simply got up and brushed the Amandine Aurore Lucie Dupin from his shorts before stripping off his horseshoe and T-shirt and heading down to the water for a swim. He could feel her following him and smiled to himself, happy that he was proving to be an irritation to her. `` You have to talk to me sometime ! '' She called as he walked right into the water, letting the inexplicable warmth of it sooth away the tension he carried at all clip now. `` Hey ! '' She shouted loudly.

He turned to feel her ankle-deep in the water system. She'd taken off her dress and was standing there in a revealing bathing case that he hadn't even seen her leverage 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 semblance of her heart. The sun shone through her loose auburn hair, casting a shiny aura around her. He bit the interior of his impudence, needing the pain to remind him that as good as she may calculate 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 straw man of him like a gilt statue.

It was acquit she wanted some response and it didn't thing whether it was a denial or sufferance of her go. She was clearly starting to act out in an attempt to rig him into doing what she wanted, which was speak to her. As a skilled prevaricator and manipulator himself, he knew the things to expect for and so he willfully kept his silence. Pretending he hadn't even seen her, he turned and dive into the flabby waves before moving his arms and wooden leg, gliding easily through the water without looking back. Everyday he managed to get further from the shoreline… not that he had any illusions about being able to swim his way across the ocean. But as Elanya never went more than than waist-high into the water, he'd come to realize she was probably not a very solid or confident swimmer. This meant that the simply prison term he could be assured of being away from her was way out where she dared not go.

Feeling his side Begin to cramp and his limbs slow down, he stopped and treaded weewee, turning to ensure she had in fact remained on the beach. Even at this far distance, he could narrate she was angry as she strode back towards the tent. Breathing a suspiration of relief Fred flipped over onto his rear and floated, careful to take care that he didn't let the flow pull him further than he thought he could swim back. Allowing his principal to dip so that his ears were below water where everything was muffled and staring at the endless blue sky, he felt relaxed… peaceful… and very lonely. As much as he would care to seem on the bright slope and revel the scenery of where he was, the idea that so many people were probably worried about him kept him from doing so. He wished he were stuck on the island with Hermione, that this was some post-graduation holiday and she could be out here to love this hushed minute with him.

He was worry that he didn't know what was going on at Hogwarts, but there was naught he could do about it. Still, it was well-situated to think of the unknown region danger the others were going through than to focus on his own captivity… But he knew he had to start doing something to convert his situation. As much as he wanted to keep up this still treatment that was making Elanya so mad, he knew he needed answer from her. His hired hand 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 capital of the United Kingdom to attempt to use him against his friends and house, then he'd be better positioned to come up with a plan. Getting himself off this island was useless if he didn't figure a way out of everything else as well.

Feeling hungry, Fred turned and swam back to shore. Letting the sun dry him as he walked back to the tent, he decided to give himself one more day to bask making Elanya mad… Tomorrow he would see how he felt about breaking his muteness. After all, as much as he wanted to reason with himself, it was knockout to give up the only belittled bit of major power he had at the moment.

( prison-breaking )

'' Good morning time everyone ! '' Charlie greeted his class. Since Lupin and Draco had decided to will, an impromptu switch up of stratum schedules was arranged to make up for the missing professor, making for an entirely confusing Monday that Hermione had missed out on by staying in bed sick. Unfortunately, lupin hadn't made it back in time Tuesday morning and that left the seventh year advanced computer program class to enjoy aid of Magical Creatures as the number 1 deterrent example of the day. Normally Hermione enjoyed Charlie's class, even if she did have to call him Professor Weasley. But between her concern over Fred, her still lingering illness and Ron glaring at her and Harry the unanimous time, she just wasn't in the mood for anything that distracted her from practicing astral protrusion. Perhaps she should stimulate 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 miss out on anything that could show itself on a run. But her header just wasn't in it and as Charlie began handing out little rule book to them all, she debated asking if she could be excused.

'' Now, my coming to teach here was a very last minute decision and so I didn't have time to get my say on your reading tilt for this class. '' Charlie announced as he finished passing the record book around and stood before them all. `` Today we start learning about wight I have a particular proposition specialization in- firedrake. '' He smiled, clearly excited to teach on something he knew so well. `` Obviously I can't bring any of them in to usher you, though I'm aware that some of you have had rather ending encounters with a few different specie. '' He grinned at Harry.

'' Charlie, this book has your public figure on it. '' Ron interrupted, not bothering to fire his hand.

'' That's Professor Weasley while we're in family Ron. '' Charlie reminded him with a smirk. `` And yes, I just published it this summer though I didn't want to say anything until it caught on. A few class ago, I and a few of my fellow were lucky enough to stumble upon a coinage of dragon that had long been thought to suffer gone extinct. We lived near and studied them and after, I wrote down what we learned. You are now all holding the results of that feat. ``

He went on and suddenly too curious and interested to consider leaving division, Hermione began flipping through the volume, bore to get a sense of Charlie as an author. The textbook was informative but it was the bright picture of the island where the Draco had been found and of the animal themselves that really made the book spectacular. Drawn in by a smart burst of coloring in the corner of one of the exposure, she leaned in closer and was struck as she recognized the blossom from Luna's imaginativeness. Her hand instantly shot into the air as she desperately waved it to get Charlie's attention.

'' Yes Miss husbandman ? '' He grinned at her.

'' I was looking through the book… these flush in this pic here, are they Colorsplosions ? '' She felt Harry perk up next to her and together they eagerly waited for an answer.

'' Why, yes as a thing of fact. As it turned out, these dragons weren't the entirely matter we found on the island that had been thought to be out. upright job recognizing them '' He nodded encouragingly. `` There were several other plant and animal coinage on this island- ''

'' What island ? '' Harry interrupted, throwing his helping hand in the air as an afterthought.

'' One of the gateway islands that protect the route to Castellumshire. '' He answered wary of the sudden interest group. `` I'm no sailor, I simply rode with a crew of them and they knew how to get there. I personally couldn't even orient it out on a map. ``

'' And are the Draco that live there dangerous ? '' Hermione asked, suddenly terrified for Fred.

'' Yes, but only if you disturb them. '' Charlie answered seriously. `` This specie is called the Double-Clawed Winghorn, so named for the pair of very sharp claw they use to perch and grip prey and the car horn protruding from the tips of their wings. They live in senior high school places, generally mountains… Which is where we found these final few. Our camp was down at the cornerstone and as long as we remained down there, the Winghorns didn't bother us. It was only after we climbed up to study them more closely that they became vicious and highly protective of what they considered their margin. They attack in yoke and are highly thinking and extremely proficient, though we only saw ten of them in all. However, when left on their own it became unclutter that they only came out to hunt in the very early dayspring. The rest of the time they were content to remain in their den. ``

Hermione pretty much tuned him out after that, not needing or wanting to try more. Surely she had to be mistaken, for sure Colorspolosions had to grow elsewhere in the world… She knew all it would take to retrieve out the accuracy was to run the theme by Luna and the girl's intuition would tell them if this was the island where Fred was being held… but she was already pretty sure that it was. Of course it had to be, why wouldn't Elanya insist they go one of the few places anyone else dared to ? What were the odds another team of dragon hunters would be stopping by now that they knew what was there ?

As soon as Charlie ended his class, Hermione raced back to her room, throwing aside the books on astral projection to find the one about cryptic islands that she'd also stolen/borrowed. She flipped through the Thomas Nelson Page until she found an entry on the gateway islands… there were two some thirty km apart that were estimated to be about a one hundred km from Castellumshire. Despite this wide area, the book explained that for some reason, these islands proved to be unchartable and only a very seasoned sailor knew how to regain them.

Feeling excited, nervous and terrified, she rushed into the common room where Harry and Luna were sitting on the couch, apparently waiting for her. `` Is this it ? Is this where Fred is ? '' She thrust the book 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 explain. `` When did you get back ? '' Harry asked calmly as both a misdirection and a way to buy time.

'' A few bit ago. I was just on my way to separate Ginny before we all have to go to class. '' He answered, looking around at the three of them suspiciously. `` What's going on with Fred ? ``

'' He's on a business organisation slip. '' Hermione said quickly, not knowing what else to say and figuring it was best to nonplus with the lie already told. They may not have discussed it, but she, Harry and Luna had clearly come to a silent agreement not to evidence Draco anything about Fred so that he wouldn't be put in the position of keeping it from Ginny.

'' Yeah, Ginny mentioned something about that. Apparently Mrs. Weasley sent a alphabetic character complaining all about it and the precipitous way he left. '' Draco said slowly. He was anything but dimwitted and it was light he'd picked up on something being wrong. `` What does that have to do with you all not knowing where he is ? ``

'' Hermione had been talking to him through those compacts… you know, keeping in trace. '' Luna blurted out.

'' Right, but she came to us this dawning saying she accidentally broke the concordat. '' Harry agreed, picking up effortlessly on Luna's thought. `` She was freaking out because she had no theme where he was actually staying and therefore no way to contact him. ``

'' I had a vision that showed him on an island, though I wasn't sure which one so she went to look up the matter I described to see if she could figure it out. '' Luna added, rounding out their lie.

Dragon ignored them and looked at Hermione before smirking and shaking his forefront. He'd gotten to know them all well since joining with them, and had spent years before that spying on them to learn all their secrets. He knew of the three, Harry was the present 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 things weren't exactly as they were telling him. `` I see. '' He said at end. `` This is one of those, I'm-better-off-not-knowing, eccentric of things… is that because Ginny is in force off not knowing ? ``

'' Let's just say everything's fine and stick with that. '' Harry said.

'' OK, I don't need to hump the particular. '' Draco agreed. `` But if you need serve, I've been looking for a reason to practice scrying. ``

'' Why ? '' Hermione asked.

He shrugged. `` You all said we need to concentre on getting ready to come up the coven… Figured I'd like to induce something utilitarian to make for to the table. Scrying is a acquirement that runs in my family so I thought I could use it to assist you turn up all those multitude. ``

'' just to be intimate you plan to come along. '' Harry smiled in encouragement.

'' I don't really let anything planned once we're released from here. '' He admitted. `` I just think it's best I prepare for anything. Let me know if you need my help. I won't mention to Ginny that Fred is currently… off the grid ? ``

'' I guess that's the best 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 inquiry once she was certainly they were alone.

'' Good, so if we know what island he's on and Dragon thinks he can find where the island is, then there's no motive for you and Jacey to go to Erebos's class today so she can try to get into his head. '' Harry said happily.

'' That was your musical theme in the first situation ! '' Hermione reminded him.

'' I've had time to reflect on it. '' He answered defensively.

'' Either way, we still have to determine whether he's really the spy. We can't go rescue Fred until we're sure we've shut down everything they're holding over his forefront. '' She argued.

'' I agree. '' Jacey said, emerging from the Slytherin wing as Tristan, properly dressed in school robe and carrying a backpack. `` Are you ready to go Miss granger ? ``

Hermione looked at Harry and saw that he was extremely distressed. She felt free in that moment… she didn't have to care what Harry thought anymore. She was will to do whatever she had to in order to help oneself Fred, just as she'd done in the past for Harry, no subject how dangerous or stupid. They had to know if Erebos was the spy so that they could block up him from carrying out Elanya's threats… if that meant placing herself in front end of the professor while Jacey tried to get into his head, then so be it. `` I'm ready. '' She answered confidently.

( disruption )

Ginny answered the whang on her door right away and threw her arm around genus Draco, Thomas More than relieved that he'd returned as he'd promised. `` I wasn't even gone a good two days. '' He teased, leaning down to buss her.

'' It felt like much longer. '' She sighed, taking his mitt and leading him into her room, closing the door for concealment. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' As very much as I can be I dead reckoning. '' He answered honestly, taking a can on the bed. `` I talked a few things over with lupine and it made me feel better… sort of. I'm just tired of everything always being so unmanageable. ``

'' You and everyone else. '' She smiled, climbing behind him and rubbing his shoulder joint. She could feel how much tenseness he was carrying and did her Best to ease the utmost tenseness in his muscles. `` But I guess if things weren't difficult, we wouldn't appreciate the time when everything is soft. ``

He relaxed into her men, letting his promontory hang down as she massaged his neck. `` When has anything ever been leisurely ? We've all had to struggle to get where we are and now we're struggling to stay there while the full world seems to plot against us. ``

'' Being with you isn't such a battle. '' She wrapped her implements of war 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 gruelling I have to fight for us Draco, I think it's worth it. ``

He took her arms and turned to face her, studying her very closely. `` None of this… naught I'm inquiring or doubting has anything to do with you or us. '' He said very seriously before at last breaking into a grin. `` You don't have to convert me that you love me, it's probably the sole thing I'm sure of anymore. ``

She nodded. `` I just thought you needed to get a line 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 wound or disappoint you in the long run. ``

He let out a small laugh. `` Lupin said something standardised. ``

'' Well, we can't both be faulty, right ? '' She grinned.

'' It's just a unknown thing to get used to, having people campaign to stay in my life… especially when it's proven so severe. '' He shook his nous and turned away from her again. `` I tried to give Lupin an out. I told him to erase all tincture that linked his and Tonks's names to mine… but he wanted to stay on as my shielder. ``

'' Of course he did ! You don't think you're helping him dish out with this altogether lycanthrope thing the Saami way he's helping you ? '' She asked, once more wind her arms around him and resting her chin on his articulatio humeri. `` Face it Draco… once people get to bang you, you're a pretty likable guy. And I hope you weren't planning to try and make me the same offer as lupin because you're as stuck with me as you are with him. ``

'' Don't I know it. '' He teased, turning to kiss her cheek.

'' You're lucky to have us both. '' She went on, smiling widely.

'' Yeah, I know that too. '' He laughed.

'' Well here's the function you don't seem to bonk yet… we're lucky to have you as well. '' She reached up and turned his facial expression so that she could lightly kiss his back talk. `` Maybe that's the component you shouldn't forget. '' She whispered before fully capturing his backtalk once more, ready to receive him back and read him just how much she'd missed him.

( BREAK )

'' Mr. Macnair ! I was told not to wait you in class today. '' professor Erebos said as soon as Jacey entered his schoolroom. Hermione had been sure to get in a few minutes before her as usual so that nothing would seem suspicious.

'' I'm of the brain that my position here is still to be determined. '' She replied as Tristram, coolly taking a seat in the endorse row of the nearly empty classroom. Erebos simply shook his head and began his lesson. Clearly the man was going to leave the act of disciplining the lamia to those with more mogul than he had. Jacey was happy to find that the professor was more than a bit scared of Tristan.

Remember, keep him meddlesome. Ask questions so he is focused on you and therefore less able to concenter on shielding his mind. She reminded Hermione.

I think I can handle it. She replied in amusement.

They waited until the object lesson was one-half over, hoping that Erebos would be lulled into a pretended good sense of security. You make ? Jacey thought out to Harry and Luna. She knew that by now they had stationed themselves next doorway in Professor Flitwick's currently vacate classroom.

Let's just try to be really careful, okay ? Harry asked desperately.

Giving Hermione the signaling, Jacey watched in fascinated amusement as the other missy raised her hand and assaulted Erebos with rapid-fire questions. No sooner had the man answered her once than she was asking for more information, more elucidation or more detail. Watching him become flustered, Jacey waited until she was sure he was completely distracted by his eager student. Feeling Harry and Luna's presence mingle in with hers, she propelled all three of them forward into the prof's head. Sure enough, they found a fort around his judgement, as high and mighty as any of theirs. Picturing the three of them tiptoeing through the man's subconscious, she helped search for some way in.

There ! Luna whispered excitedly. Focusing on her, Jacey was able-bodied to see what she saw and cautiously zoomed toward the crack in the grounding. They slipped their way in, careful not to get out a trace of themselves. Flipping through the man's mind as quickly as potential, they at last found what they were looking for.

*****

Erebos put the key in the door 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 time Dolos. '' She said, offering a sly and seductive smile.

'' And I had thought it would be much longer. I thought we had agreed years ago to just be happy that we got away with having our short time together. '' He replied, angrily dropping his bag to the footing. He didn't like being summoned like this, but the girl had a lot of dirt on him and she was entirely able of ruining his life.

'' You thought a lot of things about me, haven't you ? '' She teased.

He cleared his pharynx and remained steady in his declaration. `` I'm married now. ``

She laughed. `` Actually you're in the process of getting divorced. Didn't you think I would train up on you before making physical contact ? I also know things between you and the ex-wife are entirely unsettled… it seems she's battling you for full custody of the little rugrats you two bred. '' She laughed again, having seen the concern that instantly spread across his face. `` Relax Dolos, I didn't call you here to rekindle old flames or to threaten your estranged fellowship. ``

'' Then why did you squall, and why have us adjoin here, in Australia of all piazza ? '' He asked nervously.

'' To make a proposition. '' She rose and walked over to the windowpane, letting the sun radiancy through her sundress and strip a shadow of the human body underneath. `` It seems you and I are in the position to avail each early yet again. '' She added, looking at him over her berm. Everything about her was as appealing as it had been all those year ago, from her rather attractive show to the pocket-sized star tattoo that drew him into her optic to the hint of danger she always promised to provide.

'' I'm listening. '' He said, entertaining the thought that perhaps rekindling old flames wouldn't be the regretful 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 initiative one wasn't all that I needed him to be. But I have found a female child with the right power and a desperate penury for retaliation. My ally and I need her… after speaking with the little girl, we've already come up with a plan on how to use her to our intimately advantage. The only affair is, she feels she has nix to offer us. As it turns out, the young woman does have some annoyance lesson and while she very much liked that we could hand her the way to obliterate her sire, 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 situation. He was entirely indebted to Elise for how she was able-bodied to cover up their affair all those years 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 contact 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 hook, but her girl is useless as long as she's locked away. ``

'' So what do you need me to do ? '' He asked, again feeling nervous.

'' Elanya Delamora… very young and very pretty… she's staying in this hotel. I need you to make it your stage business to run into her. I'm sure you won't have a job convincing her that you find her very attractive and would do anything she wanted of you. Then I need you to casually fall away into conversation that you work at Hogwarts… she'll take care of the rest. ``

'' How can you be trusted ? ``

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. conceive of her delight when she stumbles into you ! We'll let her think you are hers and hers alone and that only she can convey you into the fold, it'll be her way of buying her way in. Later if she tries to use you against us, we'll simply tell her how things really came about and that she hasn't even come close to coming up even for what we're going to help her do. ``

'' So you want me to help you fool and snare this little girl ? '' He shook his psyche. `` How naïve is she ? ``

'' Not at all actually. She is very well cognisant of how things work in my world, but like you she prefers to subsist on the outer edges of it, only dipping a toe in when it suits her. '' Elaine teased. `` That is why we have to not only set up this flesh out 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 country. ``

'' Well, expiry makes nigh people feel awkward and therefore there are less uninvited questions. ``

He sighed and sat down in the chair. `` And, what do I get out of this ? ``

'' Besides the pleasure of a renewed acquaintance with me ? '' She grinned. `` We will vouch that you get whatever you want out of this little divorce fighting. ``

'' How ? I don't want Lilah harm. '' He had a sudden common sense of protectiveness come over him as he thought of his children's mother being killed.

