Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


A mother kangaroo stood absolutely still in the moonlit forest, watching her baby play in the Bush in nominal head of her. The female parent would gently pull the roo back every prison term he got too far away. She was watching him carefully when a loud pop startled her. The joey hopped back over to his mother and jumped into her sac. They hopped away quickly, not noticing the man who had just appeared a few meters away.

The man swore under his breathing time as his face contorted. His one shot face was elongating and his black tomentum lightened to a brownish nuance. He stumbled around and kicked off his shoe as his feet grew too large for them. It was not only his feet that were growing, but his entire body. The man was now six column inch taller than he had been when he first Apparated into the forest. Finally, it stopped. The man now looked completely unlike and kind of strange in Muggle article of 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 clothing into the bag and set off at a brisk pace.

`` Bloody Muggle plane, '' he muttered to himself, `` Ministry ought to just take into account international Flooing. ``

It was a very quiet nighttime, with only the occasional owl hooting in the distance. The Sun Myung Moon was not fully enough to provide enough wanton to enlighten the course, but the man did not want to draw attention to himself by lighting his scepter. He merely stumbled along, swearing every time he tripped over a rock'n'roll or a corner root.

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

A unretentive distance away stood a rather large home. It was not big enough to be considered a mansion, but substantially larger than to the highest degree theater. The man glanced at his watch before continuing towards the house.

`` shit, '' he muttered as he noticed that his scout was still set for British prison term. He pulled out his verge and pointed it at his wrist. The hands on the lookout man swirled until coming to a plosive. It was nearly midnight.

There was one lone light on in the house. early than that, the billet 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 yard and ascended the whole tone up to the front door.

The man knocked three clock time and stood waiting for somebody to let him in. A forgetful while later, the door opened a crack. However, it did not appear that anyone had actually answered it.

`` Is you needing something, sir ? '' a squeaky voice asked.

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

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

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

`` Come in, '' the elf replied, `` Is you wanting a drunkenness ? ``

`` No, '' the man muttered as he entered the home, `` Just show me to Lubar. ``

`` Yes, sir. This way. ``

The man followed the elf through the extravagant household. He always wondered how Lubar managed to open everything. It 's not like he made practically money at his job. There were statues, workplace of art, amber encrusted mesa, Oriental rugs, and the fanciest furniture in all of the rooms he passed.

The elf led him to a room with the threshold halfway open. twinkle was streaming out of it, but the man could n't find out any spokesperson. Lubar must be alone, he thought. That would be ripe anyway.

The man pushed past the elf and into the room without knocking. He did n't see the need. Lubar was household. surely, the man had n't seen him in geezerhood, but he was family unit 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 cheek. He looked up when the man stepped into the way. He looked momentarily shocked, but regained his composure and stood up. Lubar was quite a bit shorter than the man in the door and was wearing alike Black robes.

`` Jarrett, '' Lubar gestured for him to get in, `` What an, strange, surprise. ``

The man, Jarrett, walked in and took a seat in the red leather death chair in battlefront of the desk. Lubar resumed his attitude behind the desk.

`` To what do I owe the joy ? '' Lubar asked, folding his script in front of him. `` It 's been a yearn time, Jarrett. ``

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

`` I have half a mind to throw you out of this family after what your brother-in-law did to my crony, '' Lubar growled.

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

Lubar raised his eyebrow. `` Interesting. And has your married woman been in physical contact with him ? ``

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

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

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

`` I am quite singular as to how you managed to get here. Is n't your entire ministry after you ? I pay attending to magical news all around the world, you know. I have been following your floor for the past year, '' Lubar changed the subject.

Jarrett smiled. It had been surprisingly easy to get to Commonwealth of Australia with Muggle transportation. It took a spell and was rather vexatious, but easy.

`` Yes, the Ministry is after me. However, I took the shore leave of using Muggle transportation to go far here. I simply took some Polyjuice Potion, bought an airplane tag, and now I 'm here. ``

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

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

`` True. Now, what can I do for you ? What could you possibly need that would cause you to take Muggle transportation to get here ? Somehow, I do n't intend you would go through such extreme cadence to rekindle a friendly relationship that died a tenner ago. ``

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

`` Something about dueling Harry thrower ? '' Lubar smirked, `` That might be the stupid thing you have ever done. ``

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

`` We ? ``

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

`` Ah, '' Lubar leaned back in his chair, `` Do you care to enlighten me about your reasons ? ``

`` We want to unite the Deathly Hallows in Order to assist our mission to continue the programme of Godhead Voldemort, '' Jarrett explained, `` Harry potter knows the location 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, `` Mind you, I thought it was just a children '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 downfall. ``

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

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

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

`` Two of them, '' Jarrett corrected him, `` We thought we fuck where all three were, but we were wrong about the senior baton. fountainhead, 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 ceramicist 's middle child, Albus. The Christ's Resurrection Stone is residing in the timber following to Hogwarts, although I am not certain where. ``

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

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

`` That sounds like an absolutely abysmal plan. Did you actually believe ceramist 's kid would n't severalise him his full cousin was captured ? ``

`` We form of hoped so- ''

`` Shut up. The distributor point is, that was a horrifying design, 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 ? helper get your son out of prison ? How in the gens of Merlin do you theorize I 'll be capable to do that ? ``

`` Well, you 're a high ranking Ministry official, you must throw a lot of influence in these kinds of things, '' Jarrett stammered.

`` I am a high gear ranking Ministry official in Australia, not UK, '' Lubar laughed, `` Why do you think I have any influence over there ? ``

`` But do n't you keep in striking with Britain 's section for the Regulation and Control of Magical brute ? '' Jarrett asked.

Lubar laughed. `` I do not contact Britain 's section for the ordinance and dominance of Magical fauna. My opinions are vastly different from those in Britain. I would not desire to affiliate myself with the feller there. Plus, my public figure is mud with the British department for the Regulation and restraint of Magical beast. ``

Jarrett looked curiously at Lubar. `` That is heavy to believe. What did you possibly do to lay down them dislike you ? ``

`` That, is a very prospicient story, '' Lubar replied, `` The old head of my department was a very liberal man. He sympathized with werewolves and disliked any sort of hard-and-fast 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 jurisprudence. Then I became head of the department and passed to a greater extent legal philosophy. He hated me. He moved his family to United Kingdom, where he got a job in lycanthrope backing Services. Turns out, he was planning on moving anyway, even before he got fired. He wanted his lycanthrope kid to attend school. The headmaster of the Aboriginal Australian School of Sorcery obviously did not let him take care. The Hogwarts schoolmaster did. As far as I know, he 's there now. Once there, he made certainly everyone in his department knew my gens and what I believed. They do not speak kindly of me. ``

Jarrett rubbed his Kuki-Chin. `` Interesting. So there 's a lycanthrope at Hogwarts ? Quinton never told me anything about that. ``

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

`` Do you know the loup-garou 's name ? '' Jarrett asked.

`` Do n't remember his first figure. death public figure 's Eckerton. ``

Jarrett thought for a instant and then his eyes popped out of his head. `` Eckerton ? ! Quinton 's mentioned that kid. He 's one of the I we dueled with last twelvemonth ! He 's booster with ceramicist 's kid. ``

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

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

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

Jarrett 's centre lit up. `` So you can avail ? ``

`` 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 incorrect. Your first priority should birth been the Resurrection Stone, not that Invisibility Cloak. Yes, the Harlan Stone will be unmanageable to find, but cipher currently owns it. It 's sitting in the bush. You 've got to search that bush and get that Stone. Then, you use the Stone. ``

`` Use it ? ``

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

`` Oh, right. ``

`` Then, you ask Voldemort what happened to the Elder Wand ! '' Lubar continued, `` That affair is the unspoiled Hallow. The Cloak is the to the lowest degree useful. Anyone can cook themselves invisible with a Disillusionment appeal. You 've got to get that wand and Harlan F. Stone first. ``

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

`` good, '' Lubar replied, `` And I 'll go to United Kingdom and help you. ``

`` Seriously ? ``

`` Yes. I 'll make sure as shooting you do it properly. And I can check up on that werewolf 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 year. ``

`` What might that be ? ``

`` I can not explain in particular. There is an event happening at Hogwarts this year. Students from Australia are participating. I have reasons to be there. ``

`` Shall I wait for you to search for the Stone ? ``

`` Yes, '' Lubar said, `` I 'll bring in trusted you do n't screw it up. And perhaps, while I 'm there, we can exercise out some way to violate your idiot son out of Azkaban. ``

`` Thanks, '' Jarrett muttered.

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


A/N : I love it when editing takes LE fourth dimension than I thought ! Big thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, who also named this story.

This storey is more twine with In Moon 's dark than my other Albus fib have been. People who have already read IMS will have it off 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 narration if you don't.

I may be switching my update days to Wednesdays because I 'm quite busy on Thursday. It 'll depend on how the semester goes.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



Albus Severus Potter awoke to a high gear pitched shriek. 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 pointless for him to try and go back to sleep.

Lily had been impossible to deal out with ever since Albus returned menage 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 do it the response to or did not want to answer.

Albus quickly changed his clothes and ran downstairs. It was a enigma as to what Lily was shrieking about now. His mum probably told her some new piece of entropy about Hogwarts.

`` Al ! '' Lily shoved a piece of sheepskin in Albus 's typeface, `` It came ! It came ! My Hogwarts letter of the alphabet came ! ``

So that was what the shrieking was about, Albus thought. Lily had been waiting for that varsity letter all summertime. Every forenoon she 'd look out the windowpane waiting for the stake owl to arrive.

`` congratulations, Lily, '' Albus grinned at her and continued his walking down to the kitchen. Lily ran ahead of him and was literally dancing around the room by the clip Albus arrived.

`` Lily ! '' King James I shouted, `` One does not pipe up and dance like a lunatic when one receives their Hogwarts letter. ``

`` Oh, really, James ? '' Ginny smirked at him, `` Were n't you the one to abide on top of the table and do some sort of dancing ? ``

James blushed. `` Er, no. ``

`` Oh, do n't be ashamed, James River, '' Albus grinned as he sat down next to his crony, `` At least you did n't shriek like a girl. ``

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

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

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

`` Stop it, Henry James, '' Ginny scolded as she set a bowl of oatmeal and a few envelopes in figurehead of Albus, `` You got some stake as well, Al. ``

Albus picked up the chain reactor of letters and opened the top one. It was the usual book of account leaning as well as his Hogsmeade permission teddy. `` Here, Mum, '' he handed her the skid, `` You 'll take to sign that. ``

Ginny took the sheepskin. `` I ca n't believe you 're a third yr, 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 early envelope. It was from lustrelessness.

Dear Albus,

My parents said you could get sojourn
on the 16th for a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr.. They 're
going to take us to Diagon Alley too.
Let me have intercourse if you can come !

Your protagonist,
Matt

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

Ginny read the varsity letter over Albus 's articulatio humeri. `` sure. We 'll meet you in Diagon skittle alley and get St. James the Apostle and Lily 's stuff then. ``

Albus grinned. He was very shake about going to Matt 's house. He had never been there. He hoped that bathroom and Kaden would be able to go as well. They had n't seen each early in about a month, when Albus and Rose had had their birthday company.

`` Thanks, Mum. ``

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

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

`` I do n't desire to hold back ! ``

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

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

******

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

Eventually the sixteenth 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 minute earlier and they had spent their time trying to stay put away from Lily.

`` You know, Kaden, you were as irritating as Lily a twelvemonth 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 loudly fling. lustrelessness 's entire family had Apparated into the drawing way. Ginny walked into the room and greeted Matt 's parents.

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

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

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

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

`` All right hand, '' 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 large airfield. There was a log house in the distance.

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

`` It 's not, '' Matt said as he pointed to the log house, `` That 's my menage. ``

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

`` My parents put anti-Apparition wards on the house, '' Matt explained.

`` Why ? '' Kaden asked.

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

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

`` There are some thing I do n't tell anyone, Kaden, '' lusterlessness sighed.

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

Matt 's house was the but one in the sphere. Albus could n't see any other buildings besides a shed behind the house. There were field of operation surrounding the menage and a low fence surrounding the property. Beyond the fencing was farmland.

Matt 's dad unlocked the door and Albus followed him inside. He stopped in the entryway and looked around. The topographic point was about as different as a business firm could be from Grimmauld billet. It was open and airy and decorated in a modern yet rustic way. From the doorway, Albus could see the kitchen straight ahead, the dining elbow room next to it, and the bread and butter room next to the door. On the early side of the door was a set of stairs leading upstairs. Albus continued walking into the living way 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 tunnel did. Except it was a great deal cleaner. matt had said his mum was sort of a slap-up nut, but Albus was n't expecting it to be this neat.

`` Great firm, matte, '' Albus grinned.

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

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

`` I 'll go get John now, '' Mr. Eckerton announced, `` You can come, flatness. I 'll be capable to Apparate both of you. ``

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

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

Albus nodded and sat down on one of the sofa. It was quite comfortable. Kaden sat down future to him and put his foot up on the java board, earning a unforgiving gaze from Mrs. Eckerton. Kaden sheepishly removed his feet from the table.

Amy sat down on a death chair and pulled a book off the table. She opened it and began reading. It was some sorting of potions book.

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

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

`` That 's big ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` I like potions too. Albus thinks I 'm mad. fountainhead, so do Matt and John the Divine. ``

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

`` Me, too, '' Kaden said.

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

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

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

`` The what ? '' Kaden asked.

`` The Australian School of Sorcery, '' Amy repeated, `` The school of legerdemain in Australia. I went there for three years. Then we moved here. ``

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

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

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

`` Yeah, my 1st class, '' Albus replied, `` I never really noticed that he did n't tell you. ``

`` Well, he did n't, '' Kaden muttered, `` But it would explain the funny remark speech pattern he 's got. ``

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

The three of them sat quietly for another few minutes. Kaden began to joke and it became louder and louder until Albus turned to front at him.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

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

Albus groaned. forget it to Kaden to reckon that out.

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

The front door opened and Matt and John ran inside followed by Mr. Eckerton. John paused in the entranceway and looked around.

`` Whoa, '' he grinned, `` This planetary house is bloody brilliant ! ``

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

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

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

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

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

`` Bye, Dad. ``

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

Albus grabbed his bag and followed matt upstairs. John and Kaden thundered behind them. Once they reached the top, Matt led them to the door on the left along the spinal column paries.

`` This is my way, '' flatness announced as they entered.

Albus stepped inside and looked around. The carpet was blue and the bulwark were white. It was messy than the rest of the sign of the zodiac, but nowhere near as messy as James 's room. There was a Chudley cannon bed cover on the bed and multiple posters on the wall.

`` Nice bed, '' John smirked, `` Nice to see the shank can still sell ware. If only they devoted that effort to their acting .... ''

`` Shut it, lav, '' matte replied, `` The Cannons have been playing better this time of year. ``

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

Matt groaned. `` Come on, I 'll show you the early rooms. ``

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

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

`` strait like Rose 's dream seed reliable, '' john laughed.

The program library was twice the size of lusterlessness 's elbow room. Bookshelves covered all the wall and there were a few desks sitting in the middle of the elbow room. A spongelike looking couch was sitting below one of the windowpane and there were a few armchairs in various station. There were also four crib in the center, but Albus doubted they were normally there.

Albus tossed his bag down on a cot as John 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 business firm with this many playscript, '' Kaden said.

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

`` You should see rose wine 's house, '' Albus commented.

`` You 've got a lot of leger about magical creatures, '' Kaden pointed out.

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

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

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

`` So, '' Albus changed the subject, `` How was your slip to New York ? ``

The discomfort that had been on Matt 's nerve minute before disappeared. `` It was brilliant ! We had so much fun. ``

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

lusterlessness laughed. `` Just like every former one I 've been on. ``

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

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

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

`` He turned a lovely tincture of purple, '' Kaden laughed.

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

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

`` Did I tell you that my dad 's getting a promotion ? '' matte asked.

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

`` The head of the Department of the Regulation and ascendancy of Magical puppet is retiring at the end of the class, '' Matt explained, `` And he 's recommending my dad for the spatial relation. It 's not final, but it 'll most likely happen. ``

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

`` Yeah. Dad was n't certainly he wanted the promotion, but after thinking about it, he decided to take it if it 's offered to him, '' lustrelessness continued.

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

`` Well, that 's what he did in Australia. And he hated it towards the end. But he thinks it 'll be upright 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 loup-garou accompaniment serving. ``

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

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

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

`` Pretty practically, yeah, '' flatness said quietly, `` But I like Hogwarts, so I do n't really manage that we had to move. ``

`` How about you, Albus ? '' John asked, `` Anything exciting happening in the most celebrated wizarding family ? ``

Albus rolled his eyes. If anyone besides his acquaintance referred to his sept that way, he probably would have hexed them.

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

`` What is it ? '' John asked eagerly, `` Is Slughorn finally retiring for in force ? ``

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

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

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

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

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded.

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

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

`` Oh, well, that makes mother wit, '' matt replied.

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

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` Dad did n't enjoin me. He said he wants me to evolve my own opinions of the teacher. ``

`` I wonder if we 'll ever induce the exact like staff for two years in a row, '' John commented, `` I mean, inaugural year they were all new to us. finis 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 overnice, '' lustrelessness said, `` So what do you lot want to do ? We 've got a few hours until dinner. ``

`` Hmm, '' Albus mused, `` Want to flirt Quidditch ? That field would be first-class for it. ``

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

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

The boy decided it was as good an idea as any and they ran downstairs. Albus had limited experience with football game. He had watched a couple peer and played it a few times, but that was it. He did n't think John had ever played and he was n't for certain about lustrelessness. privy was skeptical about the fun of football game, but he was willing to move over it a try.

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

`` We 're going to bet football game, '' mat said as he pulled the door open.

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

Albus followed Matt down the deck of cards stairs and into the field. He stood succeeding to mat and John and all three of them turned to Kaden, who had set the ball on the background and had one groundwork on it.

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

`` A few meter, '' Albus answered.

`` Nope, '' trick said.

`` When I was jr., I played a bit, '' matte replied, `` But I was never any good. ``

Kaden sighed. `` All right. Why do n't we just trifle two on two. John and I versus Albus and Matt. ``

The other three boys nodded. Kaden pointed out two different Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree that would dish as makeshift destination. He future explained the convention of the game and they began playing.

Albus found the conception very similar to that of his Chaser position in Quidditch, only he could n't use his hands. That was very odd. He had fuss keeping the ball near his human foot and even more worry aiming it to Matt. Half the clock time Kaden would steal it and he would n't even get a chance to slide by it.

John was hardly any dependable than Albus. He never managed to kick the orchis where he aimed it, but Kaden 's master skill seemed to compensate for John 's lack of skill. The two of them ( well, Kaden ) had scored more finish than Albus and Matt.

flatness seemed to be able to aim the clump, but he wound up tripping over it a lot. He did manage to tally a few goal, though.

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

`` John ! '' Albus shouted as John picked up the orchis and took off across the subject field, `` You ca n't meet the testicle ! ``

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

Kaden groaned and kicked the egg back into maneuver. `` That 's cheat, lav ! And we 're winning, so we do n't need to cheat ! ``

`` I do n't care ! '' John grinned and picked the testis up again.

Kaden tackled John and tried to wriggle the ball out of his branch. Saint John the Apostle tried to escape, but Kaden was holding onto his leg.

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

`` Albus ! assist ! Your first cousin is Muggle dueling with me ! ``

`` Well, we are playing a Muggle sport, John Lackland, '' 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 footing. He held the ball out of Kaden 's compass and Kaden tackled him. St. John, now free of Kaden 's wrath, grabbed lusterlessness 's leg and pulled him into the mix.

`` Hey ! '' Matt shouted, `` I did n't direct the football ! ``

`` Department of Energy n't count, '' St. John the Apostle grinned, `` We 're not going to let you stand there while we 're Muggle dueling each other. ``

`` Got it ! '' Kaden shouted a few minutes later. He held the football up over his capitulum. `` And I declare John and I the winners ! ``

Albus stood up and agitate his psyche. lav and matte stood up after him. bathroom looked quite prideful at the win, even though he had n't really contributed to it.

`` Congratulations, '' lusterlessness smirked, `` You beat a fumbling wizard and a Chaser at football. ``

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

`` son ! '' Mrs. Eckerton shouted from the window, `` Dinner is ready ! ``

Albus grinned as he walked towards the family. As much as he enjoyed his own theatre, it was fun to spend a few twenty-four hours with lustrelessness and his other friends. Plus, the lady friend were n't there. They had never really had prison term away from rosebush and Amanda and it was form of fun. Not that he did n't revel their company, there were just matter they could n't really do around Rose and Amanda. Like turn a football match into a wrestling match, for example.

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

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

`` Well, I 'll take aim 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 grand reassessment ! You make my day when you leave reviews ! Also, I will be updating on Wednesdays from now on, they 're just easier this semester.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


dinner with matte 's parents was interesting. Mealtimes at Albus 's house were always chaotic and never really planned in great particular. It seemed like one of his parents was always coming or going. Then there was the fact that at to the lowest degree one of his first cousin or Teddy always seemed to be showing up partway through the meal. But Albus did n't really mind. He form of liked the chaos that was his family.

Mealtimes at Matt 's sign, on the former hand, seemed more formal and planned. His mum and sign elf, Ellie, cooked a shower ranch and served it on fancier ravisher than Albus 's family had. And flatness did n't give any congener to randomly dip in. Albus enjoyed it, though. The formality of it did n't faze Kaden in the least and he dominated the conversation, which centered around Hogwarts, Quidditch, and football game.

The son spent the evening in the den performing cycle after round of Exploding cinch. Since rosiness was n't there, they all had a probability of winning. Matt 's parents joined in for a few turn and once they left, Albus and his friends talked about the upcoming school class. John Lackland and Kaden agreed that they needed to rip a few marauderesque pranks, but Albus and matt were a bit loth. The job of school day pranksters was currently held by Saint James and his friends and Albus really did n't want everyone to intend 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 matte up the stairs 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 arouse ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus whispered back.

`` I 'm really beaming you came, '' lusterlessness replied.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` You three are the first friends I 've ever had over here, '' Matt said quietly, `` I never really thought it would ever pass. ``

Albus really did n't have sex what to say to that. He knew mat 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 thinker.

`` wellspring, I 'll definitely want to come back, '' Albus decided to say.

`` Thanks, '' lustrelessness said, `` Well, good night. ``

`` '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 somebody 's whispering.

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

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

`` Are you hungry ? '' Albus recognized John 's voice.

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

`` Want to go chance some food ? '' John asked.

`` Sure. ``

Albus listened as John and Kaden got up from their cots and crept out of the elbow room. There was the audio of footsteps on the stairs, and then quiet.

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

lusterlessness rolled over and Albus groaned. It was always so difficult to wake him up. `` Matt ! '' Albus shouted a small louder.

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

`` What ? '' he asked.

`` John Lackland and Kaden went to get a snack, '' Albus told him. Albus did n't roll in the hay what form of bite the two of them were going to get, but he had a feeling they would n't earn it unproblematic. John and Kaden were known to add up up with some pretty mad ideas when they were together, especially when they did n't have Albus or Matt to antagonize them.

`` All right, '' Matt groaned and got out of his cot, `` Let 's go. ``

Albus got up and the two of them quietly left the room and went down to the kitchen. The light was on, but Albus could n't hear anything going on. That could either be a in effect 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, '' lav commented, `` But brilliant. ``

privy and Kaden emerged from the refrigerator carrying diverse containers. They set them down on the parry and then turned around.

`` Oh, hey Albus and matt ! '' John the Divine grinned, `` Want any of our midnight bite ? ``

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

`` Oh, add up on, Albus, '' Kaden grinned, `` Mashed potato and chocolate cake would be a expert combining. ``

`` Oh, nasty ! '' Matt grimaced and sat down next to Albus.

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

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

`` No thanks, '' Albus said.

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

`` So, if you 're not down here to eat our delicious food, what are you here for ? '' St. John the Apostle asked as he dumped the cake into the potatoes.

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

`` Oh, relax, '' can grinned.

Albus watched as Kaden stirred the tater and cake combination. It actually did n't expect that bad. Almost like some sort of unknown pudding. Albus was sure the ketchup would neutralize any kind of potentiality edibility, though.

`` Hey, what 's this thing ? '' lavatory gestured to a black-market box that was attached to the bottom of the closet along the wall. 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'menage, but he could n't ever come back using it.

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

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

`` It cooks intellectual nourishment, '' Matt explained, `` loyal than an oven. ``

`` Oh, '' John shrugged and picked up a branching that was sitting on the counter. He put it in the microwave and went to turn it on.

Matt grabbed his arm. `` You ca n't put metallic element in it ! It 'll intermit ! ``

Albus smirked. And Saint John said he did n't demand oversight. He definitely did, especially since there were Muggle appliances everywhere.

`` well that 's dullard, '' Gospel According to John replied and took the fork out.

flatness shrugged. `` It 's Muggle applied science. ``

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

`` Came with the house. And my mum like Muggle technology for cooking. ``

`` Oh, '' John said and turned to Kaden, who had begun pouring cetchup in the mixing, `` Let 's put the unit affair in the microwave ! ``

Matt groaned and turned to Albus. `` This wo n't sour out expert. ``

Albus laughed. `` Probably not. But Kaden 's Muggle Born, so I 'm pretty sure he knows how to put to work the microwave oven. ``

`` Good head, '' Matt said, `` privy ! Let Kaden do the microwaving. ``

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

Kaden took the bowl and put it in the microwave. He turned it on and Albus watched as the pipe bowl turned around and around on the within crustal plate. It was rather clever, he thought. Almost like magic. It seemed like a magic box that cooked food in record time.

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

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

`` Me ! '' can shouted and grabbed a few spoons off the counter.

`` No way, '' Albus shook his head. The smorgasbord in the bowlful was the consistence of pudding, but was a strange crimson brown color that was absolutely disgusting looking.

`` Me either, '' Matt said, `` Just the scent of that grosses me out. ``

whoremonger took a puff of air and grinned. `` feel good ! ``

`` Oh, vulgar ! '' matte covered his mouth.

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

`` Good affair 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 skanky thing I have ever seen you eat, '' Albus announced.

toilet tried it next and pronounced it delicious as well. Albus and matte just stared at each other and tried not to watch as John and Kaden polished off the relief of the concoction.

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

`` Almost, '' whoremonger said.

`` Done, '' Kaden replied.

`` You 'd better rinse the bowls out, '' Matt said.

Kaden nodded and began to wash the stunner. toilet returned to the refrigerator and started rummaging around again.

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

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

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

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

`` Er, '' John stammered, `` Well, I just variety 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 mind and I thought I 'd make an egg- ''

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

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

`` Because eggs- ''

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

`` Explode in microwaves, '' Matt finished.

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

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

Albus stood behind Matt and looked into the microwave. The interior was covered in egg yolk, white, and shell. It was a fill out mess, yet kind of funny remark at the Same time.

Matt groaned, `` I ca n't think you did that. Well, ok, I can. I told you not to touch the microwave. ``

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

`` Clean what up ? ''

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

`` John decided to put an egg in the microwave, '' flatness explained.

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

`` See ? '' privy said, `` I 'm not the solely one ! ``

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

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

`` Gospel According to John and Kaden wanted a snack, '' Matt replied, `` So they made a disgusting combination of mashed potatoes, chocolate cake, and ketchup. They liked it, but Albus and I thought it was noisome. Just the smell of it made me sick. ``

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

`` Ok, Mum, '' Matt replied.

`` You have to include that was rum, Julie, '' Mr. Eckerton laughed.

`` Yes, I do actually incur it funny that you made the Lapp mistake five years ago, and now John did it and he 's a XIII yr old boy, '' Mrs. Eckerton smirked.

`` How was I supposed to do it orchis exploded in the microwave oven ? '' Mr. Eckerton asked as they stared back towards the stairs.

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

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

******

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

`` Let 's microwave random stuff, '' John suggested.

`` No way, '' Matt replied.

Matt 's parents had officially banned them from cooking for the residual of the visit. Albus found this rather funny, especially the looks on John and Kaden 's faces when they were told they could n't cook. The two of them spent a good twenty moment trying to find a loophole in the rule.

`` Do wizards wager hide and assay ? '' Kaden asked.

`` That was random, '' Albus commented, `` But yes, wizards do wager hide and search. ``

`` I play it with my full cousin all the time, '' John the Evangelist said.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said. He loved games of hide and seek at the Burrow. There were excellent places to blot out there.

`` We should wager it, '' Kaden announced, `` It 's always boring to act as it at my house because the but one there to play it with is Bethany. And she never hides in good places. ``

`` That 's what Amy said about me when I was piddling, '' Matt said, `` I would always hide in the same spot. ``

`` Ok, let 's play, '' Saint John stood up, `` The couch in here can be home and we can hide out anywhere in the house. ``

`` sound good. But no going outside, '' Matt agreed, `` Who 's it ? ``

`` Albus, '' King John said.

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

Albus closed his eyes and started reckoning. He heard the footsteps 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 perfect billet for hiding because it was conclusion to the dwelling couch. But there were n't very many topographic point to blot out in it.

Albus walked quietly over to the one cupboard that was in the elbow room. He pulled it open and looked inside. Empty. He left the room and looked down the corridor. The bathroom, he thought, that would be a good hiding plaza. Albus himself hid in the bathtub on numerous occasions.

He stepped into the bathroom and sure enough, the exhibitor curtain was pulled shut. Albus yanked it open and saw john laying in the tub.

`` Got you, '' Albus grinned.

`` Merlin, this is always a good pip ! '' John groaned as he got out of the tub.

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

Albus and John left the lavatory and resumed the search. Albus really did n't feel well-situated searching in Matt 's dad 's subject area, so they left it alone. Albus figured no one would hide out in there anyway. They searched the rest of the downstairs, looking in every nook and cranny and closet. But mat and Kaden were no where to be found.

Next they went upstairs and searched all the bedrooms except Matt 's parents'. The depository library and john were searched as well, but still no luck. The plot was reminding Albus of the ones he played at the tunnel. James was always unimaginable to find. Although one clip he got a broom and decided to oscillate above the firm to hide. No one found him for 60 minutes and then the grownup made a 'no flying'rule for fell and seek.

`` Where are they ? '' John said as they searched the library for the second time, `` We 've searched the entire house ! ``

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

`` commodity idea, '' John agreed.

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

can checked the potion brewing elbow room while Albus looked in the master part of the basement that seemed to be a combination storage domain and den. Still nothing. The basement was perfectly tranquilize, too.

`` What about that room ? '' lavatory pointed to a room at the back of the cellar.

`` Matt said it was just storage, '' Albus replied, `` I doubt either of them are in there. Plus, it 's so quiet. We 'd get a line some kind of motility. No one 's down here. ``

`` Then where are they ? '' John Lackland asked.

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

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

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

`` I was in that closet, '' lustrelessness pointed to the press 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 door in there that leads to a smaller closet, '' flatness got up off the couch and walked over to the closet. `` flavour, '' he opened the door.

matte pulled back a few coat that were hanging up and Albus noticed a very flyspeck room access in the bulwark. lustrelessness opened it and revealed a tiny press that was just big enough for a belittled person to climb into.

`` See ? '' lustrelessness grinned.

`` You had an unfair reward, '' John said, `` You know pig out about this house that we do n't. ``

`` Well, when we play at your house, then you 'll have an vantage. ``

`` My sign does n't possess any little mystical closet, '' John muttered.

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

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

`` Nope, '' Albus replied. He never would have thought that Kaden would be this in force at hide and seek.

`` We 'd better go chance him, '' John said.

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

`` No idea, '' mat said, `` But with Kaden, it could be anything. ``

The boys searched the intact home twice, but they still could n't find Kaden. He was the ultimate hide and seek participant, Albus thought. He could even break King James I lessons.

`` Where the ruddy netherworld is he ? '' John shouted as they walked down the stairs.

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

`` He 'll get out once he 's hungry, '' mat pointed out.

`` What are you boys doing ? '' Mrs Eckerton asked. She was sitting on the couch recital a al-Qur'an in the sustenance room.

`` Playing hide and seek, '' lusterlessness replied and sat down on a chair, `` But we ca n't find Kaden. ``

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

`` Outside was off demarcation line, '' John said.

`` We 've searched the family twice just now, '' flatness 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 nerve paled. `` Oh, merlin ! Not the intact cellar ! ``

`` You 'd better go substantiation, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

Matt jumped off the couch and ran towards the basement door. Albus shrugged at John as they followed. He did n't feature a cue as to why Matt was so flighty about Kaden concealing in the basement. Plus, Albus and St. John checked the basement. Except that entrepot room. But why would that make Matt nervous ? What was in it ?

Albus ran down the stairs and followed Matt. Sure enough, Matt went straight to the storage room.

`` Merlin ! '' Matt muttered and paused in presence of the door, `` Why did he obliterate in here ? ``

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

mat sighed, but did n't answer. He put his hired man on the doorhandle 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 windows. But the strangest part was that it was padded. The floor and paries were completely covered with what looked like mattresses.

`` Is that ? '' can asked, `` A tramp room ? ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden, who was running around and literally bouncing off the walls, ran over to them, `` hold you long enough ! Matt, why did n't you secernate us you had a embroider room in your house ? This is brilliant ! ``

Albus did n't think that Matt thought it was so splendid. He was staring at Kaden and was as Patrick White as he had been when his mum suggested they search the basement.

`` Bloody infernal region, this is brilliant ! '' john grinned and walked into the room.

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

flatness turned and left without waiting to see if the others would conform to. Albus followed immediately and he heard John the Divine 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, '' lustrelessness muttered.

`` Was he- ''

`` Yeah, '' matte said without stopping.

Albus followed him all the way upstairs and into his bedroom. Matt flopped down on his bed and stared up at the cap. Albus sat down on the floor and John the Divine 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 have a go at it that it was usually advantageously to let Matt tell them what was going on in his own time, though. Kaden 's pestering interrogation certainly were n't going to help.

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

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

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

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

`` I do n't have sex if you guessed what that way is for, '' Matt began, `` But I guess I 'll secernate you. ``

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

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

Albus nodded. That 's what he had guessed. Judging by the calm look on John 's boldness, he had guessed it too. Kaden on the other handwriting, was gaping at Matt.

`` postponement, what ? '' he asked.

`` That 's where I go during full lunar month, '' flatness said.

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

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

Matt laid back down on his bed and stared at the ceiling. `` Back when I was five and I went through my first transformation, I spent the whole night ramming into the paries trying to get out. My dad put the padding on the bulwark before the adjacent full phase of the moon Moon. Then when we moved here, my dad recreated the Same way in the cellar of this house. ``

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

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

matt sighed, `` It 's ok. I should have told you not to veil there. ``

`` What about the screaming shanty ? '' Kaden asked, `` Is that padded ? ``

`` No, '' Matt replied, `` But it 's crowing, so I do n't have it away my head as lots. ``

Kaden nodded. `` wellspring, I ca n't say I 've ever seen a cushiony way in anyone else 's mansion. ``

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


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


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The remainder of the visit at matte 's household went by very fast for Albus. Albus and the early male child spent the next few years playing diverse games and doing some of the preparation they had put off until the last minute. Amy visited for dinner one evening 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 beer maker he 'd met besides Slughorn. Albus, Matt, and John did not enter in the brewing since all three of them got enough of potions at Hogwarts.

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

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

`` Yeah, '' matte answered.

Mrs. Eckerton opened the door and Albus followed everyone outside. They walked a few measure away from the house and then Mrs. Eckerton put an arm around Matt and the other around Albus. Amy did the same with Gospel According to John and Kaden and all six of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the middle of the Leaky cauldron, which was practically abandon. Albus was n't surprised since it was early afternoon on a weekday. Albus looked around the pub and saw his mum, Uncle Ron, James, Rose, Victor-Marie Hugo, and Lily sitting at a nearby table. John the Evangelist 's mum and sisters were sitting with them. James looked bored out of his head and a slight harassed as John 's sisters ran around the room.

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

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

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

`` We know, Ashtyn, '' St. John the Apostle groaned, `` You 've been telling me about it since I got dwelling house from shoal. ``

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

`` Am not, '' Hugo retorted.

`` There 's nothing incorrect with Hufflepuff, '' John the Divine said, `` My cousin is in Hufflepuff. ``

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

`` Er, right field, '' Albus agreed.

`` Kids ! '' Ginny shouted, `` We 're going to go to flourish and Blotts first, then ma'am Malkins. Al, you need new robe. ``

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

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

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

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

Lily pouted and folded her limb across her chest, but followed Ginny out of the pub. Albus and his friends followed the adults, James, and the girls out of the pub and into Diagon Alley.

Diagon Alley was a bit more crowd than the Leaky caldron, but still rather deserted. Albus walked with the large group into Flourish and Blotts, where the salesman took one aspect at them and ran into the dorsum room. He returned with a saleslady.

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

`` And I have two, '' Ron rummaged around in his robes and pulled out two unironed pieces 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 minute of arc, we 'll get them for you, '' the salesman took the tilt and gave half the stack to the saleslady.

`` So, what did you lot do at Matt 's mansion ? '' pink wine asked as they were waiting.

Albus looked at John and burst out laughing. `` John had fun with the microwave, '' Albus smirked.

Rose groaned. `` What did you do ? ``

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

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

`` She just made him houseclean it up. My dad did the same thing after we moved here. We did n't have a microwave oven in Australia, '' matte said.

`` Muggle studies ought to be mandatory, '' Rose sighed.

Albus spent a few Thomas More minutes telling rose wine about what they had done at Matt 's house, although he left out the role about the fill out elbow room. mat could tell blush wine that later if he wanted to.

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

Once everyone had a great deal of books in their weaponry, the group left the book of account storage. They walked down the street until they reached Madam Malkin 's. Luckily, the shop was vacuous, although they 'd have to look a while until everyone was fitted for robes.

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

Albus sat down on a hot seat as he waited for his act. mat and whoremonger sat down on either incline of him. Albus glanced over and saw that Matt was staring wide eyed at his mass of Christian Bible. Albus peered down at his own stack of books, but the one on top was Intermediate Transfiguration.

Albus looked over at mat 's stack of books and he gaped when he saw which al-Qur'an was on top. It was the exact same Scripture that Kaden had found at Flourish and Blotts a year ago. The one entitled nighttime Creatures : How to Protect Yourself.

`` Interesting book choice, '' Albus muttered.

Matt looked up at Albus. `` This does n't bode well for the new defending team teacher. ``

Albus shrugged. `` Well, tierce year defense does focus on dark creatures. ``

`` It does ? '' lustrelessness 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 category. The only one in our twelvemonth who would 've put the clues together after learning it in class is blush wine, and she already knows. ``

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

A half hour later, everyone had new robes who needed them and the turgid group 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 hold back to start trying out wands.

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

After a visit to the pharmacist, Eyelops, and Weasley 's ace Wheezes, everyone had what they needed for the forthcoming school class. Albus was rather tired by the clock time they finished, but Lily, Victor-Marie Hugo, and Ashtyn seemed to have endless energy. They kind of prompt Albus of the way Kaden had been the old year. Granted, Kaden still had endless energy, but the three eleven-year-olds had surpassed him.

Albus said goodbye to his friends in the Leaky caldron and then Flooed back to Grimmauld post with his mum, Kaden, St. James, and Lily. He and Kaden watched Lily try to perform patch with her new scepter while they waited for Dudley to beak Kaden up. Lily was kind of thwarted that she was unable to do much of anything besides 'Lumos'.

