Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


A mother kangaroo stood absolutely still in the moonlit forest, watching her kid gaming in the bushes in front of her. The mother would gently pull the roo back every prison term he got too far away. She was watching him carefully when a loudly pop startled her. The joey hopped back over to his mother and jumped into her pouch. They hopped away quickly, not noticing the man who had just appeared a few m away.

The man swore under his breath as his face contorted. His rung facial expression was elongating and his black hair lightened to a chocolate-brown refinement. He stumbled around and kicked off his shoes as his human foot grew too declamatory for them. It was not only his infantry that were growing, but his integral body. The man was now six inches taller than he had been when he first Apparated into the forest. Finally, it stopped. The man now looked completely different and kind of strange in Muggle clothing that was far too small for him.

He opened his bag and pulled out a set of black wizard robe, changing into them quickly. He tossed the Muggle wear into the bag and set off at a brisk pace.

`` Bloody Muggle airplanes, '' he muttered to himself, `` Ministry ought to just permit international Flooing. ``

It was a very quiet night, with only the casual owl hooting in the distance. The moon was not good enough to provide enough light to illuminate the way, but the man did not need to make attention to himself by lighting his wand. He merely stumbled along, swearing every time he tripped over a rock or a tree root.

The tall man was not entirely sure how far he would get to walk to find the place he was looking for. In fact, the man he was going to claver did not even know he was coming. Nevertheless, he kept walking through the timberland, until he finally came to the edge.

A short aloofness away stood a rather large sign of the zodiac. It was not big enough to be considered a manse, but substantially larger than most houses. The man glanced at his watch before continuing towards the house.

`` Damn, '' he muttered as he noticed that his picket was still set for British time. He pulled out his verge and pointed it at his wrist joint. The script on the ticker swirled until coming to a arrest. It was nearly midnight.

There was one lone light on in the household. former than that, the place seemed either deserted or its occupants asleep. The man did not care if everyone was asleep ; he would merely wake them up. He picked up his pace as he crossed the pace and ascended the steps up to the front man door.

The man knocked three multiplication and stood waiting for person to let him in. A abruptly patch later, the door opened a crack. However, it did not come out that anyone had actually answered it.

`` Is you needing something, sir ? '' a screaky spokesperson asked.

The man looked down and saw a house elf peeking his head around the threshold. `` Why yes, '' the man replied, `` Is Lubar in ? ``

`` Master Lubar ? '' the elf asked, `` He is. ``

`` I need to speak to him, '' the man said.

`` ejaculate in, '' the elf replied, `` Is you wanting a potable ? ``

`` No, '' the man muttered as he entered the business firm, `` Just exhibit me to Lubar. ``

`` Yes, sir. This way. ``

The man followed the elf through the extravagant house. He always wondered how Lubar managed to afford everything. It 's not like he made much money at his job. There were statues, works of art, gold encrusted tables, oriental rugs, and the fanciest furniture in all of the rooms he passed.

The elf led him to a room with the threshold halfway subject. sparkle was streaming out of it, but the man could n't hear any vocalization. Lubar must be alone, he thought. That would be best anyway.

The man pushed past the elf and into the room without knocking. He did n't see the demand. Lubar was category. Sure, the man had n't seen him in long time, but he was kinsfolk nonetheless. Lubar was the man 's wife 's cousin, to be specific.

Lubar was sitting at his desk, perusing a book. His untidy brown hair was dangling over his boldness. He looked up when the man stepped into the room. He looked momentarily shocked, but regained his composure and stood up. Lubar was quite a bit forgetful than the man in the doorway and was wearing similar inglorious robes.

`` Jarrett, '' Lubar gestured for him to occur in, `` What an, unusual, surprise. ``

The man, Jarrett, walked in and took a arse in the red leather hot seat in front of the desk. Lubar resumed his side behind the desk.

`` To what do I owe the pleasure ? '' Lubar asked, folding his manus in front of him. `` It 's been a longsighted prison term, Jarrett. ``

`` I know, Ralph, it has indeed, '' Jarrett mused.

`` I have half a mind to drop you out of this sign of the zodiac after what your brother-in-law did to my brother, '' Lubar growled.

`` And I assure you that I understand, '' Jarrett replied, `` I do not O.K. of what my brother-in-law did. I have not spoken to the man since. ``

Lubar raised his eyebrow. `` Interesting. And has your wife been in striking with him ? ``

`` She has, '' Jarrett sighed, `` But that is just one of the many things we have different legal opinion on. I am well aware that you have no plans to forgive her brother, which is why I am here unbeknownst to her. I would like to put that issue behind us and rekindle our friendship, Lubar. ``

`` I will throw to think about that, '' Lubar said.

`` I understand, '' Jarrett said, `` That 's all I can ask you to do. ``

`` I am quite curious as to how you managed to get here. Is n't your entire ministry after you ? I pay attention to magical news all around the globe, you know. I have been following your story for the past tense class, '' Lubar changed the subject.

Jarrett smiled. It had been surprisingly well-situated to get to Australia with Muggle transferral. It took a patch and was rather nettlesome, but easy.

`` Yes, the Ministry is after me. However, I took the indecorum of using Muggle transportation system to make it here. I simply took some Polyjuice Potion, bought an aeroplane just the ticket, and now I 'm here. ``

`` Impressive, '' Lubar replied, `` You used the new 24 hour Polyjuice ? ``

`` Obviously, '' Jarrett smirked, `` Otherwise I would have turned back into myself in the middle of an airport. ``

`` True. Now, what can I do for you ? What could you possibly postulate that would cause you to consume Muggle Department of Transportation to get here ? Somehow, I do n't believe you would go through such utmost beat to rekindle a friendship that died a decade ago. ``

`` Do you know why the Ministry wants me ? ``

`` Something about dueling Harry potter ? '' Lubar smirked, `` That might be the stunned matter you have ever done. ``

`` That 's the gist of it, '' Jarrett muttered, `` But we had reasons for doing it. ``

`` We ? ``

`` Yes. Myself, my son, and one of my protagonist. ``

`` Ah, '' Lubar leaned back in his president, `` Do you manage to crystalize me about your ground ? ``

`` We want to link up the Deathly Hallows in rules of order to help our military mission to preserve the design of Lord Voldemort, '' Jarrett explained, `` Harry Potter knows the emplacement of all three of the Deathly Hallows and currently possesses two of them. Have you heard of the Hallows ? ``

`` Of grade I have, '' Lubar snapped, `` idea you, I thought it was just a nipper 's story. ``

`` I assure you, it 's not, '' Jarrett said, `` I myself saw the Invisibility Cloak. They exist and had something to do with Voldemort 's ruination. ``

`` Lord Voldemort, '' Lubar mused, `` I understand. I myself agree with his ideas about the wizarding world. Especially when it comes to half-breeds. ``

`` I was hoping you 'd say that. Now, we have been on the run for over a year. After our first unsuccessful effort at obtaining the Hallows, we chose to lay low for a while. ``

`` You know where all of the Hallows are ? You said Potter 's got them ? ``

`` Two of them, '' Jarrett corrected him, `` We thought we be intimate where all three were, but we were wrong about the elder Wand. Well, Potter could be lying to us. That 's entirely possible. But even if he does not currently have it in his possession, I am sure he knows where it is. The invisibility Cloak is currently in possession of Harry Potter 's halfway tiddler, Albus. The Resurrection I. F. Stone is residing in the forest next to Hogwarts, although I am not trusted where. ``

`` Interesting, '' Lubar mused, `` But what do you need me to do ? ``

`` I 'm getting to that. Recently, my son and I came up with a design to obtain the Invisibility Cloak. My son was to lure Albus Potter out of school by capturing his cousin. To make a retentive fib short, it ended in a duel between my son and Harry Potter. ceramist captured him and he now resides in Azkaban, '' Jarrett seethed.

`` That sounds like an absolutely abysmal programme. Did you actually believe thrower 's kid would n't tell him his first cousin was captured ? ``

`` We kind of hoped so- ''

`` Shut up. The dot is, that was a horrible plan, and now your son is in prison house. ``

`` Yes, '' Jarrett sighed, `` And I was kind of hoping you could help get him out. ``

Lubar stared at him and then smirked. `` Me ? Help get your son out of prison ? How in the name of Merlin do you suppose I 'll be able to do that ? ``

`` wellspring, you 're a highschool ranking Ministry official, you must have a lot of influence in these kinds of affair, '' Jarrett stammered.

`` I am a eminent ranking Ministry official in Commonwealth of Australia, not Britain, '' Lubar laughed, `` Why do you think I have any influence over there ? ``

`` But do n't you keep in middleman with U.K. 's section for the Regulation and control of Magical Creatures ? '' Jarrett asked.

Lubar laughed. `` I do not contact Britain 's Department for the rule and control of Magical tool. My belief are vastly different from those in Britain. I would not desire to associate myself with the blokes there. Plus, my name is mud with the British section for the Regulation and control condition of Magical beast. ``

Jarrett looked curiously at Lubar. `` That is hard to believe. What did you possibly do to take a leak them dislike you ? ``

`` That, is a very long story, '' Lubar replied, `` The old head of my section was a very liberal man. He sympathized with werewolves and disliked any sort of strict legislation dealing with them. His reason for this was because his own son is a werewolf. ``

`` Really ? ``

`` Yes. Anyway, he was fired after he broke one of the werewolf police. Then I became head of the department and passed more law. He hated me. He moved his category to United Kingdom, where he got a job in loup-garou Support service of process. Turns out, he was planning on moving anyway, even before he got fired. He wanted his werewolf kid to attend school. The headmaster of the Aboriginal Australian schooling of sorcery obviously did not let him attend. The Hogwarts headmaster did. As far as I know, he 's there now. Once there, he made for sure everyone in his section knew my epithet and what I believed. They do not speak kindly of me. ``

Jarrett rubbed his chin. `` Interesting. So there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts ? Quinton never told me anything about that. ``

`` He probably does n't know, '' Lubar smirked, `` I tend to doubt that the werewolf would announce it to the whole school. ``

`` Do you know the werewolf 's public figure ? '' Jarrett asked.

`` Do n't remember his first name. Last gens 's Eckerton. ``

Jarrett thought for a moment and then his center popped out of his promontory. `` Eckerton ? ! Quinton 's mentioned that kid. He 's one of the ones we dueled with last class ! He 's friends with Potter 's kid. ``

`` Really ? '' Lubar smirked, `` How interesting. ``

`` Yes, extremely interesting, '' Jarrett rolled his middle, `` potter 's kid befriended a werewolf. Thrilling, really. Now, can you help get Quinton out of Azkaban or not. ``

`` talk like that and I wo n't help you, '' Lubar muttered.

Jarrett 's eyes lit up. `` So you can assist ? ``

`` Possibly, '' Lubar said, `` But I could most certainly help you get the Hallows. ``

`` And how would you do that ? ``

`` First, I give you advice, '' Lubar began, `` You 're going about this all wrong. Your first precedency should birth been the Resurrection Stone, not that Invisibility Cloak. Yes, the Stone will be difficult to get hold, but cipher currently owns it. It 's sitting in the Bush. You 've got to search that Dubya and get that pit. Then, you use the Stone. ``

`` Use it ? ``

`` Yes, use it ! '' Lubar shouted, `` Honestly, I do n't know what my cousin-german sees in you. But anyway, use it to spill to Voldemort ! ``

`` Oh, right. ``

`` Then, you ask Voldemort what happened to the Elder Wand ! '' Lubar continued, `` That thing is the best Hallow. The Cloak is the to the lowest degree useful. Anyone can induce themselves unseeable with a disillusionment appealingness. You 've got to get that wand and I. F. Stone first. ``

`` Oh, I 'll get looking for the Stone, '' Jarrett muttered.

`` Good, '' Lubar replied, `` And I 'll go to United Kingdom and avail you. ``

`` Seriously ? ``

`` Yes. I 'll make sure enough you do it properly. And I can check up on that lycanthrope kid, '' Lubar sneered.

`` What about the Ministry ? I thought they hated you. ``

`` They do, '' Lubar said, `` But I can come up with a good reason to be at Hogwarts this yr. ``

`` What might that be ? ``

`` I can not explain in detail. There is an effect happening at Hogwarts this class. scholarly person from Australia are participating. I have reasons to be there. ``

`` Shall I wait for you to seek for the Oliver Stone ? ``

`` Yes, '' Lubar said, `` I 'll make sure you do n't shaft it up. And perhaps, while I 'm there, we can put to work out some way to expose your idiot son out of Azkaban. ``

`` Thanks, '' Jarrett muttered.

`` Just remember, you owe me for this. ''


A/N : I love it when editing takes less time than I thought ! Big thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, who also named this story.

This story is more lace with In Moonlight 's phantasm than my early Albus tarradiddle have been. People who have already read IMS will recognise this now that they 've read the prologue. I suggest anyone who has n't read IMS read it, although you 'll still be able to understand this story if you don't.

I may be switching my update years to Wednesdays because I 'm quite in use on Th. It 'll depend on how the semester goes.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



Albus Severus thrower awoke to a high pitched screeching. He sat up quickly in bed and listened. It was coming from downstairs and sounded exactly like his little sister, Lily. He groaned and got out of bed. It would be superfluous for him to try and go back to sleep.

Lily had been impossible to dish out with ever since Albus returned home from Hogwarts. She was incredibly excited about the fact that she was going to go to Hogwarts in the fall. Therefore, Lily had been constantly asking Albus about Hogwarts and the questions were usually ones Albus did not know the answer to or did not need to do.

Albus quickly changed his clothes and ran downstairs. It was a mystery as to what Lily was shrieking about now. His mum probably told her some new small-arm of information about Hogwarts.

`` Al ! '' Lily shoved a piece of lambskin in Albus 's fount, `` It came ! It came ! My Hogwarts letter came ! ``

So that was what the shrieking was about, Albus thought. Lily had been waiting for that letter all summer. Every sunup she 'd watch out the window waiting for the post owl to arrive.

`` felicitation, Lily, '' Albus grinned at her and continued his walkway down to the kitchen. Lily ran ahead of him and was literally dancing around the elbow room by the fourth dimension Albus arrived.

`` Lily ! '' James shouted, `` One does not shriek and trip the light fantastic toe like a lunatic when one receives their Hogwarts letter. ``

`` Oh, really, James IV ? '' Ginny smirked at him, `` Were n't you the one to stand on top of the table and do some form of dance ? ``

James blushed. `` Er, no. ``

`` Oh, do n't be ashamed, James, '' Albus grinned as he sat down adjacent to his pal, `` At to the lowest degree you did n't pipe up like a female child. ``

`` Yeah, that was you, '' James laughed.

`` I did not ! '' Albus shouted, `` I acted perfectly normal ! ``

`` pattern for a girl, '' James replied.

`` stopover it, James, '' Ginny scolded as she set a bowl of oatmeal and a few envelopes in front man of Albus, `` You got some post as well, Al. ``

Albus picked up the mess of alphabetic character and opened the top one. It was the usual book list as well as his Hogsmeade permission slip-up. `` Here, Mum, '' he handed her the slip, `` You 'll have got to sign that. ``

Ginny took the parchment. `` I ca n't believe you 're a thirdly class, Al. You 're growing up so fast. ``

`` Mum ! '' Albus groaned.

`` I ca n't believe it either, '' James sighed, `` Ickle Al is getting so big ! ``

`` James ! '' Albus smacked him.

`` Mum, Al hit me ! '' James shouted.

`` Behave yourselves, boys, '' Ginny said without looking at them.

Albus opened the other envelope. It was from matte.

beloved Albus,

My parents said you could come visit
on the 16th for a few day. They 're
going to postulate us to Diagon Alley too.
Let me know if you can occur !

Your friend,
mat

`` Mum ! '' Albus shouted, `` Can I go to flatness 's house on the 16th ? ``

Ginny read the missive over Albus 's shoulder. `` Sure. We 'll touch you in Diagon bowling alley and get William James and Lily 's stuff then. ``

Albus grinned. He was very stir about going to lusterlessness 's house. He had never been there. He hoped that John the Divine and Kaden would be able to go as well. They had n't seen each other in about a calendar month, when Albus and Rose had had their natal day party.

`` Thanks, Mum. ``

`` Mum ! '' Lily whined, `` I wanted to go to Diagon skittle alley today ! ``

`` Sorry, Lily, '' Ginny replied, `` I 'd rather get everyone 's supplying at once. ``

`` I do n't need to hold off ! ``

`` Lily, you have to look, '' Ginny sighed.

Albus turned to James and they smirked at each former. Lily still had n't grown out of her whiny form. It got rather annoying. Albus hoped that she would n't be like that at Hogwarts.

******

The side by side few days passed very slowly. Albus was anxious to get away from Lily. She asked him no less than fifty time how the sorting was done and Albus replied with 50'I ca n't tell yous'.

Eventually the sixteenth part arrived and Albus sat in the drawing room waiting for Matt and his parents to show up. Kaden was with him. He had arrived a few time of day earlier and they had spent their sentence trying to stay away from Lily.

`` You know, Kaden, you were as irritating as Lily a year ago, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Was not, '' Kaden replied, `` And I 've matured. ``

`` Yeah, sure, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

The two son looked up when they heard a brassy scissure. flatness 's full family had Apparated into the draftsmanship way. Ginny walked into the room and greeted matt 's parents.

`` matt ! '' Albus grinned, `` I am so glad to see you. I ca n't wait to get away from Lily. ``

`` Oh, Al, be decent, '' Ginny sighed.

`` What ? She 's irritating, '' Albus shrugged, `` Bye, Mum. ``

`` Goodbye, Al, I 'll see you in a few daytime, '' she gave Albus a hug.

`` All right, '' Mr. Eckerton said, `` Albus, you can Apparate with Amy. Kaden, you can Apparate with my wife. ``

Albus nodded and stepped over to Amy. She wrapped him in a hug and the two of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the middle of a prominent field of view. There was a log house in the distance.

`` This does n't look like a firm, '' Kaden announced as he stepped away from Matt 's mum.

`` It 's not, '' matte said as he pointed to the log mansion, `` That 's my household. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden replied as they started towards the house, `` Why did n't we just Apparate into it ? ``

`` My parents put anti-Apparition wards on the menage, '' flatness explained.

`` Why ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I do n't want to get into it, '' Matt muttered.

Kaden groaned. `` I thought you were done keeping secrets from me. ``

`` There are some matter I do n't severalise anyone, Kaden, '' lustrelessness sighed.

Albus smirked and shook his read/write head. Some things never change. Kaden still did n't know how to hold on his mouth shut.

Matt 's house was the lone one in the domain. Albus could n't see any other edifice besides a shed behind the house. There were area surrounding the house and a low fence surrounding the property. Beyond the fence was farmland.

Matt 's dad unlocked the room access and Albus followed him inside. He stopped in the entry and looked around. The blank space was about as dissimilar as a theatre could be from Grimmauld Place. It was heart-to-heart and aired and decorated in a modern yet rustic way. From the doorway, Albus could see the kitchen straight ahead, the dining room next to it, and the livelihood room next to the door. On the other side of the door was a set of stair leading upstairs. Albus continued walking into the living room and saw a corridor next to the kitchen that lead to a few more rooms. Albus liked it instantly. It had a homey tone to it like the Burrow did. Except it was very much cleaner. lusterlessness had said his mum was kind of a neat nut, but Albus was n't expecting it to be this neat.

`` Great sign, lustrelessness, '' Albus grinned.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` But it 's too neat. We 're going to have to vary that. ``

`` My mum likes it neat, '' lustrelessness said, `` She 'll make you cleanse up whatever you mess up. ``

`` I 'll go get John now, '' Mr. Eckerton announced, `` You can issue forth, matt. I 'll be able-bodied to Apparate both of you. ``

`` Ok. I 'll be redress back, Albus, '' Matt said and left the sign with his dad.

`` You can just look in the living room, '' Mrs. Eckerton gestured for Albus and Kaden to sprain to their left.

Albus nodded and sat down on one of the lounge. It was quite comfortable. Kaden sat down following to him and put his foundation up on the deep brown table, earning a stern gaze from Mrs Eckerton. Kaden sheepishly removed his substructure from the table.

Amy sat down on a chairperson and pulled a record off the table. She opened it and began reading. It was some sort of potions book.

Kaden tilted his head and show the championship. `` Do you like potions ? '' he asked.

`` Yeah, '' Amy replied, `` I 'm studying to be a healer. ``

`` That 's great ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` I like potions too. Albus thinks I 'm insane. Well, so do flatness and John. ``

`` There are n't many people who appreciate brewing, '' Amy replied, `` But I 'm happy you like it. ``

`` Me, too, '' Kaden said.

Amy set her book down. `` So, Albus, how has your summer been ? ``

`` Good, '' Albus said, `` Well, Lily is driving me mad because she got her Hogwarts alphabetic character the early day. ``

`` I still think when I got my letter to the Australian School of Sorcery- ''

`` The what ? '' Kaden asked.

`` The Australian School of black art, '' Amy repeated, `` The school of deception in Australia. I went there for three yr. Then we moved here. ``

`` You lived in Commonwealth of Australia ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` Er, yeah, '' Amy looked at him strangely, `` You did n't recognise that ? ``

`` Nope. lusterlessness never told me, '' Kaden turned to Albus, `` Did he tell you ? ``

`` Yeah, my get-go year, '' Albus replied, `` I never really noticed that he did n't tell you. ``

`` fountainhead, he did n't, '' Kaden muttered, `` But it would explain the funny accent he 's got. ``

Albus stifled his laugh. `` Er, yeah. ``

The three of them sat quietly for another few minute. Kaden began to laughter and it became louder and louder until Albus turned to look at him.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` The Australian shoal of necromancy, '' Kaden laughed, `` A, S, S. Ass ! ``

Albus groaned. Leave it to Kaden to figure that out.

Amy laughed. `` You know, that 's what Teddy said when he first heard about it. ``

The movement room access opened and Matt and John ran inside followed by Mr. Eckerton. lavatory paused in the entree and looked around.

`` Whoa, '' he grinned, `` This theater is bloody vivid ! ``

`` Thanks, '' Matt said and the two of them entered the animation room. `` What are you three laughing at ? ``

`` My old school, '' Amy smirked, `` Kaden figured out its acronym. ``

`` Oh, ASS, '' matt laughed, `` Yeah, I laughed about that for days when I figured it out. ``

`` Well, I 've got to get to work, '' Amy stood up, `` I 'll try and stop by for dinner party sometime this week. ``

`` Bye, Amy, '' Mr. Eckerton gave her a hug.

`` Bye, Dad. ``

`` So, I 'll show you the upstairs, '' Matt said after Amy left.

Albus grabbed his bag and followed Matt upstairs. lavatory and Kaden thundered behind them. Once they reached the top, Matt led them to the door on the left wing along the binding bulwark.

`` This is my room, '' mat announced as they entered.

Albus stepped inside and looked around. The carpeting was blue and the walls were white. It was messier than the rest of the house, but nowhere near as messy as James 's room. There was a Chudley carom bed cover on the bed and multiple posters on the wall.

`` Nice bed, '' St. John smirked, `` Nice to see the carom can still sell merchandise. If only they devoted that effort to their playing .... ''

`` Shut it, John, '' mat replied, `` The carom have been playing better this season. ``

`` Oh, yeah, they did get three goals in their biz against Puddlemere, '' privy said, `` Too bad Puddlemere had a hundred times that many finish. ``

matt groaned. `` Come on, I 'll record you the early rooms. ``

Albus followed flatness out of the elbow room and down the corridor. The future threshold was a john and the one after that was Amy 's room. The last door was alongside a different wall and Matt gestured for them to step inside.

`` This is the library, '' matte announced, `` We 'll be sleeping here. ``

`` auditory sensation like rose wine 's dream cum true, '' John laughed.

The program library was twice the size of matt 's room. Bookshelves covered all the walls and there were a few desks sitting in the middle of the way. A sloughy looking couch was sitting below one of the windows and there were a few armchairs in various places. There were also four crib in the middle, but Albus doubted they were normally there.

Albus tossed his bag down on a cot as toilet and Kaden did the Same. Kaden started wandering around the room and looking at the various books.

`` I do n't think I 've ever been in a house with this many books, '' Kaden said.

`` There 's even more in Dad 's study. ``

`` You should see Rose 's star sign, '' Albus commented.

`` You 've got a lot of volume about wizardly brute, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, well, that 's what Dad 's into. ``

`` Especially werewolves, '' Kaden went on, `` There 's a whole row of them. ``

`` Yeah, you can probably think why, '' Matt mumbled.

`` So, '' Albus changed the subject, `` How was your trip-up to New House of York ? ``

The discomfort that had been on Matt 's face moments before disappeared. `` It was bright ! We had so a lot fun. ``

`` And how was the airplane ? '' John asked eagerly.

lustrelessness laughed. `` Just like every early one I 've been on. ``

`` Anything else new with anyone ? '' Albus asked.

`` Bethany thinks she 's a witch, '' Kaden announced, `` She found a stick outside and has been pretending to cast magic spell. ``

`` Bet your grandpa loved that, '' Albus laughed.

`` He turned a pin-up tad of purple, '' Kaden laughed.

`` I 'd pay to see that, '' John replied.

Albus and Kaden laughed. `` I would n't evoke being anywhere near my Uncle Vernon when he turns purple, '' Albus put in.

`` Did I tell you that my dad 's getting a advancement ? '' Matt asked.

Albus turned to him. `` Nope. What kind of promotion ? ``

`` The head of the Department of the regulation and Control of Magical Creatures is retiring at the end of the year, '' mat explained, `` And he 's recommending my dad for the stead. It 's not final, but it 'll most belike happen. ``

`` That old lad is finally retiring ? '' Albus asked, `` He 's been there for 10. ``

`` Yeah. Dad was n't surely he wanted the forwarding, but after thinking about it, he decided to ingest it if it 's offered to him, '' Matt continued.

`` Why would n't he want it ? '' John asked.

`` fountainhead, that 's what he did in Australia. And he hated it towards the end. But he thinks it 'll be better up here. ``

`` From what you 've told us, everything is better up here, '' Albus said.

`` What does your dad do now ? '' Kaden asked.

`` He works in lycanthrope accompaniment services. ``

Kaden nodded. `` You know, that is variety of funny, considering .... ''

Matt rolled his center. `` Yeah, I know. The general world did n't really think it was that funny when we were living in Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` And that 's why you moved ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Pretty a lot, yeah, '' lusterlessness said quietly, `` But I like Hogwarts, so I do n't really care that we had to move. ``

`` How about you, Albus ? '' John the Divine asked, `` Anything charge happening in the most famous wizarding fellowship ? ``

Albus rolled his eyes. If anyone besides his friends referred to his family line that way, he probably would have hexed them.

`` Actually, '' Albus began, surprised that he had momentarily forgotten about it, `` I do accept some interesting news about the Hogwarts staff. ``

`` What is it ? '' can asked eagerly, `` Is Slughorn finally retiring for good ? ``

`` No, '' Albus laughed, `` I do n't think that will ever happen. ``

`` Then what is it ? '' mat asked.

`` My dad 's not teaching Defense this year, '' Albus answered. Harry had broken the news program to Albus, James, and Lily a few weeks ago. Albus was disappointed, but not really surprised. He had been surprised that Harry had stayed for more than a year.

Matt, John, and Kaden gaped at him. `` What ? '' John asked, `` Are you sober ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded.

`` Why ? '' lusterlessness asked, `` He 's a brilliant teacher. ''

`` He thinks he needs to focalise more on his Auror job, '' Albus explained, `` He wants to fully devote his time to finding Willinson and Washburn. ``

`` Oh, well, that makes good sense, '' Matt replied.

`` Who 's replacing him ? '' John asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` Dad did n't tell me. He said he wants me to train my own impression of the teacher. ``

`` I wonder if we 'll ever have the demand same staff for two geezerhood in a row, '' John the Divine commented, `` I mean, first year they were all new to us. Last year we got Cedonia. And this year we 've got some new Defense teacher. ``

`` I just hope whoever the new teacher is, that they 're nice, '' flatness said, `` So what do you lot want to do ? We 've got a few hours until dinner. ``

`` Hmm, '' Albus mused, `` Want to play Quidditch ? That field would be excellent for it. ``

mat groaned. `` That 's the one thing we ca n't do. The Muggle farmer is often out tending to his fields and he 'd see us. ``

`` I 've got an idea, '' Kaden grinned mischievously and dug around in his bag. He pulled out a football game. `` Let 's swordplay football. ``

The boys decided it was as good an idea as any and they ran downstairs. Albus had limited experience with football. He had watched a couple matches and played it a few metre, but that was it. He did n't think John had ever played and he was n't sure about matt. privy was skeptical about the fun of football, but he was willing to give it a try.

`` Where are you boys going ? '' Mrs. Eckerton shouted from the kitchen as they ran to the backbone door.

`` We 're going to play football, '' Matt said as he pulled the door open.

`` Be careful ! '' Mrs. Eckerton replied.

Albus followed Matt down the deck stairs and into the field. He stood future to Matt and John and all three of them turned to Kaden, who had set the orchis on the undercoat and had one foot on it.

`` Have any of you played football before ? '' Kaden asked.

`` A few fourth dimension, '' Albus answered.

`` Nope, '' John said.

`` When I was youthful, I played a bit, '' lusterlessness replied, `` But I was never any good. ``

Kaden sighed. `` All rightfield. Why do n't we just play two on two. lav and I versus Albus and lustrelessness. ``

The early three male child nodded. Kaden pointed out two different trees that would function as stopgap end. He next explained the rules of the biz and they began playing.

Albus found the concept very standardized to that of his pursuer position in Quidditch, only he could n't use his hands. That was very odd. He had difficulty keeping the ball near his human foot and even more trouble aiming it to Matt. Half the time Kaden would slip it and he would n't even get a opportunity to pass it.

whoremonger was hardly any dear than Albus. He never managed to give up the nut where he aimed it, but Kaden 's superior skill seemed to remunerate for King John 's lack of skill. The two of them ( well, Kaden ) had scored more goals than Albus and Matt.

lusterlessness seemed to be able to aim the ballock, but he wound up tripping over it a lot. He did manage to hit a few end, though.

All in all, Albus thought it was variety of fun. It was n't something he desired to be on an official team of, but it was fun to trifle informally. Not nearly as wind up as Quidditch, though.

`` John ! '' Albus shouted as John picked up the musket ball and took off across the field of operation, `` You ca n't touch the globe ! ``

`` I 'm turning the game into Quidditch-football ! '' bathroom shouted and threw the ball at the goal, `` See, we 've got another point now ! ``

Kaden groaned and kicked the ball back into looseness. `` That 's cheating, John ! And we 're winning, so we do n't postulate to chicane ! ``

`` I do n't care ! '' whoremonger grinned and picked the chunk up again.

Kaden tackled John and tried to writhe the lump out of his arms. John tried to escape, but Kaden was holding onto his leg.

`` Now it 's Quidditch-football-wrestling, '' Albus said to flatness as the two of them walked towards their wrestling friends.

`` Albus ! Help ! Your cousin-german is Muggle dueling with me ! ``

`` well, we are playing a Muggle sport, John, '' Albus smirked and yanked the football out of his hands.

`` Hey ! '' Kaden shouted and grabbed Albus 's leg, `` Give that back ! ``

Albus stumbled and fell onto the land. He held the testicle out of Kaden 's stretch and Kaden tackled him. whoremaster, now detached of Kaden 's ire, grabbed mat 's leg and pulled him into the mix.

`` Hey ! '' matte shouted, `` I did n't study the football game ! ``

`` Does n't weigh, '' Saint John the Apostle grinned, `` We 're not going to let you endure there while we 're Muggle dueling each early. ``

`` Got it ! '' Kaden shouted a few bit later. He held the football up over his head. `` And I declare John and I the winner ! ``

Albus stood up and shook his head. Saint John the Apostle and Matt stood up after him. John looked quite exulting at the win, even though he had n't really contributed to it.

`` congratulation, '' mat smirked, `` You beat a cumbersome wizard and a Chaser at football. ``

`` Any win is a good win, '' Kaden grinned.

`` Boys ! '' Mrs Eckerton shouted from the window, `` Dinner is make ! ``

Albus grinned as he walked towards the home. As much as he enjoyed his own theatre, it was fun to spend a few days with lustrelessness and his other acquaintance. Plus, the missy were n't there. They had never really had time away from Rose and Amanda and it was kind of fun. Not that he did n't enjoy their troupe, there were just things they could n't really do around Rose and Amanda. Like turn a football game lucifer into a wrestling match, for example.

`` What did you boys do ? '' Mrs. Eckerton exclaimed as they entered the sign of the zodiac, `` You 're nasty ! I want you all to go shower before you eat ! ``

`` Just like place, '' Kaden commented, `` You 're a lot like my mum. ``

`` Well, I 'll fill that as a compliment, '' Mrs. Eckerton smiled.



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks so much to everyone for reading and for your terrific reviews ! You make my day when you leave followup ! Also, I will be updating on Wed from now on, they 're just easier this semester.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


dinner with Matt 's parents was interesting. Mealtimes at Albus 's theater were always disorderly and never really planned in gravid item. It seemed like one of his parents was always coming or going. Then there was the fact that at least one of his cousin or Teddy always seemed to be showing up partway through the meal. But Albus did n't really mind. He variety of liked the chaos that was his family.

Mealtimes at Matt 's sign of the zodiac, on the other script, seemed more dinner gown and planned. His mum and house elf, Ellie, cooked a too-generous gap and served it on fancy looker than Albus 's phratry had. And lusterlessness did n't have any congenator to randomly drop in. Albus enjoyed it, though. The formality of it did n't unsettle Kaden in the to the lowest degree and he dominated the conversation, which centered around Hogwarts, Quidditch, and football.

The son spent the evening in the den playacting stave after bout of Exploding Snap. Since Rose was n't there, they all had a fortune of winning. lustrelessness 's parents joined in for a few rounds and once they left, Albus and his friends talked about the upcoming school year. John and Kaden agreed that they needed to commit a few marauderesque pranks, but Albus and Matt were a bit reluctant. The job of school pranksters was currently held by Saint James and his friends and Albus really did n't want everyone to think he was a just like his brother.

Eventually, Mrs Eckerton returned to the room and told them they needed to get to bed. Albus followed Matt up the stair and into the library. They all changed into pajamas, but they did n't go to bed. Their conversations continued until Mrs. Eckerton knocked on the room access and told them they had to go to bed.

`` Albus ? '' mat whispered a few minutes later, `` Are you awake ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus whispered back.

`` I 'm really sword lily you came, '' flatness replied.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` You three are the first admirer I 've ever had over here, '' mat said quietly, `` I never really thought it would ever take place. ``

Albus really did n't know what to say to that. He knew matt had had a lonely childhood until going to Hogwarts, but the fact that he had never had champion over to his house before never crossed his head.

`` well, I 'll definitely want to fare back, '' Albus decided to say.

`` Thanks, '' mat said, `` Well, good Nox. ``

`` 'Night. ``

Albus fell asleep quickly to the muffled sound of Kaden 's stertor. But what seemed like a short piece later, he awoke again to the sound of soul 's whispering.

`` Kaden, '' someone whispered, `` Kaden ! ``

`` Wh-what is it ? '' Kaden yawned.

`` Are you athirst ? '' Albus recognized john 's voice.

`` Erm, a slight, I guess, '' Kaden replied.

`` Want to go find some intellectual nourishment ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Sure. ``

Albus listened as John and Kaden got up from their fingerstall and crept out of the room. There was the auditory sensation of footsteps on the steps, and then quiet.

Albus leaned over his cot and poked flatness. `` Matt ! '' he whispered, `` Get up ! ``

matt rolled over and Albus groaned. It was always so difficult to wake him up. `` flatness ! '' Albus shouted a slight louder.

flatness rolled over again and mumbled something incoherent. Albus poked him a little harder and he finally opened his eyes.

`` What ? '' he asked.

`` John the Evangelist and Kaden went to get a snack, '' Albus told him. Albus did n't know what kind of snack the two of them were going to get, but he had a feeling they would n't make it simple. John and Kaden were known to fall up with some pretty mad idea when they were together, especially when they did n't induce Albus or flatness to countercheck them.

`` All rightfield, '' lusterlessness groaned and got out of his cot, `` Let 's go. ``

Albus got up and the two of them quietly left the way and went down to the kitchen. The Light Within was on, but Albus could n't hear anything going on. That could either be a good sign or a bad sign.

When the kitchen came into view, Albus saw John and Kaden rummaging around in the refrigerator.

`` We could combine this with that, '' Kaden was saying.

`` That is disgusting, '' John commented, `` But brilliant. ``

bathroom and Kaden emerged from the refrigerator carrying various containers. They set them down on the counter and then turned around.

`` Oh, hey Albus and Matt ! '' John grinned, `` Want any of our midnight snack ? ``

`` Depends on what it is, '' Albus smiled wryly and sat down on one of the counter stools, `` If you think something is both disgusting and brilliant, I 'll bet it 's really disgusting. ``

`` Oh, come on, Albus, '' Kaden grinned, `` Mashed tater and hot chocolate patty would be a upright combination. ``

`` Oh, awful ! '' mat grimaced and sat down future to Albus.

`` It 's only nasty if you forget the cetchup, '' Saint John replied.

Even the idea of a compounding like that made Albus want to cast. It sounded like some sort of new Bertie Bott 's flavor.

`` No thanks, '' Albus said.

`` Your loss, '' Kaden shrugged and opened the container of potatoes.

`` So, if you 're not down here to eat our delightful nutrient, what are you here for ? '' John asked as he dumped the patty into the potatoes.

`` To oversee you, '' Matt replied, `` I ca n't let the two of you cook unsupervised in my kitchen. ``

`` Oh, relax, '' whoremaster grinned.

Albus watched as Kaden stirred the potato and cake combination. It actually did n't bet that bad. Almost like some sort of strange pudding. Albus was sure the ketchup would negate any sort of potential edibility, though.

`` Hey, what 's this thing ? '' can gestured to a Negroid box that was attached to the arse of the cupboards along the rampart. He pushed a few buttons and the whole thing lit up inside and started whirring.

Albus stared at it. He vaguely remembered seeing something like it at some of his cousin-german'houses, but he could n't ever recollect using it.

`` It 's a microwave, '' Matt jumped off his crapper and pushed a button on it. It stopped whirring and turned darkness again. `` And you ca n't turn it on when it 's discharge. ``

John stared at it. `` What 's it do ? What 's the detail ? ``

`` It cooks solid food, '' Matt explained, `` degraded than an oven. ``

`` Oh, '' John Lackland shrugged and picked up a crotch that was sitting on the parry. He put it in the microwave and went to move around it on.

Matt grabbed his arm. `` You ca n't put alloy in it ! It 'll break ! ``

Albus smirked. And John said he did n't need supervision. He definitely did, especially since there were Muggle contraption everywhere.

`` wellspring that 's poor fish, '' John replied and took the fork out.

Matt shrugged. `` It 's Muggle technology. ``

`` Why 's it in here then ? '' John asked.

`` Came with the family. And my mum likes Muggle applied science for cooking. ``

`` Oh, '' John said and turned to Kaden, who had begun pouring ketchup in the intermixture, `` Let 's put the whole matter in the microwave oven ! ``

matte groaned and turned to Albus. `` This wo n't flex out honest. ``

Albus laughed. `` Probably not. But Kaden 's Muggle born, so I 'm pretty sure he knows how to exploit the microwave. ``

`` Good full point, '' Matt said, `` John ! Let Kaden do the microwaving. ``

`` Aw, '' John sighed, `` It looks fun. ``

Kaden took the trough and put it in the microwave. He turned it on and Albus watched as the arena turned around and around on the inside plate. It was rather clever, he thought. Almost like illusion. It seemed like a legerdemain box that cooked food in record time.

A minute or so later, the microwave beeped, which caused John the Evangelist to jump. `` Bloody underworld ! '' he shouted, `` What was that ? ``

`` It means it 's done, '' Kaden laughed and took the bowl out, `` Who wants to try it ? ``

`` Me ! '' John shouted and grabbed a few spoon off the parry.

`` No way, '' Albus shook his psyche. The mixture in the roll was the eubstance of pud, but was a unusual crimson brown color that was absolutely disgusting looking.

`` Me either, '' lustrelessness said, `` Just the smelling of that grosses me out. ``

John Lackland took a whiff and grinned. `` Smells good ! ``

`` Oh, gross ! '' Matt covered his mouth.

`` You look a bit green, '' Albus said to Matt.

`` goodness thing he 's not having any, '' Kaden took a huge spoonful and stuffed it in his mouth.

Albus watched as Kaden swallowed the food. He was actually smiling when he had finished. matt really looked like he was going to vomit after watching Kaden eat it.

`` Delicious ! '' Kaden grinned.

`` Kaden, that is the most disgusting thing I have ever seen you eat, '' Albus announced.

John tried it next and pronounced it Delicious as well. Albus and mat just stared at each early and tried not to take in as John and Kaden polished off the repose of the concoction.

`` Are you done yet ? '' lustrelessness asked, `` The smelling of it is really getting to me. ``

`` Almost, '' John said.

`` Done, '' Kaden replied.

`` You 'd break wash the sports stadium out, '' matt said.

Kaden nodded and began to launder the dishes. John returned to the refrigerator and started rummaging around again.

`` You 're not still hungry, are you ? '' Albus asked.

`` Not really, '' John shrugged, `` Just looking. ''

He closed the icebox and went back over to the microwave. He stuck something in it, pushed a few buttons, and it lit up and started whirring again.

`` What did you put in there ? '' lustrelessness asked suspiciously.

`` Er, '' John stammered, `` Well, I just kind of wanted something else to eat- ''

`` I thought you were n't hungry, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't, but then I got an idea and I thought I 'd earn an egg- ''

`` AN EGG ? ! '' lusterlessness shouted as he jumped up, `` Did you put an egg in the microwave ? ``

`` Er, yes, '' toilet said, `` Why ? ``

`` Because eggs- ''

Matt never got to cease his sentence. A tacky pop came from the microwave before he could continue. He quickly turned the thing off and glared at John. John was grinning and looking at the microwave.

`` Explode in microwaves, '' Matt finished.

`` Oh, er, sorry, '' John Lackland said, trying not to laugh.

`` That 's glorious ! '' Kaden grinned and opened the microwave, `` I 've always wanted to try that ! ``

Albus stood behind mat and looked into the microwave oven. The inside was covered in egg egg yolk, white, and case. It was a nail mess, yet kind of funny at the like time.

flatness groaned, `` I ca n't believe you did that. Well, ok, I can. I told you not to tinge the microwave. ``

`` Sorry, '' John shrugged, `` I 'll strip it up. ``

`` strip what up ? ''

Albus turned around and saw Matt 's parents standing in the entrance to the kitchen. Both of them looked half asleep.

`` lav decided to put an egg in the microwave oven, '' Matt explained.

Mr. Eckerton burst out laughing and his married woman glared at him. `` I did the same matter when we first moved here, '' Mr. Eckerton grinned.

`` See ? '' bathroom said, `` I 'm not the only one ! ``

`` I know, '' Matt sighed, `` At least I caught you before you put the branching in there. ``

`` Do I even want to live what you boys were doing down here ? '' Mrs Eckerton asked.

`` Saint John and Kaden wanted a snack, '' flatness replied, `` So they made a loathsome compounding of romance potatoes, hot chocolate patty, and catsup. They liked it, but Albus and I thought it was ugly. Just the aroma of it made me sick. ``

Mrs Eckerton groaned. `` Well, just make clean up the microwave and go back bed. ``

`` Ok, Mum, '' mat replied.

`` You have to admit that was funny, Julie, '' Mr. Eckerton laughed.

`` Yes, I do actually retrieve it funny that you made the Lapp mistake five days ago, and now Saint John the Apostle did it and he 's a baker's dozen year old boy, '' Mrs. Eckerton smirked.

`` How was I supposed to have intercourse nut exploded in the microwave ? '' Mr. Eckerton asked as they stared back towards the stairs.

`` You should receive taken Muggle Studies, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

Albus, Matt, and Kaden waited while John cleaned the microwave. It did n't take him long and soon the four of them returned to their cots in the subroutine library. Albus fell asleep thinking about what rosebush would say when he told her John exploded an egg in matt 's microwave.

******

`` What do you want to do ? '' Albus asked the next day. The boys were all sitting in the den throwing a Quaffle around.

`` Let 's zap random stuff, '' John the Divine suggested.

`` No way, '' Matt replied.

Matt 's parents had officially banned them from cooking for the remainder of the sojourn. Albus found this rather shady, especially the aspect on King John and Kaden 's faces when they were told they could n't wangle. The two of them spent a good twenty hour trying to find a loophole in the rule.

`` Do wizards dally hide and try ? '' Kaden asked.

`` That was random, '' Albus commented, `` But yes, wizards do play cover and essay. ``

`` I play it with my cousins all the time, '' John said.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said. He loved games of skin and seek at the tunnel. There were first-class places to hide there.

`` We should act it, '' Kaden announced, `` It 's always boring to roleplay it at my house because the only if one there to bet it with is Bethany. And she never hide in thoroughly places. ``

`` That 's what Amy said about me when I was little, '' Matt said, `` I would always veil in the same blank space. ``

`` Ok, let 's play, '' John stood up, `` The sofa in here can be home and we can veil anywhere in the firm. ``

`` Sounds good. But no going outside, '' flatness agreed, `` Who 's it ? ``

`` Albus, '' John said.

Albus shrugged. He always liked being it. `` All right. You lot can all go obliterate and I 'll count to 100. ``

Albus closed his center and started counting. He heard the footfall of his friends disappear as he got closer to 100. Usually, one of his older cousins was it whenever he played fell and seek. Albus rarely got to be it.

`` Ready or not, here I come ! '' he shouted and looked around the den. The den would be the utter post for hiding because it was close to the home base couch. But there were n't very many stead to blot out in it.

Albus walked quietly over to the one closet that was in the room. He pulled it undefended and looked inside. Empty. He left the room and looked down the corridor. The bathroom, he thought, that would be a dependable hiding place. Albus himself hid in the bathtub on legion occasions.

He stepped into the bathroom and sure enough, the cascade curtain was pulled shut. Albus yanked it heart-to-heart and saw John laying in the tub.

`` Got you, '' Albus grinned.

`` merlin, this is always a undecomposed fleck ! '' lav groaned as he got out of the tub.

`` Yeah, which is why it 's always where I hide, '' Albus grinned, `` seed on, you can help me look for for matt and Kaden. ``

Albus and lavatory left the bathroom and resumed the hunting. Albus really did n't sense comfortable searching in lustrelessness 's dad 's study, so they left it alone. Albus figured no one would cover in there anyway. They searched the rest of the downstairs, looking in every nook and cranny and wardrobe. But Matt and Kaden were no where to be found.

Next they went upstairs and searched all the bedrooms except Matt 's parents'. The program library and bath were searched as well, but still no chance. The game was reminding Albus of the unity he played at the burrow. St. James was always impossible to rule. Although one sentence he got a broom and decided to hover above the planetary house to hide. No one found him for hours and then the adults made a 'no flying'normal for hide and seek.

`` Where are they ? '' can said as they searched the library for the second time, `` We 've searched the total firm ! ``

`` Not the basement, '' Albus pointed out.

`` good theme, '' John agreed.

Albus and John Lackland ran down the steps and towards the basement. They opened the door and ran down another flight of stairs of stairs. Albus flipped on the luminosity and the two of them began to reckon around. Matt had showed them the basement earlier, when he showed them Amy 's potion brewing room.

