Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower.
Weasley phratry Tree is in the source 's Note at the bottom.


molly Weasley did n't make bold attend to dinner party until after the Quidditch catch had been completed because even she did n't have the power to drag Weasleys away from Quidditch. Teddy secured a win for his team by practically stealing the Snitch out James 's grasp and then everyone was off their brooms and sitting at the orotund crowd of table in record time. After all, Quidditch was one of the best things one could do to evolve a big appetite. Albus was certainly quite hungry and in a very thoroughly humor as he had been on shift 's team.

Albus and Rose sat next to each former in the center of the group of tables and unfortunately Percy sat directly across from them. other experience had taught them never to sit near Percy due to his habit of talking political science during dinner, something that even bored rosebush. The two of them looked at each former as Hotspur sat down and Albus readied himself for political conversation rather than Quidditch talk.

"I 'm telling you,"Walker Percy said to no one in item as he served himself some Daucus carota sativa,"something 's going to hap. I guarantee it. It 's been too placidity in the Ministry lately. Personally I thought thing would get a bit riled up endure twelvemonth when Bruno Walter Eckerton took over for MacVicar, but I suppose the two of them had similar thought. more standardised than I expected anyway ..."

Leave it to Percy to try and retrieve something wrong with the Ministry when all was amercement, Albus thought. He reached over Rose to grab a steak and kidney pie and served a heaping part onto his dental plate.

"What do you believe, Harry ?"Sir Henry Percy turned to Albus 's dad, who happened to be sitting succeeding to him."Any stirrings in the Auror department that I may not sustain heard about ?"

"Things are pretty tranquillize, Percy,"Harry replied.

"Of course they are. I would 've heard if they were n't,"Walker Percy decided.

Albus was n't exactly sure what his uncle Harry Hotspur actually did at the Ministry. He knew it had something to do with the Minister, but his actual title was so long and complicated that Albus never bothered to remember it.

"fountainhead, it 's an election year,"Hotspur pointed out."things never stay lull during election years. Party announcements come first calendar week of Sep and after that things will be chaotic around the Ministry. Loads of work to do. Let me tell you, when I run for Minister-"

"Oh, here we go again !"Ron said loudly."When Harry Hotspur runs for Minister. It 's never gon na happen, Perce. Honestly."

"I would vote for you, Percy,"mollie assured him."You would make a fantastic diplomatic minister. But this dinner party is supposed to be about the kids. James ! And Ben and Cedric ! This is your O.W.L. year ! You three are going to do so wonderfully but you must calm down a bit and study."

"granny, really,"James II muttered."We 're going to be hearing this from the teachers. Uncle Percy, why do n't you tell us more about your running for parson ?"

"wellspring, as a topic of fact."Percy stood up."I have a rather sex annunciation to pretend and I feel I must assure my family first, before the rest of the Wizarding World."He paused, presumably for dramatic effect."I will be formally announcing on Mon, Sep second that I will be running for pastor for April 's election."

There was right-down silence for about five mo before a whole lot of things happened at once. Ron, George I, and Charlie burst out laughing. Hermione raised her eyebrows as far as they could go. Ginny, Bill, and King Arthur all shouted loudly"Seriously ? ! ”. Molly shook her head slightly and then jumped up from her president, running towards Harry Hotspur and finally enveloping him in a declamatory hug and kissing him squarely on the os frontale.

"Oh, Percy !"she exclaimed."I 'm so gallant of you ! You 've been talking about it for years and I think it 's richly meter you actually did it. I always wanted a son who was this successful !"

"Mum !"Ron groaned."It 's not like your other boy have n't done anything. I 'm an Auror for Merlin 's interest !"

"And you 're a fine well one, Ronald, but I ca n't ever see you being curate. You just do n't take in the ambitiousness Percy does,"molly said as she patted him on the shoulder.

atomic number 79 was exchanging custody at the other end of the table. Cedric was grinning madly, so Albus assumed he had won some sorting of bet involving when Walker Percy would run for minister of religion. That bet must birth been in the works for years.