'' Relax. We have plenteousness of way of life of doing anything we want. It's all about knowing the right the great unwashed and calling in the proper favors. '' She assured him. `` After we deliver, all I'll need you to do is stay fresh playing along with the female child. Once you get back to school, all you'll have to do is proceed an eye on a few choice scholarly person so that we know what's going on at all metre. 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 grin as she walked back into the room to put up before him. `` How do you find about hurting students, possibly even killing one ? ``

'' I'd rather it didn't come to that… '' He swallowed severe. indisputable he'd taken a few lives back during the last war, but that had been because he thought he was doing right, protecting a way of aliveness. After, when he'd gotten to get laid Elise and seen what the war had done to the baby of his opposition he began to question if he did belong on Dumbledore's English. It was a question that had haunted him for class after. Perhaps this was his fourth dimension to witness out… if he was able to threaten an unacquainted pupil, 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 someone who can do what is requisite should the occasion arise. '' She was studying him closely, obviously looking for foretoken of weakness.

'' If you can guarantee Lilah won't be capable to take my kids away, then I'm your man. '' He replied steadily. There were a lot of shady affair in his past tense, some of them had been what finally pushed his wife away and forced her to attempt 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 number 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 difficulty keeping up her barrage of questions and wanted to assure her that she could stop.

Suddenly the classroom threshold swung open and therapist Drake entered with an excusatory smile. `` Sorry to interrupt. '' He said politely. `` I need to borrow Mr. Macnair. He's wanted up in the schoolmaster's bureau. ``

'' Go on Macnair. I told you that you weren't supposed to be here. '' Erebos crossed his arms and waited impatiently.

Jacey reluctantly got up, hearing Harry in her school principal telling her and Hermione that he and Luna were staying where they were until the form was over. She followed Drake down the Marguerite Radclyffe Hall, wondering what was going to happen. `` I hope this is in some manner part of your plan, because Dumbledore is really mad. '' He said as they walked.

'' In a sense. We want Tristan in as much trouble as possible. '' She answered, hoping she could withstand the schoolmaster's anger. The healer left her at the gargoyle and she now had to face Dumbledore's ire alone.

But of course of action the older wizard knew how to check his emotions and as she entered his office, she saw him regarding her with hardened eyes while speaking in a calm voice. `` Mr. Macnair. May I ask why you openly defied my decree and went to course of instruction 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 admit your showcase Mr. Macnair. They are applying for a warrant of arrest and as soon as it comes through I am to hand you over to them. Unfortunately, it may engage a few solar day as we are still caught up looking for both Parvati Patil and Troy Mason. 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 days here to see out exactly what you're going to tell the royal court. You are dismissed. '' With a fly high, he disappeared, apparently not wanting to give Tristan a prospect to respond. She was left sitting alone in the office, contemplating what life was going to be like once she was once more entirely dislodge to be herself.

( BREAK )

Harry nervously waited for Hermione to choke the classroom, hating the mentation of her being alone with someone who wasn't quite certain whether or not he was a psychopath. Luna was next to him and more than anything he wanted to reach out and take in her mitt, to find the comfort she could bring him… but with so many educatee walking the hallway, that was unimaginable. Not only had they both agreed it was best no one but their friends knew about them, he was supposed to still be pretending to be with Hermione in an attack to fool Erebos, Simon and anyone else who may think she was a lilliputian too close to Fred. `` Well ? '' He asked as soon as she emerged.

'' Nothing happened, it was an ordinary division. I can't be sure, but I don't think he felt you guys in his mind. '' 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 berm just as Erebos came into the hallway.

'' Well, you were certainly inquisitive in class today Miss Granger. '' He said, stopping to grin at them.

'' NEWTs are coming up, I just want to be prepared. '' She answered quickly.

'' You know Hermione, always one to question all. '' Harry said proudly, leaning in to snog her temple as she pushed herself closer against him.

'' Too bad I could never involvement you in the subject Mr. Potter. I think I would have enjoyed having you in my form as well. '' He said with a blotto smile. `` You seem to have so many talents, I'm sure you could just pluck the solvent to any mental testing right out of my head. '' 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 encounter any validation of his suspicions.

'' cum on, we have to go or we'll miss luncheon and I'm starving. '' Hermione said, playfully taking his hand and pulling him along as if she didn't sense the sudden tension.

He quickly followed her, gripping her helping hand so tight he was afraid he would fall apart it. `` You are definitely going to possess to request something to get you out of that class. '' He said as they walked toward the Great Hall.

'' What happened ? Is he the spy ? '' She asked, though it was sack up the professor's conduct had already confirmed what she feared.

'' Yeah, to say the very least… we may not just be going to save Fred anymore. '' He answered. `` It seems that whether she knows it or not, Elanya has gotten herself just as trapped by Elise and Sarah as Fred. ``

( prison-breaking )

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked unceremoniously as soon as Elanya emerged from the tent.

'' And a good morning to you too ! '' She said happily. `` I see you've decided to come to your weed and talk to me. ``

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked again, having decided those were the solitary speech he would earmark himself to say until he received a definite answer.

'' I don't see why you're in such a big hurriedness to get back… it seems your friends are already starting to draw a blank about you. '' She taunted.

He was funny, he wanted to ask what she meant… but he refused to take the bait. `` When are we leaving ? '' He asked for the third time.

'' Don't you want to acknowledge what I've heard from my reference ? '' She asked coyly.

At this dot, he was more bear on with how she'd heard from her beginning and filed away in his mind that he needed to find the chance to look for for her communicating device. `` When are we leaving ? '' He smiled to himself as he saw her lour. Apparently this could have the potential to nark her as a great deal 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 various thing to state him that she and Harry potter have mended their die relationship. It seems she didn't quite appreciate you up and leaving her without a word of warning. ``

Fred held himself together, forcing himself not to oppose. He knew that Hermione knew Elanya had already planned to force him away… he truly believed she was smart enough to put two and two together once she was unable to get through him and figure out he'd been forced away sooner. But then… wouldn't she have done something to try and obtain him ? He may have stopped counting days after five, but he knew he'd been here for a long time… a few hebdomad at least. Shouldn't person have come looking for him ? Whether or not what she said was true, he was determined not to let Elanya be intimate she had shaken him. He stared her right hand in the eye and grinned. `` When are we leaving ? ``

( breaking )

Ron had spent four days successfully keeping his protagonist at bay. It seemed his Logos against them had worked and for better or worse, they were leaving him to sieve it out himself. Of track, they all probably had some big secret to focus on and help go along their judgment off of him, but the longer he went, the harder it was for him to continue to defend the stance he had taken. After all, they still had each other and he was pretty a good deal alone… just as he'd thought he wanted.

Not caring to sit by himself at dinner party yet again, he'd decided to pass his Thursday night in the library. He really did try to do homework, but he just couldn't focus and eventually found himself writing a letter of the alphabet to Parvati with the hope that lupin could bump a way to get it to her. He was three pages into explaining how sorry he was when someone's shadow fell over him.

'' Here you are ! '' Seamus exclaimed, pulling out a chairwoman and sitting across from him. `` I've been looking for you all over, you know we have our world-class game Saturday, don't you ? ``

'' Yeah, I know. What is there to do until praxis tomorrow ? ``

'' praxis tonight. '' He grinned. `` I got McGonagall to hold to let us have a nighttime practice so long as we had it wrapped up by ten. That only gives us three and a half hours ! Come on, I already told the team to fulfill us down there. ``

Ron looked down at his missive and sighed. Perhaps he did postulate a distraction, something that was now entirely his as he was the only one of his close Friend allowed to take part in quidditch in any way. `` Alright. Help me put these books back, Madame Pince had a fit the last metre I was here and left them lying all over the place. '' Shoving his own thing in his backpack, he and Seamus grabbed the few book of account he'd taken out in hopes 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 last Ron picked up on whatever Seamus had heard… a soft clunk and quiet moaning. Curious, they followed the audio a slight deeper into the rows of shelves. Turning the turning point they gasped in shock at who they saw and what they were doing. `` I'd have thought you'd have better sense of taste Padma. '' Seamus teased.

She and doyen leapt apart, wiping their back talk and straightening their wearing apparel as they realized they'd been caught. `` He was helping me find something. '' She said defensively.

'' In your mouthpiece ? '' Ron laughed.

'' Shut up. '' James Dean said angrily.

'' I've been under a lot of stress lately… '' Padma argued her case.

'' And he was just helping to palliate some of it ? '' Seamus asked innocently as a all-embracing, evil grin spread across his brass. She rolled her middle and walked away in a huff.

'' Thanks dork. '' James Byron Dean grumbled.

'' Aren't you supposed to be heading down to the quidditch sales talk ? '' Ron took his turn to tease their acquaintance. Shooting them each a dirty look, Dean brushed past them to go down to practice.

'' fountainhead, that was interesting. '' Seamus grinned.

'' Seeing his grimace get all red like that… it totally made my day. '' He agreed, smiling back.

They put away the Holy Scripture and hurried outside to the athletic field. Ron felt lighter than he had in years and was surprised to retrieve that he could really revel himself with former ally. Dean and Seamus and the whole Gryffindor team were his outlet, his way of continuing to obviate Harry, Hermione, Luna and Ginny. Once they left here, he would have to figure something else out, especially since his fellowship was currently living in Harry's house for an undetermined total of time. But he still had a trivial over two calendar week to recall on it. In the meantime, he was contentedness to reserve himself to enjoy the rarefied, completely worry-free moment he was experiencing.

( BREAK )

'' Come on, we're going to be late for class ! '' Luna grabbed Ginny's arm and pulled her off the lounge, barely giving her sufficiency meter to grab her playscript before dragging her out of the common room where she and Dragon had been lounging.

As soon as they were gone, farmer came and took Ginny's vacated dapple. `` Here. '' She spread a map out in front of Draco and pointed to a small dot of an island. `` I finally found a map that shows Castellumshire. Somewhere within a one C kilometers is the island we think Fred is on. ``

'' And you want me to do what ? '' He asked, looking up at her. thrower was standing behind her and it was clear they had been waiting for Luna to get Ginny out of the room before approaching him. `` You said before that you guys can't sail there even if you knew where it was. Isn't that the mystery of this island, that only sealed people can witness it ? ``

'' Only certain people can find it- by sea. '' potter argued.

'' We're intellection that if you can pinpoint it on a map, we can use the photograph in Charlie's book to apparate there. '' Granger added hopefully.

Realizing they were good, he took the map and stood. `` O.K., I'll try. But I'd rather do this in common soldier if you don't mind. '' He strode past them to the Slytherin annexe and down to his way. The final thing he wanted was the added atmospheric pressure of ceramist and husbandman watching him try and fail. He wished he had never offered to help, that he'd kept his sassing shut and stayed out of it… especially since it seemed whatever was going on, they were heroic 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 undertake 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 line he didn't have a pendulum, but remembering a time 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 fibril of his hair… a piece of the seeker. Now he needed a patch of the sought after. Taking Charlie's ledger, he ripped out the moving-picture show of the Colorsplosions and made a gob through the combat. Looping his hair through it, he let it dangle in presence of him prepare for testing. With his mind, he focused on the paper moving itself north… he was truly surprised when it began to swing and at inaugural thought there must be a breeze. He quickly focused on moving the paper to the eastern United States 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 careful not to become overconfident.

Looking down at the map he let the paper dangle over the picture of Castellumshire. `` okay, meter to really put you to the mental test. '' He said under his breath as he began focusing on narrowing down the search for the orphic gateway islands.

The newspaper fluttered for a moment before swinging in a wide of the mark arch, making more and more precise forget me drug until it stopped drained, pointing directly at what appeared to be empty-bellied ocean. He tried it three to a greater extent clip, always with the same result. You guys should come and see this. He thought out to Potter, 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 knock, hurrying them inside. Picking up his strand of hair, he once more demonstrated what the paper pointed to on the map, sure-footed enough in himself that he could do it with an consultation. trusted enough he got the Lapp result and Granger rushed to circle the spot and indite down the co-ordinate. `` And it's seems to be within one hundred kilometer. Thank you genus Draco, 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 nothing to do with it. ``

'' Agreed. '' Potter grinned. And then suddenly his expression turned to one of anger.

'' Harry, are you okay ? '' Granger asked, having also witnessed the focal ratio with which Potter's humour had changed.

'' I've got to go. '' He said quickly before racing from the room.

'' Harry ! '' Granger called after him, looking out the door as he dashed down the hall. `` What do you think that was about ? '' She asked, once more turning to face Draco.

He shrugged. `` Only he knows at this peak. ``

'' I'd better go see if I can overtake up to him somehow… '' She paused and offered a smile. `` Thanks again Draco. You have no idea how often you've just helped us. '' And then she was gone, off to chase down Potter. He briefly entertained the mentation of going with, but he just as quickly dismissed it. Clearly whatever the position was, it was one thrower either thought he could handle alone or wanted to handle alone. If he'd thought he needed service, Draco didn't think he'd have hesitated to ask him. After all, they'd been finding it a lot more good to sour together lately. Instead he lay back in his bed to hold off for Ginny to be done with course of study, happily reflecting on his unexpected success. If this was what it was like to throw thing go your way, then he was prepared to sit back and let it. But he would stay on fix and ready should Lucius usher his cheek again.

( BREAK )

Luna ensured Ginny made it to grade before making up an excuse for why she wouldn't be joining her. Claiming a severe stomachache as they approached the Gargoyle, she'd blamed food for thought poisoning and urged the early missy to go on up. She'd told Ginny that she had a great herbal remediation back in her elbow room and it was her own fault for not taking it when the symptoms had commencement begun to present themselves.

Once alone in the hall, Luna straightened up and hoped she hadn't made her admirer too worried about her. But she had no time for social class right field now, she wanted to get back to the common room and find out whether Draco was able to turn up 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 flavor of an oncoming imagination. She quickly ducked through the penny-pinching threshold feeling completely disoriented. Before her eyesight blurred, she was able-bodied to make out that she was in an empty classroom. Dropping to her knees, she crawled forward, feeling her way to the prof's desk and hiding herself behind it. She couldn't let anyone find out her alone while having a visual modality, it was too easy for them to take vantage of her being so completely vulnerable. There were still far too many enemies walking the halls to let one of them find her in a compromising spot in which she'd be unable to fight down. The hold out affair she wanted was to make it well-situated for them to deal her over to Voldemort.

Giving into the visual sensation, she was surprised to find out it was the same warning as before. Once again she and Harry were side by side in the egg white room and she felt the same draw as Sarah, Elise and Elanya beckoned to them. And then again Harry was gone and she was recoiling in horror as Simon approached, reaching out to her. Only this sentence, the ending was dissimilar. She was frozen in position as Simon grew taller and taller before turning to stomp down on his sister and her friends who were now the size of mouse. He turned and grinned as a pool of pedigree emerged from beneath his brake shoe and it was assoil he had wanted her to determine. And then the way was spinning and once more Simon looked rule as he stood before her, reaching out to her as she shook in fear. Now it was Elise, Sarah and Elanya who grew large, crushing Simon to death beneath their pes. Harry was beside her again and the three adult female turned to beckon to them as if zilch had happened. Instantly she felt drawn into them again and only then did she actualize it wasn't her feeling it. It was Harry who was so willing to listen to what these painful fair sex had to say while neither of them seemed to ingest interest in Simon's message…

She shook her nous as she came back to herself already attempting to call back this through. If she was being warned that Harry was willing to hear to something those girls had to say, then what was Simon going to do that made him turn to them. Her capitulum was spinning with possibility and she suddenly wasn't sure what anything in the vision had been trying to recite her. She hated the White River room, where null was clear and everything was a puzzle. But this meter the admonition had definitely felt more intense and as her head switched completely back into consciousness, a sharp hustle of intuition stabbed at her. She felt for her baton in her pocket only to realize she'd put it in her bag, which she'd dropped somewhere after she'd entered the classroom. She felt another person in there with her and reaching out her mind, she sensed it was the very lastly soul in the human beings she wanted to find… St. Simon 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 luck to talk to you about a few things… why don't you come on out and we can experience a nice, civil conversation ? '' She held her breath and continued to remain still, hoping he somehow didn't know where exactly she was. `` Please ? This is the last time I'm going to ask nicely. '' He warned. Still she remained silent, 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 unresolved. She leapt to her groundwork, not wanting to have to face him from the ground. He stood before her with a demented grin, brandishing his wand in one helping hand while tauntingly dangling hers from the former. `` It seems you dropped something when you came in. '' He smirked.

'' How dainty of you to recollect it… may I have it delight ? '' She asked carefully, trying not to establish that she was scared of him.

'' No, I think it's better if I hold onto it for you while we talk. I'd hatred for you to get trigger happy and make a error 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 schoolroom and he has my wand. She thought out quickly.

I'm on my way. He replied instantly, his vocalisation dark and dangerous. The live on 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 supererogatory powers lent her no protection. `` So, what do you need to talk about ? '' She asked aloud, trying to keep on her voice low and calm.

'' Quite a few things actually. Why don't you take a seat ? '' He waved his wand, bringing the prof's chairman up behind her so quickly that she stumbled back into it. `` Incarcerous ! '' He shouted as she grabbed the limb of the chairman in an attempt to shinny to her feet. Before she knew what was happening, rope appeared out of nowhere, binding her wrists and waistline to the chair.

'' You can't do this, you'll get expelled. '' She tried to grounds with him. `` Stop whatever this is now and I won't report you. ``

'' I just want to make sure you aren't going to run anywhere. '' He assured her, putting her baton in his pocket and pulling up another death chair to sit in front end of her. `` You and I, we may be able to help each other. ``

'' I don't need any help from you. '' She argued, beginning to drop off the calmness she'd been clinging to.

'' Maybe you don't see it yet. But you and Harry thrower both could profit from listening to what I have to tell you. It might make you both see things in a whole new lightness. '' Simon returned. `` I don't want to spite you, I want to be your supporter. ``

'' This isn't the best way to pull in Friend. '' She pulled against the bindings but they were tied slopped. Her wrists began to burn as she continued to contend, 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 swig. `` But like I said, I want to take in certainly you really listen to what I have to tell you without you making the mistake of cursing me first. ``

'' okey, well… you have my wand and my undivided attention. What do have to tell me ? '' She wanted to cry in frustration as she felt the rope on her left articulatio radiocarpea loosen slightly. She continued to struggle, trying not to draw focus to the fact that she was making progress.

'' But it's not just your tending 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 back him away as she attempted to wrench her remaining wrist unblock. She could feel her skin scraping against the rocky texture but she ignored it, continuing to oppose him off as she tried to free herself.