John checked the potion brewing elbow room while Albus looked in the principal piece of the cellar that seemed to be a combining reposition area and den. Still nothing. The cellar was perfectly quiet, too.

`` What about that room ? '' john pointed to a room at the back of the basement.

`` Matt said it was just storage, '' Albus replied, `` I doubt either of them are in there. Plus, it 's so tranquilize. We 'd hear some sort of movement. No one 's down here. ``

`` Then where are they ? '' can asked.

`` Maybe they made it to the lounge, '' Albus suggested.

Albus and trick returned the den and mat was laying on the lounge. He grinned and sat up when Albus and John entered the room.

Albus gaped at mat. `` Where were you hiding ? We did n't even see you run in here ! ``

`` I was in that closet, '' lustrelessness pointed to the wardrobe Albus had searched earlier.

`` But I checked that as soon as I finished counting ! '' Albus groaned, `` And no one was in there ! ``

`` There 's a smaller doorway in there that leads to a little cupboard, '' lustrelessness got up off the couch and walked over to the wardrobe. `` Look, '' he opened the door.

Matt pulled back a few coats that were hanging up and Albus noticed a very flyspeck door in the wall. matt opened it and revealed a midget W.C. that was just big enough for a pocket-size individual to climb into.

`` See ? '' Matt grinned.

`` You had an unjust advantage, '' toilet said, `` You know gourmandize about this house that we do n't. ``

`` fountainhead, when we play at your home, then you 'll have an advantage. ``

`` My house does n't have any little secret closets, '' privy muttered.

`` What 's that for anyway ? '' Albus asked.

`` Dunno, '' matte shrugged and looked around the room, `` Hey, where 's Kaden ? Did n't you feel him ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus replied. He never would receive thought that Kaden would be this good at pelt and seek.

`` We 'd break go observe him, '' John the Evangelist said.

`` wonderment why he has n't tried to run to the couch, '' Albus said as they left the room.

`` No musical theme, '' Matt said, `` But with Kaden, it could be anything. ``

The son searched the entire theatre twice, but they still could n't find Kaden. He was the ultimate hide and seek role player, Albus thought. He could even ease up James lessons.

`` Where the ruddy hell is he ? '' lavatory shouted as they walked down the stairs.

`` I wonder if he 'll ever even come out if we do n't regain him, '' Albus said.

`` He 'll come out once he 's athirst, '' Matt pointed out.

`` What are you boys doing ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked. She was sitting on the couch meter reading a Book in the living room.

`` playacting hide and seek, '' matte replied and sat down on a chairwoman, `` But we ca n't find oneself Kaden. ``

`` Did you look outside ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked as she set down her book.

`` Outside was off boundary, '' John said.

`` We 've searched the house twice just now, '' mat said, `` And Albus and John searched it twice before that. We 've looked everywhere. ``

`` Everywhere ? '' Mrs. Eckerton raised her brow, `` Even in the basement ? ``

Matt 's font paled. `` Oh, Falco columbarius ! Not the integral basement ! ``

`` You 'd amend go check, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

Matt jumped off the couch and ran towards the cellar door. Albus shrugged at John as they followed. He did n't have a clue as to why Matt was so unquiet about Kaden hiding in the basement. Plus, Albus and John checked the basement. Except that storage elbow room. But why would that stimulate mat uneasy ? What was in it ?

Albus ran down the stair and followed Matt. Sure enough, matt went straight to the store room.

`` Falco columbarius ! '' mat muttered and paused in presence of the door, `` Why did he hide in here ? ``

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked.

lustrelessness sighed, but did n't answer. He put his hired man on the doorknob and slowly opened it.

Albus gaped as he saw what was in the room. Well, what was n't in it. The room was completely empty and had no window. But the strangest part was that it was padded. The base and walls were completely covered with what looked like mattresses.

`` Is that ? '' Gospel According to John asked, `` A padded way ? ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden, who was running around and literally bouncing off the bulwark, ran over to them, `` Took you long enough ! lustrelessness, why did n't you evidence us you had a pad room in your family ? This is brilliant ! ``

Albus did n't suppose that lusterlessness thought it was so superb. He was staring at Kaden and was as blanched as he had been when his mum suggested they search the basement.

`` Bloody hell, this is glorious ! '' John grinned and walked into the room.

`` No it 's not, '' Matt said quietly, `` get on. ''

matte turned and left without waiting to see if the others would come. Albus followed immediately and he heard bathroom and Kaden run after him. matt did n't say anything as they walked back upstairs, and Albus hoped Kaden would have the sense not to say anything either.

`` Did you find him ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked as they entered the living room.

`` Yeah, '' Matt muttered.

`` Was he- ''

`` Yeah, '' Matt said without stopping.

Albus followed him all the way upstairs and into his sleeping accommodation. Matt flopped down on his bed and stared up at the cap. Albus sat down on the base and john and Kaden sat down on either side of him.

`` Er, what did I do ? '' Kaden whispered to Albus.

`` Shush, '' Albus replied. He had an inkling as to what that room was used for, but he was n't sure. He did know that it was usually in force to let Matt tell them what was going on in his own time, though. Kaden 's pestering questions certainly were n't going to help.

Albus sat quietly for a while as they waited for lustrelessness to say something. He was still laying on his bed staring at the cap. Kaden kept glancing at Albus and then at lusterlessness and back again. Saint John was playing with a gobstone that he had found on the floor.

Matt sighed and sat up. Albus glanced up from the base and looked at him. `` You ok ? '' he asked.

`` I guess, '' he nodded, `` I should have just told you not to hide in that room. ``

Albus nodded and sent Kaden a look so he would n't ask about the room.

`` I do n't lie with if you guessed what that room is for, '' Matt began, `` But I guess I 'll distinguish you. ``

`` You do n't have to, '' Albus said quietly.

`` I know, '' lusterlessness sighed, `` But I will, '' he paused, `` That way is where I transform. ``

Albus nodded. That 's what he had guessed. Judging by the calmness smell on Saint John the Apostle 's nerve, he had guessed it too. Kaden on the former bridge player, was gaping at Matt.

`` Wait, what ? '' he asked.

`` That 's where I go during full lunation, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, '' Kaden replied, `` Why is it padded ? ``

Albus groaned inwardly. Kaden really needed to learn not to ask about these sorts of things.

lusterlessness laid back down on his bed and stared at the roof. `` Back when I was five and I went through my first transformation, I spent the all night ramming into the wall trying to get out. My dad put the padding on the rampart before the side by side full moon. Then when we moved here, my dad recreated the Sami room in the basement of this house. ``

Albus winced at the view of matte ramming himself into a rampart. Every time Matt told him something else about the full moons, Albus felt even sorrier for him.

`` Oh, '' Kaden muttered, `` Er, sorry for hiding there, then. ``

matte sighed, `` It 's ok. I should induce told you not to hide there. ``

`` What about the Shrieking hutch ? '' Kaden asked, `` Is that padded ? ``

`` No, '' Matt replied, `` But it 's bigger, so I do n't bang my fountainhead as much. ``

Kaden nodded. `` Well, I ca n't say I 've ever seen a aggrandise room in anyone else 's house. ``

`` You 'll probably never see one again, '' matte said dryly.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You Guy are all awesome !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The remainder of the sojourn at matte 's house went by very fast for Albus. Albus and the other boy spent the following few days playing various games and doing some of the homework they had put off until the last minute. Amy visited for dinner one eve and let Kaden brew something in her potions room. Kaden was thrilled and after he and Amy had finished, he pronounced Amy the best potions brewer he 'd met besides Slughorn. Albus, Matt, and Saint John the Apostle did not participate in the brewing since all three of them got enough of potions at Hogwarts.

Albus threw his bag over his shoulder joint and went downstairs with mat, John, and Kaden. Mrs. Eckerton and Amy were waiting by the door.

`` Are you boys make ? '' Mrs Eckerton asked.

`` Yeah, '' lustrelessness answered.

Mrs. Eckerton opened the door and Albus followed everyone exterior. They walked a few meters away from the sign and then Mrs. Eckerton put an arm around Matt and the other around Albus. Amy did the same with John Lackland and Kaden and all six of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the midriff of the Leaky Cauldron, which was practically empty. Albus was n't surprised since it was too soon afternoon on a weekday. Albus looked around the pub and saw his mum, Uncle Ron, James IV, rose wine, Victor Hugo, and Lily sitting at a nearby tabular array. John 's mum and baby were sitting with them. James looked bored out of his mind and a little roiled as lavatory 's sisters ran around the room.

The grownup greeted each other while Lily, Hugo, and St. John 's sister, Ashtyn, flew out of their seats and over to Albus and the other boys. rose followed them and stood next to Albus.

`` We 're getting our wands today ! '' Lily announced.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn grinned, `` And books and robes and caldron and- ''

`` We know, Ashtyn, '' St. John the Apostle groaned, `` You 've been telling me about it since I got home from school day. ``

`` Me and Lily are going to be in Gryffindor, '' Ashtyn said proudly, `` But Lily says Victor Hugo is going to be in Hufflepuff. ``

`` Am not, '' Hugo retorted.

`` There 's nothing wrong with Hufflepuff, '' John said, `` My cousin is in Hufflepuff. ``

`` Well, anything 's ameliorate than Slytherin, right Albus ? '' Lily said.

`` Er, right, '' Albus agreed.

`` nestling ! '' Ginny shouted, `` We 're going to go to fanfare and Blotts first, then madam Malkins. Al, you need new robe. ``

`` So do you, Rose, '' Ron put in.

`` As do you, Johnny, '' Mrs. Brickston said.

`` I want my verge ! '' Lily whined.

`` You 'll get it, '' Ginny said, `` But you need vest too. And your wand will be useless without script. ``

Lily pouted and folded her arms across her breast, but followed Ginny out of the pub. Albus and his friends followed the adults, James, and the girl out of the pub and into Diagon Alley.

Diagon alley was a bit more crowded than the Leaky Cauldron, but still rather deserted. Albus walked with the large group into Flourish and Blotts, where the salesman took one flavor at them and ran into the back room. He returned with a saleslady.

Ginny walked up to them. `` Let 's see, I have four Hogwarts book lean. ``

`` And I have two, '' Ron rummaged around in his robes and pulled out two purse piece of music of parchment.

`` I 've got two as well, '' Mrs. Brickston said.

`` And I have one, '' Mrs Eckerton said.

`` Ok, if you 'll just give us a few moment, we 'll get them for you, '' the salesman took the listing and gave half the slew to the saleslady.

`` So, what did you lot do at mat 's house ? '' Rose asked as they were waiting.

Albus looked at Saint John the Apostle and collapse out laughing. `` trick had fun with the microwave oven, '' Albus smirked.

blush wine groaned. `` What did you do ? ``

`` Microwaved an egg, '' John replied, `` It made a nice explosion. ``

`` Bet your mum was n't happy, '' pink wine said to Matt.

`` She just made him make clean it up. My dad did the same affair after we moved here. We did n't have a microwave in Australia, '' mat said.

`` Muggle bailiwick ought to be mandatory, '' rose sighed.

Albus spent a few Thomas More transactions telling Rose about what they had done at Matt 's house, although he left out the part about the padded room. matt could evidence blush wine that later if he wanted to.

`` Here you go, Al, '' Ginny dumped a stack of record book into Albus 's arms.

Once everyone had a stack of playscript in their arms, the group left the book entrepot. They walked down the street until they reached Madam Malkin 's. Luckily, the shop was evacuate, although they 'd have to wait a while until everyone was fitted for robes.

Lily and Ashtyn went first, since they were eager to get their new gown. Hugo was excited about going to Hogwarts, but he could n't wish less about robes.

Albus sat down on a professorship as he waited for his number. lusterlessness and John sat down on either side of him. Albus glanced over and saw that Matt was staring wide eyed at his stack of books. Albus peered down at his own push-down store of Koran, but the one on top was Intermediate Transfiguration.

Albus looked over at matt 's stack of books and he gaped when he saw which book was on top. It was the claim same book that Kaden had found at Flourish and Blotts a year ago. The one entitled Dark Creatures : How to Protect Yourself.

`` Interesting book alternative, '' Albus muttered.

lusterlessness looked up at Albus. `` This does n't bode well for the new demurrer instructor. ``

Albus shrugged. `` Well, one-third year defense does focalise on grim creatures. ``

`` It does ? '' Matt groaned, `` Great. That 's just what I need, for everyone to learn about you know what. ``

`` I doubt they will, '' Albus replied, `` No one 's going to pay that much attention in course. The only one in our yr who would 've put the clues together after learning it in grade is Rose, and she already knows. ``

`` I guess, '' Matt muttered, `` I just hope the teacher is nice. ``

A half time of day later, everyone had new gown who needed them and the large grouping exited madam Malkin 's. They made their way down the street and towards Olivander 's. Lily, Victor Hugo, and Ashtyn arrived before anyone else did and could n't expect to get trying out wands.

Albus watched as his sister waved numerous wand and subsequently broke everything on Olivander 's desk. After she tried a few more than, Lily found her wand and proudly held the box as carefully as she could. Hugo and Ashtyn found wands a few proceedings later and the chemical group set off to the Apothecary.

After a visit to the Apothecary, Eyelops, and Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, everyone had what they needed for the upcoming school yr. Albus was rather tired by the time they finished, but Lily, Victor-Marie Hugo, and Ashtyn seemed to have endless energy. They sort of reminded Albus of the way Kaden had been the previous class. Granted, Kaden still had endless zip, but the three eleven-year-olds had surpassed him.

Albus said goodbye to his friends in the Leaky Cauldron and then Flooed back to Grimmauld post with his mum, Kaden, James, and Lily. He and Kaden watched Lily try to do trance with her new verge while they waited for Dudley to pick Kaden up. Lily was variety of torment that she was unable to do much of anything besides 'Lumos'.

******

In an exploit to try and forfend nearly missing the train like they had the late year, Ginny insisted that Albus, James, and Lily pack their trunks the nighttime before. Despite this, Albus awoke to the shouts of his mother.

`` Albus Severus ceramicist ! '' she shrieked, `` Get up ! We have to leave in ten minutes ! I seriously hope you 've got your trunk packed ! ``

Albus slowly got out of bed as he listened to the loud step of his female parent in the corridor. `` Epistle of James Canicula ceramist ! Get out of bed this instant ! ``

The door to his bedroom opened and Lily came bounding in, already dressed in her Hogwarts robes. `` Al ! We 've got to leave ! ``

`` I know, Lily ! '' Albus said in an annoyed step, `` Now get out so I can get dressed ! ``

Albus hurriedly threw on some apparel once his sister left. He grabbed his owl cage and schooltime bag and quickly left the room. He was quite beaming his trunk was packed and already downstairs.

Harry was sitting on top of Albus 's luggage compartment in the drawing elbow room when Albus walked in. Lily was once again trying to perform spells with her wand.

`` Hey, Al, '' Harry grinned, `` make ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We leaving soon ? ``

`` As soon as James II packs his automobile trunk, '' Harry smirked.

`` James Dog Star Potter ! '' Ginny shouted from upstairs, `` I told you to tamp that last night ! hurriedness up ! ``

`` pa, why ca n't you instruct Defense this year ? '' Lily asked.

`` Because I have too lots oeuvre at the Ministry, '' Harry explained as he pulled her onto his lap.

`` But it 's not fair, '' Lily whined, `` William James and Al got to have you teach them for two years. ``

`` The new teacher is very competent, '' Harry assured her.

`` Is he nice ? '' Albus asked.

`` wellspring, he 's, '' Harry paused, `` He 's honest. That 's a good way of putting it. He 'll treat everyone the like. ``

At to the lowest degree he did n't sound like Washburn, Albus thought. But on the former hand, he did n't sound like Neville or Cedonia either.

`` And just because I 'm not teaching, does n't mean I wo n't be around, '' Harry grinned.

`` What do you mean ? '' Albus asked.

`` I 'm not giving anything away, but Hogwarts will be an stir place to be this yr, '' Harry said, `` Plus, the Ministry decided that Hogwarts needs more than protection in the form of Aurors after hold up year 's incident. And the year before 's. ``

That certainly spiked Albus 's curiosity. What could be going on that would take a shit Hogwarts more arouse than usual ?

`` seminal fluid on, '' Albus replied, `` Ca n't you throw us a hint ? ``

`` Nope, '' Harry laughed, `` I probably should n't give even said that. ``

Albus groaned. `` Aw, just tell us. ``

`` Tell us what ? '' James asked as he entered the room.

`` Dad says something exciting is happening at Hogwarts this year but he wo n't recite us what. ``

`` Please, Dad ? '' St. James the Apostle whined.

`` No, '' Harry lifted Lily off his lap and stood up, `` Now we 'd better go or you 'll miss the train. ``

The Potters arrived on Platform 9 3/4 with 15 minutes to part with, which was actually earlier than they had arrived the previous class. They met Kaden and his kinsfolk as well as pink wine, Victor Hugo and their parents. Harry and Ron loaded all the proboscis onto the geartrain and then returned to say goodbye.

`` I 'll see you soon, Al, '' Harry said as he gave Albus a hug.

`` Be good, Albus, '' Ginny smiled, `` And take care of Lily. ``

`` I will, '' Albus replied, `` Bye, Mum. Bye, Dad. ``

Once everyone had said goodbye, Albus headed to the power train with Rose and Kaden. James immediately left to come up his Friend, and Lily and Hugo followed Albus and Rose. They climbed on just before the train started moving and waved to their parents until the train left the station.

Albus peered into all the compartments trying to chance the one that his friends were in. He eventually found them halfway down the gear and pulled the door open.

`` Hey, '' Albus grinned as he sat down next to Matt.

`` Hi, Albus, Rose, Kaden, '' Matt greeted them.

Kaden sat down side by side to John and rosiness sat following to Amanda. Hugo and Lily sat down near Ashtyn and the three of them immediately started talking about the Sorting and the Hogwarts sign. Albus, who had been listening to Lily lecture about that all summer, did not want to enter in that conversation.

He turned to lustrelessness. `` shot what ? ``

`` What ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` My dad says something exciting is happening at Hogwarts this yr, but he wo n't narrate me what, '' Albus said.

`` Really ? Wish he 'd secernate you what it was, '' Matt replied.

`` How could he say that and not tell you ? '' John groaned.

`` Any ideas what it is ? '' mat asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus shook his head and then turned to Rose, `` Has Uncle Ron said anything ? ``

`` Just that it was something exciting, '' rosebush sighed, `` The only thing I can think of is the Triwizard Tournament. ``

`` The what ? '' mat, Amanda, and Kaden asked at the Sami time.

`` Did n't someone die the last clock time they had that ? '' John asked.

Albus nodded. `` The Triwizard Tournament is a competition that involves three wizarding schooling : Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. A whizz from each school participates in three wizard tasks and whichever hero wins gets the Triwizard Cup.

`` The last time they had it was in my dad 's one-fourth year and a Death feeder tricked the cup into choosing my dad as a fourth whiz. He won, but the early Hogwarts champion, Cedric Diggory, died during the final task. ``

`` Whoa, '' Matt stared at him, `` Do you really think they 'd do that again ? ``

`` No, '' Rose shook her headland, `` There 's no way they 'd do that again. At to the lowest degree not for year. Cedric 's death is too freshly in a lot of people 's minds to suffer that tournament again. So I have no idea what my dad and Uncle Harry were talking about. ``

`` I wish they 'd do the tournament again, '' whoremaster said, `` I fancy myself as the Hogwarts wiz. ``

`` Me, too, '' Kaden grinned, `` That would be smart as a whip. ``

`` Not me, '' Albus shook his read/write head. He hated being in the spotlight. `` I bet James River would do it, though. ``

`` I would n't, '' lustrelessness said.

`` Me, either, '' Amanda agreed, `` What about you, spring up ? ``

`` I 'd probably enrol, '' rosebush replied, `` But last time they did it, you had to be seventeen. So even if that is what was going on this year, none of us would be able to enter. ``

`` I bet Sakartvelo would enter, '' Albus commented.

`` No doubt about that, '' Rose agreed.

`` Oh, and my dad knows who the new Defense teacher is, '' Albus announced.

`` Is he nice ? '' mat asked immediately.

`` All my dad said was that he was reasonable, '' Albus sighed, `` He kind of dodged the dubiousness when I asked if he was courteous. ``

`` That 's a bad star sign, '' flatness groaned.

`` If he 's fair, then he wo n't be favoring the Slytherins, '' John pointed out.

`` Have you looked at that record book yet ? '' Albus whispered to Matt.

`` Nope, '' Matt replied, `` Have n't wanted to. ``

`` fountainhead, '' whoremonger began, `` If he 's mean to you, we can try and get him sacked before he starts the you-know-what social unit. That unit 's not until the end of the year. ``

`` And how are you going to do that ? '' Rose raised her eyebrows.

`` Dunno, '' John shrugged, `` We 'll recollect of something. ``

`` That, '' rosiness sighed, `` Has got to be the dumbest idea you 've come up with. And that includes microwaving the egg. ''

`` wellspring, have you got any respectable ideas ? '' lav asked.

`` Why do n't we just wait and see what the instructor is like before we start thinking about getting him sacked ? '' Rose suggested.

The residual of the train ride passed quickly. The entire compartment participated in an Exploding walkover contest, which rosebush won. Then they bought a tumid total of collation from the trolley car. Albus fell asleep shortly after he finished eating and the succeeding matter he knew, rosiness was nudging him arouse and telling him to alter into his robes.

The sky had turned dark and the conditions stormy while Albus had been sleeping. Thunder sounded and lightning flashed as he pulled on his robes. He was very glad he was n't going to be crossing the Black Lake like Lily was. He 'd much rather take a thestral-pulled go-cart and quell dry.

The train pulled into Hogsmeade station and Albus joined the throng of students heading out into the rainy weather. He heard Hagrid calling the first years and said goodbye to Lily, Victor Hugo, and Ashtyn. Albus found an empty stroller and led his friends inside.

`` The showtime days are going to get soaked, '' john said as he wrung out his hat onto the bottom of the carriage.

`` Spooky crossing the lake in this weather, '' Kaden grinned, `` shuffling me wish I was crossing the lake. ``

`` Maybe the Giant calamary will tip over one of the boats, '' privy grinned mischievously, `` I 've heard it does n't like this variety of weather. ``

rosiness rolled her eyes. `` The Squid is not going to flip one of the boat. ``

If the Squid tipped Lily 's boat, she would freak out. Albus 's sister had always scared easily, a trait that James and Albus always took full advantage of.

`` James purposely tipped his boat when he crossed the lake, '' Albus said. He still remembered his female parent receiving an owl telling her about that. She wasted no time in getting a howler off to James.

`` That 's vivid ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` wishing I 'd thought of that. ``

`` Me, too ! '' John agreed.

`` I 'm glad you did n't, '' Albus laughed, `` We all would have been soaked. ``

`` Yeah, '' Matt agreed, `` That would not own been pleasant. ``

The residual of the trip up to the castle was spent discussing the likelihood of one of the boats being tipped over by the whale Squid. Gospel According to John and Kaden decided that they wanted to find the giant calamary that year and agreed to take a swim in the Shirley Temple Black Lake during the beginning available weekend.

The entire entry Hall was covered in water by the clock time Albus and his acquaintance entered the castling. Albus was sure Filch would have a hippogriff when he saw it. Albus led his friends to the fellow Gryffindor table and sat down, eager for the banquet to start.

Albus scanned the staff table and his eyes rested on the merely unfamiliar face. A rump looking man with his disastrous whisker cut in a Muggle armed forces style was sitting completely still. His eyes seemed to dawn every student in the full elbow room at the Lapplander time. Albus did not get the sense that this teacher would be nice, although he lacked the hatred that Washburn had emanated.

`` That must be the new vindication instructor, '' matte whispered to Albus, `` Falco columbarius, he does not look felicitous. ``

`` face like his face is frozen that way, '' Kaden muttered.

`` I would n't want to be on his bad side, '' Albus replied.

`` looking at to me like he had a bit too often U-No-Poo, '' John laughed.

Albus snorted and shook his head. It did sort of look like the professor had a bit too much of that certain Weasley product. His Uncle Percy wore that Lapp look when his Uncle George I put U-No-Poo in his tea over the summer.

The Great mansion immediately quieted down as Professor Patil led the first years into the room and towards the staff tabular array. They congregated near the three-legged dejection upon which the Sorting Hat sat.

`` They look shorter than last year 's 1st geezerhood, '' John whispered as the Sorting Hat began singing.

`` They are, '' Kaden agreed, `` I was n't that inadequate last class. ``

`` Yeah, you actually were, '' can replied, `` Hey, flatness, I think these first age might actually be shorter than you. A few of them, that is. ``

flatness rolled his eyes. `` At to the lowest degree I 'm not a giraffe like you. ``

`` Hey, height has its benefit, '' John retorted.

`` And so does lack of height, '' Matt pointed out, `` At least I did n't deliver to stand still while brothel keeper Malkin poked me with needles like you did. ``

`` Shush ! '' Rose hissed, `` They 're starting the sorting ! ``

Albus watched as a chubby boy was sorted into Ravenclaw. The side by side low gear year became a Slytherin and the future was another Ravenclaw.

`` Brickston, Ashtyn ! '' Patil announced.

John 's sister ran forward and jammed the hat onto her head teacher with a big smile on her look. Mere seconds later, the hat exclaimed, `` Gryffindor ! '' Ashtyn practically flew across the room and sat down across from John.

`` congratulation, Ashtyn ! '' John grinned, `` Gryffindor really is the best mansion. ``

`` Yeah, '' Ashtyn agreed, `` Although Isabelle kept telling me to hope for Hufflepuff. ``

`` Well, she is a Hufflepuff .... ''

Albus did n't really pay attention to the side by side few sort. He vaguely recognized a few epithet, but did n't really lie with any of them. He snapped back into reality when he heard Patil announce, `` Potter, Lily ! ``

Lily ran forward with almost as much excitement as Ashtyn. The hat took a slight to a greater extent time to decide than it had with Ashtyn, but it soon shouted, `` Gryffindor ! ``

The Gryffindor table erupted with cheer as Lily ran towards it. Albus clapped her on the spinal column, as did King James I and all their full cousin, and Lily took a backside future to Ashtyn.

Soon, Hugo was the only first year left standing near the hat. Hugo had already started putting the hat on when Patil called out his name, which caused a few of Albus 's cousins to collapse out in laughter.

`` He may be the alone Weasley to ever be in Hufflepuff, '' Cedric smirked.

`` Gryffindor ! '' the hat announced a second later.

`` Or not, '' Cedric grinned as he clapped along with everyone else.

Hugo sat across from Lily and Ashtyn. `` Told you I 'd be in Gryffindor, '' he said to Lily. Lily shrugged.

prof Kendrick stood up. `` Welcome, students and faculty ! As usual, I will pull through all the speech making for after the fete. '' He waved his wand and sat back down.

food for thought appeared on all the golden crustal plate and Albus helped himself to some of everything. He was hungry, although this twelvemonth he had kind of desire Kendrick to announce what the energize affair was before the feast.

The topics of word varied greatly during the feast, and Albus mostly listened. John and lusterlessness had a heated debate about the Quidditch season, primarily the Chudley Cannons'spectacular loss to the Holyhead tube-nosed fruit bat that had taken place a few Day previously. Rose chew the fat non-stop about the new social class she was taking and bombarded her older first cousin with questions about them. Albus was amazed she had any interrogative left, since she had done the same thing during the Weasley Family dinner party prior to the start of term.

Kaden talked to whoever would mind about the prospect of adding Muggle technology to Hogwarts. Albus groaned to himself as he heard Kaden tell one of the commencement twelvemonth about his orison to have televisions put into the common way. Amanda listened to Kaden, although it did n't seem like she was nearly as charge up as Kaden was.

`` So, how was the trip across the lake ? '' King John asked Ashtyn as the desserts appeared.

`` Wet, '' Ashtyn replied.

`` Any of the gravy boat tip over ? '' he asked eagerly.

`` No, '' Ashtyn laughed.

`` Hagrid said he had anti-tipping charms put on them after Saint James the Apostle tipped his a few twelvemonth ago, '' Victor-Marie Hugo announced.

`` That 's no fun, '' whoremonger sighed.

A little while later, the golden plates became clean once again and Albus looked eagerly up at the faculty table.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and thanks as well to all the awe-inspiring reviewer and reader !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


professor Kendrick rose to his feet. `` May I have your attention ! '' he shouted and the room quieted down, `` Thank you. Now, I have a few rather tire declaration, two somewhat energise one, and one really exciting one. I shall take up with the drill ones.

`` As usual, the wood and Whomping Willow are out of bounds to everyone. If you wish to try-out for your house 's Quidditch squad, fall in your epithet to your mind of house. The Dueling Club and Jnr 's Dueling Club will be starting up again and once meetings have been set up, I shall let you know.

`` As for the somewhat rouse announcement, we have a new defending team Against the wickedness arts teacher. Please welcome prof Balladanis. ``

The ass looking professor stood up for a few indorsement and received mediocre applause. He resumed his seat and professor Kendrick turned back to the students.

`` The other somewhat interesting announcement is that Hogwarts will be patrolled by Aurors a few days a week. After last year 's incident, the Ministry has deemed this a necessary precaution to acquire. The Aurors are positive that Jarrett Willinson and Jameson Washburn will try to give to Hogwarts at some point this year. I do not recount you this to scare you, but to arrive at you cognizant of the office. If anyone sees any suspicious behavior or has any information regarding the whereabouts of either fugitive from justice, please secernate a teacher. ``

The intact Gryffindor table turned to Albus and his supporter at this announcement. Albus felt his aspect turn red and he stared down at his plate. He really hated all the attention he got from what happened the old two years.

`` And now, '' Kendrick continued, `` I have a very exciting announcement to make. ``

Albus grinned and turned to his acquaintance, who were all wearing equal faces of turmoil, and then turned back to the headmaster.

`` First, I would like you all to remember the inter-house dueling from endure twelvemonth. ``

The integral hall groaned and people started whispering amongst themselves.

`` quiet down, '' Kendrick said, `` There was a rationality why I enacted that last year. Thomas More than just school I, that is. I wanted the schooling to suit more join because of an event that is taking position this class. An result that will put us into contender with early magical schools- ''

`` The Triwizard Tournament ? ! '' Omar Bradley exclaimed, `` Is that it ? ``

`` No, '' Kendrick replied, `` This is not the Triwzard Tournament. It is a dissimilar contender that will involve Sir Thomas More than just one student from each school.

`` Tomorrow evening, shortly before dinner party, a pick out group of scholarly person from the Adirondack academy of Magic, which is in New York nation, and the Aussie School of Sorcery will travel to Hogwarts, where they will know and pay heed social class for the duration of the year. ``

Albus turned to expect at Matt, who was gaping at Kendrick.

`` The students from both schoolhouse will be Sorted into the four Hogwarts house during a special Sorting ceremony tomorrow evening. They will live in whichever house they are Sorted into and attend category with those in their year. I expect you all to care for them like they are chap Hogwarts students.

`` However, you will also be competing against them. There are two issue. The first is Qudditch. Each of the schoolhouse has created a Quidditch team comprised of the topper Quidditch player in their respective schoolhouse. We will be doing the Sami thing here. The three teams will play each other throughout the yr and whichever team wins shall receive the Quidditch Cup for Schools.

`` The former event will be dueling. Each of the schools has also put together a team of the skilful duelers in their respective schooltime. Again, we shall do the Lapplander. The tournaments will work much like the Dueling society works here. ``

The entire shoal started talking at once. Albus thought the hale thing was glorious. It was like the Triwizard tournament, only less dangerous. Maybe he could even participate. He was a decent pursuer and dueller.

`` Albus, you 've got to try out for the Hogwarts Quidditch team ! '' John shouted.

`` I will ! '' Albus grinned, `` As long as they do n't birth an age limit or anything. ``

`` I do n't think they will, '' pink wine said, `` Quidditch is n't that unsafe. ``

`` It kind of is, '' John laughed.

`` Maybe I can duel, '' Kaden said, `` I 'm a second year now. ``

`` I think it 'll be great just to go to school with kid from Australia and New York ! '' Rose exclaimed, `` Think of all we can take from them ! ``

`` Yeah, '' Amanda agreed.

`` tranquility ! '' Kendrick shouted over the chattering and everyone settled down, `` The Hogwarts Quidditch squad is open to anyone who is currently on a household Quidditch team. I 'm sorry if that upsets some of you, but it would be impossible to hold try-outs for the entire school, and I think it would be ameliorate if our team were comprised of those who have experience on a Quidditch team. If you have interest in trying out, delight tell your headway of house.

`` Try-outs for the Hogwarts Dueling team will be open to fifth through seventh years only. ``

`` Crap, '' Kaden muttered.

`` If you want to try out, cave in your name to your point of family. Try-outs for both team will most likely be next weekend. I believe that is all I have to say for now. number one years, please abide by a prefect to your common room. Good Night, everyone. ``

Albus got up from the table and walked to Gryffindor tower with his friends. They talked about the contender the total time. Albus was incredibly excited about the prospect of playing for the Hogwarts Quidditch team, and a little nervous at the same time. Of course, his chances of getting picked were kind of slim. He was the youngest pursuer eligible to try out.

`` Albus ! '' Epistle of James pushed his way through the bunch of Gryffindors in the common elbow room, `` Are you trying out ? ``

`` Of line ! '' Albus grinned, `` You ? ``

`` Yeah ! '' St. James exclaimed, `` That 's everybody ! Everyone on the Gryffindor team is trying out ! Would n't that be baffle if we were all picked ? ``

`` You wo n't be, '' rose wine said, `` The unanimous distributor point is to have a Hogwarts team, not a Gryffindor team. ``

`` Albus and James River will get picked, '' Kaden said adamantly, `` You two are both large Quidditch thespian. ``

`` Thanks, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` But all the other chaser are older than me. ``

`` Energy n't matter, '' lav assured him, `` They 'll be searching for skill, not age. ``

`` Who 's picking the team ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Probably Professor Oteski, '' James said, `` And maybe the heads of home will facilitate. ``

Albus and his Friend talked about the Quidditch competition for another few minutes before retiring to their dormitory room for the Night. Albus climbed into his familiar four-poster bed, but found that he was too agitate to log Z's. The more he thought about the Hogwarts Quidditch team, the more he thought he actually had a chance of making it. He was also excited about having the Australian and American English bookman at Hogwarts. He had n't really met many strange witches and mavin before, not including his aunty Fleur 's family unit. lusterlessness and Amy and their parents were the cheeseparing he 'd fare, and they 'd been living in England for a while. flatness did n't look very shake about the whole thing, though. In fact, he had remained rather quiet ever since Kendrick made the announcement.

******

It was easy to feel the exhilaration at Hogwarts the following day. Since it was William Ashley Sunday, classes were n't starting yet. Most people slept late, and the independent topic of conversation in the Great student residence at lunch period was the competition and the bookman from Commonwealth of Australia and New York.

Georgia organized a spur of the moment Quidditch practice for the Gryffindor squad in order to prepare for the Hogwarts squad try-outs. Albus and the rest of the team practiced for at to the lowest degree two 60 minutes that afternoon.

`` You 're a romp, St. James, '' Albus told his Brother as the two of them began to walk off the pitch, `` Everyone knows you 're the best quester in the schooling. ``

`` Well, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw are the only early mansion that are keeping their Seekers from last twelvemonth, '' James pointed out, `` So I 'll only be competing against Lisa Galivant and Miranda Corner. ``

`` And you 're easily than both of them, '' Albus said, `` I 'll be competing against at least six other Chasers. ``

`` Yeah, but you 're a expert pursuer, '' Saint James the Apostle assured him.

Albus nodded and shouldered his broom. He was already nervous about the try-out, and it was almost a week away. What if he was so uneasy during the try-out that he completely messed up ? He 'd just have to be sure to calm down by then. Albus sighed and continued walking off the pitch shot. Just as he was getting close to the stands, he noticed someone sitting alone in the lour level. It was Matt.

`` I 'll see you back in the common room, '' Albus said to his brother as he detoured towards the stands. James IV nodded and continued back towards the castle.

Matt had hardly said a word the entire day. He was normally quiet, but it was never a good sign when he was completely mute. Albus knew better than to ask why, but he was still curious. He had a impression it had to do with the Australian students.

`` Hey, '' Albus sat down next to Matt.

`` Hi, '' Matt mumbled.

`` Where 's everyone else ? '' Albus asked.

`` pink wine is in the library researching about the sorcerous schools in Australia and New York, '' matte explained, `` Amanda is with her. ``

`` Why does that not surprise me, '' Albus smirked, `` I 'm assuming John is n't with them ? ``

`` No, '' matte gave a halfhearted laugh, `` He and Kaden are in the marauder 's Den. I was there with them, but they kept talking about Quidditch and Dueling competition and I just got sick of it, so I came out here. ``

Albus nodded. Matt was going to receive a severe metre finding someplace in the schoolhouse where no one was talking about the competitions.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively, `` I mean, you 've been kind of still. ``

flatness sighed. `` I, '' he paused, `` I 'm just not that excited about the rival affair. Well, it 's not that, it 's the fact that we 're doing it with Australia. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, not sure enough what to say next.

`` I was supposed to go to the Aboriginal Australian School of necromancy, '' matt continued, `` That 's where Amy went. Then the headmaster told my parents I could n't. In fact, he said it in a downright savage way. I never read that letter. I think Mum burned it. But she never told me what it said. She just said it was mean. The headmaster hates, well, people like me. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. He turned to look at flatness. He looked quite upset about the whole thing. Albus had no idea what to say.

`` I do n't want the master to come here, '' flatness said quietly, `` I know that 's pudden-head, really. I mean, he 's never met me. And we moved five years ago. He probably would n't even pick out my live epithet. ``

`` It 's not stupid, '' Albus assured him. Albus could n't really conceive of what this was like for lusterlessness, though. He supposed the simply matter close would be if Washburn came back to learn or something. `` But I do n't think you 'll really total into middleman with their headmaster much. You ca n't try out for the Quidditch squad or the Dueling Team, so I do n't suppose you 'll do much more than pass him in the corridor. ``

`` I guess, '' Matt sighed, `` It 's just going to be so weird. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` But I do n't think anything will hap. This is Kendrick 's shoal. Even if the Aussie schoolmaster is here, he ca n't really do anything. He 's got no control over anything here. ``

Matt nodded. `` That 's true. I had n't really thought about that. ``

Albus stood up. `` Come on, let 's go find oneself John and Kaden. I 'm sure we can convince them not to mouth about the competition. We could ask them how their plan for swimming in the inkiness Lake are coming. ``

Matt laughed, `` They 're all ready to do it. They just did n't want to do it today since you were practicing Quidditch and blush wine and Amanda were in the library. ``

The remainder of the afternoon went by very quickly. Shortly before dinner, Albus and his friends made their way into the Great residence. The total room was buzzing with inflammation. Albus noticed that nearly all of the professors were wearing dress robes. The exclusively one who was n't was Professor Balladanis, who as wearing the same blackness robes as the premature day.

Albus sat down at the Gryffindor table, where everyone was talking about the foreign schools.

`` I heard that the Australian schooltime of Sorcery is underground ! '' Hugo shouted excitedly.

flatness snorted. `` It 's not. ``

`` Oh, maybe it was the Adirondack honorary society of Magic, '' Hugo replied.

`` That one 's not undercover either, '' mat laughed.

`` How do you know they 're not ? '' Hugo asked.

`` My sister used to go to the Australian school day of black art, '' matte explained, `` And my uncle lives in New York. I 've seen that schooling, too. ``

`` Well, that 's ho-hum, '' Hugo muttered, `` Would bear been better if one of them was underground. ``

`` Hey, Hugo, '' Kaden grinned, `` Guess what the initials of Aboriginal Australian School of sorcery are ? ``

`` A, S, S, '' Victor Hugo shrugged and then a big grin appeared on his face, `` Ass ! That 's glorious ! ``

`` Quiet, please ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crowd, `` The students from the Adirondack academy of Magic shall be arriving at any second ! ``

No sooner had Kendrick finished his sentence, people began to whisper and twist their heads towards the door. Albus craned his head up and saw a tall man striding into the Great hallway. He was wearing dark blue aristocratical gown and had a rather large sum of messy gray hair on his nous. Behind him were a twelve or so educatee wearing identical blueness robes. to the highest degree of the students looked to be a few years older than Albus. They all stared around at the Great residence hall, a couple of them pointing excitedly at the ceiling.

The tall man ( who Albus presumed to be their schoolmaster ) led the students to the staff board. Kendrick greeted them and then looked up at his own students.

`` Let me inclose professor Marvin Bartholomew Roberts, headmaster of the Adirondack honorary society of Magic, and his educatee, '' Kendrick announced, `` Welcome to Hogwarts. ``

Albus and the rest of the Hogwarts pupil eubstance burst into applause. Once it died down, Kendrick opened his mouth again.

`` And now, if I 'm not mistaken, the students from the Aussie School of Sorcery are arriving at the very moment. ``

Albus turned back towards the door and saw another man entering the way. He wore emerald green robes and was completely bald. He made up for the lack of hair on his head word by sporting a pointy mustache and goatee. He was n't nearly as grandiloquent as Roberts, but not inadequate either. He walked purposefully towards the faculty table with his radical of scholarly person clad in matching emerald gullible robes following him.

Albus noticed that Matt did n't take his eye off the man. It was almost like he was frozen in place, except for his center, which followed the man to the faculty tabular array.

`` Now I 'll introduce professor Addair Killigan, '' Kendrick said, `` And the students of the Australian schoolhouse of necromancy. ``

Albus clapped along with everyone else, but it was more subdued. He took an immediate dislike to Killigan just because of what lustrelessness had said. Albus noticed that Matt did n't really spat at all.

`` Thank you, '' Kendrick said once the applause stopped, `` Now, we shall sustain a peculiar categorisation ceremonial occasion in gild to find out which family you belong in. The four firm are Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, and Slytherin. While you are here at Hogwarts, you will inhabit in your sign residence hall, spend spare time in your house common suite, and attend form with the other scholar in your sign. ``

`` You know, it 'll be interesting to see if they adopt the house prejudices like we have, '' rosiness whispered, `` What if two of them are really undecomposed friends and then one is sorted into Gryffindor and the other into Slytherin ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged. rose had a point, though.

`` To be Sorted, all you have to do is put on the classification Hat, '' Kendrick continued, `` It will tell you where you should be. ``

Professor Patil stood up and walked around to the other side of the stave tabular array. She was holding the three-legged stool and the Sorting Hat. She set the hat down on the stool and it burst into song.

There were loud gasps from all of the students from the other two schools. A few of the Hogwarts students giggled at this. All the foreign students stared intently at the hat and whispered amongst themselves.

`` When I call your name, come sit on the can and put on the hat. It will tell you which house you 're in and then you can go sit at the reserve board, '' Patil said after the hat stopped singing. `` Allen, Gregory. ``

A tall and lanky boy with mussy brown fuzz stepped away from the group and sat down on the stool. He was wearing US Navy blue sky robe, so he must make been from New York.

`` Slytherin ! '' the hat shouted. Gregory XII Allen Stewart Konigsberg took the hat off and went to join the Slytherin table.

The sort continued and Albus clapped loudly whenever anyone got Sorted into Gryffindor. So far, all the new Gryffindors looked at least two years sr. than Albus.

`` I think that chap is going to have to miss the immature robes, '' John commented as one of the Australian students was Sorted into Gryffindor, `` It 's just not rule to weary green gown when you 're a Gryffindor. ``

`` I imagine they 'll get Gryffindor robes soon, '' Rose said.

`` Do they even have sign at the Australian school of necromancy ? '' John wondered aloud, `` I mean, all their robe look alike. ``

`` They do, '' Matt told him, `` But those are the patent shoal robes. ``

`` I 'm guessing they wanted to look interconnected, '' Rose suggested, `` I doubt Albus will put on Gryffindor Quidditch gown when he plays on the mansion squad. They 'll probably induce limited Hogwarts robe. ``

`` If I 'm on the team, blush wine, '' Albus sighed. Everyone seemed to think he was going to establish the team. What if he did n't ? Everyone would be disappointed. Albus did n't really like the pressure.

`` esprit de corps, Linda, '' Patil shouted.

Albus turned back to the categorisation and saw a rather abruptly girlfriend footstep forward. Albus watched as she walked towards the three-legged feces and he could n't take his eyes off her. She was beautiful. There was n't really any other way to identify her. Albus had n't ever seen a daughter as pretty as she was. Her dreary brown haircloth cascaded down her back in soft wave. It did n't quite match her surprisingly pale peel, but it was beautiful nonetheless. Her light skin went well with her emerald green gown. She looked a bit aflutter as she sat down and Patil dropped the hat on her head.

Albus turned to count at his friends. Matt, trick, and Kaden were all staring at the lady friend. So was James. In fact, all the boys at the Gryffindor table seemed to be staring at her. The young lady were whispering to each early and glancing up at Linda Morales every so often.

The hat seemed to be taking forever to decide. The entire Great dorm had erupted in rustling. Finally, the brim of the hat burst open and shouted out, `` Gryffindor ! ``

Linda esprit de corps took off the hat and walked quickly towards the Gryffindor table.

`` Bloody underworld, '' Saint John whispered as she took a seat a few seat down from Albus.

Albus nodded and turned to expect at the young lady. She looked, if possible, even more nervous now that she was sitting down.

`` Albus ! '' Rose seethed, `` Do n't stare at her ! ``

Albus shook his head to enlighten his opinion and tried to turn his aid back to the sorting. A petty while later, the finally student was Sorted into Hufflepuff and Patil and the early master took seats behind the staff table.

Kendrick stood up. `` I 'm sure as shooting you are all quite famished by now, so without further ado, dinner is served. '' Kendrick waved his wand and the golden plates filled with food.

None of the new student had sat near Albus and his friends, so they did n't get a probability to really get to know any of them. well-nigh of them were older anyway. Albus 's first cousin struck up conversations with a few of them, though. Albus did notification that Linda was n't saying much, despite the fact that she had quite a few Gryffindors trying to talk to her.

`` Well, I certainly hope everyone enjoyed the feast, '' Kendrick announced after the collection plate cleaned themselves of sweet, `` I have just a few annunciation. The new bookman need to acquire note of the fact that the forest and the Whomping Willow are out of bounds. There is also a rather large listing of prevent objects. The entire list can be viewed on the caretaker 's threshold, which is located on this layer. Or, you can ask your fellow students. Anyone with the last name of Weasley has a particularly across-the-board noesis on the bailiwick. ``

There was a large sum of laugh at this, mostly from the Gryffindor table.

`` Also, try-outs for the Hogwarts Quidditch team will be held this Saturday at one in the good afternoon. Dueling team try-outs will be held a week from today, also at one in the afternoon. And with that, I suggest you all turn in early, as classes start tomorrow. ``

When Albus and his friends returned to the Gryffindor rough-cut room, Linda Morales was already there, surrounded by a rather large group of male child and a couple girls. She did n't appear to be enjoying it, though. She looked as nervous as she had been in the Great Hall and was mostly just nodding.

`` I 'll bet anything all those blokes have asked her out already, '' Rose muttered as they watched the group.

`` Probably, '' Amanda agreed.