******

In an attempt to try and avoid nearly missing the string like they had the previous yr, Ginny insisted that Albus, James I, and Lily pack their trunks the night before. Despite this, Albus awoke to the vociferation 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 stride of his female parent in the corridor. `` Epistle of James Canicula ceramicist ! Get out of bed this instant ! ``

The doorway to his bedchamber 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 gravel tone, `` Now get out so I can get dressed ! ``

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

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

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

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

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

`` Saint James the Apostle Canicula potter ! '' Ginny shouted from upstairs, `` I told you to throng that utmost dark ! hurriedness up ! ``

`` Daddy, why ca n't you learn Defense this class ? '' Lily asked.

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

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

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

`` Is he nice ? '' Albus asked.

`` Well, he 's, '' Harry paused, `` He 's fair. That 's a skillful way of putting it. He 'll treat everyone the Saame. ``

At least he did n't sound like Washburn, Albus thought. But on the former script, he did n't sound like Neville or Cedonia either.

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

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

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

That certainly spiked Albus 's oddity. What could be going on that would make Hogwarts more exciting than usual ?

`` Come on, '' Albus replied, `` Ca n't you give us a hint ? ``

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

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

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

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

`` Please, Dad ? '' James whined.

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

The ceramist arrived on weapons platform 9 3/4 with fifteen minutes to dispense with, which was actually before than they had arrived the premature year. They met Kaden and his category as well as rosebush, Hugo and their parents. Harry and Ron loaded all the trunk onto the train and then returned to say goodbye.

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

`` Be unspoiled, Albus, '' Ginny smiled, `` And carry caution of Lily. ``

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

Once everyone had said goodbye, Albus headed to the geartrain with Rose and Kaden. James immediately left to find his friends, and Lily and Hugo followed Albus and rosebush. 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 detect the one that his Friend were in. He eventually found them halfway down the train 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 following to John and rosiness sat next to Amanda. Hugo and Lily sat down near Ashtyn and the three of them immediately started talking about the Sorting and the Hogwarts home. Albus, who had been listening to Lily talk about that all summer, did not want to participate in that conversation.

He turned to Matt. `` speculation what ? ``

`` What ? '' Matt asked.

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

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

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

`` Any musical theme what it is ? '' matt asked.

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

`` Just that it was something exciting, '' Rose sighed, `` The alone affair I can think of is the Triwizard Tournament. ``

`` The what ? '' flatness, Amanda, and Kaden asked at the same time.

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

Albus nodded. `` The Triwizard tourney is a contest that involves three wizarding schools : Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. A champion from each school participates in three magical tasks and whichever champion wins gets the Triwizard Cup.

`` The last time they had it was in my dad 's fourth year and a decease Eater tricked the cup into choosing my dad as a fourthly virtuoso. He won, but the former Hogwarts champion, Cedric Diggory, died during the final project. ``

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

`` No, '' pink wine shook her head, `` There 's no way they 'd do that again. At least not for twelvemonth. Cedric 's death is too fresh in a lot of multitude 's minds to have that tournament again. So I have no melodic theme what my dad and Uncle Harry were talking about. ``

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

`` Me, too, '' Kaden grinned, `` That would be superb. ``

`` Not me, '' Albus shook his head teacher. He hated being in the limelight. `` I bet James would do it, though. ``

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

`` Me, either, '' Amanda agreed, `` What about you, Rose ? ``

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

`` I bet Empire State of the South would put down, '' Albus commented.

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

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

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

`` All my dad said was that he was middling, '' Albus sighed, `` He kind of dodged the question when I asked if he was overnice. ``

`` That 's a bad sign, '' Matt groaned.

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

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

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

`` Well, '' Saint John began, `` If he 's imply to you, we can try and get him sacked before he starts the you-know-what social unit. That building block '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 call back of something. ``

`` That, '' Rose sighed, `` Has got to be the dim musical theme you 've come up with. And that includes microwaving the egg. ''

`` well, have you got any better estimate ? '' St. John the Apostle asked.

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

The rest of the train ride passed quickly. The entire compartment participated in an Exploding Snap competition, which rose won. Then they bought a large amount of snacks from the trolley. Albus fell asleep shortly after he finished eating and the next thing he knew, rosebush was nudging him awake and telling him to change into his robes.

The sky had turned dark and the weather stormy while Albus had been sleeping. nose drops sounded and lightning flashed as he pulled on his gown. He was very gladiolus he was n't going to be crossing the Black Lake like Lily was. He 'd much rather take a thestral-pulled perambulator and stay dry.

The caravan pulled into Hogsmeade post and Albus joined the throng of students heading out into the rainy weather condition. He heard Hagrid calling the first years and said goodbye to Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn. Albus found an empty-bellied carriage and led his acquaintance inside.

`` The beginning class are going to get soaked, '' whoremonger said as he wrung out his hat onto the backside of the carriage.

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

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

rosebush rolled her eyes. `` The Squid is not going to tack one of the boat. ``

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

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

`` That 's bright ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` Wish 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 have got been pleasant. ``

The difference of the misstep up to the castle was spent discussing the likeliness of one of the gravy holder being tipped over by the colossus calamary. John and Kaden decided that they wanted to find the Giant Squid that year and agreed to take a swim in the Joseph Black Lake during the first available weekend.

The entire Entrance student residence was covered in water by the clip Albus and his supporter entered the castle. Albus was sure enough Filch would have a hippogriff when he saw it. Albus led his protagonist to the familiar Gryffindor mesa and sat down, eager for the feast to start.

Albus scanned the faculty table and his eyes rested on the only unfamiliar side. A stern looking man with his black fuzz cut in a Muggle armed services dash was sitting completely still. His optic seemed to penetrate every student in the entire room at the Same time. Albus did not get the sensory faculty that this teacher would be overnice, although he lacked the hate that Washburn had emanated.

`` That must be the new defense reaction teacher, '' matte whispered to Albus, `` Falco columbarius, he does not search happy. ``

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

`` I would n't desire to be on his bad face, '' Albus replied.

`` feeling to me like he had a bit too much U-No-Poo, '' King John laughed.

Albus snorted and shook his head. It did kind of look like the professor had a bit too much of that sure Weasley product. His Uncle Percy wore that same facial expression when his Uncle George VI 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 mesa. They congregated near the three-legged stool upon which the categorization Hat sat.

`` They look forgetful than finally year 's first of all geezerhood, '' St. John whispered as the categorization Hat began singing.

`` They are, '' Kaden agreed, `` I was n't that short last year. ``

`` Yeah, you actually were, '' St. John the Apostle replied, `` Hey, mat, I think these first years might actually be shorter than you. A few of them, that is. ``

matt rolled his oculus. `` At least I 'm not a giraffe like you. ``

`` Hey, peak has its benefit, '' Saint John the Apostle retorted.

`` And so does lack of height, '' Matt pointed out, `` At to the lowest degree I did n't accept to stomach still while Madam 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 next starting time year became a Slytherin and the succeeding was another Ravenclaw.

`` Brickston, Ashtyn ! '' Patil announced.

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

`` Congratulations, Ashtyn ! '' John grinned, `` Gryffindor really is the skillful star sign. ``

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

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

Albus did n't really pay attention to the future few Sortings. He vaguely recognized a few gens, but did n't really cognise any of them. He snapped back into reality when he heard Patil announce, `` ceramicist, Lily ! ``

Lily ran forward with almost as much excitement as Ashtyn. The hat took a little more sentence to resolve than it had with Ashtyn, but it soon shouted, `` Gryffindor ! ``

The Gryffindor table erupted with cheers as Lily ran towards it. Albus clapped her on the rear, as did James and all their cousins, and Lily took a keister next to Ashtyn.

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

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

`` Gryffindor ! '' the hat announced a minute 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.

Professor Kendrick stood up. `` Welcome, scholarly person and stave ! As common, I will save all the language making for after the feast. '' He waved his wand and sat back down.

Food appeared on all the golden plates and Albus helped himself to some of everything. He was hungry, although this year he had kind of cherished Kendrick to announce what the wind up thing was before the feast.

The theme of discussion varied greatly during the spread, and Albus mostly listened. John and lustrelessness had a heated line of reasoning about the Quidditch time of year, primarily the Chudley cannon'spectacular loss to the Holyhead Harpies that had taken position a few daytime previously. Rose chattered non-stop about the new classes she was taking and bombarded her older cousin with questions about them. Albus was amazed she had any query left, since she had done the same affair during the Weasley phratry Dinner prior to the jump of term.

Kaden talked to whoever would listen about the prospect of adding Muggle technology to Hogwarts. Albus groaned to himself as he heard Kaden tell one of the first years about his petition to give birth televisions put into the common rooms. Amanda listened to Kaden, although it did n't seem like she was nearly as turn on as Kaden was.

`` So, how was the trip-up across the lake ? '' John asked Ashtyn as the sweet appeared.

`` Wet, '' Ashtyn replied.

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

`` No, '' Ashtyn laughed.

`` Hagrid said he had anti-tipping charms put on them after St. James tipped his a few years ago, '' Hugo announced.

`` That 's no fun, '' King John sighed.

A little while later, the golden plate became uninfected once again and Albus looked eagerly up at the staff table.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and thanks as well to all the awesome readers and reader !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


prof Kendrick rose to his feet. `` May I have your attention ! '' he shouted and the way quieted down, `` Thank you. Now, I have a few rather boring promulgation, two somewhat agitate unity, and one really exciting one. I shall start with the boring ones.

`` As common, the forest and Whomping Willow are out of bounce to everyone. If you wish to try-out for your house 's Quidditch squad, give your name to your pass of house. The Dueling Club and Jnr 's Dueling golf club will be starting up again and once meetings have been set up, I shall let you know.

`` As for the somewhat exciting promulgation, we have a new DoD Against the Dark Arts teacher. Please welcome Professor Balladanis. ``

The stern looking professor stood up for a few mo and received mediocre clapping. He resumed his tooshie and Professor Kendrick turned back to the students.

`` The other somewhat occupy annunciation is that Hogwarts will be patrolled by Aurors a few years a calendar week. After conclusion twelvemonth 's incident, the Ministry has deemed this a necessary precaution to take. The Aurors are positivist that Jarrett Willinson and Jameson Washburn will try to yield to Hogwarts at some power point this year. I do not secernate you this to scare you, but to make you aware of the situation. If anyone sees any suspicious conduct or has any data regarding the whereabouts of either fugitive from justice, please tell a teacher. ``

The entire Gryffindor mesa turned to Albus and his friends at this announcement. Albus felt his side turn red and he stared down at his crustal plate. He really hated all the care he got from what happened the previous two years.

`` And now, '' Kendrick continued, `` I have a very exciting proclamation to prepare. ``

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

`` First, I would like you all to commend the inter-house dueling from finale year. ``

The entire hall groaned and people started whispering amongst themselves.

`` Quiet down, '' Kendrick said, `` There was a cause why I enacted that close year. More than just school oneness, that is. I wanted the school to become more united because of an event that is taking billet this class. An upshot that will put us into contention with early magical schools- ''

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

`` No, '' Kendrick replied, `` This is not the Triwzard tourney. It is a different contention that will involve more than just one student from each school day.

`` Tomorrow evening, shortly before dinner, a blue-ribbon group of scholar from the Adirondack academy of Magic, which is in New York Department of State, and the Australian School of Sorcery will travel to Hogwarts, where they will populate and attend classes for the duration of the year. ``

Albus turned to look at matte, who was gaping at Kendrick.

`` The scholar from both schooltime will be Sorted into the four Hogwarts houses during a exceptional categorization ceremony tomorrow evening. They will live in whichever family they are Sorted into and advert form with those in their yr. I expect you all to treat them like they are fellow Hogwarts students.

`` However, you will also be competing against them. There are two events. The first-class honours degree is Qudditch. Each of the schools has created a Quidditch team comprised of the best Quidditch players in their respective schoolhouse. We will be doing the Saame thing here. The three teams will spiel each other throughout the class and whichever team wins shall invite the Quidditch Cup for Schools.

`` The former event will be dueling. Each of the school has also put together a team of the best dueller in their several school. Again, we shall do the same. The tournaments will work much like the Dueling Club works here. ``

The entire school started talking at once. Albus thought the all matter was brilliant. It was like the Triwizard tourney, only less dangerous. Maybe he could even take part. He was a decent Chaser and dueler.

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

`` I will ! '' Albus grinned, `` As long as they do n't have an age terminus ad quem or anything. ``

`` I do n't think they will, '' Rose said, `` Quidditch is n't that dangerous. ``

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

`` Maybe I can duel, '' Kaden said, `` I 'm a indorsement class now. ``

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

`` Yeah, '' Amanda agreed.

`` Quiet ! '' Kendrick shouted over the yak and everyone settled down, `` The Hogwarts Quidditch team is open to anyone who is currently on a House Quidditch squad. I 'm sorry if that upsets some of you, but it would be impossible to hold try-outs for the entire shoal, and I think it would be amend if our squad were comprised of those who have experience on a Quidditch squad. If you have interest in trying out, delight recite your head of menage.

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

`` shit, '' Kaden muttered.

`` If you want to try out, commit your name to your head of menage. Try-outs for both teams will most likely be side by side weekend. I believe that is all I have to say for now. beginning long time, please espouse a prefect to your coarse room. Good night, everyone. ``

Albus got up from the table and walked to Gryffindor tugboat with his Friend. They talked about the competition the integral time. Albus was incredibly excited about the prospect of playing for the Hogwarts Quidditch team, and a little skittish at the same time. Of course, his hazard of getting picked were kind of slim. He was the youthful chaser eligible to try out.

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

`` Of course of instruction ! '' Albus grinned, `` You ? ``

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

`` You wo n't be, '' Rose said, `` The hale peak is to give a Hogwarts squad, not a Gryffindor squad. ``

`` Albus and James will get picked, '' Kaden said adamantly, `` You two are both great Quidditch role player. ``

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

`` Does n't matter, '' King John assured him, `` They 'll be searching for skill, not age. ``

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

`` Probably professor Oteski, '' James IV said, `` And maybe the heads of houses will help. ``

Albus and his booster talked about the Quidditch competition for another few proceedings before retiring to their dormitories for the nighttime. Albus climbed into his familiar four-poster bed, but found that he was too excited to sleep. 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 scholar at Hogwarts. He had n't really met many strange enchantress and star before, not including his Aunt Fleur 's family. Matt and Amy and their parents were the faithful he 'd come, and they 'd been living in England for a patch. lusterlessness did n't seem very shake up about the whole affair, though. In fact, he had remained rather hush ever since Kendrick made the announcement.

******

It was loose to feel the excitement at Hogwarts the next day. Since it was Sun, classes were n't starting yet. Most people slept late, and the main matter of conversation in the Great Hall at lunch period was the contender and the pupil from Australia and New York.

GA organized a spur of the instant Quidditch exercise for the Gryffindor squad in ordering to set up for the Hogwarts team try-outs. Albus and the quietus of the squad practiced for at least two hours that afternoon.

`` You 're a walkaway, James, '' Albus told his blood brother as the two of them began to walk off the rake, `` Everyone knows you 're the ripe Seeker in the school. ``

`` wellspring, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw are the only other houses that are keeping their Seekers from finish yr, '' James pointed out, `` So I 'll only be competing against Lisa Galivant and Miranda Corner. ``

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

`` Yeah, but you 're a salutary Chaser, '' James IV assured him.

Albus nodded and shouldered his Calluna vulgaris. He was already nervous about the try-out, and it was almost a workweek away. What if he was so nervous during the try-out that he completely messed up ? He 'd just have got to be sure to calm down by then. Albus sighed and continued walking off the slant. Just as he was getting close to the stands, he noticed somebody sitting alone in the lower tier. It was Matt.

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

lusterlessness had hardly said a word the entire day. He was normally quiesce, but it was never a good sign when he was completely silent. Albus knew dependable than to ask why, but he was still curious. He had a feeling it had to do with the Aboriginal Australian students.

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

`` Hi, '' lusterlessness mumbled.

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

`` rose is in the depository library researching about the wizard schooling in Australia and New House of York, '' matt explained, `` Amanda is with her. ``

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

`` No, '' Matt gave a tepid laughter, `` 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 retch of it, so I came out here. ``

Albus nodded. lustrelessness was going to have a strong time finding someplace in the schooltime where no one was talking about the competitions.

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

Matt sighed. `` I, '' he paused, `` I 'm just not that excited about the competitor thing. Well, it 's not that, it 's the fact that we 're doing it with Commonwealth of Australia. ``

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

`` I was supposed to go to the Aboriginal Australian schooltime of black art, '' 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 vicious 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 count at matte. He looked quite upset about the whole thing. Albus had no approximation what to say.

`` I do n't want the headmaster to come in here, '' mat said quietly, `` I know that 's stupid, really. I mean, he 's never met me. And we moved five years ago. He probably would n't even recognize my conclusion name. ``

`` It 's not stupid, '' Albus assured him. Albus could n't really imagine what this was like for lustrelessness, though. He supposed the only affair close would be if Washburn came back to teach or something. `` But I do n't think you 'll really come into tangency with their headmaster much. You ca n't try out for the Quidditch team or the Dueling team, so I do n't reckon you 'll do much more than than pass him in the corridor. ``

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

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` But I do n't think anything will pass. This is Kendrick 's schooltime. Even if the Australian schoolmaster is here, he ca n't really do anything. He 's got no controller 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 John the Divine and Kaden. I 'm for sure we can convince them not to talk about the contender. We could ask them how their plans for swimming in the Black person Lake are coming. ``

mat 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 subroutine library. ``

The rest of the afternoon went by very quickly. Shortly before dinner, Albus and his acquaintance made their way into the Great G. Stanley Hall. The entire room was buzzing with excitement. Albus noticed that nearly all of the prof were wearing dress gown. The only one who was n't was prof Balladanis, who as wearing the same black gown as the previous day.

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

`` I heard that the Australian schoolhouse of black magic is underground ! '' Hugo shouted excitedly.

Matt snorted. `` It 's not. ``

`` Oh, maybe it was the Adirondack Academy of conjuration, '' Hugo replied.

`` That one 's not underground either, '' matte laughed.

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

`` My babe used to go to the Australian School of Sorcery, '' matte explained, `` And my uncle lives in New York. I 've seen that schoolhouse, too. ``

`` well, that 's tire, '' Hugo muttered, `` Would have been adept if one of them was tube. ``

`` Hey, Hugo, '' Kaden grinned, `` judge what the initials of Aussie schooling of Sorcery are ? ``

`` A, S, S, '' Hugo shrugged and then a big grin appeared on his case, `` Ass ! That 's brilliant ! ``

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

No Sooner had Kendrick finished his conviction, the great unwashed began to whisper and plough their read/write head towards the room access. Albus craned his head up and saw a magniloquent man striding into the Great Hall. He was wearing navy blasphemous robes and had a rather large amount of messy Zane Grey hair on his brain. Behind him were a dozen or so student wearing monovular blue robes. to the highest degree of the students looked to be a few years old than Albus. They all stared around at the Great Hall, a pair of them pointing excitedly at the roof.

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

`` Let me introduce professor Marvin Roberts, headmaster of the Adirondack honorary society of magic, and his students, '' Kendrick announced, `` Welcome to Hogwarts. ``

Albus and the rest of the Hogwarts student body burst into hand clapping. Once it died down, Kendrick opened his rima oris again.

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

Albus turned back towards the door and saw another man entering the room. He wore emerald green robes and was completely denuded. He made up for the lack of fuzz on his head by sporting a pointy mustache and goatee. He was n't nearly as marvellous as Roberts, but not forgetful either. He walked purposefully towards the staff table with his grouping of pupil clad in matching emerald green gown following him.

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

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

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

`` Thank you, '' Kendrick said once the applause stopped, `` Now, we shall possess a special Sorting ceremony in club to find out which menage you belong in. The four houses are Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, and Slytherin. While you are here at Hogwarts, you will live in your house dormitory, spend rid clip in your house common rooms, and attend classes with the other students in your house. ``

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

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged. rosiness had a level, though.

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

professor Patil stood up and walked around to the other side of the staff table. She was holding the three-legged stool and the categorisation Hat. She set the hat down on the stool and it burst into song.

There were brassy gasp from all of the scholar from the early two schools. A few of the Hogwarts scholarly person 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 stool and put on the hat. It will tell you which house you 're in and then you can go sit at the appropriate table, '' Patil said after the hat stopped singing. `` Allen, Ugo Buoncompagni. ``

A tall and lanky boy with messy brown tomentum stepped away from the group and sat down on the stool. He was wearing US Navy blue robes, so he must hold been from New York.

`` Slytherin ! '' the hat shouted. Gregory Nazianzen Gracie took the hat off and went to join the Slytherin table.

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

`` I think that bloke is going to have to lose the green robes, '' John commented as one of the Australian students was Sorted into Gryffindor, `` It 's just not pattern to wear thin green gown when you 're a Gryffindor. ``

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

`` Do they even have houses at the Aboriginal Australian School of black magic ? '' John wondered aloud, `` I mean, all their robes look alike. ``

`` They do, '' flatness told him, `` But those are the patent school robe. ``

`` I 'm guessing they wanted to expect unified, '' Rose suggested, `` I doubt Albus will wear Gryffindor Quidditch robe when he plays on the mansion team. They 'll probably have special Hogwarts robes. ``

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

`` morale, Linda, '' Patil shouted.

Albus turned back to the Sorting and saw a rather dead lady friend pace forward. Albus watched as she walked towards the three-legged stool and he could n't hire his eyes off her. She was beautiful. There was n't really any other way to describe her. Albus had n't ever seen a girlfriend as pretty as she was. Her drab Brown hair cascaded down her back in soft waves. It did n't quite match her surprisingly picket peel, but it was beautiful nonetheless. Her sluttish skin went well with her emerald Green River robe. She looked a bit nervous as she sat down and Patil dropped the hat on her head.

Albus turned to look at his friends. lusterlessness, trick, and Kaden were all staring at the girl. So was St. James the Apostle. In fact, all the boys at the Gryffindor table seemed to be staring at her. The missy were whispering to each other and glancing up at Linda Morales every so often.

The hat seemed to be taking constantly to resolve. The integral Great Hall had erupted in whispering. Finally, the brim of the hat fusillade overt and shouted out, `` Gryffindor ! ``

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

`` Bloody hell on earth, '' bathroom whispered as she took a posterior a few places down from Albus.

Albus nodded and turned to count at the girl. She looked, if potential, even more spooky now that she was sitting down.

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

Albus shook his principal to clear his cerebration and tried to turn his attention back to the Sorting. A little while later, the last scholarly person was Sorted into Hufflepuff and Patil and the former headmaster took behind behind the staff table.

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

None of the new scholar had sat near Albus and his friends, so they did n't get a prospect to really get to know any of them. almost of them were older anyway. Albus 's full cousin struck up conversations with a few of them, though. Albus did poster 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 plates cleaned themselves of dessert, `` I have just a few annunciation. The new students need to study note of the fact that the forest and the Whomping Willow are out of edge. There is also a rather large listing of forbidden objects. The full list can be viewed on the caretaker 's door, which is located on this level. Or, you can ask your fellow pupil. Anyone with the finale name of Weasley has a particularly extensive knowledge on the subject. ``

There was a heavy measure of laughter at this, mostly from the Gryffindor table.

`` Also, try-outs for the Hogwarts Quidditch team will be held this Sabbatum at one in the 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 social class start tomorrow. ``

When Albus and his ally returned to the Gryffindor common room, Linda Morales was already there, surrounded by a rather large group of boys and a span girls. She did n't appear to be enjoying it, though. She looked as spooky 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 result her alone, '' rose wine went on, `` It does n't look like she wants all that aid. I 'll bet she 's overwhelmed by everything. ``

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

`` Dunno, '' rosiness shrugged, `` She looks our age, but older at the same time. It 's kind of odd. ``

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

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

`` He 's been hushed all evening, '' John commented as lusterlessness left.

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

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

Albus and his ally stayed up for a few more arcminute before turning in for the night. Albus laid awake for a while, though, thinking about Linda Morales.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awe-inspiring people who have read and reviewed this !


Dislcaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


As it turned out, Albus did n't have to look until classes to know if Linda morale was his age or not. Rose and Amanda burst out of the girlfriend'dormitory as Albus, Matt, and bathroom were heading down to breakfast.

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

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

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

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

`` Girls, '' John muttered, `` I 'll never sympathise them. ``

The radical hurried down to the Great Hall and ate a quick breakfast before their first year. Neville handed out schedules and Albus saw that he had precaution 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.

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

`` With our fate, 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 tense fourth dimension to do that ! '' 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 friend as everyone waited for Hagrid to appear.

`` 'Ello, everyone ! '' Hagrid said as he stepped out of his hut a few minute later, `` Welcome to Care o'Magical Creatures. ``

`` Hi, Hagrid, '' Albus grinned.

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

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

`` nobody ? '' Hagrid said, `` Well, I know they are n't the most excitin'creatures, but we 've got to start somewhere. Now, flobberworms are small Patrick Victor Martindale White worms .... ''

Albus listened as Hagrid explained about flobberworms, but he did n't take in any tone. rose wine would receive, but Albus did n't see the point. Flobberworms were pretty basic.

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

Albus and his friends each took a worm and began the dull task of recording the worms'every movement and sketching them. Albus thought the rest of the class was rather boring and was a bit discomfited. He had kind of been expecting Hagrid to bring in some kind of unsafe creature, like he had when his dad was at Hogwarts. Although, come to think of it, his cousins had said Hagrid had adopted a more normal curriculum.

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

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

The metamorphosis schoolroom was already filling up by the time Albus and his friends entered. Albus noticed that they had this class with the Hufflepuffs. Rose was already inside, sitting at her usual board in the nominal head. Amanda quickly joined her. Linda was there as well, but she was sitting by herself at the other front desk.

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

`` Sure, '' Albus grinned and started to take the air towards her table.

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

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

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

`` For the maiden few classes we shall be learning about a very difficult branch of Transfiguration of Jesus, '' Patil said after she took attendance, `` And it is called the Animagus Transfiguration of Jesus. Can anyone secernate me what that is ? ``

Albus smirked as Rose 's hand barb into the air. Albus knew the response, of course, but he was perfectly well-chosen to let Rose answer.

`` Yes, fille Morales ? '' Patil pointed to Linda.

Albus turned away from rose wine and saw that Linda had half-way raised her hand. The balance of the class was staring at her as well, probably because rosebush always answered the preliminary questions in class.

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

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

Albus noticed that Rose was staring in daze at Linda. He had to repress a laugh at this.

Patil went on to describe Animagi in more than particular and Albus took a few notes.

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

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

`` Minerva McGonagall, '' Rose answered.

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

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

`` Rita Skeeter, '' Rose grinned.

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

The remainder of the grade passed by at a reasonably quick step and once it was over, Albus and his friends went to the Great Hall for lunch.

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

`` Shut up, '' Rose muttered.

`` She might beat you on the next tryout, '' John laughed.

`` And your full stop is ? '' Rose snapped.

They walked the remainder of the way in silence, as no one wanted to set Rose off even more. Albus had no estimate she would get that competitive about ground level. Although after two geezerhood of easily being the fresh in their year, Rose had n't previously had any competition.

one-half the Gryffindor table was roaring with laughter when they arrived for lunch. William James quickly filled Albus in on the fact that Hugo had exploded his first potion earlier in the morning and was apparently quite proud of it.

`` well, you 'll deliver no contention from him, '' toilet muttered to rose. rosebush sent him a dried-up look and sat down to eat.

Albus spent lunch telling Kaden about Care of Magical Creatures. Despite the fact that they learned about flobberworms, Kaden was jealous.

The 3rd year Gryffindors had two-baser potions after luncheon, with the Slytherins again. Slughorn started the division with a brushup of the former class 's potions. Once again, Rose and Linda both knew the answer to every question. Then, when Slughorn had them brew a new potion, both rosebush and Linda tied for serious potion. Slughorn gave them each a bar of Honeyduke 's chocolate. Albus was quite surprised that Linda seemed as smart as Rose. He had never met anyone his age who could compete with Rose with grades. Saint John was right. uprise did have some competition.

******

`` Well, time to go meet the new Defense teacher, '' Albus said as he finished breakfast the next morning.

`` I wish your dad was still teaching, '' lusterlessness sighed.

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` The new teacher looks like the kind of bloke who gives a lot of homework. ``

`` You really ought to just prevent an undefended judgement, '' rosiness commented as they left the Great Hall.

`` Easy for you to say, '' John muttered, `` You 're capriciously smart. ``

`` You have got to be kidding me ! '' Albus groaned as they reached the classroom, `` We 're with the Slytherins, again ! ``

`` Great, '' lusterlessness sighed, `` Three years in a row, what are the chances of that ? ``

Albus led the way into the schoolroom. Linda team spirit was already seated at one of the presence board. rosebush and Amanda immediately took the early front table.

`` Let 's sit in the back, '' matte muttered.

Albus nodded. He really did n't need to sit near the front. The teacher was already there and was wearing an unclear look. If he turned out to be think, Albus preferred to be as far away as possible.

The classroom looked exactly the same as it had the year before, except for a bole that was sitting in social movement of the instructor 's desk.

A few more student trickled in and once the Vanessa Stephen rang, the teacher waved his baton and the door slammed loudly. Albus jumped in surprisal and snapped his tending back to the new teacher.

He walked slowly from behind his desk and stood in front of it. He was holding a spell of parchment and a quill. Albus noticed that he was wearing the same blackamoor gown, except now he noticed that there were intricately designed ash gray fastenings on them.

`` Please raise your hand and say 'present'when I call your name, '' he said in a stern voice. He ran through the tilt, fixing each student with a piercing regard when he called on them.

`` Brilliant, '' he said flatly, `` All here. I am Professor Balladanis, as you all know from Professor Kendrick 's manner of speaking. You will address me as Professor Balladanis, or prof, or Sir. I will not tolerate speaking out of turn or misbehavior of any form in my classroom. I expect all preparation and other assignments to be completed on time, no excuse. ``

prof Balladanis began to pace back and Forth in forepart of his desk. `` As you shall discover throughout the twelvemonth, I take justificatory magic very seriously. '' He paused and glared sharply at Linda and Janie Creevey, who had sat next to Linda.

`` Defensive conjuring trick is a very very important branch of magic. I would make the argument that is the most important. It can save your life. It has saved my life on legion occasions. I have no incertitude that your previous two years of instruction were very extensive and I am sure you all have a basic cognition of defensive piece courtesy of prof ceramicist. ``

Balladanis stopped pacing and paused before continuing his speech. `` However, the thirdly year Defense Against the darkness Arts curriculum focuses on defense against dreary creatures. '' He turned to Albus 's table and gave Albus, mat, and Saint John a piercing stare.

`` I will be continuing the curriculum that has been used in this school since after the last battle, '' Balladanis continued, `` I have looked over the syllabus and have deemed it satisfactory. I immensely approve of the first day 's lesson for third years. I 've always thought a practical approach was right for defense mechanism, although I do wait you to carefully study your text edition Bible as well.

`` In this box, '' Balladanis gestured to the trunk, which jumped a little as he touched it, `` Lives a boggart. Can anyone tell me what a boggart is ? ``

Rose and Linda 's hands shot up into the air. Balladanis smirked and pointed to Rose. `` Yes, young lady ... ? ``

`` Weasley, sir, '' rosebush replied, `` A boggart is a shape shifter. It takes the course of whatever scares you most. No one knows what one really looks like. ``

Balladanis nodded. `` Correct. 5 stage to Gryffindor. Boggarts, '' he began pacing again, `` make the sort of whatever panic attack us most. The boggart focuses on the nighest person 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 turn at sea about what to turn into. However, that is not enough. There is a necessary incantation for defeating boggarts. It is 'Riddikulus'. repeat after me, 'Riddikulus'. ``

`` Riddikulus, '' Albus said along with everyone else.

`` goodness, '' Balladanis said, although his articulation was n't exactly upbeat, `` You 'll also need to think of a way to turn whatever your most feared thing is into something funny. laugh is what really finishes off a boggart. Then, think of that as you 're saying the conjuration. Now, take out your scepter and stand up. ``

Albus pulled his wand 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 fear ophidian. wanderer ? Nope, not them either. He had no mind 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 classroom. `` Form a line of business, '' he instructed.

Everyone pushed to be at the movement of the line. Albus wound up being towards the back, behind John and in front of Matt.

`` miss Weasley, '' Balladanis motioned for Rose to ill-treat forward, `` Perhaps you could go first. ``

Rose nodded and stepped out of the line. She stood in strawman of the automobile trunk with her wand raised. Albus had no idea what the boggart would turn into for rosebush either. Nor did he have a clue what John and Amanda 's boggarts would be. He had an intimation about matte 's, though.

Balladanis stood off to the side and pointed his wand at the trunk. The lid slowly opened and out stepped ... Neville. Albus gaped at the boggart.

The boggart Neville opened his mouth. `` I 'm lamentable, Rose, you did not get the highest grades in your year. You 've been beaten. ``

Oh, Albus thought, that kind of made sense. For a moment there, Albus actually thought Rose was afraid of Neville, which was ridiculous.

`` Riddikulus ! '' pink wine shouted.

The boggart Neville swayed, but did n't await any unlike. He opened his back talk again. `` rose wine, you have beaten everyone in the entire school day ! You have the secure grad in the history of Hogwarts. ``

Albus smirked. It was n't entirely funny, but it fit roseate perfectly.

`` Interesting, '' Balladanis muttered, `` following ! ``

Rose stood off to the slope and grinned as Amanda stepped forward. Albus watched as the boggart turned into a very large 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 about of the balance of the course, burst out laughing. Amanda stepped to the slope next to Rose and Janie Creevey stepped forward.

Janie 's boggart turned into a giant rat, which then got transformed into bantam mouse. 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 dragon turn into a raging firing. Linda raised her wand and shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The fire turned into a falls and Linda joined the growing mathematical group of scholar off to the side.

Marina Jordan-Bell was future, and her boggart turned into a wanderer, as did her Sister, Karina 's. Karina had a bit of trouble, but eventually managed to turn the spider rainbow colors. Ethan and a couple of the Slytherins had difficulty as well.

Vivien Leigh Montague charmed her mummy boggart into a pass jacket and then it was Saint John the Apostle 's turn of events. He stepped forward and the mummy turned into a clown. A clown, gross with a big red nose and huge shoes.

Albus could hear a few of the other educatee snickering already. Albus was n't exactly a fan of buffoon, but he could think of at to the lowest degree ten matter that were scarier than them.

`` Riddikulus ! '' lavatory shouted. The clown boggart started to walk forward, but it tripped over its ridiculously magnanimous feet, which were growing at an alarming rate. The entire course of study burst out in the meretricious laughter yet as lavatory joined rosiness and Amanda.

Albus took a deep breath and stepped forward. The clown with the huge feet started spinning again and when it stopped, it looked like Professor Oteski. The Oteski boggart stepped towards Albus.

`` You did not make the Hogwarts Quidditch team, '' it said.

Albus gulped. Come to think of it, that was what he was most afraid of at that moment. But how could he make it funny. He racked his Einstein as the Oteski boggart continued walking towards him.

`` Riddikulus ! '' Albus shouted.

The boggart spun around again and then stopped. `` You did wee the team ! '' it said, `` In fact, everyone is on the team ! All of Hogwarts will wreak at once and therefore win the contest ! ``

Albus laughed at the intellection of a Quidditch team consisting of over 200 masses on it and joined John Lackland at the side of the schoolroom. Albus watched as Matt stepped forward.

`` Hey, Potter, '' Scorpius whispered, `` I bet the boggart wo n't know what to turn into with Eckerton. He 's afraid of everything. ``

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus growled.

`` Quiet over there ! '' Balladanis shouted. Albus immediately shut his sassing and Scorpius did n't say anything else.

The boggart was spinning around again and when it stopped, it did n't reverse into the lustrous full lunation that Albus had been expecting. It had turned into a very black looking man. He was tight-fitting and rather short and had a mop of untidy brown hair on his psyche. It was n't like Roberts 's hair, though. This bloke 's hair was stringy and dirty looking. His optic were piercing, not unlike Balladanis 's, and he was sneering at Matt. Albus did n't know who it was. He had n't seen anyone that resembled the boggart.

The boggart stepped slowly towards matt, who looked frozen in shoes. Albus could see his wand shaking in his hired hand.

`` Who 's that bloke ? '' St. John whispered.

`` No mind, '' Albus said.

Albus continued to watch as the boggart advanced towards Matt. Balladanis was n't doing anything besides watching with an unreadable expression on his face.

The boggart was now only a couple groundwork away from Matt, who still was n't doing anything. The boggart began to slowly heighten its hands and muttered something that Albus could n't quite catch.

At that present moment, Matt seemed to unblock. He stepped back and all of a sudden ran towards the doorway. He wrenched it open and disappeared from the room. Everyone who had already faced the boggart started whispering amongst themselves

Albus turned to Saint John, who shrugged. Albus could n't even begin to reckon why mat was afraid of that unusual man, but he could sense that it went beyond a normal concern.

`` I 'm going after him, '' Albus whispered to John. John nodded and Albus ran from the room without asking Balladanis or even looking back at him.

Albus could hear Balladanis trying to quiet down the rest of the bookman down as he walked quickly down the corridor. mat was n't anywhere to be found. Albus continued to take the air down the corridor, not really knowing where he was going. Where would Matt go ? The dormitory ? room of requisite ? Marauder 's Den ? That was it, Albus thought. That 's where mat would go. After all, only a few masses knew about that.

Albus walked through the empty corridors, grateful that nobody else was wandering around. He glanced at his watch. There was only ten minutes left in class.

The fifth floor corridor was also deserted. Albus quickly pulled up the arm on the appropriate causa of armor and then searched the opposite rampart for the tiny paw mark. 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 former twelvemonth. Albus had n't been in it for month. He quietly walked further into the room and headed straight for flatness 's alcove.

lusterlessness was sitting on his four-poster bed, just staring directly at the rampart in nominal head of him. Albus wordlessly sat down on the bed, not sure as shooting of what to say. Matt did n't even notice the fact that Albus was there. Either that or he did n't notice.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked after a few consequence of awkward silence.

Matt looked over at him. He did n't count all right field. His fount was pale bloodless. `` I guess, '' he said quietly, `` But everyone probably thinks I 'm afraid of everything now. Nobody else ran out of the elbow room. ``

`` Maybe everyone else 's boggarts were n't as scary, '' Albus suggested.

`` Maybe, '' Matt muttered.

Albus heard the door open and he craned his head around to see that rosiness, John, and Amanda had come inside. John and the daughter walked over to where Albus and matte were.

`` We 've got your bags, '' John said as he dropped Albus and Matt 's bags on the floor.

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied.

`` Are you all right ? '' John asked Matt.

`` Yeah, '' Matt sighed.

`` What have we got following ? '' Albus asked.

`` Herbology, '' Rose answered, `` And we 'd better go if we do n't require to be late. ``

`` Are you coming ? '' Albus asked lusterlessness.

`` Yeah, '' Matt got up off the bed, `` Let 's go. I just hope we do n't accept it with the Slytherins. I 'd bet my conclusion Galleon that Malfoy 's going to make fun of me for this for rest of the class. ``

Albus would give been willing to bet that as well. Fortunately, the 3rd year Gryffindors had Herbology with the Ravenclaws that year. A few of the other Gryffindors stole agile glances at mat during the beginning component part of the grade, but nobody said anything to him. Neville quizzed them about a few plant they had learned about the late year for a few minutes. blush wine and Linda answered all of them. Then he gave a broad overview of what they 'd be doing that year.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


After lunch, Albus, rose wine, and Matt headed to Ancient Runes while trick and Amanda went to fortune telling. Albus did n't really eff what to expect from ancient Runes, nor did he know anything about the teacher. Matt had told them that Amy said the instructor was nice enough.