Albus was personally stunned. He of course had been on the receiving end of many a Percy rant about what he 'd do when he ran for minister of religion, but he had always believed Percy would n't ever do it. If Albus was honest with himself, he did n't really need Hotspur running. His family was famous enough without having an actual pastor in it.

"Honestly, Mum, do you think he 's really going to win ?"Ron exclaimed."I mean, do n't get me amiss, Hotspur, I 'll vote for you, but what about the balance of the wizarding mankind ?"

"Percy, do you really think you 're cut out for this ?"Harry asked skeptically.

"Why would n't I be ? I 've been involved with the Ministry for decades !"

"I think what Harry 's trying to say is that you 're all bark and no bit,"broadside pointed out.

"I am not !"Percy shouted."And I would 've expected more support from my own family."

"We are supporting you,"Molly assured him.

"Boys,"Chester Alan Arthur warned."Harry Hotspur 's rightfulness. If he wants to run for Minister he can without any of us making it difficult for him. You do n't feature to vote for him, but I wo n't experience you arguing during dinner. You 'll disturb your mum."

Everyone resumed their seats but Albus doubted they stopped talking about Percy running for parson. They just continued to do so in crushed part. For once, Albus was felicitous he had chosen a stern near Percy.

"Do you have intercourse who else is running ?"Hermione asked.

"Not sure,"Harry Hotspur replied."Hartwell 's not running again, if that 's what you 're getting at. He 's had adequate. But I 've got his backing. After all, I am the Senior Undersecretary for the drafting and redaction of constabulary to the Minister."

So that 's what Percy 's title was, Albus thought. He had no idea if that was a attitude that had a lot of power or not, but apparently it was enough to pick up backup for a Minister run.

"Hey, Dad,"Empire State of the South shouted from a little ways down the board."I figure this is as good a time as any to distinguish you that I 'm moving out tomorrow."

Harry Hotspur choked on whatever he was eating."You 're what ?"

"Moving out. You know, leaving the snuggle. I 've got a flat with a friend finisher to the pitch. It 'll be more commodious, for work."

"Work,"Hotspur muttered."If Quidditch can be considered work."

"flavour, I know how these elections work. You 're going to want to score yourself wait like a family line man, so you 're not going to want to consider me your crazy girl who only plays Quidditch and has no job. So you 'd better pop cerebration of me as your daughter who 's the new stockpile keeper for the Kenmare Kestrals. It 'll vocalise honest to the press."

Percy stared at her with his mouth agape love. He shook his heading slightly and resumed eating, without another word to Georgia. Georgia looked smug, so Albus assumed she had won that little argument.

Albus turned to pink wine and grinned. Empire State of the South certainly knew how to constitute Percy 's running for diplomatic minister study to her reward.

"Rose, have you heard from Linda yet ?"Albus asked, deciding not to join the rest of his mob in political conversation.

"Not yet."rosebush shook her forefront."Her mum might have wanted her to expect a bit after they settled in Canada, though. Have you heard anything about what the Ministry 's doing about Lubar ?"

"If anything 's changed Dad 's being really unruffled about it,"Albus answered.

"It 's so amiss, though, that he can completely get away with what he did,"rosiness muttered."It 's like I could go to France, rob a bank, get back to England, and I 'd get away with it."

"You 're robbing a coin bank ?"James shouted.

"Of class not,"rose replied."It 's none of your business."

Albus and rose did n't risk talking about Lubar for the remainder of the evening. trusted, the rest of their fellowship fuck about what had happened but neither of them wanted to discuss their hypothesis with any of them.

The remainder of the even was rather out of character for usual Weasley family dinners. All the previous eld'dinners had consisted of talk of the town of Hogwarts and the adults exclaiming how big everyone had gotten and how everyone was growing up. Usually whomever was starting Hogwarts for the first time would get a bonny bit of attention, but this year Angie, who was starting, seemed to be forgotten. Instead all of the attention was focused on Percy. The grownup were talking politics and Albus 's older cousins were placing stake on whether he 'd win or not.