`` They should just leave her alone, '' pink wine went on, `` It does n't reckon like she wants all that attention. I 'll bet she 's overwhelmed by everything. ``

`` I wonder how old she is, '' Albus said. He 'd been trying to visualise that out all evening.

`` Dunno, '' Rose shrugged, `` She looks our age, but honest-to-goodness at the same sentence. It 's sort of odd. ``

`` Guess we 'll regain out tomorrow, '' Albus said, `` She might be in our category. ``

`` fountainhead, I 'm going to bed, '' Matt turned away from Linda and stood up.

`` He 's been subdued all evening, '' John commented as Matt left.

Albus leaned over to John. `` That Killigan bloke, the headmaster, is the reason he could n't go to school in Australia, '' Albus whispered.

`` Oh, '' toilet said, `` Well, that would explain it. ``

Albus and his protagonist stayed up for a few more minutes before turning in for the night. Albus laid awake for a piece, though, thinking about Linda Morales.


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


Dislcaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


As it turned out, Albus did n't ingest to expect until social class to know if Linda morale was his age or not. Rose and Amanda burst out of the fille'dormitory as Albus, Matt, and St. John were heading down to breakfast.

`` Albus ! '' pink wine caught up with him, `` Linda is our age. She 's in our dorm. ``

`` Really ? '' Albus replied, realizing that he had n't really thought about which dormitory the new students would be in.

`` Where is she now ? '' John asked.

`` Still up there, '' Amanda said, `` She 's been in the bathroom for age. ``

`` female child, '' Gospel According to John muttered, `` I 'll never understand them. ``

The group hurried down to the Great vestibule and ate a quick breakfast before their first course of instruction. Neville handed out schedule and Albus saw that he had Care of Magical Creatures first.

`` Blimey, this schedule is packed, '' John said as they headed out of the castle towards Hagrid 's hut.

`` Well, we are taking two extra classes now, '' Albus pointed out.

`` marvel who we 'll have this class with, '' Matt said.

`` With our luck, it 'll be the Slytherins, '' Amanda groaned.

`` Maybe Linda 's taking this class, '' John said hopefully.

Amanda sighed, `` You have n't even met her. ``

`` Yeah, but this class would be the perfect metre to do that ! '' Gospel According to John pointed out.

Amanda groaned and they continued their trek to Hagrid 's hut. Once they got there, they saw that they were indeed with the Slytherins. Albus groaned inwardly and stood with his friends as everyone waited for Hagrid to appear.

`` 'Ello, everyone ! '' Hagrid said as he stepped out of his hut a few minutes later, `` Welcome to attention o'Magical fauna. ``

`` Hi, Hagrid, '' Albus grinned.

`` 'Ello, Albus, '' Hagrid grinned back, `` Now, today 's lesson 's abou'Flobberworms. Can anyone tell me anything abou'them ? ``

Flobberworms, Albus thought. Flobberworms were about the least exciting magical creatures in the macrocosm. Albus wished they were doing something a bit more commove.

`` Nobody ? '' Hagrid said, `` Well, I know they are n't the most excitin'puppet, but we 've got to pop somewhere. Now, flobberworms are small Caucasian worms .... ''

Albus listened as Hagrid explained about flobberworms, but he did n't fill any notes. Rose would have, but Albus did n't see the point. Flobberworms were pretty basic.

`` Now, everyone can take a worm, '' Hagrid held up a box, `` An'pass them into yer notes an'observe 'em. ``

Albus and his ally each took a insect and began the tedious project of recording the worms'every campaign and sketching them. Albus thought the rest of the class was rather irksome and was a bit disappointed. He had kind of been expecting Hagrid to bring in some sort of dangerous creature, like he had when his dad was at Hogwarts. Although, come to conceive of it, his cousins had said Hagrid had adopted a more formula curriculum.

`` I wish Hagrid would contribute in a dragon or something, '' lavatory said as they made their way back to the castle for Transfiguration.

`` He probably wishes that, too, '' Albus laughed.

The Transfiguration classroom was already filling up by the time Albus and his friends entered. Albus noticed that they had this stratum with the Hufflepuffs. Rose was already inside, sitting at her usual table in the front end. Amanda quickly joined her. Linda was there as well, but she was sitting by herself at the early movement desk.

`` Let 's go sit by Linda ! '' John said excitedly.

`` Sure, '' Albus grinned and started to walk towards her table.

`` Wait, '' Matt said, `` There 's only two backside. And do you really want to sit in the front ? ``

`` Er, that 's true, '' toilet said, `` We 'll sit behind her then. ``

Albus vaguely wondered why Matt so set on not sitting with Linda, but he did n't dwell on it and sat down at the table behind Linda. Patil walked in a import later and everyone quieted down.

`` For the first few form we shall be learning about a very unmanageable offset of transfiguration, '' Patil said after she took attendance, `` And it is called the Animagus metamorphosis. Can anyone assure me what that is ? ``

Albus smirked as rose wine 's bridge player shot into the air. Albus knew the answer, of course, but he was perfectly felicitous to let Rose answer.

`` Yes, Miss morale ? '' Patil pointed to Linda.

Albus turned away from Rose and saw that Linda had half-way raised her hand. The rest of the year was staring at her as well, probably because Rose always answered the preliminary dubiousness in class.

`` The Animagus Transfiguration is the act of transfiguring oneself into an animal, '' Linda answered.

`` Yes, that is correct, '' Patil smiled.

Albus noticed that Rose was staring in seismic disturbance at Linda. He had to dampen a jest at this.

Patil went on to describe Animagi in more detail and Albus took a few banker's bill.

`` Can anyone name a registered Animagus they may have heard about in another class ? '' Patil asked.

Both rose wine and Linda 's custody shot up into the air. Patil called on Rose this time.

`` Minerva McGonagall, '' blush wine answered.

`` Yes, she turns into a cat. She used to teach Transfiguration here and was the Headmistress for a few age. How about an illegal Animagus ? ``

Albus scribbled the words 'Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs'onto a piece of parchment and showed it to matte and St. John the Apostle. All three of them stifled laughter and then looked back up at Patil.

`` Rita Skeeter, '' rosiness grinned.

Patil smiled. `` Yes, and it was your female parent who discovered her. ``

The rest of the class passed by at a reasonably speedy step and once it was over, Albus and his friends went to the Great mansion for lunch.

`` You 've got some contention, rose, '' John grinned as they walked down the corridor.

`` Shut up, '' rosiness muttered.

`` She might dumbfound you on the next test, '' John laughed.

`` And your power point is ? '' Rose snapped.

They walked the relief of the way in silence, as no one wanted to set rosiness off even more. Albus had no idea she would get that competitive about class. Although after two years of easily being the smartest in their year, Rose had n't previously had any competition.

Half the Gryffindor table was roaring with laughter when they arrived for luncheon. James quickly filled Albus in on the fact that Victor Hugo had exploded his first potion earlier in the forenoon and was apparently quite lofty of it.

`` fountainhead, you 'll have no competition from him, '' John muttered to pink wine. rose sent him a shrivel up look and sat down to eat.

Albus spent dejeuner telling Kaden about tutelage of Magical wight. Despite the fact that they learned about flobberworms, Kaden was jealous.

The third twelvemonth Gryffindors had double potions after dejeuner, with the Slytherins again. Slughorn started the class with a critical review of the previous year 's potions. Once again, Rose and Linda both knew the response to every question. Then, when Slughorn had them brew a new potion, both Rose and Linda tied for upright potion. Slughorn gave them each a bar of Honeyduke 's cocoa. Albus was quite surprised that Linda seemed as smart as rosebush. He had never met anyone his age who could compete with blush wine with grades. John was right. Rose did have some competition.

******

`` Well, clip to go meet the new Defense teacher, '' Albus said as he finished breakfast the next morning.

`` I wish your dad was still teaching, '' matte sighed.

`` Yeah, '' St. John the Apostle agreed, `` The new teacher looks like the sort of fellow who gives a lot of homework. ``

`` You really ought to just keep back an capable mind, '' rosebush commented as they left the Great Hall.

`` Easy for you to say, '' John muttered, `` You 're freakishly smartness. ``

`` You have got to be kidding me ! '' Albus groaned as they reached the schoolroom, `` We 're with the Slytherins, again ! ``

`` Great, '' lusterlessness sighed, `` Three eld in a row, what are the chances of that ? ``

Albus led the way into the classroom. Linda Morales was already seated at one of the front end table. rose wine and Amanda immediately took the former front table.

`` Let 's sit in the back, '' matt muttered.

Albus nodded. He really did n't require to sit near the front. The teacher was already there and was wearing an unreadable expression. If he turned out to be mean, Albus preferred to be as far away as possible.

The classroom looked exactly the Sami as it had the year before, except for a tree trunk that was sitting in figurehead of the teacher 's desk.

A few more scholarly person trickled in and once the bell rang, the teacher waved his baton and the threshold slammed loudly. Albus jumped in surprise and snapped his attention back to the new teacher.

He walked slowly from behind his desk and stood in front of it. He was holding a piece of parchment and a flight feather. Albus noticed that he was wearing the Saami opprobrious robes, except now he noticed that there were intricately designed silver fastenings on them.

`` Please raise your hand and say 'present'when I call your name, '' he said in a buttocks voice. He ran through the lean, fixing each scholarly person with a piercing gaze when he called on them.

`` Brilliant, '' he said flatly, `` All here. I am Professor Balladanis, as you all know from professor Kendrick 's speech. You will address me as Professor Balladanis, or professor, or Sir. I will not tolerate speaking out of turn or misbehavior of any kind in my schoolroom. I expect all homework and other assignments to be completed on time, no alibi. ``

professor Balladanis began to pace back and Forth River in forepart of his desk. `` As you shall key throughout the year, I take defensive attitude magic very seriously. '' He paused and glared sharply at Linda and Janie Creevey, who had sat next to Linda.

`` defensive trick is a very very important branch of trick. I would make the argumentation that is the most crucial. It can keep your living. It has saved my life on numerous social occasion. I have no doubt that your previous two years of didactics were very all-embracing and I am for certain you all have a BASIC cognition of defensive spell courtesy of Professor thrower. ``

Balladanis stopped pacing and paused before continuing his talking to. `` However, the third gear year Defense Against the Dark artwork curriculum focuses on defense team against night creatures. '' He turned to Albus 's table and gave Albus, mat, and lav a piercing stare.

`` I will be continuing the course of study that has been used in this schoolhouse since after the final struggle, '' Balladanis continued, `` I have looked over the curriculum and have deemed it satisfactory. I immensely approve of the kickoff day 's object lesson for third years. I 've always thought a practical approach was good for Defense, although I do expect you to carefully register your textbook book as well.

`` In this box, '' Balladanis gestured to the trunk, which jumped a trivial as he touched it, `` Lives a boggart. Can anyone evidence me what a boggart is ? ``

Rose and Linda 's bridge player shot up into the air. Balladanis smirked and pointed to blush wine. `` Yes, fille ... ? ``

`` Weasley, sir, '' Rose replied, `` A boggart is a shape gearstick. It takes the strain of whatever panic you most. No one knows what one really looks like. ``

Balladanis nodded. `` Correct. 5 points to Gryffindor. Boggarts, '' he began pacing again, `` charter the form of whatever panic us virtually. The boggart focuses on the nearest mortal and turns into whatever scares them.

`` We will have an advantage over our boggart. There are a lot of us, which means the boggart will get fuddle about what to wrench into. However, that is not enough. There is a essential incantation for defeating boggarts. It is 'Riddikulus'. repeat after me, 'Riddikulus'. ``

`` Riddikulus, '' Albus said along with everyone else.

`` Good, '' Balladanis said, although his voice was n't exactly cheerful, `` You 'll also take to call up of a way to turn whatever your most venerate thing is into something funny. laughter is what really finishes off a boggart. Then, think of that as you 're saying the incantation. Now, direct out your wands and stand up. ``

Albus pulled his sceptre out of his bag and stood up. He was n't even sure what he was most afraid of. Snakes ? No, he really did n't reverence Snake. Spiders ? Nope, not them either. He had no idea what that boggart was going to turn into, and that made it even scarier.

Balladanis waved his wand and all the table and chairs moved to the sides of the schoolroom. `` Form a wrinkle, '' he instructed.

Everyone pushed to be at the front of the phone line. Albus wound up being towards the back, behind John and in front of Matt.

`` young woman Weasley, '' Balladanis motioned for rose to mistreat forward, `` Perhaps you could go first. ``

blush wine nodded and stepped out of the line. She stood in front of the trunk with her wand raised. Albus had no idea what the boggart would call on into for blush wine either. Nor did he suffer a clew what bathroom and Amanda 's boggarts would be. He had an inkling about flatness 's, though.

Balladanis stood off to the slope and pointed his baton at the trunk. The lid slowly opened and out stepped ... Neville. Albus gaped at the boggart.

The boggart Neville opened his mouthpiece. `` I 'm sorry, Rose, you did not get the highest grades in your yr. You 've been beaten. ``

Oh, Albus thought, that kind of made sense. For a bit there, Albus actually thought rosiness was afraid of Neville, which was ridiculous.

`` Riddikulus ! '' Rose shouted.

The boggart Neville swayed, but did n't look any dissimilar. He opened his mouth again. `` rose, you have beaten everyone in the entire school ! You have the best level in the history of Hogwarts. ``

Albus smirked. It was n't entirely funny, but it fit Rose perfectly.

`` Interesting, '' Balladanis muttered, `` adjacent ! ``

rose stood off to the slope and grinned as Amanda stepped forward. Albus watched as the boggart turned into a very enceinte snake.

Amanda stared at it for a few moments and then shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The snake twirled around and tied itself into a knot. Amanda, along with most of the rest period of the stratum, burst out laughing. Amanda stepped to the side next to Rose and Janie Creevey stepped forward.

Janie 's boggart turned into a whale rat, which then got transformed into flyspeck shiner. A few Slytherins were up after her, and then it was Linda Morales 's turn.

Albus watched intently as the boggart that had previously been a flying dragon bout into a raging fire. Linda raised her wand and shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The fire turned into a waterfall and Linda joined the growing mathematical group of students off to the side.

Marina Jordan-Bell was next, and her boggart turned into a spider, as did her sister, Karina 's. Karina had a bit of trouble, but eventually managed to turn the spider rainbow colouring material. Ethan and a couple of the Slytherins had difficulty as well.

Leigh Montague charmed her mummy boggart into a strait jacket and then it was Saint John the Apostle 's twist. He stepped forward and the mummy turned into a clown. A merry andrew, nail with a big red nose and vast shoes.

Albus could listen a few of the other students snickering already. Albus was n't exactly a fan of clowns, but he could reckon of at least ten affair that were scarier than them.

`` Riddikulus ! '' John shouted. The merry andrew boggart started to take the air forward, but it tripped over its ridiculously expectant feet, which were growing at an alarming charge per unit. The entire course of instruction flare-up out in the loudest laughter yet as John joined rose wine and Amanda.

Albus took a recondite breathing place and stepped forward. The merry andrew with the huge groundwork started spinning again and when it stopped, it looked like Professor Oteski. The Oteski boggart stepped towards Albus.

`` You did not fix the Hogwarts Quidditch team, '' it said.

Albus gulped. Come to mean of it, that was what he was most afraid of at that mo. But how could he make it funny story. He racked his genius as the Oteski boggart continued walking towards him.

`` Riddikulus ! '' Albus shouted.

The boggart spun around again and then stopped. `` You did fix the squad ! '' it said, `` In fact, everyone is on the team ! All of Hogwarts will play at once and therefore win the contender ! ``

Albus laughed at the thought of a Quidditch squad consisting of over 200 the great unwashed on it and joined toilet at the side of the classroom. Albus watched as lusterlessness stepped forward.

`` Hey, Potter, '' Scorpius whispered, `` I bet the boggart wo n't know what to change state into with Eckerton. He 's afraid of everything. ``

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus growled.

`` Quiet over there ! '' Balladanis shouted. Albus immediately shut his mouth and Scorpius did n't say anything else.

The boggart was spinning around again and when it stopped, it did n't change by reversal into the shiny full moon that Albus had been expecting. It had turned into a very dark looking man. He was skinny and rather short-change and had a mop of untidy brown hair on his head. It was n't like Roberts 's hair, though. This bloke 's hair was thready and dingy looking. His eyes were piercing, not unlike Balladanis 's, and he was sneering at matte. Albus did n't recognize who it was. He had n't seen anyone that resembled the boggart.

The boggart stepped slowly towards Matt, who looked frozen in piazza. Albus could see his baton shaking in his handwriting.

`` Who 's that gent ? '' John whispered.

`` No estimation, '' Albus said.

Albus continued to watch as the boggart advanced towards lustrelessness. Balladanis was n't doing anything besides watching with an unreadable expression on his look.

The boggart was now only a duet feet away from flatness, who still was n't doing anything. The boggart began to slowly raise its manus and muttered something that Albus could n't quite catch.

At that minute, Matt seemed to unfreeze. He stepped back and all of a sudden ran towards the door. He wrenched it assailable and disappeared from the elbow room. Everyone who had already faced the boggart started whispering amongst themselves

Albus turned to John, who shrugged. Albus could n't even start out to imagine why mat was afraid of that strange man, but he could sense that it went beyond a normal fear.

`` I 'm going after him, '' Albus whispered to John the Evangelist. john nodded and Albus ran from the way without asking Balladanis or even looking back at him.

Albus could see Balladanis trying to still the rest of the student down as he walked quickly down the corridor. flatness was n't anywhere to be found. Albus continued to walk down the corridor, not really knowing where he was going. Where would Matt go ? The dormitory ? Room of prerequisite ? Marauder 's Den ? That was it, Albus thought. That 's where lusterlessness would go. After all, only a few people knew about that.

Albus walked through the empty corridors, thankful that nonentity else was wandering around. He glanced at his watch. There was only ten proceedings left in class.

The fifth floor corridor was also deserted. Albus quickly pulled up the arm on the appropriate suit of armor and then searched the paired wall for the midget paw print. He found them and glanced up and down the corridor once more before wrenching the door open.

The room looked empty when Albus stepped inside. In fact, it looked just like they left it at the end of the previous year. Albus had n't been in it for month. He quietly walked further into the elbow room and headed straightaway for flatness 's bay.

Matt was sitting on his four-poster bed, just staring directly at the wall in front of him. Albus wordlessly sat down on the bed, not certain of what to say. Matt did n't even acknowledge the fact that Albus was there. Either that or he did n't notice.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked after a few instant of ungainly silence.

Matt looked over at him. He did n't front all right. His side was pale livid. `` I guess, '' he said quietly, `` But everyone probably thinks I 'm afraid of everything now. Nobody else ran out of the room. ``

`` Maybe everyone else 's boggarts were n't as scary, '' Albus suggested.

`` Maybe, '' flatness muttered.

Albus heard the doorway open and he craned his head around to see that Rose, John, and Amanda had come inside. Saint John and the girls walked over to where Albus and matte were.

`` We 've got your udder, '' bathroom said as he dropped Albus and Matt 's suitcase on the floor.

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied.

`` Are you all right ? '' whoremaster asked Matt.

`` Yeah, '' Matt sighed.

`` What have we got side by side ? '' Albus asked.

`` Herbology, '' Rose answered, `` And we 'd better go if we do n't want to be late. ``

`` Are you coming ? '' Albus asked Matt.

`` Yeah, '' flatness got up off the bed, `` Let 's go. I just hope we do n't have it with the Slytherins. I 'd bet my last Galleon that Malfoy 's going to make fun of me for this for balance of the year. ``

Albus would have been willing to bet that as well. Fortunately, the third year Gryffindors had Herbology with the Ravenclaws that year. A few of the other Gryffindors stole quick glances at matt during the beginning part of the grade, but nobody said anything to him. Neville quizzed them about a few plants they had learned about the previous year for a few hour. pink wine and Linda answered all of them. Then he gave a all-inclusive overview of what they 'd be doing that year.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


After tiffin, Albus, Rose, and Matt headed to antediluvian Runes while John and Amanda went to Divination. Albus did n't really know what to expect from antediluvian runic letter, nor did he be intimate anything about the teacher. matt had told them that Amy said the teacher was nice enough.

Albus, Rose, and Matt sat down at one of the mesa in the middle of the way and waited for the teacher. Linda morale was already seated at one of the presence board. Albus wondered how she always seemed to be the first to get in to any year. There was also an assortment of Hufflepuffs in the room. Albus, rosebush, lustrelessness, and Linda appeared to be the only Gryffindors taking the division, though.

The professor walked in a few minutes later. She was a shortsighted woman with curly Zane Grey whisker and a patient role expression on her face.

`` how-do-you-do, '' she smiled, `` I 'm Professor Sturly. ``

She took attending and then gave a lengthy talking to about what the cogitation of ancient Runes was. Albus kind of thought she could receive condensed it and he found himself zoning out about halfway through. Rose was paying rhapsodic aid and Albus had a spirit this would become one of her favorite classes.

Towards the end of the class, Sturly gave an overview of the first chapter in their script and then assigned the remainder of the chapter for homework. The chapter covered a diverseness of canonic runes that Albus and the rest of the students would have to memorize.

appealingness consisted of blush wine and Linda alternatively answering every doubt Cedonia threw at them. Albus had a flavour it would turn a regular natural event in all the grade he had with both blush wine and Linda.

`` How was Divination ? '' Albus asked his supporter after dinner as they were sitting around the Marauder 's Den.

`` Entertaining, '' John laughed, `` I think it 'll be my easiest class. ``

`` So, who did Trelawney say would die this yr ? '' Rose asked.

`` What ? ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` mortal 's going to die ? ``

`` No, '' Rose sighed, `` Trelawney just predicts soul 's demise every year. The student in question has never actually died during that twelvemonth. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden shrugged, `` So she 's not a real psychic ? ``

`` You mean a vaticinator ? '' Rose asked, `` Well, she has made a few real predictions. She 's the one who spoke the prophecy about Albus 's dad. But can she really predict the future with watch crystal balls and such ? I doubt it. I really doubt anyone can do that. I 'm sure there are real vaticinator out there, but they 're extremely rare. Divination is a very obscure branch of magic that is hard to rede. My mum says we should n't put much faith in it. ''

`` I still think it would be brilliant to know the future, though, '' Kaden grinned.

`` I do n't know, '' Matt shrugged, `` I 've always thought the future was best result obscure. ``

`` I 've always thought so, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` So, who 's going to snuff it ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Carter Eubert, '' privy replied, `` That Ravenclaw we shared a boat with when we crossed the lake in first year. I have to say that I 'm relieved it was n't me. ``

`` Me, too, '' Amanda agreed.

rose wine groaned. `` I 've told you that it 's not very ! Trelawney has never accurately predicted a student 's death. She predicted my Uncle Harry 's Death and he 's still live ! ``

`` Yeah, but did n't he nearly die at the end of his tertiary year ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Key Book, nearly, '' pink wine replied, `` Plus, he faced expiry pretty much every year. ``

`` Ok, ok, '' can said, `` But I 'm still glad she did n't foretell my death, even if it 's not a real prediction. ``

`` So how was Ancient runic letter ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Really occupy ! '' rose wine said excitedly and proceeded to give a comment on how the division had went. However, Kaden seemed to be the merely one really intrigued by it.

Albus and his friends spent the residue of the evening in the Marauder 's Den. Once they had exhausted the topic of their first two 24-hour interval of stratum, they moved on to the Quidditch contention and Albus 's chances of making the Hogwarts squad. Everyone thought Albus had a good chance of making it, except Albus. Then they talked a bit about their coming Hogsmeade trips, although that topic kind of made Kaden covetous. whoremonger brought up the topic of Linda Morales, but both Rose and lustrelessness did n't want to talk about her at all.

Eventually, they had to return to Gryffindor tug in order not to break away curfew. On his way up to his dorm, Albus noticed that Linda once again was surrounded by a mathematical group of admirers, but appeared not to be enjoying it at all.

******

`` No ! I do n't want to go ! Dad, do n't make me go ! ''

Albus 's eyes snapped open air. He peered at the clock and saw that it was just after two in the aurora. He could hear individual tossing and turning and mumbling in their sleep in the bed next to him.

`` Please, I do n't want to. Just let me go home. ``

Albus was wide awake now. The talking was coming from Matt 's bed and Albus knew he was having a incubus. Albus had been woken up by Matt 's nightmare on numerous function, especially during first year. They always seemed to come around the wide lunation. Although, Albus was pretty sure enough that the full moon was n't for a few weeks. This nightmare sounded worse anyway.

The mumbling continued for another few minutes and then stopped all of a sudden. Albus heard the bed creak and footsteps crossing the room until they disappeared altogether. Albus sat up and waited a few minutes before quietly getting out of bed. He stepped into his slippers and padded across the room and carefully shut the door behind him. None of the former boys had woken up.

The common way was dark and evacuate when Albus got there. The fire had long since died out and Albus shivered slightly as he stumbled around the way. There was feeble wand light coming from one of the corners. Albus walked slowly towards it and saw lusterlessness sitting curled up in one of the chairs, staring at the floor.

Matt startled when he saw Albus. `` Oh, Albus, '' he sighed, `` What are you doing up ? ``

Albus shrugged and sat down in the chair next to Matt 's. `` Followed you down here. ``

`` Oh, did I wake you up ? ``

`` variety of, '' Albus replied, `` But it 's ok. I just came to see if you were all right. I mean, first the boggart and then that nightmare- ''

`` How do you make love I had a nightmare ? '' mat asked.

`` I sort of heard you mumbling, '' Albus answered, `` You were talking in your nap. ``

`` Oh. ``

`` Listen, '' Albus paused, `` You do n't have to tell me, but I was kind of wondering who that gent was that your boggart was. I mean, I sort of thought it would be a full moon. ``

`` So did I, '' flatness said quietly, `` Which is contribution of why I freaked out so much. ``

Albus nodded, wondering if matt was going to extend or not.

`` I know I have n't told you much about what happened when I lived in Commonwealth of Australia, '' Matt began.

Albus nodded again. All he really knew about flatness 's lifetime in Australia was that he had lived in a planetary house and his dad had been the Head of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures.

`` That bloke the boggart turned into is the current promontory of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures, '' mat continued, `` He replaced my dad. But before that, he was the forefront of the Werewolf ascendency unit of measurement. ``

Albus was still a bit confused about why he was matte 's boggart, but he figured it would be best to just not say anything.

`` While my parents were in the summons of finding out where to move, a law was passed that all werewolves had to transubstantiate in a Ministry approved center if their place of translation failed an inspection. Mine failed. ``

`` What ? ! '' Albus gaped at him, `` But your dad was- ''

`` The head of the department, I know. They passed the law while we were visiting New House of York. My parents refused to let me transform at one of the Ministry midpoint, so they broke the law and were fined. The first of all time that happened, my dad was fired over it.

`` But that bloke, Ralph Lubar is his name, would n't give up until I transformed in one of the centers. My parents said it was because he hated my dad so much. The two of them had some sort of longsighted condition row going on or something. I do n't know the detail. But anyway, '' Matt paused, `` Eventually, Lubar was able to pass a law that made it legal for the Ministry to exact lycanthrope by force to one of the transformation centers. He flooed to our house, grabbed me, and flooed to the Ministry approved center before my parents had a fortune to hold back him. ''

Albus stared at Matt. He could hardly believe what he was hearing. What was even more unbelievable, was that it had been legal. How could it be legal to basically kidnap a kid for a Night ?

`` I do n't remember any of it, '' lusterlessness said quietly, `` Except for what happens in the nightmare I have. It was horrible, though. The other lycanthrope were all adults and they all sort of ganged up on me. I spent a day or so at the hospital in Commonwealth of Australia and then my parents had me transferred to St. Mungo 's because they wanted healer Sterling to take fear of me. I spent three workweek there. ``

`` wellspring, it makes common sense that you were so scared of that boggart, '' Albus said, `` Lubar is one of the most horrible sensation I 've ever heard of. ''

Matt nodded and shifted slightly. `` I thought I was over it. I mean, it was over five eld ago. I really thought that boggart would turn into a fully moon. But I guess having Killigan here brought everything back. I thought all that stuff that happened in Australia was behind me, but I guess not. ``

`` nix like that is going to occur here, '' Albus said quietly, `` Lubar has no ascendance over our Ministry. He 's in Australia. ``

`` I guess you 're right, '' lustrelessness sighed, `` I think I 'll go see if madam Pomfrey will give me any dreamless log Z's potion. Could I use the invisibility Cloak ? ``

`` Yeah, of trend, '' Albus said as he stood up. He had a tactile sensation that Madam Pomfrey would definitely impart him the dreamless rest and probably try and convert him to spend the night in the Hospital annex as well.

Albus and Matt quietly walked back to the hall and Albus dug out the Cloak, as well as the second edition vulture 's Map, and handed them to lusterlessness. Once matte had left the elbow room, Albus climbed back into bed.

Albus lay awake thinking about what lustrelessness had told him for a while. His own boggart of not making the Hogwarts Quidditch squad seemed very peanut now that he knew the details about flatness 's boggart. That did n't make Albus any less flighty about the try-outs, though.

******

Albus and the other Gryffindor tierce years, as well as the Ravenclaws, started out the next day with story of deception. All Albus learned during the hour was that one-third year account of illusion was equally as boring as second class. metamorphosis consisted of another speech on Animagi and Albus noticed that John paid a considerably more amount of attention than he usually did. Albus thought this was pointless, though, since they had already established the previous yr that they would not become Animagi.

charge of Magical tool was after lunch and the class moved on to the slightly more interesting bowtruckles. Albus was very thankful for the break they had afterwards, when Rose went to Muggle Studies.

`` It 's only the third day and I 'm already spew of homework, '' Albus muttered as they entered the Marauder 's Den.

`` So do n't do it, '' John the Evangelist said as he pulled a Chocolate Frog out of his bag.

`` You should do that soothsaying homework, '' Amanda said, `` You know, the one where we predict what happens to us future Midweek. ``

`` Already did it, '' Saint John the Apostle announced.

Albus, Matt, and Amanda all stared in shock at John. John never ever did homework early. He was always the one finishing the last job of an essay as the teacher took attendance.

`` What ? '' John shrugged, `` I occasionally do stuff before it 's due. ``

`` No, actually, you do n't, '' flatness smirked.

`` Divination 's dissimilar. It 's fun to make up misrepresent prognostication. ``

`` So what 's happening to you succeeding Wednesday ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I 'm going to come apart my cervix when I fall off my broom. ``

`` John, you do n't even play Quidditch, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Trelawney wo n't care. ``

Albus personally thought it was a wastefulness of metre to come up with phony foretelling for Divination, but that was probably why he had n't signed up for the class.

`` Oh, did we ever tell you what Balladanis 's boggart was ? '' John asked Albus and Matt.

`` Nope, '' Matt said.

Amanda burst out laughing. `` You 're going to love this. ``

`` Yeah, '' John grinned, `` When the two of you left, the boggart got a bit blur because no one was standing that close to it. Everyone was whispering and not paying an ounce of attending to it, so Balladanis stepped in front of it and you 'll never opine what it turned into ! ``

`` A werewolf ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` No, but that would take been funny, too, '' lav laughed, `` Anyway, it turned into a woman. ``

`` A woman ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` Yeah, '' John said, `` A tall, skinny, pale faced woman. Her skin was as pale as Linda 's. Her haircloth was a bit light-headed, but still a dark brown. The woman just form of walked over to Balladanis with a smile on her look. She was kind of pretty in an odd sort of way. ``

`` Now that is weird, '' Albus replied, `` Why in the name of pigeon hawk would he be afraid of women ? ``

`` Maybe it was a particular adult female, '' lustrelessness pointed out.

That would make more sense. After all, flatness was n't afraid of all men. His boggart had turned into a specific man. But Albus did think it was variety of odd that Balladanis, the stern man who hated iniquity Arts, would be afraid of a witch. Albus would have thought he 'd be afraid of some sorting of scary dark creature.

`` Who do you consider she was ? '' Matt asked.

John the Divine shrugged. `` His wife ? ``

Albus smirked. `` Well, that would be funny story. ``

`` My dad jokes that he 's afraid of my mum at meter, '' John replied, `` But I doubt his boggart would deform into her. ``

`` Maybe she 's some sort of dark Wiccan that he 's faced in the yesteryear, '' Amanda suggested.

`` in effect cerebration ! '' flatness agreed, `` Maybe she was a destruction feeder. ``

`` I do n't bonk if he fought in the War or not, though, '' Albus said, `` My dad 's never mentioned his name before and he does n't really seem like the kind of bloke to just ride out in the desktop, does he ? ``

`` I guess not, '' Matt replied, `` She could still be an malign witch, though. ``

`` That does make the most good sense, '' John Lackland said, `` She must be really evil. I mean, Balladanis does n't appear like he 'd be afraid of anything. ``

`` Everyone 's afraid of something, '' Albus pointed out, `` But yeah, she must be immorality. ``

`` What did Balladanis do to make her good story ? '' mat asked.

`` Turned her into some sort of statue, '' Gospel According to John answered, `` It was foreign, like she was petrified. She just froze in stead. And then Balladanis banished it to the trunk. ``

`` How is that funny ? '' Albus asked.

`` No idea, '' John shrugged, `` Just adds to the mystery that is Balladanis. ``

`` I 'm still not for certain I like him, '' Matt commented.

`` Me, neither, '' Albus agreed.

`` But hey, at least he did n't hold us any prep on the first day, '' toilet pointed out.

******

The succeeding day Albus found himself yet again sitting in the back of the Defense schoolroom in between matt and lavatory. Malfoy kept turning around in his seat and smirking at Matt. Albus was glaring at him, silently daring him to say anything about mat 's experience with the boggart.

Balladanis stormed into the way a few min later in a way that reminded Albus of Washburn. The class immediately quieted down and Malfoy faced forward in his seat. Balladanis quickly ran through attendance and then stared at his students.

`` Well, some of you were successful with last class 's boggart, '' Balladanis began, `` However, there were quite a few of you who were n't. ``

Malfoy yet again turned around and looked at Matt, this clip unable to suffocate his laughter.

`` Quiet, Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis growled, `` Five degree from Slytherin. ``

Albus could n't help but grin at that. At least Balladanis was n't favoring Slytherin.

`` Therefore, we will continue battling the boggart until you all have succeeder with the spell, '' Balldanis continued, `` I do not require any of you to slue through the wisecrack and skate through this class on the tails of more than successful scholarly person. That may work while at Hogwarts, but the moment you get out into the real public, it will abruptly end. Without a BASIC knowledge of defensive attitude spells, you will meet an prematurely end at the hands of dark virtuoso. ``

This teacher was making it seem like they were in the midst of a war. Albus knew it was significant to be capable to defend yourself, but he thought Balladanis was acting like everyone was out to get you. It kind of reminded him of what his parents, auntie, and uncles had said about Mad-Eye Moody.

`` iniquity necromancer love finding victims with little knowledge of defensive attitude magical spell. The pupil who skirt by with acceptable fool and just barely make it each examination, without really understanding anything. They also love the great unwashed who read book after Book and sham to realise everything. And while these hoi polloi may accept a wide noesis of defensive spells, they may not have the acquirement necessary to perform them, '' Balldanis 's eyes rested on rosebush and Linda.

`` I want everyone in this elbow room to have to a greater extent than the staple skill needed to perform defensive attitude accomplishment. I want everyone to be capable to amount off better in a duel. I want everyone to be capable to defend themselves against gloomy brute and genius alike.

`` Starting with the boggart, I will not rest until every student is capable of performing every charm we learn in this class. I will assign supernumerary lessons to those I deem it necessary. You will get along in for extra help. I do not manage if it interferes with society or Quidditch recitation. Quidditch will be of minuscule assistant when you are facing a obscure wizard or creature.

`` Stand up ! '' Balladanis ordered. The class scrambled to their invertebrate foot and Balladanis moved the desks aside.

`` Sir ! '' Malfoy called out, `` What if we 've already had succeeder with the boggart ? ``

`` Then you 'll do it again, '' Balladanis replied, `` recitation makes perfective. ``

The socio-economic class lined up in front of the luggage compartment. Albus and his Quaker wound up being in the backbone, and Albus did n't opine Matt minded this in the to the lowest degree. He looked very spooky at the prospect of seeing the Lubar boggart again and Albus could n't blame him.

The line moved much faster this clock time than the live on year. Everyone who had had problem with the boggart during the previous class seemed to do a safe job this time.

Albus stepped forward once it was his number and the boggart once again turned into Oteski, who told him he did not make the team. Albus vaguely wondered what the boggart would work into after the try-out, if they battled it after that. He shouted the while and moved to the side to stand future to rosebush and Amanda.

toilet was following and battled his clown boggart in the same way he had the other day. He stepped to the side and flatness walked slowly towards the boggart.

`` Two Galleons says he runs again, '' Malfoy whispered in Albus 's ear.

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus and John said at the same time.

The boggart once again turned into Lubar and Matt slowly raised his baton, which was shaking.

`` R-R-Ridikkulus, '' mat whispered. nothing happened and the boggart advanced towards Matt.

`` Louder, '' Balladanis told him.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' Matt shouted. Still cypher. His wand arm was shaking even harder.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' he shouted once again.

This time, the boggart spun around and when it stopped, Lubar was decked out in a disastrous and White River striped prison outfit with a nut and chain attached to his right leg.

`` Looks like you owe us two Galleons, '' Saint John smirked at Malfoy.

`` Not a chance, Brickston, '' Malfoy growled.

`` full job, '' Albus grinned as Matt joined the group.

Balladanis already had the boggart shut in the trunk when Albus looked back at his teacher.

`` That 's plenty for today, '' Balladanis announced. `` You, '' he pointed at matte, `` semen see me. ``

matte glanced at Albus and then walked slowly towards Balldanis as the rest of the course of instruction left the room. Albus and his admirer lingered near the door, but Balladanis gestured for them to leave. They reluctantly left, but waited just outside the doorway.

`` What did he need ? '' Albus asked once mat exited the room.

`` I have to go in for spear carrier supporter, '' matte groaned, `` Until I can front the boggart successfully. ``

`` But you were successful, '' trick pointed out.

`` Not successful enough for Balladanis. ``

`` Somehow, I do n't conceive anyone would be successful enough for him, '' Rose muttered.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` That was some speech he gave at the showtime of class. ``

Albus still did n't make out what to think of their new defense team professor. He seemed very strict and Albus did n't really feel well-to-do with him, but on the other handwriting, he seemed very knowledgeable in defensive attitude spells. Albus had a feeling they 'd get word a lot from him, and even though they were n't involved in a war at the present moment, Albus knew United States Department of Defense skill were always important to have. That 's what his father had told him ever since he could remember. Albus had grown up knowing the demand for defense against the dark arts. He just had never had it taught to him in such a emphatic strict way.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The remainder of the week went by quickly. Albus spent all his superfluous clip on the Quidditch pitch, trying to hone his skills for the try-outs on Saturday. Unfortunately, the Slytherin Quidditch squad booked the pitch all Fri evening, so Albus was unable to cram in a last minute practice session.

Instead, Albus sat in the common room with the relaxation of his friends, trying to write an essay for Transfiguration Day. He was supposed to research a noted Animagi and indite a foot long essay about him or her. Albus had wanted to drop a line about his grandfather, but given the fact that Prongs 's Animagus status had been a secluded, Albus did n't reckon such an essay would work. So, Albus eventually decided to write about McGonagall. He had a feel half the class would pen about her.

`` What are McGonagall 's markings ? '' John asked, proving Albus 's theory.

`` Spectacle marks around her eyes, '' Albus answered as he stared at his mostly blank bit of parchment.

`` Thanks, '' John grinned, `` You just saved me xv minutes of research. ``

`` No problem, '' Albus replied. He was n't sure why the essay was taking him so long. He knew a groovy mass about McGonagall and her Animagus capableness. He supposed he just had his judgement on other things, like the Quidditch try-outs.

`` How can she even concentrate on her studying ? '' rose wine sighed loudly.

`` Who ? '' Albus asked.

`` Linda team spirit, '' Rose muttered, with a hint of contempt in her phonation, `` Just tone at her. ``

Albus turned around and saw Linda sitting at a table with a clustering of Good Book and parchment strewn about it. There was quite a crew of male child surrounding her, including Bilius, Ethan, James, Ben, Cedric, Nathan, and a few second years Albus did n't sleep together the public figure of. They all seemed to be talking at once while Linda had her eye fixed on one of the books.

`` wellspring, from what you 've said, she 's so freakishly smart she does n't require to consider, '' Kaden said.

`` Humph, '' pink wine huffed, `` Everyone needs to hit the books. ``

`` I think you 're jealous, Rose, '' Albus smirked.

`` Am not, '' rosiness replied.

`` I wonder what billet she plays, '' John mused.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` Position. You know, in Quidditch, '' trick explained, `` She must be on the Australian team. Since she 's our age, she ca n't be on the dueling team. ``

`` quester, '' rosebush said.

`` How do you make out ? '' Albus asked.

`` Karina asked her one day in the dormitory, '' rose wine explained.

`` Who 's a searcher ? '' Matt dropped his bag onto the table and sat down in the chair next to Albus.

`` Linda Morales, '' Albus told him, `` How was your boggart lesson ? ``

`` Wyrd, '' lustrelessness replied, `` Balladanis was n't stern like he is in division. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden gaped, `` I do n't think I could think him not strict. ``

`` Yeah. I would n't say he was nice, but he did n't act like he does in class. ``

`` What did he do ? '' bathroom asked.

`` Well, I walked in and he was sitting at his desk. So I walked up to him and he got up and went over to the trunk. He did n't say much, just told me to struggle the boggart. And then I did. Over and over again until I thought I was going to go mad. ``

`` That sounds like Balladanis, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` I know, '' Matt replied, `` I 'm getting there. Anyway, eventually he told me I could stop over. Then he told me to sit down and that he wanted to talk to me. He basically told me the same thing he told everyone in class the other day. But he changed it a bit. ``

lusterlessness lowered his voice. `` He said that the point of Defense class was n't only to larn how to fend for ourselves against the drab arts. He said it 's also to teach us why the dark art are so frightful. He then went on to tell me that it was especially crucial for me to know that. ``

`` That is Wyrd, '' Albus said quietly, `` You do n't believe he said that because of, well, you know. ``

`` Yeah, I think he did, '' mat replied, `` But he did n't say it in a mean way or anything. It was just really really odd. ``

`` I 'll say, '' St. John the Apostle agreed, `` Do you have to go there again ? ``

`` Unfortunately, yes, '' matt muttered, `` He wants me to go every Friday until he says I do n't have got to anymore. ``

`` How did it go with the boggart, though ? '' rose asked.

`` I thought it went ok. I mean, I 'm doing good than I was. But he still wants me to go in for supernumerary help. ``

`` wellspring, '' Kaden said after a few moments, `` This just proves that Balladanis is a very very strange teacher. ``

******

Albus awoke riddled with nerves the next break of the day. It reminded him of the nervus he had only one year ago prior to the Gryffindor team try-outs. Only this was ten clip worse. He felt like he 'd deplete a few hot pygmy puffs and they were bouncing around his belly trying to escape.

Try-outs were to be held shortly after lunch and Albus spent all morning talking with his fellow Gryffindor mate in the green way. GA spent over an minute talking about the strengths and weaknesses of the other people who would be trying out. Albus only sorting of paid care. The rest of the team seemed excited and not nearly as flighty as Albus. Albus thought Saint James was favorable ; he was only competing against Lisa Galivant of Hufflepuff and Miranda Corner of Ravenclaw, as Slytherin was getting a new seeker that year.

Albus sat with his team at luncheon, although he did n't eat much. Georgia continued talking about everything they 'd need to acknowledge for the try-outs. The other Gryffindors kept coming up to him and wishing him fate. All Albus could manage to do was nod and mutter 'thanks'.

In an elbow grease to stay fresh order on the Quidditch tar, the headmaster had banned the rest of the student from watching the try-outs. Albus was very grateful of this and was form of relieved when Georgia finally announced that they should pass on for the pitch. Albus 's supporter wished him luck and he left the Great foyer following James.

The walk to the pitch was muted. Peach State had stopped her running commentary on the strategy of the rest of the Hogwarts Quidditch player and everyone else seemed to substantiate they were more flighty than they thought.

Albus took a deep breathing space as he entered the pitch and adjusted his broom on his shoulder. He tried to cerebrate positive cerebration and followed his team onto the slant. Then, he stopped in his tracks and felt his jaw drop to the ground.

Standing in the center of the pitching, next to professor Oteski, Longbottom, Slughorn, Patil, and Polo, was none former than Teddy lupine. Standing with shimmy and the professor were King Oliver Wood and President Tyler Pike, the Head Boy from Albus 's first year.

`` What 's shift doing here ? '' James whispered.

`` No idea, '' Albus whispered back, wondering the same thing. Why was teddy bear there ? He had n't mentioned anything over the summer about doing anything at Hogwarts that year.

Albus stood with his team and looked at the eternal sleep of the educatee who were trying out. The Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff participant were already there. Amongst the Ravenclaws were Kate Waverly, the Keeper ; Natalie cable, Damien Waverly, and Dan Burke, the Chasers ; Zack Valentino and Allie John Davys, the Beaters ; Miranda recession, the quester. Their entire team was trying out, like the Gryffindor squad.

The Hufflepuffs had a few less players trying out. Their Keeper, Tanner Royce was there, along with Anna Reilly and Shawn Ames, the pursuer. One of their Beaters, Andy Kaper was there. Albus remembered that their other Beater had graduated the previous year. Lisa Galivant, their seeker, was there as well, looking determined.

The Slytherins showed up a few minutes later. Leading them was their new captain, Ferris Fielding, who was a pursuer. His fellow Chasers were Peyton Haines and Hailey Odele. Their remaining Beater, Talan flint, glared at the Gryffindor team as he walked by.

prof Oteski gazed around the pitch and then looked at his picket. He said something to the four heads of houses and then cleared his throat. Albus stopped watching the Slytherins and turned to Oteski.

`` I think everyone 's here now, '' Oteski began, `` First, I want to insert you to your capitulum master and your Assistant police captain. Oliver Wood, formerly of Puddlemere United, has agreed to captain the team. ``

There was a very flash round of hand clapping and a few whistling from the crowd of students. Albus grinned and clapped until the applause began to quiet down.

`` And your Assistant skipper are former students you probably all commend. Teddy Lupin, onetime Seeker and headwaiter of the Gryffindor team, and Tyler Pike, other Seeker and Captain of the Ravenclaw team will be your Assistant Captains. ``

Albus clapped hard enough to make his hands detriment. He had no idea teddy was going to serve run the Hogwarts team ! shift must have had a firmly time keeping that a enigma over the summer.

`` You will all try out this afternoon and I, along with your captains and heads of business firm will make the decisions tonight. The terminal tilt of the team as well as the reservation players will be posted in your common rooms recently tomorrow.

`` Now, I thought we 'd protrude with the seeker. Everyone else please go sit in the viewpoint. ``

Albus and the vast majority of the crowd drifted towards the stall. King James I, Lisa, and Miranda remained in the pitch. Miranda was a third year and Lisa was a fourth year. Albus thought James had a pretty unspoilt probability of making the team. He had beaten both of the former Seekers numerous times.

Albus paid some attention to Henry James 's try-out, but mostly he was thinking about his own try-out. Eventually, Henry James and the former searcher finished and Oteski called for the Keepers. Georgia practically ran down to the pitching, followed by the former two Keepers. Albus watched and he was pretty confident Sakartvelo would make the team as well. After Georgia returned with a vast smiling on her face, Oteski called the Beaters down. Albus 's cousin, Bradley, as well as Ryan O'Malley did well with their try-out, but so did the former Beaters.