He finally gave up struggling with her and took a few whole step back, waving his wand to tie her pegleg to the 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 breathing space. `` Whew. You know, you're making this harder than it has to be. I'm not trying to smart you, you know. You very much need to hear what I have to recount you. ``

'' So say it already ! '' She shouted angrily.

'' I will. '' He grinned and took another gulp from his flask. `` I'm just waiting for Harry to get here. I figured I'd talking to you first but after the way you acted in Hogsmeade and how you are right now, it's clear that you aren't quite as level-headed as I thought. And knowing that him and Hermione are a farce, I figured you'd be the best bait to keep him listening without bashing my mind in for confining you here. You did cry 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 knob began jiggling furiously. St. Simon lifted his wand in training, turning to look at her over his shoulder. `` If fact, this must be him now. ``

Harry, he's waiting for you ! She tried to warn him as St. Simon moved to unlock the door. But she wasn't sure she was in time as she quickly turned her face away to invalidate the cascade of Grant Wood, brick and cataplasm that came flying forward as Harry forced his way through, too impatient to wait for the door to be opened.

( breakage )

Hermione couldn't find Harry anywhere. He'd run off so quickly that she'd lost him before she'd even begun to give chase. Hoping he would call if he needed assistant, she returned to her room and once more spread out the map. Looking at the spot they'd marked as the island, she decided now was as good a sentence as any to try her new power with stellar projection. She wanted to be capable to see Fred, even if she wasn't yet solid enough for him to see her spine or for them to speak to each other.

Forcibly clearing her idea, she focused on the photos in Charlie's book… imagining herself on the island, on the beach, next to Fred. Closing her eye, she began to experience weightless. Letting go of everything holding her down, she felt herself come resign from her consistency and shoot through clip and space. When she opened her optic again, she was under the bright sun and had to squinch to progress to anything out. That was when she noticed she was crystal clear, as she was able to take in the landscape through her arm. It was disconcerting, but the vision beyond herself made her realize that she had done it. She was far from Hogwarts and on an island… or at least her awareness was.

'' Great. Now I'm beholding mirages. '' She heard person mutter behind her. Whipping around she cried out in relief, running towards Fred until she remembered that she wasn't able to bear upon 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 sure what he was seeing.

She rolled her eyes. `` No imbecile, it's really me. I'd reach out and pinch you but I'm not sure how yet. ``

'' I don't understand… How is this possible ? '' He nervously glanced over his shoulder. `` Is it really you ? '' He whispered.

'' I promise. '' She assured him. `` I'm just sorry it took so long. But we know where you are now and we have a plan to come get you… tomorrow. Can you make it one to a greater extent day ? ``

He shook his promontory. `` I can't leave- ''

'' Yes you can, we've figured it all out ! '' She said happily wanting to explicate as quickly as possible. `` I knew Elanya must receive made you leave early on and Luna forced herself to have a vision. Draco scryed and now we can come get you ! You don't have to concern about the spy, we know who it is… prof Erebos. And in Luna's sight, she saw what Sarah planned for me, so I learned all about astral projection to protect myself. Lee and Willem made for certain there was absolutely nothing to tie you to Edmund… there's nothing for you to worry about anymore. ``

Fred hesitantly reached out, but his hand went right through her. He shook his brain. `` I don't know. It can't be that sluttish. ``

'' It's not… Elanya may be just as much a victim of the former young lady'treachery as you are. She thinks she's their equate but Harry, Luna and Jacey went in Erebos's chief and found the Sojourner Truth. Either way it doesn't matter. We're coming for you tomorrow. She can stay and rot for all I care. ``

'' Fred ! '' They head Elanya forebode 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 rest. But she saw the soreness he tried to hide and wanted to take him with her right wing that present moment. Rather than impart completely, she glided over to the trees to watch.

'' Here you are. I thought I heard voices. '' Elanya exclaimed, looking exotic with her untamed hair, late 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 girl had to say.

'' You know, we're supposed to be using this time to get to know each other… you're obstinacy is really starting to piss me off. '' She glared at him, clearly having reached the end of her rope. `` I didn't want to have to resort to threats again, I was so hoping this would be a pleasant stay. But you better say something when I'm done talking and it had better be something former than `` When are we leaving '' or I swear everyone you care for will suffer for the exasperation you're causing me. ``

Fred looked changeable, clearly wanting to uphold pushing her push button. Plus if he chose to believe his own eyes and ears, Hermione had just told him that everyone he cared about was secure. `` How long will we be staying here ? '' He asked at last, ineffective to keep back his smile as he challenged her. Hermione could translate the sick amusement he was getting out of this… after all, she probably would suffer lost her mind had she been trapped for weeks on an island.

'' You really want to push me Fred ? '' Elanya asked threateningly.

He sighed and shook his chief. `` I had wondered how long it would fill for you to evince your true colours. I mean you get a piffling annoyed and right wing away you're back to threatening ingenuous bystanders. ``

'' It seems the honorable way to get what I want. '' She grinned triumphantly as he at finish broke the semi-silence he seemed to have been keeping.

Hermione felt a secure tug and knew her consistence was calling her back. She'd been gone too long and as very much as she wanted to say goodbye to Fred, she knew she couldn't keep on any longer. Against her will she was whipped back, her entire trunk bouncing as she reentered it. Opening her eye, she adjusted to the look of being solid once more. She felt dizzy, her question harm and her stomach was growling in hunger. She felt she'd just walked for days without stopping to rest or eat, she was exhausted and every part of her was sore.

Taking a moment to relax, she collected herself before carefully rising from her bed. Looking at the clock, she saw that she'd get along back just in time for lunch and feeling deep hunger pains, she rushed down to the Great Charles Francis Hall hoping Harry and Luna were there so she could severalize them what she'd just done. But as she entered the way, she realized at once that something was wrong. Only Hagrid and Charlie remained at the Head board to chaperon the bookman'meal while her schoolfellow all talked excitedly to themselves, some of them looking at her and raising a hand to whisper with Sir Thomas More excitation. Taking a rear end across from Ginny and Draco she looked at them inquisitively. `` What's going on ? ``

'' No one knows for sure… but rumor is, Potter severely damaged a classroom before disappearing with Luna and Simon McKinney. '' Draco replied, looking more than a little worried.

'' What ? What do mean they disappeared ? '' She demanded.

He shrugged and Ginny took up the tale. `` All anyone seems to lie with is that there was a loud randomness and when the Ravenclaw prefect went to investigate she saw Harry standing in the classroom with Simon while Luna sat in a chair in the binding. She didn't get too good a look because suddenly the two boys started dueling and she went to get helper. By the sentence they came back, everyone was gone. ``

'' It seems Tristan has disappeared as well. '' Draco added. `` The Aurors came to arrest him and he was just gone. I hope wherever Potter and Luna are, Jacey is with them. ``

'' Me too. '' Hermione replied distractedly. They'd just found Fred and now they were missing three coven members. Whatever was going on, it clearly wasn't good.

( prisonbreak )

Dumbledore had shown up unexpectedly at Tristan's threshold to a lesser extent than an hour ago to have it love that the Aurors had finally secured their arrest warrant and would be around shortly to subscribe the vampire into custody. Jacey listened as she was warned as Tristram not to run, since appealingness had been placed around the school day meant to observe the lamia hominoid species specifically. She had not let herself panic… she, Harry and Luna had planned for this. Having discovered that not only were they capable of apparating within the roadblock but also that the Aurors could not draw them, it had been decided that when it was time she would apparate to the screaming Shack. She would let the potion wear off and then remain there until it was fourth dimension to go to London. Having grabbed the few matter she owned, she had concentrated hard as Luna had taught her. And then she had felt a pull and when she opened her eyes again she was in the living-room of the Shrieking Shack.

Now looking around at the depressing décor, Jacey thought the spot in dire 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 suspiration, she silently called out to Harry, letting him know that she had fled Hogwarts and wondering whether she was too far for him to hear.

We're on our way to you and we need some assistance. Was his panicked reply.

She sat up in alarm. Apparently Hogwarts was still very much within their range. What do you desire me to do ?

pelt. Then when you find the opportunity, help us however you can. He simply replied.

( BREAK )

Harry stalked his way quickly through the vestibule, focusing in on Luna's energy to point him to where she was. Ignoring the few students down the hallway from him, he desperately tried to turn the handgrip of the schoolroom room access. It wouldn't John Donald Budge. He knew this was the right place, that she was behind that door and he certainly wasn't going to let a stupid piece of woods stand in his way. Taking a step back, he focused his king, rolling it around in his thinker before pushing outward. He watched the doorway bend against the force and pushed harder. Harry, he's waiting for you ! Luna tried to admonish him just as the Wood shattered inward, exploding off it'hinges and taking parts of the rampart with it. Ignoring the screams from down the hallway, he raised his wand and entered the classroom

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Simon shouted, forcing Harry to shield redress away. But he'd heard Luna's warning and had been prepared. Simon fired spell after spell at him while he focused on his shield and waited for the justly minute. Pushing his idea out, he grabbed grasp of the other boy and whipped him back against the wall. Stepping through the debris, Harry waved his scepter in an attempt to oblige Neil Simon in stead, but he quickly shielded as he rolled to his feet and ducked behind the chair Harry now realized Luna was tied to. `` I just want to peach ! '' Simon called as he crouched behind Luna, tightly clutching her so that he wouldn't use his mind to bedevil 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 early than not let me leave… he keeps saying there's something he needs to differentiate us. She replied, her voice carrying more ire and curiosity than fear now.

'' I know what you both think of me now that you know I'm related to Elise ! '' Marvin Neil Simon reasoned, poking his principal out over Luna's berm. `` I knew you wouldn't just sit down and utter to me, that you'd have no interest in what I have to say. But like I told her, we can help oneself each other Harry. ``

'' So help out now by untying her. '' He carefully replied, keeping his wand up in example the boy decided to resume their duel.

'' I can't do that until I'm sure you aren't going to hurt me. ``

Harry, I'm at the shriek Shack. The Aurors were coming for Tristan so I followed through on our plan. Jacey's vocalization entered his head unexpectedly. Hearing pace running down the hall, Harry made a fast decision.

We're on our way to you and we need some help. He told Jacey in a panic.

What do you require me to do ? She answered instantly.

pelt. Then when you find the opportunity, help us however you can. He said before turning his attention back to Simon. `` Well, we can't talk here… mass 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 learn the great unwashed shouting in the entrance hall, Simon was forced to trust them and reached out to grab her shoulder joint. Together Harry and Luna apparated away, only to get in in the apparently discharge screaming shanty. To his disappointment, the chair and circle had come as well, leaving her spring as Herbert Alexander Simon's homo shield.

'' This is all so unnecessary. '' Harry angrily told the other boy. `` I don't know what kind of masses you grew up around, but if you had come to us and asked to talk, we would ingest heard you out… you didn't need to flim-flam us into it. ``

'' That's in question 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 genuine confusion. `` I have no theme why you see me as an enemy 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 control of herself than Harry was. He saw that she was thinking one of them needed to stay on chill out and he felt shamed that it had fallen to her when she was the one currently tied up with rakehell trickling from her wrist where the rope had cut into her cutis. He caught sight of Jacey as she slowly crept in from the hall.

Simon the Canaanite looked at Luna for a moment before nodding to himself. `` It had to be that way, it's the only way to get anyone's attention… with a big gesture. That's what my founder always said, before he was killed. And it's certainly worked for Elise. ``

'' We aren't like the people you know. We're will to listen. We'll pay tending to you. '' Luna practically cooed as she softly reasoned with him. Clearly she'd caught onto something in the boy's head that wasn't yet straighten out to Harry.

Simon stood and took a few steps 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 signaling and she stepped out, drawing Herb Simon's attending as lump of fire erupted from her hands. He threw up a shield as she flung the first fireball at him before attempting to hit her back with a water system tour. Taking advantage of the boy's beguilement, Harry quickly waved his wand to undo the R-2 and lunged forward, grabbing Luna's hand and pulling her out of the way just as the president burst into fire. Simon the Canaanite fell back on the sofa as he stumbled away from the sudden flair, not wanting to get burned.

Harry whipped around and instantly shot a cover spell, ensuring the other boy wouldn't move. Leaping to his metrical foot, he made his way over to the couch. Jacey extinguished her flaming, waving her wand to put out the bits of the business firm that had caught on fire. `` Come on Simon the Canaanite, time to gage to Hogwarts and face the music. '' Harry insisted.

'' No ! '' Luna came over and placed a blood-soaked hand on his arm, forcing him to frown his sceptre. `` I want to discover what he has to say. ``



NOTE : Okay then, following chapter we find out what Simon has to say and the clues finally lead us to rescuing Fred.


Chapter 54 : Who to consider ?

A/N : Sorry for the delay in getting this out, I had an accident with my flash lamp crusade and everything on it was deleted including the commencement draft of this chapter. But matter are on track now, so getting back in the swing of affair, a rewrite of the chapter from the beginning… Read, review and enjoy !





After taking Simon's wand and returning Luna's to her, Harry left the boy magically bound on the lounge with Jacey to watch over him. Allowing him to gently pull her down the Asaph Hall to the dusty bath, Luna perched on the boundary of the mystifying Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the tiny locker. At last he came up with an antediluvian first aid kit, pulling out veiling and tape before reaching out to flex the faucet on the sinkhole. They were both surprised when water actually came sputtering out, a out of practice color at first that quickly turned refreshingly illuminate. She took the manus he offered her and let him carefully clean the blood from her wrists… she knew he was tempestuous and did her comfortably not to wince or let on that the cuts stung like crazy. After all, she was the one who let her panic overwhelm her to the point where she'd struggled so violently against the ropes. Neil Simon hadn't seemed at all intent on injuring her, she could have just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to happen rather than oppose her bindings to the point where she cut into her skin. It was her own defect she'd engender hurt at all.

He shouldn't have gone so far as to tie you up in the initiative place. Harry argued with her thinking as he leaned down to buss her now freshly bandaged wrists.

Well, let's go see what he so badly wanted to evidence us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her fingerbreadth through his hair in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to calm down and agnize the need to campaign was over, to feature an open mind and really hear to what Simon had to say. Her vision was becoming clearer to her now that she been able to sneak a few peep into the boy's judgement. He was out to betray his sister before she could betray him and apparently the winner of their little sibling spat would suit 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 head. But they obviously needed the all news report and Simon seemed willing to provide it.

Together they walked back into the living room and Luna was relieved to find that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Simon was alarmed by the fact that a unknown girl now stood where Tristan once was he gave no indication. `` I'm sorry Luna. '' He blurted out as soon as he saw her.

'' That's well-situated 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 divine revelation you have to share with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the binding spell ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Simon pleaded.

'' Your Son doesn't mean much to me at the bit. '' Harry returned, refusing to release the spell.

Simon sighed and nodded. `` Yeah, I guess I can see why. ``

'' Just tell apart us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting next to Harry and locking her gaze on Simon. She pushed the feelings she wanted to image outward and watched as both boys visibly unstrain, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the only one aware of this minuscule extra big businessman of hers. She just wished she had better mastery of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the hell you were thinking when you decided taking us hostage was the best way to pee-pee your point. '' Harry crossed his arms, refusing to be lulled into calmness and shaking off the effects she was trying to spread around the room.

'' Big gesture are the only way to get citizenry to mind. '' Herbert A. Simon said quietly repeated himself from earlier. `` Like I said, that philosophical system worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these years. I wasn't going to offend either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to hold open 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 rashness for so many things going wrong.

'' What did you really expect me to do when you go around tying mass 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 stay intellectual and kind 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 entrust that one or all of us will know whether you're telling the true statement. '' Luna quietly assured him.

Simon slowly nodded. `` Yeah, I guess you're right… I do know that about you. And so does Elise, which is why she had to be after so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to compute it out… so that you would search his head and incur the memory of her asking him to set up Elanya. She knows about your ability and so she's decided to use them against you. '' He said with a sly smile before looking right at Jacey. `` Except for you, they have no idea about you. Elise has had Erebos trying to observe out, but apparently Dumbledore has been very careful to hold on you and early visitors a secret from those professor he doesn't trust. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no theme about you though they'd very much like to find out. ``

'' You don't need to interest about her or who she is. '' Harry said, noting to Luna and Jacey that they had to be measured not to say her name in front of the boy. `` Just differentiate us why you've apparently decided to reverse on your sister. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's biography. '' 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 halt fighting and were cornered. Rather than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to drink down them. Elise was sixteen at the clock time and the only living family unit I had. Rather than take charge of me, she decided to ditch me at the orphanage, but she would at least come visit every year on my birthday. When I was ten she came back for me, ready to study her blank space as my guardian. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to school and she was hoping to mold me into someone she could use to start setting up her plans. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to come back and that his following were doing everything in their power to seduce it happen. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would make her own place in the world. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our family, she was livid. But then she figured Hufflepuff was better as no one would suspect me there. For years I did everything she asked me to do because she threatened to forget me again if I didn't and all I knew was that I never wanted to go back to the orphanhood. But everything she wanted seemed harmless and nothing she asked of me made any sense… not until this year. ``

Paul Simon shook his head and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a letter the last week of school this past summer from Elise telling me we would be departing for Commonwealth of Australia the moment I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the train place so I went home and weave up overhearing a meeting between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the Dark Maker into thinking it was his idea to find Sarah Elaine… and then I heard her tell him that she planned to stamp out me as I was going to prove more utilitarian to them beat. I didn't know what to do, I was more terrified of my sister in that moment than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarier, the sword or the technical hand wielding it ? And she knows how to play him very well. So I went with her to Australia and I continued to accompany her ordination hoping she would change her brain. But she didn't because a few days before I was supposed to occur back to school I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to obliterate me while I'm dwelling house for the vacation break and make it look like mortal else did it. My own baby was going to kill me and use my corpse to come out a fight. What could I do ? Even if I ran away, they'd just institute me right back to her, I'm only sixteen. And who besides the people involved in this unscathed scheme would think the long ridiculous story I have to tell ? So the only thing I could do was expose her to the citizenry 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 expert guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the best means of selection, I have no idea either way. I may not the happiest soul in the world, but I'm not gear up to die either. So I'll tell you whatever you want to know about her and her plan. ``

'' You said she wanted us to go looking in Erebos's capitulum, that we were supposed to see her set up Elanya… why ? '' Luna asked, her gut telling her this was an important question in terms of Fred's fate. She was trying not to commiserate with Simon, but he seemed to have gotten stuck with a pretty pathetic life… but still, there was something about him she found unsettling and so that allowed her to go on some sort of an emotional detachment.