John Rowlands was the initiatory to bequeath as he had to go back to Romania the conform to good morning. Charlie and Katherine had finished their year in Romania and had returned to England permanently the late month. Victoire and chemise left shortly after that since they both had to work the next day.

Percy was still discussing drive tactics with Corrine, who was smiling and nodding the way Albus did when his full cousin were smaller and he had to affect he was occupy in what they were saying, when Albus 's parents decided it was time to allow for. For the outset sentence in his aliveness, he was actually felicitous to leave and get back to Grimmauld berth. The before school dinner party was supposed to be about everyone who was at Hogwarts, a time to deliver fun all together before school started, and this time it had n't been that. It had been about Percy.
******


By some stroking of luck or miracle that had never descended upon the thrower before, King James I had packed his trunk the dark before they left for school. Albus was indisputable that some sort of Revelation was going to get soon because Walker Percy running for parson and the Potters arriving early for the Hogwarts express mail were two events that nobody ever thought would happen. Albus did n't question it, though. Instead he just used the opportunity to his advantage.

Kaden, who had met Albus at Platform 9 ¾ prior to going through the roadblock, was not early, so the Potters went through without him. Rose and her phratry were already there of course, so Albus said a quick goodbye to his parents before getting on the gearing to ascertain rose wine. With any luck his ally would n't be there yet and he could speak to Rose alone. Usually there was nothing he would n't talk to his champion about, but the strange impression he had had about his household was something he only wanted to talk to rosiness about.

Rose was alone in a compartment about halfway down the train, reading one of her new textbooks. It was Arithmancy and Albus did n't have the tenuous idea what any of the symbolic representation in it meant. He chose the prat future to her and waited for her to be done reading whatever it was she was deciphering.

"I 'm witnessing a miracle, apparently,"Rose said after setting her book down.

"James packed in conclusion night,"Albus answered.

"Again, I 'm witnessing a miracle."She laughed."Your mum is lucky if James packs earlier than five minutes before you leave."

"It 's definitely odd,"Albus agreed."Listen, do you get the spirit matter are changing ?"

"Changing ? Like what 's happening with Willinson and Lubar and their lot ? Yeah, I think so. It 's been over three days, Al, and they still have n't gotten all of them in Azkaban at the like time. I know they 're really dolt when it comes to dueling but I think they 're overbold than anyone 's giving them credit for. thing are going to alter, Al. The world 's getting scarier,"Rose said quietly.

Albus swallowed hard. That was in the back of his mind of form, but he had never voiced it before. Nor was it what he had set out to talk to Rose about.

"I guess,"Albus replied."But I was n't really getting at that. I was thinking about our family."

"Oh,"was all rose said. Both cousin-german sat quietly for a minute before she continued."I know what you mean. What was up with that dinner at Gran and gramps 's ? It was all Harry Hotspur. O.W.L.s were mentioned once and no one said anything about Angie starting Hogwarts."

"I know. It was odd. It just seems like everything 's changing. There are less of us at Hogwarts now so I guess that 's what 's going to happen-"

"There 's still a lot of us here,"blush wine interrupted."And Eddie and the Gemini have n't even started yet. Plus it 's not like we even talked about Teddy, Victoire, Stanley, and Empire State of the South. We talked about Harry Hotspur for Merlin 's sake !"

"What do you recollect will happen if he wins ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't get it on. I do n't think things will change political-wise but I think it 's going to be really weird for Peach State and Omar Nelson Bradley and Cedric. Even the similitude will probably be effected. I mean, having your dad be the most crucial person in the wizarding world has got to be stressful."

"Tell me about it,"Albus muttered."Can you think if my dad ran for parson ?"

"Percy would n't stand a chance."

"Dad 'll never run, though,"Albus pointed out."I just think that things are already unlike from shoemaker's last year. Everyone 's going to be focused on Uncle Hotspur 's campaign."

"Things never stay the Lapp, Al,"Rose said.

"What 's not staying the Lapplander ?"John asked as he entered the compartment, followed by Kaden."I 'm hoping you 're talking about my soothsaying St. Mark, Rose, because my parents nearly murdered me this retiring summer when they saw it."