Finally, Oteski announced for the pursuer to insert the pitch. Albus stood up with his cousins, Heather and Fred, and walked nervously down to the pitch. Teddy flashed him a grin as he entered the pitch.

There were ten former pursuer besides Albus ; the tough opportunity of all the military position to get a spot on the team.

`` Ok, I want everyone to fly around the pitch shot a few sentence, '' Oliver woods announced.

Albus mounted his broom and flew into the air. His nerves seemed to calm down as he felt the malarky blowing against his fount. Just think of it as another Quidditch catch, he thought as he flew amongst the other Chaser hopefuls.

The thought of try-outs being like a Quidditch compeer carried Albus through the whole try-out. He was still nervous and did dangle a few Quaffles, but all in all, it was n't as bad as he thought it would have been. The residue of the Chasers had dropped a few Quaffles as well. Albus still was n't sure he 'd make the team, but at least he had n't made a motley fool of himself.

`` Everyone did great, '' Oliver Sir Henry Wood said at the end of the try-out, `` We 'll cook our decision and post the team leaning tomorrow. I 'll be seeing some of you really soon. ``

The group started to dissolve and Teddy made his way towards the Gryffindor team.

`` Teddy ! '' Peach State shouted, `` I ca n't think you might be my police chief again ! How in the name of Merlin did you keep this a cloak-and-dagger ? ``

Teddy shrugged. `` Honestly, I 'm not even sure. I guess I kind of care knowing something you lot did n't. ``

Georgia groaned. `` Oh, shut it, teddy. ``

`` You all did really well, though, '' Teddy grinned.

`` Yeah, but there 's so many other Chasers, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Al, even if you do n't establish it, you 're a glorious Chaser and you 'll still have the family Quidditch. That 's still going on during this whole thing. ``

`` Oi, slip ! '' Tyler motorway called, `` Get a relocation on, we 've got to discuss the squad ! ``

`` I 'll see you later, Al, everyone else, '' Teddy waved as he left.

Albus left the pitch with the rest of his squad, who were all talking animatedly about the high spot of the try-outs. Albus was thrilled that Teddy was going to be one of the captains and it made him desire for a spot on the squad even more than he had before.

Albus and the eternal rest of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were greeted by raucous clapping when they returned to the usual room. Albus thought it was form of premature, since none of them were actually on the team yet, but it was still nice. rose wine, lustrelessness, and Amanda were sitting at their usual table and Albus went over to them.

`` How was the try-out ? '' Matt asked immediately.

`` Better than I thought, '' Albus replied as he sat down, `` I think I have a flimsy chance of making it. ``

`` That 's good, '' Matt grinned.

`` Oh, and shimmy 's one of the maitre d'hotel ! '' Albus told them.

`` Really ? '' Rose said, `` Who are the others ? ``

`` Tyler Pike, the Head Boy from our first year, and Oliver Wood- ''

`` John is going to be thrilled when he finds that out, '' Matt interrupted.

Albus grinned. King Oliver Wood had gone to Slughorn 's Noel party in their first class and John had given him a Quaffle to sign. John the Divine was a big supporter of Joseph Oliver Mrs. Henry Wood and Puddlemere United.

`` Where is whoremaster anyway ? '' Albus asked, `` And Kaden ? ``

`` In the predator 's Den, '' Matt answered, `` Plotting. They 're planning on swimming in the lake tomorrow with the Giant squid. ``

`` I 'm rather afraid of what sorting of plotting they 're doing, '' Rose muttered, `` If swim requires plotting, zero undecomposed will fare of it. ``

`` I take it you three do n't desire to join them ? '' Albus laughed.

`` Definitely not, '' Amanda said.

`` Are you insane, Albus ? '' rosiness raised her eyebrow, `` Of course not. ``

`` Nope, '' matte shook his head, `` I 'd rather not get in hassle this soon into the year. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't require to either. '' Albus and his admirer had gotten into quite a bit of trouble, mostly because of Kaden, the previous year and Albus was hoping he 'd observe Filch 's hold to a lower limit this year.

`` The two of them are going to be in detention more often than they 're not, '' blush wine muttered.

`` That would n't surprise me, '' Albus replied. toilet had always been the trouble-maker of Albus 's group, even before Kaden entered the scenery. And then when Kaden had arrived, zip was going to stop him. Now John had someone to conspire with for all of his wicked schemes.

******

Although Albus and Matt flat out refused to float in the lake with John and Kaden, the two puckish male child managed to convince them to at least watch by the side of the lake. However, Rose and Amanda refused to be anywhere near the lake when this took place. pink wine insisted that she needed to give the day to studying and Amanda decided to conjoin her. Albus had a feeling Rose 's increased sum of money of studying had a lot to do with Linda team spirit, but knew beneficial than to mention this to his cousin.

privy and Kaden walked excitedly ahead of Albus and mat on their way out of the castle the next day. Albus still had no idea what exactly they were planning on doing, and for that he was grateful. If John Lackland and Kaden got caught, Albus preferred to not have intercourse anything about it, so he could deny his involvement.

There were a few scholarly person sitting around the lake enjoying the warm lately summer day when the son arrived. Albus and lustrelessness chose a spot underneath a large beech tree diagram and sat back to watch the effect unfold.

Saint John and Kaden grinned at each other and then pulled off their shirts and shoes, so they were only wearing shorts. A few first year girl who were sitting near Albus and mat giggled and began whispering to each other. Albus turned to Matt and rolled his eyes. Matt stifled a laugh.

`` This is n't going to end well, '' Albus said.

`` But it will be entertaining to watch, '' Matt laughed.

St. John the Apostle and Kaden began to obnoxiously stretch by the edge of the water. Albus had a tactual sensation they were doing it only to try and gain the attention of the few scholarly person who were n't watching them. following, they bent down to the water and felt the temperature.

`` Bloody hell ! '' John shouted, `` It 's freezing ! ``

`` That means we 'll just jump right in ! '' Kaden announced. He turned around and walked away, and then took a running start into the lake. He landed with a trashy splash that soaked John, who was still standing by the edge.

`` They 're mad, '' Albus grinned.

`` All right field, here it goes ! '' whoremonger shouted and followed Kaden into the H2O, `` Merlin, that 's moth-eaten ! ``

Albus laughed as John and Kaden got used to the water system. The two of them were flailing around and shrieking like picayune girls. They had gained quite a few on-lookers who were standing around the lake laughing their top dog off.

Albus may not accept wanted to do something this crazy himself, but he was having a honest time watching his ally do it. The two of them got used to the water and then began swimming around.

However, merely swimming in the blackness Lake was n't that exciting. Albus knew they had something else up their sleeves ( or lack thereof ) and it was only a affair of metre until they put their design into action.

john and Kaden were just beginning to have a contest to see who could remain submersed the tenacious when a long tentacle appeared out of the water a few invertebrate foot behind them.

`` Ooo ! '' a female child shouted, `` It 's the squid ! ``

Both John and Kaden turned around. `` Yes ! '' they both shouted at the Lapplander time, `` The calamari has arrived ! ``

Albus watched as John and Kaden swam towards the tentacle, wondering what variety of torment they were going to visit upon the calamary. He did n't think the calamari was particularly unsafe, but who knew what it would do if it was provoked.

John and Kaden treaded urine on either side of the tentacle and then began to tickle it. This earned a clump of loud gasps and More hysteric laugh from the crowd.

A few more of the calamary 's tentacles appeared out of the body of water and two of them smacked John and Kaden on their heads.

`` Hey ! '' John shouted and pushed the tentacle away.

Then, the calamary 's head emerged from the surface of the weewee. A few of the immature girls who were watching began to shrill and the onetime bookman laughed even harder. Albus was laughing and shaking his head at the same prison term. He could n't avail but laugh at his friends'stupidity. They should induce known that the calamary would try and tickle back. And it had more munition than john and Kaden combined.

John and Kaden grinned at each other and then float towards the binding of the squid as it rose out of the water supply. They grabbed onto its back and began to ride it. Albus gaped as the calamari began to swim around with John Lackland and Kaden on top of it. The two of them had actually decided to hinge on the Giant Squid.

`` They 're retard, '' flatness commented.

Albus nodded as the squid swam closer and closer to the shore. The onlookers retreated and scattered as it drew nearer. King John and Kaden both looked thrilled, until the squid propelled them onto the shoring. They landed in the supergrass and the calamari returned into the murky depths of the lake.

Albus jumped up and ran towards whoremaster and Kaden, followed by matt. He squeezed his way through the bunch and looked down at his two friends.

`` Urgh, '' John groaned as he sat up, rubbing his head.

`` That was incredibly stupid, '' Albus grinned, `` And very hold. ``

`` Let 's do it again ! '' Kaden said excitedly as he examined his arm, which was bleeding.

`` How can you actually want to do it again when the squid threw you five infantry into the air ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` It was fun, '' Kaden shrugged.

`` move aside ! '' a female voice shouted.

The crowd immediately dispersed and people ran towards the castle and to former country of the grounds.

Albus looked up and saw Professor Patil striding towards them. Albus groaned. He knew they would n't get away with this.

`` I 've just been informed that the two of you were riding the Giant calamary ! '' Patil shouted at John and Kaden, `` Is that true ? ``

`` Er- '' bathroom began.

`` Well ... '' Kaden said.

`` Of course it is ! '' Patil replied, `` search at you ! I 'm very disappointed ! I thought it was a given not to swim in that lake and the fact that you provoked the calamary ... '' she shook her question, `` Well, you two will need to go to the hospital flank and then I 'll assign you detention. ``

John and Kaden stood up and nodded. The thrill that had been on their faces just instant before, was completely gone.

`` And what about you two ? '' Patil said to Albus and mat, `` Were you involved ? I see you 're both dry, but I 've noticed that the four of you are always getting in problem together. ``

`` They did n't do it, Professor, '' Kaden announced.

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` They did n't even experience what we were going to do. ``

Albus felt a surge of gratitude for his friends, especially Kaden. Just a year ago, Kaden had been getting all four of them in worry for things only he had done. Now, he was actually telling instructor that Albus was n't involved. True, Albus had n't been involved, but it was the principle of it.

Patil nodded. `` All right. Mr. Brickston, Mr. Dursley, you 'll involve to adopt me. Mr. Potter and Mr. Eckerton, you may give back to your usual room. ``

Albus did n't need to be told twice. He and Matt took off towards the castle and once they were out of earreach of Patil, started talking about John and Kaden 's adventure.

`` I think the two of them could bingle handedly cause the death of the stallion palace, '' Albus laughed.

`` It 's only a matter of when they 'll do it, '' Matt smirked, `` Let 's see, Kaden 's already tormented the Whomping Willow, and now they 've tormented the hulk calamary. What 'll be next ? ``

`` Filch 's new cat ? '' Albus suggested.

`` Filch would roll in the hay that, '' mat replied.

At some point in between the end of the finally class and the starting signal of this one, Filch had obtained another cat. Albus had heard write up about his previous cat, Mrs. Norris, from his parents, aunts, and uncles, but had never actually met her. She had died before Albus was born. Apparently Filch had been so overcome by sorrow that he had n't gotten another one, until now.

The new cat, Josie, was a young sprightly kitten, whose only resemblance to Mrs Norris was her unearthly ability to locate students who were breaking prescript. All the student took an contiguous dislike to Josie and turned in the former centering when they saw her small orange body emerge from around the corner.

People were already talking about King John and Kaden 's swimming in the lake when Albus and Matt entered the Gryffindor coarse room. Albus had a notion it would be weeks before anyone forgot about it.

Albus and lusterlessness spotted Rose and Amanda and sat down at their tabular array. It was spread with numerous al-Qur'an and pealing of lambskin and flight feather. The only former table that rivaled its amount of money of al-Qur'an was the one Linda Morales was sitting at.

`` I take it you 've heard about John the Evangelist and Kaden 's incident with the squid ? '' Albus asked.

`` Bits and firearm, '' Rose muttered without looking up.

Albus and Matt launched into the entire story and Amanda was in stitches by the time they finished.

`` Those two are going to be expelled if they 're not careful, '' rosebush said as she frantically scribbled something onto a cast of parchment.

Albus looked curiously at his cousin-german. Rose had always been a stickler for prep, but never had he seen her this obsessed with it unless it was mightily before the end of full term exams. And this was only the first week of school.

`` Rose, why do n't you take a suspension ? '' Albus suggested. He was actually kind of distressed about her. Studying was ripe, but too much was kind of unhealthy.

`` Ca n't, '' Rose muttered, `` My Potions essay is only a roll and a one-half of parchment. ``

Albus gaped at her, `` Rose, you do recognize that Slughorn only wants a half a axial rotation, right ? ``

blush wine nodded. `` Yeah, but Janie said that Linda 's essay is already two coil. So I 've got to attain mine at to the lowest degree that long. ``

`` Rose, '' Albus sighed, `` Your essay does n't have got to be longsighted than Linda 's. ``

`` Yes, it does, '' Rose insisted.

Albus sighed and sat back in his president. He knew it was a lost cause. His cousin had that determined look in her heart and Albus knew there was no convincing her that she did n't have to be so free-enterprise with Linda.

`` I think she work so much because she does n't really have any Friend here, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` What ? '' Albus looked at her incredulously. At any given moment, Linda was surrounded by at least five other people. She was easily the most popular of all the Aboriginal Australian students. `` Look at her ! She 's got eight people talking to her at once ! ``

Amanda groaned. `` They 're not her Quaker. They just think she 's pretty. She does n't even want them around. They do all the talking. All she does is sit there and study. Plus, ever notice how she 's never around any of the early Australian students ? ``

Albus looked at Linda again. Amanda was right. Linda was n't actually talking to any of the students around her. And come to call up of it, he had n't seen her talk to any of the early Aboriginal Australian students either. `` wonder why that is ? ``

Amanda shrugged. `` Well, all the other Australian students are a lot elderly than her. All her ally are probably still in Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` She could befriend any of those blokes near her, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Again, they 're only there because they think she 's pretty, '' Amanda sighed, `` But she 's really really quiesce. Her first of all dark here, she did n't say a word in the student residence. Now, Janie 's really the only one she talks to. I mean, being shy is one affair, but never talking at all ? ``

Albus turned to Linda once again. It was kind of odd for her never to talk to anyone, besides the teachers. It was like the sole affair she wanted to do was study. Her fixation with homework seemed to be ten clock time that of Rose 's and Albus was n't for sure if Rose could keep up.


A/N : Big thanks to PotterCast for giving me the theme for the giant squid incident ! The deed for this chapter was also made up by PotterCast. It 's used in one of their consultation with J.K. Rowling podcasts.

As usual, thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awe-inspiring people who have read and reviewed this level !

Also, I am yet again doing NaNoWriMo, so if I 'm ever late on updates or seeming to claim a foresightful time to do reviews, that 's why !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Saint John and Kaden returned to the rough-cut room an hour or so later, completely healed and scolded. They had a week 's Worth of hold with Filch and l points taken from Gryffindor. The other Gryffindors had been congratulating trick and Kaden on their heart and stupidity until they heard about the points. After that, whoremonger and Kaden were glared at and ignored by their house-mates.

The boys joined rose wine and Amanda in their poring over once the excitement died down. All of the son had neglected their homework over the weekend.

Albus tried to concentrate on his Potions essay, but he could n't. The list of who made the Hogwarts Quidditch team was going to be up within the side by side few 60 minutes. Albus kept stealing glance at the content board as if the inclination would suddenly appear there.

It did n't help that respective members of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were coming up to Albus and trying to get his persuasion of whether they made the team or not. How was he supposed to jazz if they made the team ? He was the youngest one trying out. If anyone was going to be asking about whether they made the squad, it should be Albus.

Would it even be that bad if Albus did n't take it ? He was n't sure. He did require to stool the team. He wanted that more than anything, but at the same time, he knew it was going to be a lot of work and quite nerve wracking. It would be a giving deal than playing for Gryffindor, that was for certainly. The integral school would be watching his chasing acquirement and hoping he would win. Albus loved playing Quidditch, but if he was fair with himself, he did n't like a entirely lot of people watching him. Making the Hogwarts team would ensure that hundreds of citizenry would be watching him.

Albus managed to write about half his essay before dinner, but he did n't retrieve it was very serious. Oh, well, he thought. One failed essay would n't matter in the long run.

He went down to dinner with his acquaintance, but did n't participate much in their conversations. In fact, he was probably as pipe down as Linda.

Albus glanced up at the faculty table. His eye rested upon Professor Oteski, who was deep in conversation with a grey-haired Auror who had been assigned to patrol Hogwarts for the week. Oteski had probably already decided on the team. Albus hoped he 'd hurry up and mail the list.

`` Albus ! '' Georgia nearly collided with Albus on his trek back up to the Gryffindor common elbow room after dinner, `` The list is posted ! '' Sakartvelo turned around and sprinted back to the mutual room.

Albus took a bass breath and his heart sped up. This was it, he thought. Within a few proceedings, he 'd make out whether he made the team or not.

There was a large gang around the message table when Albus entered the room. James burst out of the crew with a immense grin on his face.

`` I made it ! '' he shouted, `` I 'm the Hogwarts seeker ! ``

The entire common way flare-up into applause. Albus grinned through his brass and patted his buddy on the back.

`` What about me ? '' Albus whispered to James IV, `` Did I make it ? ``

`` flavor for yourself, '' King James grinned and pushed him towards the subject matter board.

`` I do n't think I can, '' Albus sighed. This was worse than last year when he tried out for the Gryffindor team.

`` You have to, '' John insisted.

Albus took a thick breathing time and squeezed his way through the crowd. He closed his center and then stared at the list.

Keeper- Peach State Weasley, Gryffindor, 7th year.

That did n't surprise Albus in the least. In fact, he would cause been shocked if GA had n't made the team. No wonder she looked so aroused when she ran into Albus.

Chaser- Damien Waverly, Ravenclaw, 7th year.
Chaser- Anna Reilly, Hufflepuff, 7th year.
Chaser- Ferris fielding, Slytherin, 7th year.

Albus felt a wave of letdown overcome him. He had n't made it. All the early pursuer were seventh years, and captains of their respective sign squad at that. Why had he thought he 'd be capable to compete with them ?

He continued to understand the list. There were still the reserve players after all.

Beater- Andy Kaper, Hufflepuff, 5th year.
Beater- Allie Davis, Ravenclaw, 4th year.

So, James was n't going to be the alone one who was n't a one-seventh twelvemonth on the team. That was good. But still, near of the team were seventh old age. All the team skipper made the team. That made sense. As maitre d', they were most likely the best Quidditch thespian in the school.

Seeker- Jesse James Potter, Gryffindor, 4th year.

Reserve player

Keeper- Kate Waverly, Ravenclaw, 5th year.

Kate would be happy, Albus thought. She had been Albus 's dueling captain last yr. She was squeamish and Albus was felicitous she at least got to be the taciturnity Keeper.

Chaser- Hailey Odelle, Slytherin, 7th year.
Chaser- Albus thrower, Gryffindor, 3rd year.

Albus gaped at the leaning. He blinked and read it again, just to cook surely his oculus were working properly. They were. He, Albus Severus Potter, was one of the substitute Chasers ! Suddenly, the dashing hopes was gone and Albus felt as glad as he would have if he made the regular team. stockpile was proficient than nothing after all. Plus, there would n't be as much pressure.

Beater- Talan flint, Slytherin, 5th year.
Seeker- Lisa Galivant, Hufflepuff, 4th year.

Albus turned around and walked back to where his brother and friends were gathered.

`` I 'm a reserve Chaser, '' he announced.

`` See ! '' James grinned, `` Told you you 'd make it ! ``

`` Well, I 'm not actually on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Yeah, you are, '' King James I contradicted, `` Did n't you read at the merchantman where it said the reserve players have to go to praxis and everything ? ``

`` Er, no, '' Albus shrugged sheepishly. He had n't noticed much after his own name.

`` Well, that 's what it said, '' William James continued, `` kickoff practice is on Sat. ``

Albus tried to work on on his Potions essay later that evening, but it was no use. The common way was in the midst of a party that usually only followed a spectacular win at Quidditch. Georgia, Epistle of James, and eventually Albus were thrown into the concourse of it and he quickly gave up on his essay. No one else, besides Rose and Linda, was working on prep and Albus figured it would be pointless to even try. Maybe Slughorn would n't have decent time to even get to Albus 's essay due to the length of rosebush 's and Linda's.

******

In fact, the rest of the week was much like that dark in the Gryffindor common way. Albus seemed to attract attention wherever he went. On his way to year, in class, even on his way to the bathroom, people came up to him and congratulated him. pupil who he had never even talked to before were telling him what a splendid Chaser he was. All in all, he was kind of shocked at the wholly thing. It 's not like he was one of the master Chasers on the team.

Albus 's friends were kind of enjoying the whole matter. They were kind of attracting attention by affiliation. whoremonger and Kaden were already known as 'those Gryffindor fella who rode the titan calamary'and now had the bring fame of being some of Albus 's closest Quaker. Rose seemed forgetful to the whole thing and devoted Thomas More time than ever to studying. matt and Amanda seemed to wish they would n't attract so much attention.

Even Lily and Victor-Marie Hugo were attracting tending by being the baby and cousin of the Hogwarts Seeker. Albus 's fame paled in comparison to Saint James the Apostle 's. James had a group of admirers following him all the time. Lily and Hugo told anyone they could that they were the sister and cousin of James. Ashtyn, can 's sister, told everyone she was the Sister of one of the blokes who rode the Giant Squid and that her brother was friends with Albus.

trick and Kaden had nightly detentions with Filch and both boys came back quietly cursing Filch every eve. Apparently the caretaker was as ruthless as ever with his detentions.

The detention was n't the only matter whoremonger earned from his tripper into the lake either. On Monday daybreak, he was blessed with a Howler from his mother. Instead of running into the entranceway residence like most bookman did with their Howlers, John opened it at the Gryffindor table and the integral way, including the teachers, listened to John 's mum shrieking at the top of her lungs about how stupid he had been. lav said it was worth it, though, and was n't fazed at all by the Howler.

Albus was relieved when the week was finally over. He was hoping that the agitation of the Hogwarts Quidditch squad being picked would die down over the weekend.

On Saturday good afternoon, Albus left his friends in the common room and walked with Georgia and James to the Quidditch pitch.

Oliver woodwind instrument, Tyler freeway, and chemise were already there, along with a few of the team members. Albus stood with GA and Saint James the Apostle as they waited for the rest of the team to show up.

`` First, I 'd care to say felicitation, '' Oliver announced once everyone arrived, `` You are now the Hogwarts Quidditch team. I 'm Oliver Wood and I will be your maitre d'. Teddy and Tyler are here to help.

`` Now, I know regular Quidditch is still going on, so we 'll let to exploit around each house 's practice schedules. I 've looked at those and I think Sabbatum afternoon will process best for practice. For now, we 'll get with once a hebdomad practice and increase if necessary.

`` I thought we 'd start by doing a few drills, just so everyone can get used to playing with each other. I know it 'll be an adjustment, since you usually compete against the other houses, not represent on the same team as them. ``

An registration was an understatement, Albus thought. As the practice progressed, it became unmistakable that it was extremely difficult to work with members of other houses. Albus found that it was instinct to try and keep open the Quaffle away from his fellow Chasers rather than to pass it to them.

Wood, Teddy, and President Tyler tried to get everyone to work together, but Albus thought it would drive to a greater extent than one praxis. Everyone was rather subdued by the fourth dimension the practice ended. cypher had been capable to function together, except for James and Lisa. The two of them actually cooperated. But the Chasers and Beaters in particular had a intemperate time working together. Ferris Fielding, Hailey Odelle, and Talan Flint left the pitch muttering about how they could n't work with 'bloody Gryffindors'.

Wood looked ready to scream and throw thing by the time everyone left. He was whispering to shift and Tyler as Albus left with James and Georgia.

`` That was a disaster, '' Georgia groaned on their way back to the castle.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't know how this is going to turn. ``

`` It 's got to work, '' Saint James the Apostle said adamantly, `` I mean, Lisa and I practiced just fine with each other. Why ca n't everyone else ? ``

`` It 's Fielding and Odelle, '' Albus muttered, `` They would n't pass anyone else the Quaffle ! It 's like they 're trying to prove they 're the best Chasers ! ``

`` Well, they 're idiots, then, '' James said, `` And they better stop if they want to actually win this. ``

Albus definitely agreed with that. Henry Fielding and Odelle certainly were n't acting like squad instrumentalist. Fielding had actually pushed Albus out of the way in parliamentary procedure to get the Quaffle before him.

Albus felt rather depressed about the pattern for the quietus of the day. It seemed that the house rivalries really were awful. Albus would be the first to admit that the disliked Slytherin and certainly was n't lining up to turn topper friends with any of them, but he was unforced to put the competition behind him for the sake of the Quidditch tournament. But it did n't seem like many other members of the team wanted to do so.

Luckily for Albus, the fame of being a second-stringer player on the team seemed to minify during the adjacent week. He was capable to catch up on his preparation and spend time with just his Quaker, without anyone else following him.

Of form, spending clock time with Rose was beginning to be pointless. Albus could n't commemorate the lastly time he 'd had a very conversation with her or seen her without a Book outdoors in front of her.

`` rosiness, you 've got to give it a respite, '' Albus said the following Saturday. He was sitting in the common room, killing time before the second Quidditch practice. `` No one can possibly study this much. ``

`` I can, '' rosiness muttered as she read, `` Linda can. She studies at night. I woke up in the centre of the nighttime and saw her reading. I do n't opine she sleeps. I 've heard her sneek out in the middle of the night before. I think she goes into the plebeian room and studies. ``

Albus stared at rosiness. He had never seen her like this. Usually pink wine was rational. `` pink wine, I 'm sober. deal a rift. ``

`` No, '' pink wine said adamantly.

Albus sighed and got up to go to practice. He was really apprehensive about rose. Unfortunately, Quidditch practice did zip to rise his booze. The practice was another disaster.

`` All right hand, all right ! '' Wood shouted and motioned for everyone to fly down.

Albus landed following to Henry James and looked at Wood. He was looking very very stern and determined.

`` We 've had two practices, '' woods began to gait, `` Two practices and you 're still flying like you 're a team comprised of five-year-olds. Five-year-olds who do n't get along. I 'm sick of it. I agreed to captain the team because I thought you 'd be the best of Hogwarts 's Quidditch instrumentalist. The ones who could someday play professionally. But I 've been sorely disappointed.

`` The house rivalries are disrupting your playing. I 've got as much Gryffindor pride as the next Gryffindor, but I would put that aside if I had gotten the chance to do this while I was in schooling. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. You realize that there will be scout for professional teams at these matches ?

`` In real life-time, you 're going to make to work with people you do n't like. So you 'd better get used to it. All I have to say is that if you do n't mould up and put the petty bickering aside, I will not hesitate to kick you off the team. I 'll consecrate you a week to do it. If any of you are still fighting next Sabbatum, you 're off the squad. Practice is over. ``

No one said a watchword as they filed out of the auction pitch. Albus thought Wood 's speech communication had been good. He was honk of the fighting as well. He 'd put the rivalries aside for the saki of Quidditch. After all, Albus was on the Saame dueling team as Scorpio Malfoy and they acted civilly towards each other. Albus wondered if the Australian and New House of York team had had this many outlet with getting along. He had n't watched any of their practices, but Georgia had. She said both squad were incredibly good.

******

`` I ca n't take it anymore ! '' Rose shouted as she slammed her book down on the table, which startled Matt out of his homework and impending total Moon induced slumber.

Albus and his Friend were in the Marauder 's Den, working on the plethora of prep they had been assigned on that item Monday. Albus, who had been watching rose grow steadily more tense up and snappish over the past times few days, knew it was only a matter of time before she cracked.

`` Er, rosebush, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

`` No ! '' rosebush shouted so loudly that flatness winced and rubbed his head. `` I 'm not ok ! I ca n't take it ! I just ca n't ! Nothing I do is estimable enough, nothing ! I just ca n't pose her. She got a mellow grade on that Potions essay and she answered Thomas More questions in Transfiguration today. Not to observe the fact that she does n't face like she 's going to flow asleep at any moment, like lav was so kind to point out about me in the beginning. '' Rose glared at John.

John shrugged. `` Well, you do .... ''

`` I know ! '' Rose shouted.

Albus looked at his cousin. She did look ready to devolve asleep at any here and now. Her eyes had purple cup of tea under them and were bloodshot. Combine that with the fact that she was nearly in split, and she looked amazing. In fact, she looked an awed lot like matte did.

`` rosiness, '' Amanda said quietly, `` You do n't give to bewilder her at everything. ``

`` But I do ! '' rose wine wailed, `` I do n't even know why, but I do ! ``

`` Look, '' Amanda continued, `` She 's from Australia. They might teach poppycock in a different ordering down there. Maybe she 's already learned this. But eventually, we 'll get to something she has n't learned and then maybe she wo n't tucker you. ``

`` Maybe, '' rosiness sighed and poked matt, `` flatness ! Do you know what they 're learning in Australia now ? Amy went there, did she recount you ? ``

Matt groaned and glared at Rose. `` No, how would I know ? Amy went there years ago. '' He stood up and walked slowly over to his bed and collapsed onto it.

`` Did I say something ? '' Rose asked.

Albus sighed, `` You just woke him up. Do you even know what tomorrow is ? ``

`` Tomorrow ? '' Rose asked, `` What 's significant about tomorrow ? Oh, we 've got a denial essay due ! I have to edit mine ! ``

`` No, '' Albus groaned, `` Tomorrow 's the replete moon. ``

pink wine froze. `` Oh, Merlin. I had n't even realized. ``

`` I figured, '' Albus said, `` Listen, you 're not doing anymore prep tonight. ``

`` But I need to edit- ''

`` No, '' Albus said, `` You need a happy chance. ``

`` Albus is right, '' Amanda agreed and took Rose 's batch of al-Qur'an away, `` You 're not studying for the rest of the nighttime. ``

`` Uh, ok, '' Rose smiled nervously, `` I can do that. I mean, what 's the uncollectible that can pass ? ``

pink wine did n't look to know what to do with herself. Albus found it difficult to centralise on his own prep as he watched Rose tread around the room, trying to cypher out something to do. Eventually, she settled on helping Kaden with his Transfiguration Day essay. Albus and Amanda exchanged glance at this, but neither of them said anything since blush wine was n't technically doing any homework. She was merely helping Kaden.

Albus, matt, John, and Kaden wound up spending the night in the Marauder 's Den. Matt had been so sound asleep by the time curfew arrived, that no one wanted to ignite him up nor did anyone wish to go out him there alone. Albus certainly did n't mind. He liked spending the night there. It gave him a sort of connecter with his granddaddy.



A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and all the awful people who have read and reviewed this !

Here 's the Weasley Family tree diagram, to assist everyone stay fresh track of them.
Wealsey-Potter-Dursley Family Tree

Bill-Fleur Charlie-Katherine ( Wiccan ) Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Victoire, 19 Stanley, 18 Empire State of the South, 7th year
Gabriella, 7th class Heather, 6th twelvemonth Omar Nelson Bradley, 5th twelvemonth
Ben, 4th class scar, 5th yr Cedric, 4th twelvemonth
Eddie, 7 days old Samantha & lindy hop ( twins ), 8 old age old

George-Alicia Spinnet Ron-Hermione Ginny-Harry
Fred, 6th class Rose, 3rd year James, 4th year
Angie, 10 years old Victor Hugo, 1st year Albus, 3rdd yr
Lily, 1st twelvemonth

Dudley-Christina ( Muggle )
Kaden- 2nd twelvemonth
Bethany- 8 years old

*all in Gryffindor*


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


blush wine handed in her unedited essay to Balladanis the adjacent morning. Albus did notice her scribbling some stopping point infinitesimal sentences onto it as Balladanis collected the essays.

Defense Against the darkness Arts continued to be the unusual stratum in Albus 's schedule. Balladanis expressed such a unassailable disfavour for the dark arts that he started nearly every year with a bottom lecture about why they were learning justificative spells and why the dark nontextual matter were bad. His optic tended to breathe on matte and for some odd grounds, Linda, whenever he gave these talk and Albus got the feeling it made Matt extremely uncomfortable. Albus could n't find fault him. He certainly would n't want to be under the teacher 's eye like that.

Albus could n't really say whether he enjoyed Balladanis 's form or not. It had been nearly a calendar month since the term started, but Albus still did n't know whether he liked the socio-economic class or not. It was definitely dissimilar than when his dad taught. Balladanis was exacting, but a good teacher.

The rest of the day went by quickly. Albus listened to St. John tease Rose during Herbology since she was fretting about her demurrer essay. ancient runic letter was rather bore and Albus doodled idly on his short letter while lusterlessness fell asleep on his. Charms was rather fun since they worked on cheering Charms and Albus left the way grinning profusely, along with most of the former stratum. matt in particular looked strange with a huge grin across his picket fatigued face.

lustrelessness left for the Shrieking shanty shortly after dinner and Albus went to the Marauder 's Den with his friends where they distracted rosebush from her perusing by playing Wizard 's Chess.

The following day Albus truly began to realize how busy his tierce yr schedule was. For the by two years, he and his supporter almost always had time to travel to lustrelessness in the hospital backstage in between classes. This year, however, they did n't birth time until after dinner. Albus was positively exhausted by that dot, as he had stayed up late workings on homework the night before, and still had Dueling cabaret practice afterwards. Lynley Phil Anderson, the fourth year Hufflepuff who had replaced Kate as captain, had insisted that the whole squad attend that meeting, as it was the start one and there were new irregular years on the team. Kaden was n't put on Albus 's team, but he was put on John 's team, much to the joy of both boys.

Hectic was really the exclusively way to discover Albus 's life at Hogwarts. As September turned into October, it only got busier. Gryffindor Quidditch team exercise picked up again and along with Hogwarts Quidditch practices and Dueling Club exercise, Albus hardly had anytime to rest.

The Hogwarts Quidditch team was shaping up nicely after Sir Henry Joseph Wood 's stern monition during the arcsecond pattern. That and the fact that they now practiced on both Tuesdays and Sat. Even the Slytherin team member were beginning to work together. They did n't really admit their teammates outside of practice, but Albus did n't handle as long as they got along with everyone during practice.

Albus was really starting to enjoy the Hogwarts Quidditch team. He was actually beginning to wish he could represent in the first match, which would be taking property towards the end of October.

`` First Hogsmeade weekend ! '' John said excitedly to Albus one Fri even as Albus was trying to pick up up on his homework. Kaden was standing next to him. Albus guessed they had just returned from Dueling golf-club practice.

`` When ? '' Albus asked without looking up.

`` October 27th, '' John grinned, `` Ca n't hold off ! ``

`` Yeah, it 'll be vivid, '' Albus agreed, hoping he would n't have too often preparation to go.

`` That 's not all, either, '' whoremaster went on, `` There 's a Halloween party that Nox. ``

`` You mean the Halloween feast ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, there 's an literal party ! '' john said, `` But it 's not on Hallowe'en, it 's on the 27th. It 's because of the tourney. So we can mingle with the foreign student. Or at least that 's what the poster on the observance board says. ``

Albus nodded. He really had n't had that much contact with the extraneous student. Sure, he 'd seen them in the corridors and the rough-cut room and stuff, but that was about it. The only one who was around his age was Linda and she still did n't seem to talk to anyone.

`` And, '' St. John continued, `` Costumes are encouraged. ``

`` Costumes ? '' Albus asked, finally looking up.

`` Yeah, costumes, '' John grinned, `` We get to dress up ! This is going to be brilliant ! ``

`` What should we dress up as ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` We 'll figure it out later, '' John said, `` Where 's everyone else ? ``

`` Rose and Amanda are at the library, '' Albus told him, `` And mat 's with Balladanis. ``

`` pigeon hawk, is he ever going to move over up about that boggart ? '' whoremonger asked.

`` Knowing Balladanis, probably not, '' Albus said.

`` Well, let 's go to the library, '' trick announced, `` We 've got to enjoin Rose and Amanda about Hogsmeade. ``

Albus was all too eager to agree to this. He was thoroughly nauseous of trying to catch up on all his preparation. It was good to take a intermission every now and then anyway.

Albus pushed open the door to the program library a little while later, fully expecting to see Rose up to her human elbow in Holy Writ furiously scribbling away on a roll of lambskin that was nearly used up. He gazed around the depository library and he spotted Rose 's bushy red hair and walked towards her table.

blush wine was up to her human elbow in prep. In fact, there were so many books on rosebush and Amanda 's table that you could no longer see the genuine table. What Albus was n't expecting to see was a third person at their table. Linda Morales

Albus stopped short a few feet from the board. He turned to look at John, who looked equally shocked.

`` Is that- '' John began.

`` Linda Morales ? '' Albus gaped. He blinked twice to hold certain he was n't seeing matter. After all, he was quite pall. But even after he blinked, Linda was still sitting across from Rose and Amanda.

All three of the girls were working quietly. In fact, none of them even seemed to notice the others.

Albus slowly walked towards the table and Gospel According to John followed. Albus was n't entirely sure what to say. He had n't had much interaction with Linda. Albus had hardly said how-do-you-do to her since she arrived at Hogwarts. He was n't trying to neglect her or anything ; it had just ended up that way. Linda had n't shown any real interestingness in making protagonist with Albus or any of his champion. Yet here she was, doing homework at the Lapplander board as rosiness of all people. Albus had n't the slightest idea why either.

`` Rose, '' Albus whispered once they arrived at the table.

rose startled and then looked up at Albus. `` What ? I 'm trying to study ! ``

`` Can I talk to you ? '' Albus glanced at Linda, `` Alone ? ``

rose wine sighed loudly. `` Fine, but make it warm. ``

Albus led his cousin over to a desolate area of the subroutine library. John took rosiness 's annul rear end and began to whisper to Amanda about the Hogsmeade visit.

`` All right, what is it ? '' Rose asked once they were alone.

`` Could n't help but notice that you were studying with Linda ... '' Albus 's phonation trailed off. He really did n't sleep with what he wanted to say to climb up about it.

`` Oh, well ... '' rose wine began, `` I guess I just realized I was being stupid in trying to compete with her. ``

Albus smirked, `` Yeah, you were. But I told you that loads of times and you did n't mind. ``

Rose sighed. `` I know. Amanda 's the one who convinced me to kibosh trying to vie with her. She said Linda would fuck a lot about Australian wizarding chronicle and I could learn a lot from her if I stopped with the competition thing. ``

Of course, Albus thought. Appealing to Rose 's love of learning would definitely work. Although he had n't really been trying to have rose wine and Linda become champion. He just wanted Rose to comfort up on the studying.

`` I guess, if you ca n't exhaust 'em, you might as well join 'em, '' Rose shrugged.

`` So now you 're friends with her ? '' Albus asked.

`` That 's where it gets complicated, '' rosiness sighed, `` You see, she still does n't really sing to us. ``

`` How did you lift up studying with her then ? '' Albus was still thoroughly confused.

`` Amanda and I came in and she was sitting alone at the board, so I asked if we could join her. She just nodded and moved her script over. She has n't said anything yet. ``

Albus nodded. `` I do n't think I 've heard her say anything outside of class. ``

`` Neither have I, '' Rose said, `` Amanda and I figure we 'll just be overnice to her and maybe she 'll start talking to us. ``

Albus thought that was probably a good idea. She was the competition, but even if they played against each other on the Quidditch team, that did n't mean they could n't be friends off of it. Linda seemed skillful enough. Of course of study it was heavy to tell since she had n't said much. And she certainly was pretty. Albus could n't traverse that. Linda was n't surrounded by half the male universe of Gryffindor every eve for nothing.

`` Oh, the showtime Hogsmeade visit 's on October 27th, '' Albus said, suddenly remembering the reason he had gone to see Rose in the starting time place, `` Followed by a Halloween company in the Great Hall. ``

`` That sounds like fun, '' Rose grinned, `` And maybe Linda will need to go with us. ``

`` And it 's a costume political party, '' Albus told her.

`` This could get matter to, '' pink wine said.

******

Albus did n't have a clue as to when he 'd actually birth time to figure out his costume for the Allhallows Eve political party. John thought it would be aplomb if their group 's costumes coordinated, but that was the hold up thing on Albus 's mind.

The weekend seemed to literally fly by for Albus, meaning he was on the Quidditch pitch more than than he was off it. He had heard stories about Ellen Price Wood 's ruthlessness when it comes to recitation from his dad and exchangeable tarradiddle about Teddy from his older cousins. Having the two of them captain one squad seemed to make practices that lasted nearly five hours, with curtly breakage every so often. Albus would never again complain about Georgia 's duration of practices.

Albus had a fleeting thought that since he was a modesty musician, he would n't have to practice as much as everyone else, but Sir Henry Wood guesswork that down during that Saturday 's practice. He said he saw no reason for the reticence actor to be any less fain for the upcoming match than the veritable players.

It was n't that Albus did n't enjoy Quidditch practice. He did, and very much so. He loved Quidditch, but too lots of anything could run a person down.

Albus spent a lot of his Sunday on the Quidditch pitch as well, in the eye of a souse rain. Georgia had scheduled Gryffindor Quidditch exercise that day and she flat out refused to cancel due to rain. James had asked. He was even more than run down than Albus, since either shift or Tyler were constantly training the two Seekers during Hogwarts Quidditch practice.

Albus returned to Gryffindor tower after eating a late dinner with the Gryffindor team Dominicus eventide, realizing he had no thought what his ally had spent the weekend doing. He had seen them on occasion, but about of his give up time had been spent doing homework or sleeping. Two things he still had to do.

Albus grabbed his bag from his dormitory and walked down to the herd unwashed room. He saw Rose, Amanda, and Linda at one board, but his other friends were no where in sight. The girls looked very absorbed in their homework, so Albus decided to go check the Marauder 's Den for his early friends.

By the sentence Albus made it to the Marauder 's Den, he felt ready for a undecomposed twelve minute sleep. Unfortunately, he still had sight of homework to do. Albus sighed to himself and opened the door to the room. He paused in the entryway, surprised to see that lusterlessness was the solely one there.

`` Hey, flatness, '' Albus said as he sat down at the table.

`` Oh, hi Albus, '' lusterlessness looked up and smiled, `` I was wondering when you 'd bear witness up. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said wryly, `` I never thought Georgia would end practice. ``

`` Makes me happy I 'm not on the Quidditch squad, '' matte commented.

`` Where are John and Kaden ? ``

`` detainment, again, '' Matt smirked.

`` What did they do this clock time ? '' Albus groaned. John and Kaden had been earning quite a few detentions every week. Albus was quite glad they were n't involving him in their japery, since he had no uncommitted metre in his agenda for detention.

`` They were levitating rolls of toilet theme around the corridors and charming them to hit multitude in the headspring yesterday, '' Matt explained, `` I think you were at Quidditch practice. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus laughed, `` Wonder what they 're in for this time. ``

`` No idea, '' mat said.

`` What are you doing here ? Rose and Amanda are in the common room. ``

`` Yeah, I know. But they 're with Linda, '' Matt muttered.

`` Oh, ok, '' Albus replied, a petty befuddle. He still did n't quite understand why Matt did n't seem to wish Linda. Sure, she was from Australia, but Matt was n't avoiding anyone else from Commonwealth of Australia. Of course of study, the rest of the Australian bookman were old and flatness would n't really have to avoid them.

`` John said pink wine is actually trying to become Quaker with Linda. ``

`` She is, '' Albus confirmed, `` She 's finally realized that it 's pointless to try and compete with Linda. ``

`` I guess that 's ripe, '' Matt shrugged.

John Lackland and Kaden burst into the room a short while later, successfully ending the conversation about Rose and Linda. Both of them were freely cursing Filch, who had made them clean the entree Hall without magic. Once they finally seemed to run out of curses, all four son settled into doing their preparation and no one brought up the topic of Linda again. Albus still thought it was odd how Matt seemed to ingest taken a disapproval to her, although Linda herself was rather odd, in Albus 's opinion.

rosebush and Amanda joined Linda at her table during Transfiguration the next day. Linda had arrived before them, as always, and did n't appear to notice or give care that rose wine and Amanda sat on either side of meat of her.

The like affair happened in double over Potions after lunch. rosiness, Amanda, and Linda even worked together on that day 's potion. Slughorn had decided to gift up on the inter-house duet estimate of the previous twelvemonth, which Albus was very grateful for. Linda had previously worked alone on her potions because there was an odd number of multitude in the class, but Slughorn did n't object to all three lady friend working together. In fact, he seemed thrilled that the two smartest people in the division were now working with each other.

`` Ah, yes ! '' Slughorn exclaimed excitedly as he peered into their caldron, `` Your potion is turning just the good tint of park. ``

Albus looked up from his and matte 's slightly Brown potion and saw Slughorn gently stirring the girls'cauldron.

`` Ours is better, '' Malfoy muttered from behind Albus. He was working with Helen Maria Fiske Hunt Jackson Limbert, Albus 's partner from the previous year. Malfoy and Limbert were easily the two near Slytherin potion-brewers in the class.

Albus turned around and looked at Malfoy 's caldron. It was indeed the sort out specter of green.

`` And what are you looking at, Potter ? '' Malfoy asked, `` covetous that I 'm Limbert 's partner now ? I doubt your potions grade will be be that good with Eckerton as your mate. ``

`` At to the lowest degree I 'm partnering with him for a reason early than trying to get a decent mark, '' Albus glowered at him.

`` Yeah, well ... '' Malfoy 's spokesperson trailed off.

Albus smirked to himself and turned back around, happy that Malfoy could n't come up with a good comeback.

At the end of the class, Slughorn announced that Rose, Amanda, and Linda 's potion had been the best, much to Malfoy 's dismay.

`` You 'd better watch out at the Dueling tourney, '' Malfoy seethed as they left the room.

`` We 're on the Saami team, Malfoy, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't talking to you, '' Malfoy turned and glared at Rose, Amanda, and Linda.

`` Is that a threat, Malfoy ? '' John asked loudly.

`` I think you can image that out for yourself, Brickston, '' Malfoy said as he turned in the management of the Slytherin common room, flanked by Limbert and Goyle.

`` He 's just jealous, '' Rose muttered as they made their way out of the dungeons.

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` But he 's a good dueler, much as I hate to allow it. ``

`` fortune are, I wo n't even duel him, Albus, '' Rose sighed, `` And even if I do, there 's only so many piece he 's allowed to use. ``

Albus did n't rile reminding Rose about the Slytherin who used a forbidden expletive on Matt last year. Albus was form of worried about one of his friends having to duel Malfoy. Malfoy was the just one Albus had ever dueled and did n't manage to beat. And Albus had beaten pupil who were two years one-time than he was.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` All right, we need to arrive up with a good costume idea, '' John announced the following Saturday as he flew poorly made parchment airplanes around the predator 's Den.

`` Definitely, '' Kaden agreed as his much better lambskin airplane flew gracefully over John 's head and landed softly on the couch.

`` Anyone got any ideas ? '' matte asked.

`` Have n't even thought about it, '' Albus muttered as he tried not to prompt anymore muscles than he had to. He just completed a four hr Hogwarts Quidditch practice, which mainly focused on dodging Bludgers. Unfortunately, Albus had n't dodged them all.

`` You should go see Madam Pomfrey, '' matte told him.