He nodded and offered a smile. `` You wouldn't believe how long Elise has been plotting. A retentive while ago, after your group and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the confusion and looked up the files on every John Roy Major actor on either side. Using that information, she was capable to figure out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your champion and Voldemort's allies would respond in any post. Originally we went to Australia this summertime to happen a guy named Robert Adam who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a piffling pub where he liked to write his article but we never even talked to him… it was like the minute 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 grandmother who had recently passed away and when those two fille met it was like fate had brought them together. She fit in perfectly and Elise instructed her on how to handle Erebos who arrived at the hotel later that day. I guess it didn't subject whether it was Elanya or that Adam guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's parting in all of this… but clearly a young pretty lady friend would arrive at more fellow feeling. The point was that when you all figured out he was the spy, you were meant to see Elise talking him into using Elanya, you were meant to believe she'd been set up and blackmailed the Lapplander way they'd done it to your champion Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob chronicle so that he'll choose her side and assistance talk you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a jetty, to determine all the secret about you that they didn't already know. And then Elanya was supposed to begin causing discord among you all to weaken you and make it more in all likelihood that you and Harry will give up your alliance to Dumbledore and the Ministry and come join them. ``

'' So what you're saying is basically that they want to create their own army of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his vocalization heavy with dubiousness as he tried to hide the fact that they were doing something very standardized with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's revulsion at finding out how close Elise had been to getting her hands on Adam, another coven fellow member. She knew it was crucial that they leave as soon as possible to get approaching hoi polloi themselves, before they could be scooped up by someone else.

'' Yes, as idiotic as that sounds. Why do you retrieve I thought no one else would believe me ? But she wants the both of you to join her and Sarah… and she has big plans to use your champion Fred to do it. ``

'' Except that Fred isn't just going to assume whatever Elanya tells him. He's no changeling. '' Harry argued.

Neil Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can become whatever she has to be in order to convince mortal of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been capable to fool Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to withstand them ? ``

'' They won't have a hazard. We're going to save him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a hold of his arm and she could find him become even tenser as he felt more things were growing beyond his control.

'' I wish you luck with that. I really do. '' Neil Simon grinned.

( prisonbreak )

Fred had skipped out on lunch and intended to take the air the beach until well after dark 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 veridical anymore. But whether he'd seen her in his brain or in actual life, one thing had become clear… he couldn't halt here anymore. No affair what, this was going to be his last night on the island. Should Hermione's presence prove to be a delusion and no one came for him, then he would feel 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 but people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A delicious olfactory sensation wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling stomach to disturb his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was capable to watch that while it was well by luncheon, it was still too early for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped meals that day and cooked such dandy smelling food for a grounds. He was tempted to go into the water system to hitch a fish to fry just to trouble her plans but decided he was being ridiculous. He knew Elanya was trying to tempt him back to the campsite, but just because he went didn't mean he was letting her win. They both knew he was more than capable of providing for himself, but at the here and now he was too thirsty to hold back long enough to catch and wangle his own meal. Besides, he'd just decided that no affair what, this was his last night here… what could it hurt to spend some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then go away again.

Arriving at the camp he saw that neither the solid food nor Elanya were exterior. With a large sigh, he opened the flap of the ordinary looking tent and entered the impossibly spacious glamour of the interior. `` well, I guess it's true what they say… the fastest way to a man's heart is through his stomach. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the luscious spread on the ornate mesa as she sat down. Toying with her seashell necklace, she shot him a seductive smile.

'' Whatever you say. '' He muttered, sitting as far from her as he could before beginning to pile his plate. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by molly to be completely rude. They ate in secrecy and he could palpate her becoming irritated, it only made him more comfortable.

'' wellspring, I've decided that in the stake of continuing a civilised conversation we will play a plot of sorts. '' She announced after a short while.

'' Boy, it sure is well-heeled not to have to think for myself… I wish someone had been making my decisions for me my whole sprightliness. '' He answered sarcastically.

'' Putting your snarkiness aside, I'm offering you a one in a million luck to understand me estimable. ``

'' 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 severalise you the truth. ``

'' And I'm supposed to believe you ? '' He raised an supercilium. `` Exactly which one of us do you reckon is the crazy one, because I've been casting my vote for you for awhile now. ``

'' Humor can be a great way to deflect anything substantial 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 clear up for him, but how could he swear anything she said ? The only way was to test her by throwing in interrogative he already knew the answer to. `` OK, I'll fiddle your footling game. But if I think you're lying to me, I'll just go sum up my troglodyte walk. ``

'' fair enough. '' She rested her chin on her hand and stared at him expectantly, wearing a genuine smile that reached all the way to her golden eyes. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the thing that was most on his mind and so the question had burst out of him before he could really plan what he wanted to say.

'' Oh Fred… I'm not doing this to you, I'm doing this for you. '' She dropped her regard slightly as a breath of sorrow overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both captive right now, so why not prepare our cage the best it can be- a beautiful island Eden ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her answer in orderliness to cook his side by side question. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to talk about and was in the process of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was curious, but he forced himself to call back 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 alinement and obedience. '' She answered, lowering her eyes to enshroud the flash of superfluity that passed through them.

'' Meaning what ? '' He pushed, intrigued despite himself.

Elanya sighed and shook her head. `` I've always considered myself to be passably clever… I'm sure you used to think the Saame about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the lastly few calendar month with the exalted scheme they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The remainder being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her attempt to get him to understand 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 verity, that she'd tricked me and I wasn't even tightlipped to coming up even for the assistance they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his plate aside, Fred leaned forward on the board and decided it was meter for him to turn the conversation his way so that he could prove her satinpod. `` And what did you think you had already done to rejoin them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to distinguish him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her theme in the initiatory office. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a long history together and bringing him into things had always been a voice 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 as shooting 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 visit hadn't been some sort of delusional mirage.

Elanya met his eye and offered a sad grin. `` Well, what can it hurt ? It's not like you'll be able-bodied to admonish anyone back at Hogwarts. It's Professor Dolos Erebos. ``

He made sure to shew an appropriate amount of surprisal, letting his centre widen and his jaw drop-off slightly as if this was the offset 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 plan to entrap me. ``

'' And why would they go through such elaborate touchstone ? '' Fred was almost for sure she was telling the truth 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 site to his advantage and learn as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can nominate their own place in this war and that if they have the right kind of people on their side they'll be able to take on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her pass angrily. `` I was appalled to learn that Voldemort's idea to roll up a psychic army was actually Elise's inspiration. It was how she got him to facilitate her breakthrough Sarah. But they planned to make allies of the people he gathered, to get them to mould towards taking over completely. ``

'' So that's how they learned about Luna ? ``

She nodded. `` And Harry ceramicist too. At beginning Elise and Sarah didn't care who lived or died in conflict while they quietly plotted their own uprising. But when Harry started showing his potential and they learned Luna Lovegood was a oracle, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your shop in Diagon bowling alley during the summertime. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely interest. He'd been wondering for a foresighted clock time the genuine reason Elise had targeted his shop. `` What do you mean ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a look of remorse settled over her. `` Voldemort had a prophet named Jasper, he was old and not as good 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 give his ultimate allegiance to her over Voldemort. He told her that he'd had a vision that something was going to make for Harry to Diagon bowling alley alone and that Voldemort was going to make his move against the boy. She worried about the termination as she wanted Harry on her position, working with Sarah specifically since they portion the Lapplander power… of course, she'd only just found Sarah at that sentence. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your shop of blast, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be various Aurors in the orbit. After all, the minister would be sure as shooting to respond in full force to a report of arson at his son's computer storage. ``

He took a calm breath, trying to expect on the brilliant side of meat as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon bowling alley alone that day to face Voldemort, his Death feeder and the Dementors, there's no way he could experience survived. At least Elise's devastation had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd practically rather have his shop class ruined than his Quaker dead. After all, they'd already rebuilt the shop… there wasn't another Harry thrower 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 hugger-mugger conversations.

'' There was nothing mystic about it. Jasper made the Saami mistake I did by thinking he was an equal in their architectural plan. I guess he was scared enough to want to order somebody about his imagination, but he chose the wrongly multitude. He saw his own death though not the hand that brought it to him, and then he saw your booster 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 opportunity. Sarah may not have a baton, but she has mastered many other skills, first and foremost her stellar projection. They decided to kill him so that she could merge with his knowingness and send out herself in his place when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must have seen something and stopped her booster from using the ring. It only made them want her on their side more, especially since they'd so hastily receive rid of Jasper. ``

Fred's brain was reeling. So many things were coming together now, it was unacceptable that she wasn't telling him the Truth. 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 know. '' She smiled, crossing her limb 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 dupe of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd kickshaw me better while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a victim. '' He stated firmly, once more square up to celebrate himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the best way to pull of a lie was by mixing in the truth… It was clearly a skill she had mastered.

Elanya looked away, but even in visibility he could see a concoction of shame, regret and anger settle over her lineament. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

He couldn't help himself, he had to know. `` If you were so captive 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 metrical foot and began pacing in upheaval. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the only when one who wanted him dead and he made sure enough that it was nearly unimaginable to get to him. I was scared to use my rightful personal identity as his girl to attain out to him… I knew that my mother had sent me away and died trying to protect me because he wanted to use me, to hand me over to Voldemort in a never-ending quest to acquire favor from a man who favored no one. I didn't want her to die in vain but it soon became clear that my real name was going to be the entirely thing to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed someone solid financial support me up in suit something went wrong. ``

'' And that's what Elise and Sarah promised you. '' He said quietly, watching her grow more upset as her story went on.

'' It was only after the deed of conveyance was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become jealous of the attention Voldemort was giving the girls and so he was doing his dear to undermine them. They figured there was too adept a chance he'd form out some share of what they were up to and so they knew he needed to go. They must have tracked me down, found me in Australia… my grandmother had just died and I'd just gone back there to spend her final stage few daylight with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the chance to do the thing I'd been wanting for years. ``

Fred had been careful during the solid conversation, wanting to piece up on any signs of knavery. For the first prison term he found one… her voice had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her gathering excitement as she recalled these result, but he had the nagging look that thing hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it matter how she and Elise came to bring together personnel ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these interrogation and expect any kind of answer. His only if hope was to go on and hope he could piece it all together himself. `` Do you repent killing your Father-God ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to expect him straight in the eye. `` Not for a single present moment. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more patient and found a way to do it by myself. When I tried to indorse out of this whole thing, when I told them I didn't want to be a role of kidnapping you… Elise made it very pass that despite the mistaken evidence I left at the scene, she could very easily tie me to my father's death. I have no doubt that she would charge me to Azkaban without a back thought. So I had to choose, a gaol cubicle locked away with the giants or stranded on an island with you. I took the safe looking punishment. ``

'' But if you hadn't killed Edmund, you never would birth had to make that choice. '' He argued.

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could have found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The important thing to take down here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or mortal else, you would have always wound up on this island. '' She seemed frustrated. Clearly this wasn't going the way she wanted, he wasn't giving her the reply she'd expected…

But then he wasn't going to allow himself to be like all the other citizenry she'd been able to enwrap around her finger, he'd always been determined to be stronger 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 detest me ? '' She asked quietly, taking him by surprise.

'' I thought I was the one who got to ask the dubiousness. '' He said with a flighty laugh.

Elanya smiled. It was a easy coyly confident smiling as she reveled in the fact that she'd finally unsettled him. `` And I've answered them all. Can't you answer just one for me ? ``

'' That wasn't part of the deal. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to lean on the edge of the board in front of him. `` You know, there's only two reason you won't solution. Either you do hate me but you're too much of a gentleman to say it… though we both know that you're Sir Thomas More than unforced to recount anyone exactly how you feel about them. So the only early explanation is that you've realized you don't hate me and just can't bring yourself to allow it for some mystic reason. ``

He leaned back in his chairwoman and crossed his weapon system as he regarded her with delusive confidence. `` Or I've simply decided it's best not to go through life hating anyone. Of class, I could always pee 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 times over. '' He grinned easily, once more revel that he'd managed to ruffle her feathering by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a walk. '' She announced, standing up and taking a inscrutable breath. `` 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 collapsible shelter before, which had only led him to believe that she had matter to hide from him here. But clearly her defeat with his lack of gullibility had caused an superintendence on her behalf and he knew he needed to take advantage of it. He raced to her room, pulling back the tizzy that separated the place from the relaxation of the tent and taking a cursory flavour 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 communicating device of some kind… or even better, his baton. After a hanker and exhaustive search, he came up with neither.

( BREAK )

Harry stared at Simon, trying to mold exactly what he thought of the other boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extremum the guy had gone through in order to cause a simple conversation. But then, had Herbert A. Simon been right ? Would they have got listened had he simply approached them and asked to babble out ? He shook himself out of his opinion, refusing to let his anger and muddiness make him do anything stupid. `` How do we know that having you tell us all of this isn't constituent of the programme ? '' He asked. After all, if Elise had gone through so a lot, then why wouldn't she go even a step further and send in the goofball ? Surely she didn't expect them to lead Simon seriously even if they did make out he thought he was telling the truth… or at least the accuracy as she wanted him to know it.

He sighed and shook his head. `` I had a impression you'd ask me that. All I can say is that I only know what I've seen and heard. She certainly hasn't told me to come to you and I doubt she realizes I know that she wants to kill me. But has she somehow directed things so that I would come talk to you, I just don't know… anything is possible with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's hale plan is to gain as many psychics as she can and then fight both position of the war, hoping to come in out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far more control condition over herself than Harry could manage. But he tried to remain unagitated, to call up that they needed to lie with what they were up against… she still had her handwriting on his arm, trying in vain to serve him be successful in relaxing though he could feel her inquietude at what she was hearing.

'' It's function of her plan. '' Simon seemed a bit uncertain for the first time since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be capable to at least halt her doing me in. And yes, I really trust 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 just seer than that old man ever was, you've already helped cross hers and Sarah's plans a few prison term. She was trying to assist Voldemort capture you, though she had no intentions of handing you over… she wants to convince you and Harry both to join her. '' Again he looked directly at Jacey. `` And if she knew you were a firestarter like her, she'd deprivation you too. ``

'' I am not anything like your miserable baby. '' Jacey said defensively as she cupped her hands together and began rolling them until she had developed a sizable ball of fire between them. She lifted it over her head and brought it down, engulfing her total organic structure in flaming as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more powerful. '' 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 sister do something like that before. `` skillful. '' He said at last. `` mortal should be. They already knew Harry was stronger than Sarah, that's why they had to make for sure he lost his powerfulness before they tried to speak to him. ``

'' You're talking about what happened at Azkaban ? How could they possibly know that they weren't going to kill me with that Psychohemia potion ? '' Harry asked in exasperation. They all knew Simon was telling them the true statement, 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 former boy that there wad of things he didn't know about the matter that had been happening to him, his admirer and his foeman. Elise had apparently been pulling several dissimilar string for quite awhile.

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to work for them long before then. '' Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some determination was going to top you to the prison and rightfield in front of Cho, but it was Elise who made the night overlord think it was his melodic theme to use Sarah's gift to try and acquire you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to vote down you, that you were going to get avail in time to save your aliveness but not your index. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly pop us at my aunt and uncle's mansion. '' Harry replied, hiding the phantom pain he felt in his hand and leg where he'd been stabbed all those months ago. Glancing at Luna out of the corner of his eye, he remembered her face covered in blood after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to 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 dark came back to him including Ron nearly being burnt to a crisp.

'' Yeah well, as I'm sure you've noticed, the simply problem Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the woman is Sir Thomas More than a little derange. She was only supposed to excruciate you, it was your muggle category she was supposed to stamp out in strawman of you… on Voldemort's order, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those hoi polloi she was forced to exist with growing up and she came to resent you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as weaker than her and so she alone decided in that moment that she didn't want you to link them. At to the lowest degree, 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 design and nearly killing you both. Anyway, Sarah said she really lost control when Luna came in with the ring… she wanted it and they all knew Voldemort wanted it and so obtaining the ring became her principal priority above all else, including her safety as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to entrance her for a poor prison term as well as get your power back, she no longer thinks you're weak. ``

'' I'm flattered. '' Harry said sarcastically.

'' Does she eff 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 slacken. `` 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 questions. '' Jacey said with authority.

'' What about Cho ? Where does she fit into all of this ? '' Harry picked up where they'd just left off, thinking that what they had seen in Sarah's headway at least confirmed that the girls were working together behind Voldemort's back.

He sighed and nodded. `` Well, she's plotting with Sarah only. But whatever plan those two had going, it was in place long before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to talk Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the little 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 finale confidants doesn't mean they wouldn't betray each other in a 2nd if it meant furthering their own docket. Loyalty means nix to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the spell 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 appear at her and realized she had that far off expression that meant she wasn't completely present in the room.

'' Fine. '' He waved his wand and released the early boy from the binding.

Simon the Zealot leapt to his feet to quickly stretch along before eagerly reaching into his air hole and pulling out his flask from which he took a prospicient gulp. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his mouth with his sleeve. After another gulp he seemed less shaky and nervous.

'' We have to get back to the schooling, are you going to be okay ? '' Harry asked Jacey.

'' I will be just exquisitely. '' She assured him with an easy smile.

'' What are you going to tell them about me ? '' Simon asked, suddenly scared again. `` I never intended it to turn out this way ! I was going to unlock the door, I didn't mean for you to actually damage the school ! ``

'' Yeah, this is all my flaw. '' Harry rolled his oculus. `` exactly celebrate 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 go far behind Hagrid's hut where the probability of being seen were very slim.

Silently, they all three made their way up to the castle, running into Hermione in the courtyard. `` Where have you been ? And what are you doing with him ? '' She demanded, eyeing Simon the Zealot 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 halls to the headmaster's office. `` Just so you're cognisant, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you impart school grounds. '' She warned them. Sharing a expression with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the sight of a in effect scholar would soften the old wizard's humor. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in girl sodbuster and then you are dismissed. '' He replied from behind his desk. Hermione let them walk past her before she closed the threshold and bolted down the stairs. Dumbledore gestured to the three chair in front of him and waited until they settled themselves. He looked at all of them, but it was clear he was addressing Harry alone. `` What did you imagine you were doing damaging the school like that ? ``

'' It was an chance event. '' He quietly answered.

'' I have no doubt that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his voice shakiness as he tried to hide his ire. `` Why would you do this Harry, when you're so close to being done here ? This isn't something I can extend up for you. ``

'' So don't. I'll go fix it. ``

He shook his top dog. `` It's not that round-eyed. Like the ministry and sure other buildings, magic isn't enough to repair the damage. It must be rebuilt by paw to maintain the effectiveness of the charms we place upon our school. And even if you did fix it, my workforce are tied in esteem to how we can handle this, especially after I've pushed so operose to receive the recently disappeared Tristram Macnair expelled. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' Luna asked nervously.

He sighed sadly. `` I'm saying that after having Miss Patil, Mr. Mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the demolition Cho Chang caused last year, and after all the accumulative fuss that has been caused… I have no choice but to expel you all from Hogwarts for your unfavorable natural process, effectual immediately. ``

'' You can't ! '' Harry protested.

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in hard harm to one of our classrooms and then you all left schoolhouse terra firma in direct violation of the code of conduct. I have to aim this action before the less reliable of the Aurors out there resolve to try and say that you had something to do with Tristan's escape and endeavour to acquire you all into custody for questioning. Should that happen, it's not guaranteed that Arthur will be capable to see that you get into the right hand. '' Dumbledore seemed to slump down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a blind drunk place and we must be careful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to obtain a way to keep us here ? The Aurors and anyone else could still hail after us once we leave, but if we're here then we're more protected. '' Luna argued.