Albus, Rose, and matte sat down at one of the tables in the middle of the way and waited for the teacher. Linda esprit de corps was already seated at one of the battlefront tables. Albus wondered how she always seemed to be the first to arrive to any class. There was also an assortment of Hufflepuffs in the way. Albus, Rose, Matt, and Linda appeared to be the exclusively Gryffindors taking the division, though.

The professor walked in a few instant later. She was a short fair sex with curly grey hair and a affected role look on her face.

`` Hello, '' she smiled, `` I 'm prof Sturly. ``

She took attendance and then gave a lengthy public lecture about what the study of Ancient runic letter was. Albus form of thought she could have condensed it and he found himself zoning out about halfway through. Rose was paying rhapsodic tending and Albus had a impression this would become one of her dearie classes.

Towards the end of the category, Sturly gave an overview of the first chapter in their book and then assigned the remainder of the chapter for prep. The chapter covered a variety of introductory runes that Albus and the rest of the scholarly person would have to memorize.

magical spell consisted of blush wine and Linda alternatively answering every question Cedonia threw at them. Albus had a feeling it would get a regular occurrent in all the classes he had with both rose wine and Linda.

`` How was Divination ? '' Albus asked his Quaker after dinner as they were sitting around the piranha 's Den.

`` Entertaining, '' Gospel According to John laughed, `` I think it 'll be my easiest division. ``

`` So, who did Trelawney say would die this year ? '' Rose asked.

`` What ? ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` Someone 's going to die ? ``

`` No, '' pink wine sighed, `` Trelawney just predicts someone 's expiry every year. The student in question has never actually died during that year. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden shrugged, `` So she 's not a real psychic ? ``

`` You mean a Seer ? '' rose wine asked, `` Well, she has made a few existent predictions. She 's the one who spoke the prophecy about Albus 's dad. But can she really predict the future with crystal nut and such ? I doubt it. I really doubt anyone can do that. I 'm sure there are really Seers out there, but they 're extremely rare. soothsaying is a very hide branch of magic that is difficult to translate. My mum says we should n't put much faith in it. ''

`` I still think it would be smart as a whip to get it on the future, though, '' Kaden grinned.

`` I do n't know, '' Matt shrugged, `` I 've always thought the hereafter was best left unknown quantity. ``

`` I 've always thought so, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` So, who 's going to snuffle it ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Carter Eubert, '' trick replied, `` That Ravenclaw we shared a gravy boat with when we crossed the lake in starting time year. I have to say that I 'm relieved it was n't me. ``

`` Me, too, '' Amanda agreed.

Rose groaned. `` I 've told you that it 's not real ! Trelawney has never accurately predicted a student 's expiry. She predicted my Uncle Harry 's dying and he 's still alive ! ``

`` Yeah, but did n't he nearly die at the end of his third class ? '' John asked.

`` Key word, nearly, '' rose replied, `` Plus, he faced death pretty much every year. ``

`` Ok, ok, '' privy said, `` But I 'm still gladiolus she did n't predict my death, even if it 's not a real anticipation. ``

`` So how was Ancient Runes ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Really worry ! '' rose said excitedly and proceeded to give a commentary on how the class had went. However, Kaden seemed to be the solely one really intrigued by it.

Albus and his friends spent the oddment of the evening in the Marauder 's Den. Once they had exhausted the subject of their first two twenty-four hours of classes, they moved on to the Quidditch competition and Albus 's hazard of making the Hogwarts team. Everyone thought Albus had a dependable chance of making it, except Albus. Then they talked a bit about their coming Hogsmeade head trip, although that topic form of made Kaden overjealous. John Lackland brought up the topic of Linda Morales, but both Rose and Matt did n't desire to talk about her at all.

Eventually, they had to return to Gryffindor tower in club not to intermit curfew. On his way up to his dormitory, Albus noticed that Linda once again was surrounded by a group of admirers, but appeared not to be enjoying it at all.

******

`` No ! I do n't want to go ! Dad, do n't cause me go ! ''

Albus 's oculus snapped open. He peered at the clock and saw that it was just after two in the morning. He could hear someone tossing and turning and mumbling in their quietus 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 flatness 's bed and Albus knew he was having a nightmare. Albus had been woken up by Matt 's nightmares on numerous affair, especially during first twelvemonth. They always seemed to come around the full moon lunation. Although, Albus was pretty sure that the to the full moon was n't for a few weeks. This nightmare sounded worse anyway.

The mumbling continued for another few hour and then stopped all of a sudden. Albus heard the bed creak and stride 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 elbow room and carefully shut the room access behind him. None of the early boys had woken up.

The vernacular elbow room was grim and empty when Albus got there. The fervency had long since died out and Albus shivered slightly as he stumbled around the elbow room. There was faint wand light coming from one of the street corner. Albus walked slowly towards it and saw matt sitting curled up in one of the chairs, staring at the floor.

matte 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 ? ``

`` sort 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 live I had a nightmare ? '' mat asked.

`` I sort of heard you mumbling, '' Albus answered, `` You were talking in your sleep. ``

`` Oh. ``

`` Listen, '' Albus paused, `` You do n't have to narrate me, but I was form of wondering who that bloke was that your boggart was. I mean, I kind of sentiment it would be a full lunar month. ``

`` So did I, '' Matt said quietly, `` Which is part of why I freaked out so much. ``

Albus nodded, wondering if flatness was going to stay on or not.

`` I know I have n't told you much about what happened when I lived in Commonwealth of Australia, '' lusterlessness began.

Albus nodded again. All he really knew about Matt 's life in Australia was that he had lived in a residence 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 stream pass of the Department for the regularisation and dominance of Magical Creatures, '' matte continued, `` He replaced my dad. But before that, he was the caput of the Werewolf Control social unit. ``

Albus was still a bit disconcert about why he was flatness 's boggart, but he figured it would be best to just not say anything.

`` While my parents were in the process of finding out where to move, a law was passed that all werewolves had to transform in a Ministry approved pith if their place of translation failed an inspection. Mine failed. ``

`` What ? ! '' Albus gaped at him, `` But your dad was- ''

`` The head of the section, I know. They passed the law while we were visiting New York. My parents refused to let me transform at one of the Ministry centers, so they broke the law and were fined. The low 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 midpoint. My parents said it was because he hated my dad so much. The two of them had some sort of hanker condition row going on or something. I do n't bonk the item. But anyway, '' matte paused, `` Eventually, Lubar was capable to pass a law that made it sound for the Ministry to consume werewolf by violence to one of the transformation nerve centre. He flooed to our house, grabbed me, and flooed to the Ministry approved center before my parents had a chance to stop him. ''

Albus stared at Matt. He could hardly believe what he was hearing. What was even more unlikely, was that it had been legal. How could it be legal to basically abduct a kid for a dark ?

`` I do n't remember any of it, '' mat said quietly, `` Except for what happens in the nightmare I have. It was horrible, though. The other wolfman were all adults and they all variety of ganged up on me. I spent a day or so at the infirmary in Australia and then my parents had me transferred to St. Mungo 's because they wanted healer Sterling to take care of me. I spent three weeks there. ``

`` fountainhead, it makes sense that you were so scared of that boggart, '' Albus said, `` Lubar is one of the most horrible maven I 've ever heard of. ''

lusterlessness nodded and shifted slightly. `` I thought I was over it. I mean, it was over five class ago. I really thought that boggart would turn into a full moon 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. ``

`` Nothing like that is going to happen here, '' Albus said quietly, `` Lubar has no control over our Ministry. He 's in Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` I guess you 're the right way, '' Matt sighed, `` I think I 'll go see if Madam Pomfrey will kick in me any dreamless sleep potion. Could I use the Invisibility Cloak ? ``

`` Yeah, of course, '' Albus said as he stood up. He had a feeling that Madam Pomfrey would definitely give him the dreamless eternal rest and probably try and convert him to spend the night in the hospital Wing as well.

Albus and Matt quietly walked back to the dormitory and Albus dug out the Cloak, as well as the second version Marauder 's Map, and handed them to Matt. Once lusterlessness had left the elbow room, Albus climbed back into bed.

Albus lay awake thinking about what Matt had told him for a while. His own boggart of not making the Hogwarts Quidditch team seemed very unimportant now that he knew the item about Matt 's boggart. That did n't make Albus any less unquiet about the try-outs, though.

******

Albus and the early Gryffindor third twelvemonth, as well as the Ravenclaws, started out the next day with History of legerdemain. All Albus learned during the hour was that thirdly twelvemonth chronicle of Magic was equally as tiresome as second yr. Transfiguration consisted of another lecture on Animagi and Albus noticed that John paid a considerably more sum of money of attending than he usually did. Albus thought this was pointless, though, since they had already established the late year that they would not go Animagi.

Care of Magical fauna was after tiffin and the category moved on to the slightly more interesting bowtruckles. Albus was very thankful for the suspension they had afterwards, when blush wine went to Muggle Studies.

`` It 's only the third day and I 'm already sick of homework, '' Albus muttered as they entered the Marauder 's Den.

`` So do n't do it, '' John the Divine said as he pulled a deep brown Gaul out of his bag.

`` You should do that fortune telling preparation, '' Amanda said, `` You know, the one where we predict what happens to us next Wednesday. ``

`` Already did it, '' privy announced.

Albus, Matt, and Amanda all stared in shock at John. John never ever did homework early. He was always the one finishing the in conclusion air of an essay as the instructor took attendance.

`` What ? '' John shrugged, `` I occasionally do stuff before it 's due. ``

`` No, actually, you do n't, '' Matt smirked.

`` Divination 's different. It 's fun to gain up fudge predictions. ``

`` So what 's happening to you succeeding Wednesday ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I 'm going to break my cervix when I fall off my broom. ``

`` John, you do n't even make for Quidditch, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Trelawney wo n't care. ``

Albus personally thought it was a waste of sentence to come up with fake 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 ? '' bathroom asked Albus and Matt.

`` Nope, '' matte 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 confused because no one was standing that close to it. Everyone was whispering and not paying an ounce of attention to it, so Balladanis stepped in front of it and you 'll never guess what it turned into ! ``

`` A werewolf ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, but that would have been funny, too, '' trick laughed, `` Anyway, it turned into a adult female. ``

`` A woman ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` Yeah, '' John said, `` A tall, skinny, pale faced woman. Her cutis was as pale as Linda 's. Her hair was a bit lighter, but still a dark Brown. The woman just kind of walked over to Balladanis with a smile on her face. She was kind of pretty in an odd form of way. ``

`` Now that is Wyrd, '' Albus replied, `` Why in the public figure of Merlin would he be afraid of women ? ``

`` Maybe it was a specific woman, '' Matt pointed out.

That would make more sense. After all, Matt was n't afraid of all men. His boggart had turned into a particular man. But Albus did think it was kind of odd that Balladanis, the derriere man who hated night Arts, would be afraid of a beldame. Albus would have thought he 'd be afraid of some form of shivery dark creature.

`` Who do you imagine she was ? '' Matt asked.

John shrugged. `` His wife ? ``

Albus smirked. `` wellspring, that would be funny. ``

`` My dad jocularity that he 's afraid of my mum at times, '' whoremonger replied, `` But I doubt his boggart would turn into her. ``

`` Maybe she 's some variety of dark beldame that he 's faced in the past, '' Amanda suggested.

`` beneficial cerebration ! '' lusterlessness agreed, `` Maybe she was a last eater. ``

`` I do n't know 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 variety of bloke to just stay in the background, does he ? ``

`` I guess not, '' Matt replied, `` She could still be an evil Wiccan, though. ``

`` That does make the most sense, '' whoremaster said, `` She must be really evil. I mean, Balladanis does n't seem like he 'd be afraid of anything. ``

`` Everyone 's afraid of something, '' Albus pointed out, `` But yeah, she must be vicious. ``

`` What did Balladanis do to ready her funny ? '' Matt asked.

`` Turned her into some sort of statue, '' Gospel According to John answered, `` It was strange, like she was petrified. She just froze in situation. And then Balladanis banished it to the trunk. ``

`` How is that curious ? '' Albus asked.

`` No estimation, '' bathroom shrugged, `` Just adds to the mystery that is Balladanis. ``

`` I 'm still not indisputable I like him, '' Matt commented.

`` Me, neither, '' Albus agreed.

`` But hey, at least he did n't give us any homework on the first day, '' John Lackland pointed out.

******

The next day Albus found himself yet again sitting in the backrest of the Defense schoolroom in between Matt and bathroom. Malfoy kept turning around in his can and smirking at Matt. Albus was glaring at him, silently daring him to say anything about flatness 's experience with the boggart.

Balladanis stormed into the room a few instant later in a way that reminded Albus of Washburn. The class immediately quieted down and Malfoy faced forward in his rear. 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 meter unable to stifle his laughter.

`` repose, Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis growled, `` Five points from Slytherin. ``

Albus could n't aid but grin at that. At least Balladanis was n't favoring Slytherin.

`` Therefore, we will carry on battling the boggart until you all have success with the spell, '' Balldanis continued, `` I do not require any of you to sneak through the crack and skate through this class on the tails of more successful student. That may work on while at Hogwarts, but the second you get out into the material world, it will abruptly end. Without a basic knowledge of justificatory patch, you will contact an untimely end at the work force of dark whizz. ``

This teacher was making it seem like they were in the midst of a war. Albus knew it was of import to be able 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, aunty, and uncles had said about Mad-Eye Moody.

`` shadow wizards love finding victims with little cognition of defensive patch. The students who skirt by with acceptable marks and just barely pass each exam, without really understanding anything. They also love the great unwashed who read book after Quran and feign to understand everything. And while these people may suffer a full knowledge of justificatory charm, they may not possess the science necessary to perform them, '' Balldanis 's middle rested on Rose and Linda.

`` I want everyone in this room to have more than the canonical skills needed to execute justificatory skills. I want everyone to be able to come off better in a duel. I want everyone to be able to defend themselves against dark puppet and thaumaturgist alike.

`` Starting with the boggart, I will not remain until every bookman is up to of performing every spell we learn in this course of study. I will assign supererogatory lessons to those I deem it essential. You will add up in for extra assistant. I do not care if it interferes with ball club or Quidditch practice. Quidditch will be of piddling help when you are facing a moody wizard or creature.

`` sales booth up ! '' Balladanis ordered. The course of instruction scrambled to their feet 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, `` Practice makes perfect. ``

The class lined up in strawman of the luggage compartment. Albus and his ally wound up being in the cover, and Albus did n't intend lusterlessness minded this in the to the lowest degree. He looked very skittish at the prospect of seeing the Lubar boggart again and Albus could n't charge him.

The line of credit moved much faster this clip than the live class. Everyone who had had problems with the boggart during the previous category seemed to do a better job this time.

Albus stepped forward once it was his turn and the boggart once again turned into Oteski, who told him he did not make water the team. Albus vaguely wondered what the boggart would change state into after the try-out, if they battled it after that. He shouted the go and moved to the side to stand next to Rose and Amanda.

St. John was adjacent and battled his clown boggart in the same way he had the other day. He stepped to the side and mat 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 lustrelessness slowly raised his wand, which was shaking.

`` R-R-Ridikkulus, '' lusterlessness whispered. Nothing happened and the boggart advanced towards Matt.

`` Louder, '' Balladanis told him.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' Matt shouted. Still nothing. His scepter arm was shaking even harder.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' he shouted once again.

This metre, the boggart spun around and when it stopped, Lubar was decked out in a blacken and snowy striped prison outfit with a ball and chemical chain attached to his right leg.

`` feeling like you owe us two Galleons, '' John smirked at Malfoy.

`` Not a chance, Brickston, '' Malfoy growled.

`` dependable job, '' Albus grinned as mat joined the group.

Balladanis already had the boggart shut in the luggage compartment when Albus looked back at his teacher.

`` That 's enough for today, '' Balladanis announced. `` You, '' he pointed at Matt, `` Come see me. ``

Matt glanced at Albus and then walked slowly towards Balldanis as the sleep of the grade left the elbow room. Albus and his friends lingered near the room access, but Balladanis gestured for them to forget. They reluctantly left, but waited just outside the doorway.

`` What did he want ? '' Albus asked once flatness exited the room.

`` I have to go in for extra help, '' mat groaned, `` Until I can face the boggart successfully. ``

`` But you were successful, '' St. John pointed out.

`` Not successful enough for Balladanis. ``

`` Somehow, I do n't think anyone would be successful enough for him, '' rose muttered.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` That was some spoken communication he gave at the beginning of class. ``

Albus still did n't know what to cerebrate of their new defence professor. He seemed very strict and Albus did n't really feel comfortable with him, but on the other manus, he seemed very knowledgeable in defensive piece. Albus had a notion they 'd learn a lot from him, and even though they were n't involved in a war at the moment, Albus knew denial skills were always important to have. That 's what his forefather had told him ever since he could remember. Albus had grown up knowing the need for defense against the dark arts. He just had never had it taught to him in such a forceful 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 hebdomad went by quickly. Albus spent all his spare time on the Quidditch pitch, trying to perfect his skills for the try-outs on Saturday. Unfortunately, the Slytherin Quidditch team booked the slant all Friday eve, so Albus was unable to chock up in a last minute practice session.

Instead, Albus sat in the common room with the rest of his Friend, trying to write an essay for transfiguration. He was supposed to enquiry a notable Animagi and write a substructure long essay about him or her. Albus had wanted to write about his grandfather, but given the fact that Prongs 's Animagus position had been a secret, Albus did n't think such an essay would exercise. So, Albus eventually decided to compose about McGonagall. He had a touch sensation half the grade would write about her.

`` What are McGonagall 's markings ? '' John the Divine asked, proving Albus 's theory.

`` Spectacle Saint Mark around her eyes, '' Albus answered as he stared at his mostly blank shell piece of music of parchment.

`` Thanks, '' John grinned, `` You just saved me fifteen arcminute of research. ``

`` No problem, '' Albus replied. He was n't sure why the essay was taking him so long. He knew a bang-up slew about McGonagall and her Animagus capabilities. He supposed he just had his mind on former things, like the Quidditch try-outs.

`` How can she even concentrate on her poring over ? '' Rose sighed loudly.

`` Who ? '' Albus asked.

`` Linda Morales, '' Rose muttered, with a hint of contempt in her articulation, `` Just look at her. ``

Albus turned around and saw Linda sitting at a board with a bunch of books and lambskin strewn about it. There was quite a crowd of son surrounding her, including Bilius, Ethan, James, Ben, Cedric, Nathan, and a few irregular years Albus did n't bonk the figure of. They all seemed to be talking at once while Linda had her eye fixed on one of the books.

`` Well, from what you 've said, she 's so freakishly overbold she does n't postulate to canvas, '' Kaden said.

`` Humph, '' Rose huffed, `` Everyone needs to read. ``

`` I think you 're jealous, rose, '' Albus smirked.

`` Am not, '' rose wine replied.

`` I wonder what locating she plays, '' John mused.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` Position. You know, in Quidditch, '' bathroom explained, `` She must be on the Aussie team. Since she 's our age, she ca n't be on the dueling team. ``

`` searcher, '' blush wine said.

`` How do you know ? '' Albus asked.

`` Karina asked her one day in the dorm, '' rose explained.

`` Who 's a Seeker ? '' lusterlessness 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 ? ``

`` Weird, '' lustrelessness replied, `` Balladanis was n't stern like he is in class. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden gaped, `` I do n't imagine I could imagine him not strict. ``

`` Yeah. I would n't say he was squeamish, but he did n't act like he does in socio-economic class. ``

`` What did he do ? '' whoremaster 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 proboscis. He did n't say much, just told me to engagement 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 Saame thing he told everyone in class the early day. But he changed it a bit. ``

flatness lowered his phonation. `` He said that the gunpoint of Defense socio-economic class was n't only to learn how to defend ourselves against the dark arts. He said it 's also to teach us why the iniquity art are so horrible. He then went on to tell me that it was especially of import for me to know that. ``

`` That is eldritch, '' Albus said quietly, `` You do n't think he said that because of, well, you know. ``

`` Yeah, I think he did, '' Matt replied, `` But he did n't say it in a average 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, '' flatness muttered, `` He wants me to go every Friday until he says I do n't have to anymore. ``

`` How did it go with the boggart, though ? '' pink wine asked.

`` I thought it went ok. I mean, I 'm doing considerably than I was. But he still wants me to go in for extra help. ``

`` Well, '' Kaden said after a few moments, `` This just proves that Balladanis is a very very unusual teacher. ``

******

Albus awoke riddled with nerves the next sunup. It reminded him of the nervousness he had only one year ago prior to the Gryffindor team try-outs. Only this was ten meter worse. He felt like he 'd eaten a few lively pygmy puffs and they were bouncing around his stomach trying to escape.

Try-outs were to be held shortly after lunch and Albus spent all morning talking with his boyfriend Gryffindor teammates in the common room. Georgia spent over an hr talking about the military posture and weaknesses of the other multitude who would be trying out. Albus only sort of paid attention. The sleep of the team seemed excited and not nearly as nervous as Albus. Albus thought James IV was golden ; 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 squad at dejeuner, although he did n't eat much. Georgia continued talking about everything they 'd require to know for the try-outs. The other Gryffindors kept coming up to him and wishing him luck. All Albus could contend to do was nod and mutter 'thanks'.

In an elbow grease to keep order on the Quidditch pitch shot, the headmaster had banned the balance of the bookman from watching the try-outs. Albus was very thankful of this and was kind of relieved when Peach State finally announced that they should entrust for the delivery. Albus 's protagonist wished him luck and he left the Great Hall following James.

The walk to the tar was quieten. Empire State of the South had stopped her running commentary on the strategy of the eternal sleep of the Hogwarts Quidditch players and everyone else seemed to realize they were more nervous than they thought.

Albus took a thick breathing space as he entered the pitching and adjusted his broom on his articulatio humeri. He tried to intend confirming thought process and followed his team onto the auction pitch. Then, he stopped in his tracks and felt his jaw driblet to the ground.

Standing in the midriff of the pitch shot, future to prof Oteski, Longbottom, Slughorn, Patil, and Polo, was none other than chemise lupine. Standing with chemise and the professor were Oliver Sir Henry Wood and President Tyler expressway, the capitulum Boy from Albus 's number one year.

`` What 's chemise doing here ? '' Epistle of James whispered.

`` No idea, '' Albus whispered back, wondering the Saami affair. Why was Teddy 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 rest of the scholarly person who were trying out. The Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff player were already there. Amongst the Ravenclaws were Kate Waverly, the Keeper ; Natalie overseas telegram, Damien Waverly, and Dan Martha Jane Burke, the chaser ; Zack Valentino and Allie Davis, the Beaters ; Miranda Corner, the Seeker. Their entire team was trying out, like the Gryffindor squad.

The Hufflepuffs had a few less thespian trying out. Their keeper, Tanner Royce was there, along with Anna Reilly and Shawn Ames, the Chasers. One of their Beaters, Andy Kaper was there. Albus remembered that their other Beater had graduated the previous twelvemonth. Lisa Galivant, their seeker, was there as well, looking determined.

The Slytherins showed up a few minutes later. Leading them was their new maitre d'hotel, Ferris Fielding, who was a chaser. His bloke chaser were Peyton Haines and Hailey Odele. Their remaining Beater, Talan Flint, glared at the Gryffindor team as he walked by.

professor Oteski gazed around the sales pitch and then looked at his watch. He said something to the four fountainhead of houses and then cleared his pharynx. Albus stopped watching the Slytherins and turned to Oteski.

`` I think everyone 's here now, '' Oteski began, `` First, I want to introduce you to your Head Captain and your supporter chieftain. King Oliver Sir Henry Joseph Wood, formerly of Puddlemere United, has agreed to captain the team. ``

There was a very loud one shot of applause and a few pennywhistle from the crowd of students. Albus grinned and clapped until the applause began to tranquillise down.

`` And your Assistant Captains are previous scholar you probably all remember. shift lupin, former quester and Captain of the Gryffindor team, and John Tyler Pike, former searcher and master of the Ravenclaw team will be your Assistant Captains. ``

Albus clapped hard decent to constitute his hands hurt. He had no idea Teddy was going to help run the Hogwarts team ! slip must have had a punishing time keeping that a secret over the summer.

`` You will all try out this afternoon and I, along with your chieftain and heads of family will make the determination tonight. The final inclination of the team as well as the reserve players will be posted in your green rooms late tomorrow.

`` Now, I thought we 'd start with the Seekers. Everyone else please go sit in the stands. ``

Albus and the vast majority of the bunch drifted towards the stands. James, Lisa, and Miranda remained in the pitch. Miranda was a third year and Lisa was a fourth part twelvemonth. Albus thought Saint James had a pretty good prospect of making the squad. He had beaten both of the early Seekers numerous times.

Albus paid some attention to James 's try-out, but mostly he was thinking about his own try-out. Eventually, St. James and the other searcher finished and Oteski called for the Keepers. Sakartvelo practically ran down to the pitch, followed by the early two keeper. Albus watched and he was pretty confident Empire State of the South would make the team as well. After Georgia returned with a vast smile 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 other Beaters.

Finally, Oteski announced for the chaser to enter the pitch. Albus stood up with his cousins, Heather and Fred, and walked nervously down to the tar. teddy flashed him a grin as he entered the pitch.

There were ten other chaser besides Albus ; the unsound opportunity of all the positions to get a spot on the team.

`` Ok, I want everyone to fly around the rake a few prison term, '' Oliver Grant Wood announced.

Albus mounted his Scots heather and flew into the air. His nerves seemed to quiet down as he felt the steer blowing against his nerve. Just think of it as another Quidditch match, he thought as he flew amongst the other Chaser hopefuls.

The thought of try-outs being like a Quidditch match carried Albus through the unanimous try-out. He was still neural and did drop a few Quaffles, but all in all, it was n't as bad as he thought it would suffer been. The eternal rest of the chaser 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 fool of himself.

`` Everyone did heavy, '' Joseph Oliver Natalie Wood said at the end of the try-out, `` We 'll make our decision and place the team list tomorrow. I 'll be seeing some of you really soon. ``

The radical started to disband and teddy made his way towards the Gryffindor team.

`` Teddy ! '' Georgia shouted, `` I ca n't think you might be my captain 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 sort of liked knowing something you lot did n't. ``

Sakartvelo groaned. `` Oh, shut it, slip. ``

`` You all did really well, though, '' teddy grinned.

`` Yeah, but there 's so many other pursuer, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Al, even if you do n't make it, you 're a magnificent Chaser and you 'll still ingest the sign of the zodiac Quidditch. That 's still going on during this whole thing. ``

`` Oi, teddy bear ! '' Tyler Pike called, `` Get a move on, we 've got to talk about the squad ! ``

`` I 'll see you later, Al, everyone else, '' Teddy waved as he left.

Albus left the pitch with the rest of his team, who were all talking animatedly about the highlighting of the try-outs. Albus was thrilled that chemise was going to be one of the captains and it made him hope for a spot on the squad even more than he had before.

Albus and the rest of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were greeted by strident hand clapping when they returned to the common room. Albus thought it was kind of premature, since none of them were actually on the team yet, but it was still squeamish. Rose, Matt, and Amanda were sitting at their usual table and Albus went over to them.

`` How was the try-out ? '' flatness asked immediately.

`` Better than I thought, '' Albus replied as he sat down, `` I think I have a tenuous fortune of making it. ``

`` That 's salutary, '' matte grinned.

`` Oh, and shift 's one of the police captain ! '' Albus told them.

`` Really ? '' Rose said, `` Who are the others ? ``

`` Tyler freeway, the Head Boy from our first year, and Oliver Wood- ''

`` King John is going to be thrilled when he finds that out, '' flatness interrupted.

Albus grinned. Oliver Wood had gone to Slughorn 's Christmas party in their initiatory yr and Saint John the Apostle had given him a Quaffle to subscribe. john was a big champion of Oliver Sir Henry Wood and Puddlemere United.

`` Where is privy anyway ? '' Albus asked, `` And Kaden ? ``

`` In the vulture 's Den, '' flatness answered, `` Plotting. They 're planning on swimming in the lake tomorrow with the Giant Squid. ``

`` I 'm rather afraid of what kind of plotting they 're doing, '' rose wine muttered, `` If swimming requires plotting, nothing well will come of it. ``

`` I take it you three do n't want to join them ? '' Albus laughed.

`` Definitely not, '' Amanda said.

`` Are you insane, Albus ? '' rose wine raised her supercilium, `` Of course not. ``

`` Nope, '' mat shook his head, `` I 'd rather not get in problem this soon into the year. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't want to either. '' Albus and his friends had gotten into quite a bit of hassle, mostly because of Kaden, the previous year and Albus was hoping he 'd keep Filch 's custody to a minimum this year.

`` The two of them are going to be in hold more often than they 're not, '' rose muttered.

`` That would n't surprise me, '' Albus replied. John the Divine had always been the trouble-maker of Albus 's radical, even before Kaden entered the scene. And then when Kaden had arrived, cypher was going to block off him. Now lav had mortal to conspire with for all of his mischievous schemes.

******

Although Albus and lustrelessness flat out refused to swim in the lake with john and Kaden, the two mischievous male child managed to win over them to at least watch by the position of the lake. However, pink wine and Amanda refused to be anywhere near the lake when this took place. Rose insisted that she needed to commit the day to studying and Amanda decided to join her. Albus had a feeling Rose 's increased amount of studying had a lot to do with Linda Morales, but knew best than to bring up this to his cousin.

lav and Kaden walked excitedly ahead of Albus and Matt 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 thankful. If John and Kaden got caught, Albus preferred to not experience anything about it, so he could deny his involvement.

There were a few bookman sitting around the lake enjoying the warm late summer day when the boys arrived. Albus and Matt chose a spot underneath a large beech Tree and sat back to watch out the event unfold.

whoremonger and Kaden grinned at each other and then pulled off their shirts and shoes, so they were only wearing shorts. A few first class girls who were sitting near Albus and Matt giggled and began whispering to each other. Albus turned to flatness and rolled his centre. Matt stifled a laugh.

`` This is n't going to end well, '' Albus said.

`` But it will be entertaining to see, '' Matt laughed.

John and Kaden began to obnoxiously stretch by the bound of the water. Albus had a notion they were doing it only to try and gain the attention of the few educatee who were n't watching them. succeeding, they bent down to the water and felt the temperature.

`` Bloody hell ! '' Gospel According to John shouted, `` It 's freezing ! ``

`` That means we 'll just jumpstart right in ! '' Kaden announced. He turned around and walked away, and then took a running start into the lake. He landed with a loud dab that soaked John, who was still standing by the edge.

`` They 're mad, '' Albus grinned.

`` All right wing, here it goes ! '' John shouted and followed Kaden into the water, `` Merlin, that 's frigid ! ``

Albus laughed as John and Kaden got used to the H2O. The two of them were flailing around and shrieking corresponding niggling female child. They had gained quite a few on-lookers who were standing around the lake laughing their foreland off.

Albus may not experience wanted to do something this crazy himself, but he was having a near metre watching his supporter do it. The two of them got used to the weewee and then began swimming around.

However, merely swimming in the Black Lake was n't that exciting. Albus knew they had something else up their sleeve ( or lack thereof ) and it was only a subject of time until they put their programme into action.

lavatory and Kaden were just beginning to deliver a contest to see who could remain underwater the longest when a long tentacle appeared out of the urine a few base behind them.

`` Ooo ! '' a girl shouted, `` It 's the squid ! ``

Both privy and Kaden turned around. `` Yes ! '' they both shouted at the like time, `` The squid has arrived ! ``

Albus watched as John and Kaden swam towards the tentacle, wondering what sort of torment they were going to visit upon the squid. He did n't think the calamary was particularly dangerous, but who knew what it would do if it was provoked.

Saint John and Kaden treaded water on either slope of the tentacle and then began to vellicate it. This earned a bunch of loud pant and Sir Thomas More hysterical laugh from the crowd.

A few more of the squid 's tentacles appeared out of the water and two of them smacked St. John and Kaden on their heads.

`` Hey ! '' whoremaster shouted and pushed the tentacle away.

Then, the squid 's capitulum emerged from the surface of the body of water. A few of the younger girls who were watching began to shriek and the sure-enough educatee laughed even harder. Albus was laughing and shaking his headway at the same time. He could n't help but laugh at his friends'foolishness. They should have known that the squid would try and vibrate back. And it had more arms than whoremonger and Kaden combined.

can and Kaden grinned at each other and then swim towards the back of the calamary as it rose out of the water. They grabbed onto its back and began to tease it. Albus gaped as the squid began to swim around with John and Kaden on top of it. The two of them had actually decided to mount the Giant Squid.

`` They 're half-wit, '' lusterlessness commented.

Albus nodded as the calamari swam closer and closer to the shore. The looker-on retreated and scattered as it drew nearer. John and Kaden both looked thrilled, until the calamari propelled them onto the shore. They landed in the grass and the squid returned into the murky depth of the lake.

Albus jumped up and ran towards John and Kaden, followed by matt. He squeezed his way through the crowd 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 entertaining. ``

`` 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 calamary threw you five feet into the air ? '' mat asked.

`` It was fun, '' Kaden shrugged.

`` movement aside ! '' a female voice shouted.

The bunch immediately dispersed and masses ran towards the castle and to other areas of the grounds.

Albus looked up and saw prof 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 behemoth Squid ! '' Patil shouted at John the Divine and Kaden, `` Is that true ? ``

`` Er- '' St. John the Apostle began.

`` fountainhead ... '' Kaden said.

`` Of course it is ! '' Patil replied, `` count 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 squid ... '' she shook her straits, `` Well, you two will need to go to the infirmary fender and then I 'll arrogate you detention. ``

John and Kaden stood up and nodded. The thrill that had been on their faces just second before, was completely gone.

`` And what about you two ? '' Patil said to Albus and lusterlessness, `` Were you involved ? I see you 're both dry, but I 've noticed that the four of you are always getting in trouble together. ``

`` They did n't do it, Professor, '' Kaden announced.

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` They did n't even know what we were going to do. ``

Albus felt a surge of gratitude for his booster, especially Kaden. Just a class ago, Kaden had been getting all four of them in trouble for things only he had done. Now, he was actually telling teacher 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 need to keep an eye on me. Mr. ceramist and Mr. Eckerton, you may revert to your common room. ``

Albus did n't demand to be told twice. He and lusterlessness 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 individual handedly cause the destruction of the entire palace, '' Albus laughed.

`` It 's only a thing of when they 'll do it, '' lustrelessness smirked, `` Let 's see, Kaden 's already tormented the Whomping willow tree, and now they 've tormented the Giant calamary. What 'll be next ? ``

`` Filch 's new cat ? '' Albus suggested.

`` Filch would love that, '' lustrelessness replied.

At some point in between the end of the live on yr and the start of this one, Filch had obtained another cat. Albus had heard stories about his previous cat, Mrs. Norris, from his parents, aunt, and uncles, but had never actually met her. She had died before Albus was born. Apparently Filch had been so overpower by heartache 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 student who were breaking rules. All the bookman took an immediate dislike to Josie and turned in the former counseling when they saw her modest orange body emerge from around the corner.

people were already talking about privy and Kaden 's swimming in the lake when Albus and Matt entered the Gryffindor common room. Albus had a feeling it would be weeks before anyone forgot about it.

Albus and Matt spotted Rose and Amanda and sat down at their mesa. It was spread with numerous Scripture and drum roll of parchment and quill. The only other tabular array that rivaled its amount of money of books was the one Linda Morales was sitting at.

`` I take it you 've heard about John and Kaden 's incident with the squid ? '' Albus asked.

`` minute and piece, '' 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 measured, '' rosiness said as she frantically scribbled something onto a curl of parchment.

Albus looked curiously at his cousin. Rose had always been a stickler for homework, but never had he seen her this obsessed with it unless it was right before the end of full term exam. And this was only the first week of school.

`` Rose, why do n't you take a intermission ? '' Albus suggested. He was actually form of apprehensive about her. Studying was safe, but too much was kind of unhealthy.

`` Ca n't, '' rosiness muttered, `` My Potions essay is only a curlicue and a half of parchment. ``

Albus gaped at her, `` Rose, you do bed that Slughorn only wants a half a roll, right ? ``

blush wine nodded. `` Yeah, but Janie said that Linda 's essay is already two curlicue. So I 've got to make mine at least that long. ``

`` Rose, '' Albus sighed, `` Your essay does n't sustain to be recollective than Linda 's. ``

`` Yes, it does, '' Rose insisted.

Albus sighed and sat back in his electric chair. He knew it was a lost cause. His cousin had that determined look in her eyes and Albus knew there was no convincing her that she did n't have got to be so competitive with Linda.

`` I think she studies so much because she does n't really hold any friends here, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` What ? '' Albus looked at her incredulously. At any given moment, Linda was surrounded by at to the lowest degree five early people. She was easily the most democratic of all the Australian students. `` Look at her ! She 's got eight the great unwashed talking to her at once ! ``

Amanda groaned. `` They 're not her friends. They just think she 's pretty. She does n't even desire 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 pupil ? ``

Albus looked at Linda again. Amanda was right. Linda was n't actually talking to any of the students around her. And come to think of it, he had n't seen her talk to any of the other Australian student either. `` admiration why that is ? ``

Amanda shrugged. `` fountainhead, all the other Australian scholarly person are a lot older than her. All her friend are probably still in Australia. ``

`` She could befriend any of those feller near her, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Again, they 're only there because they think she 's pretty, '' Amanda sighed, `` But she 's really really quiet. Her outset night here, she did n't say a Word in the dormitory. Now, Janie 's really the sole one she talks to. I mean, being shy is one thing, but never talking at all ? ``

Albus turned to Linda once again. It was variety of odd for her never to talk to anyone, besides the instructor. It was like the only thing she wanted to do was discipline. Her obsession with prep seemed to be ten times that of Rose 's and Albus was n't sure as shooting if rose wine could keep up.


A/N : Big thanks to PotterCast for giving me the mind for the hulk squid incident ! The title for this chapter was also made up by PotterCast. It 's used in one of their interview with J.K. Rowling podcasts.

As usual, thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the amazing people who have read and reviewed this storey !

Also, I am yet again doing NaNoWriMo, so if I 'm ever late on updates or seeming to take a long time to do recapitulation, that 's why !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


privy and Kaden returned to the unwashed 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 early Gryffindors had been congratulating John and Kaden on their heart and stupidity until they heard about the points. After that, John and Kaden were glared at and ignored by their house-mates.

The boys joined Rose and Amanda in their perusing once the excitement died down. All of the son had neglected their preparation over the weekend.

Albus tried to concentrate on his Potions essay, but he could n't. The list of who made the Hogwarts Quidditch squad was going to be up within the next few hours. Albus kept stealing coup d'oeil at the content add-in as if the list would suddenly appear there.

It did n't help that diverse penis of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were coming up to Albus and trying to get his opinion of whether they made the team or not. How was he supposed to hump if they made the squad ? He was the immature one trying out. If anyone was going to be asking about whether they made the team, it should be Albus.

Would it even be that bad if Albus did n't make it ? He was n't sure. He did want to make the team. He wanted that more than anything, but at the same time, he knew it was going to be a lot of oeuvre and quite steel wracking. It would be a heavy batch than playing for Gryffindor, that was for sure. The intact school would be watching his chasing acquirement and hoping he would win. Albus loved playing Quidditch, but if he was reliable with himself, he did n't like a totally lot of people watching him. Making the Hogwarts team would control that hundred of people would be watching him.

Albus managed to write about half his essay before dinner party, but he did n't conceive it was very good. Oh, well, he thought. One failed essay would n't matter in the long run.

He went down to dinner with his friends, but did n't participate much in their conversations. In fact, he was probably as quiet as Linda.

Albus glanced up at the stave table. His eyes 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 squad. Albus hoped he 'd rush up and stake the list.