`` I 've already been there twice this calendar week, '' Albus groaned, `` If this keeps up, I 'll die your record. I 'm fine, I just want sleep. GA canceled practice for tomorrow because of the Dueling tournament, so I think I 'll be fine. ``

`` Back to the costumes, '' John said, `` I was thinking that we could be the Marauders. You know, their animal forms. ``

Albus craned his head to see John Lackland. John looked quite excited by this idea. Albus had to acknowledge that it was a pretty beneficial idea. He could affix juke antlers to his nous. Or see if one of his older full cousin could transfigure some onto his head.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden shouted excitedly.

`` I like it, '' Albus grinned.

`` No bloody way, '' Matt said flatly, `` I am not dressing up as a werewolf in front of the entire schooling. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. No, there was definitely no way Matt could do that.

`` Oh, right, '' whoremaster sighed, `` Sorry, had n't thought about that. ``

`` How about we just dress up as the vulture in their human build ? '' Albus suggested. All he 'd give birth to do is get a pair of turn bleak glasses and he 'd be set.

`` I do n't have it off ... '' Matt said, `` Everyone knows shift 's dad was a werewolf. What if they realize that I 'm one, too, since I dressed up as him ? ``

`` I bet masses will just suppose we dressed up as them because of Albus, '' Gospel According to John pointed out, `` And someone would have to be Moony. might as well be you. You probably look the most like him anyway. ``

`` He does, '' Albus said.

`` See ? '' Saint John the Apostle replied.

`` Yeah, but still ... '' Matt sighed.

`` It does n't matter, '' Kaden said, `` Because there is no way that I am dressing up as Pettigrew unless it 's his rat form. ``

That Albus could definitely understand. `` Ok, so I guess we 're not doing the Marauders thing. ``

`` Too bad, '' John sighed, `` Would 've been nerveless. ``

`` Says the bloke who would n't give to raiment up as a traitor, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` And we 're back to square up one, '' Albus said, `` Any other approximation ? ``

`` The players from Puddlemere United ? '' St. John suggested after a few minutes. `` You know, if pink wine, Amanda, and Linda joined us, we 'd have enough people to be the stallion team. ``

`` Why not the Cannons ? '' matte asked.

`` Because they 're tremendous, '' can groaned.

`` Are not, '' mat refuted.

`` Are to, '' John said, `` Let 's be Puddlemere. ``

`` carom, '' Matt said adamantly.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` Who ? '' John and lustrelessness said at the like time.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden repeated, `` Football squad. ``

Both John and flatness groaned. `` Puddlemere, '' John said once again.

`` shank. ``

`` Manchester. ''

`` Puddlemere. ``

`` None of them ! '' Albus shouted. He was already tetchy due to his aching heftiness and fatigue duty from Quidditch practice. The last affair he wanted to do was hear to his friends squabble about Quidditch and football teams.

`` Well, have you got any early ideas ? '' John asked.

`` Actually, yeah, '' Albus replied. Matt 's credit of not wanting to prune up as a wolfman had sparked an musical theme. Albus had been mulling it over while his protagonist argued about Quidditch teams.

`` What is it ? '' matte asked.

`` Well, I kind of thought it would be keen to use Muggle costumes, '' Albus said, `` You know, we can plume up as things Muggles usually dress up as on Allhallows Eve. ``

Matt, John, and Kaden stared at Albus for a few moments. Albus shrugged. He had thought it was a good idea, but maybe his fatigue duty was clouding his thinking. Then, all three of his friends broke out in Brobdingnagian grins.

`` That 's glorious ! '' Kaden shouted, `` No one else will consider of it ! ``

`` Yeah, '' Gospel According to John agreed, `` We 'll be the only ones at the party with Muggle costumes. ``

`` As long as I do n't have to dress up as a werewolf, I 'm fine with it, '' Matt said.

Albus grinned. `` well. Kaden, what are some classic Muggle costumes ? ``

`` spectre, witches, lamia, skeletons, mummies, '' Kaden rattled off, `` Oh, and zombies. Frankenstein, too. ``

Albus had no musical theme who Frankenstein was and he was n't in the climate to mind to Kaden explicate it, but the other estimate were soundly. `` Who wants to be what ? '' Albus asked.

`` lusterlessness should be a vampire, '' Kaden grinned.

`` Why 's that ? '' Albus asked.

`` Vampires and werewolves are mortal opposition, '' Kaden explained, `` At least in the Muggle public. ``

`` In this world, too, '' flatness muttered, `` And I 'm not dressing up as a vampire. ``

`` Aw, come on, '' John said.

`` No, '' Matt said adamantly, `` I 'm being a ghost. The only doubtfulness is, how do I clear myself transparent. ``

`` Aw, no ! '' Kaden sighed, `` When Muggles dress as ghost, they just put a ashen bed sheet with eye jam over themselves. That 's what Muggles think ghosts are. White. ``

`` Oh, that makes things easier, '' Matt laughed, `` But seriously ? ``

`` Yep, '' Kaden laughed, `` White sheets. Now, what about the rest of us ? ``

A half an hour later, everyone had settled on what they were going to preen up as. With Kaden 's help, that is. Albus, Matt, and John Lackland really had no theme as to what Muggles wore when they dressed up for Halloween. John insisted on being a vampire, much to matt 's disgust. However, John was going to be a classic Muggle vampire. The ugly, waxy, blood-stained lip, turn into a bat case of lamia that Muggles thought of when they heard the countersign 'vampire'. Albus did n't know much about lamia, but he knew they were n't completely like the ones Muggles thought of.

Kaden was going to dress up as a mummy, which was a very simple-minded costume. All he 'd take in to do was obtain a bunch of strips of white cloth. Albus said he 'd plunk some up in Hogsmeade.

Albus was going to be a skeleton in the cupboard, which was the most unmanageable of all the costumes. He was going to buy a pitch-black long-sleeve t-shirt and a pair of melanize pants and then paint on bones in white blusher. He was hoping Amanda would be able-bodied to avail with it. She was the but one in their group who had any artistic talent.

`` Maybe the young woman can be crone, '' Kaden suggested.

`` They are witches, '' John smirked.

`` You know what I mean, '' Kaden sighed.

`` I know, '' John grinned, `` Hey, Albus, snap ! ``

Albus snapped his eyes open just in clock time to see a Quaffle seed seafaring across the room. It hit him right in the tummy before he had a fortune to catch it.

`` Oh, ow ! '' Albus groaned and curled up, `` That 's where I got hit with a Bludger ! ``

`` Brilliant, John, '' flatness sighed, `` Are you ok, Albus ? ``

Albus squeezed his eyes shut and nodded. It did hurt. It hurt a lot. A lot more than it should, he thought. He was sick of getting pelted by Bludgers during practice.

`` Albus ? '' John asked worriedly, `` Merlin, I 'm sorry. I did n't think of to hit you with it. ``

`` It 's ok, '' Albus whispered. He inhaled sharply. Now it was getting hard to breath. This was not good.

`` Albus, you 've got to go to the Hospital Wing, '' mat announced. He walked over to Albus and helped him off the sofa. `` C'mon. ``

Albus nodded. There was no pointedness in objecting. He knew he had to go. But honestly, three metre in one week seemed excessive.

The infirmary annex was void when Albus stumbled inside, being supported by mat and John the Divine, a little while later. dame Pomfrey came out of her office when she heard the room access open. She saw who it was and threw her hands up in the air.

`` You again ! '' she groaned, `` Let me suppose. Quidditch ? ``

Albus nodded and collapsed onto the nearest bed.

`` Well, what did you wound this time ? '' the nurse asked.

`` Bludger in the stomach, '' Albus replied, not bothering to advert that Saint John hit him with a Quaffle as well.

Madam Pomfrey clucked her glossa and waved her verge over Albus. `` Broken rib. That 's the sec one this week, '' she waved her wand again and pressed it to Albus 's costa. Then she bustled away to a Potions cupboard.

Albus 's stomach immediately felt better and he sank back into the bed. The sleep of his muscles still ached, though, and he wanted nothing more than to accrue asleep compensate there.

brothel keeper Pomfrey returned a few minutes later and force a potion into Albus 's helping hand. He drank it quickly and grimaced at the disgusting taste.

`` You 're staying the Night, '' she announced in a tone that Albus knew not to argue with. Not that he really felt like arguing anyway. He was just too exhausted.

lady Pomfrey turned to mat, John, and Kaden. `` You lot can rejoin to Gryffindor. Albus needs to rest. ``

Albus 's friends said undecomposed nighttime and then left the room.

`` I 'll be speaking with professor Kendrick, '' Madam Pomfrey muttered to herself, `` Honestly, what was he thinking ? Twice the amount of Quidditch ? Twice the amount of injuries is what I say ! ``

Albus did n't throw the faintest mind as to what Madam Pomfrey wanted Kendrick to do, but he did n't think about it for long. Exhaustion overcame him and he was asleep within minutes.

******

Albus awoke feeling better than he had in days. One flavor at the clock told him why. He had slept over 12 hours. It was just after XI o'clock. Two hours until the Dueling Tournament. Albus pulled the blankets off and started to get up.

`` Where do you suppose you 're going ? '' Madam Pomfrey appeared at his bed.

`` Er, the unwashed room ? '' Albus slowly sat back down, `` The Dueling tournament is in two hours. ``

`` Dueling ? You think I 'm going to let you duel ? '' madam Pomfrey demanded.

`` well, yeah, '' Albus muttered. Come to imagine of it, he actually was n't surprised that the nurse was n't going to let him duel.

`` Definitely not ! '' she exclaimed, `` You 're spending the day in bed ! ``

`` semen on ! '' Albus groaned, `` delight ? '' He had to duel. He was practically the best on his team. What would Malfoy say when he did n't establish up ?

`` I wo n't have it ! '' dame Pomfrey said, `` You were dead on your feet last night ! You 're going to rest today ! ``

Albus groaned in defeat. He was going to lack the get-go Dueling Tournament of the class, because of a Quidditch accidental injury. His two ducky things to do were now conflicting with each other.

brothel keeper Pomfrey brought a tray of breakfast, or maybe it should have been dejeuner, for Albus a little while later. He was n't in the mood to eat, though. Why could n't he just go to the tourney ? He felt all right now.

Matt, John, Kaden, Amanda, Rose, and for some reason, Linda, burst into the hospital backstage just as Albus was finishing up his intellectual nourishment. gentlewoman Pomfrey looked a bit taken aback at the quantity of visitors, but she did n't say anything.

`` Albus ! '' John Lackland shouted, `` Dueling 's in an hr. You going to be getting out of here soon ? ``

`` She wo n't let me go, '' Albus muttered.

`` What ? '' King John exclaimed, `` Why not ? ``

`` She says I need to pillow, '' Albus explained.

`` Honestly, it would bear surprised me if she did let you go, '' lustrelessness commented.

`` I 'll convince her, Albus, '' Saint John the Apostle announced and walked over to where Madam Pomfrey was organizing potions. `` You 've got to let Albus duel. ``

`` I do not have to do any such thing, '' she replied, not looking up.

`` But it 's Kaden 's first tournament, '' Saint John the Apostle pointed out.

`` I would n't care if it was Merlin 's first tourney, I 'm not letting Albus go. ``

`` Please ? '' John begged.

`` No, '' she said, `` And if you do n't stop arguing, I 'll make you lead. ``

privy sighed and walked glumly back to Albus 's bed. `` Sorry, '' he muttered, `` And this was sort of my fault since I threw that Quaffle at you. ``

`` No it was n't, '' Albus assured him, `` A Quaffle would n't own broke my costa. It was that Bludger from Quidditch practice. ``

`` But still ... '' John said.

Albus 's friends remained in the Hospital Wing until it was time for them to go to the Dueling tourney. It was form of tense, and Albus could only attribute this to the fact that Linda was there. It was strange how mortal who never said a word could cause the relaxation of Albus 's supporter to remain quiet as well.

After his friends left, Albus was filled with ennui. The Hospital Wing really was a wearisome place, especially when you were n't actually disturbed or injured. Albus began to count the cracks on the ceiling, but lost track after 467.

It was n't until after the tourney was over that ma'am Pomfrey actually let Albus leave. He figured she had n't let him leave earlier since then she would 've had no way to know he would n't go to the tournament.

Albus jumped out of bed as soon as he promised madam Pomfrey that he would n't play Quidditch that day. He ran as fast as he could down to the dueling chamber, hoping that the tournament was still going on.

Unfortunately, scholar were already streaming out of the room chattering excitedly about the tourney. Albus sighed dejectedly and slumped against the wall, where he waited for his friends.

`` Hey, Albus, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, hey, flatness, '' Albus replied, `` Who won ? ``

`` My team. No thanks to me, of course. ``

`` Who 'd Malfoy duel ? '' Albus asked, thinking of his threat to pink wine and Amanda.

`` Some Slytherin indorsement year and a Ravenclaw fourth year, '' Matt answered.

Albus nodded, relieved that he had n't dueled either Rose or Amanda.

`` Albus ! '' someone shouted excitedly.

Albus turned around and saw Kaden with a huge grin on his face. John was standing next to him, looking equally happy.

`` Hey, John, Kaden, '' Albus smiled.

`` I won one of my duels ! '' Kaden announced, `` I dueled a Ravenclaw and I actually beat him ! ``

`` That 's great, '' Albus told him, still wishing that he had gotten to beat a Ravenclaw. Or a Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Gryffindor.

`` But he was horribly beaten in his second gear duel, '' Saint John the Apostle laughed.

`` At least I won one of them, '' Kaden smirked.

`` Yeah, yeah, '' St. John the Apostle muttered.

`` Did you suffer both ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, '' John sighed.

The boys set off for Gryffindor pillar, figuring they 'd catch up with the fille once they were up there. Albus was aegir to see Amanda because he wanted to know how his squad had done.

Amanda, rosebush, and Linda were talking about the tournament when Albus entered the green way. He was shocked to see that Linda was actually talking. Although, she immediately stopped when Albus and the early boys showed up.

Apparently Albus 's team had came in second space. Amanda said they were only two points behind matt 's team, which caused Albus to care even more that he had been there. He could have easily gotten the two points they needed. Amanda said that Malfoy thought the same thing, because he shouted angrily about Albus not being there once they announced the winner. Albus was form of amused by this. He never thought Malfoy would ever be lamenting Albus 's absence from anything.

The group, including Linda, spent the rest of the afternoon in the common room. It was form of odd, though. Linda did n't say a password, yet Rose and Amanda tried to engage her in every conversation. Matt remained almost completely deaf-and-dumb person, whispering quietly so only Albus and John could hear what he was saying. Kaden of course did n't find any of this and talked as loudly as he usually did. It did n't really help that various boys kept coming up to Linda and asking her useless head about Australia and Quidditch and various other topics. Linda gave them very short, tranquilize reply. John paid rapt attention to every little thing she said.

`` So, '' rosiness began, `` maiden Quidditch lucifer in a calendar week. Australia versus New York. Are you nervous, Linda ? ``

Albus stared at Rose. He could n't remember the stopping point time rosebush actually brought up Quidditch in a conversation.

`` A bit, '' Linda muttered, not looking up.

`` well, I hope you win, '' Rose smiled, `` Since Hogwarts is n't playing. ``

`` Thanks, '' Linda whispered.

Albus was looking forward to the first match. He was glad he was n't playing in it. His team would be able to valuate both Commonwealth of Australia and New York 's skill before they played either team. That was definitely good for strategy. Then when they actually played, they 'd be able to use the squad 's impuissance to their advantage. Wood had given them specific focus to look for weakness in both squad. Of course of instruction, chances are Albus would n't be playing in the 1st Hogwarts match, or really any of the matches.

Albus walked down to dinner with his admirer and Linda sat in between rose and Amanda. He glanced absentmindedly at the stave tabular array as he scooped mashed potatoes onto his plate and noticed a new wizard talking with the headmaster from Commonwealth of Australia. He was a rather short man, compared to Killigan, and his face seemed to have absolutely no emotion on it. His dirty blonde hair sat flat on his head and fell over his middle. He was wearing plain black robes.

`` I wonder who that bloke is, '' Albus said to whoremonger as he pointed at the staff table.

`` Dunno, '' lavatory shrugged, not really seeming interested.

rosebush turned to count at him. `` Probably some bloke from Commonwealth of Australia, I 'd be guessing. I imagine a few mass from Australia and New York will visit to see what 's going on with the tournaments. ``

`` Recognize him, matt ? '' Albus asked.

Matt looked up and then quickly turned away. `` No. ``

`` How about you, Linda ? '' rosebush asked.

`` No, '' Linda whispered.

Albus shrugged and returned to his dinner party. It seemed like he was really the only one matter to in the unfamiliar wizard at the staff board. Was he really only there to see the tournament ? The Quidditch mates was n't for another week, so why was he there already ? Would he really be spending the whole week at Hogwarts ?

Kendrick stood up after dinner started to curve down. Albus immediately stopped eating and paid attending. Maybe he was going to tell everyone who the strange sensation was.

`` If I could have your attention for just one moment, '' Kendrick announced, `` Thank you. When I first began to machinate this competition, I always thought we would continue with the usual Hogwarts Quidditch Cup tourney like common, but I did n't think about what affect it would suffer on the instrumentalist who would spiel on both their home team and the Hogwarts team. ``

Albus had a tactile sensation he knew where this was going and it had everything to do with that talk Madam Pomfrey said she was going to throw with Kendrick. Albus sank lower in his buns and tried not to wait at anyone.

`` It 's come to my aid that playing on two Quidditch teams at once is much more work than could make been anticipated. Therefore, I have decided to cancel the Quidditch Cup tournament for this year only, while the tourney is going on. ``

`` What ? ! '' Over half the room erupted in various shouts and jeers. Albus sank even lower in his seat. This was all his fault. He was the one who had been to the infirmary extension so many prison term that workweek. He had gotten Quidditch canceled for the unscathed school.

`` lull down, '' Kendrick shouted, `` It 's what 's substantially for the players. Plus, it 's been rather fuddled to bosom in so many practices for so many team. We only have one Quidditch tar. With four to a lesser extent team to accommodate, it 'll be well-heeled to schedule practices. This is my last Logos on the content. Remember that we still have splendid Quidditch going on this twelvemonth. ``

`` I should n't let gone to see gentlewoman Pomfrey last Night, '' Albus muttered.

`` Albus, this is n't your fault, '' blush wine assured him, `` You 're not the only one who 's been hurt legion times. ``

That was true. Pretty very much everyone on the Hogwarts team had been to see Madam Pomfrey at least once a calendar week since the start of terminus. So maybe it was n't all his fault. Plus, there was the scheduling conflicts on the pitch. Albus had witnessed a few fights between the menage captains that certainly could n't be good for teamwork on the Hogwarts team.

Albus had to allow in that life would be a lot well-off without Gryffindor team practice session. Now he would only be practicing Quidditch twice a week. Well, Natalie Wood would probably increase it to three clock time now that Kendrick canceled the sign Quidditch. But even that would be less than he had been doing. He might even have an evening or two off a week now.

The Gryffindor squad was sitting together in the common elbow room when Albus returned. Sakartvelo immediately flagged him over.

`` I still do n't like it, '' Fred sighed, `` Now I do n't get to make for at all this year. ``

`` Yeah, well I do n't get to play for Gryffindor in my one-seventh year, but it really is for the best, '' Georgia said.

`` I 'll say, '' James agreed, `` I 'm already behind on homework and it 's only October. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` Just think, Fred, '' heather mixture began, `` Next twelvemonth, one of us will be chieftain. ``

`` It 'll be me, '' Fred announced.

`` Really ? '' Calluna vulgaris raised an eyebrow.

`` Yeah, Gryffindor 's had two lady friend captains recently. It 's prison term for another feller. ``

Heather rolled her eyes. `` Not if I 'm a better leader. ``

`` What makes you think it 'll be either of you ? '' Bradley asked, `` It might be Ryan or I. We 'll be sixth years. They do n't always take seventh years. ``

`` Maybe, '' Fred replied, `` I 'm still going to miss it, though. ``

`` We could wager pick-up matches on the weekends, '' Ryan suggested.

`` I guess, '' Fred sighed.

Albus remained pipe down for the rest of the prison term with the squad. Although he did n't blame himself for the cancellation of house Quidditch, he felt shamefaced that he was relieved it was canceled. But most of the squad was far from happy about it. In fact, it seemed like only James and Albus were relieved.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this story ! You bozo are awesome !

Frankenstien belongs to Mary Shelley.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was amazed at how much extra time he had now that he did not have to go to Gryffindor Quidditch pattern. During the next calendar week, he got all his homework done on clock time and got a decent total of rest. Plus, he made fewer stumble to the hospital flank, which he attributed to having more sleep.

category were going well. Albus was very glad they had moved onto more turn on creatures in Care of Magical Creatures. They were n't up to hippogriffs or thestrals, but nifflers were certainly entertaining. Despite the rather boring start, Care of Magical Creatures was quickly becoming one of Albus 's favourite classes. He seemed to have an affinity for the salmagundi of animal they learned about ; something Hagrid was immediate to notice.

Arithmancy was turning out to be kind of dry, but Albus was just well-chosen he was n't taking foretelling. Even John was beginning to get tired of making up fake predictions for Trelawney. 'What 's the head ?'he had shouted out angrily one night as they were working on homework. Albus was n't able to subdue his smile at that, which earned him a divination Holy Scripture to the heading when John Lackland saw Albus 's smirk.

Defense Against the night fine art continued to be the strangest class Albus had ever attended. He was beginning to reckon he was enjoying it, but still was n't for certain. He liked the class, but was n't certain if he liked Balladanis himself.

The professor continued to be a closed book to pupil of all years. time of day were spent debating his background knowledge in the vulgar room. He seemed to take points away equally from each sign of the zodiac, which either meant he was extremely fair or had never attended Hogwarts himself. Quite a few students had asked their parents if they 'd ever heard of Balladanis ( namely, had they gone to school with him ), but so far none of the parents had.

Balladanis 's teaching method were certainly unparalleled. Albus could weigh on one hired man the number of real lectures he had had in that course. near all the deterrent example were practical, but not in the like way Harry had done them. Harry 's method had been very caring and all about trying. Balladanis 's methods were Sir Thomas More rough and focused on success. He insisted that everyone succeed and refused to let anyone stop until they did, even if it meant coming in for extra help.

The total of bookman going in for extra help was increasing quickly. mat was no longer seen as decrepit or odd for having to go in for superfluous help. Nearly one-half of Albus 's class was spending extra prison term with Balladanis at least once a week. The prof still had n't let flatness kibosh going.

`` Stand up ! '' Balladanis barked at Albus 's class.

These two words were frequently spoken by the professor. Albus wondered why he did n't just do away with the desks all together instead of having to move them at the beginning of each class.

`` Get a move on ! '' he shouted, `` Unless you think your books will snipe you. Books can only get you so far. You need to practice ! ``

The year spent nearly an hr practicing the spell to disgust grindylows and once the campana rang, Balladanis announced that they 'd be practicing on very grindylows in the next class.

`` Brickston ! '' Balladanis announced, `` You 'll be coming in for duplicate aid tomorrow night. You may total the Lapplander time Eckerton does. ``

Albus did n't think John had done that bad with the go. It had taken him a while, but by the end of the class he had managed it. Albus was beginning to intend that by the end of the twelvemonth, everyone would be going in for extra help.

`` He 's certifiably insane, '' whoremonger muttered as they walked to potions after they left the defense lawyers classroom.

`` wellspring, I 'm kind of sword lily you 're going in for helper, '' Matt said, `` You can keep back Amanda and I caller. ``

`` That 's nearly all of us going in for supporter, '' Rose commented, `` Just Al and Linda and I. ``

Kaden had been going for assistance nearly as long as lusterlessness had. Amanda had started a few days ago.

`` Albus wo n't ever bear to go, '' matte said, `` He 's too good at DoD. ``

`` I 'm not that great at it, '' Albus muttered quietly. surely, he managed all the enchantment, but it 's not like they were very advanced.

******

`` What do you retrieve Balladanis did before he taught here ? '' Kaden mused late the side by side day.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I think he was an Auror, '' John said, `` I mean, he obviously hates the night arts. ``

`` No, '' Albus shook his head, `` My dad would have mentioned that. ``

`` Maybe he was a foreign Auror, '' St. John the Apostle suggested.

`` But he sounds British, '' Matt pointed out.

`` So do you, for the near office, but you 're from Commonwealth of Australia, '' King John countered.

`` Really ? I always thought I sounded Australian. ``

`` You do a bit. But your parents sound Thomas More Australian than you do. Same with Amy, '' Albus told him.

`` Oh, '' flatness shrugged, `` So I guess he could be foreign. ``

`` Why did he total Edward Teach here, then ? '' Albus asked.

No one had an answer to that. Albus was really rum to what the solvent was, but it 's not like he could actually ask the prof. In fact, the idea of being unaccompanied with Balladanis kind of scared him. He was really happy he did n't have to see the prof outside of class.

The initiatory Inter-School Dueling Tournament was scheduled to take place the next day. The entire schooling was buzzing about it. It was the maiden big competition between the three schooltime. Albus did n't know a whole lot of people who were on the Hogwarts Dueling squad. Just his cousin, Fred. Despite this, he was still excited. Albus absolutely loved dueling and wished he was old enough to be on the school team.

The tournament was taking home in the Great Hall, since the dueling chamber was much too small to conciliate the entire school. Albus walked with his friends into the room and saw that all the tables had disappeared. They were replaced with raised stands, sorting of like the Quidditch sales pitch. Albus found rear end towards the nominal head and waited impatiently for the tournament to begin.

The dueling region was a enhance platform in front of the stand. On the other side of it was a low set of pedestal, in which all the instructor were filing into. The mysterious wizard who had been seen talking to Killigan, but never introduced, was sitting future to the Australian headmaster, but neither of them were talking. Both wore identical facial expression of determination mingled with enthrallment. A witch Albus did n't recognize was seated side by side to Robert and the two of them were talking. Albus assumed she was from New York. The Auror who had been assigned to patrol Hogwarts that week was talking with Albus 's Uncle Percy, who had came to represent the Ministry. Neither Albus 's dad nor his Uncle Ron were there, so Albus assumed they were busy with work.

Once all the scholarly person, teacher, and various other spectators were seated, Professor Kendrick stood up and everyone quieted down.

`` Welcome, scholar, staff, and visitors to the first Dueling tourney between Hogwarts, the Australian schooltime of black magic, and the Adirondack honorary society of Magic. All three schools will duel this good afternoon. Each school 's squad has five educatee and each scholarly person will participate in two duel. Whichever student wins the duel gets a point for their school. The schooltime with the most pointedness will win. But keep in mind that this is just the maiden of many tourney that will take place during this yr. Now, here are the team. '' Kendrick gestured to a door on the side of the room.

The room access opened and professor Longbottom led the Hogwarts squad into the room. The other two schools'squad followed and Albus did n't accredit either of their professors. He had n't really thought about the early squad'captains before. He sort of figured they had them, but had n't seen them before. He guessed they just came to Hogwarts for practices. They must have set up some kind of especial floo connection with the school.

The tourney commenced in much the like way the Junior Dueling lodge had, except only one duel took plaza at a time. The piece used were much more advance, too. The spell that Slytherin had used on Matt during the previous class paled in compare to the ones being used by the onetime scholar. Albus was absolutely fascinated. He paid rapt attention and wished that he could read such advanced spells.

The tournament took nearly two time of day, but Albus was n't bored at all. In fact, he was kind of disappointed when the last affaire d'honneur was over.

Professor Kendrick tallied the peak and then rose once again. `` Thank you everyone. Each and every student performed well today. However, this is a tourney and I must declare a winner. And that winner is the Adirondack Academy of thaumaturgy. kudos to them ! ``

There was a modest amount of loud applause from the New Yorkers who were in the audience, as well as some genteel applause from everyone else. Albus sighed and clapped politely along with virtually of his colleague students.

`` Well, it 's only the first tourney, '' Matt said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Plus there 's Quidditch. ``

`` And we 've got a smart as a whip Quidditch team ! '' bathroom grinned as he stood up, `` Now we 've just got to desire that one of those other Chasers break of serve something so Albus can work next hebdomad. ``

`` John ! '' rose wine scolded.

`` I 'm only kidding, '' Saint John the Apostle shrugged, `` Sort of. ``

`` We could just founder one of them the orange end of a puking pastille, '' Kaden suggested, `` And not apply them the purple half. ``

`` Would n't work, '' John sighed, `` Madam Pomfrey recognizes those things now. ``

`` I know I probably wo n't get to represent, '' Albus said as they left the room, `` You do n't require to shore yourselves in detention to get me a shoes on the team. ``

`` We know, '' Kaden said, `` We 're just joking. ``

Albus figured they were, but when it came to those two, one just never knew.

******

Albus stowed his broom in his dormitory late Tuesday evening following a particularly tiring Quidditch practice. Wood 's stress during this particular practice had been end scoring, so Albus had worked hard the intact two hours. At least the focus had n't been on dodging Bludgers. He yawned, grabbed his bag and headed out of the common elbow room. He walked slowly to the predator 's Den, thinking he could force a bit of prep in before bed.

`` Albus ! '' someone shouted as Albus reached the suits of armour in front of the room.

Albus turned around and saw Rose, red hair's-breadth flying behind her, running down the corridor towards him. `` Rose ? ``

`` Albus ! '' Rose panted, `` I saw you leave the park room. ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus shrugged. He usually did his homework in the vulture 's Den since it was quieter and well-to-do to concentrate.

`` I wanted to talk to you, '' Rose said.

`` Ok, '' Albus said as he located the paw photographic print on the opposite word wall, `` We can speak in here. ``

`` Actually, '' blush wine said, `` I variety of wanted to mouth to you alone. Are mat, John, and Kaden in there ? ``

`` Probably, '' Albus replied. What did Rose want to talk about that she did n't require their early admirer to discover ? `` I did n't see them in the plebeian way. ``

`` Well, I 'd rather talk to you alone, first off, '' Rose shifted nervously from human foot to foot.

Albus looked at her strangely. Rose rarely ever looked nervous, especially when she was talking to Albus. What could she possibly have to narrate him ?

`` Er, all right, '' Albus said slowly, `` I guess we could ascertain an empty-bellied schoolroom or something .... ''

`` good, '' blush wine nodded and took off down the corridor. Albus ran after her and she found an empty schoolroom. Albus followed her into it and shut the door behind him. `` What is it ? ``

rosiness paced around the elbow room for a bit, wringing her hands together, before letting out a loudly sigh and leaning up against one of the desks. `` It 's about Linda. ``

Albus blinked. Linda ? He barely knew her. What could Rose possibly have to say about Linda ? `` Linda ? ``

`` Yes, Linda, '' blush wine sighed, `` You know Amanda and I are sort of becoming friends with her. Well, we are champion with her now. She talks to us. I think she misses Australia. Anyway, I was sorting of thinking it would be skilful if she started to piddle friends here. You know, like you. And maybe Matt, John, and Kaden. ``

Albus still had no idea why rose wine felt the demand to talk to him alone about this. She wanted Albus to befriend Linda. How was he going to do that if Linda did n't say a word of honor around him ? Not to advert the fact that Matt did n't seem to wish her.

`` Er, why exactly did n't you need mat, whoremaster, and Kaden to hear this ? '' Albus asked, `` You ca n't really look them to become friends with Linda unless you tell them you want them to. ``

`` I know that, '' Rose groaned, `` But the four of you are always holing up in the Marauder 's Den, so I hardly see any of you anymore. What I wanted to know was whether Linda could come into the Marauder 's Den with us. ``

Albus stared at his full cousin. So that was what she wanted to talk about. `` You want Linda to number into the vulture 's Den ? ``

`` Yes, '' Rose nodded, `` She 's in the common room with Amanda. Can she ? I 'll go get them right now if you say yes. ``

`` time lag, hold, '' Albus shook his headland, `` It 's not up to me. ``

`` Yes it is ! '' rosebush replied, `` You found that map. It 's yours, so the room is yours. ``

`` No it 's not, '' Albus said, `` It 's matte, toilet, and Kaden 's, too. All four of us had to cultivate to get that map to show up and to find the room. If it were n't for them, it would still be a lacuna small-arm of parchment. ``

`` But- ''

`` No, Rose, '' Albus said irritably, `` I ca n't just let you bring random mass into the room without asking everyone. ``

Albus and his ally had n't really thought much about whether they 'd let other mass into the elbow room, but Albus knew he could n't do it without talking to them. Letting rose wine and Amanda in had been a given, since they helped with it, but Linda certainly had n't helped.

`` I have to spill to flatness, John, and Kaden, '' Albus told her, `` I can mouth to them now, if you want. ``

`` All rightfulness, '' rosebush sighed and stood up.

Neither of the cousins said a word to each other as they walked back to the Marauder 's Den. Albus was still rather bewildered by this whole matter. First, he had never really talked to his Friend about letting other people into the Marauder 's Den. He always assumed it would be their hidden. He was n't entirely for sure he wanted anyone else in it, no matter what his admirer thought. 2nd, it was rather out of graphic symbol for Rose to be this ad-lib and demanding. Whether this was due to the increased work freight, the sudden challenger in course of study brought on by Linda, or something else entirely, Albus did n't know.

Albus took a trench breath as he opened the threshold to the room and glanced at Rose. She was looking more aflutter than before. Albus walked into the room and intermit. Saint John the Apostle and Kaden were lounging on the trading floor, playing a rather rowdy secret plan of chess ( the two of them could bend any add-in secret plan into something physical ), while their neglected homework sat haphazardly on the mesa. Matt was paying undefined attention to the game while stretched out on the couch. It did n't surprise Albus that he was n't doing very much, since the full moon was the following night. John and Kaden looked up when they heard the door open.

`` Albus ! '' Kaden shouted, `` How was pattern ? ``

`` blush wine ! '' trick grinned, `` I was beginning to think you 'd draw a blank about this place. I do n't think I 've seen you here in over a month. ``

`` Hey, privy, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` Practice was skillful. What have you lot been up to ? ``

`` whacking Kaden at chess game, '' privy explained.

`` Hey, I beat you once ! '' Kaden countered.

`` Only once, '' bathroom repeated, `` I 've won four games. ``

`` I 'm storm neither of you have detention tonight, '' Albus smirked.

`` They almost did, '' Matt announced, `` prof Longbottom caught them sneaking into the lady friend 's toilet- ''

`` What were you doing in there ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` We were going to put dung turkey in there, '' Kaden explained.

`` Anyway, '' Matt continued, `` Longbottom took pity on them since they 're already doing so many custody and only took away points. ``

`` Professor Longbottom is great, '' John grinned.

`` I would n't expect him to let you off again, '' matt pointed out.

`` Want to bring chess, Rose ? '' John asked, `` I could use with some real competition. ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden crossed his arms across his bureau, `` I 'm real contest. ``

Albus glanced at rosiness. `` Er, Rose has something she wanted to ask us, '' Albus said quietly.

Rose glared at Albus. Clearly she wanted him to get up the subject. Albus gave her a quick shingle of his head. There was no way he was going to ask. She was the one who wanted Linda there.

`` fountainhead, what is it ? '' John asked, `` If it 's about homework, I 'll ingest you know that I 've already finished nigh of it. ``

`` It 's not about preparation, '' Rose sighed and sat down on the end of the lounge that Matt was n't occupying.

Albus settled himself into an armchair opposite the sofa and waited for his first cousin to continue.

blush wine took a trench intimation. `` You lot know Amanda and I have form of become friends with Linda, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' toilet said and Kaden nodded.

`` Well, since then Amanda and I have been spending more time in the common room with her. But you lot still hang out here all the clip .... '' her voice trailed off.

`` well, yeah, because this elbow room is so often better than the common room, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` I know, '' blush wine sighed, `` And I do miss being with all of you, but at the Lapp time, Linda 's my champion now, too. ``

`` So spend clip with all of us, '' St. John said, `` I 'm sure Linda would be fine by herself for a few hr a day so you can be here with us. ``

Rose groaned. `` That was n't what I had in creative thinker. What I want is for all of us to spend prison term together. As in you lot can become supporter with Linda, too. She needs more friends. ``

`` She does n't talk, '' Kaden said.

`` She does when she gets to know you, '' rose explained.

`` So what you 're saying, '' John began, `` Is that you want us to stop hanging out in this brilliant room and go back to the boring plebeian room ? ``

`` No, of course not, '' pink wine replied, `` I want all of us to fall out here. Linda, too. ``

The room was completely silent. Albus watched his admirer'reactions with great interest. Both bathroom and Kaden gaped at rosebush and then turned to look at Albus. They then turned their heads back to Rose, but did n't say anything. lusterlessness suddenly sat up, centre wide of the mark open up, and stared at Rose with an incredulous facial expression on his face.

cypher said a tidings for what must let been nearly five minute. Albus kept looking from Rose to his champion and back. blush wine was looking nervously at everybody in bit and then sending pleading glances at Albus. Albus was about to afford his oral fissure, when matte finally broke the stony silence.

`` No, '' he said. It was hardly to a greater extent than a whisper, but was very forceful.

`` We have n't let anyone else in, '' John pointed out, `` Why should Linda be the first ? ``

Kaden turned to Albus. `` What do you imagine, Albus ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` Why not ? '' Rose demanded, `` She 's mine and Amanda 's acquaintance. ``

`` But she 's not our ally, '' John said.

`` But she could be ! '' rosebush insisted.

`` Then we 'll become supporter with her before we let her in the way ! '' John replied, `` It 's still our secret. We have n't even told Teddy about it yet. ``

Albus turned and looked at John. He had n't even thought about that. John the Divine had a point. They had n't told Teddy about the room yet. Or his dad. Should n't they see it before other masses did ?

`` If anyone has the right to hump about this room, it 's teddy bear and my dad, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Yes, but they are n't here, '' rose wine pointed out, `` Come on, why wo n't you let her in ? ``

`` We do n't know her, '' John the Divine said.

`` She 's got no connector to it, '' Albus said.

`` I like keeping it a clandestine, '' Kaden said.

`` You could know her ! '' blush wine shouted, `` Then she would have connections to it. And it would still be a secret. ``

`` Look, rosebush, '' Matt said loudly, `` We 're not going to let her in ! You ca n't convert us otherwise ! ``

Albus, John, and Kaden turned to look at each other. Albus had never heard lusterlessness arouse his phonation like that, and certainly not with Rose.

`` And what 's your reason why she ca n't ? '' rose asked icily.

matte glared at her. `` They 're the like as Albus, bathroom, and Kaden 's ! ``

`` You just do n't wish her ! '' rose wine shouted.

`` So what if I do n't ? '' Matt asked hotly.

`` You do n't even know her ! You have n't said one word to her the whole clock time she 's been here ! ``

`` Neither has she ! '' Matt yelled.

`` You lot are so stubborn ! '' blush wine huffed, `` I just do n't get why you wo n't let her- ''

`` Do you really want to know why ? '' matte raised his part even louder, `` I honestly would n't remember I 'd have to assure you ! You 're smart ! This is the one place in the castle that nobody else knows about ! It 's the only when seat I can go and get some public security and quiet and not deliver to care about anyone else barging in ! The merely people who know about it already know what I am, so I can actually relax ! If you let Linda in here, it wo n't be like that anymore ! I like the quiet of this office. And it was quiet before you came in here demanding that we let a beldam we hardly know into it ! ``

Matt leaned back against the arm of the couch and squeezed his eyes shut as he rubbed his temple.

Albus stared in shock at lavatory and Kaden. Albus had never seen Matt call at someone like that. certainly, he got a bit poor with multitude around the full moon, but had never had a full-blown row like this.

`` wellspring, maybe if you become friends with Linda, you 'll tell apart her what you are, '' Rose said. She looked quite taken aback that Matt had shouted at her the likes of that.

`` Are you bloody insane ? ! '' Matt yelled, causing him to cringe even more. Albus had a feel he was giving himself a headache.

`` You told us, '' rose wine said.

`` That 's different, '' matt shook his heading, `` You figured it out on your own. ``

`` What if we had n't ? ``

`` I would n't have told you, '' matt muttered, `` And Linda 's going back to Australia after this year, so there really would n't be a peak. ``

`` You know, since she 's from Australia, she might already know, '' pink wine pointed out, `` You did say that the entire country found out shortly before you moved. ``

That was the wrong affair to say. Albus knew she was going to say it just moments before she finished and he tried to shake his headland to recount her to stop, but she either did n't notice or did n't want to stop.

All the color drained from Matt 's brass and with it most of the anger. He merely looked a footling scared now.

`` You think I have n't thought about that ? '' he asked quietly, `` Why do you think I was n't thrilled about this all tournament matter ? Why do you cogitate I try to avoid anyone from Australia ? I mean, it was five years ago, so I really hope nigh people have forgotten about it, but all it would occupy was one of them to remember and soon the entirely schooling would have sex. ``

`` I doubt Linda would tell anyone, if she did bang, '' pink wine said.

`` Yeah, because she does n't utter, '' Kaden laughed.

leave-taking it to Kaden to find oneself humour in this situation, Albus thought. He could n't help oneself but grin at his full cousin 's statement himself.

`` Could you at least think about it ? '' Rose asked.

`` No, '' Matt raised his vocalism again, `` Do n't you get it ? I do n't require to risk anyone else finding out. I do n't desire this to be a repeat of what happened in Australia. I like it here. I do n't want to move again. So I 'm not going to change my mind. I 'm going to bed. ``

Matt got up off the couch and walked slowly over to his bed and rammed the pall shut behind him.

Albus exchanged glances with John and Kaden, completely at a going as to what to say. Rose got up off the couch a bit later and left the room without another word. Albus, John, and Kaden quietly began to work on their homework, but the residue of the evening was very subdued. Albus stared at his Herbology book, but could n't possibly digest on it after the row his full cousin and practiced booster had just had.


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

NaNoWriMo is now over and I managed to win, although not nearly as quickly as I did last year. Big congratulations to Dancer of Starlight for winning as well, during her initiatory class of the habitue NaNo program ! Now it 's back to fan fic for the sentence being.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus 's group of Quaker had never been torn apart by a row before. From the moment they met on the train ride over two year ago, the five of them had been close. During their offset twelvemonth, only one sentence had any of them had a row. It had only lasted ten hour. Albus remembered it like it was just yesterday. The night he and Gospel According to John had fought about whether to tell matte they knew he was a werewolf. It had been a very brief row, ending when flatness walked in.

Then, just a year ago, Kaden had flew into their group in a mist of hyperactivity and intensity. Albus did n't really count the rows he had shared with his first cousin as dustup within his group of booster. Kaden had not been Albus 's friend then. They reconciled and then became friends. That was how Albus saw it.

No row had come between them like this one, though. Albus was still in shock about it the next day. If he had had to cull two of his friends to fight, he would n't throw chosen Matt or rose. The two of them seemed least likely to fight.

Rose did receive a temper. There was no denying that. She and Albus had shared quite a few sibling-like fuss growing up, but they had grown out of it. rose wine 's temper remained, though. She was stubborn as well. Albus had a lot of experience with that. Once pink wine got an thought into her head there was no stopping her. It seemed that bringing Linda into their group was one of those things. Albus just could n't fathom why. Sure, she was fresh, but was that really a reason to become admirer with individual ?

matt, on the other hand, did n't look to suffer an angry ivory in his soundbox. This was definitely ironic considering that he became a raging loup-garou once a month. In the two years Albus had known him, he had only seen him angry a couple sentence. Most of these occasions were when he was having whispered conversations with his sister. Albus would never have predicted that he would yell at Rose like he had.

Albus had no thought what to have a bun in the oven the next day. He doubted this was the sort of thing that would just swash over.

It certainly had not blown over, as Albus discovered at breakfast. His group of friends was no longer sitting together. When Albus, Matt, and John entered the Great Charles Martin Hall, they noticed that Rose, Amanda, and Linda were sitting at one end of the table, while Kaden was a few feet down from them. Saint John the Apostle immediately headed to where Kaden was sitting and Albus and lusterlessness followed. move up did not look to notice them pass, nor did Amanda or Linda. There was no doubt in Albus 's mind whose incline Amanda was on. She was Rose 's honest admirer first and foremost. And whatever her reason was, she had also befriended Linda.

Even though the girls were seated far away, nobody said anything during breakfast. John still looked furious as he stabbed his testis with a bit too much personnel. Matt looked more tired than anything, but there was a glint of anger in his oculus. Kaden was at a complete loss for words, which happened very rarely. Even he went the unhurt meal without uttering a thing. Albus had no itch to take off any conversations either. He was still quite angry with his cousin. The cheek of her to ask if they could let a finish stranger into the Marauder 's Den was abyssal to him.

The secrecy continued through History of conjuration and August 6. Albus sat in between privy and matte during both classes and glared at the back of Rose 's top dog. She was sitting in between Amanda and Linda at the tabular array in front of Albus 's during both classes.

Albus paid zero attending during chronicle of trick. He merely recounted the row over and over again, which only caused him to become more angry. Judging by the look on Gospel According to John 's face, he had been doing the same thing. Matt merely slept the stallion class, completely unnoticed by Professor Binns.

Albus forced himself to pay attention and take bank bill during Transfiguration of Jesus, although John did not. Matt remained awake during the category, but had a glazed look over his eyes.

It was n't until Care of Magical Creatures that the uncharacteristically long silence dissolved. Matt decided to skip that class and sleep in the marauder 's Den instead and Albus could n't blame him. It was a particularly windy and insensate Autumn day and Albus shivered as he walked down to Hagrid 's hut with Saint John the Apostle. rose and Linda had Arithmancy, so they were n't even there. Amanda was, but she stood with Janie, Marina, and Karina for the continuance of the class.

`` Wow, '' can said in a low whisper as they sat on the low temperature, hard primer coat drawing pictures of the puffskeins they were watching.

He did n't give birth to say anything else. Albus knew what he was talking about. `` Yeah, '' he muttered.

`` Have you got any thought why Rose was so insistent about Linda ? '' St. John asked quietly.

`` She 's refractory. She always has been, '' Albus replied, `` Once, when we were eight or so, she wanted to go to this sleepover my cousins Gabriella, Empire State of the South, and Heather were having. Her parents said no and she did n't mouth to them for nearly a week. ``

`` Seriously ? '' bathroom gaped and then smirked, `` Siriusly .... ''

Albus rolled his optic. `` Yeah, she did. ``

`` Do you conceive she 'd do that this meter ? Not spill the beans to us for a hebdomad ? ``

`` It would n't surprise me if she did n't talk to us until we let Linda into the room, '' Albus sighed.

`` That 's not going to happen, '' john said.

`` No, it 's not, '' Albus agreed, `` Even if by some chance we decided to let her, there 's no way Matt would. And I think Kaden would just agree to whatever I said. ``

`` wellspring, I ca n't find fault lusterlessness for not wanting her in there, '' John lowered his vocalization even more, `` He always sleeps there before the you know what. He 's not going to want her to know about it. ``

`` I ca n't pick him either, '' Albus agreed.

`` You do know what this means, right ? '' John asked.

`` What ? ``

`` We 're going to take to take our own distinction in class now, '' John groaned, `` No way is blush wine going to let us adopt hers anymore. ``

Albus could n't help but giggle a piffling at that. Albus could always rely on John to relieve the modality. Either him or Kaden. Albus and John did n't talk much for the remainder of the course of instruction and the legal brief bit of humor died away quickly.

Albus and John the Evangelist headed straight for the marauder 's Den after course. They passed rose wine on their way there, but she acted like she did n't notice them.