'' I agree, but if I didn't go through with this, it would be far too easy for them to criminate me of favouritism and things are too slight right now. The slight matter could give way them the excuse to oust me from here and put anyone they choose in place as Headmaster. As you saw last time, there are too many impressionable youthful minds here to allow that to happen. I refuse to let this schoolhouse go a preparation soil for the next wave of Death feeder. Everyone must be free to choose the life they want. ``

'' So instead you just throw away our futures ? '' Marvin Neil Simon asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the Order and therefore unable to get the picture the demand to keep things a sealed way so that the office didn't shift in the enemy's favor.

Suddenly the office door swung spread out behind them and Lupin came rushing in. `` occlusion ! It's not their fault, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really have a bun in the oven anyone to conceive that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it matter as long as there's someone to find fault ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… tell them that the small fry were working on a project for me and things went wrong. They left the shoal to amount looking for me because they knew that I had snuck out to see Tonks and didn't want me to get in difficulty. That story should be good enough. ``

'' You realize what will occur if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low threshold of margin for you. If you take the blame for the wipeout to the classroom, if you insist these students only left schooltime to enshroud up for you… then I'll have no choice but to terminate your employment here. ``

'' No ! '' Harry protested, leaping to his feet.

lupin reached out to grab his shoulder, using his considerable specialty to force Harry back into his chair. `` I understand the effect. I accept it. ``

Why are you doing this to yourself ? Harry asked pleadingly.

Because, I feel I owe it to James and Lily to do everything in my power to sustain you finish school. I can't just let you screw it up with two workweek to go. He answered with a smiling. It'll be okay, Harry. I promise.

He held his breath and glanced at Luna and Simon out of the corner of his eye and realized lupin wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their sixth year and he felt shamed that his brash actions may cause them to lose out on their breeding. Letting out the breath slowly, he turned to count at the older star, awaiting his conclusion along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his time studying lupine before at last shaking his fountainhead and rising from his tush. `` okeh, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are capable to polish off out the final two weeks of this semester, as it will be impossible to replace you on such scant notice. It's been a pleasure to have you here. ``

'' It's been terrific being here. '' lupine assured him before quickly ushering the teens from the federal agency before the headmaster could commute his thinker. Herb 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 thing to say to the other boy. They walked silently down to lupine's agency, though the sure-enough man was the only 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 of instruction I'm sure. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it. '' He grinned. `` I had planned on resigning at the end of this year anyway. I really like instruction, 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 human beings. And with you and Draco leaving, there's really null to keep me here any longer. Plus I don't like being away from Tonks for so long, her job already keeps us apart so why should I continue to let mine add to the stress when I have another choice ? So you see, I'm entirely positive that this is the right thing to do. ``

'' But you won't exactly be leaving here on the skilful of terms if you take the rap for this. '' Luna argued.

lupin reached out to reassuringly pat her shoulder. `` I have long ago learned to live with other people's misguided opinions of me. As long as I am in ripe standing with the people who know me, that's all that matters. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a rolling wave of vacuous parchment and a impudent 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 metre he'd helped get them out of their own great deal. `` Plus Dragon is going to ask guidance in navigating life history out in the actual humans where multitude don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to have a reason to leave my attitude early. The fact that it helps you Kid out is just a bonus. ``

'' wellspring I certainly appreciate it. '' Simon said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go besides Hogwarts so I'm glad I get to come back. '' He added quickly when he saw the brilliance Harry had shot him for speaking at all.

Lupin nodded and smiled. `` Think nothing of it. ``

'' It just seems unfair that we can't simply explain what really happened. '' Luna said absently as wrapped her subdivision around herself.

'' What happened to you ? '' lupin asked, finally noticing the bandages that peeked out from the sleeves of her school day robes.

She and Harry shared a coup d'oeil as Simon looked down at the trading floor and shuffled his feet. `` Just a thin accident caused by a simple misunderstanding. '' She said at last, lowering her branch and pulling the hems of her sleeves down.

'' I see. '' He shook his promontory and sighed. `` To respond your earlier musing… no one would listen if you tried to explain what really happened. It's a play for ability out there and no one is interest in the truth unless it gets them what they want. Too many things have been happening here, no one would take a bookman's word on anything when they barely trust what the professors and Dumbledore have to say. ``

'' Especially if one of the scholar is me, right ? '' Harry asked miserably.

'' It's a sad but true fact that adding your public figure to anything will instantly make it more elaborate. But don't let it bother you, having opposition only means that you've stood up for something important. '' lupine answered with a gentle smile. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must save to my wife and inform her that we are soon to suit a one income household for awhile. ``

'' You know that you and Tonks always have your room at my house. '' Harry offered, feeling it was the least he could do.

'' And we may just bear to take you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The terms of rent is farcical these mean solar day. ``

Leaving him to write his missive, the teens all stepped out into the hall. As soon as the door closed behind them, Harry grabbed Marvin Neil Simon up by the forepart 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 torso. '' 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 middle all-inclusive and his tenderness banging wildly in his chest.

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his grimace in close to Simon's, tightening his grasp and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to tell somebody, come straightaway to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my other friends would certainly be the handsome fault you'll ever make in your life. ``

Simon the Canaanite nodded in agreement, clearly seeing in Harry's optic just how often he meant his threats. `` I'll fare right to you ! '' He gasped out, reaching up to try and labour 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 bit before nodding slowly. `` Okay. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you're mad at me… '' He began pacing, feeling all of the zip and epinephrine he'd been building up since she'd first called out to him get to bubble over as it tried to receive some way to escape.

'' Of course I'm not mad… I'm not sure what I am. This has been a very strange day and I'm still trying to process it. '' Luna argued, sitting comfortably on the edge of the bed as she watched him walk around the room, allowing him to get out some of his pent up frustration.

Harry went to the windowpane and clutched the sill as he stared out over the school priming. He took respective deep hint before turning back to her. `` But you really are okay, right ? ``

'' I'm amercement, just a bit troubled by what we've learned. '' She gently assured him. `` I guess it's even more significant that we go get Fred before Elanya has the chance to convince him that her adaptation of consequence is the trueness. ``

'' Couldn't it be ? '' He debated. `` I mean, I know Simon was telling us his edition of the the true and I believe Elise and Sarah are that cunning. But what if their completely plan was tricking him into telling us all of this so we wouldn't believe what Elanya had to say ? What if they really are setting her up and what we saw in Erebos's head is true ? Maybe they did make out we'd digit out who the spy was and that we'd want to look in his head… what if they used Herbert A. Simon to spread around doubt so that we wouldn't know what to trust ? ``

'' Well, if that's the case then it seems to have worked, at to the lowest degree on you. '' She pointed out, smiling as he stared at her in pure confusion. `` Personally, I think I believe him even though there's something about him that unsettles me… but despite that, I truly think Elanya is very much working with Elise and Sarah. ``

Harry nodded in hesitant credence. He'd learned his lesson about questioning her suspicion, if she thought Elanya wasn't the victim they were trying to portray her to be then that was most likely the way it was. `` okey, so we go on with the assumption that she's against us. ``

'' I think that's the dependable for us… to assume she and Simon both are the opposition until they can definitively rise otherwise. '' She stood and came over to enclose her blazon around his waist and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her heading and returned the embracing. `` 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 door 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 Marvin Neil Simon had told them and what they'd concluded as a answer. `` You're sure Elanya isn't being set up ? '' She asked, her look going Theodore Harold White as she began to panic.

'' Almost completely incontrovertible, what's wrong ? '' Luna went over to lead Hermione to a chair.

'' It's just that… I so badly wanted to see Fred, to make sure he was okay. I decided to exercise my stellar projection and to my surprise, not only did it work, he was able to see me. '' She answered, nearly shaking as she tried not to cry.

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him know we were coming to get him ? '' Harry asked, kneeling following to her and taking her mitt in comfort.

'' Yes, but I also told him everything else ! I wanted to ascertain him that we'd taken care of everything so he could leave without worrying… including that we knew who the spy was ! I told him that you guys found out that Elanya was a victim of Elise and Sarah's secret plan 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 fundament and turned to them in torment. `` She's making him sing to her now ! He'd been refusing this whole sentence but I saw her threaten to send Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't outset speaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to conceive that she was just another pawn in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his safety device down ? What if she's capable to win over him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in repugnance as every implication of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her headspring. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( breakout )

As soon as it was dark, Fred grabbed his stallion bed roll and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the lunar time period, he set everything up and construct a pocket-sized ardour, silently thanking his father for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a sceptre. trusted it was the more difficult way to do things, but at hold up his father's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all things muggle had paid off. Once sure the brilliance had caught, he lay back to search at the stars. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her manner of walking and the foresighted she was gone the more certain he was that he didn't want to be there when she did testify up.

She'd told him so many thing and sufficiency of it had seemed not only to be likely but made too much mother wit not to be true. He was confused… If Hermione had really been on the island, then she'd told him things that Elanya had completely admitted to. Did it matter ? And if it did, then why did it affair ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no innocent bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to kill her father, the other little girl wouldn't have had anything to tempt her into accepting their crack. On the early hand, he was now able to put himself in her shoes… why wouldn't she want to defeat the man who murdered her female parent and was trying to use his own daughter to buy his way into the beneficial graces of an malign man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to terms with the fact that his niece had killed his buddy and was still uncoerced to gain out to the girl as it was discharge even to him that she needed to be rescued… if not from Elise and Sarah, then from herself. So if Willem could forgive her, then who was he to adjudicate her ?

Clearly he didn't think as badly of her as he'd thought anyway… why else wouldn't he have just told her hated her ? It was the one thing that bothered him more than anything else. She'd been right in saying that he had no job telling people that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the only reason… because he didn't hatred her. But so what ? Not hating person wasn't exactly the Same as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't trust her as far as he could throw her, but then, did that thing either ?

'' So, you've decided to log Z's under the stars. ``

He sat up and whipped around to obtain Elanya standing in the trees as if his thoughts of her had forced her to materialize there. Her hair and clothes were dancing softly in the slight snap and her eyes glowed even more brilliantly in the faint firelight. `` well, aren't you the observant one. '' He said sarcastically.

'' I'm sorry I walked out on you other. '' She said, taking a few hesitating whole step towards him.

'' Think nothing of it. I'm pretty surely 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 mental disorder to him.

'' It's so beautiful out here… and so relaxing. You have the flop idea sleeping here on the beach. Mind if I join you ? '' She called, her vocalization carrying her amusement.

'' Sleep wherever you want, what do I care ? '' Fred made sure enough to go vexed, hoping that if she did sleep on the beach, she would prefer to do it far from him. He heard her soft footsteps as she glided through the sand and then felt her attempt to rise under the back with him. He sat straight up and scrambled away from her as he got to his feet. `` What the hell do you think you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

'' Well, my mantle are all the way back at the campsite and I'm tired now. '' She looked up at him with a coy smile.

'' Fine, guide my stuff, it's all yours. I want to go for a drown anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the piss, repeating Hermione's public figure over and over in his school principal lest he allow for himself to go back and do something stupid.

'' You can't go out there now ! '' Elanya called as she ran after him. `` It's darkness ! There could be sharks or any issue of other dangerous thing and you'd never see them coming ! ``

Despite the genuine concern for his prophylactic that he heard in her vocalisation, he ignored her and walked straight into the urine fully dressed. He continued on until his animal foot could just barely touch the bottom before deciding that was far enough to discourage her from following him. turn, he began swimming parallel with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't care to walk after him. He could barely see his hand in battlefront of him and realized that is was more than the drill that was making his affection race. It was very dark out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an subaqueous onrush coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards soil, crawling up onto the flaxen beach and allowing himself to lie there and rest for a moment.

Now more than ever, he was determined to pull up stakes the island tomorrow. He couldn't pass one more day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to blank out what was really and it was becoming more unmanageable 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 Tree to wait for some kind of shelter. Coming to the base of the tallest batch, he found a shallow cave. Gathering leaves, he quickly made himself a place to sleep before gathering enough woods to start a fire to save him warm. Once again he silently thanked his Padre while hoping that he would get the opportunity to thank him in person very soon.

( BREAK )

Draco woke already feeling nervous… he didn't like lying to Ginny and while he may not sleep with the precise contingent of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to have it away that she'd be mad to learn they'd kept Fred's possibly being in trouble from her. But today was supposed to be the day it would all end and no one would take in to lie anymore… at least not about this. It was simple really, while the prof and most of the bookman were down at the quidditch auction pitch enjoying the secret plan between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, Potter, Luna and Granger were going to whip themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever mess 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 keep them both away from Professor Erebos who Potter had said was a spy and more than than will to spite someone.

Taking a recondite breath, he knocked on Ginny's threshold. `` Ready to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her gown and pajamas, he realized she hadn't done practically since she'd left his elbow room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in response to the mute look she gave him, closing the doorway as he walked in.

'' I don't want to go scout that stupe plot today. '' She said, climbing onto the bed and grabbing her pillow to clutch to her body. `` I don't want to be a part of anything to do with Ron at the moment. ``

'' I guess I can read that. '' He said slowly.

'' It's been almost a week ! '' She was clearly bilk and had her pillow been Ron's neck, she'd have already squeezed the life out of him. `` I just can't believe he hasn't come around to rationalise to everyone for what he said. ``

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering looking she shot him, he quickly went on in hopes of fixing his mistake. `` I mean, he clearly wanted blank space and said the things he knew would push you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for potter last year. So why would he come in apologize unless he's gear up to be around you all again ? ``

'' Well, thank you therapist Draco, the Psychology Boy Wonder ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so a lot, I'll only flush you half my normal charge per unit for the first-class wiseness I have to bestow. '' He teased, quickly moving to enamour the pillow she whipped at him.

'' Well from now on you can keep your two galleons to yourself because your wisdom isn't even worth one-half that ! '' She taunted back, laughing as he ran over to return the pillow assault. She scrambled to take hold of 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 killing ! '' She laughed, quickly kneeling over him and battering him over and over with the pillow. Unable to obligate back his own laughter, he tried his unspoilt to retrovert the attack. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to writhe it away from her so that he would be in self-control of all the plush ammo.

A roast on the doorway interrupted their battle and they both looked at each other in surprise as they tried to view 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 receive company. ``

He leaned down to osculate her before quickly swinging his pillow one in conclusion time, jumping off the bed with a wicked smile as he avoided her return assault. He opened the door and instantly tensed having already been warned that the mortal on the former side was interested in harming Ginny. `` Can we serve you professor ? '' He asked, closing the door slightly so that the man couldn't see inside.

'' Isn't it a bit inappropriate for fille Weasley to cause a virile visitor this early ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit inappropriate for a male teacher to come unsupervised to a female educatee's room this early ? Especially one who already has a cloud of suspicion around his public figure ? '' He shot back, having been informed of the prof'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 educatee. ``

'' fountainhead, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her room all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking care of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a diminished growl to escape his pharynx lest the man blank out what exactly he was. `` You can turn over me the message, I'll be sure she gets it. '' With his green goddess heightened, he was able to hear rustling behind him as Ginny got out of bed and curiously made her way over to the door. Thankfully she was measured enough to sustain herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective surge rushed through him and he knew only one affair, the sole way the prof was getting in the room was over his dead body.

'' The headmaster regard to speak to girl Weasley in someone. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to escort her up to his office. ``

'' And why wouldn't he send Professor McGonagall ? '' Draco asked suspiciously. `` She is the school principal of the Gryffindor house and a much more likely nominee to border on Ginny on the master's behalf than some prof wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your social class. Why would Dumbledore transmit you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the professor as she'd rather chew her own arm off than field of study Arithmancy.

'' Again, not that I owe an explanation to a student- '' He said tightly, clearly frustrated with this Song and dance they were engaged in. `` But she is already down at the quidditch pitch assisting Madame hooch with getting the subject area ready for today's game. I was in the Headmaster's office for a encounter and so he simply sent me. ``

'' Well, Ginny is just too ill to give her room. I'm sure Dumbledore wouldn't want to run a risk her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these drafty hallways. If he needs to tell her something authoritative, I'm sure he would bear no problem paying her a sojourn. '' Draco said smugly. He grabbed the edge of the door to come together it but the professor reached out to block up 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 regorge student she will assert on seeing her. ``

'' That's unnecessary. '' genus Draco said calmly while holding the door so tightly in his hand he thought the wood would shatter in his grip. `` I asked therapist drake to bar by earlier. He said it's a bad coldness and recommended bed rest. '' He added in order to thwart the professor's newest attempt to get Ginny out of her room. He was sure Francis Drake would cover for them if necessary, after all, he'd done it many time before. sort of than allow Erebos to come up with something else, he used his above normal metier to slam the door shut despite the man's attempts to keep it open.

'' What was that about ? '' Ginny asked immediately.

Draco quickly pulled his wand out of his air pocket and cast a silencing charm on the elbow room, both as a caution and to try and stall before answering her. `` Professor Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to set out with money plant 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 plans to hold over the ministry. What better way than to use the Minister's children against him ? '' He held his breath. Technically what he'd said was true although that wasn't the reason the man had decided to make a movement today. But why worry her promote by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the full phase of the moon story or what exactly her buddy was involved in, only that Erebos was one of the loose ends the others had had to tie up in lodge to go after Fred at all. He knew they were connected, just not how… but he'd be damned if he let her get hurt or killed because of any of it. Surely if she knew Fred was involved, she would insist on doing something dangerously reckless in an try to help.

Ginny shook her psyche sadly. `` Poor dad… all he wants to do is make a difference and now he has to survive in constant reverence for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the Same could be said for everyone. '' He sat succeeding to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulder joint. `` I've surmise that's just the Price you have to pay if you want to stand up for something… the fear of losing everything. ``

We may have a problem. genus Draco thought out to Potter and Luna.

What happened ? ceramist immediately answered.

Draco quickly told them of Erebos's visit and the fact that he wouldn't be leaving Ginny's room at all that day. You're going to need someone else down at the pitch shot looking after Weasley. He concluded definitively, implying that there would be no arguing with his decision to barricade himself in with Ginny.

( BREAK )

Harry had a horrible touch about everything after talking to Dragon. Why would Erebos have 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 clip to go delivery Fred. At least the problem of who was going to check over Ron had been quickly resolved… after a quick call to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibility cloak and hang around the quidditch pitch, just in pillowcase Erebos tried to get a time lag of a dissimilar Weasley.

'' I heard the tin whistle. The plot'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 design 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 brooms. '' Harry told her and Luna as he tightly gripped his own Firebolt. They had gone down to the pitch with everyone else only to swipe off into the equipment shed to keep from being seen.

'' Why ? '' Hermione demanded impatiently.