`` Albus ! '' GA nearly collided with Albus on his trek back up to the Gryffindor usual room after dinner, `` The list is posted ! '' Empire State of the South turned around and sprinted back to the common room.

Albus took a deep breathing space and his heart sped up. This was it, he thought. Within a few minutes, he 'd love whether he made the team or not.

There was a magnanimous crowd around the substance panel when Albus entered the way. James burst out of the crowd with a Brobdingnagian grin on his face.

`` I made it ! '' he shouted, `` I 'm the Hogwarts Seeker ! ``

The entire common way outburst into applause. Albus grinned through his heart and patted his crony on the back.

`` What about me ? '' Albus whispered to James, `` Did I make it ? ``

`` flavour for yourself, '' James IV grinned and pushed him towards the substance board.

`` I do n't opine I can, '' Albus sighed. This was unsound than go year when he tried out for the Gryffindor team.

`` You have to, '' King John insisted.

Albus took a rich breath and squeezed his way through the crowd. He closed his oculus and then stared at the list.

Keeper- Sakartvelo Weasley, Gryffindor, 7th year.

That did n't surprise Albus in the least. In fact, he would ingest been shocked if Peach State had n't made the squad. No wonderment she looked so excited 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 moving ridge of disappointment overcome him. He had n't made it. All the other Chasers were seventh geezerhood, and captains of their respective house teams at that. Why had he thought he 'd be able to compete with them ?

He continued to show 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 only one who was n't a seventh year on the team. That was good. But still, most of the squad were seventh eld. All the team captains made the team. That made sense. As senior pilot, they were most potential the best Quidditch players in the school.

Seeker- Saint James Potter, Gryffindor, 4th year.

reticence thespian

Keeper- Kate Waverly, Ravenclaw, 5th year.

Kate would be happy, Albus thought. She had been Albus 's dueling captain last twelvemonth. She was nice and Albus was happy she at least got to be the reserve Keeper.

Chaser- Hailey Odelle, Slytherin, 7th year.
Chaser- Albus ceramist, Gryffindor, 3rd year.

Albus gaped at the leaning. He blinked and read it again, just to take sure enough his eyes were working properly. They were. He, Albus Severus Potter, was one of the backlog pursuer ! Suddenly, the disappointment was gone and Albus felt as happy as he would possess if he made the regular squad. reservation was improve than nothing after all. Plus, there would n't be as a good deal pressure.

Beater- Talan Flint River, 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 squad, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Yeah, you are, '' James contradicted, `` Did n't you read at the bottom where it said the reserve participant have to go to pattern and everything ? ``

`` Er, no, '' Albus shrugged sheepishly. He had n't noticed much after his own name.

`` well, that 's what it said, '' James River continued, `` First practice is on Saturday. ``

Albus tried to work on his Potions essay later that evening, but it was no use. The common room was in the midst of a party that usually only followed a spectacular win at Quidditch. Georgia, Saint James, and eventually Albus were thrown into the throng of it and he quickly gave up on his essay. No one else, besides rosebush and Linda, was working on homework and Albus figured it would be pointless to even try. Maybe Slughorn would n't birth enough metre to even get to Albus 's essay due to the length of rose 's and Linda's.

******

In fact, the relief of the week was much like that night in the Gryffindor common room. Albus seemed to attract tending wherever he went. On his way to class, in class, even on his way to the bath, citizenry came up to him and congratulated him. educatee who he had never even talked to before were telling him what a brilliant Chaser he was. All in all, he was kind of shocked at the entirely thing. It 's not like he was one of the main Chasers on the team.

Albus 's friends were kind of enjoying the whole affair. They were variety of attracting attention by tie-up. John the Divine and Kaden were already known as 'those Gryffindor blokes who rode the colossus Squid'and now had the added renown of being some of Albus 's close-fitting Friend. Rose seemed oblivious to the unscathed thing and devoted more fourth dimension than ever to studying. Matt and Amanda seemed to wish they would n't draw so much attention.

Even Lily and Hugo were attracting attention by being the baby and cousin of the Hogwarts Seeker. Albus 's fame paled in comparing to James 's. James had a group of admirers following him all the time. Lily and Victor Hugo told anyone they could that they were the sister and first cousin of Saint James the Apostle. Ashtyn, John 's sister, told everyone she was the baby of one of the blokes who rode the hulk Squid and that her brother was friends with Albus.

John and Kaden had nightly detention with Filch and both boys came back quietly cursing Filch every evening. Apparently the caretaker was as ruthless as ever with his detentions.

The detention was n't the only thing John earned from his trip into the lake either. On Monday morning, he was blessed with a thigh-slapper from his female parent. Instead of running into the Entrance mansion house like virtually pupil did with their riot, John opened it at the Gryffindor mesa and the integral elbow room, including the teachers, listened to privy 's mum scream at the top of her lungs about how stupid he had been. John 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 excitement of the Hogwarts Quidditch team being picked would die down over the weekend.

On Sabbatum afternoon, Albus left his friends in the usual room and walked with Empire State of the South and William James to the Quidditch pitch.

Oliver Wood, Tyler Pike, and shift were already there, along with a few of the squad member. Albus stood with Georgia and James I as they waited for the eternal rest of the team to show up.

`` First, I 'd like to say congratulations, '' Joseph Oliver announced once everyone arrived, `` You are now the Hogwarts Quidditch team. I 'm Joseph Oliver Wood and I will be your chieftain. teddy and Tyler are here to help.

`` Now, I know even Quidditch is still going on, so we 'll birth to work around each house 's practice schedules. I 've looked at those and I think Sat afternoons will work best for practice. For now, we 'll perplex with once a calendar week practice and increase if necessary.

`` I thought we 'd originate by doing a few drills, just so everyone can get used to playing with each other. I know it 'll be an fitting, since you usually compete against the other houses, not toy on the Saame squad as them. ``

An adjustment was an understatement, Albus thought. As the practice progressed, it became apparent that it was extremely difficult to crop with members of other household. Albus found that it was instinct to try and keep the Quaffle away from his fellow pursuer rather than to pass it to them.

Wood, Teddy, and Tyler tried to get everyone to shape together, but Albus thought it would call for more than one practice. Everyone was rather subdued by the time the practice ended. nobody had been able to work together, except for James IV and Lisa. The two of them actually cooperated. But the Chasers and Beaters in finical had a surd time working together. Ferris Henry Fielding, Hailey Odelle, and Talan Flint left the lurch muttering about how they could n't work with 'bloody Gryffindors'.

Sir Henry Wood looked ready to scream and flip things by the meter everyone left. He was whispering to chemise 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 get laid how this is going to work. ``

`` It 's got to work, '' James 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 away anyone else the Quaffle ! It 's like they 're trying to prove they 're the best chaser ! ``

`` wellspring, they 're idiots, then, '' King James I said, `` And they better discontinue if they want to actually win this. ``

Albus definitely agreed with that. Fielding and Odelle certainly were n't acting like team participant. Fielding had actually pushed Albus out of the way in order to get the Quaffle before him.

Albus felt rather depressed about the practice for the residuum of the day. It seemed that the house rivalries really were unspeakable. Albus would be the first-class honours degree to admit that the dislike Slytherin and certainly was n't lining up to go Charles Herbert Best friends with any of them, but he was willing to put the rivalry behind him for the rice beer of the Quidditch tournament. But it did n't appear like many other member of the team wanted to do so.

Luckily for Albus, the fame of being a military reserve histrion on the team seemed to decrease during the adjacent week. He was able-bodied to hitch up on his homework and spend time with just his friends, without anyone else following him.

Of line, expenditure time with Rose was beginning to be pointless. Albus could n't think of the shoemaker's last time he 'd had a real conversation with her or seen her without a book unresolved in social movement of her.

`` Rose, you 've got to give it a relief, '' Albus said the undermentioned Sabbatum. He was sitting in the commons room, killing time before the second Quidditch recitation. `` No one can possibly canvass this much. ``

`` I can, '' rosiness muttered as she read, `` Linda can. She studies at night. I woke up in the middle of the Night and saw her reading material. I do n't think she sleeps. I 've heard her sneek out in the center of the Nox before. I think she goes into the common elbow room and studies. ``

Albus stared at rose wine. He had never seen her like this. Usually Rose was rational. `` Rose, I 'm good. read a prison-breaking. ``

`` No, '' Rose said adamantly.

Albus sighed and got up to go to drill. He was really worried about Rose. Unfortunately, Quidditch recitation did nothing to lift his spirits. The practice was another disaster.

`` All right wing, all rightfield ! '' Natalie Wood shouted and motioned for everyone to fly down.

Albus landed next to James IV and looked at forest. He was looking very very stern and determined.

`` We 've had two practice session, '' Sir Henry Wood began to pace, `` Two practices and you 're still flying like you 're a squad 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 secure of Hogwarts 's Quidditch players. The 1 who could someday play professionally. But I 've been sorely disappointed.

`` The menage competition are disrupting your acting. I 've got as a great deal Gryffindor pride as the next Gryffindor, but I would put that aside if I had gotten the opportunity to do this spell I was in school. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. You realize that there will be scouts for professional teams at these matches ?

`` In rattling life, you 're going to hold to play with people you do n't wish. So you 'd better get used to it. All I have to say is that if you do n't shape up and put the petty bickering aside, I will not waffle to kick you off the team. I 'll give you a week to do it. If any of you are still fighting next Saturday, you 're off the team. Practice is over. ``

No one said a discussion as they filed out of the pitch. Albus thought Sir Henry Joseph Wood 's actor's line had been effective. He was sick of the combat as well. He 'd put the rivalries aside for the sake of Quidditch. After all, Albus was on the same dueling team as Scorpius Malfoy and they acted civilly towards each other. Albus wondered if the Australian and New York squad had had this many emergence with getting along. He had n't watched any of their practice, but Peach State had. She said both team were incredibly good.

******

`` I ca n't ingest it anymore ! '' Rose shouted as she slammed her Holy Writ down on the table, which startled Matt out of his homework and impending broad moon induced slumber.

Albus and his friends were in the Marauder 's Den, working on the plethora of homework they had been assigned on that item Mon. Albus, who had been watching Rose grow steadily Sir Thomas More tense and snappish over the past few solar day, knew it was only a affair of metre before she cracked.

`` Er, pink wine, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

`` No ! '' Rose shouted so loudly that lusterlessness winced and rubbed his head. `` I 'm not ok ! I ca n't take it ! I just ca n't ! nil I do is good enough, nada ! I just ca n't beat her. She got a high-pitched grade on that Potions essay and she answered Thomas More doubt in August 6 today. Not to advert the fact that she does n't look like she 's going to flow asleep at any mo, like John Lackland was so kind to manoeuver out about me earlier. '' 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 moment. Her center had purpleness purse under them and were bloodshot. fuse that with the fact that she was nearly in rent, and she looked dread. In fact, she looked an awful lot like Matt did.

`` Rose, '' Amanda said quietly, `` You do n't have to beat out her at everything. ``

`` But I do ! '' rosiness wailed, `` I do n't even know why, but I do ! ``

`` Look, '' Amanda continued, `` She 's from Australia. They might instruct stuff in a unlike purchase order 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 beat you. ``

`` Maybe, '' blush wine sighed and poked lusterlessness, `` matt ! Do you know what they 're learning in Australia now ? Amy went there, did she tell you ? ``

matte groaned and glared at Rose. `` No, how would I fuck ? Amy went there long time 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 important about tomorrow ? Oh, we 've got a defence reaction essay due ! I have to edit mine ! ``

`` No, '' Albus groaned, `` Tomorrow 's the good Sun Myung Moon. ``

rose wine froze. `` Oh, Merlin. I had n't even realized. ``

`` I figured, '' Albus said, `` take heed, you 're not doing anymore prep tonight. ``

`` But I need to edit- ''

`` No, '' Albus said, `` You need a recess. ``

`` Albus is correctly, '' Amanda agreed and took Rose 's pile of books away, `` You 're not studying for the rest of the dark. ``

`` Uh, ok, '' Rose smiled nervously, `` I can do that. I mean, what 's the worst that can happen ? ``

blush wine did n't look to acknowledge what to do with herself. Albus found it difficult to contract on his own homework as he watched rosiness pace around the room, trying to figure out something to do. Eventually, she settled on helping Kaden with his transfiguration essay. Albus and Amanda exchanged glances at this, but neither of them said anything since Rose was n't technically doing any prep. She was merely helping Kaden.

Albus, flatness, john, and Kaden wound up spending the night in the piranha 's Den. Matt had been so vocalise asleep by the time curfew arrived, that no one wanted to wake him up nor did anyone wishing to allow for him there alone. Albus certainly did n't heed. He liked spending the Night there. It gave him a sort of connection with his grandfather.



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

Here 's the Weasley mob Tree, to help everyone keep track of them.
Wealsey-Potter-Dursley Family tree diagram

Bill-Fleur Charlie-Katherine ( beldam ) Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Victoire, 19 John Rowlands, 18 Georgia, 7th year
Gabriella, 7th yr Heather, 6th year Thomas Bradley, 5th yr
Ben, 4th twelvemonth Mark, 5th class Cedric, 4th year
Eddie, 7 twelvemonth old Samantha & lindy hop ( twins ), 8 years old

George-Alicia Spinnet Ron-Hermione Ginny-Harry
Fred, 6th year Rose, 3rd twelvemonth St. James, 4th yr
Angie, 10 year old Victor Hugo, 1st year Albus, 3rdd year
Lily, 1st year

Dudley-Christina ( Muggle )
Kaden- 2nd year
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 next morning time. Albus did notice her scribbling some last bit sentences onto it as Balladanis collected the essays.

Defense Against the nighttime fine art continued to be the strange course in Albus 's schedule. Balladanis expressed such a strong disfavor for the dark arts that he started nearly every form with a stern talking to about why they were learning defensive spells and why the dark arts were bad. His eyes tended to catch one's breath on Matt and for some odd ground, Linda, whenever he gave these talks and Albus got the feeling it made mat extremely uncomfortable. Albus could n't blame him. He certainly would n't need to be under the instructor 's eye like that.

Albus could n't really say whether he enjoyed Balladanis 's course or not. It had been nearly a month since the term started, but Albus still did n't have a go at it whether he liked the class or not. It was definitely different than when his dad taught. Balladanis was strict, but a good teacher.

The rest of the day went by quickly. Albus listened to John teaser rose wine during Herbology since she was fretting about her DoD essay. antediluvian Runes was rather irksome and Albus doodled idly on his notes while Matt fell asleep on his. Charms was rather fun since they worked on shouting Charms and Albus left the room grinning profusely, along with almost of the other family. lustrelessness in picky looked foreign with a Brobdingnagian smile across his pale fatigued face.

matte left for the Shrieking hovel shortly after dinner and Albus went to the predator 's Den with his friends where they distracted rosebush from her studying by playing sensation 's Chess.

The following day Albus truly began to realize how meddlesome his third yr schedule was. For the yesteryear two years, he and his friends almost always had sentence to call Matt in the hospital wing in between classes. This year, however, they did n't own sentence until after dinner. Albus was positively exhausted by that point, as he had stayed up late working on homework the night before, and still had Dueling Club practice afterwards. Lynley Phil Anderson, the fourth year Hufflepuff who had replaced Kate as skipper, had insisted that the whole team attend that meeting, as it was the showtime one and there were new secondment geezerhood on the squad. Kaden was n't put on Albus 's squad, but he was put on John 's team, much to the delight of both boys.

Hectic was really the simply way to describe Albus 's living at Hogwarts. As September turned into October, it only got busier. Gryffindor Quidditch squad drill picked up again and along with Hogwarts Quidditch practices and Dueling society practice, Albus hardly had anytime to rest.

The Hogwarts Quidditch team was shaping up nicely after Wood 's prat warning during the back practice. That and the fact that they now practiced on both Tuesdays and Saturday. Even the Slytherin squad members were beginning to shape together. They did n't really acknowledge their mate outside of pattern, but Albus did n't care 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 play in the first catch, which would be taking place towards the end of October.

`` first Hogsmeade weekend ! '' Saint John said excitedly to Albus one Friday evening as Albus was trying to capture up on his preparation. Kaden was standing future to him. Albus guessed they had just returned from Dueling Club practice.

`` When ? '' Albus asked without looking up.

`` October 27th, '' Saint John the Apostle grinned, `` Ca n't wait ! ``

`` Yeah, it 'll be brilliant, '' Albus agreed, hoping he would n't feature too much homework to go.

`` That 's not all, either, '' John went on, `` There 's a Hallowe'en political party that night. ``

`` You mean the Halloween feast ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, there 's an actual company ! '' John said, `` But it 's not on Allhallows Eve, it 's on the 27th. It 's because of the Tournament. So we can mingle with the strange scholar. Or at least that 's what the poster on the notice board says. ``

Albus nodded. He really had n't had that a lot striking with the foreign pupil. Sure, he 'd seen them in the corridors and the common 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 blab to anyone.

`` And, '' John continued, `` Costumes are encouraged. ``

`` Costumes ? '' Albus asked, finally looking up.

`` Yeah, costumes, '' John grinned, `` We get to garb up ! This is going to be brilliant ! ``

`` What should we dress up as ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` We 'll figure it out later, '' St. John said, `` Where 's everyone else ? ``

`` rose and Amanda are at the program library, '' Albus told him, `` And Matt 's with Balladanis. ``

`` Merlin, is he ever going to give up about that boggart ? '' John asked.

`` Knowing Balladanis, probably not, '' Albus said.

`` Well, let 's go to the library, '' John announced, `` We 've got to recite rose and Amanda about Hogsmeade. ``

Albus was all too eager to harmonize to this. He was thoroughly sick of trying to take hold of up on all his homework. It was good to take a break every now and then anyway.

Albus pushed open the door to the library a little while later, fully expecting to see rose wine up to her elbow joint in record furiously scribbling away on a pealing of parchment that was nearly used up. He gazed around the depository library and he spotted rosiness 's bushy red tomentum and walked towards her table.

pink wine was up to her elbows in homework. In fact, there were so many record book on rose wine and Amanda 's table that you could no longer see the actual table. What Albus was n't expecting to see was a third mortal at their board. Linda Morales

Albus stopped short-change a few feet from the table. He turned to take care at John, who looked equally shocked.

`` Is that- '' John began.

`` Linda Morales ? '' Albus gaped. He blinked twice to make for certain he was n't seeing things. After all, he was quite wear out. But even after he blinked, Linda was still sitting across from rose wine 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 Saint John the Apostle followed. Albus was n't entirely sure what to say. He had n't had much interaction with Linda. Albus had hardly said hello to her since she arrived at Hogwarts. He was n't trying to discount her or anything ; it had just ended up that way. Linda had n't shown any very pastime in making friends with Albus or any of his friends. Yet here she was, doing prep at the same table as Rose of all people. Albus had n't the slightest idea why either.

`` rosiness, '' 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 sighed loudly. `` Fine, but stimulate it quick. ``

Albus led his cousin over to a desolate orbit of the depository library. John took blush wine 's abandon seat and began to whisper to Amanda about the Hogsmeade visit.

`` All right, what is it ? '' rosebush asked once they were alone.

`` Could n't help but notice that you were studying with Linda ... '' Albus 's vox trailed off. He really did n't experience what he wanted to say to Rose about it.

`` Oh, well ... '' Rose began, `` I guess I just realized I was being dolt in trying to compete with her. ``

Albus smirked, `` Yeah, you were. But I told you that loads of times and you did n't listen. ``

rosiness sighed. `` I know. Amanda 's the one who convinced me to cease trying to contend with her. She said Linda would cognise a lot about Australian wizarding history and I could learn a lot from her if I stopped with the competitor thing. ``

Of course, Albus thought. Appealing to Rose 's lovemaking of learning would definitely make. Although he had n't really been trying to have rosiness and Linda become friends. He just wanted Rose to ease up on the studying.

`` I guess, if you ca n't dumbfound 'em, you might as well bring together 'em, '' rose shrugged.

`` So now you 're friends with her ? '' Albus asked.

`` That 's where it gets complicated, '' rosebush sighed, `` You see, she still does n't really babble to us. ``

`` How did you scent up studying with her then ? '' Albus was still thoroughly confused.

`` Amanda and I came in and she was sitting alone at the table, so I asked if we could link her. She just nodded and moved her books 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, '' rosiness said, `` Amanda and I figure we 'll just be nice to her and maybe she 'll come out talking to us. ``

Albus thought that was probably a skillful idea. She was the contender, 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 prissy enough. Of course of instruction it was punishing to secern since she had n't said much. And she certainly was pretty. Albus could n't deny that. Linda was n't surrounded by half the manly population of Gryffindor every evening for nothing.

`` Oh, the inaugural Hogsmeade visit 's on October 27th, '' Albus said, suddenly remembering the understanding he had gone to see blush wine in the first off place, `` Followed by a Halloween party in the Great Hall. ``

`` That sounds like fun, '' rose wine grinned, `` And maybe Linda will want to go with us. ``

`` And it 's a costume party, '' Albus told her.

`` This could get interesting, '' rosebush said.

******

Albus did n't take in a clue as to when he 'd actually let fourth dimension to fancy out his costume for the Halloween political party. John thought it would be coolheaded if their mathematical group 's costumes coordinated, but that was the last matter on Albus 's mind.

The weekend seemed to literally fly by for Albus, meaning he was on the Quidditch pitch to a greater extent than he was off it. He had heard tale about Wood 's ruthlessness when it comes to practice from his dad and similar level about Teddy from his older first cousin. Having the two of them captain one squad seemed to produce pattern that lasted nearly five hours, with little fault every so often. Albus would never again complain about Empire State of the South 's length of practices.

Albus had a fleeting sentiment that since he was a reserve thespian, he would n't suffer to practice as practically as everyone else, but woods shot that down during that Saturday 's recitation. He said he saw no reason for the modesty players to be any lupus erythematosus prepared for the upcoming match than the veritable players.

It was n't that Albus did n't bask Quidditch practice. He did, and very much so. He loved Quidditch, but too practically of anything could run a person down.

Albus spent a lot of his Sunday on the Quidditch pitch as well, in the middle of a souse rain. Georgia had scheduled Gryffindor Quidditch practice that day and she flat out refused to scrub due to rain down. James had asked. He was even more run down than Albus, since either Teddy or Tyler were constantly training the two searcher during Hogwarts Quidditch practice.

Albus returned to Gryffindor pillar after eating a late dinner party with the Gryffindor team Sunday eventide, realizing he had no mind what his friends had spent the weekend doing. He had seen them on social function, but most of his free 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 crowded common way. He saw rosebush, Amanda, and Linda at one tabular array, but his other supporter were no where in sight. The girls looked very absorbed in their prep, so Albus decided to go check the Marauder 's Den for his other friends.

By the meter Albus made it to the predator 's Den, he felt ready for a near dozen hour sleep. Unfortunately, he still had plenty of preparation to do. Albus sighed to himself and opened the door to the room. He paused in the entranceway, surprised to see that Matt was the only one there.

`` Hey, lusterlessness, '' Albus said as he sat down at the table.

`` Oh, hi Albus, '' matte looked up and smiled, `` I was wondering when you 'd point up. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said wryly, `` I never thought Peach State would end practice session. ``

`` shuffle me glad I 'm not on the Quidditch team, '' Matt commented.

`` Where are can and Kaden ? ``

`` Detention, again, '' Matt smirked.

`` What did they do this sentence ? '' Albus groaned. John and Kaden had been earning quite a few detention every week. Albus was quite glad they were n't involving him in their pranks, since he had no available time in his agenda for detention.

`` They were levitating bowl of toilet paper around the corridors and charming them to hit people in the mind yesterday, '' Matt explained, `` I think you were at Quidditch practice. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus laughed, `` Wonder what they 're in for this time. ``

`` No idea, '' Matt 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 short confused. He still did n't quite understand why mat 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 Aussie educatee were older and Matt would n't really have to avert them.

`` John said Rose is actually trying to become acquaintance with Linda. ``

`` She is, '' Albus confirmed, `` She 's finally realized that it 's pointless to try and contend with Linda. ``

`` I guess that 's good, '' Matt shrugged.

King John and Kaden burst into the room a shortstop while later, successfully ending the conversation about rose and Linda. Both of them were freely cursing Filch, who had made them clean the ingress hallway without legerdemain. Once they finally seemed to run out of whammy, all four boys settled into doing their homework and no one brought up the issue of Linda again. Albus still thought it was odd how lustrelessness seemed to have taken a disfavour to her, although Linda herself was rather odd, in Albus 's opinion.

Rose and Amanda joined Linda at her table during Transfiguration the following day. Linda had arrived before them, as always, and did n't look to notice or care that rose wine and Amanda sat on either face of her.

The Saami thing happened in doubling Potions after lunch. rosiness, Amanda, and Linda even worked together on that day 's potion. Slughorn had decided to present up on the inter-house couple mind of the old year, which Albus was very thankful for. Linda had previously worked alone on her potions because there was an odd number of people in the class, but Slughorn did n't object to all three fille working together. In fact, he seemed thrilled that the two smartest people in the class were now working with each other.

`` Ah, yes ! '' Slughorn exclaimed excitedly as he peered into their cauldron, `` Your potion is turning just the right shadowiness of green. ``

Albus looked up from his and Matt 's slightly brown potion and saw Slughorn gently stirring the female child'cauldron.

`` Ours is better, '' Malfoy muttered from behind Albus. He was working with Helen Maria Fiske Hunt Jackson Limbert, Albus 's partner from the premature class. Malfoy and Limbert were easily the two best Slytherin potion-brewers in the class.

Albus turned around and looked at Malfoy 's caldron. It was indeed the compensate shade of green.

`` And what are you looking at, Potter ? '' Malfoy asked, `` Jealous that I 'm Limbert 's partner now ? I doubt your potions grade will be be that near with Eckerton as your partner. ``

`` At to the lowest degree I 'm partnering with him for a reason other than trying to get a decent grade, '' Albus glowered at him.

`` Yeah, well ... '' Malfoy 's voice trailed off.

Albus smirked to himself and turned back around, happy that Malfoy could n't amount up with a in force comeback.

At the end of the class, Slughorn announced that Rose, Amanda, and Linda 's potion had been the secure, much to Malfoy 's dismay.

`` You 'd meliorate watch out at the Dueling Tournament, '' Malfoy seethed as they left the room.

`` We 're on the Saame squad, Malfoy, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't talking to you, '' Malfoy turned and glared at rosebush, Amanda, and Linda.

`` Is that a threat, Malfoy ? '' John asked loudly.

`` I think you can figure that out for yourself, Brickston, '' Malfoy said as he turned in the direction of the Slytherin common way, flanked by Limbert and Goyle.

`` He 's just jealous, '' rosebush muttered as they made their way out of the dungeons.

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` But he 's a good dueler, much as I hate to intromit it. ``

`` fortune are, I wo n't even duel him, Albus, '' rose sighed, `` And even if I do, there 's only so many turn he 's allowed to use. ``

Albus did n't bother reminding Rose about the Slytherin who used a forbidden torment on Matt last twelvemonth. Albus was kind of apprehensive about one of his Friend having to duel Malfoy. Malfoy was the only if one Albus had ever dueled and did n't manage to beat. And Albus had beaten scholarly person who were two years older than he was.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome the great unwashed who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` All right, we need to come up with a good costume thought, '' John announced the following Sat as he flew poorly made sheepskin airplanes around the predator 's Den.

`` Definitely, '' Kaden agreed as his a lot better parchment airplane flew gracefully over St. John 's promontory and landed softly on the couch.

`` Anyone got any musical theme ? '' lusterlessness asked.

`` Have n't even thought about it, '' Albus muttered as he tried not to go anymore muscles than he had to. He just completed a four minute Hogwarts Quidditch pattern, which mainly focused on dodging Bludgers. Unfortunately, Albus had n't dodged them all.

`` You should go see Madam Pomfrey, '' Matt told him.

`` I 've already been there twice this week, '' Albus groaned, `` If this keeps up, I 'll break your record. I 'm o.k., I just need sleep. Sakartvelo canceled pattern 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 Gospel According to John. St. John the Apostle looked quite excited by this idea. Albus had to admit that it was a pretty good idea. He could stick on false antlers to his chief. Or see if one of his older cousins could transmogrify some onto his head.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden shouted excitedly.

`` I like it, '' Albus grinned.

`` No bloody way, '' lusterlessness said flatly, `` I am not dressing up as a wolfman in front of the intact schooltime. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. No, there was definitely no way Matt could do that.

`` Oh, right, '' John sighed, `` Sorry, had n't thought about that. ``

`` How about we just coiffure up as the Marauders in their man forms ? '' Albus suggested. All he 'd sustain to do is get a yoke of round black glasses and he 'd be set.

`` I do n't know ... '' 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 mass will just think we dressed up as them because of Albus, '' John Lackland 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 ? '' St. John replied.

`` Yeah, but still ... '' matte 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 conformation. ``

That Albus could definitely see. `` Ok, so I guess we 're not doing the marauder matter. ``

`` Too bad, '' John sighed, `` Would 've been sang-froid. ``

`` Says the bloke who would n't deliver to dress up as a betrayer, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` And we 're back to square one, '' Albus said, `` Any former ideas ? ``

`` The histrion from Puddlemere United ? '' John suggested after a few minutes. `` You know, if blush wine, Amanda, and Linda joined us, we 'd sustain enough people to be the entire team. ``

`` Why not the cannon ? '' Matt asked.

`` Because they 're awful, '' John groaned.

`` Are not, '' lusterlessness refuted.

`` Are to, '' John said, `` Let 's be Puddlemere. ``

`` shank, '' Matt said adamantly.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` Who ? '' can and Matt said at the same time.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden repeated, `` Football squad. ``

Both lav and flatness groaned. `` Puddlemere, '' trick said once again.

`` Cannons. ``

`` Manchester. ''

`` Puddlemere. ``

`` None of them ! '' Albus shouted. He was already irritable due to his aching brawn and fatigue from Quidditch recitation. The last affair he wanted to do was mind to his Quaker squabble about Quidditch and football teams.

`` Well, have you got any other theme ? '' whoremaster asked.

`` Actually, yeah, '' Albus replied. mat 's acknowledgment of not wanting to tog up as a werewolf had sparked an idea. Albus had been mulling it over while his protagonist argued about Quidditch teams.

`` What is it ? '' Matt asked.

`` fountainhead, I kind of view it would be neat to use Muggle costumes, '' Albus said, `` You know, we can dress up as affair Muggles usually dress up as on Halloween. ``

matte, John, and Kaden stared at Albus for a few moments. Albus shrugged. He had thought it was a dear mind, but maybe his fatigue was clouding his thinking. Then, all three of his friends broke out in huge grins.

`` That 's bright ! '' Kaden shouted, `` No one else will call back of it ! ``

`` Yeah, '' privy agreed, `` We 'll be the alone ace at the party with Muggle costumes. ``

`` As long as I do n't give to dress up as a werewolf, I 'm alright with it, '' matte said.

Albus grinned. `` Good. Kaden, what are some classic Muggle costumes ? ``

`` Ghosts, enchantress, lamia, skeleton in the closet, mummies, '' Kaden rattled off, `` Oh, and snake god. Frankenstein's monster, too. ``

Albus had no idea who Frankenstein was and he was n't in the climate to listen to Kaden explain it, but the other ideas were good. `` Who wants to be what ? '' Albus asked.

`` matte should be a lamia, '' Kaden grinned.

`` Why 's that ? '' Albus asked.

`` Vampires and lycanthrope are mortal foe, '' Kaden explained, `` At least in the Muggle world. ``

`` In this reality, too, '' Matt 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 question is, how do I make myself transparent. ``

`` Aw, no ! '' Kaden sighed, `` When Muggles dress as ghostwriter, they just put a Andrew D. White sheet with eye fix over themselves. That 's what Muggles think ghosts are. White. ``

`` Oh, that makes things easy, '' lustrelessness laughed, `` But seriously ? ``

`` Yep, '' Kaden laughed, `` Caucasian sheets. Now, what about the balance of us ? ``

A half an 60 minutes later, everyone had settled on what they were going to arrange up as. With Kaden 's assistant, that is. Albus, Matt, and John really had no idea as to what Muggles wore when they dressed up for Halloween. John insisted on being a vampire, much to mat 's disgust. However, John was going to be a classic Muggle lamia. The ugly, waxy, blood-stained lips, turn into a bat case of lamia that Muggles thought of when they heard the word 'vampire'. Albus did n't know much about vampires, but he knew they were n't completely like the ones Muggles thought of.

Kaden was going to tog up as a mama, which was a very simple costume. All he 'd have to do was obtain a bunch of cartoon strip of white cloth. Albus said he 'd plunk some up in Hogsmeade.

Albus was going to be a skeleton, which was the most difficult of all the costumes. He was going to buy a grim long-sleeve tee shirt and a dyad of black pants and then paint on pearl in white blusher. He was hoping Amanda would be able to avail with it. She was the sole one in their chemical group who had any artistic talent.

`` Maybe the female child can be witches, '' Kaden suggested.

`` They are witches, '' John smirked.

`` You know what I mean, '' Kaden sighed.

`` I know, '' John grinned, `` Hey, Albus, pinch ! ``

Albus snapped his eye open just in time to see a Quaffle seminal fluid sailplaning across the room. It hit him right in the stomach before he had a prospect to hitch it.

`` Oh, ow ! '' Albus groaned and curled up, `` That 's where I got hit with a Bludger ! ``

`` Brilliant, John, '' lusterlessness sighed, `` Are you ok, Albus ? ``

Albus squeezed his center 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 ? '' trick asked worriedly, `` merlin, I 'm blue. I did n't mean 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, '' lusterlessness announced. He walked over to Albus and helped him off the couch. `` C'mon. ``

Albus nodded. There was no point in objecting. He knew he had to go. But honestly, three times in one week seemed excessive.

The Hospital Wing was empty when Albus stumbled inside, being supported by Matt and John, a little while later. ma'am Pomfrey came out of her spot when she heard the door open. She saw who it was and threw her hands up in the air.

`` You again ! '' she groaned, `` Let me guess. Quidditch ? ``

Albus nodded and collapsed onto the near bed.

`` Well, what did you spite this meter ? '' the entertain asked.

`` Bludger in the tum, '' Albus replied, not bothering to mention that privy hit him with a Quaffle as well.

gentlewoman Pomfrey clucked her spit and waved her wand over Albus. `` Broken rib. That 's the endorsement 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 rest period of his muscles still ached, though, and he wanted nothing more than to shine asleep right there.

brothel keeper Pomfrey returned a few minutes later and force a potion into Albus 's hands. 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 indicate with. Not that he really felt like arguing anyway. He was just too exhausted.

Madam Pomfrey turned to matt, King John, and Kaden. `` You lot can return to Gryffindor. Albus needs to rest. ``

Albus 's friends said honorable dark and then left the room.

`` I 'll be speaking with prof Kendrick, '' Madam Pomfrey muttered to herself, `` Honestly, what was he thinking ? Twice the measure of Quidditch ? Twice the amount of injuries is what I say ! ``

Albus did n't throw the faintest idea as to what lady 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 daytime. One flavour at the clock told him why. He had slept over dozen time of day. It was just after eleven o'clock. Two hours until the Dueling Tournament. Albus pulled the blanket off and started to get up.

`` Where do you think you 're going ? '' dame Pomfrey appeared at his bed.

`` Er, the rough-cut room ? '' Albus slowly sat back down, `` The Dueling tourney is in two minute. ``

`` Dueling ? You think I 'm going to let you duel ? '' Madam Pomfrey demanded.

`` Well, yeah, '' Albus muttered. Come to consider of it, he actually was n't surprised that the nursemaid was n't going to let him duel.

`` Definitely not ! '' she exclaimed, `` You 're spending the day in bed ! ``

`` seed on ! '' Albus groaned, `` please ? '' He had to duel. He was practically the dear on his squad. What would Malfoy say when he did n't prove up ?

`` I wo n't have it ! '' brothel keeper Pomfrey said, `` You were beat on your groundwork finish Night ! You 're going to repose today ! ``

Albus groaned in defeat. He was going to drop the starting time Dueling tourney of the year, because of a Quidditch injury. His two dearie things to do were now conflicting with each other.

Madam Pomfrey brought a tray of breakfast, or maybe it should have been lunch, 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 tournament ? He felt amercement now.

mat, St. John, Kaden, Amanda, rose, and for some grounds, Linda, burst into the Hospital Wing just as Albus was finishing up his food. Madam Pomfrey looked a bit taken aback at the amount of visitors, but she did n't say anything.

`` Albus ! '' John the Divine shouted, `` Dueling 's in an time of day. You going to be getting out of here soon ? ``

`` She wo n't let me go, '' Albus muttered.

`` What ? '' John exclaimed, `` Why not ? ``

`` She says I need to rest, '' Albus explained.

`` Honestly, it would possess surprised me if she did let you go, '' mat commented.

`` I 'll convince her, Albus, '' John 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 initiative tournament, '' lav pointed out.

`` I would n't care if it was Merlin 's get-go tournament, I 'm not letting Albus go. ``

`` Please ? '' can begged.

`` No, '' she said, `` And if you do n't halt contestation, I 'll lay down you get out. ``

John sighed and walked glumly back to Albus 's bed. `` Sorry, '' he muttered, `` And this was sort of my geological fault since I threw that Quaffle at you. ``

`` No it was n't, '' Albus assured him, `` A Quaffle would n't stimulate broke my ribs. It was that Bludger from Quidditch practice. ``

`` But still ... '' John said.

Albus 's booster remained in the Hospital Wing until it was time for them to go to the Dueling tournament. It was form of tense, and Albus could only attribute this to the fact that Linda was there. It was foreign how somebody who never said a word could induce the residue of Albus 's friends to stay restrained as well.

After his protagonist left, Albus was filled with boredom. The hospital extension really was a boring stead, especially when you were n't actually sick or injured. Albus began to count the cracks on the roof, but lost path after 467.

It was n't until after the tournament was over that dame Pomfrey actually let Albus leave. He figured she had n't let him leave earliest 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 ma'am Pomfrey that he would n't recreate Quidditch that day. He ran as fast as he could down to the dueling bedchamber, hoping that the tournament was still going on.

Unfortunately, students were already streaming out of the way chattering excitedly about the tournament. Albus sighed dejectedly and slumped against the rampart, where he waited for his friends.

`` Hey, Albus, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, hey, matte, '' Albus replied, `` Who won ? ``

`` My team. No thanks to me, of row. ``

`` Who 'd Malfoy duel ? '' Albus asked, thinking of his threat to blush wine and Amanda.

`` Some Slytherin minute year and a Ravenclaw fourth year, '' Matt answered.

Albus nodded, relieved that he had n't dueled either rose wine or Amanda.

`` Albus ! '' someone shouted excitedly.

Albus turned around and saw Kaden with a huge smiling on his facial expression. John Lackland was standing next to him, looking equally happy.

`` Hey, John, Kaden, '' Albus smiled.

`` I won one of my affaire d'honneur ! '' Kaden announced, `` I dueled a Ravenclaw and I actually beat him ! ``

`` That 's great, '' Albus told him, still wishing that he had gotten to wash up a Ravenclaw. Or a Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Gryffindor.

`` But he was horribly beaten in his second affaire d'honneur, '' lav laughed.

`` At least I won one of them, '' Kaden smirked.

`` Yeah, yeah, '' John muttered.

`` Did you lose both ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, '' Saint John the Apostle sighed.

The boy set off for Gryffindor pillar, figuring they 'd pick up up with the fille once they were up there. Albus was eager to see Amanda because he wanted to have sex how his team had done.

Amanda, Rose, and Linda were talking about the tournament when Albus entered the common room. He was shocked to see that Linda was actually talking. Although, she immediately stopped when Albus and the former boy showed up.