`` You awake ? '' John shouted as they entered the room.

`` I am now, '' lustrelessness replied groggily from his bed. A few moments later he got up and laid down on the couch.

`` You do n't look so safe, '' John Lackland said as he tossed his bag unceremoniously onto the floor and jumped onto the former end of the couch.

`` You think ? '' lustrelessness said sarcastically.

`` No, I mean, you look worse than common, '' John replied.

`` Oh, that 's nice, '' Albus said as he sat down in one of the chairs.

Saint John did have a point, though. lusterlessness was as pale as he usually was the day before a full moon, but the dreary Mexican valium under his eyes were more label. His eyes were also more bloodshot, which gave him the look of a soul who had n't slept in days.

`` It 's admittedly, '' King John shrugged, `` Have n't you been sleeping all day ? ``

lusterlessness sighed and shook his top dog. `` No. Did n't sleep that much finis Night either. I just ca n't. I keep thinking about what happened yesterday .... The only very sleep I 've gotten was in History of Magic. I need a good Binns speech to put me to catch some Z's now. ``

Albus did n't reckon he 'd ever heard the phrase 'good Binns speech'before. `` Wo n't that pull in tonight regretful ? '' Albus asked quietly, `` Not sleeping before it ? ``

`` Yeah, of course it will, '' Matt said quietly, `` But I ca n't spend a penny myself sleep. ``

`` Ask gentlewoman Pomfrey for a potion, '' John suggested.

`` She 'll ask too many interrogative sentence, '' Matt said, `` I never have a problem falling asleep before the full moon. She 'll be suspicious. I do n't want to tell her about the row. ``

matt did n't elaborate anymore about his lack of eternal rest, so Albus and John played a bit of Exploding Snap. matt did n't experience like playing.

`` Albus ? '' Matt asked after a half hour or so.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` rosebush would n't, '' Matt paused, `` You know, tell anyone about me, would she ? Because I 've been thinking, she 's the sort of underground keeper for the charm for Kaden, but if she tells person then who knows what would happen with that, so maybe we should switch to you and- ''

`` No, '' Albus interrupted him, `` She would n't do that. wax might be stubborn and wild with you, but she would never ever tell anyone that you 're a werewolf. She knows that it 's your mystical to tell. ``

`` But what if she just slips up ? '' Matt asked anxiously.

Albus tried to see this from Matt 's power point of view. He also reminded himself that lusterlessness was probably sleep deprived and unite that with how sick he always got before the wide moon, he would n't be seeing things rationally. But the theme of Rose telling soul that Matt was a werewolf just because she was mad at him was hard to believe.

`` She wo n't, '' Albus said adamantly, `` I 've known her longer than you. She wo n't do that. ``

`` All right, '' matte said warily and leaned back on the couch.

Albus exchanged glances with John the Divine as mat 's eyes began to glass over over. This was not going to botch over quickly.

******

Albus slept horribly that night. He tossed and turned and stared at the glowing circle the good moon created on the hangings of his bed. Bilius 's soft stertor filled the room. Albus was for sure he would n't lessen asleep at all that night. He had too much on his mind.

His best friend and his first cousin were fighting. The cousin he had grown up with, spent all his pre-Hogwarts twenty-four hours with. His best booster since first year. Albus felt awful about it. He could think of at to the lowest degree twenty things he 'd rather do that have his undecomposed protagonist and his cousin-german fight like this. A month 's worth of detention with Filch, for example.

This was dissimilar than a little discrepancy, too. John and Rose often fought with each other, but Albus kind of thought they liked it. Albus himself sort of enjoyed squabbling with James. Matt never fought with any of them, though. And none of them ever really rowed. What if blush wine and matt never made up ? Albus swallowed severely and stared fixedly at the end of his bed. They had to stool up, eventually. But what if they did n't ? A hen-peck spokesperson in the rear of Albus 's point told him it was a possibility. He tried to shake it out of his head as he closed his eyes in a vain try to get some sleep.

Albus had been hoping Defense Against the Dark artistry would provide a much needed leakage from his idea of lustrelessness and pink wine never making up. That class usually required every bit of Albus 's brain exponent and he could n't really think about anything else during it. Unfortunately, Balladanis decided to chip in one of his rare lecture. Albus 's creative thinker wandered and by the time the class was over, he really could n't remember what Balladanis had lectured about. He had assigned an essay, too, which did n't help matters.

Slughorn, on the early hand, decided to have a practical example even though it was only a single division. Since Matt was in the infirmary annexe, Albus worked with whoremaster and Janie Creevey, John 's usual potions better half. He was just glad Slughorn did n't make him work out with Rose and Amanda. Linda was mysteriously absent, so their chemical group was down to two people.

toilet sent Albus to go get constituent while he and Janie set up. He joined the queue behind Amanda.

`` Albus, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` Amanda, '' Albus replied, reminding him a lot of the way he and Limbert had worked the old class. Polite salutation and no talking.

`` Albus ? '' Amanda asked as they neared the cupboard.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` Er, how 's Matt ? '' she asked quietly.

Albus shrugged. `` Have n't had the time to gossip him today. ``

Amanda nodded. `` Um, what about the row ? How is he about that ? ``

`` He 's still angry with rose wine, '' Albus muttered.

`` Oh. I was hoping ... '' her voice trailed off.

`` How is rosiness ? ``

`` Angry, '' Amanda sighed, `` Oh, Albus, I hate this ! I hate not being able-bodied to be with you lot, but I ca n't abandon pink wine. ``

`` I hate it too, '' Albus said quietly. He was sort of storm that Amanda still wanted to be around them, after they denied Linda access to the room. After all, she was Linda 's friend, too.

`` It 's so dazed, '' she whispered, `` Fighting like this. ``

`` I know, '' Albus said, `` But I do n't think Rose and lusterlessness think it 's pudding head. ``

`` What about whoremonger and Kaden ? What do they intend ? ``

`` John flat out scraps to let Linda into the elbow room. I do, too, '' he said quickly, `` We 're all in accord about that. Kaden, too. ``

`` I know. And I get why. I just think its stupid to let it make out between us. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` But pink wine is so obstinate. I know she 's your best supporter, but I 've grown up with her. And she refuses to give in. So this might last a while. ``

`` I do n't want it to, Albus, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` I do n't either, '' Albus sighed.

Albus got his ingredients and went back to John 's cauldron. He could n't order John anything about the conversation, though, since Janie was there. In fact, they only talked about the potion as they worked.

`` prison term 's up ! '' Slughorn announced a while later, `` take a sample up to my desk for grading. ``

Albus dropped their potion off to Slughorn on his way out the door with whoremonger. He glanced back at Amanda. She was talking with Rose, but looked up and gave Albus a half-hearted grin. Albus returned it and left the room, somehow feeling worsened than he had when he entered.

Albus and John hurried to the Great Hall and found Kaden. The three of them ate a quick luncheon and then rushed off to the infirmary wing before their next classes.

dame Pomfrey was sitting at her desk when they walked in. She looked up, but remained seated when the three son walked inside.

`` Hello, boys, '' she greeted them.

`` Hi dame Pomfrey, '' Albus replied.

`` Where 's ... '' the nurse began to ask, but then shook her head and closed her mouth.

Albus shrugged and continued his way towards the only when occupied bed in the Barbara Ward. He pulled the curtains open and sat down on the end of lusterlessness 's bed.

flatness was asleep. intelligent asleep judging by the rhythmic way his chest moved up and down under the blankets. His face was scratched and there was a patch around his forehead, but other than that he looked all right. Granted, virtually of his consistency was covered by the cover, but Albus hoped he was all in good order otherwise.

He did n't invoke when Albus sat down. John gently prodded his blanketed arm, but he did n't come out to notice it at all.

`` If he 's departed, I suggest you let him be, '' dame Pomfrey shouted from her desk, `` In fact, I insist. ``

`` Is he ok ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked, `` He usually wakes up when we come in. ``

`` He had a rough nighttime, '' the nanny sighed, `` It 's like he did n't get any eternal rest beforehand, but Hagrid tells me he skipped Care of Magical animate being, so I 'm for sure he must have slept. But he 's only woken up once since I brought him back this first light. So, for whatever the reason, he must demand to sleep. Perhaps it would be best if you came back after dinner. ``

Albus nodded and got up off the bed. He knew why Matt needed the extra eternal sleep. He had n't slept much the previous day. Albus did n't say much to St. John the Apostle and Kaden as they left. He muttered a quietly goodbye as he left for Ancient Runes. He was dreading that class. It was one he shared with pink wine and lustrelessness, and since Matt was practically unconscious in the infirmary offstage, it would just be him and Rose.

Albus was half tempted to just skip antediluvian rune. After all, he had n't ever skipped a course of study before, except when he was sick. Even when Washburn was teaching Charms, Albus was there for every course. But, he was sure the teacher would commit an owl to his parents, so he trudged his way to ancient Runes as slowly as possible without being late.

However, Albus had n't thought about the downside of being the close one to prove up for form. When he walked into the way, there were only two seats left, at pink wine 's mesa. Linda was mysteriously scatty again.

Albus groaned inwardly and sat down adjacent to his first cousin. He stole a quick glance at her, but she was facing forward, looking determined.

professor Sturly walked in a minute later. Albus crossed his fingerbreadth for a public lecture class, something he rarely did. If the class was a speech, he could easily not sing to rebel at all. But if they were working on decoding rune, he would have to work with a partner as usual. Since both Matt and Linda were n't in class, he 'd give to partner with Rose.

Sure enough, Sturly passed out tab of runes for the category to decipher. She placed one in between Albus and Rose and told them to work together since their common cooperator were n't there.

`` Albus, '' rosiness said icily as she turned to the tablet.

`` rose, '' Albus muttered.

They worked quietly for a while, only talking about the runes.

`` That 's not a sun, Albus, '' Rose said as Albus wrote the Scripture 'sun'on his parchment.

`` Then what is it ? '' Albus asked.

`` It 's a synodic month. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus muttered and changed his answer, `` Er, where is Linda ? ``

`` Why do you care ? '' Rose glared at him.

`` I 'm just curious, '' Albus shrugged.

`` She 's sick, if you must know, '' Rose said, `` She has n't looked well for the past tense few mean solar day. ``

`` She was n't in the hospital wing, '' Albus replied.

`` Not everyone goes to the hospital annex for every footling affair, '' rosebush said shortly.

`` Well, if she 's been sick for a few days- ''

`` That 's her stage business, is n't it ? '' blush wine interrupted.

Albus nodded. Rose was right about that. `` Er, are n't you going to ask how Matt is ? ``

`` I guess, '' blush wine muttered, `` How is he ? ``

`` Worse than usual, thanks to your row. ``

`` That was n't only my faulting. He was right there rowing with me, '' Rose seethed, `` So do n't guilt me into doing anything. ``

`` I 'm not trying to guilt you into anything, '' Albus groaned, `` I just thought that you might actually manage how his- ''

Albus cut himself off. Transformation. blush wine said Linda had been spew for the by few days. So had Matt. Linda had been unbalanced around the full moon moon. Was it possible that she, Linda, was a werewolf, too ? Albus stared dumbstruck at the tablet he was supposed to be decoding. It was kind sort of too often of a coincidence for them both to get ill at the Same time. But then why would Matt be so opposed to Linda finding out that he was a werewolf, if she was one herself ?

`` Albus ? '' Rose asked.

`` Rose- '' he paused. Would jump really tell him if Linda was a werewolf ? Probably not. `` Never brain. ``

`` Er, ok, '' blush wine shrugged.

The ease of the category dragged by. As soon as the bell rang, Albus grabbed his stuff and nonsense and ran out of the room. He had to happen John and Kaden. They had to obtain out if Linda really was a wolfman or not.

Albus made it to the vulture 's Den in record clip. Neither John or Kaden were there yet. Come to think of it, Kaden had grade anyway, so he would n't even be there. But bathroom did n't. Albus tossed his bag down and began pacing around the room.

John entered the way a short while later. Albus looked up and ran over to him.

`` John ! '' Albus shouted.

`` What ? '' lav asked, thoroughly confused.

`` I had to better half with Rose during Ancient Runes since flatness was n't there. Guess who else was n't there ? Linda. And she was n't in Potions either, '' Albus said quickly.

`` So ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked.

`` I asked Rose about it and she said that Linda 's been ill the past few mean solar day, '' Albus continued.

`` But she 's been in class, '' lav pointed out.

`` I know, that 's portion of it ! '' Albus replied, `` Can you think of anyone else who goes to class even when he 's ill ? ``

whoremonger paused and then his oculus widened in shock. `` Matt ! hold, are you thinking- ''

`` Linda 's a werewolf, '' Albus said.

`` You really think ? '' John asked.

`` Well, I obviously do n't know for sure .... ''

`` What about the last full moon ? Was she sick then ? ''

`` I do n't commend, '' Albus sighed, `` I did n't really pay aid, did you ? ``

`` Nope, '' King John said, `` But seriously ? ``

`` I do n't know. I mean, it 's potential, but if she 's a wolfman, why was Matt so afraid of her finding out he 's one ? ``

`` effective point, '' toilet sighed.

`` We 've got to find out. ``

`` I know, we can ask lusterlessness ! '' John said, `` Because she would 've been with him in the screech Shack, right ? ``

`` Not necessarily, '' Albus shook his head, `` If Wolfsbane works for her, she could n't hold been near him. ``

`` Oh, right hand, '' Saint John the Apostle replied, `` But maybe he 'd know anyway. ``

`` Or maybe not. Maybe he has n't got a clue, but if he did hump he would n't be so worried about her finding out about him, '' Albus said.

`` And then he and blush wine could make up. ``

`` Exactly, '' Albus grinned. He wanted nothing more than Rose and Matt to make up. `` Let 's go see if he 's awake. ``


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and trick practically ran to the hospital wing. They slowed down as they neared it and tried to face as daily as they could as they walked in. Madam Pomfrey was busybodied with a patient role, so she did n't even discover them as they made a beeline for Matt 's bed.

Albus yanked the drapery back and shut them again once lavatory and himself were inside. To his relief, Matt was come alive this time. He looked beat, but he was awake.

`` Hey, mat, '' Albus said.

`` Hey, Albus, '' Matt replied, `` How are you ? ``

`` All rightfulness, '' Albus said, `` How about you ? ``

`` Tired, '' mat sighed, `` Er, how is rose wine ? Is she still ignoring us ? ``

`` Pretty lots, '' Albus said quietly.

John nodded and then glanced at Albus. Albus took a deep breath. He had n't really thought about how he was going to ask matt about this.

`` Are you two ok ? '' Matt asked tentatively.

John poked Albus. Albus glared at him and then turned back to lustrelessness. `` Well, we sort of wanted to ask you something, '' Albus lowered his part, `` I 'm sure you 'll think its mental .... ''

Matt stared at him curiously. `` Er, all right, what is it ? ``

`` I was talking to resurrect in antediluvian Runes- ''

`` I thought she was still ignoring us. ``

`` She was. But we were married person, since you were n't there. ``

`` What about Linda ? '' Matt asked.

`` She was n't there either, which is what I wanted to ask you about, '' Albus paused, `` Rose said Linda 's been ill the past few Clarence Day. I could n't really facilitate but notice that she was ill around the Saami sentence you were and well, Saint John the Apostle and I were sort of wondering if maybe, well, she was- ''

`` Like me ? '' flatness whispered. His eyes had widened in shock and he was staring incredulously at Albus and John.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus muttered, `` Told you it was mental. ``

`` It is, '' Matt said adamantly.

`` So you know she 's not ? '' St. John the Apostle asked, `` You saw her in here or something ? Or did Madam Pomfrey tell you ? ``

Matt smiled wryly. `` Of path not. Even if she was, I doubt Madam Pomfrey would assure me. You two missed the obvious clue that she 's not like me. ``

Albus turned to John, who shrugged.

`` Linda normally goes to the Australian school of black art, '' lustrelessness stated, `` The schoolhouse that I was n't allowed to go to. Obviously, if Linda was like me, she could n't go there either. ``

Albus felt like he should get smacked himself in the head. He turned to King John, who looked like he was about to erupt out laughing. How could they have forgotten about that ? It was staring them straight in the face and they completely overlooked it. Professor Killigan was prejudiced against wolfman. There was no way he would accept Linda if she was one.

`` Oh, right wing, '' Albus mumbled, `` Should have remembered that. ``

`` It 's actually kind of funny that you thought she was like me, '' mat smirked.

`` I guess she 's just got a cold or something, '' John shrugged.

`` Yeah, probably, '' Albus said. So much for the mind of rosebush and matte making up. Albus would just have to think of some other way to get them to be Quaker again.

`` When do you get to leave ? '' John asked.

`` Not sure, '' Matt sighed, `` Probably previous tomorrow, if I 'm lucky. ``

`` Hogsmeade is on Saturday, '' John said.

`` I know. I 'll be out for that, even if I have to sneak out when gentlewoman Pomfrey is sleeping, '' lustrelessness replied.

Albus did n't really intend ma'am Pomfrey would slumber through soul trying to pilfer out of the Ward, but he hoped Matt would be out in clip to go to Hogsmeade. It would be incredibly unjust if he was n't allowed to go.

******

The silence continued into the future day. Linda returned from her occult illness and went back to spending all her rid time with Rose and Amanda. Albus spent his sentence with john and Kaden in the Marauder 's Den.

Albus hated the silence more and Thomas More every day. It kept him up at night, but he could n't imagine of anything he could do about it. The row was mainly between Rose and matte. Albus could n't puzzle out it, but it was eating away at him like it was his own row. He was very gladiolus he was n't playing Quidditch in the forthcoming match. He would n't have been able to concentrate.

Matt did n't leave the hospital wing until Friday evening. gentlewoman Pomfrey had reluctantly let him leave in rules of order to go to Hogsmeade the succeed day.

Albus woke up not feeling nearly as activated as he probably should accept about going to Hogsmeade. He and rosiness had imagined going to Hogsmeade together since they were little Kyd. They plotted where they would go and what they would do. Both of them had been to Hogsmeade before, but never without one of their parents. The thought of going by themselves had always been exciting.

Now that the day had actually arrived, Albus could n't aid but feel a bit disappointed. He would n't be going with rosebush. Not while they were still in the midst of a row. It was either go with flatness and toilet, or ditch them and go with the girls. The latter was n't even a real alternative. He was still mad at Rose and if he decided to make up with her, he 'd have matte and whoremaster angry with him. He just had to face it ; going to Hogsmeade with rosiness was not an option.

Albus, Matt, and lavatory joined the queue of mass in the Entrance Charles Martin Hall later on in the break of the day. Matt and lav were more frantic than Albus was, but still more than subdued than the relaxation of the tertiary years.

`` We 've got to call back the stuff for the Halloween political party, '' Saint John the Apostle reminded them.

The Halloween company was that night. Albus had nearly forgotten about it over the past few days. It was another thing that would take in been More fun if they were n't fighting with the girls.

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We 've got to get Kaden 's stuff, too. ``

`` Merlin, he was jealous that we get to go and he does n't, '' King John smirked.

`` Ca n't blame him, '' Matt lowered his voice, `` I mean, this is the first off clock time we 'll get to try out the Hogsmeade theatrical role of the map. ``

Albus grinned. That was one portion about the Hogsmeade trip that Albus was still thoroughly excited about. He had the new map in his cloak scoop, all ready to go.

`` We can see who likes to go to the Hog 's Head, '' John grinned mischievously.

`` Hey, Amy used to go there, '' Matt said.

`` Really ? '' John asked.

`` Yeah, she liked how empty it was. ``

`` Seems like an awfully get down lieu, '' whoremaster said.

`` Where do you lot require to go first ? '' Albus asked as they gave their names to Filch.

`` Weasley 's, '' Saint John the Apostle said immediately, `` I 've got lading to buy there. And Kaden gave me a listing of material he wants me to get him, too. ``

`` Why does that not surprise me ? '' Albus smirked.

The male child walked the curt space into Hogsmeade once Filch checked their names off. It was a chilly autumn day. There was a rebuff breeze in the air and it was cloudy, but not the kind of swarm that threatened rain. They could n't have asked for better weather in late October.

Once they arrived, they hid behind a tree in order to look at the map. Albus glanced around to make sure as shooting nobody was watching and then pulled it out of his cloak. He muttered the incantation and soon, an inky sound reflection of Hogsmeade was on the yellowed paper.

`` Whoa, '' matt whispered, `` take care, Weasleys'is so crowded, you ca n't read any of the labels. ``

There were dots spilling out of the joke shop and even more inside, piled on top of each other. Albus was n't surprised in the slightest. His uncle 's shop was the most popular in Hogsmeade. There were more lowly ingathering of superman in the residuum of the shops and pubs. A slight few were in the Hog 's Head.

`` Anyone we know in the Hog 's fountainhead ? '' King John asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus said after he read the labels.

Albus wiped the map clean and then they set off for Weasleys'thaumaturgist Wheezes. It took them a piece to squeeze into the crowd, and once there, Albus and flatness quickly lost John to the concourse of pupil grabbing merchandise.

Both George III and teddy bear were behind the counterpunch, ringing up purchase as fast as they possibly could.

`` Hi Uncle George ! chemise ! '' Albus shouted.

`` Hey, Al ! '' George III shouted back.

`` Albus ! '' Teddy exclaimed, `` How 's your first Hogsmeade tripper ? ``

`` Great, '' Albus smiled, `` Are you coming to the Halloween political party ? ``

`` Would n't miss it, '' Teddy grinned, `` Victoire and Amy are going, too. ``

`` That 's skillful, '' Albus said, `` Are you dressing up ? ``

`` 'Course, '' Teddy laughed.

`` What as ? ``

`` Where would the fun in that be ? '' chemise winked.

John returned a slight patch later, arms laden with merchandise. He dumped it all on the counter and a few Skiving Snackboxes fell on the ground. Albus picked them up and smirked as he put them on the counter.

`` Stocking up for a year ? '' Albus asked.

`` Nah, this is just until future Hogsmeade trip, '' John said.

`` You 're one of my best customer, John, '' George laughed.

`` Do you really call for five Snackboxes ? '' flatness asked.

`` Definitely. soothsaying 's awful. And two are for Kaden, '' John replied.

King John paid for his leverage and then the group wandered down the road until they reached Gladrags Wizardwear. They slowly walked inside, only to notice that it was filled with giggly girls.

`` I 'd be happy if I never had to set metrical unit in here again, '' trick groaned as he gestured to a presentation of garden pink sparkly robes.

`` We just need to get our costume hooey and get out, '' Albus muttered, equally unhappy about having to jaw a clothing shop.

The three son tried to move as quietly as possible through the crowd of girls in ordination to incur their costume stuff. Albus immediately found a black shirt and gasp for his skeleton costume. He had bought glow in the dark paint at Weasleys'and one of his cousins was going to paint bone on the shirt and trouser with it.

John had purchased Muggle vampire teeth and Muggle case rouge at Weasleys', so all he needed was a blackness cape, which he found quickly. matte located a Edward Douglas White Jr. piece of paper, which was all he needed for his ghost costume. Albus got another white sheet, which they would cut up into strips for Kaden 's mummy costume.

`` Finally ! '' John exclaimed once they left the shop class, `` That 's my least favorite topographic point in Hogsmeade. ``

`` You should go to Madam Puddifoot 's, then, '' Albus laughed.

John Lackland shuddered. `` No way. I will never set foot in that hideous place. ``

`` Anyone want to go to the deuce-ace broom handle ? '' matte shivered.

`` Yeah, I could use with a Butterbeer, '' Albus agreed and pulled his cloak tighter. The wind had picked up and Butterbeer would be estimable to warm up up with.

Albus led his friends up the street and into the crowd together pub. It seemed that everyone had the idea of warming up with a Butterbeer. Albus and Matt snagged the live on vacate table while John Lackland went to the bar to get a few Butterbeers.

`` What do you think the company is going to be like ? '' lusterlessness asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` It 's not really common for there to be an actual company. Usually it 's just the feast. I guess they just want us to interact with the foreign students. Kind of like the Yule Ball for the Triwizard tourney. ``

`` I just ca n't look to see what people dress up as, '' whoremonger announced as he returned with the Butterbeers.

`` Think the instructor will enclothe up ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` I hope so, '' John grinned, `` Probably depends on the teacher, though. I could see Kendrick dressing up. And Longbottom. Not for sure about Slughorn. ``

Albus snorted into his Butterbeer. `` Slughorn, dress up ? Now that would be funny. ``

`` I think any of the teachers dressing up would be comical, '' mat laughed.

`` So, how long do you think it 'll be until Kaden endeavour sneaking into Hogsmeade ? '' John asked.

`` side by side trip, '' Albus said immediately, `` I know he 's plotting it. He asked me if I was taking the map today. I think he wanted it to cabbage in. ``

`` Are you going to let him stimulate it future time ? '' lusterlessness asked as he sipped his Butterbeer.

`` Probably, '' Albus nodded.

`` What if he gets caught ? '' mat asked.

Albus shrugged. `` He 'll get a couple detainment. It 's not like he 'll notice another two detentions. ``

`` Good full stop, '' Matt grinned and turned to John, `` You two spend half your waking prison term in detention. ``

`` It 's not that bad, once you get used to it. I think Filch is getting a bit fed up with us, though. He 's starting to pawn us off on the professors. ``

`` wellspring, when you spend every other Night with him, who can pick him ? '' Albus smirked.

`` Shut it, Albus, '' John laughed, `` Or next sentence we get caught, we 'll say Filch whatever we were doing was all your thought. ``

`` He 'll never consider you, '' Albus grinned.

`` Albus, '' a female person spokesperson said from behind him.

Albus turned around and saw Rose, Butterbeer in hand, with Amanda and Linda on either position of her.

`` rose wine, '' Albus muttered.

The mode at the tabular array quickly turned from joking around to tense up silence. Albus nervously glanced from Amanda to rose and back again. He looked at matte and toilet, who were both glaring at the girls.

`` All the tables are taken, '' Amanda sighed, `` Do you heed if we sit here ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` We were just leaving, '' Matt announced as he stood up, `` Right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' John agreed.

Albus nodded and stood up as well. He followed Matt and John through the crowded pub, looking back at the young lady. Amanda was the only one who was watching them leave.

`` Why could n't they have found some early table to sit at ? '' St. John the Apostle groaned after they were back outside.

`` I dunno, '' Albus muttered. He had been having fun joking around with mat and John, but as soon as the girls showed up, he was reminded once again of the rift that had formed in their group. `` Anywhere we have n't been yet ? ``

`` Madam Puddifoot 's, '' lusterlessness laughed.

`` Do n't even joke about that, '' John shuddered, `` But you know, we have n't been to the Shrieking Shack. ``

Matt groaned. `` You 're kidding, right ? ``

`` Nope, '' King John grinned and took off up the street, `` seminal fluid on, do n't even say you 're not going. Because you are. ``

Matt sent Albus a sear look and set off at a tiresome gait after John. Albus laughed to himself and followed them.

There were a couple hoi polloi leaning on the fence in strawman of the Shack. They were all one-third years. Albus figured the bang of the Shrieking hut wore off after the first couplet Hogsmeade trip-up. Albus and mat joined John, who was standing near a couple up female child who were looking at the Shack.

`` It 's the most frequent building in Britain ! '' a Ravenclaw named Ann Jacob told her friend.

`` Really ? '' the girl 's optic widened. Albus vaguely remembered that she was Muggle born.

`` Yeah, it 's haunted by ghosts ! '' Ann William Wymark Jacobs said excitedly, `` right hand, Albus ? ``

`` Er, yup, '' Albus nodded, `` specter. ``

`` I wonder if we could get inside ! '' the other young lady said.

`` You ca n't, '' Matt said quickly.

`` How do you know ? '' the female child asked.

`` My sis tried once, '' Matt answered, `` She graduated our first yr. The place is completely sealed. ``

`` Oh, '' the female child sighed, `` Would feature been cool. ``

`` We should get back, '' Matt said, `` We 've got to get our costumes quick. ``

`` good idea, '' Albus agreed.

The boy bade goodbye to the two Ravenclaws and headed back to the castle. They were all very tranquillise on the paseo back. Albus sunk back into his thought of how he should feature gone to Hogsmeade with blush wine. He hoped he 'd be able-bodied to go with her the next trip. Albus could n't imagine that he 'd still be mad at her when that came around. At least he hoped he wouldn't.

Kaden was waiting in the Marauder 's Den for them. He immediately bombarded them with interrogative sentence, and the rest period of the boys launched into a detailed description of their entire slip.

After Kaden 's curiosity was finally satisfied, the boy got to shape on their costumes. Matt, St. John the Apostle, and Kaden stayed behind in the Marauder 's Den to make Matt 's ghost costume and Kaden 's mummy costume while Albus set off to find one of his full cousin to paint his skeleton costume.

Gabriella agreed to make the costume. Not wanting to get hold the girls and ask Amanda to do it, Albus had been hoping Gabriella would. Gabriella was the most creative of all his full cousin and even though all he needed was somebody to perform a house painting charm, he figured Gabriella would do the best job.

`` What are you dressing up as ? '' Albus asked as Gabriella performed the charm.

`` A Veela, '' Gabriella replied.

`` Creative, '' Albus laughed.

`` My friend actually came up with it. A yoke of us are going as Veelas. ``

`` Well, you 've already got the hair, so it wo n't take much for you to dress up, '' Albus said.

Gabriella grinned and handed Albus his costume. `` Here you go. I 'll see you at the party. I 've got to go get ready. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus said.

When Albus returned to the Marauder 's Den, he was met not by his friends, but by a touch, mummy, and vampire. All three costumes were bright. matte looked just like a Muggle ghost, complete with eye mess and a daily round mouth hole. Kaden was wrapped in striptease of white sheet that were hanging off of him in various post. John 's costume was the best, in Albus 's opinion. He wore a black cape with a snowy shirt and sinister knickers underneath. He also had a red bow-tie on, which Kaden insisted would construct him face more vampirish. His face was completely covered in white-hot physical composition and he was wearing bright red lipstick that dripped onto his chin. When he grinned, he revealed pearly clean vampire fangs.

`` You lot aspect capital, '' Albus grinned, `` The Muggle costumes was definitely the way to go. ``

`` Put yours on, '' flatness said.

Albus nodded and went to his division of the way. When he came out, he was wearing his costume. Albus looked at his weaponry and they were glowing. Gabriella had done an fantabulous job with the picture charm. His chest was covered in a luminescence in the dark rib cage.

`` Brilliant, Albus, '' John grinned.

`` We 're going to take in the best costumes in the schoolhouse, '' Kaden announced, `` Are the missy still dressing up as Wiccan ? ``

`` No idea, '' Albus sighed. He had n't talked to grow about the costumes in weeks. `` supposition we 'll find oneself out. ``

Albus had no theme what to expect from the party. The professor had never sponsored a party before while he was at Hogwarts. He walked down to the Great Hall with Matt, John, and Kaden. They passed quite a few people on the way down and saw all sort of different costumes.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who read and reviewed this ! You Guy are awesome !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


When Albus walked into the Great manor hall, he stopped in his tracks. The room had been completely transformed. There were huge jack o'lanterns everywhere, lit up by candles. Realistic looking wanderer webs were draped across every airfoil. The four menage tables had disappeared and were replaced by spindly round wooden mesa. Fake spiders were crawling around the floor. pretender bats were flying around. Tables of food were set up everywhere. Cauldrons were smoking on top of them, emitting all variety of dissimilar colored smoke.

The professor were all milling about and talking with each other. Kendrick was dressed up as Merlin or Dumbledore, Albus could n't differentiate which. Neville was dressed as Godric Gryffindor, Patil as Rowena Ravenclaw, and even Slughorn was dressed as Salazar Slytherin. Polo was not dressed as Helga Hufflepuff, a fact John was agile to indicate out. He was probably dressed as some other celebrated Hufflepuff, but Albus had no idea who it was.

In fact, nearly all the prof were dressed up. The only one who was n't was Balladanis. He was wearing his common pristine black robe with the intricate silver fastenings. He was wearing a grim aspect as he brushed past Albus and his friends. His eyes narrowed a little at Saint John the Apostle but he quickly looked away. Albus thought this was odd, but did n't dwell on it.

As the elbow room gradually filled with more than and more students, Albus noticed that there were an alarming amount of money of them dressed up as his begetter. about were first years. Albus just kept staring as eleven-year-olds with plastic glasses and bastard scars on their faces walked past. He thought it was really really odd.

`` We 're surrounded by your dad, '' John laughed as another miniature Harry Potter walked by.

`` This is just weird, '' Albus muttered, shaking his head.

`` It 's form of funny, '' John Lackland laughed even harder.

`` Bet you would n't think that if everyone was dressing up as your dad, '' Albus replied.

`` And that kid 's dressed up as your uncle ! '' Kaden announced, pointing to a red-haired boy who could 've easily passed for a Weasley. In fact, he did n't really wait like he was dressed up at all, but Albus figured he was his Uncle Ron.

`` Uncle Ron would wish that, '' Albus smirked.

`` He would, '' someone said from behind Albus.

Albus turned around and saw the literal Harry potter with a collection plate of biscuits in hand. `` Hi, Dad ! ``

`` This has got to be the strangest party ever, '' Harry said, `` I 've never seen people dressed up as me before. It 's rather odd. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed. He did n't really like that so many multitude were dressed as his dad.

`` Too bad Ron is on responsibility tonight, '' Harry sighed, `` He would 've liked to see a kid dressed as him. Where 's rosiness ? ``

`` Er .... ''

Harry gave Albus a peculiar look. `` Is everything all right ? ``

`` Um, yeah, '' Albus mumbled, `` I guess. ``

`` fountainhead, you know I 'm always here if you need to blab out, '' Harry replied, `` I like your costumes, by the way. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus grinned, `` Kaden 's idea. ``

`` So far I have n't seen any early Muggle costumes, '' Harry pointed out, `` I 've got to go talk to Kendrick, so I 'll see you soon. ``

Albus nodded. `` See you later. ``

Once Harry left, Albus and his supporter wandered over to one of the food mesa. They loaded up denture with chicken and potatoes and diverse other stuff and nonsense and went to find seats.

`` looking at, Albus, '' lustrelessness pointed to the door, `` The female child are dressed as Muggle witches. ``

Albus looked up and saw rose, Amanda, and Linda strolling into the room dressed as the Muggle version of a witch. All three of them were wearing patently black robes, grim witch hats, and had painted their faces green.

Albus caught Amanda 's eye and they gave each other unaccented grin as the girls walked into the room.

`` Guess they could n't come up with any other ideas, '' John muttered.

`` We did harmonize on costumes before they stopped speaking to us, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I guess, '' trick said.

`` Looks like they 're coming over here, '' Matt groaned.

Albus set down his home and watched as the girls progressed towards them. Rose 's face was still flint, even in park. Amanda was leading them, so Albus figured she wanted to say hi, not Rose.

`` Hi, Albus, '' Amanda greeted them, `` lusterlessness, lav, Kaden. Great costumes. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` You, too. ``

Nobody else said anything. Albus stood awkwardly with Amanda and looked around at the grouping. blush wine was glaring at matt and vice versa. John and Kaden were shifting nervously around. Linda was staring at John, but not in a loathing way. It was Thomas More of a compounding between curiosity and repulsion, which Albus thought was kind of odd.

`` This is just so stupid ! '' Amanda finally exclaimed, `` Do you lot want to keep open fighting for the rest of the year ? ``

`` Not really, '' Albus muttered.

Rose sent a withering look at Amanda and then turned around and left in a huff. Amanda sighed and followed her. Linda shook her forefront and then ran after Amanda.

`` Well, that was awkward, '' Kaden announced a few seconds later.

`` Is this really what the eternal sleep of the year is going to be like ? '' Albus asked, looking pointedly at matte, `` Because I think I 'll go mad if it is. ``

`` fountainhead, Rose started it, '' Matt muttered.

`` You both started it, '' Albus snapped, `` And you both had better finish it. ``

`` It 's not that dewy-eyed, Albus, '' mat sighed.

`` It is n't ? '' Albus asked, `` What am I missing, then ? I was there. You two fought over whether Linda should be in the Room or not ! And we all said no, but rosiness is still upset over it ! I just do n't understand it. ``

`` Told you it was n't simple, '' lusterlessness said in barely more than a whisper.

`` They 're girls. zero is simple-minded with girlfriend, '' Saint John groaned, `` And do you know why it 's not simple, Matt ? ``

Matt shifted uncomfortably and looked away for a few seconds. `` Yeah, I do, '' he whispered.

`` Care to explain ? '' Albus asked, now thoroughly confused.

`` Not here, '' matte said, `` seminal fluid on, let 's go to the room. ``

Albus followed Matt out of the Great Hall with Gospel According to John and Kaden on either position of him. None of them said a word until they reached the marauder 's Den. They went inside and sat down on the article of furniture. lustrelessness stood up as soon as he sat down and then began pacing around. It reminded Albus of the prison term he explained about the Hallows back in their low year.

`` All right, what 's up with the girls ? '' whoremonger asked after Matt paced for a few moments.

lusterlessness stopped pacing and stood in front of them. `` Ok, here it goes. What do you cognise about vampire ? ``

`` Wait, what ? '' Albus shook his head word. What in the gens of Merlin did vampires make to do with the girls ?

`` What do you have intercourse about vampires ? '' Matt repeated.

John laughed. `` They vant to suck your blood ! '' he exclaimed in a bad Transylvannian accent. He opened his mouth and leaned towards Kaden 's neck.

`` Ew, '' Kaden moved away, `` vampire are afraid of Allium sativum and they ca n't see themselves in mirrors. They ca n't go out during the day and they turn into bats. Oh, and you have to wipe out them with a wooden stakes to the heart. ``

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` I do n't really hump much besides the whole blood sucking thing. ``

`` You know, '' lustrelessness began, `` You know nada about vampires, yet you knew enough about werewolves to envision out that I was one. ``

`` That was rosiness, '' Albus reminded him.

`` right, anyway, Kaden, those are the vampire as Muggles see them. They 're not like that. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden said.

`` What do vampires have to do with this anyway ? '' John Lackland asked, `` I just want to love why rose wine is so obstinate. ``

`` It 's just the way she is, '' Albus muttered.

`` Vampires, '' Matt continued, `` In the wizarding earthly concern, are the undead. They 're dead, but they 're still around, obviously. vampire feed on human blood, but if they do n't suck a human being completely dry, the dupe becomes a vampire themselves. ``

`` kind of like werewolves, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, I guess, '' matt replied, `` But not really. Anyway, they basically die but they do n't. They become immortal and stop aging. Someone could be bitten when they 're twenty and still see twenty two hundred geezerhood later. Their hearts stop trouncing and they run out of blood. That 's why they turn pasty white. Then, they need to feed on ancestry in order to pull round. They can either use human or animal blood. The vampire that like to desegregate into human fellowship prefer to use animal blood. All they need to pull round is blood. They do n't take intellectual nourishment. But they eat it to pretend they 're human. They do n't need to sleep either. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden asked, `` That is weird. ``

Albus never knew any of that. Now the vampire unit of measurement in Defense Department class was going to be incredibly easy.

`` How often do they imbibe blood ? '' Albus asked.

`` Depends on the lamia. most need to imbibe it every couple of week or so. ``

`` What happens if they do n't ? ''

`` They get watery, '' Matt explained, `` lamia are exceptionally warm and degraded, but if they have n't had any bloodline recently, they feel sapless and sick. ``

`` Like you do before the wide-cut moonshine, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, '' matte nodded, `` kind of like that. ``

`` Can they go out during the day ? '' John asked.

`` There 's a potion that they take so they can go out in the sun. The sun hurts them. Kind of like the moon for werewolves. ``

`` But what 's this got to do with Rose ? '' Saint John asked impatiently.

`` I 'm getting there, '' Matt said as he began pacing again, `` Anyway, vampires are fast and strong so they can enchant their prey. But they are also more beautiful than regular mankind. That way people are attracted to them. They 're also really really magnetic. When you meet one, you 're naturally attracted to them. It 's heavy to explicate, you 're just drawn to them. It does n't even matter if they 're a boy or a girl or if you 're a boy or a young lady. ``

Albus suddenly remembered the day the alien student arrived and he first laid eyes on Linda. She was beautiful. Albus had n't been able to shoot his eyes off her. But she did n't look particularly charismatic. After hearing Matt 's verbal description of a lamia, Linda did sound like one, except for the charismatic part. She hardly said a word.

`` So if a vampire walked through the door, I 'd immediately want to to go over to them ? '' John asked.

`` Pretty lots, yeah, '' Matt said.

`` How do you know all this ? '' St. John the Apostle asked.

`` Remember the program library at my house ? There are onus of vampire books there because of my dad 's job. I 've read a few of them. ``

`` wellspring, you 'll do great on whatever test Balladanis gives us on vampires when we get to that unit, '' John laughed.

`` Wait, '' Kaden looked at lustrelessness curiously, `` Muggles believe that vampire and werewolf hate each other, and did n't you say that 's genuine ? ``

`` Er, yeah, '' flatness said quietly, `` That 's pretty much it. But mostly the big rivalry is between werewolf and lamia who live away from whizz. There are pack of werewolves and covens of vampires who fight over territory and stuff. That does n't happen as much as it did years ago, but it still does occasionally, mostly in other countries. ``

`` So, you do n't really hate all vampire ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I 've never really met one, '' lustrelessness shrugged.

`` And what in the name of Merlin does this induce to do with Rose rowing with us ? '' lav asked exasperatingly.

Albus was getting a bit impatient as well. sure, he liked hearing about lamia. They were kind of interesting, but he mainly wanted to make love what Matt knew about Rose.

`` Linda is a lamia, '' Matt said simply.

The room was mute for a few minutes. Albus stared at Matt. Linda was a lamia ? It was possible. She did fit some of the characteristics, but it was still heavy to hold on. Albus had never met a vampire before, let alone one that was his age.

`` When did you visualise that out ? '' Albus asked.

`` As soon as she walked past the Gryffindor table, '' lustrelessness answered.

lavatory looked at him in awe. `` Wow, that 's impressive. You ought to go into the Department for the regulation and dominance of Magical Creatures. ``

`` Now that would be even more wry than my dad working there, '' Matt laughed, `` But I would have known she was a vampire even if I did n't eff so often about them. Werewolves and vampires can instantly know each other. ``

`` How ? '' Albus asked.

`` Smell, '' Matt said, `` lamia have a distinctive smell, but veritable thaumaturge ca n't tell. lycanthrope can, though. And vampire can smell out loup-garou. ``

`` And you did n't tell us ? '' trick asked incredulously.

`` I did n't see the point, until now. ``

`` Did n't see the period ? There 's a lamia at Hogwarts and you did n't think to tell us ? '' John the Divine shook his caput, `` There 's always a reason to recount us that kind of stuff. ``

matte shrugged. `` Well, you know now. ``

Albus was still processing the information. Linda was a vampire. Matt knew Linda was a vampire from the startle. Werewolves can sense vampires. Vampires can sense werewolves. That meant-

`` time lag, '' Albus began, `` Linda knows you 're a loup-garou, does n't she ? ``

mat sighed. `` Yes, she probably does. ``

`` Then why does it matter if she gets to go in the piranha 's Den ? '' John asked, `` Not that I want to let her in. ``

`` It 's the principle of the thing ! '' Matt replied, `` I just do n't see why Killigan let her go to his school but he would n't let me ! I know it 's stupid to forefend her because of that because it 's not her shift, but I just do n't get it. ``

Albus had n't even thought of that. Matt was right ; it did n't make signified. How was letting a vampire into a school any different from letting a werewolf ?

`` But if you had been let in, you would n't own moved here, '' toilet pointed out.

`` I know, and I 'm glad we moved, but it 's just not fair, '' lusterlessness sighed.

`` So, '' Kaden said loudly, `` There 's a vampire at Hogwarts. Who 's pedigree is she sucking ? ``

"That, is actually a good question, '' Albus said.

`` I have no idea, '' flatness replied, `` I 'm guessing she 's sucking carnal blood. Probably hunts in the forest. ``

`` What about the whole 'vampires are charismatic'affair ? '' Albus asked. Even if Linda did need to suck homo blood, he had no approximation how she 'd manage to tempt a human towards her. She seemed to obviate as many the great unwashed as possible.

Matt smiled wryly, `` That 's where it gets worry. The three of you do n't see her as charismatic, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said. privy and Kaden nodded.

`` That 's what I thought. It 's because you 're supporter with me. ``

Albus turned to look at John and Kaden. Both of them looked as confused as Albus felt.

`` Wait, what ? '' Gospel According to John asked.

`` Even way back when there were more plurality of werewolves and covens of lamia running about, it was possible for humans to affiliate with one or the early. Occasionally, a pack of werewolves would sort of 'adopt'a human being and the human would dwell with the pack. I mean, the man would leave for the full moon, but live with the pack the rest of the month. But if the man came upon a vampire, the human would be completely undesirable to a lamia because they were affiliated with werewolf. ``

`` And we 're affiliated with you, so Linda would n't want to suck our roue, even if she did suck human rip ? '' Albus asked.

`` Exactly, '' flatness replied, `` Remember how everyone seemed to constellate around Linda when she first came here ? Everyone except us. Even rose wine disliked her back then. ``

`` But she does n't now, '' Kaden reminded him.

`` I know. That 's because as Rose started spending more time with Linda, she spent less sentence with us, with me. She became less affiliated with me, so to speak. And then when we had that row, well, now she 's just affiliated with Linda. She 's completely under Linda 's personal appeal. ``

Rose was affiliated with a vampire ? Did this mean there was no hope of her reconciling with Matt ? Albus groaned inwardly. He really did n't like Linda now. She was putting a huge rift into their group.

`` Is it possible for a individual to be champion with both a lycanthrope and a lamia ? '' Albus asked quietly.

`` I think so, '' matt sighed, `` But rosiness wo n't even babble out to us. ``

`` I think the only when way she will is if we agree to let Linda into the piranha 's Den, '' Albus muttered, `` She 's just so stubborn. ``

`` But we do n't desire to let her in here, '' John the Evangelist groaned.

`` No, we do n't, '' lustrelessness agreed.

`` Do you think rosebush knows she 's a lamia ? '' Albus asked. Rose was smartness, but if she had found out Linda was a lamia, she probably would have told him. She told him matte was a werewolf, after all. Unless of course she discovered Linda was a lamia after the row.

`` No musical theme, '' Matt shrugged, `` Do you make out if she knows anything about lamia ? ``

`` Probably not a great deal, '' Albus answered.

`` Then she might not. Linda 's obviously trying to conceal that she 's a vampire. I bet she 'll find out when we do the vampire unit in defense team, though. ``

`` Unless we tell her first, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Are we going to ? '' John asked.

`` Would she even listen ? '' Matt asked.

`` I sort of think we should at least try to severalise her, '' Albus said, `` And Amanda, too. ``

`` I suppose, '' Matt sighed, `` But they 're always around Linda. ``

`` We 'll just take in to wait until she 's at Quidditch practice. I think the Australian team drill on Mon, so I guess we 'll expect until then, '' Albus said.

The room descended into quiet for a few minutes. Linda had definitely spiked Albus 's curiosity. He was mostly peculiar about why Linda had been allowed to go to the Australian School of Sorcery but matt had n't. What was the difference in letting a vampire attend than a werewolf ? Even if Linda did suck brute blood, there was still the potential for her to sop up human blood.