"I think we 'll just have to administer with your murder, lav, because that St. Mark is not getting any higher,"Rose replied.

"Seriously, what were you talking about ?"Kaden asked as he sat down across from Rose.

"zero,"Rose said quickly.

"I 'll separate you once Matt and Amanda get here,"Albus said, figuring he 'd tell them about Harry Hotspur running for Minister.

"This is going to be the best class ever !"Kaden said excitedly as he pulled a art object of parchment out of his bag."Look, it 's my Hogsmeade permission shimmy !"

"Excellent,"John replied."Now I do n't have to buy your dungbombs for you."

"Do you really have to buy dungbombs this year ?"Matt asked as he entered the compartment."They 're so nasty."

"Just for the Slytherin vernacular elbow room,"lavatory assured him."Our end is to figure out how to get a few in there."

"Not going to work,"Amanda said as she entered and sat down on the other position of rosiness."You ca n't get into someone else 's common elbow room unnoticed."

"That 's what Albus 's cloak is for,"Kaden said.

"Not if it 's going to smell like dungbomb after,"Albus said.

"Told you we should ingest just asked for his cloak without telling him what we were doing with it,"King John told Kaden.

Kaden shrugged."All right, everyone 's here. narrate us what you and heighten were talking about before any of us got here."

"Fine."Albus took a deep breathing time."well, my Uncle Percy 's running for Minister."

"Seriously ?"whoremonger replied.

"Cool !"Kaden exclaimed.

"Why ?"Matt asked.

"Is n't he the one who 's been talking about doing that for years ?"Amanda asked.

"Yes,"Albus answered."He 's seriously scat, it 's not that cool, I 'm honestly not surely why, and yes he 's been talking about it for years."

"Why does n't your dad run ?"Kaden asked.

Albus and rosiness both burst out laughing."Because that 's the last matter he 'd ever want to do. He would n't want anymore power than he 's already got. Whereas Walker Percy, all of my uncles have always said is kind of might hungry,"Albus replied.

"Do you have sex who he 's running against ?"Amanda asked.

"Have n't a clue,"Albus said."They 're supposed to be announcing the candidate on the second."

"What 's that got to do with everything changing ?"Kaden asked.

"It 's our household,"Rose said quietly."Uncle Percy is so focused on the election and it has n't even really started yet. Georgia 's got it all figured out. Hotspur 's going to pretend he 's completely happy with her Quidditch acting just to urinate himself seem like a mob man, which he 's really not. He 's always been focused on work."

"That 's stupid person,"John said."Georgia 's not going to wish that."

"She 's the one who brought it up,"Rose pointed out.

"He 's right, you know,"Amanda said.

"What do you mean, he 's correct ?"Albus stared at her. She had a knowing smile splayed across her face.

"You, Rose, and mat are n't the sole 1 of us who have kinsperson in political sympathies,"Amanda said.

"But you 're a Muggle,"toilet replied.

"I never said the Ministry of thaumaturgy, John. I meant the Muggle Ministry. My uncle 's the undercoat minister."

Albus continued to stare at her. Amanda was always rather quiet and rarely talked about her sept. He always figured that was because she was so hushed and never guessed that it might be because her mob was just as influential in the Muggle macrocosm as his was in the wizarding human beings.

"Michael Smythe, that 's my uncle. He 's my mum 's brother,"Amanda elaborated."Imagine my mum 's surprise when she told him that I was a witch only to get hold out that he already knew about the wizarding world."

"So if Percy win ...,"Albus began, his voice trailing off.

"He 'll meet my Uncle Mike,"Amanda finished."But as I was saying, Georgia does have it all figured out. If word gets out that Percy and her rowed about her Quidditch playing, it 's going to come in off amiss in the printing press and lose him vote. So, he 'll preserve it to himself and will be in the front row of every single one of her matches, pretending to be a huge Kenmare Kestrals fan."

"Wow, that seems so wrong,"rosebush muttered.

"It 's politics from the other side of meat. The public wants people in power to induce a certain image."