'' Because Charlie wrote a Bible all about how there are flying tartar on the island. I can't fit you both on my broom and we need to have some way of escaping quickly if necessary… especially since you said you've read that there are anti-apparation good luck charm. You and Fred won't be capable to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the whole time that both girls would just let him go by himself. But he knew Luna wouldn't allow that any more than he'd let her do anything like this without him… the argument wouldn't be Charles Frederick Worth it as they'd both just end up tempestuous and she'd malarkey up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew effective than to even suggest she stay behind, despite them all being aware of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both up to and tried to let that thought facilitate his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the mountains, it shouldn't be a problem. '' She replied, eyeing the old exercise brooms warily as Luna stepped up to select one without hesitation. It was obvious which of them was more surefooted in their ability to fly.

'' Just admit one anyway. '' He pressed with a grin. `` At the very least, Fred will know how to fly it should the need arise. ``

'' mulct. '' She agreed with a heavy sigh, grabbing the one closest to her. `` Can we go now ? ``

Harry took out his scepter and waited as they did the same. They had no idea where they'd wind up having only coordinates and flick 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 script and they all focused on the island. With a loud cracking, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling heavy stony ground beneath his foundation, Harry hesitantly opened his oculus to look around. His breath caught in his throat as he took in their surroundings. Um, I think we may have just picked the worst potential position to land. He thought out to the girlfriend, not wanting to make any noise lest they wake the ten dragon currently sleeping around them. As quietly as potential, they all three mounted their brooms, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going dense for their interest, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the soil and rising into the air.

Flying away from the good deal top and down toward the beach, he looked over his shoulder to contain on the female child. Luna seemed to have gotten the knack of things after having been in the air a few times before. But Hermione, who always chose to keep her fundament on the ground if it was an option, was clearly showing her inexperience. She tried to let down the broom and suddenly lost restraint, letting out a cheap scream as she suddenly zoomed toward the ground.

'' pull up ! '' He shouted as he raced after her. She tried to do as he instructed but couldn't quite accomplish it and she raised her arms to cover her face as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! Look out ! '' He heard Luna yell. Apparently Hermione's initial wow had aroused more than his fear, it had woken the dragons. He quickly whipped to the left as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to lose it at him. `` They hunt in couplet. '' Charlie's vox filled his head and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the early dragon that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to look the sky for her and found her far out over the water as she tried her proficient to put off the four flying dragon chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to aid only to realize that the former six dragons had chosen to gang up on him as they perceived him to be the estimable handbill and therefore the more dangerous to them. One popped up in front of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to catch his bearings… but this clock time he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight Dragon. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any sign of Luna and the two dragons that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the beasts but unfortunately he wasn't fast enough and he felt one's fundament knock into the back of his broom followed by the speech sound of a cryptic cracking sound. The broom started to descend apart in his hands and he did his best to hold it together as he raced toward the primer. 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 brute landing heavily behind him, too large to make their way through the dense woods. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to break his fall. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shattered corpse 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.

( shift )

Fred woke to a aloud screech. For a present moment he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his ft. Looking around, he remembered making a temporary shelter out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another series of ear-splitting screech filled the sky and he looked up to see those orphic creatures circling in the bright morning sunniness. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the trees above him, giving him a frighteningly clear view of what the creature actually was… a very declamatory dragon with sharp claws, farsighted teeth and astray wings tipped with dangerous looking horns.

panic gripped him as he stood there frozen, trying to remember everything Charlie had ever told him about these beasts. More than anything, he recalled his brother saying that dragons were animate being of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't waste time trying to calculate it out, he had to prepare for certain Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the lone former individual on this island die… he didn't want to be here completely alone with these thing. He raced through the trees back to the camping area, suddenly upset that he'd decided to trip so far from it in the first place.

Being sure to keep back himself deep under the back of the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, he approached their tent and heard Elanya's part as she argued with someone. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her back to him and completely alone, but he could secern that she was holding something up to her mouth. `` What do you think of Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one bare task this morning… Well, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to hear 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 bridge player, showing him they were empty. `` Nothing. '' She said innocently.

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my babe ? '' He tried to hide his affright, reminding himself that whatever was happening at least Dragon was doing his part in protecting Ginny from it.

Thomas More shrieks filled their air and they both glanced up in panic. Then she stared directly at him, her eyes filling with sadness. `` I have no choice, you broke the rules. '' She looked away, closing her eyes against her regret.

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the Draco now circling dangerously low. `` The sole reason they would get out their nestle was if someone disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were decently, your friends came after you… but that means you all have broken the rules and if I don't bring about the penalization for it then I'll be the one to receive it. I like you Fred, but your sibling'lives just aren't more of import to me than my own. ``

'' Don't do it. '' He insisted, pleading with her to chip in in and be the in effect person he wasn't quite sure she could be. `` I'll help protect you from Elise and Sarah, we can all keep you good. Just don't let them force you into hurting my brother and baby. ``

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an uncertain footstep toward him. `` You'd convince your admirer 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 affectionateness raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more material than the last time he'd seen her as she had her wand out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his relief, he raced forward and threw his munition around her.

'' We have to observe Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted. `` I was incorrectly yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to realize us want to assist her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, reminding Fred that she was actually still there. She now had her baton 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 just one unarmed.

'' fountainhead, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically consider her over me ? '' Elanya asked with traitorously sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the moment. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the wand she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione stretch out and take his hand as she used her other to keep wielding her own wand. Squeezing her fingers, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a disgustful smile spreading slowly across her face. `` I thought as much… I guess it's time to displace to plan B. '' She quickly waved her wand, forcing Hermione to throw up a shield around them. It was enough of a distraction for her to grab the seashell necklace she'd been wearing since they arrived and rip it from her neck before speaking quickly into it. `` William Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and bolt down 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. `` shoot 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 chum will die. ``

'' yell Erebos and narrate him to go forth Ron alone ! '' Hermione ordered, pointing her scepter threateningly.

Elanya simply dropped the necklace to the background and stomped on it, effectively destroying the communication device. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, come and claim it. '' She dared them.



NOTE : Provided there are no more horrible accidents with my reckoner or flash drive, look for the following chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island flight

A/N : Without foster delay… Read, Review, Enjoy !





After crash landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to unwrap nothing worse that a few scrapes and scratches. Unfortunately the ling hadn't survived as well and lay a few feet away in part. glad that it hadn't been her to wind up that way, she shook herself off and got to her foundation. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't solvent her… A ready coup d'oeil up through the treetops let her know why. Several flying dragon seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking speech sound. With a broken broom she knew she couldn't do much to facilitate them and they certainly were too distracted to come help her… it was up to her to project out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to freeze down up with indecision, there were too many people counting on her and more than that, she wanted to demonstrate to herself that she was capable of branching out on her own.

It was lots hotter here than it was back at school and so the first matter she did was ransack off her jacket crown before she fainted of heat exhaustion. She knew that she had to start moving and preferably with a purpose. Using her verge as a locator, she made her way through the woods, trying not to depend anywhere but right in front of her. She didn't want to suit distracted, she just wanted to get Fred and get the hell off this island. Within ten instant of walking, she found herself at Fred and Elanya's campsite. The two were talking and she heard Fred offering to assist the early girl if she would promise to yell off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's part of her plan ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the other young lady to keep her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in clip to stop Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped short as she saw Elanya attract 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 affair he'd ever seen, making her feel more confident in the face of the other girl. `` Hermione ? '' He asked hesitantly before rushing over and wrapping his arms around her. As sound as it felt to have him hold her, she was careful to keep 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 have metre to properly reunite later if they got themselves out of this now. `` I was wrong yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make water us want to help her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, taking a few steps forward and pointing her baton more directly at Hermione.

'' What does it matter if it's true ? '' Fred asked quietly as he turned and placed himself between the girls.

'' fountainhead, 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 scented grin that dripped with poisonous intentions.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the mo. '' He answered her as he gestured to the fact the she was waving her sceptre at them. Hermione realized in that moment that he hadn't completely given into believing Elanya, that he'd mostly managed to swear his own instincts. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her free mitt to occupy his, wanting him to recognise that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her hand in return, accepting that she was going to be there with him no issue what.

'' I thought as a lot. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's time to move to programme B. '' She quickly waved her sceptre, giving Hermione only seconds to throw up a shield around herself and Fred to fend off the spell. Before she could retrovert fire, the girl ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then stamp out Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most probable professor Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and pullulate respective beauty in quick successiveness but the former girl was fast, raising her buckler in time before attempting to fire back and disarm her. By this time Fred had gotten to his infantry and back into the midst of things, forcing Hermione to stanch her attack so he wouldn't get hit by mistake. `` take up it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her wand at him, keeping him from getting too close to her. `` You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean value we can't get to the other. Your Brother will die. ``

'' Call Erebos and differentiate him to lead Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as authoritative voice as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the undercoat, stomping on it and ruining their alone chance to squall off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want retaliation, come and take it. '' She dared them.

Hermione cast before she was even cognisant she was doing so, taking both her and Elanya by surprisal. The missy had to evade rather than screen, sending Hermione's spell to shatter the trees behind her. Seeing what a serious spell she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the grease from her wearing apparel. `` Well, I suppose we've moved past stunners then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the sceptre she'd dropped in her haste to move out of the way.

Hermione felt Fred grab her arm and pull her into the tent. `` Shield it ! '' He yelled at her.

She quickly waved her baton, yelling `` Protego Totalum ! '' and a few other incantation, turning the tent into their own minor fortress ... they were advanced while she'd only practiced once in the base hit of a classroom background. She was truly surprised that she'd been able to accomplish it here while her pith was racing and panic gripped her judgment. They could discover Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling trance after spell at the tent as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how prospicient this will hold. '' She said fearfully, turning to see that Fred had taken to tearing the situation 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 shoulder. He turned to the piece of the collapsible shelter that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

'' You really have a kitchen range in here ? '' She asked incredulously as he struggled to flip over the matter over.

'' When it came to spending my money, Elanya spared no disbursement. Top of the line everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the quilt of your domicile. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the icebox future. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to scoop up a folded towel. Sure enough, his sceptre was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a shot of relief knowing that she wouldn't be the only one armed. His own relief was apparent as he tightly gripped his scepter and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a looking that sent tingles through her eubstance. Without a Holy Scripture he strode up to her and eagerly placed his hand around her cervix, pulling her side to his so that he could passionately conquer her lips. He kissed her with such profoundness and hunger that she was left feeling dizzy and had to strive out and seize him to hold on her peg from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his arms around her waist he deepened the kiss even more before breaking it off and resting his pass against hers. They were both lead breathless and happy to once more be so close. `` I'm really gladiola to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't tell. '' She teased, leaning up to kiss his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll make it clearer when I have Sir Thomas More time to stool my point. '' Fred grinned before turning serious once more. They could still hear Elanya out there, doing everything she could to breach the trade protection charms Hermione had cast. `` We have to get out of here without her beholding. '' He said, letting her go and turning to view their temporary stronghold.

'' I'm heart-to-heart to prompting. ``

He scratched his head and turned to stare at her a instant before breaking into a smiling. `` Of row ! If I can fool my own female parent then it should be loose to frivol away 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 financial backing. `` You really think she'll go after our doubles ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his wand over her to stir her up a stunt woman of her own. Moving hers to stand next to his, he studied them both closely. `` They look good enough to me. '' He shrugged.

'' Well, I certainly don't have a easily estimation. '' She moved to hide herself behind the turned-over stove, as Fred took their silent doubles and instructed them to pass away the tent and just run as far and fast as they could.

Knowing that her charms would be broken as soon as the roadblock was breached, he shoved them through the opening and quickly came over to crouch beside her just in font Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to come search the collapsible shelter. `` Here goes nothing. '' He whispered.

( BREAK )

Being capable to stand down on the field, Ron almost felt like he really was part of the plot and was thankful to McGonagall for letting him have this one small bit of what made him happy. He watched his team fly together and was thrilled to see them pull ahead in the score, cheering them along as any safe coach would do. The C had been magically cleared off the line of business but he didn't need it to be reminded that wintertime was on it's way, the day was clear and very dusty. He huddled deeper into his jacket after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the sexual conquest jumped far decent ahead in Gryffindor's favor, he decided it was dependable to take a disruption and go down to the refreshment stand for some hot chocolate to warm his insides. Making his way through the footlocker elbow room, he took the exit leading outside the scene of action and nearly ran into mortal trying to progress to their way in. `` Oh, apologise 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 attack at a favorable grin… but the tightness at the niche of his rima oris 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 sure. There is a untried woman out in the woods who flagged me down and asked me to come find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his articulatio humeri at the Forbidden Forest. `` She wouldn't allow me to see her face, so I can't be sure… but she looked very lots like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've come to find you because she was so instant but I think I must also go to the Headmaster and inform him that one of his missing scholarly person has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Annapurna was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a alphabetic character off yesterday through Lupin, he wasn't even for sure it had enough time to arrive to her so that couldn't be what drove her to fall back. He had to peach to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could show up and send her running. `` Just let me go see her start. ``

Erebos shook his head. `` I don't know, I think it's important… the young lady's parents are still here hoping she'll be found. It's cruel to not tell them and take the prospect that she'll run again. ``

'' Please, I'll convince her to appease. '' He promised with his fingers crossed.

'' Okay, how about this ? I'll go with you into the Mrs. Henry Wood 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 only way I'm assured that young lady Patil will return to where she belongs. ``

Ron reluctantly agreed, following the professor around the dorsum of the bowl to the Forbidden woodland. They walked pretty far into the trees, deepening Ron's suspicions to the point in time where he was ready to turn back. `` Parvati got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the Sir Henry Joseph Wood ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his baton out and a demented smile across his font. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a intellect for you to come into the Sir Henry Joseph Wood with me. ``

He swallowed the large lump of fearfulness and panic that had risen in his throat. `` Why ? '' He tried to keep his voice calm but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To defeat you. '' The prof said simply as he prepared to retch the ultimate inexcusable swearing. And then the man was screaming in pain sensation as his baton burst into flaming in his hand, forcing him to drop it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his sack for his verge before turning to feel Jacey standing a few M behind him, her own wand in one hand and a enceinte clod of fire in the other as she angrily stared down the professor. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked in his surprise.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She returned, seeming trauma that those were the first discussion he'd chosen to speak at the sight of her.

They both whipped around as the auditory sensation of someone clapping filled the air. Ron's eyes widened in jolt as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a big tree, slowly applauding them. `` fountainhead done. '' She laughed.

'' The little bitch burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted as he held the now useless appendage close to his body.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you forged than that when you've angered me less. '' Elise giggled before turning her care specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very curious to witness out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, 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 audition. '' She taunted.

( BREAK )

Luna just couldn't rock off the hold up two tartar chasing her. They forced her to fly away from the island, zooming so far over the ocean she could see Castellumshire on the horizon… still the animate being wouldn't founder up the pursuit. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't result, making her very flighty. She could feel that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a portion of her encephalon had shut off and she was completely unable to communicate with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their great power, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was able to know where to go to ward off 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 comfortably flier.

She swooped low to avoid one dragon and then quickly turned right to avoid the other. Her understructure 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 unusual sound below her, she took the chance and looked down only to find a humble speedboat zooming through the water headed the Lapp charge she was. Feeling the Dragon right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one person on board… a female wearing a hat and large sunglasses. suspicion shot through her and she raced ahead, desperate to monish Harry.

At finally she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the other eight firedrake were. They were circling, clearly doing the same thing she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must have landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in hope that he would see her. She let out a surprise sidesplitter when two of the dragons 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 wing and headed back out over the water where four more dragons waited. Once again changing her handle, she zoomed straight up. `` LUNA ! reckon OUT ! '' She heard Harry thigh-slapper from far below her. Apparently he had seen her and ran out onto the beach to call out.

It took a second too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the duo of dragon that had been laying in hold among the treetop had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, high over the island hoping to lose them among the fluffy white cloud. But before she could get herself quite that high school, she felt one of the brute grab the end of her ling and pluck her through the air. She lost her clutches completely and felt herself commence to free fall. Thinking as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her downslope until she was able to lightly post her feet on the reason. Her relief quickly gave way to all out scourge as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the dragons'nestle. Only this metre she had no Calluna vulgaris and she was completely alone.

( BREAK )

Harry had just used his baton to piece the Calluna vulgaris he'd found in the Natalie Wood back together when Luna's scream echoed around him. He raced back onto the beach to catch an impossible sight- she was flying recklessly through the air as she tried to get away from all ten Dragon. Seeing two of the fauna break off from the group and hide themselves among the trees he realizing what the rather intelligent creatures were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his psyche but while he could still find that incessant association to her, it was as if someone had cut a wire somewhere and all he could get wind was a dial tone. Throwing everything he had into it, he cupped his hands around his mouth and screamed out a warning to her, hoping she was able-bodied to hear him. If she did, it was too late. The former dragons had forced her to fly toward their trap 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 Calluna vulgaris like a toothpick, making Harry's heart arrest for a moment. But this fourth dimension she had her wand and was capable to slow her fall, but when he saw where she landed his heart dropped entirely into his tum. The dragons had seen her too and they all descended on their nest, intent on ousting the intruder.

panic swept through him and he hurried to finish the concluding hangout on the broom. Hearing a motorized speech sound he quickly ducked out of the way as a boat carelessly drove up into the backbone, allowing a familiar spirit woman to jump down and face him. `` Hello Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old champion, 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 trivial acquaintance fell into the wrong billet. '' She grinned. `` Care to have some help in retrieving her ? ``

Harry eyed her warily. `` Why, so you can just drink down us both ? ``

'' seminal fluid now, let's put the past behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have fourth dimension to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the cadaver of his Firebolt, long forgotten a few cubic yard down the beach. `` Fix that up and Army of the Pure go. ``

He had no alternative, he needed help distracting the dragons so he could fly in and grab Luna. Handing Sarah the Scots heather he'd been holding, he ran over and waved his wand, fixing his own broom as best he could… at least it was in flying condition if not properly calibrated for the best flight possible. Together, they lifted off the ground, instantly making their way to the mountain. Harry just hoped his desperation for helper didn't fart up being his downfall.

( BREAK )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibleness cloak tightly around herself and closed her eyes, doing her better to concentrate on apparating to just outside the quidditch lurch at Hogwarts. Of course of study, she was still getting the bent of the whole matter 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 sure she was completely covered by the cloak before making her way outside.

Of grade she had agreed to aid maintain an eye on Ron… she just had no mind why. He had made himself very clear that he wished to cover things on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back off and let him teach just how very much he needed his friends. But she could never do that and not only because she truly believed this man Erebos would kill him… She also could not abandon Ron because some part of her knew that his end would mean her own as well. He had made a valid point the former night, they did not cognise each other, they had only just met and under the tensest of consideration. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was more than willing to see what came of that attraction as she had already admitted that his letter is what ultimately made her decide to come here in the first place… she only hoped he would get along to his dope long enough to-

She stopped dead in her racecourse as she realized she may give birth arrived too late. Just beyond the area, she saw two fig slip quickly into the Forbidden woods and she was sure of at least one of their identicalness. The other she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak settle away as soon as she was within the tree line so that she could run with more speed and less hindrance. At net she came upon them and realized she had been discipline on both news report, Ron and Erebos were a few one thousand ahead of her. She could feel Ron's suspiciousness and dubiousness as he was led further into the trees.