`` Bloody blaze, '' Kaden let out a low whistle, `` A vampire at Hogwarts. ``

Albus nodded. Kaden pretty much summed up what Albus was thinking. Linda being a vampire had shocked him more than Matt being a loup-garou. He was n't certain why, but maybe it was because slip 's dad had been a werewolf and he attended Hogwarts, but as far as Albus knew, no vampires had ever been there.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You Guy are awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The air at Hogwats the succeeding day reminded Albus a lot of what it was like the day of the Quidditch Final. It was the day of the first gear Quidditch lucifer of the Inter-School contender. Commonwealth of Australia would be playing New York. Albus was excited, but not as energise as he would have been if Hogwarts was playing. He did n't particularly care who won this catch. He was rum about Linda 's seeking attainment, though.

`` Hi, Al, '' someone said from butt Albus as he walked down to the sales pitch with matte, whoremonger, and Kaden.

Albus turned around and saw his dad. `` Hi, Dad ! Here to see the peer ? Or are you on duty ? ``

`` Just to see the match, '' Harry grinned, `` I 'm hoping to be able to see them all, especially the ones you and James get to play in. ``

`` I do n't really get to play in any of them, '' Albus pointed out.

`` You never know, '' Harry said, `` Well, I 'm sitting with Neville, so I 'll see you after the mate. ``

`` Bye, Dad, '' Albus waved as he ran ahead of them.

The boys found the right way seats and waited for the couple to begin. The weather was particularly prissy, especially for a late Oct day. The sun was out and there was only a slight duck soup in the unseasonably warm air.

`` It 's kind of odd to not be rooting for Gryffindor, '' Matt said.

Albus agreed. Nobody was segregated into home sections like they usually were during Quidditch matches. `` I do n't know who to root for. ``

`` Me either, '' lav lowered his articulation, `` I mostly just want to see how Linda plays. Never seen a vampire play Quidditch before. ``

`` She must be commodity. She 's only a back year and she 's on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` But she 's deity, '' lusterlessness reminded them, `` So she 's probably decades older than us at least. ``

Albus still found that aspect of lamia very strange. He sighed to himself and focused on the tar, where a few people were milling about. Albus could draw out prof Kendrick, Bartholomew Roberts, and Killigan, along with a few former people Albus did n't recognize.

`` Welcome, bookman, stave, and client to the first Quidditch match of the competition ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crowd a few minutes later, `` This will work exactly like regular Quidditch equal. Ludo Bagman of the section of Magical sportsman will referee this friction match. And now, I give you the Quidditch teams of the Adirondack academy of Magic and the Aboriginal Australian school day of sorcery ! ``

The New Yorkers were dressed in depressed Quidditch robes and the Aussie were dressed in fleeceable. Both teams entered the lurch with ling in their hands. Albus watched as each of their headwaiter shake hands. commercial traveller blew a whistle and all fifteen of them rose into the air.

`` And they 're off ! '' Todd Ian Smith, who was apparently the commentator for the inter-school matches, shouted, `` Haberino of New House of York catches the Quaffle and is flying to the Aboriginal Australian destination Charles William Post .... ''

It was a very fast pace friction match. The Quaffle passed back and forth between instrumentalist faster than Adam Smith could announce. Albus was very impressed. He also doubted he could fly as well as them and was variety of gladiolus he was n't playing.

Albus knew he should pay the closest aid to the pursuer, but he could n't help but gawk at Linda as she flew around the pitching. She was noticeably faster than the rest of the musician. Her anatomy was practically a fuzz every metre she darted in between the rest of the players.

`` Merlin, she 's immobile ! '' Albus exclaimed as Linda went from one end of the pitch to the other in simple seconds.

`` I do n't recall I 've ever seen anyone fly that fast ! '' Saint John gaped, `` And I 've been to dozens of Puddlemere match ! ``

`` Well, that would explain it, '' matt smirked.

`` Puddlemere has spate of debauched flier ! '' John shouted, `` It 's you who 's probably never seen anyone fly fast, what with you being a shank fan .... ''

Matt rolled his heart. `` She 's fast because of what she is. ``

Albus nodded. He kind of figured that. It did n't appear middling, though. None of the other teams had a lamia for a searcher. James obviously was n't a vampire and Albus doubted the New York Seeker was one either. He was a lot slower than Linda. It seemed like there should be some sort of rule that would prevent Linda from being on the Australian team. Although, Albus was n't sure Kendrick and Roberts knew Linda was a vampire.

`` New York scores ! '' Kathryn Elizabeth Smith shouted, `` 40-20 New House of York ! ``

Linda may have been fast, but New York seemed to experience improve chaser. Their vogue of playing reminded Albus of how he played with his cousins. When Albus played with Heather and Fred, it was almost like they shared a brain.

All of a sudden, Linda pellet across the rake, from the Australian goals to the bottom of the New York goals. Albus stood up and watched the New York searcher flew after her, but was meters behind. Linda peacenik for the ground and flew back into the air clutching something in her hand.

`` Is that ? '' John began.

`` The Snitch ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` It is, '' Albus stared as the two teams descended to the earth. It had only been fifteen minutes since the match started !

`` Linda morale of Australia has caught the snitch ! '' Smith announced, `` Australia wins 170-40 ! ``

`` That was the quickest plot of Quidditch I 've ever seen, '' John said.

Everyone agreed. Albus had never seen anyone catch the Snitch that fast before. If the other matches were like this one, Australia was going to bear the rivalry in the bag.

`` I 'm guessing this match wo n't be followed by a party in the rough-cut room ? '' Kaden asked as the boys got up from their seats.

`` Probably not, '' Albus laughed, `` Hogwarts did n't fiddle, so we 've really got nothing to celebrate. ``

`` Linda 's in Gryffindor, though, '' John pointed out.

`` Yeah, but I 'm betting near of the Gryffindors are going to be a bit bowl over at Linda 's seeking skills. I mean, James is well, but even he 's going to have problems going up against Linda. I think she 'd even make shimmy a run for his money, '' Albus pointed out.

`` James I can quiver her, '' John said confidently as they began the journey back to school, `` He 's a superb Seeker. ``

`` But she 's faster, '' Albus sighed.

`` She 's leaping to slip up eventually, '' Kaden said hopefully.

Albus certainly hoped so. Maybe the Beaters could just constantly pelt her with Bludgers throughout the all compeer so she would n't have a probability to find the Snitch.

They continued to walk alongside the forest on their way to the castle. The hair on the cover of Albus 's neck bristled and he looked quickly over his shoulder. It felt like mortal was watching him. He stopped in his data track and looked into the forest. He saw a dark chassis jump behind a tree diagram. somebody was in there.

`` Why 'd you discontinue, Albus ? '' Kaden asked.

`` There 's someone in the forest, '' Albus whispered.

`` Hagrid ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, '' Albus shook his head, `` Too humble to be Hagrid. ``

`` We should go observe out who it is, '' John announced.

`` Are you mental ? '' lusterlessness said, `` Whoever 's in there could be a liquidator or something ! ''

Albus was n't sure about that, but he was for sure that he was odd. He wanted to know who was lurking about the forest after a Quidditch match.

`` Maybe we should, '' Albus said.

flatness sighed. `` Albus, you 're supposed to be the sane one. ``

`` I want to go see who it is, '' Kaden said.

`` It 's the Forbidden Forest ! '' Matt groaned, `` Forbidden ! If we get caught, we 'll be in vast trouble ! Look at everyone walking around. Someone is going to catch us. ``

That was a good point. But at the like metre, Albus really wanted to recognize who it was. He could n't just stand there and not go find out who the secret figure was ....

`` Al, '' a voice said from behind him.

Albus jumped and turned around. His dad was standing there, looking at him curiously. `` Oh, hi Dad. ``

`` What are you doing ? '' Harry asked.

`` Er, there 's someone in the timber, '' Albus replied.

Harry peered into the wood and then turned back to Albus with a grim look on his nerve. `` Thanks for letting me bonk, Al. I 'll determine it out. I want all four of you to go back to the castle and go straight to Gryffindor Tower. ``

`` Who do you think it is ? '' Albus asked. His dad seemed rather worried.

`` I have a few guesses, '' Harry replied, `` If it 's anyone important, I 'll let you sleep together. ``

Albus nodded and started to take the air back to the castle with his friends. He glanced back at his dad and saw his Patronus running in the face-to-face direction. A few people were pointing at it and whispering.

`` Who do you cogitate it is ? '' Kaden asked.

Albus shrugged. `` Dunno. I mean, the but multitude I can think of are Washburn and Willinson, but they have n't been sighted in calendar month. ``

`` It 's got to be one of them, '' john said, `` Why else would your dad get so disquieted about it ? ``

`` But he could n't even see who it was, '' Matt pointed out, `` It might turn out to be nothing. ``

`` Scary, though, '' Kaden shivered, `` One of them coming back. I mean, I 've never met either of them, but if they 're anything like Quinton .... ''

`` Do n't worry, '' Albus assured him, `` We 'll just go back to the common room and we 'll be very well. ``

The boys hurried back into the castling and up to Gryffindor tower. almost of the masses around them were talking about the friction match, but Albus overheard a few people talking about his dad 's Patronus.

The Gryffindor vulgar elbow room was packed when they entered it. There was a very expectant radical of people in the eye shouting about Quidditch and Albus had no doubt that Linda was in the middle of it, even if she did n't need to be. Albus did n't see rose or Amanda anywhere and figured they were with Linda. Albus had a flutter thought that he needed to tell them about what he saw, but decided not to since Rose was n't speaking with him. He just did n't feel like telling her anything significant while she was still giving him the mute treatment. He was starting to find a bit dejected that it had been going on so long.

Albus and his Quaker found a board and sat down. They were quickly joined by Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn.

`` Can you believe she caught the Snitch that fast ? '' Lily asked.

`` That was incredible, '' Albus agreed, `` But she 's going to get it hard to beat Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Hugo sighed, `` Everyone is trying to figure out how she 's so fast. Fred thought she had some sorting of special broom, but she denied it. ``

`` Well, she obviously would n't intromit to that, '' Ashtyn rolled her eyes.

`` Maybe Rose could ask her, '' Lily suggested.

`` I doubt Rose would do that, '' Albus muttered.

`` Are you still rowing with her ? '' Lily asked.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus said.

`` Why ? cipher 's told me what your row was even about, '' Lily huffed.

`` It 's not your byplay, Lily, '' Albus sighed.

`` semen on, '' Lily whined, `` I 'm your sister. ``

`` And I do n't state you everything, '' Albus said, `` So give it a rest. ``

`` Can I have everyone 's attention ? '' someone shouted from the portrait hole.

Albus looked up and saw Neville standing there. Everyone immediately quieted down. teacher rarely went into the rough-cut way. In fact, the only clock time they did was when something bad happened or when Gryffindor had a spectacular Quidditch win.

`` I do n't want anyone leaving the green room for now, '' Neville said in an unusually stern tone.

`` What 's going on ? '' Georgia asked.

`` Someone was spotted near Hogsmeade and in the forest, '' Neville replied.

`` Who ? '' Fred asked.

`` The Aurors do n't want us to disclose that information yet, '' Neville said, `` I 'll be back when we know more. ``

Neville left and the common room erupted into whispering. Albus turned to his friends, who had all turned a few shades lighter after hearing Neville 's announcement.

`` It 's got to be, '' mat whispered, `` They would n't shut us in if it was n't someone unsafe. ``

Albus nodded and swallowed hard. He knew he was perfectly safe in the mutual room, but could n't help feeling a bit scared.

`` I bet it 's Washburn ! '' someone shouted from across the mutual room.

`` Who 's Washburn ? '' one of the for the first time eld piped up.

`` wickedness good luck charm teacher, '' someone replied.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn said, `` He tried to belt down my brother ! ``

`` Mine, too ! '' Lily put in.

`` And he tried to down my baby, '' Victor Hugo added.

Lily, Ashtyn, and Hugo started telling the other first class what had happened to Albus and his friends. Albus groaned and shook his head as all four XI year olds watched him.

`` indirect request we could go to the room, '' Albus muttered.

`` Let 's go to the hall, '' John suggested, `` I 'll bet it 's discharge. ``

The male child left the common room ( much to the dismay of Lily, Hugo, Ashtyn, and their growing mathematical group of on-lookers ) and went up to Albus 's dorm, which was thankfully empty.

Albus, flatness, and John all sat on their bottom and Kaden sat on the foundation of Albus 's. None of them said a Good Book. Albus supposed that deep down in his mind he knew Washburn would come back, but he tried not to think about it. He figured Washburn was after the Resurrection endocarp. That meant he would n't try and break off into the castling, did n't it ?

No, it did n't. Albus 's gaze fell upon his bole, where the Invisibility Cloak resided. If Washburn still wanted to unite the Hallows, he 'd need that cloak. Albus gulped. Washburn was going to try and split up into the rook. Albus did n't experience when, but he knew it would materialize at some point.

******

Harry never returned to the castle to tell Albus what had happened. Neville came back to the common room an hour or so later and told everyone they were free to leave behind if they wanted to, but he did n't disclose any details. Albus and his admirer stayed in the plebeian room, hoping Harry would eventually find Albus, but he never did.

The Great Hall was filled with much More yack than was pattern on Monday morn. Albus and his friends sat down at the Gryffindor tabular array and James IV immediately passed Albus a copy of the Daily Prophet.

`` They did n't catch him, '' James said as he tossed Albus the paper.

Albus took it and all four male child read the presence page article at the Saami time.

Washburn Sighted in Hogsmeade ; Mysterious Man Sighted in Forest

Jameson Washburn, wanted for torturing underage
students and the illegal use of Legilimency on an
underage student, was sighted by an anon. witch
in Hogsmeade yesterday afternoon.

The sighting took lieu a few hours after the for the first time
Quidditch mate in the tournament between Hogwarts,
the Australian school of Sorcery, and the Adirondack
Academy of legerdemain. The anonymous witch stated that
'a man ran from behind the Hog 's Head up towards the
pitcher's mound. He looked like Washburn .'

Harry Potter, promontory of the Auror Department, was on the
Hogwarts terra firma at the clock time and reported quickly to
the scene. No signs of Washburn were found and Potter
is for certain he had Disapparated quickly.

Potter had previously been investigating the Forbidden
Forest, after receiving a tip from a scholarly person that
mortal had been lurking around. Nobody was found.

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry went into
lock down after the hypothesise sighting of Washburn.
scholar were not informed about the state of affairs. The
Auror Department has not said whether additional
aegis will be given to the school. Currently, an
Auror is assigned to the schoolhouse at all fourth dimension, after the
kidnapping of a student by Quinton Willinson ( currently
residing in Azkaban ) last-place Spring.

'We do n't want people to worry. We 're not even for sure
whether either sighting was actually Washburn or not ,'
Potter told reporters.

Albus set down the paper and turned to look at his friends. There was no doubt in his mind that that man in the timber had been Washburn. He had gotten away again. For somebody who seemed incompetent at just about everything, Washburn certainly was good at escaping.

`` I wonder where he 's concealment, '' privy said, `` I mean, he 's probably somewhere around here, you 'd think ? ``

`` I bet he Apparated someplace far away, '' Albus replied, `` He 's not going to desire to vex around and get caught. ``

`` Yeah, that 's true, '' trick said, `` But I bet he 'll be back. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` Willinson might even go with him. I wonder where he is. ``

`` I hope he 's far away from here, '' Matt said, `` We 'd better get to class. ``

Albus was happy that they had caution of Magical Creatures first because he would be able to continue talking about Washburn as they observed firecrabs.

`` You do n't think they 'll cancel the Hogsmeade trips, do you ? '' John asked once they had walked a safe length away from the Slytherins.

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` They did n't cancel them when Sirius escaped from Azkaban. ``

`` I hope they wo n't, '' John said, `` They could just birth Aurors patrolling the Village. That 'll hold on Washburn away. ``

`` There are already Aurors patrolling the school, '' matte pointed out, `` So I 'm trusted they 'll be patrolling Hogsmeade now, too. ``

`` Just as long as they do n't contribute any dementors here, I 'll be felicitous, '' Albus shivered. He had never actually seen a dementor, but he knew enough about them to dread them.

`` fountainhead, that did n't exactly work out well when Sirius had escaped, did it ? '' Gospel According to John replied.

`` I know, but still .... '' Albus 's vocalism trailed off.

`` Dementors do n't even guard Azkaban anymore, so I do n't see why they would get sent here, '' John said as he stopped his firecrab from escaping.

`` I wonder where they went, '' Albus pondered, `` I 've never seen one. ``

`` Me neither, '' John shook his head, `` But that 's a well point. What did happen to them all ? ``

`` That 's one thing my dad never told me, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I 've never seen one either, '' mat shivered, `` But my dad has. He 's had to deal with them at work- ''

`` So he knows where they were sent ? '' trick interrupted.

`` No, '' lustrelessness shook his header, `` He dealt with them in Australia. There are a lot of them on the outback. There 's hardly anyone living around there, so every once in a patch, they 'll descend on some tiny Ithiel Town they come upon. Then some crone or wizard news report it and my dad or someone else from his place would have to go illuminate them out. ``

`` That would be a horrible job, '' St. John the Apostle said quietly.

`` He hated it, '' Matt replied, `` He 'd come base all shaky and depressed and Mum would feed in him loads of deep brown. Then they 'd go talk of the town by themselves. He refused to say me and Amy what he hears when he comes across dementors, though. Amy asked loads of metre, but he never told. ``

`` My dad wo n't enjoin me what he hears either, '' Albus said, `` It 's got to be awing. ``

`` Neither of my parents have ever seen dementors, '' John said, `` I think my parents lead relatively formula lifespan compared to yours. ``

`` No one in my home leads a rule life, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine either, '' Matt agreed.

`` Well, hopefully your dad will fascinate Washburn and Willinson and then you can have a somewhat normal life, Albus, '' Saint John said.

`` Maybe, '' Albus shrugged.

`` As for me, I like a little excitement in life, '' John grinned.

`` You can accept all of mine, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine, too, '' Matt smirked.

`` Nah, '' King John shook his straits, `` I 'll ready my own. ``


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


In all the excitement of the potential sighting of Washburn in Hogsmeade, Albus nearly forgot about talking to Rose that evening. He was sitting in the common elbow room trying to say his defence Against the shadow Arts al-Qur'an when Saint John the Apostle prodded him.

`` What ? '' Albus looked up at John.

`` Linda just went to Quidditch practice, '' toilet gestured to the portrayal hole, which just closed behind someone, `` We can talk to blush wine now. ``

Albus nodded and closed his account book. He had to intromit that he was a bit nervous about telling rose that Linda was a vampire. He had a feeling she would n't select it well. They were going to possess to go bad this to her very nicely.

It was n't that Albus was worried that rosebush would be upset that Linda was a lamia. Albus knew that would n't bother her in the slightest. It was the fact that Albus was the one who figured it out that he was worried about. Albus fully expected rose to deny that Linda was a vampire for the sole reasonableness that she had n't figured it out herself.

`` I guess we 'd better, '' Albus said as he got up. He glanced around the common room and his oculus rested on the mesa Rose and Amanda were sitting at.

Albus walked over to her table with lusterlessness, John, and Kaden following. The two little girl looked to be working on homework.

`` rosebush, '' Albus sat down adjacent to her, `` We need to blab out to you about something. ``

blush wine put down her quill and looked up. `` Is it about Washburn ? If you 're worried about him coming back, do n't be. He ca n't get into the rook. ``

`` It 's not about him, '' Albus sighed, although he had a tactile sensation Washburn could get into the castling if he wanted.

`` Then what ? '' Rose said shortly.

`` It 's about Linda- ''

`` Then I do n't want to try it, '' pink wine interrupted.

`` Rose, it 's of import, '' Albus insisted, `` Just come public lecture to us. ``

`` No, '' Rose said a bit louder, `` I know you lot do n't care her, but I do. And I do n't need you telling me who I can and ca n't be protagonist with. ``

`` That 's not what we 're going to state you, '' Albus groaned, `` There 's just something about her you should screw. ``

`` Just talk of the town to them, Rose, '' Amanda said, `` To be honest, I 'm sick of you ignoring them. ``

Rose looked a bit taken aback. `` All right, fine. '' She shoved her books into her bag a bit harder than necessary and stood up.

Albus said nothing but lead everyone out of the common room. cipher said a word until they were in the marauder 's Den. rosebush sat in one of the hot seat and folded her branch across her chest of drawers.

`` What ? '' she asked, `` What do you possibly have to order me ? ``

Albus glanced at Matt, who nodded. Albus took a deep hint. `` Linda is a vampire, '' he said quietly.

Rose 's mouth fell undecided and then she burst out laughing. `` Are you bloody insane ? How in the name of pigeon hawk did you possibly derive up with that stupid estimate ? ``

Albus groaned. `` It 's not a stupid mind. It 's true. And flatness told us. ``

Rose rolled her eyes and glared at Matt. `` Of course. You 're the one who hates Linda the most. ``

`` rosiness, it 's true ! '' Matt insisted, `` Do you honestly think that I would just randomly claim individual was a vampire ? For all the differences between vampires and lycanthrope, they both get discriminated against. ``

`` Oh, I do n't get it on. Maybe because you want me to check being friends with her ? '' rosebush shouted.

`` Well, that would be stupid of me because I know you would n't stop being friends with her because of that, '' flatness said quietly, `` After all, you 're friends with me. Or at least you used to be. ``

`` I still am, '' Rose whispered.

Albus smiled to himself. That was promising. Maybe their friendship was n't totally destroyed.

`` But do n't you lot think that if Linda was a vampire, I would have figured it out ? '' Rose asked, `` I mean, I was the but one to reckon out that Matt 's a wolfman. ``

`` How often do you jazz about vampires, blush wine ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, not much, I guess, '' Rose said sheepishly, `` But still, how do you love ? ``

Albus opened his bag and pulled out his defense lawyers Good Book. He tossed it at rose wine. `` Read the bit about vampires. ``

Rose caught the book and opened it up. She began to learn it with Amanda indication over her shoulder joint. A few mo later, rosiness set the record down. Her boldness was pale.

`` You 're right, '' she whispered and then turned to matt, `` Is that why you do n't like her ? ``

`` form of, '' Matt shrugged, `` It 's not the fact that she 's a vampire. It 's the fact that she knows I 'm a werewolf. ``

`` Oh, '' rosebush nodded, `` And she 's from Commonwealth of Australia and Killigan does n't like werewolves. I get it. But, wait, how derive Killigan lets Linda go to school but he would n't let you ? ``

`` No idea, '' Matt sighed, `` It 's a mystery. ``

The room descended into an awkward silence and Albus looked at all of his friends. rose wine still looked a little shocked and Amanda did as well.

`` So, '' Albus began, `` Are you going to continue ignoring us, Rose ? ``

`` Are you going to let Linda make out in here ? '' rose asked.

`` No way, '' Albus, Matt, John, and Kaden said at once.

rosebush sighed. `` Fine. I 've missed you lot, but I am still going to spend time with Linda. I guess I 'll just split my sentence, then. ``

Albus grinned. `` skillful. But next Hogsmeade trip, you 're coming with us. ``

******

Over the next distich of weeks, rose and Amanda began spending Sir Thomas More and More time with Albus and the other son. Albus was thrilled about it, especially since after a few 24-hour interval passed, it was like Rose and matte had n't rowed at all. nonentity ever brought up the topic of Linda, though. Rose and Amanda both spent time with Linda, usually in the library, but Albus did n't particularly heed. He kind of liked having time to expend just with Matt, Gospel According to John, and Kaden.

John and Kaden found it increasingly difficult to pull buffoonery due to the fact that Hogwarts was being patrolled by more Aurors since the Washburn sighting. Teachers, prefects, and the heading boy and daughter were also patrolling more often than they used to. Albus was secretly happy about this since he had an increasing care of Washburn breaking into his hall to steal the invisibleness Cloak. lavatory and Kaden, on the former hired hand, came back to the unwashed way ranting about how they could n't pull off some prank or the other due to an Auror or prefect finding them. flatness did n't seem to have an sentiment on the guinea pig and Albus suspected he would be happy so long as Killigan stayed away from him.

The next Quidditch match was in the beginning of December, and although that was still a month away, Wood increased praxis to three days a week instead of two. Wood was especially elusive on James River since the succeeding lucifer would be between Hogwarts and Australia. Wood was determined to beat Australia and that meant James would have to try and fly faster than Linda. shift was working with him one on one during all the practices.

The next junior dueling tourney was coming up as well and Albus was determined to actually duel during this one. He did n't handle if both his pegleg were broken, he would still go.

Between his various exercise and classes, Albus did n't have lots time for anything else. All his teachers were increasing the oeuvre warhead, especially Balladanis. He started packing to a greater extent and more into each deterrent example and had begun assigning hebdomadal essays. And since all the lessons were practical, Albus had to take the book to do the essays. There were no greenback from social class to use.

Albus and the rest of the bookman no longer bothered taking their books and parchment out at the start of class. In fact, the majority of Albus 's course did n't even vex sitting down. Albus wondered why Balladanis even bothered to put the desks back at the end of class, since he had yet to pick up of any of the years having an actual speech in that class.

Due to this, Albus was completely shocked when Balladanis told the class to sit down at the beginning of United States Department of Defense in the get-go of November. Albus turned to lusterlessness and john, who looked equally surprised. Balladanis, on the other helping hand, was acting like this was perfectly normal.

Albus sat down in between matt and John amongst the rustle of the sleep of the class.

Balladanis stood in front line of his desk and looked out at the students. There was a large trunk in straw man of him which reminded Albus of the first day of class. But why would Balladanis add a Boggart back to course ? Matt told Albus that Balladanis was n't even using Boggarts in his helper Roger Huntington Sessions anymore.

`` Today 's lesson will be part talking to, '' Balladanis announced, `` The reason for this being that the finical beast we are studying today is not in your textual matter Scripture. ``

The social class erupted in more susurration and Albus distinctly heard pink wine gasp.

`` settle down, '' Balladanis said, `` The puppet is not in your Holy Writ because it is extremely rare and to the highest degree wizards will go their entire lifespan without ever encountering one. Because of this, it is not normally in a third year curriculum. The creature is usually studied in advanced N.E.W.T. defense team Against the Dark liberal arts only. I however, believe this brute is extremely good to tierce year defense and am adding it in, despite the fact that it is not in your book. ``

Albus was on the bound of his keister now. He was staring directly at the trunk in front of Balladanis, where the beast probably resided. It could n't be that dangerous, could it ? Otherwise, Balladanis would n't induce brought one. Although, there was n't much that Balladanis could do that would actually surprise Albus. He was a very odd teacher.

`` The animate being I am talking about is an anamatek, '' Balladanis said as he began pacing back and forth in front of the tree trunk. He stopped in front of Rose, Amanda, and Linda 's board. `` Does anyone know what an anamatek is ? ``

Albus had never heard of one in his life-time. Rose did n't put her hand up either. The but bridge player in the class that went up was Linda's.

`` Yes, miss Morales, '' Balladanis said.

`` An anamatek is a shape-shifter, but it is dissimilar from a boggart. anamateks are forced to change into whatever form the wizard controlling them wants, '' Linda explained.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis began pacing again, `` anamateks are very strong and powerful creatures. It takes a very strong and powerful witch or hotshot to control them. Not many are able to do so. But if a beldam or sensation can, the anamatek must transmute into whatever form the wizard wants.

`` This of course is very dangerous if a dark wizard gets detainment of one. Can you imagine if Voldemort had been able to control a few anamateks and had them transform into chimaeras ? ``

The entire room was silent. Albus shivered at the thought of an regular army of Chimera, especially in the men of Voldemort.

`` Luckily for us, anamateks are extremely rare and the legal age of wizards ca n't hold in one, let alone an army of them. The few anamateks that exist in the world reside in warm climate and they prefer to delay hidden amongst trees or bushes. Anamateks are rarely sighted in Britain and I would guess that there are n't more than four or five in the total country. They are a bit more usual in warmer mood such as the West Saxon United States, Latin USA, South U.S.A., Africa, and Australia. However, you could search all of these countries extensively and never come across one.

`` Anamateks do not like mavin because they do not need to be controlled. Not only can wizards control what the anamatek turns into, they can also make it do whatever they please. When they are not controlled, they can turn into whatever they like and usually choose a particularly serious creature in parliamentary procedure to dissuade wizards from capturing them. They can not, however, turn into human, for the most part. There are exceptions to that. Certain knock-down witches and wizards have had success turning them into humans, but they do not act like humans. No anamatek can turn into a man on its own. ``

Balladanis paused and stopped next to his trunk. `` I have captured an anamatek. I captured it many yr ago and it has been under my controller ever since. Having an anamatek at my disposition provides a gravid learning opportunity for all of you. Can anyone guess why ? ``

Rose 's handwriting pellet into the air. `` Yes, Miss Weasley, '' Balladanis said.

`` You can have it call on into whatever we 're studying and we can determine to fight it instead of having to fight a real one. That way, you can control what its doing and none of us will get hurt, '' pink wine answered.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis said, `` Before stratum, I performed a spell which caused the anamatek to turn into a kappa, which I hope you are all aware that we are currently studying. When I say so, get up and form a line in front of my desk. You will be performing the spell you learned finis social class to try and drive the anamatek, which is going to face and act exactly like a kappa. ``

`` Sir ? '' Malfoy raised his hand.

`` Yes, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` Sir, are you going to evidence us the magical spell to bring an anamatek under a star 's control ? ``

`` No, Mr. Malfoy, I am not, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` First, it 's not just one spell, it is a set of extremely difficult spells, beyond N.E.W.T. level. 2nd, there is much argument as to whether the piece are Dark conjuring trick or not. Third, it would be pointless since none of you would have the potentiality of performing such thaumaturgy and will likely never have the opportunity to perform it. fourth part, the master would not be happy if I did so. I will also not sign up any line to admit any of you into the Restricted section of the library to research the spells. ``

Malfoy scowled at this and Albus stifled a laugh. It did n't storm him in the svelte that Malfoy would want to study the magical spell. Albus was extremely singular as to how Balladanis managed to perform them, and how he had come across the anamatek in the inaugural place. Albus doubted that he would tell that story, though. Balladanis never talked about his past.

`` Everyone get up ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus hastily stood up and watched as the ease of the course of instruction did the same. pink wine and Linda shoved their Federal Reserve note into their handbag, but nobody else had bothered to take notes. The opinion had n't even crossed Albus 's idea. He was so use to not taking notes in Defense.

Balladanis moved the tabular array to the slope of the room and Albus joined the queue forming in front of the torso. He stood on his tip-toes and peered around lavatory to try and charm a glance of the anamatek when it emerged from the trunk.

Balladanis pointed his sceptre at the torso and it shot undefended. nothing happened for a few seconds and then a slimy, scaly kappa crept up over the top of the trunk and climbed out. It stretched out its net hand and started towards Janie Creevey, who was first in the line.

Janie held up her wand and muttered the spell. The kappa was shot back towards the automobile trunk and Balladanis nodded at Janie. She stepped to the side and Karina walked forward as the kappa recovered.

The queue moved forward and Albus was capable to get a good looking at the anamatek. It looked exactly like a kappa. If Albus did n't know any effective, he would say that it was a real kappa.

Balladanis made everyone do the spell until they could do it successfully. rose wine and Linda got it on their first endeavor, but Amanda had a bit of hassle. Albus had a feeling she would be working with the anamatek in her future extra help session. St. John the Apostle managed to make achiever on his first try and he stepped to the face and Albus stepped forward.

The anamatek crept towards Albus, who held up his wand. Kappas did n't really daunt him in the slightest, yet his heart had begun pounding faster. The anamatek is what scared him a bit. The thing had the potential to change into something life-threatening like a Chimaera at any moment. How much control did Balladanis really have over the thing ?

Albus shouted the spell and the anamatek was thrown back against the trunk and landed with a garish crack.

`` Very honorable, Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis smiled ever so slightly, `` A few of the rest of you might care to charter banker's bill of the force Mr. ceramist put behind his charm. A determined kappa would have been able to find very quickly from near of your spells. Mr. Potter, on the former manus, would have been able to escape if this had been a real kappa. ``

Matt 's routine was following and Albus stood succeeding to John to keep an eye on him. The kappa was only slightly deterred by matte 's first spell and he had to try about three times to get it to work.

`` Now I know what Balladanis is going to birth me do tomorrow night, '' matt whispered to Albus as they watched Malfoy lease on the kappa.

Malfoy sent the kappa slamming into the tree trunk with almost as practically force as Albus had, earning him a slight grinning from Balladanis as well.

`` Where in the name of Falco columbarius did Balladanis get that thing ? '' John exclaimed after they 'd bequeath the classroom.

`` No thought, '' Albus shrugged, `` But I wish he 'd tell us. ``

`` He wo n't, '' Matt sighed.

`` I know, but I still want to have intercourse, '' King John said, `` And what did he do for a living before this ? I mean, I do n't think teacher normally come upon anamateks. ``

`` Probably not. I do n't think my dad has ever seen one and he 's an Auror, '' Albus pointed out.

`` They are extremely rare in United Kingdom, '' rose wine ran up future to Albus, `` I bet Balladanis lived in some other country before he started teaching here. Africa or Australia or one of those places where anamateks are more than common. ``

`` Yeah, but they 're not exactly common in those stead either. My dad has n't seen one either and he worked with magical creatures in Australia for year, '' matt said.

`` I 'm surprised Kendrick lets him cause that thing in the school day, '' Amanda said.

`` I doubt Kendrick knows about it, '' Albus replied.

If Kendrick had n't known about the anamatek before, he most likely did by the end of the day. The entire school was buzzing about it. Apparently Balladanis had not only shown it to his tertiary year, but second and fourth part through seventh years as well. The vulgar elbow room was filled with chatter about it after dinner, as well as extremely covetous first days. Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn whined about not being able to see it.

`` Are you ready for Quidditch recitation, Al ? '' Georgia said to Albus as Lily and her protagonist left.

Albus looked up. Sakartvelo 's aspect was white and she looked Thomas More than a small pock. Albus stared at her curiously.

`` Yeah. But, Sakartvelo, are you ok ? ``

`` I 'll be amercement, '' she assured him, `` Balladanis had that anamatek thing turn into a dementor during year right before dinner. We spent the stallion class trying to stray Patronuses against it. Let me tell you, that anamatek was just like a dementor. '' Georgia closed her centre and shuddered.

`` You should experience some chocolate, '' Albus told her and pulled a cocoa anuran out of his bag. He tossed it to her.

Sakartvelo caught it and ripped it loose. `` Thanks. Let 's go find James. ``

Albus said goodbye to his admirer and went to go find James with Georgia. He felt a bit unsettle that Balladanis had used the anamatek as a dementor. Having it plough into a kappa was one affair, but a dementor ? They were really dangerous. As far as Albus knew, the Patronus magic spell was n't actually practiced on dementors until Auror training. Part of Albus hoped that Kendrick would ban the anamatek from the school before he started learning the Patronus charm in seventh year.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Much to Albus 's surprise, the anamatek was still sitting in Balladanis 's classroom the next class. Albus really thought Kendrick would sustain made him get rid of it. The category continued practicing on it and after a few Roger Sessions with it, Albus got used to the fact that it was an anamatek. As long as it did n't turn into a dementor or a chimaera or something else really severe, Albus did n't mind.

Practicing on the anamatek was a lot like practicing dueling anyway. That 's how Albus saw it. defensive measure family were beginning to be a lot like dueling practice. Albus was very felicitous about this, especially since the next dueling tournament was quickly upon him. It took place on a Saturday in the middle of November, the day before the second inter-school dueling tournament.

`` Nice to see that you actually showed up today, Potter, '' Malfoy smirked as Albus and Amanda sat down at their team table.

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Lynley Anderson said as she walked past Albus, `` Or you wo n't duel in the succeeding tourney. ``

Malfoy scowled and Albus smiled to himself. He sat down and looked to the front of the room. The usual dueling hoop were set up and Neville was standing in presence of one. Balladanis was standing in front of the other one. He must have been chosen to be the former prof in charge of the dueling order since Albus 's dad left.

The tournament began a unretentive while later and Albus sat back to wait for his turn of events. As a great deal as Albus loved dueling, he could n't suffer having to wait while everyone else dueled. He could n't wait until he was a fifth twelvemonth and could try out for the steady dueling baseball club. The teams were a great deal low for that and Albus would get to duel more during each tournament. If he made the team, that is.

`` Albus Potter and Kaden Dursley, '' Balladanis announced.

Albus looked up and stared at him. Kaden ? Albus turned to gape at Amanda, who shrugged. Albus was going to have to duel Kaden ? Albus had yet to duel any of his cousins.

Albus got up and walked towards the closed chain. Kaden was already there when he arrived. Albus and Kaden bowed to each other and then raised their wands.

`` Begin, '' Balladanis said.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his baton at Kaden while silently apologizing to him. He really did n't want to duel Kaden.

Kaden 's verge flew from his hand and Albus caught it. Albus looked up at Balladanis. Balladanis was looking at Albus with his piercing stare and Albus quickly looked away.

`` head to ceramist, '' Balladanis said without taking his eyes off Albus.

Albus handed Kaden back his verge and went back to his team 's table. Lynley and Amanda congratulated him and he sat back down.

`` I ca n't believe they had you duel Kaden, '' Amanda giggled.

Albus shrugged. It had n't been much of a fight. Albus rarely had trouble dueling anyone during the tournaments. The only someone who Albus ever had difficulty dueling was Malfoy, and he was on Albus 's team.

Albus was n't really thinking practically about having to duel Kaden. He could n't get the look Balladanis had given him out of his mind. It was form of like the feel he 'd received in class, only more intimidating. There was a hint of curiosity mixed in with something Albus could n't distinguish. It was almost like he was trying to read Albus 's mind, but Albus had had decent experience with that to know that Balladanis was n't doing it.

Malfoy was up next and he dueled James II. It was a very fast-paced and energize duel. In the end, Malfoy managed to disarm James. Albus had no melodic theme how he felt about this. voice of him was happy that his team got the point, but on the other deal, the view of his brother losing to Malfoy was rather unsettling.

James had a mutinous face on his face as he grabbed his wand out of Malfoy 's outstretched script. He stormed back to his board without a second glance at Malfoy or Balladanis.

Albus looked back to Balladanis and saw him giving Malfoy the same odd look he had given Albus earlier. Albus had no idea what to induce of that. Balldanis had n't looked at anyone else like that.

The next person Albus dueled was a bit more gainsay, but Albus still disarmed her within three minutes. She was a fourth class Ravenclaw who had the reputation of being the wise of all the fourth years.

Balladanis gave Albus the same strange feel as he awarded him the stop. Albus quickly gave the girl back her wand and went back to his table.

Albus 's team narrowly won the tournament. Lynley congratulated everyone and said the intact squad had improved greatly since the last tournament. Albus and Amanda got up and joined the throngs of people leaving the room. They headed up to the common room, where they had agreed to meet their friends after the tournament.

`` skillful job, '' privy said as he sat down next to Albus.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` I mean, you beat me pretty quickly. ``

`` Albus is the C. H. Best dueler out of all of us, '' Matt said as he joined them.

`` Balladanis was certainly occupy, '' John said, `` What was up with him looking at you like that ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus said, `` It was really odd. ``

`` He was looking at Malfoy like that, too, '' blush wine said as she and Linda sat down.

`` I 'll bet it 's because you 're both such good dueller, '' Matt replied, `` I hate to intromit it, but Malfoy is really respectable. ``

`` Did you see James 's face after Malfoy beat him ? '' John laughed, `` That was pretty funny. ``

`` I do n't call up James would fit with you, '' Albus smirked.

`` well, we should probably do some homework, '' blush wine said.

Everyone groaned but cypher disagreed. Albus went up to his dormitory and returned with his ledger. He cracked open his Herbology book and started an essay that was due on Tuesday.

`` You 're from Commonwealth of Australia, are n't you ? ``

Albus 's head snapped up. Linda was staring curiously at mat, whose eyes were darting about. Everyone else was now staring at Linda. Albus did n't think he had ever heard her public lecture outside of class.

`` Er, why do you think that ? '' matt asked nervously.

`` The former day after Defense, you mentioned that your dad had n't seen an anamatek even though he worked down there, '' Linda explained.

`` Oh, yeah, '' Matt muttered, `` I did used to live there. ``

`` Why did you travel ? '' Linda asked.

`` My dad 's job, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, '' Linda replied, `` Well, if you had n't, we could consume gone to school together. ``

Matt mumbled something under his breath.

`` What ? '' Linda asked.

`` Nothing, '' matt said and closed his book, `` I 'm, er, going to the depository library. ``

Albus closed his own Word and got up to follow matte, but he had already left. Albus sighed and looked at Rose, who was slowly shaking her head. That was exactly why lusterlessness had wanted to stay away from Linda and Albus could n't blame him.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in secrecy in the common room. Albus managed to finish his Herbology essay just before dinner. He had no mind if Matt actually went to the library, but found him in the Great Hall at dinner. He made no quotation of what Linda had said, so Albus did n't work it up. Albus only had enough time to eat a quick dinner anyway, because he had Quidditch practice afterwards.

******

`` All right, that 's decent for today, '' Balladanis announced as the bell rang the following Tuesday, `` exit your essays on my desk on your way out. ``

Albus stowed his wand in his robe and rummaged around in his bag for his essay. For some grounds, Balladanis always collected essays at the end of class. Albus had no thought why. All the early teachers collected them at the source, presumably to prevent bookman from frantically scribbling their essay during class the day it was due. That would be impossible in Balladanis 's class, though.

`` ceramicist, Malfoy ! '' Balldanis shouted, `` Please see me before you leave. ``

`` tone like you 're getting extra help, too, '' John laughed, `` Welcome to the club. ``

`` Somehow I doubt that, '' matt replied, `` Albus was the only one to cause that anamatek to fly halfway across the room today. Well, besides Malfoy. ``

Albus shrugged and muttered that he 'd foregather them in Herbology. His heart started beating a bit faster as he placed his essay on the pile and stood in front of Balladanis 's desk. Why did he want to see him anyway ? Could Balladanis really think he needed duplicate assistance ?

Malfoy tossed his essay onto the pile and then leaned up on Balladanis 's desk as he watched the residual of the class leave.

`` sales booth up, Malfoy, '' Balladanis said as he shut the anamatek 's torso and walked over to his desk.

Malfoy jumped and quickly stood up straight. Albus stifled a laugh and turned to Balladanis, whose grimace was expressionless.

Balladanis walked over to the room access, shut it, and returned to his desk. `` I could n't help but point out that both of you won both of your affaire d'honneur endure Saturday. ``

`` I always win both of my affaire d'honneur, '' Malfoy said pompously.

`` I thought so, '' Balladanis replied, ignoring Malfoy 's less than respectful tone, `` I 'm assuming the Same goes for you, Mr. ceramist ? ``

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus nodded.

`` Have either of you ever been defeated in a duel before ? ``

`` I 've disarmed Potter during practice, '' Malfoy smirked.

`` And I 've disarmed you, Malfoy, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

`` Any other clip ? '' Balladanis asked.

Albus opened his oral cavity, but Balladanis interrupted him.

`` During the dueling tourney, Mr. Potter. I have heard about your altercation with Jameson Washburn, Jarret Willinson, and his son. ``

`` No other times, '' Albus replied.

`` I could have defeated Washburn, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I sincerely doubt that, '' Balladanis said, a lot to Albus 's delight, `` But that is not what I have asked to discuss with you. I have noticed, both in social class and during dueling tournaments, that the two of you seem to possess exceptional accomplishment when it comes to dueling. You 're dueling skill appears to be much higher than the third or even twenty-five percent year level.

`` Therefore, I would like to take both of you privately. There is only so much you can larn in a boastfully group with those whose skill is less than your own. I will be capable to teach you while you would n't normally instruct until fourth or fifth year. Are either of you occupy ? ``

`` Of trend, '' Malfoy said immediately.

Albus could n't trust it. His family and friends always told him he was an excellent duelist, but somehow having Balladanis tell him meant more. Balladanis was incredibly hard to please, and not only did he think Albus was a capital dueller, he was offering to teach him more advanced spells. That was incredibly exciting. Albus would be able to pick up spells that Saint James the Apostle had n't learned yet.

`` Yes, I 'd wish that, '' Albus grinned, thinking it would be brilliant to beat James in a duel.

`` I shall see you on Friday at eight, then, '' Balladanis told them, `` After I am done tutoring the less adept in your grade. '' He pulled out two art object of paper and scribbled onto both of them. `` Give these to your teachers, as you are quite late to class by now. Get out of here. ``

Albus took his note and left the way feeling that Fri was an incredibly longsighted time away. private dueling lessons. He could n't hold back. for certain, they 'd be with Malfoy, but Albus was willing to put up with him in guild to larn gain ground spells.

Albus hurried to Herbology, but the class was already well into that day 's lesson by the clock time he arrived. He handed his note to Neville and then sat down next to Matt, who was shoveling scandal into an empty pot.

`` What did Balladanis want ? '' Matt asked.

`` You 're never going to believe this, '' Albus said as he pulled on his gloves, `` Balladanis wants to hold Malfoy and me private dueling deterrent example. He wants to teach us advanced charm that we would n't normally learn until twenty-five percent or 5th class. ``

`` You 're kidding, '' Matt said in awe.

`` Nope, '' Albus grinned.

`` But why ? '' flatness asked, `` Did he say why he 's teaching you ? ``

`` Just because he thinks we 're serious duellist, I guess. ``

`` fountainhead, you are a good dueler, Albus, '' flatness agreed, `` When do you embark on ? ``

`` Friday at eight. Right after your supporter session, actually, '' Albus answered.

`` I 'm not going to the assistance session this week, '' lusterlessness lowered his articulation, `` And you 'll be having loads more fun than me. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Albus whispered, remembering that the replete moonlight was Friday night, `` I 'll let you lie with how it goes, though. ``

After Herbology was over, Albus told privy, rose wine, and Amanda about Balladanis 's dueling moral and then had to repeat it to Kaden when they ate lunch. All of them were excited about it, especially Kaden. Albus suspected he was a bit jealous, too.

The remainder of the week seemed to cringe by at a flobberworm 's gait. It was n't like Albus did n't have anything to keep him busy, but he just could n't think about anything former than the dueling example.

`` Albus, you 've got to stop tapping your shaft, '' blush wine said shortly, `` It 's driving me mad. ``

Albus and his acquaintance were in the Marauder 's Den. It was Friday evening and dinner had just ended. Albus was trying to concentrate on homework, but it was n't working. Rose and Amanda were both interpretation. Linda had mysteriously disappeared after her last class and blush wine and Amanda had been with Albus and the other boys ever since. Saint John and Kaden were discussing a prank that involved charming gobstones to postdate the Aurors and prefects around as they patrolled the corridors. rose wine had already advised against this, but John and Kaden did n't heed. Matt was laying on the sofa with his eyes closed, but he was n't numb. John and Kaden kept asking him things and he 'd respond with very curtly answers.

`` Sorry, '' Albus muttered and dropped his quill.

`` So where 's Linda tonight ? '' John Lackland asked.

`` I dunno, '' Rose shrugged, `` She did n't search that expectant today, though. ``

`` Then she 's probably sucking some animal 's blood in the forest, '' lustrelessness announced.

`` Well, there 's a pin-up scene, '' Kaden said loudly, `` Linda biting the neck of some helpless animal and sucking the life out of it. Think of all the blood. It must get all over her grimace and neck. That 's jolly rank. ``

`` Thanks for that picture, Kaden, '' Matt replied.