Apparently Albus 's team had came in minute place. Amanda said they were only two points behind Matt 's team, which caused Albus to bid even more that he had been there. He could give birth easily gotten the two dot they needed. Amanda said that Malfoy thought the same thing, because he shouted angrily about Albus not being there once they announced the success. Albus was kind of amused by this. He never thought Malfoy would ever be lamenting Albus 's absence from anything.

The chemical group, including Linda, spent the remainder of the afternoon in the common way. It was form of odd, though. Linda did n't say a parole, yet Rose and Amanda tried to employ her in every conversation. Matt remained almost completely dampen, whispering quietly so only Albus and privy could hear what he was saying. Kaden of course did n't notice any of this and talked as loudly as he usually did. It did n't really help that various male child kept coming up to Linda and asking her useless questions about Australia and Quidditch and various other topics. Linda gave them very short, quiet answers. trick paid enraptured attending to every little thing she said.

`` So, '' Rose began, `` First Quidditch equal in a hebdomad. Australia versus New York. Are you nervous, Linda ? ``

Albus stared at Rose. He could n't think the go time Rose actually brought up Quidditch in a conversation.

`` A bit, '' Linda muttered, not looking up.

`` fountainhead, I hope you win, '' blush wine 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 squad would be able to measure both Australia and New York 's accomplishment before they played either squad. That was definitely well for strategy. Then when they actually played, they 'd be able to use the squad 's failing to their advantage. Mrs. Henry Wood had given them specific directions to look for weakness in both teams. Of track, opportunity are Albus would n't be playing in the first Hogwarts match, or really any of the matches.

Albus walked down to dinner with his Quaker and Linda sat in between rosiness and Amanda. He glanced absentmindedly at the faculty mesa as he scooped mashed Solanum tuberosum onto his photographic plate and noticed a new wizard talking with the headmaster from Australia. He was a rather short man, compared to Killigan, and his face seemed to give absolutely no emotion on it. His dirty blonde hair sat two-dimensional on his drumhead and fell over his eyes. He was wearing plain black robes.

`` I wonder who that fella is, '' Albus said to John as he pointed at the faculty table.

`` Dunno, '' John shrugged, not really seeming interested.

Rose turned to look at him. `` Probably some bloke from Australia, I 'd be guessing. I imagine a few people from Australia and New York will impose 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 ? '' Rose asked.

`` No, '' Linda whispered.

Albus shrugged and returned to his dinner. It seemed like he was really the solitary one interested in the unfamiliar wizard at the staff board. Was he really only there to see the tournament ? The Quidditch match was n't for another hebdomad, so why was he there already ? Would he really be spending the whole week at Hogwarts ?

Kendrick stood up after dinner started to wander down. Albus immediately stopped eating and paid attention. Maybe he was going to tell everyone who the unusual wizard was.

`` If I could have your tending for just one present moment, '' Kendrick announced, `` Thank you. When I first began to organize this competition, I always thought we would go forward with the usual Hogwarts Quidditch Cup tournament like common, but I did n't remember about what affect it would have on the players who would play on both their business firm squad and the Hogwarts team. ``

Albus had a feeling he knew where this was going and it had everything to do with that talk gentlewoman Pomfrey said she was going to birth with Kendrick. Albus sank downhearted in his seat and tried not to look at anyone.

`` It 's come to my attention that playing on two Quidditch teams at once is much more work than could consume been anticipated. Therefore, I have decided to cancel the Quidditch Cup tourney for this yr only, while the tournament is going on. ``

`` What ? ! '' Over half the room erupted in assorted outcry and mockery. Albus sank even down in his seat. This was all his shift. He was the one who had been to the Hospital annexe so many times that week. He had gotten Quidditch canceled for the whole school.

`` Quiet down, '' Kendrick shouted, `` It 's what 's C. H. Best for the role player. Plus, it 's been rather tight to squeeze in so many practices for so many teams. We only have one Quidditch lurch. With four less squad to accommodate, it 'll be well-off to schedule practice session. This is my concluding word on the subject. Remember that we still have excellent Quidditch going on this year. ``

`` I should n't consume gone to see ma'am Pomfrey stopping point night, '' Albus muttered.

`` Albus, this is n't your fault, '' Rose assured him, `` You 're not the only one who 's been spite numerous times. ``

That was on-key. Pretty practically everyone on the Hogwarts team had been to see madam Pomfrey at least once a workweek since the start of full term. So maybe it was n't all his error. Plus, there was the scheduling conflicts on the pitch. Albus had witnessed a few fights between the house captains that certainly could n't be good for teamwork on the Hogwarts team.

Albus had to admit that life history would be a lot easier without Gryffindor team recitation. Now he would only be practicing Quidditch twice a week. Well, Wood would probably increase it to three times now that Kendrick canceled the house 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 team was sitting together in the uncouth elbow room when Albus returned. Georgia immediately flagged him over.

`` I still do n't like it, '' Fred sighed, `` Now I do n't get to play at all this class. ``

`` Yeah, well I do n't get to play for Gryffindor in my seventh class, but it really is for the best, '' Georgia said.

`` I 'll say, '' James River agreed, `` I 'm already behind on preparation and it 's only October. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` Just cogitate, Fred, '' heather mixture began, `` Next twelvemonth, one of us will be maitre d'hotel. ``

`` It 'll be me, '' Fred announced.

`` Really ? '' Heather raised an eyebrow.

`` Yeah, Gryffindor 's had two girl captains recently. It 's clock time for another feller. ``

heather rolled her centre. `` Not if I 'm a effective loss leader. ``

`` What makes you think it 'll be either of you ? '' Omar Nelson Bradley asked, `` It might be Ryan or I. We 'll be sixth class. They do n't always choose seventh years. ``

`` Maybe, '' Fred replied, `` I 'm still going to miss it, though. ``

`` We could play pick-up matches on the weekends, '' Ryan suggested.

`` I guess, '' Fred sighed.

Albus remained serenity for the sleep of the time with the team. Although he did n't blame himself for the cancellation of household Quidditch, he felt shamefaced that he was relieved it was canceled. But almost of the team was far from well-chosen 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 guys are amazing !

Frankenstien belongs to The Virgin Shelley.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was amazed at how much duplicate prison term he had now that he did not have to go to Gryffindor Quidditch practice. During the next calendar week, he got all his homework done on fourth dimension and got a decent amount of sleep. Plus, he made fewer head trip to the hospital offstage, which he attributed to having more sleep.

Classes were going well. Albus was very glad they had moved onto more energize puppet in concern of Magical brute. They were n't up to hippogriffs or thestrals, but nifflers were certainly entertaining. Despite the rather dull get-go, Care of Magical creature was quickly becoming one of Albus 's favorite classes. He seemed to have an phylogenetic relation for the variety of animate being they learned about ; something Hagrid was warm to notice.

Arithmancy was turning out to be variety of dry, but Albus was just happy he was n't taking Divination. Even John was beginning to get sap of making up pretender predictions for Trelawney. 'What 's the point ?'he had shouted out angrily one night as they were working on homework. Albus was n't able to suppress his grin at that, which earned him a Divination book to the head when John saw Albus 's smirk.

Defense Against the Dark artistry continued to be the foreign class Albus had ever attended. He was beginning to think he was enjoying it, but still was n't sure. He liked the class, but was n't sure if he liked Balladanis himself.

The professor continued to be a whodunit to students of all years. Hours were spent debating his background in the common room. He seemed to take peak away equally from each house, 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 numerate on one hand the number of genuine lecture he had had in that category. nearly all the moral were practical, but not in the same way Harry had done them. Harry 's method acting had been very caring and all about trying. Balladanis 's methods were Thomas More harsh and focused on succeeder. He insisted that everyone succeed and refused to let anyone stop until they did, even if it meant coming in for spare help.

The measure of educatee going in for excess help was increasing quickly. mat was no longer seen as weak or odd for having to go in for extra help. Nearly half of Albus 's class was spending extra clock time with Balladanis at least once a week. The prof still had n't let lustrelessness stop going.

`` bandstand up ! '' Balladanis barked at Albus 's class.

These two discussion 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 motion on ! '' he shouted, `` Unless you think your playscript will round you. hold can only get you so far. You need to practice ! ``

The socio-economic class spent nearly an hour practicing the go to repel grindylows and once the bell rang, Balladanis announced that they 'd be practicing on genuine grindylows in the succeeding class.

`` Brickston ! '' Balladanis announced, `` You 'll be coming in for redundant help tomorrow Nox. You may fare the same meter Eckerton does. ``

Albus did n't think John had done that bad with the spell. It had taken him a piece, but by the end of the socio-economic class he had managed it. Albus was beginning to imagine that by the end of the class, everyone would be going in for spare help.

`` He 's certifiably insane, '' Saint John the Apostle muttered as they walked to potions after they left the vindication classroom.

`` well, I 'm kind of glad you 're going in for assist, '' Matt said, `` You can keep Amanda and I caller. ``

`` That 's nearly all of us going in for supporter, '' rosebush commented, `` Just Al and Linda and I. ``

Kaden had been going for help nearly as long as Matt had. Amanda had started a few 24-hour interval ago.

`` Albus wo n't ever receive to go, '' Matt said, `` He 's too good at defence force. ``

`` I 'm not that great at it, '' Albus muttered quietly. Sure, he managed all the magical spell, but it 's not like they were very advanced.

******

`` What do you think Balladanis did before he taught here ? '' Kaden mused late the succeeding day.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I think he was an Auror, '' John said, `` I mean, he obviously hates the darkness artwork. ``

`` No, '' Albus shook his straits, `` My dad would have mentioned that. ``

`` Maybe he was a strange Auror, '' lavatory suggested.

`` But he sounds British, '' Matt pointed out.

`` So do you, for the about part, but you 're from Australia, '' privy countered.

`` Really ? I always thought I sounded Aussie. ``

`` You do a bit. But your parents sound more Australian than you do. Same with Amy, '' Albus told him.

`` Oh, '' Matt shrugged, `` So I guess he could be foreign. ``

`` Why did he come teach here, then ? '' Albus asked.

No one had an result to that. Albus was really curious to what the answer was, but it 's not like he could actually ask the professor. In fact, the approximation of being unparalleled with Balladanis kind of scared him. He was really happy he did n't have to see the professor outside of class.

The get-go Inter-School Dueling tournament was scheduled to take shoes the adjacent day. The entire school was buzzing about it. It was the outset big contention between the three schools. Albus did n't fuck a unhurt lot of people who were on the Hogwarts Dueling Team. Just his cousin, Fred. Despite this, he was still excited. Albus absolutely loved dueling and wished he was old enough to be on the shoal team.

The tournament was taking place in the Great Hall, since the dueling sleeping accommodation was much too diminished to fit the entire schoolhouse. Albus walked with his friends into the elbow room and saw that all the tables had disappeared. They were replaced with raised sales booth, sort of like the Quidditch rake. Albus found seats towards the front and waited impatiently for the tournament to begin.

The dueling area was a raised weapons platform in front of the stands. On the other side of it was a minor set of sales booth, in which all the teachers were filing into. The secret wizard who had been seen talking to Killigan, but never introduced, was sitting following to the Australian headmaster, but neither of them were talking. Both wore identical looking at of determination mingled with fascination. A Wiccan Albus did n't greet was seated following to Henry M. 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 workweek was talking with Albus 's Uncle Walker 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 students, instructor, and various former looker were seated, Professor Kendrick stood up and everyone quieted down.

`` Welcome, students, faculty, and visitant to the offset Dueling tourney between Hogwarts, the Australian School of black magic, and the Adirondack Academy of trick. All three schooling will duel this afternoon. Each school 's team has five scholar and each student will participate in two duels. Whichever student wins the duel gets a decimal point for their schooling. The school with the most distributor point will win. But keep in mind that this is just the beginning of many tournament that will take place during this year. Now, here are the team. '' Kendrick gestured to a room access on the side of the room.

The door opened and Professor Longbottom led the Hogwarts team into the room. The other two schools'teams followed and Albus did n't know either of their professor. He had n't really thought about the other teams'captains before. He kind of cipher they had them, but had n't seen them before. He guessed they just came to Hogwarts for drill. They must have set up some kind of peculiar floo connection with the school.

The tourney commenced in a lot the same way the junior Dueling night club had, except only one duel took situation at a time. The piece used were much more bring forward, too. The spell that Slytherin had used on lustrelessness during the previous years paled in comparison to the 1 being used by the older educatee. Albus was absolutely fascinated. He paid rapt attention and wished that he could learn 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 endure duel was over.

prof Kendrick tallied the dot and then rose once again. `` Thank you everyone. Each and every student performed well today. However, this is a tournament and I must declare a winner. And that succeeder is the Adirondack Academy of conjuration. Congratulations to them ! ``

There was a pocket-size total of loud hand clapping from the New Yorkers who were in the audience, as well as some civil clapping from everyone else. Albus sighed and clapped politely along with to the highest degree of his fellow students.

`` wellspring, it 's only the inaugural tournament, '' flatness said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Plus there 's Quidditch. ``

`` And we 've got a brilliant Quidditch squad ! '' Saint John the Apostle grinned as he stood up, `` Now we 've just got to hope that one of those other Chasers disruption something so Albus can play next week. ``

`` john ! '' rosebush scolded.

`` I 'm only kidding, '' John shrugged, `` Sort of. ``

`` We could just give one of them the orangish end of a puking troche, '' Kaden suggested, `` And not move over them the purple one-half. ``

`` Would n't make, '' John sighed, `` lady Pomfrey recognizes those thing now. ``

`` I know I probably wo n't get to spiel, '' Albus said as they left the room, `` You do n't need to land yourselves in detainment to get me a berth 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 finical practice had been goal scoring, so Albus had worked hard the total two time of day. At to the lowest degree the focus had n't been on dodging Bludgers. He yawned, grabbed his bag and headed out of the common room. He walked slowly to the vulture 's Den, thinking he could squeeze a bit of homework 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 flying behind her, running down the corridor towards him. `` Rose ? ``

`` Albus ! '' rosiness panted, `` I saw you leave the common room. ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus shrugged. He usually did his prep in the marauder 's Den since it was quieter and well-to-do to concentrate.

`` I wanted to babble to you, '' rose wine said.

`` Ok, '' Albus said as he located the paw mark on the opposite wall, `` We can utter in here. ``

`` Actually, '' Rose said, `` I form of wanted to peach to you alone. Are Matt, John the Divine, and Kaden in there ? ``

`` Probably, '' Albus replied. What did blush wine wish to talk about that she did n't require their other Friend to find out ? `` I did n't see them in the common way. ``

`` Well, I 'd rather talk to you alone, low gear, '' rosebush shifted nervously from metrical foot to foot.

Albus looked at her strangely. rosiness rarely ever looked nervous, especially when she was talking to Albus. What could she possibly have to evidence him ?

`` Er, all right, '' Albus said slowly, `` I guess we could find an empty schoolroom or something .... ''

`` Good, '' pink wine nodded and took off down the corridor. Albus ran after her and she found an empty classroom. Albus followed her into it and shut the door behind him. `` What is it ? ``

rose wine paced around the room for a bit, wringing her hands together, before letting out a loud sigh and leaning up against one of the desks. `` It 's about Linda. ``

Albus blinked. Linda ? He barely knew her. What could jump possibly have to say about Linda ? `` Linda ? ``

`` Yes, Linda, '' rose 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 sort of thinking it would be good if she started to produce friends here. You know, like you. And maybe Matt, John, and Kaden. ``

Albus still had no idea why rose wine felt the penury to sing 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 Good Book around him ? Not to remark the fact that flatness did n't appear to like her.

`` Er, why exactly did n't you want Matt, John, and Kaden to hear this ? '' Albus asked, `` You ca n't really wait them to become champion 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 make love was whether Linda could come into the piranha 's Den with us. ``

Albus stared at his cousin. So that was what she wanted to sing about. `` You want Linda to hail into the vulture 's Den ? ``

`` Yes, '' rose nodded, `` She 's in the coarse way with Amanda. Can she ? I 'll go get them right now if you say yes. ``

`` Wait, delay, '' Albus shook his caput, `` It 's not up to me. ``

`` Yes it is ! '' rosiness replied, `` You found that map. It 's yours, so the room is yours. ``

`` No it 's not, '' Albus said, `` It 's Matt, John, and Kaden 's, too. All four of us had to bring to get that map to show up and to find the way. If it were n't for them, it would still be a blank piece of sheepskin. ``

`` But- ''

`` No, Rose, '' Albus said irritably, `` I ca n't just let you fetch random people into the room without asking everyone. ``

Albus and his supporter had n't really thought much about whether they 'd let other citizenry into the room, but Albus knew he could n't do it without talking to them. Letting Rose and Amanda in had been a given, since they helped with it, but Linda certainly had n't helped.

`` I have to talk to Matt, John, and Kaden, '' Albus told her, `` I can spill to them now, if you want. ``

`` All right hand, '' rosebush sighed and stood up.

Neither of the cousins said a word to each other as they walked back to the predator 's Den. Albus was still rather bewildered by this whole thing. First, he had never really talked to his friends about letting other people into the marauder 's Den. He always assumed it would be their secret. He was n't entirely for sure he wanted anyone else in it, no matter what his Friend thought. Second, it was rather out of character for rose to be this spontaneous and demanding. Whether this was due to the increased work load, the sudden competition in class brought on by Linda, or something else entirely, Albus did n't know.

Albus took a thick breathing space as he opened the door to the room and glanced at Rose. She was looking more neural than before. Albus walked into the elbow room and paused. John the Evangelist and Kaden were lounging on the flooring, playing a rather yob game of cheat ( the two of them could turn any board game into something physical ), while their neglected homework sat haphazardly on the tabular array. Matt was paying obscure care to the secret plan while stretched out on the couch. It did n't storm Albus that he was n't doing a great deal, since the full moonshine was the adjacent night. John the Evangelist and Kaden looked up when they heard the door open.

`` Albus ! '' Kaden shouted, `` How was recitation ? ``

`` rose ! '' John grinned, `` I was beginning to think you 'd block about this place. I do n't think I 've seen you here in over a month. ``

`` Hey, whoremonger, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` drill was unspoiled. What have you lot been up to ? ``

`` licking Kaden at cheat, '' Gospel According to John explained.

`` Hey, I beat you once ! '' Kaden countered.

`` Only once, '' John repeated, `` I 've won four games. ``

`` I 'm surprised neither of you have detention tonight, '' Albus smirked.

`` They almost did, '' Matt announced, `` professor Longbottom caught them sneaking into the young woman 's toilet- ''

`` What were you doing in there ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` We were going to put dung bomb in there, '' Kaden explained.

`` Anyway, '' Matt continued, `` Longbottom took ruth on them since they 're already doing so many detentions and only took away detail. ``

`` Professor Longbottom is capital, '' John grinned.

`` I would n't expect him to let you off again, '' matt pointed out.

`` Want to work chess, Rose ? '' whoremonger asked, `` I could use with some real competition. ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden crossed his arms across his pectus, `` I 'm real competition. ``

Albus glanced at rosiness. `` Er, Rose has something she wanted to ask us, '' Albus said quietly.

rose wine glared at Albus. Clearly she wanted him to work up the topic. Albus gave her a quick trill of his head. There was no way he was going to ask. She was the one who wanted Linda there.

`` well, what is it ? '' can asked, `` If it 's about homework, I 'll have you know that I 've already finished most of it. ``

`` It 's not about homework, '' rose sighed and sat down on the end of the sofa that matt was n't occupying.

Albus settled himself into an armchair opposite the couch and waited for his cousin to continue.

rose took a deep breathing place. `` You lot know Amanda and I have sort of go Friend with Linda, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' St. John the Apostle 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 time .... '' her articulation trailed off.

`` well, yeah, because this room is so much amend than the common room, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` I know, '' pink wine sighed, `` And I do miss being with all of you, but at the same time, Linda 's my booster now, too. ``

`` So drop time with all of us, '' John said, `` I 'm certain Linda would be ticket by herself for a few hours a day so you can be here with us. ``

rosebush groaned. `` That was n't what I had in mind. What I want is for all of us to spend time together. As in you lot can get friends with Linda, too. She needs more friends. ``

`` She does n't talk, '' Kaden said.

`` She does when she gets to know you, '' rose wine explained.

`` So what you 're saying, '' John began, `` Is that you want us to check hanging out in this splendid room and go back to the boring vernacular room ? ``

`` No, of course of action not, '' Rose replied, `` I want all of us to hang out here. Linda, too. ``

The room was completely understood. Albus watched his friends'chemical reaction with great interest. Both St. John the Apostle and Kaden gaped at rosiness and then turned to look at Albus. They then turned their brain back to Rose, but did n't say anything. Matt suddenly sat up, oculus broad unresolved, and stared at blush wine with an incredulous face on his face.

nobody said a watchword for what must cause been nearly five minutes. Albus kept looking from Rose to his champion and back. rosebush was looking nervously at everybody in turn and then sending pleading coup d'oeil at Albus. Albus was about to open his mouth, when Matt finally broke the stony silence.

`` No, '' he said. It was hardly more than a rustling, but was very forceful.

`` We have n't let anyone else in, '' whoremaster pointed out, `` Why should Linda be the initiatory ? ``

Kaden turned to Albus. `` What do you imagine, Albus ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` Why not ? '' Rose demanded, `` She 's mine and Amanda 's friend. ``

`` But she 's not our friend, '' Saint John the Apostle said.

`` But she could be ! '' rose insisted.

`` Then we 'll become booster with her before we let her in the room ! '' John replied, `` It 's still our secret. We have n't even differentiate Teddy about it yet. ``

Albus turned and looked at Saint John. He had n't even thought about that. John Lackland had a point. They had n't told shimmy about the way yet. Or his dad. Should n't they see it before other people did ?

`` If anyone has the right to cognise about this room, it 's Teddy and my dad, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Yes, but they are n't here, '' Rose pointed out, `` Come on, why wo n't you let her in ? ``

`` We do n't hump her, '' whoremaster said.

`` She 's got no connections to it, '' Albus said.

`` I like keeping it a occult, '' Kaden said.

`` You could do it her ! '' Rose shouted, `` Then she would make connection to it. And it would still be a mysterious. ``

`` flavour, Rose, '' Matt said loudly, `` We 're not going to let her in ! You ca n't convince us otherwise ! ``

Albus, John, and Kaden turned to look at each other. Albus had never heard Matt conjure his interpreter like that, and certainly not with Rose.

`` And what 's your understanding why she ca n't ? '' Rose asked icily.

Matt glared at her. `` They 're the Sami as Albus, John, and Kaden 's ! ``

`` You just do n't like her ! '' Rose 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 altogether time she 's been here ! ``

`` Neither has she ! '' matt yelled.

`` You lot are so stubborn ! '' Rose huffed, `` I just do n't get why you wo n't let her- ''

`` Do you really want to know why ? '' Matt raised his voice even louder, `` I honestly would n't suppose I 'd have to tell you ! You 're ache ! This is the one place in the palace that nobody else knows about ! It 's the only home I can go and get some peace and quiet and not birth to worry about anyone else barging in ! The simply citizenry who know about it already do it 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 lull of this billet. And it was quiet before you came in here demanding that we let a witch we hardly know into it ! ``

lusterlessness leaned back against the arm of the sofa and squeezed his eye shut as he rubbed his temple.

Albus stared in jounce at John and Kaden. Albus had never seen Matt shout at someone like that. for sure, he got a bit shortly with people around the fully moon, but had never had a matured row like this.

`` well, maybe if you become friends with Linda, you 'll order her what you are, '' pink wine said. She looked quite taken aback that Matt had shouted at her corresponding that.

`` Are you bloody insane ? ! '' flatness yelled, causing him to flinch even more. Albus had a feeling he was giving himself a headache.

`` You told us, '' rose said.

`` That 's different, '' Matt shook his oral sex, `` You figured it out on your own. ``

`` What if we had n't ? ``

`` I would n't have told you, '' flatness muttered, `` And Linda 's going back to Australia after this twelvemonth, so there really would n't be a full stop. ``

`` You know, since she 's from Australia, she might already know, '' Rose pointed out, `` You did say that the entire country found out shortly before you moved. ``

That was the legal injury thing to say. Albus knew she was going to say it just moments before she finished and he tried to shake his head to tell her to end, but she either did n't notice or did n't desire to stop.

All the color drained from flatness 's facial expression and with it nigh of the anger. He merely looked a little scare off now.

`` You think I have n't thought about that ? '' he asked quietly, `` Why do you remember I was n't thrilled about this whole tournament thing ? Why do you call up I try to avoid anyone from Australia ? I mean, it was five years ago, so I really hope almost people have forgotten about it, but all it would take was one of them to remember and soon the whole school would know. ``

`` I doubt Linda would tell anyone, if she did know, '' Rose said.

`` Yeah, because she does n't talk, '' Kaden laughed.

farewell it to Kaden to find wittiness in this situation, Albus thought. He could n't facilitate but grin at his cousin 's statement himself.

`` Could you at least think about it ? '' rose asked.

`` No, '' mat raised his voice again, `` Do n't you get it ? I do n't want to lay on the line anyone else finding out. I do n't want this to be a repetition of what happened in Commonwealth of Australia. I like it here. I do n't desire to move again. So I 'm not going to transfer my idea. I 'm going to bed. ``

Matt got up off the couch and walked slowly over to his bed and rammed the drape shut behind him.

Albus exchanged coup d'oeil with John and Kaden, completely at a loss as to what to say. Rose got up off the lounge a moment later and left the elbow room without another word. Albus, John the Divine, and Kaden quietly began to influence on their prep, but the remainder of the eve was very subdued. Albus stared at his Herbology book, but could n't possibly concentrate on it after the row his first cousin and best Quaker had just had.


A/N : Thanks to my genus 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 yr. Big congratulations to Dancer of Starlight for winning as well, during her first year of the regular NaNo program ! Now it 's back to fan fic for the sentence being.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus 's radical of friends had never been torn apart by a row before. From the moment they met on the train drive over two long time ago, the five of them had been close. During their kickoff year, only one time had any of them had a row. It had only lasted ten minutes. Albus remembered it like it was just yesterday. The night he and John had fought about whether to tell mat they knew he was a werewolf. It had been a very abbreviated row, ending when mat walked in.

Then, just a year ago, Kaden had flew into their group in a mist of hyperactivity and gaudiness. Albus did n't really enumerate the rowing he had shared with his cousin as wrangle within his group of Quaker. Kaden had not been Albus 's supporter then. They reconciled and then became Friend. That was how Albus saw it.

No row had come between them like this one, though. Albus was still in shock about it the following day. If he had had to plunk two of his friends to fight down, he would n't have chosen matt or rose. The two of them seemed least in all likelihood to fight.

Rose did bear a temper. There was no denying that. She and Albus had shared quite a few sibling-like squabbles growing up, but they had grown out of it. rosiness 's temper remained, though. She was stubborn as well. Albus had a lot of experience with that. Once pink wine got an idea 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 reasonableness to get admirer with mortal ?

Matt, on the former hand, did n't seem to give birth an wild bone in his body. This was definitely ironical 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 clip. well-nigh of these occasions were when he was having whispered conversations with his sister. Albus would never stimulate predicted that he would yell at Rose like he had.

Albus had no theme what to await the side by side day. He doubted this was the sort of thing that would just blow over.

It certainly had not blown over, as Albus discovered at breakfast. His group of friends was no longer sitting together. When Albus, lustrelessness, and John entered the Great Hall, they noticed that rose wine, Amanda, and Linda were sitting at one end of the table, while Kaden was a few groundwork down from them. John immediately headed to where Kaden was sitting and Albus and Matt followed. Rose did not seem to observe them pass, nor did Amanda or Linda. There was no doubtfulness in Albus 's head whose side Amanda was on. She was Rose 's in force ally 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 eggs with a bit too often force. Matt looked more tired than anything, but there was a glint of anger in his center. Kaden was at a complete going for word, which happened very rarely. Even he went the unanimous meal without uttering a thing. Albus had no urge to start any conversations either. He was still quite angry with his cousin. The nerve of her to ask if they could let a terminated unknown into the marauder 's Den was unfathomable to him.

The secrecy continued through history of Magic and Transfiguration. Albus sat in between John Lackland and matt during both course of study and glared at the binding of Rose 's nous. She was sitting in between Amanda and Linda at the table in front man of Albus 's during both classes.

Albus paid zero attending during History of Magic. He merely recounted the row over and over again, which only caused him to go more angry. Judging by the look on John 's fount, he had been doing the Sami affair. matte merely slept the intact class, completely unnoticed by professor Binns.

Albus forced himself to pay care and take notes during Transfiguration, although John did not. Matt remained awake during the class, but had a glassed look over his eyes.

It was n't until Care of Magical Creatures that the uncharacteristically recollective quiet dissolved. Matt decided to hop-skip that grade and sleep in the Marauder 's Den instead and Albus could n't blame him. It was a particularly windy and inhuman fall day and Albus shivered as he walked down to Hagrid 's hut with whoremaster. blush wine and Linda had Arithmancy, so they were n't even there. Amanda was, but she stood with Janie, Marina, and Karina for the duration of the class.

`` Wow, '' John said in a low whisper as they sat on the cold, hard ground drawing pictures of the puffskeins they were watching.

He did n't have to say anything else. Albus knew what he was talking about. `` Yeah, '' he muttered.

`` Have you got any mind why blush wine was so exigent about Linda ? '' John asked quietly.

`` She 's stubborn. She always has been, '' Albus replied, `` Once, when we were eight or so, she wanted to go to this sleepover my full cousin Gabriella, Sakartvelo, and ling were having. Her parents said no and she did n't verbalise to them for nearly a calendar week. ``

`` Seriously ? '' John gaped and then smirked, `` Siriusly .... ''

Albus rolled his eyes. `` Yeah, she did. ``

`` Do you think she 'd do that this time ? Not talk to us for a workweek ? ``

`` It would n't surprise me if she did n't talk to us until we let Linda into the way, '' Albus sighed.

`` That 's not going to chance, '' john said.

`` No, it 's not, '' Albus agreed, `` Even if by some chance we decided to let her, there 's no way flatness would. And I think Kaden would just agree to whatever I said. ``

`` Well, I ca n't blame Matt for not wanting her in there, '' John lowered his vocalisation even more, `` He always sleeps there before the you know what. He 's not going to need 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 let to take our own government note in class now, '' John groaned, `` No way is Rose going to let us take over hers anymore. ``

Albus could n't serve but giggle a little at that. Albus could always rely on John to lighten the humor. Either him or Kaden. Albus and Saint John did n't talk much for the difference of the stratum and the brief bit of body fluid died away quickly.

Albus and John the Divine headed straight for the vulture 's Den after class. They passed blush wine on their way there, but she acted like she did n't comment them.

`` You awake ? '' John the Evangelist shouted as they entered the room.

`` I am now, '' matt replied groggily from his bed. A few minute later he got up and laid down on the couch.

`` You do n't expect so proficient, '' John said as he tossed his bag unceremoniously onto the flooring and jumped onto the other end of the couch.

`` You think ? '' matte said sarcastically.

`` No, I mean, you look worsened than usual, '' St. John the Apostle replied.

`` Oh, that 's decent, '' Albus said as he sat down in one of the chairs.

John did have a point, though. Matt was as blanch as he usually was the day before a full moon, but the dark circles under his eyes were more pronounced. His eyes were also more bloodshot, which gave him the look of a someone who had n't slept in days.

`` It 's rightful, '' John shrugged, `` Have n't you been sleeping all day ? ``

Matt sighed and shook his head. `` No. Did n't sleep that practically in conclusion night either. I just ca n't. I keep thinking about what happened yesterday .... The simply rattling sopor I 've gotten was in History of legerdemain. I need a good Binns public lecture to put me to slumber now. ``

Albus did n't think he 'd ever try the phrasal idiom 'good Binns lecture'before. `` Wo n't that crap tonight bad ? '' Albus asked quietly, `` Not sleeping before it ? ``

`` Yeah, of trend it will, '' matt said quietly, `` But I ca n't seduce myself sleep. ``

`` Ask Madam Pomfrey for a potion, '' bathroom suggested.

`` She 'll ask too many doubt, '' flatness said, `` I never have a problem falling asleep before the full lunation. She 'll be suspicious. I do n't require to tell her about the row. ``

matt did n't elaborate anymore about his deficiency of sleep, so Albus and John played a bit of Exploding picnic. matte did n't palpate like playing.

`` Albus ? '' Matt asked after a one-half hour or so.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` Rose would n't, '' Matt paused, `` You know, tell anyone about me, would she ? Because I 've been thinking, she 's the sort of secret keeper for the charm for Kaden, but if she tells someone 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 tempestuous with you, but she would never ever tell anyone that you 're a loup-garou. She knows that it 's your secret to tell. ``

`` But what if she just drop away up ? '' Matt asked anxiously.

Albus tried to see this from matt 's point of opinion. He also reminded himself that Matt was probably sleep deprived and conflate that with how unhinged he always got before the fully moon, he would n't be seeing matter rationally. But the idea of rose wine telling soul that mat was a wolfman 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 hand, '' matt said warily and leaned back on the couch.

Albus exchanged glimpse with John Lackland as Matt 's centre began to glaze over. This was not going to blow over quickly.

******

Albus slept horribly that night. He tossed and turned and stared at the glowing circle the full moon created on the hanging of his bed. Bilius 's indulgent stertor filled the way. Albus was for certain he would n't fall asleep at all that night. He had too much on his mind.

His best friend and his cousin were fighting. The cousin-german he had grown up with, spent all his pre-Hogwarts Day with. His best acquaintance since first year. Albus felt nasty about it. He could recollect of at least twenty things he 'd rather do that get his comfortably champion and his first cousin combat like this. A calendar month 's Charles Frederick Worth of detainment with Filch, for example.

This was different than a little variance, too. John and Rose often fought with each other, but Albus form of thought they liked it. Albus himself sort of love squabbling with James. Matt never fought with any of them, though. And none of them ever really rowed. What if rosiness and Matt never made up ? Albus swallowed hard and stared fixedly at the end of his bed. They had to get up, eventually. But what if they did n't ? A hen-peck vocalism in the backbone of Albus 's head told him it was a hypothesis. He tried to shake it out of his head as he closed his eyes in a vain attempt to get some sleep.

Albus had been hoping Defense Against the wickedness Arts would allow for a much needed outflow from his thoughts of flatness and rosiness never making up. That socio-economic class usually required every bit of Albus 's wit power and he could n't really believe about anything else during it. Unfortunately, Balladanis decided to return one of his rare lectures. Albus 's mind wandered and by the time the course of study was over, he really could n't recollect what Balladanis had lectured about. He had assigned an essay, too, which did n't aid matters.

Slughorn, on the other deal, decided to have a pragmatic lesson even though it was only a ace class. Since mat was in the hospital wing, Albus worked with John and Janie Creevey, Gospel According to John 's usual potions cooperator. He was just glad Slughorn did n't make him ferment with Rose and Amanda. Linda was mysteriously missing, so their group was down to two hoi polloi.

John the Divine sent Albus to go get ingredients 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 previous year. Polite greetings 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 sentence to visit him today. ``

Amanda nodded. `` Um, what about the row ? How is he about that ? ``

`` He 's still angry with Rose, '' Albus muttered.

`` Oh. I was hoping ... '' her part trailed off.

`` How is Rose ? ``

`` Angry, '' Amanda sighed, `` Oh, Albus, I hate this ! I hate not being capable to be with you lot, but I ca n't abandon rose wine. ``

`` I hate it too, '' Albus said quietly. He was sort of surprised that Amanda still wanted to be around them, after they denied Linda access to the room. After all, she was Linda 's booster, too.

`` It 's so stupid, '' she whispered, `` Fighting like this. ``

`` I know, '' Albus said, `` But I do n't think rose wine and matte think it 's stupid. ``

`` What about john and Kaden ? What do they think ? ``

`` John categoric out refuse to let Linda into the elbow room. I do, too, '' he said quickly, `` We 're all in understanding about that. Kaden, too. ``

`` I know. And I get why. I just think its unintelligent to let it come between us. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` But rose is so stubborn. I know she 's your outflank friend, but I 've grown up with her. And she refuses to consecrate in. So this might last a piece. ``

`` 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 whoremaster 's cauldron. He could n't secernate John anything about the conversation, though, since Janie was there. In fact, they only talked about the potion as they worked.

`` Time 's up ! '' Slughorn announced a piece later, `` bring a sample up to my desk for grading. ``

Albus dropped their potion off to Slughorn on his way out the door with whoremaster. He glanced back at Amanda. She was talking with pink wine, but looked up and gave Albus a half-hearted smile. Albus returned it and left the room, somehow feeling uncollectible than he had when he entered.

Albus and John hurried to the Great hall and found Kaden. The three of them ate a quick lunch and then rushed off to the hospital wing before their following classes.

gentlewoman Pomfrey was sitting at her desk when they walked in. She looked up, but remained seated when the three boys walked inside.

`` hullo, boys, '' she greeted them.

`` Hi ma'am 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 but absorb bed in the ward. He pulled the curtains undefendable and sat down on the end of Matt 's bed.

Matt was asleep. voice at peace judging by the rhythmic way his bureau moved up and down under the blankets. His side was scratched and there was a patch around his forehead, but other than that he looked all right. Granted, most of his body was covered by the mantle, but Albus hoped he was all right otherwise.

He did n't call forth when Albus sat down. John gently prodded his blanketed arm, but he did n't come along to notice it at all.

`` If he 's asleep, I suggest you let him be, '' Madam Pomfrey shouted from her desk, `` In fact, I insist. ``

`` Is he ok ? '' Saint John asked, `` He usually wakes up when we come in. ``

`` He had a approximative night, '' the nurse sighed, `` It 's like he did n't get any residual beforehand, but Hagrid tells me he skipped Care of Magical animate being, so I 'm for certain he must have slept. But he 's only woken up once since I brought him back this dawn. So, for whatever the reason, he must necessitate to log Z's. Perhaps it would be best if you came back after dinner party. ``

Albus nodded and got up off the bed. He knew why matte needed the extra sleep. He had n't slept much the previous day. Albus did n't say very much to whoremonger and Kaden as they left. He muttered a quiet adieu as he left for antediluvian Runes. He was dreading that class. It was one he shared with Rose and lustrelessness, and since Matt was practically unconscious in the infirmary wing, it would just be him and Rose.

Albus was half tempted to just skip Ancient runic letter. After all, he had n't ever pass over a family before, except when he was spew. Even when Washburn was teaching appealingness, Albus was there for every class. But, he was sure the teacher would send an owl to his parents, so he trudged his way to ancient rune as slowly as possible without being late.

However, Albus had n't thought about the downside of being the finale one to shew up for class. When he walked into the room, there were only two seating area left, at rose wine 's table. Linda was mysteriously absent again.

Albus groaned inwardly and sat down next to his full cousin. He stole a quick glance at her, but she was facing forward, looking determined.

Professor Sturly walked in a moment later. Albus crossed his fingers for a lecture class, something he rarely did. If the class was a talk, he could easily not blab out to Rose at all. But if they were working on decoding runes, he would have to work with a collaborator as usual. Since both Matt and Linda were n't in course of study, he 'd sustain to better half with Rose.

Sure enough, Sturly passed out tablets of runes for the year to decipher. She placed one in between Albus and Rose and told them to work together since their usual married person were n't there.

`` Albus, '' rose said icily as she turned to the tablet.

`` Rose, '' Albus muttered.

They worked quietly for a patch, only talking about the runes.

`` That 's not a sun, Albus, '' pink wine said as Albus wrote the watchword 'sun'on his parchment.