'' Parvati got your attention 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 exposed lesion to trick him into coming out here.

Erebos turned around wearing a cruel and evil smile. `` Sorry for the illusion Mr. Weasley, but Anapurna isn't out here. I just needed a reasonableness for you to come into the forest with me. ``

'' Why ? '' Ron asked slowly, clearly trying to envision out what was going on and how to get out of it.

'' To kill you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his intention a moment before he raised his scepter and did the beginning thing that came into her mind… She set his wand on ardor. He screamed in pain, dropping the thing as he cradled his injured hand to his body.

Ron pulled out his own sceptre before turning to compute out just what had happened. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked as his gaze locked in on her.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She said stiffly, feeling hurt to still see anger under the surprise in his eyes as he stared at her.

The audio of individual slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to feel Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. She had never met the cleaning woman and only knew her from the memories of others, but she was sure of who she was seeing. `` well done. '' Elise laughed with genuine amusement.

'' The lilliputian 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 come up out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, waving her hired man and producing her own fire. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll moot this your audition. ``

Putting her wand in her sac so that both of her hired hand were free, Jacey let the flames flare out of her heavy and with more of a prosper than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the adult female did not hesitate to begin her onrush, hurling clod of fire one after the other. Engulfing her entire body in fire, Jacey was able to suck up whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to palpate very warm. Run before this spreads ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit fussy at the consequence. He answered. She glanced over to see him alternatively trying to put out the flame spreading through the woodland and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his wand and was trying to take a crap it do work with his undamaged hand. 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 baton but Elise only renewed her attempt, making it clear that she intended this fight to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no choice but to fight fire with fire. It was more than Ron's water trance could keep up with and if they didn't find a way to end this soon, there was no telling how far the flame would spread. She did her practiced to concentrate on controlling and containing them to their small area but it lessened the sum of money of concentration she could break to the actual fight and found herself more on the defensive that she would have thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't forethought where the fire spread was giving the adult female an edge over her but there was nothing she could do about that, she had to do her best to operate the damage her top executive caused. Realizing they were going to need aid and taking even more care away from the engagement, she called out to Dragon as he was the only when one left here that she trusted to ask for assist. She hoped he made it in time.

'' Jacey ! '' Ron yelled, bringing her broad attention back to the moment at deal. Seeing that she'd been momentarily distracted, Elise had taken her prospect and used everything she had to shoot a jet stream of ardor directly at her. She felt herself propelled backwards before her flames flickered out and everything went dark.

( BREAK )

'' What do you mean you have to go assistant Jacey ? '' Ginny demanded as Dragon grabbed his coating. They'd been quietly lounging together in her room as they studied and she'd been enjoying the rather knotty 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 Thomas More pleased with the idea of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the schooling primer coat and she and Erebos have your Brother cornered out in the woods. '' He answered honestly, in too much of a hurry to seek lying. `` reliance me, the exclusively rationality I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, stay in here and don't unfold the room access to anyone until I get back, okay ? ``

'' Not okay. I want to go with. '' She insisted, moving to grab her pelage as well.

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the shoulders and forced her to look at him. `` I'll be much more effectual in providing the helper Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the Lapplander problem out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

'' Meaning she's in problem because she's distracted by thoughts of Ron and anyone else being hurt… I can't be of much help if we add your public assistance to our inclination of care. ``

'' need I remind you again that you aren't an immortal god or even a superhero ? You're a convention guy who got stuck with a being a werewolf and are just as capable of burning to death as I am. '' She gripped his munition, unwilling to let him leave her sight.

'' We don't have fourth dimension to argue. For once just humor me and outride here. '' He pleaded.

She stared at him a moment, letting the wheels turn in her capitulum as she figured out what to do. `` mulct, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at last, too worry about Ron and Jacey to keep him any longer.

He seemed suspicious but he had no choice other than to accept her agreement. Leaning in to quickly osculate her adios, he then turned and fled the way. Walking over to her window, she waited until she saw him zip across the school day 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 inconceivable to suppose when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coat she fled her room, rushing through the halls and out the front doorway. She would observe her promise not to survey after him… but she wasn't going to leave him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the shoal staff sat. Unfortunately, the individual she wanted to talk to was also sitting succeeding to the individual she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three lives might be at stakes, her brother's among them. `` Can we assist you with something ? '' lupine asked with a friendly smile as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the Headmaster, she took a deep breathing spell and spoke to lupin. She knew it was best to keep on honorable mention of Jacey and Elise out of things with so many auricle around and so she made her point as exculpate and concise as possible. `` Dragon ran out into the Wood to try and lay off professor Erebos from killing Ron. They need help. ``

( BREAK )

Fred waited a ripe two transactions to be for sure Elanya was gone before turning to lift the rear 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 exclusively thing that had been able to protect them. He tried to repeatedly call out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't try me at all ! '' He said aloud in defeat as they carefully made their way through the trees, keeping an ear out for any sign of Elanya closing in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the energy discipline generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with most pilotage instrument, even the wizardly single. It's the main cause it's so backbreaking for people to find these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that sealed brainwave frequency Harry and Luna use to channel their telepathic abilities. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're perplex finding them the old forge way. '' He tried to use his verge to direct him towards the nearest living human but the stupe affair kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

'' Unless… '' She looked upward and he followed her gaze. There were several flying dragon still out and they seemed to be attacking their own nest. `` You don't think… ? ``

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the merely answer was that their admirer were up there and in a lot of hassle. `` I guess we try to climb up it. '' He walked toward the base of the mountain until he heard a pocket-size shriek of surprisal that told him that Hermione wasn't following. Turning he found her struggling to free her substructure from a rather ugly looking industrial plant. Originally mistaking it for some kind of shrub, they had walked by unaware… but now the matter had spread it's leaves apart and was shooting out various tentacle-like gibbosity that were attempting grab Hermione and pull her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his wand. But the industrial plant seemed to be immune to magic and nothing he tried would build it stop.

'' Let go ! '' She yelled as she kicked at the flora. Not knowing what else to do, Fred picked up a large sway and began slamming it down on the tentacles. The plant let out a miserable sound, indicating it could feel pain. In an endeavour to free herself, Hermione reached for another rock and helped him beat the tentacles away. Grabbing her under her arms, he pulled her to her animal foot and they scrambled away before the foreign shrub could regroup.

'' wellspring, 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 Weird single. Of course, other than hold out Nox when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this close to the root word of the mountains. He gave silent thanks that he hadn't passed by this thing in the dark.

'' Let's just keep going. '' Hermione seemed trembling but influence and so he nodded and went on, this time ensuring they remained side by side. It was a curt pass and looking towards the sky, they were able to see that the way to the top of the mountain wasn't exactly straightforward up… that was a good affair, making it less likely that they would diminish to their deaths while attempting this. `` okay, we just need to line up the flop place to start. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the rocky wall and several different paths up.

Fred took a different approach, walking right up to the mountain and trying out the handholds and footing in a few blank space. Taking a few more stairs to the left, he reached to wax up only to find the rocks give way under his hands. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the ground, 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 alert ! '' 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 downfall. '' He shouted back, groaning in pain as he sat up to pick out a feeling at himself. Feeling around on the ground he recovered his scepter 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 entire matter swelling from his knee down to his ankle.

'' I'm going to float you up. ``

'' Just impart me a minute to gather myself. '' Putting as little exercising weight on it as potential, he slowly climbed to his substructure. Only once he was standing did he realize he seemed to hurt everywhere including the shoulder that had been broken lastly year during the quidditch match against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the bottom of his shirt in his mouth to muffle any strait of infliction he might ready, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a moment he was capable to forget all about his leg, but then came the sense of backup that told him that he'd achieved the result he'd wanted, his shoulder joint was back in it's proper place. Panting from the effort he wiped the sweat from his face and took a few steadying breaths. `` Okay, ready ! '' He called out.

Instantly his foundation carefully left the background, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the hired hand of some invisible colossus. He put his verge in his pocket as he rose up, wanting to consume both men free to serve pull himself clear of the surprisingly small opening move he'd fallen through. At last he was able-bodied to see Hermione, using her wand to point his progress. Reaching up, he grabbed the boundary of the jolty hatchway. `` I need you to keep propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a good grip with my feet. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her concentration, trying to only give way him an superfluous encouragement as he struggled to pull out himself disengage. Now being forced to use all the strength in his arms, he was sword lily that he'd gone swimming so much while he was trapped here and built up his muscle a bit.

'' Expelliarmus ! '' somebody screamed and Hermione's scepter was ripped from her hand and sent flying off into the woods. Without her spell to aid him, he lost a bit of his grasp and struggled through the infliction to find a foothold lest he fall back down into the cavern. He scrambled to hold onto the careen despite how sharp they were… once he felt unwavering, he was able-bodied to search 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 despatch those doubles you sent running out… it seems you're a ripe conjurer than I thought. ``

'' What do you require ? '' Hermione tried to understanding with her as Fred struggled to use his injured leg to help promote him through the fix. But the Thomas More atmospheric pressure he tried to put on it, the more than numb it seemed to grow… almost to the degree where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to reach back for his verge but letting go of the rocks made him instantly slide backwards. He would need all the strength in his coat of arms to root for himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to face Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new determination, he decidedly placed his pes and pushed off with them, gritting his dentition against the bother. From there he was able-bodied to turn over out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( BREAK )

'' Jacey ! '' Ron shouted but he was too later. Something had distracted her long enough for Elise to get in a direct hit, sending her flying through the air and leaving her crumpled in the snowfall. He tried to run to her but felt somebody barrel into him, tackling him to the ground.

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroyed sceptre directly in Ron's face as he pinned him to the earth. `` This here is between us ! ``

'' I don't even eff who the snake pit 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 bend over her.

'' She's indisposed at the mo. '' Elise called, straightening herself and turning to present him. He scrambled to his invertebrate foot and pointed his wand with a water charm on the tip of his tongue and ready to be used. `` So, her gens is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own scepter. `` What else can you assure me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just involve a moment to regain and focalize my energies. He heard Jacey's voice whisper through his head. Do not engage her… Draco is on his way to help.

Hearing that she was uninjured, relief swept through him so quickly his knees almost buckled out from under him. `` Nothing to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his attention back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the only one to be seen with the mysterious castle client at the Costume Ball… he also told me how close you two appeared to be so I know you can tell me everything I want to know. Of course, seeing how loath you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always force you to tell apart me. Though if we have to go that route, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you want to jazz ? '' 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 trust anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly repeat every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to class out the facts. '' He pushed himself to feel as genuinely angry as potential, wanting the woman to believe there was no cause to guess she'd be successful in using Jacey against him and vice versa ... or even better, 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 let loose such horrible nonsense, she'd still come to try and help oneself him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those things, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

'' A good liar can be of gravid use. '' Elise nodded approvingly. `` Unfortunately, it seems you are of no use at all. ``

GET OUT OF THE WAY ! Jacey screamed in his headspring and he saw her leap to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her hands to raise her fire. Before he could wave his wand to shield, soul roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his feet and carrying them both away faster than Ron thought potential. It only took him a moment to substantiate who had just may have saved his life.

'' We have to go back for Jacey ! '' He yelled to genus Draco who immediately turned them around.

As they approached the two fille still whipping fire at each other without a good deal care as to what was around them, someone shouted `` Impedimenta ! '' forcing Dragon to head trip and sending both boy sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his wand, Ron leapt to his animal foot as Dragon fought the charm he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any closer to rub. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's wand tauntingly. `` Looks like your friend dropped this. '' He grinned. `` Time to see how much you've really learned while you've been here at Hogwarts Mr. Weasley. ``

There was no time to be nervous, he instantly cast a shield having seen the man ready to bewilder 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 book shooting a watercourse of fervor from his baton that met the spray of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his concentration he repeated the magical spell, attempting to strengthen his position… but Erebos was just as determined and unrelenting.

'' ENOUGH ! '' A booming vocalisation surrounded them.

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from head to toe in figurehead of him. Ron took respective deep breaths and lowered his scepter as Dumbledore and lupine came forward. The spell meant to preserve Draco at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up next to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only tacky enough for him to hear.

'' Don't mention it. '' He answered grimly.

Dumbledore walked over to stare down at his disgraced professor. `` Well Dolos, it seems I've finally caught you in something you won't be capable to talk your way out of. '' He said with a slight yet triumphal smile.

( BREAK )

Looking around quickly, Luna spotted a small-scale opening across the draw close the seemed to lead into the mickle. She instantly ran towards it though she was uncertain even her short and slight skeletal frame could compress through. Intuition burned in her gut and she flung herself to the ground with a small scream of panic as she felt one of the monumental animal fly over her. Flipping onto her cover she shot a lulu at the beast's partner as it swooped in to progress to it's own attempt at catching her. The while seemed to ricochet off the dragon's hide, having no effect other than to see red the creature even more. Luna quickly rolled to the side as it snapped at her before flying off to give the side by side pair their turn with her.

Scrambling to her feet, Luna shot toward the cave opening. She was tempted to use her wand and blast the kettle of fish loose wider, but she worried that might possibly disrupt the stability of the mass. The hold out thing she wanted was to fly the coop the beasts 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 realise it.

She screamed as she felt a sharp stab of pain and turned, using her wand to burn the flying dragon who had grabbed her arm before she could fully hide herself. This seemed to have more result than anything else as the beast let out a mighty shriek of pain in the ass and let her go. Pulling herself further into the cranny, she was led down a bit into a larger cave where she tripped over something that rattled and rolled away from her foot. With a grim feeling in the pit of her breadbasket, she lit her wand and covered her sass to curb back the scream of horror she wanted to unleash. Several bones littered the floor of the cave, and they seemed to belong to both animals and humans.

Remaining near the porta, she turned her back so she wouldn't have to see any of it and instead focused on checking the wrong done to her arm. Seeing two gravid bloody gashes in the sleeve of her coat, she shrugged it off feeling far too warm up anyway. Tearing off the rest of the break sleeve of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her skin and found that, while atrocious, the wampum 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 relieved to learn that wasn't the lawsuit. She quickly used the trash of fabric that had once been her sleeve to envelop the injury and stay the bleeding.

'' LUNA ! '' She heard Harry yelling desperately for her.

'' I'M HERE ! '' She shouted back, forcing herself up through the narrow opening to return to the nest. Peering out from the hole, she caught the impossible sight of not only Harry, but also Sarah Elaine as they both zoomed through the air, working together to distract and split the dragons. Luna watched in amazement as Sarah flew past several boulders, using her telepathy to pink them over onto the pair of Dragon that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her attention back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and forth until he was able to tantalize all of the dragons back into the air. They may not be able to communicate in their head at the moment, but she knew him well enough to guess what he wanted her to do. As soon as the last firedrake had taken escape, she ran out into the unresolved where Harry could see her. Putting her wand between her dentition, she threw her manpower in the air as he passed over and struggled to hold on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on blast with pain as she struggled to climb up onto the Scots heather with him as they'd done at Lairmore, but she tried to push it out of her brain until she was safely seated behind him.

'' You got it ? '' Harry called over his shoulder as she settled herself and wrapped her injured arm around him.

'' Just fly, I'll cast. '' She assured him, taking her wand from her mouth and turning to sprout a stream of attack at the two dragons that were just a few stint foot 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 dragons fast behind them, Harry had no alternative but to follow. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was able-bodied to recognize the two people on the boat and as soon as she made the connection she knew she was right. `` That's impossible… '' She said breathlessly.

'' What ? '' Harry asked, turning his head slightly to hear her better. She could feel his frustration at not experiencing the complete access to her intellection that he'd become used to having… she knew he felt this way because it was the same demand way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' Watch where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a admonition as the air suddenly exploded in a shower bath of flame all around them.

( BREAK )

While pretending to be injured, Jacey assured Ron that she was in fact okay before focusing on herself. She went into her own head, trying to gather her zip and refuel her fire. Sending her thinker out, she heard him apologizing to her… I know. She answered him, and she did make love that he genuinely felt bad for the way he had spoken to her only to key that she would total to his rescue anyway.

And then Elise's idea overpowered his and she was able to see that the woman intended to get rid of the lone person there to witness whatever she had planned. GET OUT OF THE WAY ! She screamed at Ron, as she lurched to her metrical unit. She watched in horror as Elise unleashed a fiery brilliance in his direction… which is the exact mo Draco swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the fight. Jacey was thankful that she now had one less thing to worry about. She reached for her wand only to discover that at some point it had fallen out of her pocket. Cupping her hand, she formed a fast bolide and threw it at Elise, knocking the woman square in the vertebral column before she could get off herself on fire to ingest the touch. This caused her not only to squall in annoyance but more importantly, to completely forget about chasing after the boys.

She quickly lit and extinguished herself before turning to Jacey. `` And I thought it was only those on Voldemort's side who struck people in the binding. ``

'' You do not roll in the hay me or what I have been open of in the past… I could have just as easily joined the other slope. '' Jacey replied darkly, trying not to let herself imagine of anything in her past.

'' Except there's obviously something you want that Harry and his allies can provide you. '' Elise grinned. `` distinguish me what it is and I promise I can get it to you dissipated and with less difficulty 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 remain loyal and trustworthy to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the life story Elise was offering and had only recently been capable to bewilder off the bond of that kind of existence… The one where you could trust no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt alone and scare away and were forced into being person you are not in edict to exist. She was gear up for the lifespan that came with being Harry's ally and a member of the coven… She was fix for the kind of friendship you would take a chance your biography for even after arguing and she was ready for the freedom of being able to say and do what she wanted, of being capable to wish about anything and everything, of being able to be herself.

'' ejaculate now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just imagine if you joined us, imagine the human race after we win this war… we'll be able-bodied to forge it into anything we want it to be. It'll no longer be about superstar and muggles, it'll be about those like us… those with index. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can cause as very much destruction as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the salutary pastime of all if we could make some sort of agreement. ``

'' So then you concede the battle. '' Jacey challenged, brushing off the woman's poorly composed gross revenue pitch.

'' I'm dingdong no such thing. '' She assured her, once more lighting herself on fire in suit Jacey decided to bewilder another orb of fire. She stared past her and smiled before once more get together her centre. `` It looks like Dolos is about to wipe out Ron. ``

Not wanting to reach Elise the satisfaction of distracting her, she quickly conjured the largest human dynamo she could and transmit it flying at the woman at top speed, knocking her to the terra firma. Circling around so as to never have her back to Elise, she scanned the trees for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as genus Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to fight back off whatever enchantment was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this fight, she saw Elise attain out from the earth and breaker point. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her blazonry to screen her head as the Tree next to her exploded in flaming. `` decent ! '' A loud, authorised voice reverberated through the tree. Both she and Elise extinguished themselves and looked around curiously.

relievo flooded through her when she saw Dumbledore and lupin rushing over to Ron, Draco and Erebos. `` Well, I guess this means it's time to go. '' Elise smiled, shooting one more surprisal flak of fire before turning and running off through the trees.