`` It 's better than her sucking human descent, '' rosebush pointed out.

`` That 's rightful, '' Kaden agreed, `` So, should we fill the gobstones with stink sap before we charm them ? ``

`` Of row ! '' John Lackland grinned.

`` And that 's my cue to leave, '' lusterlessness sat up slowly and rubbed his question, `` I 'll see you lot tomorrow, probably. ``

`` Yeah, we 'll see you in the morning, '' Albus assured him.

`` rich person fun, '' Kaden said.

`` Fun, '' Matt muttered on his way out, `` That 's a word I 've never used to describe it. ``

`` We 'd better go, too, '' Amanda said.

`` Yeah, clip to go sit through an additional DoD lesson, '' John groaned as he stood up.

`` I thought you did n't mind them, '' Rose said.

`` I do n't. They just get old after a patch, '' whoremonger sighed as he and Amanda left.

Albus worked on his homework for the next hr, mainly because there was n't anything else to do. Rose was working on her own homework and did n't appear to want to do anything else. The time of day dragged by at an incredibly slow rate, but eventually Albus packed up his books, said goodbye to Rose, and left for Balladanis 's room.

The door was half-way open when Albus arrived. He took a deep breath, suddenly overcome by boldness, and knocked lightly. There was no reply. Albus pushed the door clear and walked very slowly inside.

The room was dim. The only light stemmed from a few torches lit on the walls. It was obviously the Sami classroom he had Defense class in, but it looked completely different in the evening.

There was n't anyone left in the room from the duplicate Department of Defense lesson earlier. Albus had passed John and Amanda in the corridor. They both wished him respectable luck.

Albus looked around the elbow room and saw the trunk that contained the anamatek sitting unnaturally still in social movement of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis himself was also sitting unnaturally still at his desk. He stared directly into Albus 's optic and Albus, remembering the Occlumency lessons he received two years prior, quickly averted his own eyes and began to shut his mind.

`` You know Occlumency, Mr. ceramist, '' Balladanis said not as a enquiry, but as a statement.

Albus nodded as Balladanis slowly rose from his professorship and walked around to the front of his desk. Albus took a step back and nearly collided with the front board. He swallowed nervously and kept his eyes off of Balladanis.

Albus had always been a picayune wary of Balladanis, but now he had to intromit that he was a bit scared. The merely way for Balladanis to be intimate that Albus had been practicing Occlumency was if he had actually been performing Legilimency. Albus had decent experience with teacher performing Legilimency on him and he did n't want to do go through that again. The exclusively matter Albus was thinking about then was how he could leave behind the room without Balladanis getting suspicious. He wished he had a Puking Pastille or something in his pocket.

`` Who taught you ? '' Balladanis asked.

`` My Aunt Hermione, '' Albus muttered. He wondered where Malfoy was. That had to be the firstly and probably only clip he would ever like Malfoy to be present.

`` Hermione Weasley, '' Balladanis mused, `` Yes, she is one of the most accomplished Occlumenses of her contemporaries. ``

Albus 's mind snapped towards the door as he heard footsteps enter the room. He breathed a suspiration of relief and had to stifle a laugh at the fact that he was well-chosen Malfoy was in the room.

`` Mr. Malfoy, you 're recent, '' Balladanis said.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Malfoy muttered.

`` Sit down, '' Balladanis pointed to the front table.

Albus turned around and sat as quickly as he could in one of the professorship. Malfoy took his metre in sauntering over and sat in the president next to him.

`` Mr. Potter. Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis began to pace in straw man of them, `` By now I am surely you are both aware of my posture on the Dark Arts. If not, I suggest paying a bit more than attention in class.

`` You may also be aware of my devotion to helping the pupil who are struggling in my class. I hold extra assist sessions every single day after dinner. However, I also wish to serve those who are truly talented to hit their true up potential.

`` You two are the most talented dueller in the third year, '' Balladanis paused and looked at each of them in the eye, `` I would indicate that you are the most gifted duellist amongst the students below fifth year. I would even bet that you could give a couple of the sixth years a run for their Galleons. ``

Albus stared at Balladanis. He did n't guess he was that just of a duellist. He knew he could beat most of the students in the Junior 's Dueling Club, but 6th yr ? They were doing N.E.W.T. defence course. They knew spells Albus had never even pick up of.

`` I would n't go picking fights with sixth years, though, '' Balladanis continued, `` They know turn you do not. What I mean is that you have the natural endowment to find out trance that the sixth years are learning. The spells I am currently teaching in course of instruction are incredibly simple for the two of you. What I hope to do is teach you trance that are more at your level. Now, stand up, the both of you. Let 's see what you can do. ``

Albus stood up and pulled out his baton. He had no musical theme what Balladanis wanted him to do. Would they be practicing on the anamatek ?

Balladanis waved his wand and the desks moved to the face of the classroom. Another wave and the luminousness increased. `` I would like you to duel each other. Use any patch that you have learned in school day. Do not use any spells you have picked up elsewhere. brothel keeper Pomfrey would not be happy with me if I sent the two of you to the Hospital Wing with missing limbs. Keep going until I say to arrest. ``

Albus could n't trust it. He was getting to duel Malfoy ! He had been wanting to do that ever since Kendrick had first announced the dueling golf club. The petty practice duel they did were n't really what he had wanted to do, though.

Albus raised his verge and stared at Malfoy. Malfoy was smirking and pointing his verge at Albus. The two of them bowed and Albus took a step forward.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his verge at Malfoy.

Malfoy easily dodged the patch and sent a titillation hex at Albus. Albus threw up a shield and then tried to disarm Malfoy. Malfoy jumped onto a nearby desk and the spell collided with a chair which collapsed.

The duel continued in this matter for quite some time. Albus tried as hard as he could to actually hit Malfoy with a magical spell, but Malfoy kept dodging and blocking them. It was driving Albus mad. He kept thinking of everything Malfoy had done to him in the past two old age and how much he wanted to beat him in this duel. If he beat Malfoy, he 'd birth something on him for the rest period of the year.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted for what must have been the one-tenth time.

Malfoy dodged it and sent the Lapp spell at Albus. Albus jumped and the spell hit Balladanis 's desk.

`` That 's enough ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus lowered his wand and glared at Malfoy. Albus shoved his wand back in his robes and looked around to find a chair that remained integral. He found one and collapsed into it. That duel had been exhausting.

`` Well, that was certainly worry, '' Balladanis gave a rare smile, `` Not a wampum on either of you but my classroom has been destroyed. It seems that I was not untimely in my perspicacity of your dueling skills.

`` Have either of you thought about what you want to do when you get out of Hogwarts ? ``

Albus stared curiously at Balladanis. That was an sharp variety in conversation. Albus had never thought about life beyond Hogwarts. He was only long dozen. He never thought there was any need to think about it yet.

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` Not really. I mean, I always thought being an Auror would be interesting. ``

`` Indeed it would, '' Balladanis said, `` Your Father of the Church certainly is happy with it. How about you, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` No idea, '' Malfoy replied.

`` There are many thing you can do with dueling skills such as yours. I would suggest looking into it, '' Balladanis said.

`` But sir, we 're simply third geezerhood, '' Malfoy scoffed, `` Is n't it a bit early ? ``

`` I already knew what I wanted to do at 13, '' Balladanis said quietly.

`` And what is that exactly ? '' Malfoy asked.

Balladanis gave Malfoy the unusual look Albus had ever seen. It was a combining of sadness, anger, and pridefulness.

`` I do not wish to talk over that, '' Balladanis said, `` Perhaps you will find out someday. For now, I think it best we call it a night. If you wish to con get ahead spells, return at this time next week and we will begin. ``

`` I 'll be here, sir, '' Malfoy said as he walked out the door.

`` Thanks, professor, '' Albus said as he followed.

`` Mr. ceramist, '' Balladanis said, `` Please tell Mr. Eckerton that it will not do for him to skip his extra assistance sessions. ``

`` But sir, '' Albus looked at him incredulously, `` You know what tonight is. He could n't possibly have gone. ``

`` The moon did n't rise until after the session was over. I do not take exculpation. ``

Albus sighed to himself as he left. Balladanis had been teaching him for over two calendar month and he still surprised Albus all the metre. Albus had seen a different side of him that night. He did truly detest the Dark Arts, that was something Albus did not doubt. But he had also performed Legilimency on him. Albus did n't believe he could ever trust a instructor that did that. Not after his experience with Washburn.


A/N : To answer a commons doubt mass have left in critique, I came up with the anamatek, but based it off of boggarts in the HP series. Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` What did Balladanis learn you ? '' was the outset thing matte asked Albus when he went to see him the following afternoon.

Albus had given every trivial detail about the evening to his other ally once he returned to the dormitory afterwards and they were imprint. John 's firstly reaction had been that perhaps Albus would be able to find out what Balladanis did before he began teaching.

`` He did n't really teach us anything, '' Albus explained to flatness, who looked exhausted but was paying rapt attention. `` I dueled Malfoy. ``

`` Wow, '' matte looked impressed, `` How was that ? ``

`` Neither of us won, '' Albus sighed, `` Balladanis made us stop because we pretty practically destroyed his classroom. ``

`` I wish I had seen it, '' John chimed in, `` Bet the look on Balladanis 's cheek was invaluable. ``

`` He just looked shanghai. He was n't wild or anything, '' Albus told them, `` Then he asked us what we wanted to do with our lives. ``

`` Like what kind of job you want to get ? '' matte raised his eyebrows, `` You 're only thirteen. ``

`` Yeah, I thought it was strange, '' Albus shrugged, `` But he said I should think about doing something that would put my dueling skills to use. ``

`` Like an Auror ? '' Matt asked.

`` I do n't think so. I mentioned that and he kind of made it seem like that would n't put my dueling skills to use. ``

`` I ca n't opine of any other job that you 'd duel to a greater extent than that, '' Matt replied.

`` I have no melodic theme what I want to do with my liveliness, '' Kaden announced.

`` Me either, '' can said, `` I say we 've got plenty of sentence to forecast it out. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Madam Pomfrey stuck her head in between the mantle, `` And you certainly do not suffer to estimate it out now. It 's fourth dimension for you lot to go forth. ``

Albus, John, and Kaden reluctantly left the hospital fender, lamenting the fact that Madam Pomfrey had n't let them stay very long. They had no approximation why the nurse had shortened impose clock time so much, considering that Matt had n't seemed worsened than usual, but they never understood why dame Pomfrey did about of the things she did.

******

Albus 's week could be easily summed up in two countersign. Quidditch and homework. Normally he would only complain about the latter, but Joseph Oliver Wood was like a Muggle drill police sergeant when it came to Quidditch. Since the match was on Sabbatum, Oliver was insisting on daily practices. Albus and the other alternates had to be at every practice because according to Oliver, 'you never know when someone will get nauseous or witch right before a compeer .'

In fact, Joseph Oliver even wanted them to practice on Friday nighttime, the Nox before the match. Albus was n't too happy about this since he had his lesson with Balladanis at eight. That was the same prison term Quidditch practice let out, so he had to run to the defence classroom still completely covered in mud from practice.

He ran into the classroom ten minutes late, heart pounding with worry about what Balladanis was going to say.

`` Mr. Potter, you 're belatedly, '' Balladanis said as Albus entered the room. He and Malfoy were sitting at the social movement desk.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Albus said as he joined them, `` Quidditch exercise. ``

`` So I gathered, '' Balladanis eyed Albus 's muddy gown, `` I was just telling Mr. Malfoy about the responsibilities that come with learning advanced dueling spells. ``

Balladanis pulled out his baton and pointed it at Albus. Albus 's gown were sporty and dry and he muttered a thank you to the professor. Malfoy was smirking to himself.

`` The most important responsibility is that you can not and I repeat, can not, use the go I teach you here in the third-year dueling tournament. It would impart your squad an unfair advantage and you could inadvertently injure your antagonist. The trance I teach you are not to be used outside this schoolroom, unless I instruct you otherwise.

`` You are not to duel your chap bookman in the corridors with these spells. Nor are you to use them against your siblings and cousins, '' his center rested on Albus.

`` I also feel the need to warn you that these spells are more exhausting than the one you have been learning. They use a lot of magical energy and do not be surprised if you feel as though you have just run a marathon, '' he turned to Albus again, `` Or played in a very farsighted Quidditch couple. ``

Balladanis stood up and gestured for the male child to do the Lapplander. Once they did, Balladanis moved the desks aside and stood in between where Albus and Malfoy stood.

`` I am going to have you work on your shield charms first- ''

`` I already know how to do a shield spell, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I am well cognisant of that, Mr. Malfoy, and I do ask that you not question my instruction style, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` The shield charms you have been using are relatively weak and fade away after only a few spells are cast against them.

`` With a fair bit of drill and mental concentration, one is capable to keep the shield up for long flow of time in order to block multiple spells. Really skilled duelist can even keep the cuticle up while casting other enchantment. That is quite utilitarian, as you can opine. It is also possible to shield a great many mass with just one person 's shield spell, which is also very utile. Some shield charms can even protect one against magical creature onslaught, '' Balladanis lowered his voice and averted his eyes at this, which Albus thought was odd.

`` It takes a lot of denseness to maintain detainment of a harbour charm for so long, which is why the magic spell can be difficult. I doubt either of you will farm a long term shield charm tonight, so do n't be disappointed. Wands out, both of you, and we 'll see how long you can have the charm, without any spells hitting it. ``

Albus held up his wand and muttered the conjuration for the carapace spell. He had practiced this spell numerous times before, usually with mortal else trying to hex him at the same time. It was quite gentle to just hold it there and even kind of oil production. He and Malfoy just stared at each other and Albus doubted that either of them were going to fell their carapace. It would be like admitting defeat to the other.

After what must have been at least ten bit of holding the shield magical spell, Albus found he was getting tired. His arm ached from holding his sceptre up and from throwing so many Quaffles at practice earlier. Malfoy had the advantage since he did n't have Quidditch practice. a great deal to Albus 's disheartenment, he noticed his shield starting to fizzle. He was n't going to be able to hold it much longer and Malfoy 's still looked strong.

Balladanis looked at his watch. `` Let the shell go, '' he instructed, `` Wands down. ``

Relieved, Albus lowered his weary deal and then sat down in a chair. Balladanis was right when he said encourage shields were exhausting.

`` Very good, '' Balladanis said, `` Stand up again. Now I 'll see how many trance each of your shields can withstand. ``

Albus and Malfoy both put their shields up again and Balladanis sent disarming charms at both of them. Albus could feel his cuticle faltering after the first charm and did n't think it would last as long as Malfoy's.

Albus 's carapace fizzled out after three charms. Malfoy 's dismantled after four. He had the biggest smirk on his boldness afterwards, but did n't say anything. He probably did n't need to gloat in front man of Balladanis. Albus knew he 'd hear about it the adjacent time they had a course of study together, though.

If only he had n't had Quidditch practice ! Then Albus would hold beaten Malfoy. Or at to the lowest degree tied with him.

`` That 's enough for tonight, '' Balladanis said as he eyed Albus. Albus had a spirit that he looked absolutely exhausted.

`` Looks like I 'm the better dueller, '' Malfoy said once they were out of the room.

`` That 's not what it meant, '' Albus muttered, `` We did n't even duel each other. I could stick you in a real number affaire d'honneur. ``

`` And I could beat both of you, '' a Slytherin Prefect, who was making his rounds, said as he walked by, `` So get to your dormitories. ``

Albus had no idea if he could beat the Prefect or not but he did n't want to stick around to lose house points. Plus, it was a in effect excuse to stop talking to Malfoy.

******

The upheaval that filled the Great G. Stanley Hall the next good morning reminded Albus yet again of the former year 's Quidditch final examination. Only this was n't a final. It was the Hogwarts versus Australia match, the low match Hogwarts was going to run in.

The Hogwarts team did not sit together at breakfast or lunch. There was considerable argument at practice the previous night about this. Oliver Wood, President Tyler Pike, and shimmy all wanted the squad to sit together in order to embrace in last arcminute strategizing, but nobody could agree on which table to sit at.

In the end, teddy sat with the Gryffindor role player at the Gryffindor table, Tyler sat with the Ravenclaw players at the Ravenclaw table, and Oliver walked from mesa to shelve giving out last infinitesimal advice. Albus thought this worked out amercement since King Oliver did n't seem to be able to sit still for more than a minute.

Albus was kind of relieved that cipher on the Hogwarts squad came down with Spattergroit or lost a fingerbreadth in potions stratum because he did n't really want to bring. He loved Quidditch, but so a good deal was at stake. He wanted to merely watch the number 1 match that Hogwarts participated in. Then, if right before the adjacent mates, one of the chaser came down with a cold and Madam Pomfrey forbid them from playing, Albus would gladly subscribe to their place.

The hullabaloo only increased as Albus and his friends walked to the rake. Rose and Amanda were there, although Linda was n't. Albus thought this was only fitting since Hogwarts was playing against Commonwealth of Australia in this match.

"Welcome, everyone !"Sir Alexander Robertus Todd Smith 's voice boomed over the crowd,"Hogwarts is playing its first couple in the Cup and they are up against Australia ! The Hogwarts team is captained by Oliver Wood with assist from Ted Lupin and President Tyler thruway !

"The team is comprised of Georgia Weasley as steward ; Damien Waverly, Anna Reilly, and Ferris Henry Fielding as Chasers ; Andy Kaper and Allie Davis as Beaters ; and Saint James Potter as Seeker.

"The biggest turmoil in this mate is whether James ceramicist will be able to gravel Aboriginal Australian seeker Linda Morales, who shocked everyone with her speed and lightness in the finis couple. Potter, of track, is the son and nephew of fabled Gryffindor searcher Harry ceramicist and Charlie Weasley. He is also being coached by Gryffindor 's former legendary Seeker, Ted lupin, and is on his way towards becoming another legend in the family of Gryffindor."

"Not being very modest about James, is he ?"Rose muttered to Albus.

"No, not really,"Albus replied, glad that he was n't in James 's position.

"The maitre d'hotel shake hands,"Smith continues,"And they 're off !"

All fourteen histrion, one-half in emerald green Australian robes and one-half in shameful Hogwarts ones, rose into the air. Whoever decided on the colors must not have been thinking about visibleness. If it was a rainy, snowy, or dazed day, you would n't be capable to severalise the difference between the two colors.

The couple was fast-paced like the world-class one had been. All of the Hogwarts players were superb and as far as Albus could tell apart, equally matched against Australia.

The teams were tied xv moment into the match, each with 120 points. The Quaffle exchanged hands so often that Albus had a heavily clip keeping up. rosebush had already given up and was talking to Amanda about something. Matt, John, and Kaden were all trying to restrain up with the match.

It happened so fast that if Albus had blinked, he would have missed the whole thing. Linda had been hovering above the Hogwarts destination posts and then she shot down towards the ground, pulling out of her dive with the gilded Snitch in her grasp. Epistle of James had been next to her and was a few measure above her when she caught it. Just like that, in a matter of seconds, the mates was over.

"Linda esprit de corps has captured the stoolie, which means Australia wins 270-120,"Smith announced lupus erythematosus than enthusiastically.

"She caught it ?"lavatory gaped,"But she was above the goal posts two arcsecond ago !"

"No one can fly that fasting !"Albus agreed.

"It ca n't be over !"Matt exclaimed,"It just started twenty minutes ago !"

Everyone around Albus was talking about how fast Linda flew to the Snitch. Albus and his friends descended onto the rake and Albus quickly lost them in the sea of the great unwashed. He pushed his way through the crew until he found his team.

"They 've got to be cheating !"Andy Kaper shouted to slip,"They 've rigged her broom or something !"

"All the broom were fully checked before the match,"Teddy reminded him.

"Well, check it again !"Andy exclaimed,"There 's a speed charm on that thing, I guarantee it."

"We 'll give it checked again,"woodwind instrument assured him.

"I want a rematch,"Georgia muttered,"They 've got to be cheating. Even a Firebolt 2000 ca n't fly that fast."

"We 're only going to get a rematch if there is something wrongfulness with that broom,"Wood sighed.

"I want an unofficial flying rivalry between her and King James,"Damien Waverly said,"There 's no way she 's a better broadside than he is."

James was the entirely one not talking. He appeared to be in shock. The entire squad was shouting around him, but he did n't look to hear any of it.

"James ?"Albus asked tentatively.

Epistle of James jumped and looked at Albus without saying a word. Then he trudged off to the changing room. No one else noticed that he left.

No one had noticed Albus show up either, so he joined the crowd of the great unwashed going back up to the castle. He figured it would be easier to spill to the James once he returned to the common room.

The common elbow room was ominously silent when Albus walked through the portraiture hole. virtually citizenry were sitting, staring into space, and not talking to anyone. It was a shot more fitting to someone just dying than a lost Quidditch match. None of the Australians who had been sorted into Gryffindor, including Linda, were there. Albus briefly wondered where they were going to go, now that they 'd probably be chased out of every green room.

Albus 's friends were sitting at their usual board and Albus joined them. Rose and Amanda were whispering to each early, but John and lustrelessness were silent. Kaden was rifling through a flock of chocolate frog cards.

The peer had been the definition of anti-climactic. Hogwarts had spent weeks preparing for it, working every day well past when the sun set. Homework had been ignored and studying put off. All so Hogwarts could beat Commonwealth of Australia. Then, Linda Morales had caught the stoolpigeon twenty minutes into the match. Linda Morales, the alone one who had managed to best James Potter at Quidditch.

"You know,"Kaden set down his cards,"If William James and Linda had a kid, he or she would be the best Seeker in the world."

Nobody responded. Albus thought it would be more likely to turn proficient supporter with a chimaera than James I and Linda to get married and have a kid. Not to cite the fact that vampires could n't bear children. Kaden probably did n't know that, though.

"I just do n't get it,"John mumbled,"She must 've cheated."

"You just do n't need to take on that Hogwarts might not receive the best Quidditch players in the world,"Rose muttered.

"Let 's go to the Marauder 's Den,"Matt whispered as he stood up.

Albus did n't experience why matte wanted to go there, but considering how depressingly quiet the vulgar room was, he was n't about to object.

They passed no one except an Auror on their way to the room. Everyone must have been lamenting the Quidditch deprivation in their vernacular rooms.

"Finally,"Kaden said as he collapsed onto one of the lounge in the way,"Now we can actually tattle. The usual elbow room is depressing."

"What do you look ?"lavatory groaned,"We lost our first Ernst Mach. We 're in last place."

"No, we 're not,"pink wine said,"New York lost to Australia with only 40 decimal point. They 're in stopping point place."

"Does n't matter,"John shook his promontory,"We still lost."

"No one 's ever going to circumvent Australia,"Albus sighed.

"You 're probably powerful,"Matt said darkly,"Remember the finally match ? How quickly she caught the Snitch ? I knew she 'd be fast, but I thought maybe she 'd slow down to even things up a bit. This match proves that wrong. She 's using the fact that she 's a vampire to her advantage."

"That 's completely unfair !"John shouted,"Why would Kendrick let her do that ?"

"He obviously does n't know,"Rose sighed.

"So, she is cheating,"Albus said.

"Technically, she 's not,"matt replied,"She 's just really skilled at Quidditch. vampire, and wolfman, have really keen eyesight in order to,"he paused,"Catch target. She 's good at seeing a canary than any human."

"Then why do n't you play Seeker against her !"Kaden exclaimed, grinning at the estimate,"That would be to a greater extent fair."

matte burst out laughing."You did n't see me at flying example in for the first time yr. I 'm an awful flyer. certain, I could see the stoolpigeon, but I 'd return off my broom trying to catch it."

"Oh,"Kaden deflated.

"asset she 's super fast,"John pointed out,"And Matt 's not. No offense or anything."

"None taken,"matte said.

"So, what are we going to do about this ?"Albus asked,"If she does n't turn back, Commonwealth of Australia 's going to win this competition."

"I think rosiness should talk to her,"St. John suggested.

"Why ?"rosiness asked.

"Because she likes you and you like her,"John said,"Just narrate her to fly a little slower."

"Yeah, right,"Rose rolled her eyes,"Believe it or not, she 's about as fanatical about Quidditch as you lot are. No way is she going to fit to that."

"It 's admittedly,"Amanda agreed.

The elbow room descended into quiet. The only early thing Albus could recall of to do would be to tell Kendrick that Linda was a vampire. That would get her off the Australian Quidditch team for surely. However, Albus did n't really require to do that. pink wine would hex him to next century and she 'd probably never speak to him again. It would be a lot like if Rose told person Matt was a lycanthrope and if that happened, Albus would stimulate the same reaction. Not that Rose would ever do that.

They stayed in the Marauder 's Den until dinner. Dinner was much more conquer than convention and William James never made an appearing. Linda was sitting at the far end of the Gryffindor table with only fellow Australians near her. That kind of surprise Albus since he had never once seen her interact with anyone besides Rose and Amanda.

"Albus,"someone put their deal on Albus 's shoulder.

Albus turned around and saw his dad, wearing the Sami forlorn flavour all the students were wearing.

"Dad,"he said,"Were you at the couple ?"

"Yeah, I was sitting with Lily,"Harry nodded,"Have you seen St. James the Apostle ?"

"Have n't seen him since rightfulness after the mates. He went into the changing rooms. Actually, I have n't seen Teddy either. Maybe he 's with James."

"Falco columbarius, I hope so,"Harry ran a hand through his hair,"I 've checked everywhere I can recollect of. Makes me wish I had n't given him the map."

"You can use mine,"Albus suggested,"But I want to go with you."

"All right,"Harry said,"Let 's go."

Albus said goodbye to his ally and walked up to Gryffindor Tower with his dad. He ran up to his residence hall once he was there and retrieved the map. The dorm room was hollow, so Albus and his dad looked at it there.

They scoured the Hogwarts plane section of the map for nearly five minute of arc before coming to the conclusion that James was no longer in the school.

"Bloody hell,"Harry muttered,"Where did he go ?"

Albus pressed the numeral two in the quoin of the map with his sceptre and the map of Hogsmeade appeared. This one was a bit more difficult to search than the Hogwarts one had been. Most of the Hogwarts scholarly person had been in the Great Asaph Hall. Everyone was spread out in Hogsmeade.

Two dots made Albus freezing. Two Elvis were in the shriek Shack. A finisher tone told him they were shift and Saint James. Albus gasped. Why were they there ? How did they get in for that subject ?

"Dad,"Albus pointed to the screeching Shack.

"The screeching Shack ?"Harry shouted and stood up.

Albus followed him out of the hall and then out of the common way."How 'd they get in ?"Albus asked once they were walking through the corridors.

"teddy knows the counter-charm for those wards,"Harry muttered.

"Why ?"

"Everyone who goes through Auror training learns a very big assortment of counter-charms. One of them was bound to work on that Tree. Now, he was n't supposed to use them outside of grooming, so I really have no clue what he was thinking,"Harry explained

It had gotten common cold and windy outside since the match, which really made Albus wonder why Teddy and Jesse James would go to the shriek Shack of all billet. The decrepit old building had no heat, for Merlin 's sake.

Albus dodged a branch from the Whomping willow tree as they neared it. Harry aimed his wand at the bottom and muttered the counter-charm. Then he froze the tree. Albus hurried after him into the passageway.

The walk to the screaming Shack was alert and mute. Albus, who had been on the receiving end of many a lecture from his dad, knew that both shift and James were going to get one once they made it to the Shack.

Harry carefully opened the door and walked into the quiet old construction. Hushed voices could be heard from the back elbow room. Albus followed his dad back there.

teddy bear and James I were both sitting on the flooring. Saint James looked a fill in pile, still wearing his muddy Quidditch robes and his face was all blotchy. Teddy did n't face much better, although his robe were a bit cleaner.

"Teddy. James,"Harry said sternly when he entered,"What in the name of Merlin 's pants are you doing in this shoes ?"

Both boys snapped their heads up at the sound of Harry 's voice.

"Trying to convince Saint James not to make the self-aggrandising misapprehension of his life,"shimmy muttered.

"That sounds a bit overdramatic,"Harry said.

"He wants to relinquish the Quidditch squad,"Teddy said dryly.

"That is the most crackbrained thing I 've heard,"Albus shouted,"You ca n't do that !"

"Albus,"Harry warned.

Albus shut his sassing, but he still thought the very idea of James II quitting the team was genial. They 'd have no hope of ever beating New York, let alone Australia, without James.

"Twenty minutes, Dad,"James said in barely More than a whisper,"Twenty minutes."

"We 've all had our bad matches,"Harry said quietly as he sat down next to James,"I fell off my broom in my 3rd year and lost a match."

"Because of the dementors,"St. James the Apostle muttered,"There were n't any dementors at this match."

"James, I 'm afraid everyone has made you out to be the invincible seeker. Todd 's commentary today proved that. The post are set so high with you that when you do misplace a match, it completely shocks everyone. It 's sort of unfair, actually, because nobody can win every match,"Harry replied,"You 're not the unbeatable searcher, I 'm afraid. And running away will get you nowhere."

"I suppose,"James sighed.

"You 're playing New York next,"Harry reminded him,"They lost to Commonwealth of Australia sooner than we did. I think you have a chance at catching the snitcher then."

"I guess,"Epistle of James replied.

"So you wo n't step down ?"Albus asked, ineffectual to keep quiet down any longer.

"No,"James said.

"Good. Because Lisa Galivant is nowhere near as good as you. You 're the best Seeker Hogwarts has got,"Albus told him.

"Thanks, Al,"James gave him a half-smile,"Too bad Australia 's got a good one."

Albus nodded, wishing that he could just tell Jesse James why Linda was so in effect. But he had sort of promised Rose he wouldn't.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You guy wire are awesome.

I 've written a new vocal fic, Lie to Me. It 's a Remus/Tonks and is in no way connected to my Albus series, but if you guys want to check it out, that would be awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


On their way back to the castle, Harry gave chemise and James I that lecture Albus had been expecting him to pass on. Albus walked a little way of life behind them. Far enough to draw them retrieve they had privacy, but close plenty that Albus could hear what they were saying.

Harry made it clear that he was not impressed that teddy bear was taking advantage of the charms he was learning in training. In fact, Harry said if he caught shift doing it again, he 'd have to report it.

Then he told James that the shrieking Shack was well out of bound and that if he went in there again, he 'd cover Jesse James to Professor Longbottom. Albus doubted either of them would set foot in the office again.

"Why did n't you just go to the Room of Requirement if you wanted privacy ?"Harry asked before leaving James and Albus in the Entrance Hall.

shift and Epistle of James looked at each other and then laughed."It was otherwise occupied,"Teddy grinned,"Fred 's got himself a lady friend. They were enjoying the privateness of the room of Requirement."

Harry smiled and shook his principal."Next time, just ask Neville if he 'll let you talk in his cogitation. I 'm sure he will. I 'll see you boys after terminus is over, then."

Albus and James said goodbye to their dad and shift and then walked back up to Gryffindor tugboat in secrecy. James was obviously still upset over the match and Albus did n't want to say anything to hold it worse.

"They 're doing a full investigating of Linda 's Scots heather !"Rose announced when Albus found them in the common room. James II had gone directly up to his dormitory.

"Yeah, woodwind instrument 's just told us,"bathroom continued,"Stripping it down, plus they 're interviewing the Australian captains, headmaster, and everyone on the team, including Linda."

"Wow,"Albus was impressed. They would n't discover anything, of course, but it was still nice that they were taking this seriously,"Wish it would actually help."

"Me, too,"John agreed,"So where was King James ?"

"The scream shanty,"Albus whispered.

lusterlessness dumped his ink bottle all over his preparation and swore."How 'd he get in ?"

"He was with shift and Teddy knows the counter-charm from Auror training,"Albus said quietly,"But he was n't supposed to use it outside of training, so my dad told him if he does it again he 'll get in trouble. Do n't interest, neither of them will go in there again."

"Still, of all the post they could 've gone ..."Matt 's voice trailed off.

"Why were they there ?"blush wine asked as she siphoned the ink off of Matt 's homework.

"St. James was thinking of quitting the team,"Albus whispered,"Do n't worry, he did n't,"he said quickly when he saw the disgusted look on John 's face.

"Well, thank Falco columbarius for that,"John said.

******

It must have been a slow news show day the next day. One of those days where the figurehead page article of the Prophet was about a young adept who had graciously volunteered his time in the closed in Aaron Montgomery Ward at St. Mungo 's or an elderly hag who passed away, leaving her fortune to her cats.

That is, if it were n't for the fact that the section of Magical secret plan and sportsman and the department for International Magical Cooperation doing an all out probe on the Australian schooling of Sorcery 's Quidditch squad, Linda Morales and her broom in particular.

Albus was quite shocked to see the prolonged clause by Rita Skeeter on the front end pageboy. He hardly ate any breakfast as he read it out trashy to his friends before classes.

The Australian School of Sorcery : Did They tare ?

In a competition of Quidditch and dueling, which reminds
many a beldam and wizard of the thrilling and slightly
more dangerous Triwizard Tournament, accusations came
yesterday of whether the team from Commonwealth of Australia cheated.

A compeer was held between the Hogwarts and Australian
teams yesterday afternoon and was over in twenty minutes.
The account was 270-110, in favor of Australia. Linda
Morales, 13, of Commonwealth of Australia, caught the stoolie in what
some the great unwashed believe to be an impossibly fast speed.

"It was like one minute of arc she was flying above the rake
and I blinked and then she was on the ground with the
Snitch in her hand,"one Hogwarts scholarly person said.

Many other student and a few stave members recalled
the same thing. The many witnesses of this come on
impossible flying have fueled the investigation.

If it is discovered that Commonwealth of Australia used any magic spell,
potions, bane, jinx, or anything else deemed
unacceptable by International Quidditch standards,
a replay will be played between Hogwarts and
Australia.

"We do n't know what we 're going to bump,"Ian
Herkimer, of the Department of Magical Games and
Sports, said belated yesterday,"On the one paw, it
is nearly impossible for a baker's dozen year old girl
to fly that fast on the broom she was using. On
the other hand, all the brooms used in this
competition were extensively searched for appealingness
before the equal. It could very well be that young
Linda team spirit is just an exceptionally good
Quidditch participant. If that is the type, then scouts
from professional teams may wish well to pay attention
to this competition."

Perhaps the most intriguing part of this story is
that the Hogwarts Seeker is none former than James I
Potter, son of the legendary Gryffindor quester
Harry thrower. Epistle of James Potter, 15, has lived up to
his father 's reputation in the past tense and has never
lost a match this quickly before. Neither James River
or his Fatherhood were useable for comment.

Is Linda morale a beguiler ? Or is she merely the
next greatest Quidditch headliner ?

"Great,"Albus set down the newspaper,"First she 's going to win this competition and then be drafted to play for Puddlemere United."

"We do n't have to worry about her playing for the Cannons,"St. John smirked,"That would get rid of their awed reputation."

"That would be a bad matter because ... ?"Matt said.

"I would n't get to make fun of them anymore,"John grinned.

"Not a bad thing,"Matt replied.

The stallion schooling was talking about the article all day long. Everywhere Albus went, person was discussing it. Most probably due to this, James spent the day in his dormitory.

"Why 'd Skeeter have to stick Henry James in that article,"Albus lamented as he, Matt, lav, and Kaden wandered the corridors. rosiness and Amanda had gone to find Linda, to see if she knew anymore details about the investigation.

"Because she 's Rita Skeeter,"John said,"She never writes an article without sticking your dad in it somehow."

"I know. Rita Skeeter 's horrible,"Albus said.

"There are a few newsman in Australia who could give her a run for her money,"Matt muttered.

"So irresponsible !"a hushed spokesperson said from a classroom they were passing.

Albus stopped. He did n't recognize the voice and it did n't sound happy. He gestured for his friends to stop as well and paused to listen.

"We 're already skating on thin ice !"the man was saying,"outset she catches the stool pigeon ten second into the starting time match and now she flies too fast for the great unwashed to see and tucker James I thrower ? Now there 's an investigation for Merlin 's sake !"

"I did n't bang she was going to do that !"another man said,"I made it clear to her that she could only fly slightly better than the other players !"

"Told you they were cheating,"John whispered.

"We were n't the ones arguing with you,"Albus replied,"That was Rose."

"The bloke doing the yelling is the Aboriginal Australian headmaster,"mat said.

"The other one 's probably the maitre d'hotel, then,"Albus said.

"fountainhead, you must not experience told her adequate because now she 's on the strawman page of the prophesier and the Ministry is investigating ! Do you have any idea what 's going to bechance if anyone finds out ?"the master raised his voice.

"Of path I do !"

"Let me refresh your memory anyway. We 'll both be fired and Australia will be out of the competition. Hell, we 'll be lucky to get away with amercement and no gaol time !"

"That would n't be a bad thing,"John muttered.

"You hear that ?"the headmaster barked,"Someone 's out there."

Albus turned in panic to his friends and before he could run, the door opened all the way and Albus was staring at who he assumed to be the Australian Quidditch police chief. The man was tall and gangling, the sodding build for a pursuer. His hair was messy in a way that reminded Albus of his father, but this man 's hair was light brown.

The schoolmaster appeared behind the man, along with a surly looking boy who must 've been around slip 's age. Albus assumed he was the helper captain.

"fountainhead, who have we here,"the headmaster smirked.

Albus was frozen in place. The back of his mind said to run, but he could n't get his ramification to work. He was staring the fella who was so prejudice against werewolf that he refused to let Matt pay heed his school in the facial expression.

"You 're the Potter boy,"the schoolmaster continued,"The unseasoned one."

Albus forced himself to nod only because he did n't really want to be mistaken for James IV at the moment.

"That means ..."Killigan 's heart moved from Albus to John, Kaden, and then Matt,"That one of you is probably,"his centre rested on Matt and then he smiled,"The Eckerton boy. I was told you were here."

Albus turned to see at lusterlessness, who was now almost as whiteness as prof Binns. Albus shook his capitulum, grabbed Matt 's arm, and took off running. The footsteps behind him told him that John and Kaden were following.

Albus did n't end running until he made it to the Marauder 's Den. He completely ignored the Prefect who told him not to run in the corridors and Filch 's new cat.

"Bloody hell, how did he manage to figure out which one of us you were ?"John asked flatness once they shut the door,"He has n't seen you in years !"

"Lucky guess,"Kaden shrugged.

Matt shook his read/write head."No. None of you lot have blonde hair."

"But still, how does he fuck I 'm admirer with you ?"Albus asked,"Of all the blond haired students here, he picked you. He somehow knows we 're acquaintance. Remember, he said 'you must be the ceramicist boy', which is n't abnormal. Everyone knows who I am. But then he said 'which means you must be the Eckerton boy .'soul 's telling him about you."

"So much for trying to neglect him,"lustrelessness groaned,"Now he knows who I am. Merlin knows what he 's going to try to do now."

"Why does he even care ?"Kaden asked,"I thought he did n't need you at his school day. If he hates loup-garou so a good deal, would n't it make Thomas More gumption that he ignore you ?"

Kaden had a stop. Albus had n't really thought about it before, but it was form of strange that Killigan would be so interested in mat. But then, why would he let a vampire attend his school ?

"That actually makes a lot of sense, Kaden,"flatness said,"Why does he care ?"

Albus did n't hump, but something told him it meant goose egg good. Whatever Killigan was doing here, it went cryptic than just trying to win a Quidditch tournament by having a vampire for a Seeker.

******

It took the Ministry three Clarence Shepard Day Jr. to nail the investigating. During this time legion Ministry official appeared at the school day and held interview with Killigan, the Australian captain, and the Australian players. They even interviewed James River, Oliver Natalie Wood, Todd David Smith, and prof Kendrick. Albus heard that every Scots heather on the Aboriginal Australian team had been stripped and checked for illegal magic.

The termination were announced before Rita Skeeter wrote another clause. A Ministry functionary read them at dinner Wednesday evening.

"Upon close review of all the Aussie broom handle as well as extensive interviews with everyone involved, the Ministry is able to say that Linda team spirit 's capture of the Snitch was a result of pure endowment and nothing illegal. I thank you all for your cooperation during this time,"he said and then resumed his bum next to Kendrick.

The Great lobby erupted in angry shout. Everyone was staring at Linda and it looked like she wanted to evaporate. pink wine and Amanda were sitting on either side of her and Rose was whispering to her.

Albus and his protagonist were n't expecting anything different, but they had to act angry for appearance 's sake and it was not difficult to do so.

Kendrick eventually had to stomach up and secern everyone to tranquilize down. It worked, but cypher stopped talking about the results.

It was still potential for Hogwarts to win the challenger. If they won every match from now on and continued doing well in dueling. The contention was n't even half over, so there was plenty of time to pull up ahead. However, the chances of doing so were low so long as Linda was playing Seeker for Australia.

The rest of the week passed with continual Quidditch discussion. Saint James was still abnormally subdued and sat quietly with Ben, Cedric, and Nate every eve in the unwashed room. Albus was hoping it would blow over during the holiday. It was strange seeing his pal so quiet.

There was a Hogsmeade visit that Saturday and true to her word, rose wine went with Albus and his friends instead of Linda.

It was a particularly cold and blustering wintertime day with a steady snowfall that had already dumped six inches on the curtilage. This was n't nearly enough snow to observe mass out of Hogsmeade and all the store were full to capacity.

Kaden had begged Albus to give him the map so he could purloin in, but Albus refused. The Hogsmeade visit before Noel seemed too hazardous. Too many students went on that one. The valentine 's Day one would be safe, when the other students were too absorbed in their passion lives to discover a secondly twelvemonth in Hogsmeade.

"Let 's go get Butterbeer first,"Amanda suggested as they made their way into the Village,"I 'm already immobilize solid."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed.

The ternary Broomsitcks was already packed, but they managed to line up a table and Albus went to get five Butterbeers. When he returned, everyone was talking about what they were doing for the holidays.

"My mum has decided she wants one of my aunts to do Christmas this twelvemonth,"John said,"She 's done Christmas at our house since she and my dad got get married and it 's finally tire her out. The funny affair is that none of my aunts really know what to do, so my mum is doing as much work as she always does."

"I ca n't guess Xmas not being at the Burrow,"blush wine said.

"Me either,"Albus replied as he set down the Butterbeer,"The burrow is just so Christmasy."

"Believe it or not, but I 'm not going to Australia for Christmas this year,"mat announced.

John spit out his Butterbeer."What ?"he coughed,"You always go to Australia."

"I know,"matt said,"Never had a Christmas anyplace else."

"Why ?"Albus asked.

"well, you know how my dad 's going to be the new fountainhead of the section of the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. He officially starts on January second. But the Ministry is throwing a fancy party for him on New Year 's Eve. He did n't really want it, but they insisted. So, we 've got to go to that. Hopefully it 'll be substantially than the party my grandparents have."

"Rose and I will probably go to that, too. My dad 's always invited to those matter since he 's head of the Auror Department. My whole family goes to them. There 's always something to do, especially if Saint James the Apostle is feeling particularly impish. pink wine 's parents get invited, too. So does my Uncle Percy,"Albus explained.

Matt grinned."Well if you lot are there it wo n't be bad."

"This party 's going to be anything but boring,"Albus grinned.

"Never thought I 'd wish I was going to a phantasy company,"John sighed,"How about you, Amanda ? Any parties ?"

"Nope,"Amanda laughed,"Just disbursement prison term with my family."

They finished their Butterbeer and went back out into the Charles Percy Snow. Honeydukes was their kickoff stop, where mat proceeded to buy sufficiency chocolate to feast all of Gryffindor. His excuse was that it was for Christmas presents, but Albus doubted as to whether the coffee would ever stool it home.

Honeydukes was really too crowded to stick in very long, as were most of the other shops. They wound up just wandering up and down High Street until they got to the shrieking Shack.

After a very brief sweet sand verbena fight blush wine suggested they just go back to the school and spend prison term in the Marauder 's Den. Nobody argued since they were all low temperature and wet from the snow.

******

The next two calendar week went by in a blur for Albus. It seemed like he just went from one Quidditch practice session to another, with dueling practice session and lessons with Balladanis thrown in. Albus had started making progress with his cuticle charms, but so had Malfoy and neither of them were improve than the other.

At their last lesson of the terminal figure, Balladanis reiterated how important it was for them not to practice while at home. He then told them to have a good holiday and be ready to work even harder when they returned.

Linda 's amazing catch of the snitch had already started to blow over before condition ended. Everyone seemed much more focused on getting a few weeks off from school than a lost Quidditch match. This helped return James to his convention ego and he finished off the term with his usual pre-holiday prank.

This one was a little less harmless as he just charmed the suits of armor to sing Xmas Christmas carol at random meter of the day. Of course, the carol were alternated with 'Hogwarts will win the Cup'and 'Hogwarts is better at Quidditch than Australia'and 'Hogwarts will beat New House of York in the next match'. James was never caught, though.

Eventually the carol wore off as did the pro-Hogwarts messages and everyone packed and got quick to go home. Albus wondered for a moment what it would be like to ride out at schoolhouse over the holiday. He knew his dad had done nearly every year, but Albus could n't imagine not being with his family for Christmas.

Albus and his booster found a compartment towards the backrest of the train and settled in for the tenacious journey.

"What are the Aboriginal Australian and American language tyke doing for Christmas ?"Kaden asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"Some of them are going home, but most are just staying at Hogwarts. Linda 's staying,"rosebush told them.

"I bet it was Linda,"John muttered absentmindedly.

"What ?"Albus asked.

"Linda. I 'll bet every Knut in my pocket that she 's the one who told Killigan who Matt was,"John explained.

"You 're just mad at Linda for winning the match,"pink wine rolled her eyes,"She did not narrate Killigan."

"Why not ?"Albus asked,"He 's her headmaster. Why would n't she evidence him ?"

"I do n't know. I just do n't think she did,"blush wine muttered.

"Even that does n't excuse why Killigan wanted to know,"Amanda pointed out.

"Which means we have to line up out,"Albus said.

"Find out what ?"Matt asked sleepily. The total moon was that night and he had fallen asleep as soon as they got on the train.

"Why Killigan was so interested in you that clock time we spied on him,"Albus explained.

"Oh,"flatness said as he leaned his oral sex against the window,"How are we going to do that ?"

Albus did n't know. All he knew was that it could be problematic and there was a big opportunity of them getting in trouble. An unnerve silence fell upon the compartment. No one knew how they were going to get answers.

"Do you recall Linda 's teammate know she 's a vampire ?"Kaden asked towards the end of the journey.

Albus, who had been drifting off to log Z's, lifted his straits up."Good question."

"They do n't,"rose answered,"They just think she 's really good."

"Interesting,"Albus said,"I bet she would n't be allowed to play professionally."

"She would n't,"John confirmed,"lamia ca n't play professional Quidditch. It 's unfair to the rest of the teams."

"I 'd pay a lot of money to see two teams of lamia playing Quidditch against each former,"Albus grinned.

"You would n't be able to see them,"John laughed,"They 'd be flying too fast."

"I 'd care to see vampires fiddle football,"Kaden announced.

"Of course you would,"John rolled his eyes.

The boy spent the rest of the tripper discussing vampire Quidditch while Rose and Amanda played Muggle card biz. Before farsighted they were in London.

All of their parents were standing together on the platform. Albus said a promptly sayonara to mat before his parents hurried him out of the place.


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

For those who are interest, I posted a sorting of epilogue/short continuation to In Moonlight 's Shadow. It 's called Life Amidst the Moonlight and is on my author 's page.