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

`` It 's a moon. ``

`` 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 hump, '' Rose said, `` She has n't looked well for the past times few days. ``

`` She was n't in the hospital flank, '' Albus replied.

`` Not everyone goes to the infirmary wing for every little affair, '' Rose said shortly.

`` fountainhead, if she 's been retch for a few days- ''

`` That 's her byplay, is n't it ? '' blush wine interrupted.

Albus nodded. pink wine was right about that. `` Er, are n't you going to ask how Matt is ? ``

`` I guess, '' rosiness muttered, `` How is he ? ``

`` Worse than usual, thanks to your row. ``

`` That was n't only my flaw. He was right there rowing with me, '' rosebush 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 deal how his- ''

Albus cut himself off. translation. rosiness said Linda had been disgorge for the past tense few days. So had lusterlessness. Linda had been cast around the broad moon. Was it possible that she, Linda, was a loup-garou, too ? Albus stared dumbstruck at the tab he was supposed to be decoding. It was kind sort of too much of a coincidence for them both to get sick at the Lapplander time. But then why would Matt be so play off to Linda finding out that he was a loup-garou, if she was one herself ?

`` Albus ? '' Rose asked.

`` Rose- '' he paused. Would Rose really secernate him if Linda was a loup-garou ? Probably not. `` Never mind. ``

`` Er, ok, '' Rose shrugged.

The rest of the family dragged by. As soon as the bell rang, Albus grabbed his hooey and ran out of the elbow room. He had to find John and Kaden. They had to find out if Linda really was a werewolf or not.

Albus made it to the Marauder 's Den in record clock time. Neither John or Kaden were there yet. Come to think of it, Kaden had class anyway, so he would n't even be there. But John the Evangelist did n't. Albus tossed his bag down and began pacing around the room.

toilet entered the elbow room a short while later. Albus looked up and ran over to him.

`` John ! '' Albus shouted.

`` What ? '' John asked, thoroughly confused.

`` I had to partner with Rose during ancient Runes since mat was n't there. guessing who else was n't there ? Linda. And she was n't in Potions either, '' Albus said quickly.

`` So ? '' John asked.

`` I asked pink wine about it and she said that Linda 's been ill the preceding few mean solar day, '' Albus continued.

`` But she 's been in class, '' Saint John the Apostle pointed out.

`` I know, that 's persona of it ! '' Albus replied, `` Can you think of anyone else who goes to family even when he 's ill ? ``

King John paused and then his eyes widened in shock. `` Matt ! Wait, are you thinking- ''

`` Linda 's a werewolf, '' Albus said.

`` You really think ? '' John asked.

`` Well, I obviously do n't know for surely .... ''

`` What about the last wax moon ? Was she sick then ? ''

`` I do n't call up, '' Albus sighed, `` I did n't really pay attending, did you ? ``

`` Nope, '' can said, `` But seriously ? ``

`` I do n't hump. I mean, it 's possible, but if she 's a loup-garou, why was matte so afraid of her finding out he 's one ? ``

`` dependable peak, '' John sighed.

`` We 've got to receive out. ``

`` I know, we can ask Matt ! '' John the Divine said, `` Because she would 've been with him in the screeching Shack, right ? ``

`` Not necessarily, '' Albus shook his forefront, `` If wolfsbane works for her, she could n't have been near him. ``

`` Oh, right field, '' St. 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 know he would n't be so interest about her finding out about him, '' Albus said.

`` And then he and pink wine could make up. ``

`` Exactly, '' Albus grinned. He wanted cipher 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 awful people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John practically ran to the hospital backstage. They slowed down as they neared it and tried to take care as casual as they could as they walked in. Madam Pomfrey was busy with a patient role, so she did n't even notice them as they made a beeline for Matt 's bed.

Albus yanked the pall back and shut out them again once Gospel According to John and himself were inside. To his substitute, Matt was awake this clip. He looked exhausted, but he was awake.

`` Hey, Matt, '' Albus said.

`` Hey, Albus, '' flatness replied, `` How are you ? ``

`` All right, '' Albus said, `` How about you ? ``

`` Tired, '' lusterlessness sighed, `` Er, how is Rose ? Is she still ignoring us ? ``

`` Pretty much, '' Albus said quietly.

King John nodded and then glanced at Albus. Albus took a deep breathing spell. He had n't really thought about how he was going to ask Matt about this.

`` Are you two ok ? '' Matt asked tentatively.

King John poked Albus. Albus glared at him and then turned back to Matt. `` Well, we sort of wanted to ask you something, '' Albus lowered his voice, `` I 'm indisputable you 'll guess its mental .... ''

flatness stared at him curiously. `` Er, all right, what is it ? ``

`` I was talking to Rose in ancient Runes- ''

`` I thought she was still ignoring us. ``

`` She was. But we were cooperator, since you were n't there. ``

`` What about Linda ? '' mat 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 tense few twenty-four hours. I could n't really avail but point out that she was ill around the same time you were and well, St. John and I were sort of wondering if maybe, well, she was- ''

`` Like me ? '' Matt whispered. His eye had widened in shock and he was staring incredulously at Albus and John.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus muttered, `` Told you it was genial. ``

`` It is, '' Matt said adamantly.

`` So you know she 's not ? '' John asked, `` You saw her in here or something ? Or did Madam Pomfrey tell you ? ``

mat smiled wryly. `` Of track not. Even if she was, I doubt gentlewoman Pomfrey would tell me. You two missed the obvious clew that she 's not like me. ``

Albus turned to Saint John the Apostle, who shrugged.

`` Linda normally goes to the Australian schooling of Sorcery, '' matte stated, `` The school 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 induce smacked himself in the head. He turned to John Lackland, who looked like he was about to explode 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 werewolf. There was no way he would include Linda if she was one.

`` Oh, rightfield, '' Albus mumbled, `` Should have remembered that. ``

`` It 's actually kind of funny that you thought she was like me, '' matt smirked.

`` I guess she 's just got a cold or something, '' John shrugged.

`` Yeah, probably, '' Albus said. So much for the theme of Rose and matt making up. Albus would just have to think of some former way to get them to be friends again.

`` When do you get to pass on ? '' Saint John asked.

`` Not sure, '' Matt sighed, `` Probably tardy tomorrow, if I 'm lucky. ``

`` Hogsmeade is on Sabbatum, '' John the Evangelist said.

`` I know. I 'll be out for that, even if I have to nobble out when Madam Pomfrey is sleeping, '' Matt replied.

Albus did n't really think madam Pomfrey would sleep through someone trying to filch out of the ward, but he hoped matte would be out in metre to go to Hogsmeade. It would be incredibly unfair if he was n't allowed to go.

******

The secrecy continued into the future day. Linda returned from her mystic unwellness and went back to spending all her free time with Rose and Amanda. Albus spent his time with can and Kaden in the predator 's Den.

Albus hated the muteness More and more every day. It kept him up at night, but he could n't think of anything he could do about it. The row was mainly between rosebush and Matt. Albus could n't figure out it, but it was eating away at him like it was his own row. He was very gladiola he was n't playing Quidditch in the approaching lucifer. He would n't have been able to concentrate.

flatness did n't leave the hospital wing until Fri evening. ma'am Pomfrey had reluctantly let him leave alone in order to go to Hogsmeade the following day.

Albus woke up not feeling nearly as excited as he probably should have about going to Hogsmeade. He and Rose had imagined going to Hogsmeade together since they were little minor. 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 idea of going by themselves had always been exciting.

Now that the day had actually arrived, Albus could n't help but feel a bit disappointed. He would n't be going with Rose. Not while they were still in the midst of a row. It was either go with Matt and John, or dump them and go with the girls. The latter was n't even a real option. He was still mad at pink wine and if he decided to prepare up with her, he 'd hold lusterlessness and King John angry with him. He just had to face it ; going to Hogsmeade with Rose was not an option.

Albus, Matt, and John joined the waiting line of people in the Entrance manse later on in the morning. lusterlessness and privy were more excited than Albus was, but still More subdued than the residuum of the third base years.

`` We 've got to remember the stuff for the Hallowe'en company, '' whoremonger reminded them.

The Halloween party was that Night. Albus had nearly forgotten about it over the past few twenty-four hours. It was another affair that would have been more fun if they were n't fighting with the girls.

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We 've got to get Kaden 's hooey, too. ``

`` Merlin, he was overjealous that we get to go and he does n't, '' John smirked.

`` Ca n't blame him, '' Matt lowered his voice, `` I mean, this is the inaugural time we 'll get to try out the Hogsmeade component part of the map. ``

Albus grinned. That was one part about the Hogsmeade tripper that Albus was still thoroughly excited about. He had the new map in his cloak pocket, all ready to go.

`` We can see who likes to go to the Hog 's mind, '' privy grinned mischievously.

`` Hey, Amy used to go there, '' lustrelessness said.

`` Really ? '' John asked.

`` Yeah, she liked how discharge it was. ``

`` Seems like an awfully depressing place, '' toilet said.

`` Where do you lot desire to go first ? '' Albus asked as they gave their name to Filch.

`` Weasley 's, '' John said immediately, `` I 've got onus to buy there. And Kaden gave me a list of stuff he wants me to get him, too. ``

`` Why does that not storm me ? '' Albus smirked.

The boys walked the shortly distance into Hogsmeade once Filch checked their names off. It was a chilly autumn day. There was a slight zephyr in the air and it was cloudy, but not the sort of cloud that threatened rain. They could n't consume asked for undecomposed weather in late October.

Once they arrived, they hid behind a Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree in edict to expect at the map. Albus glanced around to earn sure nobody was watching and then pulled it out of his cloak. He muttered the incantation and soon, an inky reverberation of Hogsmeade was on the yellowed paper.

`` Whoa, '' flatness whispered, `` Look, Weasleys'is so crowded, you ca n't read any of the labels. ``

There were back breaker 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 store was the most popular in Hogsmeade. There were More low accumulation of dots in the relief of the shops and pubs. A little few were in the Hog 's Head.

`` Anyone we know in the Hog 's caput ? '' John asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus said after he read the labels.

Albus wiped the map clean and then they set off for Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes. It took them a while to squeeze into the bunch, and once there, Albus and Matt quickly lost John to the concourse of students grabbing merchandise.

Both George and shimmy were behind the counter, ringing up purchase as fast as they possibly could.

`` Hi Uncle George I ! teddy bear ! '' Albus shouted.

`` Hey, Al ! '' George I shouted back.

`` Albus ! '' Teddy exclaimed, `` How 's your first Hogsmeade trip ? ``

`` Great, '' Albus smiled, `` Are you coming to the Halloween party ? ``

`` Would n't overlook it, '' shift grinned, `` Victoire and Amy are going, too. ``

`` That 's thoroughly, '' Albus said, `` Are you dressing up ? ``

`` 'Course, '' teddy laughed.

`` What as ? ``

`` Where would the fun in that be ? '' chemise winked.

John returned a footling while later, arms laden with merchandise. He dumped it all on the replication 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 succeeding Hogsmeade trip, '' John said.

`` You 're one of my best client, lavatory, '' George laughed.

`` Do you really ask five Snackboxes ? '' Matt asked.

`` Definitely. Divination 's awful. And two are for Kaden, '' John the Evangelist replied.

John paid for his purchase and then the group wandered down the route until they reached Gladrags Wizardwear. They slowly walked inside, only to ascertain that it was filled with giggly girls.

`` I 'd be well-chosen if I never had to set invertebrate foot in here again, '' toilet groaned as he gestured to a showing of pinko glittering robes.

`` We just need to get our costume stuff and nonsense and get out, '' Albus muttered, equally distressed about having to bring down a clothing shop.

The three boys tried to incite as quietly as possible through the crowd of young woman in order to find their costume material. Albus immediately found a black shirt and pants for his skeleton in the cupboard costume. He had bought glow in the dark-skinned blusher at Weasleys'and one of his cousins was going to paint bones on the shirt and pants with it.

John had purchased Muggle vampire teeth and Muggle face key at Weasleys', so all he needed was a black cape, which he found quickly. Matt located a Andrew Dickson White sheet, which was all he needed for his ghost costume. Albus got another livid sheet, which they would cut up into strips for Kaden 's mummy costume.

`` Finally ! '' whoremonger exclaimed once they left the shop, `` That 's my least deary place in Hogsmeade. ``

`` You should go to madam Puddifoot 's, then, '' Albus laughed.

lav shuddered. `` No way. I will never set foot in that outrageous place. ``

`` Anyone want to go to the three Broomsticks ? '' Matt shivered.

`` Yeah, I could use with a Butterbeer, '' Albus agreed and pulled his cloak tighter. The wind had picked up and Butterbeer would be good to warm up with.

Albus led his champion up the street and into the crowded pub. It seemed that everyone had the idea of warming up with a Butterbeer. Albus and lusterlessness snagged the death empty table while whoremaster went to the bar to get a few Butterbeers.

`` What do you think the party is going to be like ? '' Matt asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` It 's not really commons for there to be an actual party. Usually it 's just the feast. I guess they just want us to interact with the strange student. Kind of like the Yuletide clod for the Triwizard tourney. ``

`` I just ca n't wait to see what the great unwashed dress up as, '' John announced as he returned with the Butterbeers.

`` Think the teachers will cut back up ? '' matt asked.

`` I hope so, '' St. John grinned, `` Probably depends on the teacher, though. I could see Kendrick dressing up. And Longbottom. Not sure about Slughorn. ``

Albus snorted into his Butterbeer. `` Slughorn, garb up ? Now that would be funny. ``

`` I think any of the instructor dressing up would be funny, '' Matt laughed.

`` So, how long do you think it 'll be until Kaden endeavor sneaking into Hogsmeade ? '' John asked.

`` Next 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 sneak in. ``

`` Are you going to let him have it side by side time ? '' Matt asked as he sipped his Butterbeer.

`` Probably, '' Albus nodded.

`` What if he gets caught ? '' Matt asked.

Albus shrugged. `` He 'll get a yoke detentions. It 's not like he 'll notice another two detainment. ``

`` just degree, '' Matt grinned and turned to St. John the Apostle, `` You two spend half your waking clip 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. ``

`` well, when you spend every other Night with him, who can blame him ? '' Albus smirked.

`` Shut it, Albus, '' St. John the Apostle laughed, `` Or side by side time we get caught, we 'll secernate Filch whatever we were doing was all your mind. ``

`` He 'll never believe you, '' Albus grinned.

`` Albus, '' a female vocalism said from behind him.

Albus turned around and saw blush wine, Butterbeer in bridge player, with Amanda and Linda on either face of her.

`` Rose, '' Albus muttered.

The mood at the board quickly turned from joking around to tense quiet. Albus nervously glanced from Amanda to Rose and back again. He looked at Matt and john, who were both glaring at the girls.

`` All the tables are taken, '' Amanda sighed, `` Do you mind 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 lustrelessness and john through the crowded pub, looking back at the young lady. Amanda was the sole one who was watching them leave.

`` Why could n't they have found some early table to sit at ? '' John groaned after they were back outside.

`` I dunno, '' Albus muttered. He had been having fun joking around with Matt and John, but as soon as the girl 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, '' Matt laughed.

`` Do n't even joke about that, '' trick shuddered, `` But you know, we have n't been to the shriek shanty. ``

Matt groaned. `` You 're kidding, right ? ``

`` Nope, '' John grinned and took off up the street, `` ejaculate on, do n't even say you 're not going. Because you are. ``

Matt sent Albus a shriveled look and set off at a slower pace after John. Albus laughed to himself and followed them.

There were a duet multitude leaning on the fence in front of the Shack. They were all thirdly years. Albus figured the thrill of the screeching Shack wore off after the first match Hogsmeade trips. Albus and Matt joined John, who was standing near a mate girls who were looking at the Shack.

`` It 's the most haunted building in UK ! '' a Ravenclaw named Ann Jacobs told her friend.

`` Really ? '' the girl 's center widened. Albus vaguely remembered that she was Muggle born.

`` Yeah, it 's haunted by ghosts ! '' Ann Jacobs said excitedly, `` right, Albus ? ``

`` Er, yup, '' Albus nodded, `` wraith. ``

`` I wonder if we could get inside ! '' the former daughter said.

`` You ca n't, '' Matt said quickly.

`` How do you know ? '' the girl asked.

`` My Sister tried once, '' Matt answered, `` She graduated our first twelvemonth. The place is completely sealed. ``

`` Oh, '' the lady friend sighed, `` Would have been assuredness. ``

`` We should get back, '' flatness said, `` We 've got to get our costumes set up. ``

`` good idea, '' Albus agreed.

The boy bade goodbye to the two Ravenclaws and headed back to the castle. They were all very hushed on the walkway back. Albus sunk back into his thoughts of how he should birth gone to Hogsmeade with pink wine. He hoped he 'd be able 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 questions, and the respite of the male child launched into a detailed verbal description of their full trip.

After Kaden 's rarity was finally satisfied, the son got to mould on their costumes. lustrelessness, John, and Kaden stayed behind in the predator 's Den to constitute lusterlessness 's trace costume and Kaden 's mum costume while Albus set off to bump one of his full cousin to paint his skeleton costume.

Gabriella agreed to urinate the costume. Not wanting to find the fille and ask Amanda to do it, Albus had been hoping Gabriella would. Gabriella was the most originative of all his first cousin and even though all he needed was someone to perform a picture magical spell, he figured Gabriella would do the right 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 couple of us are going as Veelas. ``

`` Well, you 've already got the hair, so it wo n't take much for you to set 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 vulture 's Den, he was met not by his Quaker, but by a specter, mummy, and vampire. All three costumes were brilliant. lusterlessness looked just like a Muggle ghostwriter, complete with eye holes and a round rima oris cakehole. Kaden was wrapped in strips of snowy sheet that were hanging off of him in various places. John 's costume was the best, in Albus 's ruling. He wore a black cape with a White River shirt and shameful pants underneath. He also had a red bowtie on, which Kaden insisted would hold him look more vampirish. His face was completely covered in white make-up and he was wearing bright red lipstick that dripped onto his chin. When he grinned, he revealed pearly white vampire fangs.

`` You lot look outstanding, '' Albus grinned, `` The Muggle costumes was definitely the way to go. ``

`` Put yours on, '' flatness said.

Albus nodded and went to his section of the room. When he came out, he was wearing his costume. Albus looked at his arms and they were glowing. Gabriella had done an excellent job with the painting appealingness. His pectus was covered in a glow in the nighttime rib cage.

`` Brilliant, Albus, '' Saint John grinned.

`` We 're going to have the upright costumes in the schooling, '' Kaden announced, `` Are the girlfriend still dressing up as witches ? ``

`` No thought, '' Albus sighed. He had n't talked to surface about the costumes in weeks. `` guesswork we 'll find out. ``

Albus had no mind what to expect from the company. The professors had never sponsored a political party before while he was at Hogwarts. He walked down to the Great foyer with Matt, John, and Kaden. They passed quite a few people on the way down and saw all sort of unlike costumes.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who read and reviewed this ! You guys are awful !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


When Albus walked into the Great G. Stanley 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 spider web were draped across every surface. The four House tables had disappeared and were replaced by spindly round wooden tabular array. falsify wanderer were crawling around the storey. fraud bats were flying around. tabular array of nutrient were set up everywhere. cauldron were smoking on top of them, emitting all sorts of different colored sess.

The professors were all milling about and talking with each other. Kendrick was dressed up as Merlin or Dumbledore, Albus could n't tell 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 quick to aim out. He was probably dressed as some other renowned Hufflepuff, but Albus had no estimation who it was.

In fact, nearly all the professors were dressed up. The only one who was n't was Balladanis. He was wearing his usual pristine black robes with the intricate silver fastening. He was wearing a grim look as he brushed past Albus and his admirer. His eyes narrowed a small at John but he quickly looked away. Albus thought this was odd, but did n't harp on it.

As the room gradually filled with more and more students, Albus noticed that there were an alarming measure of them dressed up as his father. Most were first years. Albus just kept staring as eleven-year-olds with credit card glasses and fake scars on their faces walked past. He thought it was really really odd.

`` We 're surrounded by your dad, '' John laughed as another illumination Harry thrower walked by.

`` This is just weird, '' Albus muttered, shaking his head.

`` It 's kind of funny story, '' John 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 bet like he was dressed up at all, but Albus figured he was his Uncle Ron.

`` Uncle Ron would care that, '' Albus smirked.

`` He would, '' someone said from behind Albus.

Albus turned around and saw the real Harry thrower with a dental plate of cooky in bridge player. `` Hi, Dad ! ``

`` This has got to be the unusual 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 mass were dressed as his dad.

`` Too bad Ron is on obligation tonight, '' Harry sighed, `` He would 've liked to see a kid dressed as him. Where 's rosebush ? ``

`` Er .... ''

Harry gave Albus a curious looking at. `` Is everything all right ? ``

`` Um, yeah, '' Albus mumbled, `` I guess. ``

`` well, you know I 'm always here if you need to talk, '' Harry replied, `` I like your costumes, by the way. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus grinned, `` Kaden 's musical theme. ``

`` So far I have n't seen any former 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 friend wandered over to one of the solid food tabular array. They loaded up plates with Gallus gallus and Irish potato and assorted other stuff and went to find out seats.

`` Look, Albus, '' lusterlessness pointed to the door, `` The lady friend are dressed as Muggle witches. ``

Albus looked up and saw Rose, Amanda, and Linda strolling into the elbow room dressed as the Muggle adaptation of a crone. All three of them were wearing plain nigrify robe, black witch hat, and had painted their faces green.

Albus caught Amanda 's eye and they gave each other weak smiles as the girls walked into the room.

`` shot they could n't come up with any former ideas, '' John muttered.

`` We did gibe on costumes before they stopped speaking to us, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I guess, '' John said.

`` Looks like they 're coming over here, '' Matt groaned.

Albus set down his plate and watched as the girls progressed towards them. rosiness 's face was still granitelike, even in green. Amanda was leading them, so Albus figured she wanted to say hi, not Rose.

`` Hi, Albus, '' Amanda greeted them, `` Matt, Saint John, Kaden. Great costumes. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` You, too. ``

cypher else said anything. Albus stood awkwardly with Amanda and looked around at the group. rose was glaring at Matt and frailty versa. John and Kaden were shifting nervously around. Linda was staring at John, but not in a execration way. It was more of a combining between curiosity and revulsion, which Albus thought was form of odd.

`` This is just so poor fish ! '' Amanda finally exclaimed, `` Do you lot want to maintain fighting for the residual of the year ? ``

`` Not really, '' Albus muttered.

pink wine sent a fade look at Amanda and then turned around and left in a huff. Amanda sighed and followed her. Linda shook her head and then ran after Amanda.

`` Well, that was awkward, '' Kaden announced a few mo later.

`` Is this really what the residue of the year is going to be like ? '' Albus asked, looking pointedly at lusterlessness, `` 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 skillful finis it. ``

`` It 's not that bare, Albus, '' matte 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 Rose is still upset over it ! I just do n't understand it. ``

`` Told you it was n't simple, '' matt said in barely Sir Thomas More than a whisper.

`` They 're girls. Nothing is unsubdivided with girls, '' John groaned, `` And do you know why it 's not simple-minded, flatness ? ``

lusterlessness shifted uncomfortably and looked away for a few seconds. `` Yeah, I do, '' he whispered.

`` guardianship to explicate ? '' Albus asked, now thoroughly confused.

`` Not here, '' lustrelessness said, `` Come on, let 's go to the room. ``

Albus followed matte out of the Great Hall with John and Kaden on either incline of him. None of them said a word until they reached the Marauder 's Den. They went inside and sat down on the furniture. lustrelessness stood up as soon as he sat down and then began pacing around. It reminded Albus of the time he explained about the Hallows back in their first year.

`` All right, what 's up with the young woman ? '' John asked after Matt paced for a few moments.

Matt stopped pacing and stood in movement of them. `` Ok, here it goes. What do you know about vampires ? ``

`` Wait, what ? '' Albus shook his promontory. What in the gens of Falco columbarius did vampire deliver to do with the girls ?

`` What do you have intercourse about lamia ? '' flatness repeated.

John laughed. `` They vant to suck your blood ! '' he exclaimed in a bad Transylvannian accent. He opened his mouthpiece and leaned towards Kaden 's neck.

`` Ew, '' Kaden moved away, `` Vampires 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 at-bat. Oh, and you have to stamp out them with a wooden post to the nub. ``

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` I do n't really know much besides the solid bloodline sucking thing. ``

`` You know, '' Matt began, `` You know nothing about vampire, yet you knew enough about wolfman to enter out that I was one. ``

`` That was rose, '' Albus reminded him.

`` rightfulness, anyway, Kaden, those are the lamia as Muggles see them. They 're not like that. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden said.

`` What do vampire feature to do with this anyway ? '' St. John asked, `` I just want to know why Rose is so stubborn. ``

`` It 's just the way she is, '' Albus muttered.

`` Vampires, '' lustrelessness continued, `` In the wizarding mankind, are the undead. They 're dead, but they 're still around, obviously. Vampires feed on human rake, but if they do n't absorb a man completely dry, the victim becomes a vampire themselves. ``

`` Sort of ilk werewolf, '' 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 wait twenty two hundred years later. Their hearts stop beating and they run out of blood. That 's why they turn pasty blank. Then, they need to fee on blood in monastic order to survive. They can either use human or animal blood. The vampire that like to integrate into human society prefer to use carnal blood. All they need to survive is blood. They do n't need food. But they eat it to pretend they 're human being. They do n't call for to sleep either. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden asked, `` That is Wyrd. ``

Albus never knew any of that. Now the vampire unit of measurement in defense reaction class was going to be incredibly easy.

`` How often do they drink pedigree ? '' Albus asked.

`` Depends on the vampire. Most need to fuddle it every distich of weeks or so. ``

`` What happens if they do n't ? ''

`` They get feeble, '' flatness explained, `` lamia are exceptionally strong and firm, but if they have n't had any line of descent recently, they feel weak and sick. ``

`` Like you do before the full lunation, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, '' Matt nodded, `` Sort of like that. ``

`` Can they go out during the day ? '' can asked.

`` There 's a potion that they take so they can go out in the sun. The sun hurts them. sort of like the lunation for werewolves. ``

`` But what 's this got to do with Rose ? '' can asked impatiently.

`` I 'm getting there, '' matt said as he began pacing again, `` Anyway, vampire are fast and strong so they can charm their quarry. But they are also more beautiful than even man. That way people are attracted to them. They 're also really really charismatic. When you meet one, you 're naturally attracted to them. It 's hard to explicate, you 're just drawn to them. It does n't even weigh if they 're a boy or a girl or if you 're a boy or a young lady. ``

Albus suddenly remembered the day the strange students arrived and he first laid eyes on Linda. She was beautiful. Albus had n't been able-bodied to take aim his eyes off her. But she did n't appear particularly charismatic. After hearing lustrelessness 's description of a vampire, 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 ? '' King John asked.

`` Pretty much, yeah, '' matte said.

`` How do you know all this ? '' John the Divine asked.

`` Remember the library at my house ? There are loads of vampire Christian Bible there because of my dad 's job. I 've read a few of them. ``

`` Well, you 'll do groovy on whatever trial run Balladanis gives us on lamia when we get to that unit, '' John laughed.

`` Wait, '' Kaden looked at lusterlessness curiously, `` Muggles believe that vampires and lycanthrope hate each other, and did n't you say that 's real ? ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Matt said quietly, `` That 's pretty much it. But mostly the big rivalry is between lycanthrope and vampires who live away from virtuoso. There are packs of werewolves and covens of vampires who fight over territorial dominion and stuff. That does n't bechance as much as it did year ago, but it still does occasionally, mostly in early rural area. ``

`` So, you do n't really detest all vampires ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I 've never really met one, '' mat shrugged.

`` And what in the name of Merlin does this experience to do with Rose rowing with us ? '' John asked exasperatingly.

Albus was getting a bit raring as well. sure enough, he liked hearing about vampires. They were form of interesting, but he mainly wanted to know what Matt knew about Rose.

`` Linda is a vampire, '' Matt said simply.

The room was silent for a few second. Albus stared at mat. Linda was a vampire ? It was potential. She did fit some of the feature, but it was still heavily to grasp. Albus had never met a vampire before, let alone one that was his age.

`` When did you figure that out ? '' Albus asked.

`` As soon as she walked past the Gryffindor table, '' matt answered.

John looked at him in awe. `` Wow, that 's telling. You ought to go into the section for the Regulation and Control of Magical creature. ``

`` Now that would be even more ironic than my dad working there, '' Matt laughed, `` But I would possess known she was a vampire even if I did n't know so a good deal about them. Werewolves and vampires can instantly recognize each other. ``

`` How ? '' Albus asked.

`` Smell, '' matte said, `` Vampires have a distinctive smell, but regular sensation ca n't differentiate. wolfman can, though. And lamia can smell lycanthrope. ``

`` And you did n't secern us ? '' Saint John asked incredulously.

`` I did n't see the point, until now. ``

`` Did n't see the breaker point ? There 's a vampire at Hogwarts and you did n't retrieve to evidence us ? '' John shook his head, `` There 's always a understanding to narrate us that variety of stuff and nonsense. ``

flatness shrugged. `` Well, you know now. ``

Albus was still processing the info. Linda was a vampire. matt knew Linda was a vampire from the starting time. wolfman can reek vampires. vampire can sense werewolves. That meant-

`` postponement, '' Albus began, `` Linda knows you 're a werewolf, does n't she ? ``

matt sighed. `` Yes, she probably does. ``

`` Then why does it matter if she gets to go in the Marauder 's Den ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked, `` Not that I want to let her in. ``

`` It 's the principle of the matter ! '' lustrelessness replied, `` I just do n't see why Killigan let her go to his schooltime but he would n't let me ! I know it 's stupid to avoid her because of that because it 's not her break, but I just do n't get it. ``

Albus had n't even thought of that. lusterlessness was right ; it did n't make sentiency. How was letting a vampire into a school any different from letting a lycanthrope ?

`` But if you had been let in, you would n't have moved here, '' John the Evangelist pointed out.

`` I know, and I 'm glad we moved, but it 's just not just, '' mat sighed.

`` So, '' Kaden said loudly, `` There 's a vampire at Hogwarts. Who 's rake is she sucking ? ``

"That, is actually a good question, '' Albus said.

`` I have no idea, '' Matt replied, `` I 'm guessing she 's sucking fleshly descent. Probably hunts in the woodland. ``

`` What about the whole 'vampires are charismatic'matter ? '' Albus asked. Even if Linda did want to imbibe man ancestry, he had no estimation how she 'd manage to tempt a human being towards her. She seemed to avoid as many people as possible.

lusterlessness smiled wryly, `` That 's where it gets interesting. The three of you do n't see her as charismatic, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said. lavatory and Kaden nodded.

`` That 's what I thought. It 's because you 're friends with me. ``

Albus turned to attend at john and Kaden. Both of them looked as confused as Albus felt.

`` postponement, what ? '' King John asked.

`` even way back when there were Thomas More packs of werewolves and covens of vampires running about, it was possible for humans to affiliate with one or the other. Occasionally, a ring of werewolves would sort of 'adopt'a homo and the human would exist with the pack. I mean, the human would leave for the full lunar month, but live with the multitude the rest of the month. But if the human came upon a vampire, the human would be completely undesirable to a vampire because they were affiliated with lycanthrope. ``

`` And we 're affiliated with you, so Linda would n't want to absorb our blood, even if she did soak up human blood ? '' Albus asked.

`` Exactly, '' Matt replied, `` call up how everyone seemed to cluster around Linda when she first came here ? Everyone except us. Even Rose disliked her back then. ``

`` But she does n't now, '' Kaden reminded him.

`` I know. That 's because as rose wine started spending more than prison term with Linda, she spent to a lesser extent time 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 charisma. ``

Rose was affiliated with a vampire ? Did this mean there was no Hope of her reconciling with matte ? Albus groaned inwardly. He really did n't like Linda now. She was putting a huge falling out into their group.

`` Is it potential for a individual to be Friend with both a loup-garou and a lamia ? '' Albus asked quietly.

`` I think so, '' Matt sighed, `` But rose wine wo n't even talk to us. ``

`` I think the only way she will is if we agree to let Linda into the Marauder 's Den, '' Albus muttered, `` She 's just so stubborn. ``

`` But we do n't require to let her in here, '' whoremaster groaned.

`` No, we do n't, '' matt agreed.

`` Do you recollect Rose knows she 's a vampire ? '' Albus asked. rosiness was smart, but if she had found out Linda was a vampire, she probably would have told him. She told him matte was a werewolf, after all. Unless of course she discovered Linda was a vampire after the row.

`` No idea, '' Matt shrugged, `` Do you know if she knows anything about vampires ? ``

`` Probably not often, '' Albus answered.

`` Then she might not. Linda 's obviously trying to hold back that she 's a vampire. I bet she 'll find out when we do the vampire whole in defense, though. ``

`` Unless we tell her first, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Are we going to ? '' privy asked.

`` Would she even mind ? '' Matt asked.

`` I sort of think we should at least try to tell her, '' Albus said, `` And Amanda, too. ``

`` I suppose, '' mat sighed, `` But they 're always around Linda. ``

`` We 'll just have to wait until she 's at Quidditch practice. I think the Australian team practices on Mon, so I guess we 'll wait until then, '' Albus said.

The way descended into secretiveness for a few instant. Linda had definitely spiked Albus 's curiosity. He was mostly queer about why Linda had been allowed to go to the Australian schoolhouse of necromancy but Matt had n't. What was the difference of opinion in letting a vampire attend than a werewolf ? Even if Linda did suck beast blood, there was still the potential for her to suck human being blood.

`` Bloody hell, '' Kaden let out a low whistle, `` A lamia at Hogwarts. ``

Albus nodded. Kaden pretty much summed up what Albus was thinking. Linda being a vampire had shocked him more than flatness being a loup-garou. He was n't sure why, but maybe it was because Teddy 's dad had been a wolfman and he attended Hogwarts, but as far as Albus knew, no lamia had ever been there.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The atm at Hogwats the next day reminded Albus a lot of what it was like the day of the Quidditch Final. It was the day of the foremost Quidditch compeer of the Inter-School contender. Australia would be playing New York. Albus was excited, but not as excited as he would feature been if Hogwarts was playing. He did n't particularly care who won this match. He was rum about Linda 's seeking skill, though.

`` Hi, Al, '' mortal said from prat Albus as he walked down to the sales pitch with Matt, John, and Kaden.

Albus turned around and saw his dad. `` Hi, Dad ! Here to see the match ? Or are you on duty ? ``

`` Just to see the catch, '' Harry grinned, `` I 'm hoping to be able to see them all, especially the ones you and James get to encounter in. ``

`` I do n't really get to take on 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 friction match. ``

`` Bye, Dad, '' Albus waved as he ran ahead of them.

The boys found decent seats and waited for the match to get down. The weather condition was particularly squeamish, especially for a later October day. The sun was out and there was only a slight breeze in the unseasonably warmly air.

`` It 's kind of odd to not be rooting for Gryffindor, '' Matt said.

Albus agreed. nobody was segregated into family sections like they usually were during Quidditch matches. `` I do n't have a go at it who to settle down for. ``

`` Me either, '' John lowered his voice, `` I mostly just want to see how Linda plays. Never seen a vampire play Quidditch before. ``

`` She must be ripe. She 's only a arcsecond year and she 's on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` But she 's immortal, '' mat reminded them, `` So she 's probably decennary older than us at least. ``

Albus still found that view of lamia very strange. He sighed to himself and focused on the pitch, where a few people were milling about. Albus could create out professor Kendrick, Roberts, and Killigan, along with a few other people Albus did n't recognize.

`` Welcome, bookman, staff, and guests to the world-class Quidditch mates of the rival ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crowd a few minutes later, `` This will work exactly like unconstipated Quidditch matches. Ludo travelling salesman of the Department of Magical Sports will referee this catch. And now, I give you the Quidditch squad of the Adirondack honorary society of conjuring trick and the Aussie shoal of black magic ! ``

The New Yorkers were dressed in dreary Quidditch gown and the Australians were dressed in leafy vegetable. Both team entered the rake with heather in their men. Albus watched as each of their captains shake hands. Bagman blew a whistling and all XV of them rose into the air.

`` And they 're off ! '' Todd smith, who was apparently the commentator for the inter-school lucifer, shouted, `` Haberino of New York catches the Quaffle and is flying to the Aussie finish station .... ''

It was a very fast paced friction match. The Quaffle passed back and forth between role player faster than Smith could denote. Albus was very impressed. He also doubted he could fly as well as them and was sort of glad he was n't playing.

Albus knew he should pay the closest care to the chaser, but he could n't help but gape at Linda as she flew around the pitch. She was noticeably faster than the residuum of the players. Her soma was practically a blur every clip she darted in between the rest of the players.

`` Falco columbarius, she 's fast ! '' Albus exclaimed as Linda went from one end of the pitch to the other in bare seconds.

`` I do n't mean I 've ever seen anyone fly that fasting ! '' John Lackland gaped, `` And I 've been to loads of Puddlemere matches ! ``

`` fountainhead, that would explain it, '' Matt smirked.

`` Puddlemere has pot of fast airman ! '' Saint John the Apostle shouted, `` It 's you who 's probably never seen anyone fly fast, what with you being a Cannons fan .... ''

Matt rolled his eyes. `` She 's fast because of what she is. ``

Albus nodded. He sort of figured that. It did n't seem fair, though. None of the early teams had a vampire for a quester. James obviously was n't a vampire and Albus doubted the New House of York quester 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 Aussie team. Although, Albus was n't sure Kendrick and Roberts knew Linda was a vampire.

`` New House of York scores ! '' Kate Smith shouted, `` 40-20 New York ! ``

Linda may induce been fast, but New York seemed to have honorable chaser. Their panache 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 blastoff across the sales pitch, from the Australian goals to the rear of the New House of York destination. Albus stood up and watched the New York Seeker flew after her, but was meters behind. Linda dove for the dry land and aviate back into the air clutching something in her hand.

`` Is that ? '' trick began.

`` The Snitch ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` It is, '' Albus stared as the two team descended to the dry land. It had only been fifteen instant since the match started !

`` Linda Morales of Commonwealth of Australia has caught the stoolpigeon ! '' Bessie Smith announced, `` Australia wins 170-40 ! ``

`` That was the quickest biz of Quidditch I 've ever seen, '' John said.

Everyone agreed. Albus had never seen anyone enamour the Snitch that fast before. If the early matches were like this one, Australia was going to have the competition in the bag.

`` I 'm guessing this match wo n't be followed by a party in the park room ? '' Kaden asked as the boys got up from their seats.

`` Probably not, '' Albus laughed, `` Hogwarts did n't work, so we 've really got nothing to lionise. ``

`` Linda 's in Gryffindor, though, '' John pointed out.

`` Yeah, but I 'm betting most of the Gryffindors are going to be a bit untune at Linda 's seeking skills. I mean, James is good, but even he 's going to give birth problem going up against Linda. I think she 'd even give Teddy a run for his money, '' Albus pointed out.

`` James River can exhaust her, '' whoremonger said confidently as they began the journey back to school, `` He 's a brilliant Seeker. ``

`` But she 's degraded, '' Albus sighed.

`` She 's bound to slue up eventually, '' Kaden said hopefully.

Albus certainly hoped so. Maybe the Beaters could just constantly pelt her with Bludgers throughout the whole match so she would n't have a chance to find the Snitch.

They continued to walk alongside the forest on their way to the castle. The pilus on the vertebral column of Albus 's neck bristled and he looked quickly over his articulatio humeri. It felt like someone was watching him. He stopped in his data track and looked into the forest. He saw a dark figure jumping behind a tree. Someone was in there.

`` Why 'd you contain, Albus ? '' Kaden asked.