"Still, it 's like lying,"blush wine went on."Just another intellect I am not getting into politics."

"My first cousin Leanne went a little furious at university her first twelvemonth, our first yr at Hogwarts, and the Ministry hushed it all up. She was out partying and the paparazzi got a exposure of her and put it on the cover of some yellow journalism, but that was the only one. I know she partied more, but it was all hushed up."

"But it 's not ilk GA 's partying. She 's got Quidditch science and is using them to make an honest bread and butter,"Rose pointed out.

"I 'm not saying that 's bad. I 'm just saying your uncle wo n't want the populace to know he 's not felicitous with her life history choice so he 's going to make himself look like a devoted father."

"See, everything 's changing."Albus sighed."Sometimes I just wish I had a normal family."

"It 's not all it 's cracked up to be,"John said. Kaden nodded.

"It 's dependable, Albus,"lustrelessness said."Amanda 's completely right. It 's the completely reason why my dad got sacked. The public did n't like that I was a werewolf, which is division of why the Ministry hushed it up. When it got out, nobody wanted him in political relation anymore."

Albus nodded, but did n't say anything. He never really thought about that before, but matte was right. Amanda was, too, but he never really put two and two together before lustrelessness mentioned that. And now the same thing was happening with his family. Hotspur was going to pretend and while that did n't really directly gist him, how long would it direct before the public did n't like the look-alike he and the rest of his full cousin were presenting ?


A/N : From now on, updates for this will materialise on the first of every month and updates for Beyond the darkness will take place on the 15th. That way they 'll be spread out. Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this !

Here 's the Weasley-Potter Family Tree !

Bill-Fleur
Victoire- 20
Gabriella- 18
Ben- 5th year

Charlie-Katherine ( enchantress )
Stanley- 19
Heather- 7th year
Mark- 6th year
Eddie- 8

Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Georgia- 18
Bradley- 6th year
Cedric- 5th class
Samantha & lindy ( twins ) - 9

George- Alicia Spinnet
Fred- 7th year
Angie- 1st year

Ron-Hermione
Rose- 4th year
Hugo- 2nd class

Ginny-Harry
James- 5th class
Albus- 4th class
Lily- 2nd year

*All in Gryffindor*


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was no mention of politics or minister throughout the end of the train slip. Amanda did n't say anything else about her uncle being the flush minister and how it had affected her home, but Albus was still really curious about it. How had she managed to keep that a secret for three long time ? judgement by rose wine 's reaction, she did n't even know about it. mat had n't even managed to keep it a secret that he was a loup-garou for a year. Granted, Albus and the others had figured it out, but still. Maybe Amanda was the dependable underground keeper in their group.

The talk lightened considerably as they made their way to Hogwarts, soon turning to the associate subject of Quidditch and then to fantasizing about the new Defense teacher. Gospel According to John was hoping for someone who let them do whatever they wanted whereas Rose wanted mortal who would actually teach, and not teach like Balladanis had. Albus did n't really handle, so long as the new teacher did n't wish to harm his students, physically or emotionally.

As the train neared Hogsmeade station, Albus and his friend changed into their robes and prepared to pop off the railroad train for the bumpy posture ride up to the school. The journey was now so routine that they did so with footling chattering and transferred to the carriages with none of the flash of the previous two old age. They were fourth yr now and Hogwarts was conversant territory. As fourth years, they were well on their way to being the aged educatee of the schooling.

The Great dorm was filled with laughter and excitement as the scholar found their arse at their menage table. Albus and his ally quickly found tooshie together at the Gryffindor mesa and all five glanced up to the faculty board to happen the new side that would be their Defense teacher. However, instead of the one unfamiliar fount they expected, there were two unfamiliar faces.

"Which one 's the defensive measure teacher ?"Kaden asked.

"Have n't the slightest,"Albus replied.

There were two new wizards sitting at the table. One was late in conversation with prof Kendrick and the other was glancing around at the room, his eyes never resting on the same thing or someone for Sir Thomas More than a few arcsecond. The previous was wearing what looked to be Ministry robes, which made Albus wonder if he was an Auror, but then he noticed one of the Aurors from live on yr standing off to the slope in his usual spot. The second new wizard was dressed in unmistakable blackness robe and had nearly no hair atop his straits, but instead had a magnanimous beard and mustache, as if he was trying to right.