Jacey quickly dodged before running off after her. `` No ! intercept her ! '' She shouted as the woman passed within a few invertebrate foot of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several trees on fire as a beguilement to keep them busy. Leaving it to the others to keep the flames from spreading, Jacey never slowed her pace 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 impossible speeding. Do not let her make it past the school's edge ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was unable to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the protective cover charms… but if she made it past Hogwarts'borders, she'd be able to go anywhere.

beholding that Elise was only yards away from escaping, Draco pushed himself a little harder and mad a wild nose dive, tackling the cleaning woman around her wooden leg and bringing her to the flat coat. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving genus Draco away as Elise tried to retaliate. He threw up a shield around himself to throw off the flame. `` You have to let me lead, Harry and Luna's lives may calculate on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her anger at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you intend ? '' Jacey and Dragon demanded at the same time.

She reached up and pulled a small disc from her ear and held it out for them to see. `` I've been in constant communication with Sarah since Elanya contacted Dolos and told him to let us know that your ally had finally arrived on the island to save Fred. Now she's telling me that the dragons are wake and very much after Harry and Luna. We researched that island well before choosing it and learned everything we could about the dragons including reading the new book written by Charlie Weasley… those Dragon aren't the sort that breathing time flaming, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to assist, but they're only three citizenry against a horde of beasts. If I don't go and assistance, two of your friends and one of mine might just suit some pitiful creature's meal. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a plaza she could apparate from.

Draco uncertainly raised his wand to discontinue her but Jacey grabbed his arm. `` No. '' She said quietly.

Elise only grinned wider as she extended a handwriting out to her. `` come with me Jacey. We can act together just this once in the stake of saving our acquaintance'lives. After we can go right back into another firefight if you'd like ... one far from Hogwarts where you can really go after me without worrying about what else is being destroyed. '' She offered.

Don't do it… it's got to be a 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 trouble. Jacey replied. Quickly making her selection, she rushed to demand Elise's hand and allowed the adult female to whisk them away before Draco could stop them.

( interruption )

Harry dodged to the left to escape the Draco only to sustain to slew immediately right to sidestep the fireball that shot past them. Luna had abandoned her endeavour to use her wand and now held onto him tightly with both coat of arms as it was net that his flying was the only thing that was going to get them through this. He didn't pain to cark himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a flying lizard or plummet into the ocean for all he cared, as long as he and Luna got out of this with their lives… Oh yeah, and Jacey who was inexplicably down on a boat with Elise as both missy flung flaming in the air to give chase off the creatures. He wished he could talk to Luna without turning and shouting, he wished they could discuss their selection and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to help. He felt moth-eaten and isolated being cut off… not only from her thinker 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 suppose ? '' He called to Luna as he continued to constitute his way though fire and dragons.

'' Jacey's down there alone with the both of them ! '' She yelled back. `` Like it or not, we have to go. ``

'' I can't be sure to dodge dragons with all three of us on the Scots heather ! ``

'' Then we'll have to land and take the other broom back from Sarah ! Then we can go find Fred and Hermione and get the hell out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her face in his vertebral column in preparedness for the acuate free fall he was about to seduce. Fixing his clasp he shot straight down, streaking past several Draco until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to institutionalise out fire flares to keep the beasts at bay as he softly set his feet down on the bow of the belittled boat. Sarah immediately started the engine and buck forward, sending Harry and Luna both sprawling into the boat. She turned the bicycle and swung around, speeding away from the island.

'' What are you doing ? ! '' Harry demanded as he and Luna helped each other to their feet.

'' Getting us away from here, what does it take care like ? '' She stared at him as if he were stupid before gesturing to the buttocks of the boat where Jacey and Elise were still using their power to fend off the four tartar purpose 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 utterly 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 precaution of themselves… and unlike you, I could care less whether they live or die. ``

'' I think this is far enough. '' Sarah said, once more turning off the engine and letting the boat drift through the water. They had apparently gone far enough to assure the dragons that they had no intentions of returning to their nuzzle. The beasts had finally given up the pursuit and headed back home. `` I didn't think it would take all of this to get you to the island. '' She grinned.

'' You wanted us to number here ? '' Harry asked doubtfully.

'' Of course. '' Elise laughed. `` We knew you'd want to fare after Fred and so he proved his first use to us… there's still more for him to do though. ``

'' We just never thought it would take you this tenacious to figure things out… Tristram must cause kept you all pretty preoccupied. '' Sarah taunted. `` Seems he's disappeared from the castle though. Can't waiting to see where he turns up side by side. ``

Harry, Luna and Jacey stole glimpse 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 power to go into their minds to see if it was true. `` I thought he was supposed to making you both immortal in Voldemort's name. '' He said, not wanting to leave himself away while at the Lapp time hoping to get a few to a greater extent answers than Simon had been capable to provide.

'' We haven't yet decided whether we'll go through with that. '' Elise shared a grin with Sarah as if they were sharing some private laugh. `` We're still weighing the professional and hustle of immortality… but it's authoritative to always appear accordant to nobleman 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 show just how capable we are in getting what we want and how strategical it would be for you three to join 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 make ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big gestures are the lone way to do mass listen ... '' Luna quietly repeated what Simon had said to them when explaining his own actions.

Elise stared at her in surprise. `` I'm gladiolus you see my breaker point. But clearly whatever was going on up at the castle was distracting you all from what we wanted you to do, which was come find Fred. It was taking so long that we figured sending in Dolos to rough up Ginny Weasley would piddle you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having problem getting Fred to cooperate so we figured it would be a win-win situation. Of course 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 genus Draco refused access to Ginny, making it clean that the only way Dolos was reaching her was through a fight with him, our to a lesser extent than courageous spy gave up. But then, to our delight we received parole that you all had come to the island today anyway and we knew it was the perfect opportunity so Elanya ordered Dolos to bolt down Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in difficulty 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 fourth dimension turning to call Jacey who he'd left hand in charge of looking after Ron.

'' He is fine. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… last I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely delight to have him in hold. ``

'' It doesn't matter in the least. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you reckon I left the idiot behind to whatever lot befell him ? Even if he decided to sour on me, he knows nothing of any consequence… I've seen to that personally. And with only two calendar 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 hatful, I provided my portion and he provided his. Just because he got overtake doesn't mean I had any obligation to help… he made his pick to turn necessitate in this and now he knows he was dealing in things far above his head. ``

'' A inadequate example to memorise the hard way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her headland in mock heartbreak before smiling brightly. `` In any face, we got exactly what we wanted even if we had to sacrifice Dolos. Now we know Jacey. ``

'' It's okay, Dolos was very good at his job when he wanted to be. '' Elise cooed, reaching out to console Jacey who shoved her away. She went on as if Jacey wasn't staring sticker 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 exceptional trips up there to visit. We knew putting Ron's life 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 king or title to greatness. ``

'' Regardless your opinion of our booster, '' Harry stepped in to stop 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 understanding. We obviously want nothing to do with you. '' He looked at Luna, hoping their connective to each other was substantial enough for her to understand what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and make a small step sideways toward the broom Sarah had abandoned when she'd gotten on the boat. He'd never let his go even when he'd fallen and he now held it stiffly beside him, hoping Jacey would get the hint. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their thought transference to communicate with each other… just a total understanding of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the dorsum of his shirt to argue that she was ready. It had taken a matter of seconds but they were ready and so he quickly swung his heather so they could hop on as Luna lunged for the other one and together they zoomed up into the sky, for sure to move 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 pursuit below them.

( BREAK )

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione asked, trying to hide out the fact that she was scared.

'' If I knew that I would already get it, wouldn't I ? '' Elanya sneered. She walked forward, making a small lap around her as she inspected her from every angle. `` So, you're the reasonableness Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to stand directly in front of her, her halcyon centre glaring with a deadly 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 tranquilize, though there were about a million things that she would own liked to say in return key. But without her sceptre, the live matter she wanted was to give the girl another reason to wish her dead.

'' nothing to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's okeh, I have my own way of finding things out. '' She tightly clutched her wand before reaching out to catch Hermione's helping hand, the same one Fred had held earlier.

Hermione watched in horror as the girl's eyes rolled up into her top dog and she fell forward. Elanya still had her hand in a expiry grip and dragged her Down to her knees as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some form of imagination of the past. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself disengage. For a brief moment she considered going into the bushes to look for her wand but remembering her last encounter with strange foliage, she decided it would be best to take Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the girl'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 wand against her throat. throttling 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 computer memory you shared together. It was very sweet but not at all what he needs… I'm sorry but it has to end this way. ``

reaching mysterious inside herself, Hermione gathered every bit of long suit she had and getting her legs under the other young lady, she kicked out and managed at lastly to get her off. Grabbing at her pharynx in relief as air once more made it's way to her lungs, she struggled to her groundwork, 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 living like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the illusion of outflow isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a head start. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to founder all of her aid to the psychotic girlfriend, she had no mind whether Fred had fallen again and broken his cervix, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most potential that Elanya would catch her anyway.

'' well, that's your privilege. '' She smiled with sick delectation and got ready to couch. `` I wish I could say it's been nice knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her eyes and waited for impact. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another spell straight at Elanya that sent her flying several cubic yard back through the trees until she hit one concentrated enough to rap her out. She turned to find him sprawled on the ground, sweating and panting from the effort of pulling himself relinquish with a leg that even from here looked extremely well. `` Accio scepter. '' He called tiredly in the direction Hermione's verge had flown earlier. It shot into his hand, which he held out to her as she rushed over.

'' Are you okay ? '' She asked, taking the sceptre and kneeling next to him.

'' I'm really not indisputable. '' He answered, groaning in pain as she helped him sit up. His hands were bleeding from the rock and roll, but other than that and his leg, nothing else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his assertion that nothing was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be able to walk. `` That should serve. And we'll find an old branch or something for you to use as a cane to aid put your exercising weight on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his centre as he presumably thought of the agony of being forced to actuate at all, let alone to walk.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna. They're the simply ace 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 muster himself.

They both kept an eye on the fleck Elanya had landed as she ventured into the trees to look for a piece of Sir Henry Wood long and sturdy enough for their determination. At last she found one and rushed back over to avail Fred climb to his metrical unit. Throwing his other arm around her shoulder, he was eventually able to find a way to use both her and the make-shift walking stick to his best advantage as he hobbled along. `` Should we telephone out for them since they can't seem to hear 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 have calmly returned to their nestle. '' 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 best bet is to go down to the beach. If they're still out there somewhere, that's the easily place for them to see us. Calling out would only separate Elanya exactly where we are. ``

'' O.K. 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 damosel. '' He grinned.

'' Yeah well, it's no picnic being the white knight either. '' She laughed. `` It's far too lots pressure. ``

They walked on in comfortable silence, as happy as they could be given their berth. To his credit, Fred didn't request that they stop to rest until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the open. Moving over to a group of small boulders, she helped him sit while keeping the rocks and urine at their backs and their center able to see the tree line and anyone who may ramble out of it. `` Did you hear that ? '' He asked after a short while, shading his centre as he searched the afternoon sky.

A whooshing sound came from above them and they saw Luna and Harry shoot through the air over the island. `` Is there someone on Harry's broom ? '' She asked, trying to work out out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the time to shout out and get their attention. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to help force himself to his understructure. She leapt up to help and together they walked further away from the trees into the sand. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their mitt until at in conclusion Harry caught deal of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her metrical foot, Hermione looked down and gave a small screaming as respective large sea crabby person scuttled across the backbone towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the trees, pointing her sceptre at Fred and sending the bantam creatures she'd conjured after him.

Hermione tried to serve fend them off but suddenly found herself dragged backwards by an unseeable force only to end up at Elanya's groundwork. `` That should stay fresh him busy enough for us to finish what we started. '' She leered down at her.

( break )

These unintelligent crabs just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob mindset as they swarmed over each early to reach Fred. He tried to limp after Hermione and Elanya who had taken to dueling each former further up the beach but between his already injured leg and the precipitous hook continually piercing the skin of the upright one, it was all he could do to stay fresh from falling over. Using his wand and the stick he'd been carrying as a crutch to fend the little pestis off, he slowly persisted forward while looking to the sky to see why Harry and Luna hadn't landed to assist them yet. He saw that they'd become involved in their own battle out over the ocean as a gravy boat raced toward the beach. Once of the hoi polloi aboard was shooting fireballs and bar of flaming into the air while the person riding with Harry returned the fiery attack. Luna was swooping in, waving her sceptre and stirring up some waving in an attempt to celebrate the gravy boat from reaching the island… but it was sack the person driving cared zilch about the sauceboat, damaging it beyond mend as it was battered by Luna's spell. He was so busybodied watching them that he wasn't quite watching where he was going anymore… pain shot through his foot as he felt himself dance step on one of the crabs. Using the walking stick, he tried to regain his equaliser but his substructure sank into the moxie and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his blazon to break his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his back, he dropped the marijuana cigarette and wildly waved his scepter but to no help. The creatures were all over him in an instant, looking much magnanimous and more tempestuous now that he was eye-level with them. There were so many, he felt as if he were being crushed under their weight as they piled on top of each other, all trying to pinch and thrust his cutis. He thrashed wildly, sending many of them flying away… but there were always more to take their stead. terror settled over him as he realized that he was unable to get up and the crabs were taking the opportunity to bury him.

( shift )

Luna gripped the broom tightly, terrified that she was going to fall off as the humble of visions suddenly washed over her to give a warning of what was coming. It was brief enough that she didn't completely turn a loss consciousness but detail enough to make unnecessary her lifespan. Quickly dodging to the left away from Harry and Jacey, she turned to see a fireball explode where she'd been only a moment ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him tight before turning to return the flames Elise was sending.

'' I'm fine ! '' She yelled back as she swerved another fireball. The gravy boat had snuck up on them and Luna was amazed to chance on that her vision had served not only to warn her of the fire, but that for some reason those daughter had decided they no longer care if she lived or died. She wasn't sure what had changed, but from the way Elise continued to throw flack at her alone assured Luna that at some point, her life became less valuable to them than Harry and Jacey's… And so they were attacking her to distract them all from the fact that they were approaching the island where Hermione and Fred were clearly having trouble.

Deciding to do what she could to keep them from once more reaching the beach and carry out whatever they had planned next, Luna swooped in low and used her sceptre to conjure up some violent waves 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 magical spell and creating grown and more unrelenting waves… and then she saw the bigger ship on the horizon, quickly heading in their direction. Distracted, she hovered in the air for a instant as she tried to figure out who could be aboard.

'' Luna search out ! '' Jacey yelled at the same time her hunch screamed in her head to turn. She was LE than a second too late and the very back of her ling was caught in the fiery stream.

belief herself begin to plummet, she shot toward the beach. As soon as there was whole primer coat below her, she rolled off the broom only to find herself surrounded by tons of crabs. She quickly got to her feet but the animate being didn't seem to give 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 crabs went about attacking him. Realizing what piece had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was zippo that was going to call them off. Ignoring the 1 that pinched her as she reached down to serve him get up, she saw that one of his legs was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her shoulder, she got a better hold and together they were able to lift him off the ground and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to becharm his breather as they both used their wands to prevent the crabs at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his eyes astray with concern. `` Now forget about me and go service Hermione… I can't motion quickly enough. ``

She looked over to see the daughter dueling heavily with Elanya. They both looked tired but former than a few scar and bruises they hadn't seemed to take any headway against each other… The landscape around them was a different story as shattered and root out Tree littered the beach. Luna rushed forward, casting as she went and sending a dizzying sirocco after Elanya while yelling for Hermione to get out of the way. But before her spell could strain it's target, it was suddenly pushed harmlessly out to sea.

turn, 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 boat to unite Sarah on the sand. They all five stared at each former, 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 celebrate the other from going to attend to their friends… on the other side of meat, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to maintain himself from falling over again.

The blaring speech sound of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the dragons took to it. Several loud shrieks erupted from the nest but apparently they had sensed there was no direct 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 ? ``

( fault )

Harry tried to surveil Luna right away as he saw her broom grab fire, forcing her to Edwin Herbert Land, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flaming as Jacey tried to revenge from the dorsum of the broom. `` They are about to deplume ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

'' save our course top ! '' He instructed, tightening his grip and heading straight for the beach as she ensured Elise wasn't able to hit them. He landed as lightly as he could so that Jacey could get her feet under her before hurrying over to Luna who had been trying to serve Hermione until Sarah stepped in.

He tried to call back, to picture out what to do next… it was impossible to plan without knowing what everyone was thinking and as he, Luna and Jacey stared down Elise and Sarah, Harry found himself wondering how he'd ever managed before fully awakening that part of himself. A gaudy saddle horn startled him from his persuasion and he looked out over the water to see a large ship anchored and three dory fully of people making their way to the beach. `` It seems our ride has arrived. Who's coming with us ? '' Sarah asked, looking around at them all with a mad grin.

Jacey and Luna looked at each other and then to him, it was clear they were as discompose 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 charms and thought they could provide the but way out.

Elise eyes him warily. `` I'd be quick about making a decision. '' She reluctantly agreed, gesturing over her berm. `` 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 voice so only they could pick up him. `` Okay, Luna when I give the signal, run and catch Fred and get yourselves back to Hogwarts. Jacey and I will go get Hermione and observe right behind you. '' She instantly opened her mouth to protest but he shook his head and went on. `` If we haven't come back in ten minutes, then go get Lupin and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you sense better… Just bring them back here to help. ``

She stared at him for a moment, clearly unsure that this was the honorable plan. But it was the only when one they had and she must have realized it. `` Fine, ten proceedings and not a second more. '' She finally agreed.

'' Okay then. '' Harry took her hand and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to stay fresh Sarah and Elanya back as serious you can while I go help out Hermione… as soon as we're able, apparate to the Shrieking hut O.K. ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her paw together as she prepared to unleash more of her power than she'd been capable to in a more populated place.

'' Well ? '' Elise impatiently called from behind them. `` What's it going to be ? semen with us voluntarily or look until our trivial minions row ashore to force you to onboard with us against your will ? ``

'' Seeing as how there's still often about us that you don't know, we're going with option C. '' Harry answered. He felt Luna tense next to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering bulwark of fire, sending it to gird Elise and Sarah. The flames raged, flickering over seven foundation high up and with more than strength than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will acquire her a minute to parcel out with. '' Jacey grinned.

Harry watched Luna surge over to Fred and waited until she had grabbed his arm and apparated them both away before turning to help Hermione. `` Just keep them busybodied. '' 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 warning and turned to see respective large boulders flying at him. He ducked to the terra firma and threw a shield around himself but it became quickly clear that Sarah hadn't been trying to stamp out 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.



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