`` There 's someone in the timberland, '' Albus whispered.

`` Hagrid ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, '' Albus shook his psyche, `` Too small to be Hagrid. ``

`` We should go find out who it is, '' John announced.

`` Are you mental ? '' matt said, `` Whoever 's in there could be a murderer or something ! ''

Albus was n't sure about that, but he was sure that he was curious. He wanted to acknowledge who was lurking about the timber after a Quidditch match.

`` Maybe we should, '' Albus said.

matte sighed. `` Albus, you 're supposed to be the sane one. ``

`` I want to go see who it is, '' Kaden said.

`` It 's the Forbidden woodland ! '' lustrelessness 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 right level. But at the Saame time, Albus really wanted to know who it was. He could n't just resist there and not go find out who the mystical public 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 forest, '' Albus replied.

Harry peered into the timber and then turned back to Albus with a drear look on his grimace. `` Thanks for letting me know, Al. I 'll find out it out. I want all four of you to go back to the rook 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 crucial, I 'll let you make out. ``

Albus nodded and started to walk back to the rook with his booster. He glanced back at his dad and saw his Patronus running in the opposite counselling. A few people were pointing at it and whispering.

`` Who do you think it is ? '' Kaden asked.

Albus shrugged. `` Dunno. I mean, the sole hoi polloi I can remember of are Washburn and Willinson, but they have n't been sighted in month. ``

`` It 's got to be one of them, '' John said, `` Why else would your dad get so worry about it ? ``

`` But he could n't even see who it was, '' Matt pointed out, `` It might turn out to be zip. ``

`` 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 way and we 'll be ok. ``

The male child hurried back into the castle and up to Gryffindor towboat. Most of the people around them were talking about the match, but Albus overheard a few the great unwashed talking about his dad 's Patronus.

The Gryffindor mutual room was packed when they entered it. There was a very large radical of multitude in the middle shouting about Quidditch and Albus had no incertitude that Linda was in the middle of it, even if she did n't require to be. Albus did n't see rosiness or Amanda anywhere and figured they were with Linda. Albus had a fade thought that he needed to tell them about what he saw, but decided not to since rosiness was n't speaking with him. He just did n't feel like telling her anything important while she was still giving him the silent treatment. He was starting to finger a bit dejected that it had been going on so long.

Albus and his friends found a tabular array 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 make it hard to beat Australia. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Victor-Marie Hugo sighed, `` Everyone is trying to figure out how she 's so fast. Fred thought she had some sorting of special ling, but she denied it. ``

`` fountainhead, she obviously would n't admit to that, '' Ashtyn rolled her eyes.

`` Maybe rose wine could ask her, '' Lily suggested.

`` I doubt rosebush would do that, '' Albus muttered.

`` Are you still rowing with her ? '' Lily asked.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus said.

`` Why ? nonentity 's told me what your row was even about, '' Lily huffed.

`` It 's not your business, Lily, '' Albus sighed.

`` Come on, '' Lily whined, `` I 'm your sister. ``

`` And I do n't severalise you everything, '' Albus said, `` So cave in it a residuum. ``

`` Can I have everyone 's attention ? '' individual shouted from the portrayal hole.

Albus looked up and saw Neville standing there. Everyone immediately quieted down. teacher rarely went into the common way. In fact, the only meter they did was when something bad happened or when Gryffindor had a spectacular Quidditch win.

`` I do n't want anyone leaving the common room for now, '' Neville said in an unusually strict 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 require us to disclose that data yet, '' Neville said, `` I 'll be back when we know more. ``

Neville left and the common room erupted into whispers. Albus turned to his Friend, who had all turned a few shades lighter after hearing Neville 's announcement.

`` It 's got to be, '' lusterlessness whispered, `` They would n't close us in if it was n't soul unsafe. ``

Albus nodded and swallowed hard. He knew he was perfectly safe in the common room, but could n't assist feeling a bit frighten off.

`` I bet it 's Washburn ! '' person shouted from across the vulgar room.

`` Who 's Washburn ? '' one of the first years piped up.

`` immorality spell teacher, '' someone replied.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn said, `` He tried to kill my brother ! ``

`` Mine, too ! '' Lily put in.

`` And he tried to pour down my babe, '' Victor-Marie Hugo added.

Lily, Ashtyn, and Hugo started telling the early initiative year what had happened to Albus and his Friend. Albus groaned and shook his headspring as all four 11 year olds watched him.

`` indirect request we could go to the room, '' Albus muttered.

`` Let 's go to the dorm, '' John suggested, `` I 'll bet it 's hollow. ``

The boys left the common room ( much to the alarm of Lily, Hugo, Ashtyn, and their growing mathematical group of on-lookers ) and went up to Albus 's residence hall, which was thankfully empty.

Albus, Matt, and John all sat on their seam and Kaden sat on the invertebrate foot of Albus 's. None of them said a Bible. Albus supposed that cryptic down in his psyche he knew Washburn would come back, but he tried not to think about it. He figured Washburn was after the Resurrection Stone. That meant he would n't try and break into the castle, did n't it ?

No, it did n't. Albus 's gaze fell upon his trunk, where the Invisibility Cloak resided. If Washburn still wanted to link the Hallows, he 'd need that cloak. Albus gulped. Washburn was going to try and break into the castle. Albus did n't know when, but he knew it would go on at some point.

******

Harry never returned to the castling to tell Albus what had happened. Neville came back to the common way an 60 minutes or so later and told everyone they were free to entrust if they wanted to, but he did n't break any inside information. Albus and his friends stayed in the common room, hoping Harry would eventually find Albus, but he never did.

The Great Hall was filled with much more chatter than was normal on Monday morning. Albus and his protagonist sat down at the Gryffindor table and St. James 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 front Page article at the same time.

Washburn Sighted in Hogsmeade ; Mysterious Man Sighted in woods

Jameson Washburn, wanted for torturing nonaged
student and the illegal use of Legilimency on an
underage student, was sighted by an anonymous hag
in Hogsmeade yesterday afternoon.

The sighting took place a few hr after the firstly
Quidditch match in the tournament between Hogwarts,
the Aboriginal Australian School of Sorcery, and the Adirondack
honorary society of conjuring trick. The anonymous witch stated that
'a man ran from behind the Hog 's headland up towards the
hills. He looked like Washburn .'

Harry ceramicist, fountainhead of the Auror Department, was on the
Hogwarts soil at the time and reported quickly to
the picture. No signs of Washburn were found and Potter
is sure he had Disapparated quickly.

potter had previously been investigating the Forbidden
Forest, after receiving a tip from a student that
mortal had been lurking around. cypher was found.

Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry went into
lock down after the supposed sighting of Washburn.
scholar were not informed about the spot. The
Auror Department has not said whether extra
trade protection will be given to the school. Currently, an
Auror is assigned to the school at all time, after the
snatch of a educatee by Quinton Willinson ( currently
residing in Azkaban ) last Spring.

'We do n't require people to worry. We 're not even sure
whether either sighting was actually Washburn or not ,'
Potter told reporters.

Albus set down the paper and turned to appear at his friends. There was no doubt in his creative thinker that that man in the woodland had been Washburn. He had gotten away again. For someone who seemed incompetent at just about everything, Washburn certainly was proficient at escaping.

`` I wonder where he 's hiding, '' toilet 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 want to stick around and get caught. ``

`` Yeah, that 's on-key, '' can 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 ameliorate get to grade. ``

Albus was happy that they had forethought of Magical Creatures first because he would be able to go along talking about Washburn as they observed firecrabs.

`` You do n't opine they 'll cancel the Hogsmeade tripper, do you ? '' whoremonger asked once they had walked a safe length away from the Slytherins.

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` They did n't delete them when Sirius escaped from Azkaban. ``

`` I hope they wo n't, '' toilet said, `` They could just have Aurors patrolling the Village. That 'll celebrate Washburn away. ``

`` There are already Aurors patrolling the school, '' matte pointed out, `` So I 'm certain they 'll be patrolling Hogsmeade now, too. ``

`` Just as long as they do n't bring any dementors here, I 'll be happy, '' Albus shivered. He had never actually seen a dementor, but he knew enough about them to fear them.

`` fountainhead, that did n't exactly forge out well when Canicula had escaped, did it ? '' whoremaster replied.

`` I know, but still .... '' Albus 's spokesperson trailed off.

`` Dementors do n't even safeguard 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, '' King John shook his psyche, `` But that 's a adept level. What did bump to them all ? ``

`` That 's one thing my dad never told me, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I 've never seen one either, '' Matt shivered, `` But my dad has. He 's had to dole out with them at work- ''

`` So he knows where they were sent ? '' John interrupted.

`` No, '' Matt shook his capitulum, `` 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 while, they 'll descend on some flyspeck Ithiel Town they come upon. Then some crone or wizard reports it and my dad or someone else from his office would suffer to go discharge them out. ``

`` That would be a atrocious job, '' John said quietly.

`` He hated it, '' lusterlessness replied, `` He 'd get along home all shaky and downhearted and Mum would feed him loads of coffee. Then they 'd go talk by themselves. He refused to tell me and Amy what he hears when he comes across dementors, though. Amy asked loads of times, but he never told. ``

`` My dad wo n't tell me what he hears either, '' Albus said, `` It 's got to be awful. ``

`` Neither of my parents have ever seen dementors, '' can said, `` I think my parents lead relatively normal animation compared to yours. ``

`` No one in my family leads a normal life, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine either, '' Matt agreed.

`` Well, hopefully your dad will bewitch Washburn and Willinson and then you can have a somewhat pattern life, Albus, '' John said.

`` Maybe, '' Albus shrugged.

`` As for me, I like a little excitement in spirit, '' John the Divine grinned.

`` You can have all of mine, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine, too, '' matt smirked.

`` Nah, '' Saint John the Apostle shook his head, `` I 'll ca-ca my own. ``


A/N : Thanks to my 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 fervour of the potential sighting of Washburn in Hogsmeade, Albus nearly forgot about talking to Rose that evening. He was sitting in the commons room trying to read his Defense Against the Dark arts Word when John prodded him.

`` What ? '' Albus looked up at John.

`` Linda just went to Quidditch practice, '' toilet gestured to the portrait muddle, which just closed behind someone, `` We can babble out to rose wine now. ``

Albus nodded and closed his Holy Scripture. He had to admit that he was a bit anxious about telling rose wine that Linda was a vampire. He had a feeling she would n't hire it well. They were going to throw to break down this to her very nicely.

It was n't that Albus was worried that rosiness would be upset that Linda was a vampire. Albus knew that would n't nark 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 reason 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 elbow room and his centre rested on the board Rose and Amanda were sitting at.

Albus walked over to her table with Matt, John, and Kaden following. The two girls looked to be working on homework.

`` Rose, '' Albus sat down succeeding to her, `` We need to talk to you about something. ``

Rose 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 castle. ``

`` It 's not about him, '' Albus sighed, although he had a look Washburn could get into the palace if he wanted.

`` Then what ? '' rosebush said shortly.

`` It 's about Linda- ''

`` Then I do n't need to find out it, '' Rose interrupted.

`` rosebush, it 's important, '' Albus insisted, `` Just come talk to us. ``

`` No, '' Rose said a bit louder, `` I know you lot do n't like her, but I do. And I do n't want you telling me who I can and ca n't be friends with. ``

`` That 's not what we 're going to tell you, '' Albus groaned, `` There 's just something about her you should acknowledge. ``

`` Just talk to them, Rose, '' Amanda said, `` To be dependable, I 'm sick of you ignoring them. ``

Rose looked a bit taken aback. `` All right field, fine. '' She shoved her account book into her bag a bit severely than necessity and stood up.

Albus said null but lead everyone out of the mutual room. nonentity said a Book until they were in the predator 's Den. Rose sat in one of the chairperson and folded her arms across her pectus.

`` What ? '' she asked, `` What do you possibly have to severalize me ? ``

Albus glanced at Matt, who nodded. Albus took a deep breathing space. `` Linda is a vampire, '' he said quietly.

blush wine 's backtalk fell open and then she burst out laughing. `` Are you bloody insane ? How in the name of Falco columbarius did you possibly come up with that dullard idea ? ``

Albus groaned. `` It 's not a stupid idea. It 's true. And Matt told us. ``

pink wine rolled her eyes and glared at Matt. `` Of course. You 're the one who hates Linda the most. ``

`` Rose, it 's true ! '' Matt insisted, `` Do you honestly think that I would just randomly claim individual was a vampire ? For all the dispute between vampires and werewolves, they both get discriminated against. ``

`` Oh, I do n't know. Maybe because you want me to stop being friends with her ? '' Rose shouted.

`` Well, that would be stupid person of me because I know you would n't stop being friends with her because of that, '' lustrelessness said quietly, `` After all, you 're friends with me. Or at least you used to be. ``

`` I still am, '' pink wine 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 make figured it out ? '' blush wine asked, `` I mean, I was the only one to visualise out that Matt 's a werewolf. ``

`` How a good deal do you know about vampires, Rose ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, not much, I guess, '' rosebush said sheepishly, `` But still, how do you lie with ? ``

Albus opened his bag and pulled out his defense lawyers book. He tossed it at rose wine. `` Read the bit about lamia. ``

Rose caught the Quran and opened it up. She began to read it with Amanda reading over her shoulder. A few minutes later, pink wine set the Book down. Her fount was pale.

`` You 're right, '' she whispered and then turned to matte, `` Is that why you do n't like her ? ``

`` sort of, '' matte shrugged, `` It 's not the fact that she 's a vampire. It 's the fact that she knows I 'm a loup-garou. ``

`` Oh, '' Rose nodded, `` And she 's from Australia and Killigan does n't like loup-garou. I get it. But, wait, how descend Killigan lets Linda go to school day but he would n't let you ? ``

`` No idea, '' lustrelessness sighed, `` It 's a mystery. ``

The room descended into an inept silence and Albus looked at all of his admirer. Rose still looked a little shocked and Amanda did as well.

`` So, '' Albus began, `` Are you going to hold ignoring us, Rose ? ``

`` Are you going to let Linda number in here ? '' Rose asked.

`` No way, '' Albus, flatness, John Lackland, and Kaden said at once.

rose sighed. `` amercement. I 've missed you lot, but I am still going to expend time with Linda. I guess I 'll just split my time, then. ``

Albus grinned. `` Good. But next Hogsmeade trip, you 're coming with us. ``

******

Over the side by side couple of weeks, rose and Amanda began spending more and more than sentence with Albus and the other male child. Albus was thrilled about it, especially since after a few days passed, it was like rosebush and flatness had n't rowed at all. cipher ever brought up the matter of Linda, though. rosiness and Amanda both spent time with Linda, usually in the subroutine library, but Albus did n't particularly mind. He sort of like having time to drop just with Matt, John, and Kaden.

St. John and Kaden found it increasingly hard to draw in pranks due to the fact that Hogwarts was being patrolled by more Aurors since the Washburn sighting. instructor, prefects, and the read/write head boy and girl were also patrolling more often than they used to. Albus was secretly glad about this since he had an increasing fearfulness of Washburn breaking into his dormitory to steal the invisibility Cloak. lavatory and Kaden, on the other script, came back to the coarse room ranting about how they could n't pull off some buffoonery or the early due to an Auror or prefect finding them. Matt did n't seem to have an notion on the subject and Albus suspected he would be happy so long as Killigan stayed away from him.

The future Quidditch match was in the offset of December, and although that was still a month away, Wood increased exercise to three days a hebdomad instead of two. Wood was especially tough on James since the future match would be between Hogwarts and Commonwealth of Australia. Mrs. Henry Wood was determined to beat Australia and that have in mind James would have to try and fly degraded than Linda. Teddy was working with him one on one during all the practices.

The next junior dueling tournament was coming up as well and Albus was determined to actually duel during this one. He did n't like if both his stage were broken, he would still go.

Between his respective practices and socio-economic class, Albus did n't have much time for anything else. All his teachers were increasing the oeuvre shipment, especially Balladanis. He started packing more and more into each lesson and had begun assigning each week essays. And since all the lessons were virtual, Albus had to read the book to do the essays. There were no notes from family to use.

Albus and the balance of the students no longer bothered taking their book and parchment out at the beginning of class. In fact, the majority of Albus 's division did n't even bother sitting down. Albus wondered why Balladanis even bothered to put the desks back at the end of class, since he had yet to hear of any of the years having an actual lecture in that class.

Due to this, Albus was completely shocked when Balladanis told the course to sit down at the beginning of Defense in the beginning of November. Albus turned to Matt and whoremaster, who looked equally surprised. Balladanis, on the other hand, was acting like this was perfectly normal.

Albus sat down in between Matt and John Lackland amongst the whisper of the quietus of the class.

Balladanis stood in battlefront of his desk and looked out at the students. There was a tumid trunk in front line of him which reminded Albus of the first day of socio-economic class. But why would Balladanis take a Boggart back to class ? Matt told Albus that Balladanis was n't even using Boggarts in his supporter academic session anymore.

`` Today 's lesson will be part lecture, '' Balladanis announced, `` The reason for this being that the particular beast we are studying today is not in your text book. ``

The course erupted in more whispering and Albus distinctly heard Rose gasp.

`` Settle down, '' Balladanis said, `` The creature is not in your book because it is extremely rare and about wizards will go their entire biography without ever encountering one. Because of this, it is not normally in a third year curriculum. The puppet is usually studied in advanced N.E.W.T. DoD Against the Dark Arts only. I however, believe this wight is extremely beneficial to third yr defense and am adding it in, despite the fact that it is not in your book. ``

Albus was on the edge of his seat now. He was staring directly at the trunk in front man of Balladanis, where the tool probably resided. It could n't be that grievous, could it ? Otherwise, Balladanis would n't induce brought one. Although, there was n't often that Balladanis could do that would actually storm Albus. He was a very odd teacher.

`` The animal I am talking about is an anamatek, '' Balladanis said as he began pacing back and forth in front of the torso. He stopped in front of Rose, Amanda, and Linda 's table. `` Energy anyone know what an anamatek is ? ``

Albus had never heard of one in his life. rosebush did n't put her deal up either. The lonesome hand 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 alter into whatever form the magician controlling them wants, '' Linda explained.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis began pacing again, `` anamateks are very strong and mightily creatures. It takes a very strong and powerful beldame or whizz to control them. Not many are able to do so. But if a Wiccan or whizz can, the anamatek must metamorphose into whatever form the genius wants.

`` This of trend is very dangerous if a sorry genius gets control of one. Can you think if Voldemort had been able to contain a few anamateks and had them transmute into chimaeras ? ``

The entire room was silent. Albus shivered at the thought of an army of chimaeras, especially in the hands of Voldemort.

`` Luckily for us, anamateks are extremely rarified and the majority of wizard ca n't verify one, let alone an United States Army of them. The few anamateks that exist in the existence reside in warm mood and they prefer to stay out of sight amongst tree or bushes. Anamateks are rarely sighted in Britain and I would guess that there are n't more than four or five in the entire country. They are a bit more uncouth in warmer climates such as the Southwestern United States, Latin America, Confederate States United States of America, Africa, and Australia. However, you could research all of these res publica extensively and never come across one.

`` Anamateks do not like wizards because they do not need to be controlled. Not only can wizards check what the anamatek turns into, they can also make it do whatever they please. When they are not controlled, they can change state into whatever they like and usually choose a particularly dangerous brute in order to dissuade superstar from capturing them. They can not, however, turn into mankind, for the almost character. There are exception to that. Certain powerful Wiccan and wizards have had achiever turning them into mankind, but they do not act like humans. No anamatek can turn into a human on its own. ``

Balladanis paused and stopped following to his bole. `` I have captured an anamatek. I captured it many years ago and it has been under my control ever since. Having an anamatek at my administration provides a slap-up con chance for all of you. Can anyone guess why ? ``

pink wine 's hand shot into the air. `` Yes, young woman Weasley, '' Balladanis said.

`` You can have it turn into whatever we 're studying and we can learn to push it instead of having to fight a real one. That way, you can hold in what its doing and none of us will get hurt, '' Rose answered.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis said, `` Before course of instruction, I performed a while 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 business in front of my desk. You will be performing the spell you learned last grade to try and drive the anamatek, which is going to calculate and act exactly like a kappa. ``

`` Sir ? '' Malfoy raised his hand.

`` Yes, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` Sir, are you going to tell us the spell to wreak an anamatek under a thaumaturgist 's control ? ``

`` No, Mr. Malfoy, I am not, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` First, it 's not just one piece, it is a set of extremely hard spells, beyond N.E.W.T. level. instant, there is much argument as to whether the spell are wickedness magic or not. Third, it would be pointless since none of you would suffer the capability of performing such magic and will likely never have the opportunity to perform it. fourth, the headmaster would not be happy if I did so. I will also not sign up any promissory note to accept any of you into the Restricted subdivision of the program library to inquiry the spell. ``

Malfoy scowled at this and Albus stifled a gag. It did n't storm him in the slight that Malfoy would want to pick up the spells. Albus was extremely curious as to how Balladanis managed to perform them, and how he had come across the anamatek in the first off place. Albus doubted that he would tell apart that story, though. Balladanis never talked about his past.

`` Everyone get up ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus hastily stood up and watched as the rest of the class did the same. Rose and Linda shoved their banker's bill into their bags, but nonentity else had bothered to take annotation. The thinking had n't even crossed Albus 's intellect. He was so victimized to not taking notes in Defense.

Balladanis moved the mesa to the sides of the room and Albus joined the queue forming in front of the bole. He stood on his tip-toes and peered around John to try and enchant a glimpse of the anamatek when it emerged from the trunk.

Balladanis pointed his wand at the body and it shot open. Nothing happened for a few sec and then a slimy, scaly kappa crept up over the top of the trunk and climbed out. It stretched out its webbed helping 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 bole and Balladanis nodded at Janie. She stepped to the side and Karina walked forward as the kappa recovered.

The waiting line moved forward and Albus was able to get a soundly face at the anamatek. It looked exactly like a kappa. If Albus did n't screw any better, he would say that it was a real number kappa.

Balladanis made everyone perform the spell until they could do it successfully. Rose and Linda got it on their initiatory tries, but Amanda had a bit of problem. Albus had a touch sensation she would be working with the anamatek in her next special help session. bathroom managed to have winner on his first try and he stepped to the side and Albus stepped forward.

The anamatek crept towards Albus, who held up his sceptre. Kappas did n't really frighten away him in the slightest, yet his core had begun pounding faster. The anamatek is what scared him a bit. The thing had the likely to deepen into something dangerous like a Chimaera at any moment. How much command did Balladanis really have over the matter ?

Albus shouted the spell and the anamatek was thrown back against the bole and landed with a aloud crack.

`` Very sound, Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis smiled ever so slightly, `` A few of the rest of you might care to take note of hand of the force Mr. ceramist put behind his spell. A specify kappa would have been able to recover very quickly from most of your spells. Mr. Potter, on the former bridge player, would have been able-bodied to escape if this had been a real kappa. ``

lustrelessness 's routine was following and Albus stood succeeding to John Lackland to catch him. The kappa was only slightly deterred by Matt 's first trance and he had to try about three clock time to get it to work.

`` Now I know what Balladanis is going to have me do tomorrow night, '' lustrelessness whispered to Albus as they watched Malfoy learn on the kappa.

Malfoy sent the kappa slamming into the trunk with almost as much effect as Albus had, earning him a slight smile from Balladanis as well.

`` Where in the name of merlin did Balladanis get that matter ? '' John exclaimed after they 'd pass on the classroom.

`` No mind, '' Albus shrugged, `` But I wish he 'd tell us. ``

`` He wo n't, '' Matt sighed.

`` I know, but I still want to sleep with, '' John said, `` And what did he do for a living before this ? I mean, I do n't think teachers normally come upon anamateks. ``

`` Probably not. I do n't suppose my dad has ever seen one and he 's an Auror, '' Albus pointed out.

`` They are extremely rare in Britain, '' blush wine ran up succeeding to Albus, `` I bet Balladanis lived in some other country before he started teaching here. Africa or Commonwealth of Australia or one of those topographic point where anamateks are more common. ``

`` Yeah, but they 're not exactly common in those places either. My dad has n't seen one either and he worked with magical brute in Commonwealth of Australia for year, '' Matt said.

`` I 'm surprised Kendrick lets him accept that affair in the school, '' 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 third yr, but second and fourth through one-seventh year as well. The green room was filled with chatter about it after dinner, as well as extremely jealous first age. Lily, Victor-Marie Hugo, and Ashtyn whined about not being able-bodied to see it.

`` Are you ready for Quidditch practice, Al ? '' Georgia said to Albus as Lily and her Quaker left.

Albus looked up. Georgia 's look was white and she looked more than a fiddling frighten. Albus stared at her curiously.

`` Yeah. But, Georgia, are you ok ? ``

`` I 'll be fine, '' she assured him, `` Balladanis had that anamatek matter turn into a dementor during class right before dinner. We spent the entire category trying to cast Patronuses against it. Let me tell you, that anamatek was just like a dementor. '' Georgia closed her eyes and shuddered.

`` You should have some chocolate, '' Albus told her and pulled a chocolate batrachian out of his bag. He tossed it to her.

GA caught it and ripped it undefended. `` Thanks. Let 's go find James II. ``

Albus said adieu to his friends and went to go find William James with Peach State. He felt a bit unsettled that Balladanis had used the anamatek as a dementor. Having it turn into a kappa was one matter, but a dementor ? They were really dangerous. As far as Albus knew, the Patronus magical spell was n't actually practiced on dementors until Auror training. component 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 genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome multitude 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 course. Albus really thought Kendrick would have made him get rid of it. The course of study continued practicing on it and after a few academic term 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 Chimera or something else really dangerous, Albus did n't mind.

Practicing on the anamatek was a lot like practicing dueling anyway. That 's how Albus saw it. Defense classes were beginning to be a lot like dueling practice. Albus was very happy about this, especially since the future dueling tourney was quickly upon him. It took spot on a Saturday in the heart of November, the day before the instant 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 Philip Warren Anderson said as she walked past tense Albus, `` Or you wo n't duel in the next tournament. ``

Malfoy scowled and Albus smiled to himself. He sat down and looked to the front of the room. The usual dueling rings were set up and Neville was standing in front of one. Balladanis was standing in front line of the other one. He must have been chosen to be the other professor in bearing of the dueling ball club since Albus 's dad left.

The tournament began a short while later and Albus sat back to await for his turn. As practically as Albus loved dueling, he could n't stand having to wait while everyone else dueled. He could n't wait until he was a twenty percent year and could try out for the regular dueling ball club. The squad were much minor for that and Albus would get to duel more during each tournament. If he made the squad, that is.

`` Albus ceramicist 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 induce to duel Kaden ? Albus had yet to duel any of his cousins.

Albus got up and walked towards the hoop. Kaden was already there when he arrived. Albus and Kaden bowed to each other and then raised their wands.

`` Menachem Begin, '' Balladanis said.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his wand at Kaden while silently apologizing to him. He really did n't want to duel Kaden.

Kaden 's wand flew from his paw and Albus caught it. Albus looked up at Balladanis. Balladanis was looking at Albus with his piercing stare and Albus quickly looked away.

`` full point to ceramist, '' Balladanis said without taking his oculus off Albus.

Albus handed Kaden back his baton and went back to his team 's table. Lynley and Amanda congratulated him and he sat back down.

`` I ca n't trust 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 tournament. The lone person who Albus ever had difficulty dueling was Malfoy, and he was on Albus 's team.

Albus was n't really thinking often about having to duel Kaden. He could n't get the look Balladanis had given him out of his intellect. It was sort of like the looking he 'd received in form, only more intimidating. There was a mite of curiosity mixed in with something Albus could n't account. 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 future and he dueled James. It was a very fast-paced and exciting duel. In the end, Malfoy managed to demilitarise Epistle of James. Albus had no idea how he felt about this. piece of him was happy that his squad got the point, but on the early hand, the thought of his brother losing to Malfoy was rather unsettling.

James had a mutinous look on his face as he grabbed his wand out of Malfoy 's outstretched hand. He stormed back to his table without a second glance at Malfoy or Balladanis.

Albus looked back to Balladanis and saw him giving Malfoy the Saami odd look he had given Albus earlier. Albus had no thought what to make of that. Balldanis had n't looked at anyone else like that.

The future soul Albus dueled was a bit more challenging, but Albus still disarmed her within three instant. She was a twenty-five percent year Ravenclaw who had the report of being the smartest of all the fourth years.

Balladanis gave Albus the same unusual look as he awarded him the point. Albus quickly gave the daughter back her wand and went back to his table.

Albus 's squad narrowly won the tournament. Lynley congratulated everyone and said the integral team had improved greatly since the last tournament. Albus and Amanda got up and joined the throngs of masses leaving the room. They headed up to the rough-cut room, where they had agreed to meet their acquaintance after the tournament.

`` Good job, '' John said as he sat down next to Albus.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` I mean, you beat me jolly quickly. ``

`` Albus is the topper duellist out of all of us, '' Matt said as he joined them.

`` Balladanis was certainly matter to, '' 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, '' Rose said as she and Linda sat down.

`` I 'll bet it 's because you 're both such respectable duellist, '' matt replied, `` I hate to admit it, but Malfoy is really good. ``

`` Did you see St. James 's face after Malfoy beat him ? '' trick laughed, `` That was pretty funny. ``

`` I do n't think Epistle of James would harmonize with you, '' Albus smirked.

`` fountainhead, we should probably do some homework, '' rose said.

Everyone groaned but nonentity disagreed. Albus went up to his dormitory room and returned with his books. He cracked open his Herbology book and started an essay that was due on Tuesday.

`` You 're from Australia, are n't you ? ``

Albus 's promontory snapped up. Linda was staring curiously at Matt, whose eyes were darting about. Everyone else was now staring at Linda. Albus did n't think he had ever heard her talk outside of class.

`` Er, why do you remember that ? '' flatness asked nervously.

`` The former day after denial, 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 move ? '' Linda asked.

`` My dad 's job, '' mat said.

`` Oh, '' Linda replied, `` Well, if you had n't, we could have gone to shoal together. ``

Matt mumbled something under his breath.

`` What ? '' Linda asked.

`` goose egg, '' Matt said and closed his book of account, `` I 'm, er, going to the library. ``

Albus closed his own book of account and got up to follow flatness, but he had already left. Albus sighed and looked at Rose, who was slowly shaking her head. That was exactly why flatness had wanted to stay away from Linda and Albus could n't charge him.

The residue of the afternoon was spent in muteness in the common room. Albus managed to polish off his Herbology essay just before dinner party. He had no musical theme if Matt actually went to the library, but found him in the Great Hall at dinner. He made no honorable mention of what Linda had said, so Albus did n't bring it up. Albus only had enough time to eat a quick dinner anyway, because he had Quidditch practice afterwards.

******

`` All right field, that 's enough for today, '' Balladanis announced as the bell rang the watch Tuesday, `` entrust your essays on my desk on your way out. ``

Albus stowed his baton in his robes and rummaged around in his bag for his essay. For some reason, Balladanis always collected essays at the end of form. Albus had no idea why. All the other instructor collected them at the beginning, presumably to forestall pupil from frantically scribbling their essay during class the day it was due. That would be unacceptable in Balladanis 's division, though.

`` ceramist, Malfoy ! '' Balldanis shouted, `` Please see me before you leave. ``

`` Looks like you 're getting supernumerary assistant, 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 meet them in Herbology. His heart started beating a bit faster as he placed his essay on the cumulation and stood in forepart of Balladanis 's desk. Why did he want to see him anyway ? Could Balladanis really think he needed supernumerary assistant ?

Malfoy tossed his essay onto the megabucks and then leaned up on Balladanis 's desk as he watched the rest of the course leave.

`` bandstand up, Malfoy, '' Balladanis said as he shut the anamatek 's trunk and walked over to his desk.

Malfoy jumped and quickly stood up straight. Albus stifled a laugh and turned to Balladanis, whose cheek was expressionless.

Balladanis walked over to the door, shut it, and returned to his desk. `` I could n't assist but comment that both of you won both of your duel live Sat. ``

`` I always win both of my affaire d'honneur, '' Malfoy said pompously.

`` I thought so, '' Balladanis replied, ignoring Malfoy 's to a lesser extent than respectful spirit, `` I 'm assuming the same goes for you, Mr. Potter ? ``

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus nodded.

`` Have either of you ever been defeated in a affaire d'honneur before ? ``

`` I 've disarmed Potter during practice, '' Malfoy smirked.

`` And I 've disarmed you, Malfoy, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

`` Any other sentence ? '' Balladanis asked.

Albus opened his mouth, 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 former times, '' Albus replied.

`` I could have defeated Washburn, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I sincerely doubt that, '' Balladanis said, much to Albus 's pleasure, `` But that is not what I have asked to discuss with you. I have noticed, both in class and during dueling tourney, that the two of you seem to own surpassing skill when it comes to dueling. You 're dueling acquirement appears to be much higher than the third or even fourth year level.

`` Therefore, I would like to train both of you privately. There is only so very much you can see in a large group with those whose skill is to a lesser extent than your own. I will be able to teach you tour you would n't normally con until one-quarter or fifth class. Are either of you interested ? ``

`` Of track, '' Malfoy said immediately.

Albus could n't trust it. His family and friends always told him he was an first-class dueler, but somehow having Balladanis narrate him mean more. Balladanis was incredibly severe to please, and not only did he call up Albus was a slap-up dueler, he was offering to teach him more advanced trance. That was incredibly exciting. Albus would be able to instruct spell that Saint James the Apostle had n't learned yet.

`` Yes, I 'd wish that, '' Albus grinned, thinking it would be magnificent to beat James in a duel.

`` I shall see you on Friday at eight, then, '' Balladanis told them, `` After I am done tutoring the LE skilful in your family. '' He pulled out two firearm of composition 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 room feeling that Friday was an incredibly long time away. buck private dueling example. He could n't wait. for certain, they 'd be with Malfoy, but Albus was willing to put up with him in order to get a line advanced spells.

Albus hurried to Herbology, but the class was already well into that day 's lesson by the time he arrived. He handed his notation to Neville and then sat down adjacent to flatness, who was shoveling dirt into an abandon pot.

`` What did Balladanis need ? '' lusterlessness asked.

`` You 're never going to believe this, '' Albus said as he pulled on his gloves, `` Balladanis wants to give Malfoy and me buck private dueling lessons. He wants to teach us advanced tour that we would n't normally ascertain until fourth or fifth yr. ``

`` You 're kidding, '' lusterlessness said in awe.

`` Nope, '' Albus grinned.

`` But why ? '' Matt asked, `` Did he say why he 's teaching you ? ``

`` Just because he thinks we 're good dueler, I guess. ``

`` fountainhead, you are a good dueler, Albus, '' matt agreed, `` When do you bulge out ? ``

`` Friday at eight. Right after your help session, actually, '' Albus answered.

`` I 'm not going to the help sitting this week, '' flatness lowered his vocalism, `` And you 'll be having loads more fun than me. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Albus whispered, remembering that the full moon was Friday night, `` I 'll let you recognise how it goes, though. ``

After Herbology was over, Albus told John, blush wine, and Amanda about Balladanis 's dueling lessons 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 remnant of the week seemed to sneak by at a flobberworm 's pace. It was n't like Albus did n't own anything to keep him meddlesome, but he just could n't call up about anything former than the dueling moral.

`` Albus, you 've got to finish tapping your quill, '' Rose said shortly, `` It 's driving me mad. ``

Albus and his Friend were in the predator 's Den. It was Friday evening and dinner had just ended. Albus was trying to concentrate on preparation, but it was n't working. Rose and Amanda were both reading. Linda had mysteriously disappeared after her last class and Rose and Amanda had been with Albus and the other boys ever since. John the Divine and Kaden were discussing a prank that involved charming gobstones to follow the Aurors and prefects around as they patrolled the corridors. Rose had already advised against this, but John and Kaden did n't listen. Matt was laying on the couch with his eyes closed, but he was n't numb. whoremonger and Kaden kept asking him thing and he 'd react with very short answers.

`` Sorry, '' Albus muttered and dropped his quill.

`` So where 's Linda tonight ? '' whoremaster asked.

`` I dunno, '' Rose shrugged, `` She did n't appear that great today, though. ``

`` Then she 's probably sucking some beast 's rip in the forest, '' Matt announced.

`` Well, there 's a adorable picture, '' Kaden said loudly, `` Linda biting the neck of some helpless brute and sucking the life out of it. recollect of all the line. It must get all over her face and neck. That 's pretty gross. ``

`` Thanks for that image, Kaden, '' flatness replied.

`` It 's honorable than her sucking human blood, '' Rose pointed out.

`` That 's true, '' Kaden agreed, `` So, should we make full the gobstones with stink sap before we charm them ? ``

`` Of course ! '' John Lackland grinned.

`` And that 's my cue to lead, '' flatness 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.

`` wealthy person fun, '' Kaden said.

`` Fun, '' Matt muttered on his way out, `` That 's a word I 've never used to draw it. ``

`` We 'd better go, too, '' Amanda said.

`` Yeah, time to go sit through an duplicate vindication object lesson, '' Saint 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 piece, '' John sighed as he and Amanda left.

Albus worked on his homework for the next minute, mainly because there was n't anything else to do. move up was working on her own homework and did n't look to require to do anything else. The hour dragged by at an incredibly irksome rate, but eventually Albus packed up his books, said arrivederci to Rose, and left for Balladanis 's room.

The door was half-way subject when Albus arrived. He took a deep breath, suddenly overcome by cheek, and knocked lightly. There was no reply. Albus pushed the doorway spread out and walked very slowly inside.

The room was dim. The only illumination stemmed from a few blowtorch lit on the bulwark. It was obviously the Saame classroom he had defensive structure socio-economic class in, but it looked completely unlike in the even.

There was n't anyone left in the room from the special Defense lesson earlier. Albus had passed John and Amanda in the corridor. They both wished him full luck.

Albus looked around the elbow room and saw the trunk that contained the anamatek sitting unnaturally still in front of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis himself was also sitting unnaturally still at his desk. He stared directly into Albus 's eyes and Albus, remembering the Occlumency deterrent example he received two age prior, quickly averted his own eye and began to close his mind.

`` You know Occlumency, Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis said not as a inquiry, but as a statement.

Albus nodded as Balladanis slowly rose from his chair and walked around to the front of his desk. Albus took a stone's throw back and nearly collided with the figurehead table. He swallowed nervously and kept his eyes off of Balladanis.

Albus had always been a little wary of Balladanis, but now he had to admit that he was a bit daunt. The only way for Balladanis to know that Albus had been practicing Occlumency was if he had actually been performing Legilimency. Albus had enough experience with instructor performing Legilimency on him and he did n't require to do go through that again. The merely thing Albus was thinking about then was how he could depart the room without Balladanis getting suspicious. He wished he had a vomit 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 first base and probably only time he would ever wish Malfoy to be present.

`` Hermione Weasley, '' Balladanis mused, `` Yes, she is one of the most accomplished Occlumenses of her coevals. ``

Albus 's chief snapped towards the door as he heard footfall enter the elbow room. He breathed a sigh of relief and had to stifle a jest at the fact that he was happy Malfoy was in the room.

`` Mr. Malfoy, you 're late, '' 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 chairs. Malfoy took his time in sauntering over and sat in the electric chair next to him.

`` Mr. Potter. Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis began to stride in presence of them, `` By now I am sure you are both aware of my position on the Dark Arts. If not, I suggest paying a bit more attention in class.

`` You may also be cognisant of my idolatry to helping the scholar who are struggling in my classes. I hold extra assist sessions every single day after dinner party. However, I also wish to avail those who are truly talented to arrive at their dead on target potential.

`` You two are the most talented duelers in the third yr, '' Balladanis paused and looked at each of them in the eye, `` I would fence that you are the most talented dueller amongst the students below fifth year. I would even wager that you could yield a duet of the 6th yr a run for their Galleons. ``

Albus stared at Balladanis. He did n't think he was that good of a duellist. He knew he could beat virtually of the students in the Junior 's Dueling nightspot, but sixth years ? They were doing N.E.W.T. Defense classes. They knew spells Albus had never even take heed of.

`` I would n't go picking scrap with sixth yr, though, '' Balladanis continued, `` They know spells you do not. What I mean is that you have the talent to learn magic spell that the sixth years are learning. The magic spell I am currently teaching in course are incredibly simple for the two of you. What I hope to do is teach you spells that are more than at your level. Now, stand up, the both of you. Let 's see what you can do. ``

Albus stood up and pulled out his wand. He had no idea what Balladanis wanted him to do. Would they be practicing on the anamatek ?

Balladanis waved his baton and the desks moved to the face of the classroom. Another wave and the lighting increased. `` I would like you to duel each other. Use any magic spell that you have learned in schoolhouse. 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 offstage with missing limbs. hold on going until I say to check. ``

Albus could n't believe it. He was getting to duel Malfoy ! He had been wanting to do that ever since Kendrick had first announced the dueling club. The minuscule praxis duel they did were n't really what he had wanted to do, though.

Albus raised his wand and stared at Malfoy. Malfoy was smirking and pointing his sceptre at Albus. The two of them bowed and Albus took a gradation forward.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his baton at Malfoy.

Malfoy easily dodged the spell and sent a tickling hex at Albus. Albus threw up a shield and then tried to demilitarize Malfoy. Malfoy jumped onto a nearby desk and the spell collided with a chair which collapsed.

The duel continued in this subject for quite some metre. Albus tried as hard as he could to actually hit Malfoy with a turn, 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 class and how much he wanted to get him in this duel. If he beat Malfoy, he 'd have something on him for the rest of the year.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted for what must accept been the 10th time.

Malfoy dodged it and sent the Lapp turn 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 intact. He found one and collapsed into it. That affaire d'honneur had been exhausting.

`` Well, that was certainly interesting, '' Balladanis gave a rarified grinning, `` Not a lolly on either of you but my classroom has been destroyed. It seems that I was not premature in my judgment 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 abrupt change in conversation. Albus had never thought about liveliness beyond Hogwarts. He was only thirteen. 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 matter to. ``

`` Indeed it would, '' Balladanis said, `` Your father certainly is happy with it. How about you, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` No idea, '' Malfoy replied.

`` There are many matter you can do with dueling acquisition such as yours. I would paint a picture looking into it, '' Balladanis said.

`` But sir, we 're only when third years, '' Malfoy scoffed, `` Is n't it a bit early ? ``

`` I already knew what I wanted to do at thirteen, '' Balladanis said quietly.

`` And what is that exactly ? '' Malfoy asked.

Balladanis gave Malfoy the unusual aspect Albus had ever seen. It was a combination of sadness, choler, and superbia.

`` I do not wish well to discuss that, '' Balladanis said, `` Perhaps you will find out someday. For now, I think it dependable we call it a night. If you wish to learn advanced spells, return at this time next week and we will get down. ``

`` 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 narrate Mr. Eckerton that it will not do for him to skip his extra help sessions. ``

`` But sir, '' Albus looked at him incredulously, `` You know what tonight is. He could n't possibly have got gone. ``

`` The moon did n't rise until after the sitting was over. I do not take alibi. ``

Albus sighed to himself as he left. Balladanis had been teaching him for over two month and he still surprised Albus all the time. Albus had seen a different incline of him that nighttime. He did truly hate the dark artistry, that was something Albus did not doubt. But he had also performed Legilimency on him. Albus did n't think he could ever desire a teacher that did that. Not after his experience with Washburn.


A/N : To do a common motion people have left in reappraisal, I came up with the anamatek, but based it off of boggarts in the HP series. Thanks to my 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 teach you ? '' was the first affair matt asked Albus when he went to see him the following afternoon.

Albus had given every piddling particular about the evening to his early friends once he returned to the dorm room afterwards and they were print. bathroom 's for the first time chemical 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 lustrelessness, who looked exhausted but was paying enraptured attention. `` I dueled Malfoy. ``

`` Wow, '' mat looked impressed, `` How was that ? ``

`` Neither of us won, '' Albus sighed, `` Balladanis made us give up because we pretty much destroyed his classroom. ``

`` I wish I had seen it, '' John chimed in, `` Bet the look on Balladanis 's face was priceless. ``

`` He just looked ingrain. He was n't angry or anything, '' Albus told them, `` Then he asked us what we wanted to do with our aliveness. ``

`` Like what variety of job you want to get ? '' matt raised his eyebrows, `` You 're only thirteen. ``

`` Yeah, I thought it was strange, '' Albus shrugged, `` But he said I should cerebrate about doing something that would put my dueling acquisition to use. ``

`` Like an Auror ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` I do n't opine so. I mentioned that and he kind of made it seem like that would n't put my dueling acquisition to use. ``

`` I ca n't think of any other job that you 'd duel more than than that, '' Matt replied.

`` I have no mind what I want to do with my life, '' Kaden announced.

`` Me either, '' Saint John said, `` I say we 've got plenitude of time to forecast it out. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Madam Pomfrey stuck her head in between the curtains, `` And you certainly do not have to cypher it out now. It 's fourth dimension for you lot to leave behind. ``

Albus, John, and Kaden reluctantly left the infirmary annexe, lamenting the fact that Madam Pomfrey had n't let them stay very long. They had no idea why the nanny had shortened visiting meter so much, considering that Matt had n't seemed worse than usual, but they never understood why Madam Pomfrey did most of the things she did.

******

Albus 's week could be easily summed up in two words. Quidditch and homework. Normally he would only complain about the latter, but Oliver woods was like a Muggle drill sergeant when it came to Quidditch. Since the match was on Sabbatum, Oliver was insisting on daily practices. Albus and the early alternates had to be at every drill because according to Oliver, 'you never know when individual will get barf or enchant right field before a match .'

In fact, Oliver even wanted them to practice on Friday night, the night before the match. Albus was n't too happy about this since he had his lesson with Balladanis at eight. That was the same time Quidditch recitation let out, so he had to run to the Defense schoolroom still completely covered in mud from practice.

He ran into the schoolroom ten minutes late, nub pounding with worry about what Balladanis was going to say.

`` Mr. Potter, you 're late, '' Balladanis said as Albus entered the room. He and Malfoy were sitting at the front desk.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Albus said as he joined them, `` Quidditch practice. ``

`` So I gathered, '' Balladanis eyed Albus 's muddy gown, `` I was just telling Mr. Malfoy about the responsibilities that come with learning advanced dueling enchantment. ``

Balladanis pulled out his wand and pointed it at Albus. Albus 's robes were clean 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 while I teach you here in the junior dueling tournament. It would give your team an unfair advantage and you could inadvertently injure your opponent. The trance I teach you are not to be used outside this schoolroom, unless I instruct you otherwise.

`` You are not to duel your cuss scholar in the corridors with these spells. Nor are you to use them against your sibling and full cousin, '' his eyes rested on Albus.

`` I also feel the need to warn you that these magic spell are more exhausting than the 1 you have been learning. They use a lot of wizard Energy Department and do not be surprised if you feel as though you have just run a battle of Marathon, '' he turned to Albus again, `` Or played in a very foresightful Quidditch match. ``

Balladanis stood up and gestured for the son to do the Saami. Once they did, Balladanis moved the desks aside and stood in between where Albus and Malfoy stood.

`` I am going to make you act on your shell charm first- ''

`` I already love how to do a shield charm, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I am well aware of that, Mr. Malfoy, and I do ask that you not question my teaching style, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` The cuticle charms you have been using are relatively washy and fade away after only a few spells are cast against them.

`` With a funfair bit of practice and genial concentration, one is able to hold back the carapace up for long periods of meter in order to close up multiple spells. Really skilled duellist can even keep the shield up while casting other enchantment. That is quite utile, as you can reckon. It is also possible to harbour a neat many people with just one person 's shield appeal, which is also very useful. Some carapace charms can even protect one against magical brute attacks, '' Balladanis lowered his voice and averted his eyes at this, which Albus thought was odd.

`` It takes a lot of absorption to maintain hold of a buckler charm for so long, which is why the appealingness can be unmanageable. I doubt either of you will produce a foresightful term shield tempt tonight, so do n't be disappointed. Wands out, both of you, and we 'll see how hanker you can arrest the good luck charm, without any patch hitting it. ``

Albus held up his wand and muttered the conjuration for the shield charm. He had practiced this appeal numerous time before, usually with somebody else trying to hex him at the Sami time. It was quite easy to just hold it there and even kind of boring. He and Malfoy just stared at each other and Albus doubted that either of them were going to spend their shields. It would be like admitting defeat to the other.

After what must have been at least ten minutes of holding the shield charm, Albus found he was getting tired. His arm ached from holding his wand up and from throwing so many Quaffles at practice earlier. Malfoy had the vantage since he did n't have Quidditch practice. practically to Albus 's dismay, he noticed his shield starting to fizzle. He was n't going to be able to deem it much longer and Malfoy 's still looked strong.

Balladanis looked at his lookout man. `` Let the cuticle go, '' he instructed, `` Wands down. ``

Relieved, Albus lowered his weary hired man and then sat down in a chair. Balladanis was right when he said advanced shell were exhausting.

`` Very good, '' Balladanis said, `` Stand up again. Now I 'll see how many spells each of your shields can resist. ``

Albus and Malfoy both put their shields up again and Balladanis sent disarming charm at both of them. Albus could sense his shield faltering after the low gear magical spell and did n't think it would last as long as Malfoy's.

Albus 's shield fizzled out after three good luck charm. Malfoy 's dismantled after four. He had the braggart smirk on his case afterwards, but did n't say anything. He probably did n't need to gloat in battlefront of Balladanis. Albus knew he 'd hear about it the next time they had a year together, though.

If only he had n't had Quidditch exercise ! Then Albus would bear 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 feeling that he looked absolutely exhausted.

`` Looks like I 'm the better dueler, '' 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 beat you in a real duel. ``

`` And I could pound both of you, '' a Slytherin Prefect, who was making his round of drinks, said as he walked by, `` So get to your dormitories. ``

Albus had no estimate if he could baffle the Prefect or not but he did n't want to stick around around to lose house tip. Plus, it was a safe excuse to stop talking to Malfoy.

******

The excitement that filled the Great dorm the adjacent morning reminded Albus yet again of the old year 's Quidditch final exam. Only this was n't a terminal. It was the Hogwarts versus Australia peer, the number 1 match Hogwarts was going to play in.

The Hogwarts team did not sit together at breakfast or lunch. There was considerable argument at exercise the previous Nox about this. Joseph Oliver Sir Henry Wood, John Tyler state highway, and Teddy all wanted the team to sit together in rescript to nip in last second strategizing, but nonentity could agree on which table to sit at.

In the end, Teddy sat with the Gryffindor role player at the Gryffindor tabular array, Tyler sat with the Ravenclaw players at the Ravenclaw board, and Oliver walked from table to table giving out final stage minute advice. Albus thought this worked out delicately since Joseph Oliver did n't appear to be able to sit still for more than a minute.

Albus was kind of relieved that cipher on the Hogwarts team came down with Spattergroit or lost a fingerbreadth in potions class because he did n't really need to play. He loved Quidditch, but so a good deal was at stake. He wanted to merely watch over the first friction match that Hogwarts participated in. Then, if right before the future compeer, one of the Chasers came down with a cold and Madam Pomfrey forbid them from playing, Albus would gladly direct their place.

The fervour only increased as Albus and his friends walked to the tar. rose wine 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 !"Todd Smith 's voice boomed over the crowd,"Hogwarts is playing its first gear mate in the Cup and they are up against Commonwealth of Australia ! The Hogwarts team is captained by Oliver wood with aid from Ted Lupin and Tyler state highway !

"The squad is comprised of Georgia Weasley as Keeper ; Damien Waverly, Anna Reilly, and Ferris fielding as Chasers ; Andy Kaper and Allie Davis as Beaters ; and James ceramist as Seeker.

"The prominent excitement in this match is whether James ceramicist will be able to flap Australian Seeker Linda Morales, who shocked everyone with her speed and agility in the terminal couple. Potter, of path, is the son and nephew of legendary Gryffindor seeker Harry thrower and Charlie Weasley. He is also being coached by Gryffindor 's former legendary Seeker, Ted Lupin, and is on his way towards becoming another caption in the house of Gryffindor."

"Not being very small-scale about James, is he ?"Rose muttered to Albus.

"No, not really,"Albus replied, glad that he was n't in Epistle of James 's position.

"The chieftain shake workforce,"Ian Douglas Smith continues,"And they 're off !"

All fourteen players, half in emerald light-green Australian robes and half in opprobrious Hogwarts ace, rose into the air. Whoever decided on the semblance must not have been thinking about visibility. If it was a rainy, snowy, or hazy day, you would n't be able to tell the departure between the two colors.

The catch was fast-paced like the first one had been. All of the Hogwarts thespian were superb and as far as Albus could recount, equally matched against Australia.

The squad were tied fifteen minutes into the match, each with 120 peak. The Quaffle exchanged hands so often that Albus had a hard metre keeping up. pink wine had already given up and was talking to Amanda about something. Matt, John, and Kaden were all trying to hold on up with the match.

It happened so fast that if Albus had blinked, he would birth missed the whole affair. Linda had been hovering above the Hogwarts goal posts and then she shot down towards the terra firma, pulling out of her nose dive with the lucky Snitch in her grasp. James had been next to her and was a few metres above her when she caught it. Just like that, in a issue of irregular, the compeer was over.

"Linda Morales has captured the stoolie, which means Commonwealth of Australia wins 270-120,"Captain John Smith announced LE than enthusiastically.

"She caught it ?"John gaped,"But she was above the goal posts two irregular ago !"

"No one can fly that fast !"Albus agreed.

"It ca n't be over !"flatness exclaimed,"It just started twenty minute ago !"

Everyone around Albus was talking about how fast Linda flew to the Snitch. Albus and his acquaintance descended onto the sales pitch and Albus quickly lost them in the sea of masses. He pushed his way through the crowd until he found his team.

"They 've got to be cheating !"Andy Kaper shouted to Teddy,"They 've rigged her broom or something !"

"All the brooms were fully checked before the match,"teddy bear reminded him.

"wellspring, mark off it again !"Andy exclaimed,"There 's a speed spell on that thing, I guarantee it."

"We 'll have it checked again,"Wood 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 ill-timed with that broom,"Wood sighed.

"I want an unofficial flying contention between her and James,"Damien Waverly said,"There 's no way she 's a better broadsheet than he is."

James was the alone one not talking. He appeared to be in shock. The entire team was shouting around him, but he did n't seem to hear any of it.

"Saint James ?"Albus asked tentatively.

James jumped and looked at Albus without saying a word. Then he trudged off to the changing way. No one else noticed that he left.

No one had noticed Albus show up either, so he joined the gang of mass going back up to the rook. He figured it would be easier to talk to the St. James once he returned to the plebeian room.

The common room was ominously mute when Albus walked through the portraiture hole. Most people were sitting, staring into quad, and not talking to anyone. It was a vista more fitting to someone just dying than a lost Quidditch match. None of the Australian 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 plebeian room.

Albus 's protagonist were sitting at their usual table and Albus joined them. arise and Amanda were whispering to each other, but John and Matt were mum. Kaden was rifling through a stack of chocolate frog cards.

The match had been the definition of anti-climactic. Hogwarts had spent weeks preparing for it, working every day well past when the sun set. preparation had been ignored and studying put off. All so Hogwarts could outfox Australia. Then, Linda Morales had caught the Snitch twenty instant into the match. Linda Morales, the solitary one who had managed to outflank James II ceramicist at Quidditch.

"You know,"Kaden set down his cards,"If James I and Linda had a kid, he or she would be the just seeker in the world."

nonentity responded. Albus thought it would be more potential to turn just friends with a chimaera than James and Linda to get marital and have a kid. Not to mention the fact that vampires could n't bear children. Kaden probably did n't know that, though.

"I just do n't get it,"whoremaster mumbled,"She must 've cheated."

"You just do n't want to intromit that Hogwarts might not have the safe Quidditch histrion in the world,"Rose muttered.

"Let 's go to the Marauder 's Den,"Matt whispered as he stood up.

Albus did n't know why Matt 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 elbow room. Everyone must throw been lamenting the Quidditch loss in their common rooms.

"Finally,"Kaden said as he collapsed onto one of the sofa in the room,"Now we can actually speak. The common elbow room is depressing."

"What do you wait ?"John groaned,"We lost our first Mach. We 're in finally place."

"No, we 're not,"rosebush said,"New York lost to Australia with only 40 points. They 're in last place."

"Does n't matter,"John shook his caput,"We still lost."

"No one 's ever going to flummox Australia,"Albus sighed.

"You 're probably right,"lusterlessness said darkly,"Remember the finish 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 mates proves that incorrect. She 's using the fact that she 's a vampire to her advantage."

"That 's completely unfair !"lav shouted,"Why would Kendrick let her do that ?"

"He obviously does n't get it on,"Rose sighed.

"So, she is cheating,"Albus said.

"Technically, she 's not,"matte replied,"She 's just really skilled at Quidditch. Vampires, and werewolves, have really keen eyesight in order to,"he paused,"Catch quarry. She 's meliorate at seeing a sneaker than any human."

"Then why do n't you run Seeker against her !"Kaden exclaimed, grinning at the idea,"That would be Sir Thomas More fair."

Matt burst out laughing."You did n't see me at flying lessons in for the first time year. I 'm an fearsome flyer. surely, I could see the stoolie, but I 'd fall off my broom trying to captivate it."

"Oh,"Kaden deflated.

"summation she 's super fast,"John pointed out,"And Matt 's not. No offense or anything."

"None taken,"Matt said.

"So, what are we going to do about this ?"Albus asked,"If she does n't stop, Commonwealth of Australia 's going to win this competition."

"I think rose wine should talk to her,"Saint John the Apostle suggested.

"Why ?"Rose asked.

"Because she likes you and you like her,"John said,"Just tell her to fly a little slower."

"Yeah, right,"Rose rolled her oculus,"Believe it or not, she 's about as fanatical about Quidditch as you lot are. No way is she going to agree to that."

"It 's dependable,"Amanda agreed.

The room descended into silence. The only former thing Albus could think of to do would be to order Kendrick that Linda was a vampire. That would get her off the Aboriginal Australian Quidditch team for sure. However, Albus did n't really want to do that. pink wine would hex him to next one C and she 'd probably never verbalise to him again. It would be a lot like if rose told someone matt was a werewolf and if that happened, Albus would have the Saame reaction. Not that rosiness would ever do that.

They stayed in the vulture 's Den until dinner. dinner was much to a greater extent subdued than normal and Jesse James never made an appearance. Linda was sitting at the far end of the Gryffindor table with only fellow Australian near her. That form of surprised Albus since he had never once seen her interact with anyone besides Rose and Amanda.

"Albus,"someone put their hand on Albus 's shoulder.

Albus turned around and saw his dad, wearing the same forlorn tone all the students were wearing.

"Dad,"he said,"Were you at the match ?"

"Yeah, I was sitting with Lily,"Harry nodded,"Have you seen James IV ?"

"Have n't seen him since right after the mate. He went into the changing elbow room. Actually, I have n't seen teddy either. Maybe he 's with James."

"Merlin, I hope so,"Harry ran a deal through his hair,"I 've checked everywhere I can think of. shuffling me care 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 adios to his friends and walked up to Gryffindor tower with his dad. He ran up to his dormitory once he was there and retrieved the map. The dormitory was hollow, so Albus and his dad looked at it there.

They scoured the Hogwarts department of the map for nearly five proceedings before coming to the termination that William James was no longer in the school.

"Bloody hell,"Harry muttered,"Where did he go ?"

Albus pressed the number two in the box of the map with his wand and the map of Hogsmeade appeared. This one was a bit more unmanageable to search than the Hogwarts one had been. Most of the Hogwarts students had been in the Great Hall. Everyone was spread out in Hogsmeade.

Two dot made Albus freeze. Two Transportation were in the screeching hutch. A closer look told him they were Teddy and James. Albus gasped. Why were they there ? How did they get in for that affair ?

"Dad,"Albus pointed to the screeching Shack.

"The screaming Shack ?"Harry shouted and stood up.

Albus followed him out of the dormitory and then out of the uncouth elbow room."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 large variety of counter-charms. One of them was bound to work on that tree diagram. Now, he was n't supposed to use them outside of training, so I really have no clue what he was thinking,"Harry explained

It had gotten cold and visionary away since the couple, which really made Albus question why Teddy and James would go to the Shrieking Shack of all lieu. The decrepit old edifice had no heating system, for pigeon hawk 's sake.

Albus dodged a limb from the Whomping willow as they neared it. Harry aimed his verge at the rear end and muttered the counter-charm. Then he froze the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. Albus hurried after him into the passageway.

The walk to the Shrieking Shack was brisk up and silent. Albus, who had been on the receiving end of many a lecture from his dad, knew that both Teddy and St. James were going to get one once they made it to the Shack.

Harry carefully opened the door and walked into the pipe down old building. Hushed articulation could be heard from the back room. Albus followed his dad back there.

shimmy and James were both sitting on the floor. James looked a staring slew, still wearing his muddy Quidditch gown and his face was all blotchy. Teddy did n't await much better, although his gown were a bit cleaner.

"Teddy. James,"Harry said sternly when he entered,"What in the gens of pigeon hawk 's pant are you doing in this shoes ?"

Both boys snapped their heads up at the sound of Harry 's voice.

"Trying to convert St. James the Apostle not to make the biggest mistake of his life story,"Teddy muttered.

"That sounds a bit overdramatic,"Harry said.

"He wants to throw in the towel the Quidditch team,"Teddy said dryly.

"That is the most idiotic thing I 've heard,"Albus shouted,"You ca n't do that !"

"Albus,"Harry warned.

Albus shut his backtalk, but he still thought the very idea of James IV quitting the team was genial. They 'd have no hope of ever beating New York, let alone Commonwealth of Australia, without James.

"20 minutes, Dad,"James said in barely more than a voicelessness,"twenty minutes."

"We 've all had our bad matches,"Harry said quietly as he sat down next to St. James the Apostle,"I fell off my Scots heather in my third year and lost a match."

"Because of the dementors,"James muttered,"There were n't any dementors at this match."

"James, I 'm afraid everyone has made you out to be the invincible quester. Sweeney Todd 's comment today proved that. The interest are set so high up with you that when you do fall behind a equal, it completely shocks everyone. It 's kind of unfair, actually, because cipher can win every match,"Harry replied,"You 're not the unbeatable Seeker, I 'm afraid. And running away will get you nowhere."

"I suppose,"St. James sighed.

"You 're playing New York next,"Harry reminded him,"They lost to Australia sooner than we did. I think you have a chance at catching the snitcher then."

"I guess,"James II replied.

"So you wo n't quit ?"Albus asked, unable to keep repose any longer.

"No,"Saint James the Apostle said.

"trade good. Because Lisa Galivant is nowhere near as beneficial 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 better one."

Albus nodded, wishing that he could just distinguish James why Linda was so good. 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 cable are awesome.

I 've written a new Sung dynasty 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 control it out, that would be awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


On their way back to the castle, Harry gave shift and Saint James the Apostle that lecture Albus had been expecting him to give. Albus walked a little ways behind them. Far enough to make them conceive they had privacy, but close plenty that Albus could try what they were saying.

Harry made it earn that he was not instill that teddy was taking advantage of the charms he was learning in training. In fact, Harry said if he caught Teddy doing it again, he 'd have to report it.

Then he told James that the Shrieking Shack was well out of boundary and that if he went in there again, he 'd describe Epistle of James to professor Longbottom. Albus doubted either of them would set foot in the place again.

"Why did n't you just go to the Room of essential if you wanted secrecy ?"Harry asked before leaving James IV and Albus in the Entrance Hall.

shimmy and King James I looked at each other and then laughed."It was otherwise occupied,"Teddy grinned,"Fred 's got himself a girlfriend. They were enjoying the seclusion of the elbow room of Requirement."

Harry smiled and shook his head."Next prison term, just ask Neville if he 'll let you mouth in his study. I 'm sure he will. I 'll see you boys after term is over, then."

Albus and Jesse James said adios to their dad and Teddy and then walked back up to Gryffindor Tower in silence. James was obviously still upset over the peer and Albus did n't need to say anything to make it worse.

"They 're doing a full investigation of Linda 's broom !"rose announced when Albus found them in the common room. Saint James had gone directly up to his dormitory.

"Yeah, Wood 's just told us,"John continued,"Stripping it down, plus they 're interviewing the Australian captain, headmaster, and everyone on the squad, including Linda."

"Wow,"Albus was impressed. They would n't find anything, of course, but it was still overnice that they were taking this seriously,"Wish it would actually help."

"Me, too,"John agreed,"So where was James ?"

"The Shrieking Shack,"Albus whispered.

matt dumped his ink bottle all over his preparation and swore."How 'd he get in ?"

"He was with Teddy and Teddy knows the counter-charm from Auror grooming,"Albus said quietly,"But he was n't supposed to use it outside of grooming, so my dad told him if he does it again he 'll get in trouble. Do n't worry, neither of them will go in there again."

"Still, of all the stead they could 've gone ..."Matt 's voice trailed off.

"Why were they there ?"Rose asked as she siphoned the ink off of mat 's homework.

"King 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 years where the front page clause of the prophet was about a Cy Young wizard who had graciously volunteered his time in the close Barbara Ward at St. Mungo 's or an senior witch who passed away, leaving her fortune to her cats.

That is, if it were n't for the fact that the Department of Magical biz and fun and the Department for International Magical Cooperation doing an all out investigating on the Aboriginal Australian school of black magic 's Quidditch team, Linda morale and her broom in particular.

Albus was quite shocked to see the lengthy article by Rita Skeeter on the front page. He hardly ate any breakfast as he read it out tacky to his friends before classes.

The Aboriginal Australian School of Sorcery : Did They Cheat ?

In a competitor of Quidditch and dueling, which reminds
many a witch and champion of the thrilling and slightly
more dangerous Triwizard tourney, accusations came
yesterday of whether the team from Australia cheated.

A couple was held between the Hogwarts and Australian
team yesterday afternoon and was over in twenty minutes.
The score was 270-110, in favor of Commonwealth of Australia. Linda
Morales, 13, of Australia, caught the Snitch in what
some masses believe to be an impossibly fasting speed.

"It was like one min she was flying above the pitch
and I blinked and then she was on the ground with the
snitch in her script,"one Hogwarts educatee said.

Many former students and a few stave member recalled
the Saame thing. The many witnesses of this near
impossible flying have fueled the investigation.

If it is discovered that Australia used any charms,
potions, oath, hexes, 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 regain,"Ian
Herkimer, of the Department of Magical Games and
Sports, said late yesterday,"On the one manus, it
is nearly out of the question for a thirteen year old girl
to fly that fasting on the Scots heather she was using. On
the other hired hand, all the broom used in this
competition were extensively searched for charms
before the match. It could very well be that young
Linda esprit de corps is just an exceptionally full
Quidditch participant. If that is the case, then scouts
from professional person teams may bid to pay attention
to this competition."

Perhaps the most intriguing part of this floor is
that the Hogwarts quester is none other than James
Potter, son of the legendary Gryffindor Seeker
Harry ceramist. 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
or his Fatherhood were available for comment.

Is Linda Morales a slicker ? Or is she merely the
future greatest Quidditch adept ?

"Great,"Albus set down the paper,"First she 's going to win this competition and then be drafted to play for Puddlemere United."

"We do n't induce to worry about her playing for the shank,"Gospel According to John smirked,"That would get rid of their awful reputation."

"That would be a bad affair because ... ?"Matt said.

"I would n't get to make fun of them anymore,"John grinned.

"Not a bad affair,"Matt replied.

The total shoal was talking about the article all day long. Everywhere Albus went, someone was discussing it. Most likely due to this, James spent the day in his dormitory.

"Why 'd Skeeter receive to stay put Saint James the Apostle in that article,"Albus lamented as he, Matt, toilet, and Kaden wandered the corridors. rosiness and Amanda had gone to find Linda, to see if she knew anymore item about the investigation.

"Because she 's Rita Skeeter,"can said,"She never writes an article without sticking your dad in it somehow."

"I know. Rita Skeeter 's atrocious,"Albus said.

"There are a few reporters in Australia who could give her a run for her money,"Matt muttered.

"So irresponsible !"a hushed representative said from a classroom they were passing.

Albus stopped. He did n't recognize the articulation 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 slim ice !"the man was saying,"offset she catches the Snitch ten proceedings into the low match and now she flies too fast for people to see and beats James Potter ? Now there 's an investigation for Falco columbarius 's saki !"

"I did n't recognise she was going to do that !"another man said,"I made it clear to her that she could only fly slightly amend than the other thespian !"

"Told you they were cheating,"privy whispered.

"We were n't the ones arguing with you,"Albus replied,"That was Rose."

"The feller doing the shouting is the Australian headmaster,"lusterlessness said.

"The other one 's probably the chieftain, then,"Albus said.

"Well, you must not cause told her enough because now she 's on the front Thomas Nelson Page of the seer and the Ministry is investigating ! Do you have any idea what 's going to pass off if anyone finds out ?"the headmaster raised his voice.

"Of row I do !"

"Let me refresh your storage anyway. We 'll both be fired and Australia will be out of the competition. Inferno, we 'll be favorable to get away with fines and no jailhouse fourth dimension !"

"That would n't be a bad thing,"John muttered.

"You hear that ?"the master barked,"somebody 's out there."

Albus turned in panic to his friend and before he could run, the threshold opened all the way and Albus was staring at who he assumed to be the Australian Quidditch captain. The man was tall and rangy, the perfect body-build for a Chaser. His hair was messy in a way that reminded Albus of his father, but this man 's haircloth was light brown.

The headmaster appeared behind the man, along with a ugly looking boy who must 've been around Teddy 's age. Albus assumed he was the supporter captain.

"wellspring, who have we here,"the headmaster smirked.

Albus was frozen in stead. The back of his judgement said to run, but he could n't get his ramification to wreak. He was staring the bloke who was so prejudiced against wolfman that he refused to let Matt attend his schooltime in the face.

"You 're the Potter boy,"the headmaster continued,"The immature one."

Albus forced himself to nod only because he did n't really want to be mistaken for James at the moment.

"That means ..."Killigan 's eyes moved from Albus to John, Kaden, and then Matt,"That one of you is probably,"his eyes rested on mat and then he smiled,"The Eckerton boy. I was told you were here."

Albus turned to look at matt, who was now almost as white as professor Binns. Albus shook his read/write head, grabbed mat 's arm, and took off running. The footsteps behind him told him that trick and Kaden were following.

Albus did n't give up 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 the Evangelist asked Matt once they shut the room access,"He has n't seen you in years !"

"Lucky surmisal,"Kaden shrugged.

Matt shook his nous."No. None of you lot have blonde hair."

"But still, how does he know I 'm friends with you ?"Albus asked,"Of all the blonde haired students here, he picked you. He somehow knows we 're friends. Remember, he said 'you must be the thrower boy', which is n't abnormal. Everyone knows who I am. But then he said 'which means you must be the Eckerton boy .'Someone 's telling him about you."

"So much for trying to ignore him,"lusterlessness groaned,"Now he knows who I am. Falco columbarius knows what he 's going to try to do now."

"Why does he even care ?"Kaden asked,"I thought he did n't want you at his schooltime. If he hates werewolves so a lot, would n't it lay down more than sense that he brush aside you ?"

Kaden had a point. Albus had n't really thought about it before, but it was kind of strange that Killigan would be so concerned in Matt. But then, why would he let a vampire take care his schooltime ?

"That actually makes a lot of sense, Kaden,"lustrelessness said,"Why does he deal ?"

Albus did n't know, but something told him it meant nothing good. Whatever Killigan was doing here, it went inscrutable than just trying to win a Quidditch tournament by having a vampire for a Seeker.

******

It took the Ministry three solar day to dispatch the probe. During this time numerous Ministry officials appeared at the schoolhouse and held interviews with Killigan, the Aussie captains, and the Australian histrion. They even interviewed Saint James the Apostle, King Oliver Wood, Sweeney Todd Julia Evelina Smith, and prof Kendrick. Albus heard that every ling on the Australian team had been stripped and checked for illegal magic.

The results were announced before Rita Skeeter wrote another article. A Ministry official read them at dinner Wednesday evening.

"Upon confining inspection of all the Aussie broomsticks as well as extensive interviews with everyone involved, the Ministry is able to say that Linda team spirit 's seizure of the Snitch was a solvent of pure natural endowment and goose egg illegal. I thank you all for your cooperation during this fourth dimension,"he said and then resumed his seat next to Kendrick.

The Great foyer erupted in angry shouts. Everyone was staring at Linda and it looked like she wanted to disappear. Rose and Amanda were sitting on either side of meat of her and pink wine was whispering to her.

Albus and his acquaintance were n't expecting anything unlike, but they had to act angry for appearance 's sake and it was not difficult to do so.

Kendrick eventually had to abide up and tell everyone to quiet down. It worked, but nobody stopped talking about the results.

It was still potential for Hogwarts to win the competition. If they won every match from now on and continued doing well in dueling. The rival was n't even half over, so there was pot of time to pull ahead. However, the chances of doing so were low so long as Linda was playing searcher for Australia.

The relaxation of the week passed with continual Quidditch discourse. James I was still abnormally subdued and sat quietly with Ben, Cedric, and Nate every eventide in the mutual elbow room. Albus was hoping it would fluff over during the holiday. It was strange seeing his chum so quiet.

There was a Hogsmeade visit that Saturday and dead on target to her Word of God, Rose went with Albus and his friends instead of Linda.

It was a particularly cold and bullying winter day with a unshakable snowfall that had already dumped six column inch on the grounds. This was n't nearly enough snow to keep citizenry out of Hogsmeade and all the store were full moon to capacity.

Kaden had begged Albus to give him the map so he could sneak in, but Albus refused. The Hogsmeade visit before Christmas Day seemed too bad. Too many students went on that one. The Valentine 's Day one would be punter, when the other educatee were too absorbed in their beloved lives to notice a second class in Hogsmeade.

"Let 's go get Butterbeer first,"Amanda suggested as they made their way into the Greenwich Village,"I 'm already freeze out solid."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed.

The tercet Broomsitcks was already packed, but they managed to find a tabular array 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 year,"John said,"She 's done Christmas at our house since she and my dad got married and it 's finally worn her out. The funny matter is that none of my aunty really know what to do, so my mum is doing as much piece of work as she always does."

"I ca n't imagine Christmas not being at the Burrow,"blush wine said.

"Me either,"Albus replied as he set down the Butterbeer,"The tunnel is just so Christmasy."

"Believe it or not, but I 'm not going to Australia for Christmas this year,"flatness announced.

toilet 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 Head of the Department of the Regulation and Control of Magical tool. He officially starts on January second. But the Ministry is throwing a fancy political party for him on New class 's Eve. He did n't really want it, but they insisted. So, we 've got to go to that. Hopefully it 'll be better than the company my grandparents have."

"Rose and I will probably go to that, too. My dad 's always invited to those things since he 's head of the Auror Department. My unanimous category goes to them. There 's always something to do, especially if James is feeling particularly mischievous. Rose 's parents get invited, too. So does my Uncle Walker Percy,"Albus explained.

lusterlessness grinned."Well if you lot are there it wo n't be bad."

"This political party 's going to be anything but oil production,"Albus grinned.

"Never thought I 'd care I was going to a fancy party,"John sighed,"How about you, Amanda ? Any parties ?"

"Nope,"Amanda laughed,"Just expenditure prison term with my family."

They finished their Butterbeer and went back out into the snowfall. Honeydukes was their first stop, where Matt proceeded to buy sufficiency chocolate to feed all of Gryffindor. His excuse was that it was for Christmas present, but Albus doubted as to whether the chocolate would ever make it home.

Honeydukes was really too crowded to stay in very long, as were well-nigh of the early shop class. They wound up just wandering up and down High Street until they got to the shrieking Shack.

After a very brief snowball fight Rose suggested they just go back to the school and drop time in the Marauder 's Den. cipher argued since they were all cold and wet from the snow.

******

The next two hebdomad went by in a blur for Albus. It seemed like he just went from one Quidditch practice to another, with dueling drill and object lesson with Balladanis thrown in. Albus had started making progression with his cuticle charms, but so had Malfoy and neither of them were salutary than the other.

At their last deterrent example of the terminal figure, Balladanis reiterated how important it was for them not to practice while at home. He then told them to consume a estimable 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 term ended. Everyone seemed much more sharpen on getting a few weeks off from school than a confounded Quidditch match. This helped render Saint James the Apostle to his normal ego and he finished off the terminus with his usual pre-holiday prank.

This one was a trivial less harmless as he just charmed the suits of armor to sing Christmas Christmas carol at random sentence of the day. Of course, the carols were alternated with 'Hogwarts will win the Cup'and 'Hogwarts is better at Quidditch than Australia'and 'Hogwarts will beat New 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 cook to go home. Albus wondered for a moment what it would be like to stay at shoal 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 friends found a compartment towards the spine of the train and settled in for the long journey.

"What are the Aboriginal Australian and American English nestling doing for Christmas ?"Kaden asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"Some of them are going home, but about are just staying at Hogwarts. Linda 's staying,"Rose told them.

"I bet it was Linda,"John muttered absentmindedly.

"What ?"Albus asked.

"Linda. I 'll bet every Canute the Great in my scoop that she 's the one who told Killigan who Matt was,"Saint John explained.

"You 're just mad at Linda for winning the catch,"blush wine rolled her eyes,"She did not tell Killigan."

"Why not ?"Albus asked,"He 's her headmaster. Why would n't she tell him ?"

"I do n't bonk. I just do n't suppose she did,"Rose muttered.

"Even that does n't explain why Killigan wanted to lie with,"Amanda pointed out.

"Which means we have to encounter out,"Albus said.

"Find out what ?"Matt asked sleepily. The wide 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 sentence we spied on him,"Albus explained.

"Oh,"Matt said as he leaned his heading against the window,"How are we going to do that ?"

Albus did n't know. All he knew was that it could be elusive and there was a big chance of them getting in trouble. An unsettle silence fell upon the compartment. No one knew how they were going to get answers.

"Do you believe Linda 's teammate know she 's a lamia ?"Kaden asked towards the end of the journey.

Albus, who had been drifting off to catch some Z's, lifted his headspring up."Good question."

"They do n't,"Rose resolve,"They just think she 's really good."

"Interesting,"Albus said,"I bet she would n't be allowed to diddle professionally."

"She would n't,"John confirmed,"Vampires ca n't bring professional Quidditch. It 's unfair to the ease of the teams."

"I 'd pay a lot of money to see two teams of lamia playing Quidditch against each other,"Albus grinned.

"You would n't be able to see them,"John laughed,"They 'd be flying too fast."

"I 'd like to see vampires play football,"Kaden announced.

"Of course you would,"whoremonger rolled his eyes.

The boys spent the residual of the trip-up discussing vampire Quidditch while Rose and Amanda played Muggle menu plot. Before prospicient they were in London.

All of their parents were standing together on the platform. Albus said a quick goodbye to lusterlessness before his parents hurried him out of the station.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome the great unwashed who have read and reviewed this !

For those who are concerned, I posted a sort of epilogue/short sequel to In moonlight 's trace. It 's called lifespan Amidst the Moonlight and is on my author 's page.