"I think the one talking to Kendrick is from the Ministry,"Albus said.

"That 's not a good preindication,"whoremaster replied."What 's the Ministry doing here on the first day ?"

"It 's not necessarily a bad thing,"pink wine pointed out."Maybe they just want to make surely everything is back to convention after the contest last-place year."

John opened his mouth to reply but was silenced by the doors opening and professor Patil entering with the new start years. They looked pit and flyspeck, far small-scale than the previous year 's first eld. It was unearthly how they seemed to get smaller every year.

As with the previous yr, Albus did n't pay any tending to anyone 's sorting unless their shoemaker's last figure was Potter or Weasley. This year, of line, there was only Angie entering Hogwarts from Albus 's large family line. She ran up to the three-legged-stool with as much enthusiasm as the eternal rest of the family had and jammed the hat onto her head.

It remained there for all of three moment before shouting"Gryffindor !"Angie ran from the pot to the excited shouts of the Gryffindors, her Brother Fred 's whistling ringing over the rest. Everyone at Hogwarts would have bet money on Angie being a Gryffindor, but everyone still liked to cheer.

For once Albus wished that Kendrick would get announcements before the feast was served just so he could find out why there were two new wizard at the staff tabular array, but like common, Kendrick waited until after the feast. Thus, the duration of the feast was spent speculating.

"The Ministry 's sent somebody to observe,"William James said confidently."Look at the preceding three long time. Every ace one at least one of Al and his admirer have gotten kidnapped by insane wizards. Clearly the Ministry does n't think the instructor can protect us enough."

"That 's what the Aurors are for,"Rose pointed out."What 's some Ministry bloke going to do that an Auror ca n't do ? I really do n't think that bloke is another Auror."

"I bet he 's here to enter people for the Ministry,"Fred suggested."You know, spend a year with us seventh old age and try to convert us that we should involve on boring Ministry chore. Bet Uncle Percy 's the reason for it. Probably does n't want anymore of his kin to occupy up Quidditch professionally."

"That 's cockeyed,"a seventh-year girl replied."He 's probably just the new Defense teacher."

"Then who 's that other fella ?"lustrelessness gestured to the bald man sitting succeeding to Slughorn.

"Slughorn 's farseeing lost twin ?"Kaden suggested."Seriously, shave his beard and he 'll search just like Slughorn."

"Maybe Kendrick just wanted to invite someone to the Welcome Feast,"Amanda pointed out."It could be as simple as that."

Albus doubted it. Nothing was ever elementary when it came to life at Hogwarts. Finally, after what seemed corresponding long time, the puddings disappeared and Kendrick stood to hold his common start of terminus speech.

"Welcome back to Hogwarts. I give a lovesome welcome to our new first years and hope you have enjoyed your first Hogwarts feast. I 'll remind everyone that the forest is out of bounds as well as the Whomping willow tree. Those wishing to try out for their planetary house Quidditch squad can give their name calling to their head of household. Now, you may experience noticed that there are two new staff appendage this year even though only one position is vacant. The first is simple to explain and the second is a little more complicated.

"First, I would like to receive Professor Elliot Young to Hogwarts. professor Young is going to be taking over the Defense instructor position."Kendrick gestured to the man with the beard, while scattered applause was received from the pupil and other professors.

"Professor Ancient if you ask me,"John muttered.

"Many of you may be aware and quite a lot of you I 'm sure are not aware that this is an election year for the Ministry of Magic. Tomorrow the nominee running for minister of trick will make their speech communication announcing their candidacy, which will begin a seven month drive period. At the starting time of April, anyone who is of age will vote and the success shall be announced. The fact that this is an election yr is a marvelous educational opportunity and I was n't about to let it go through us by. Therefore I have decided to add another form to the curriculum. It will meet once a week and in it you will con the ins and outs of our political arrangement and its history.

"This is professor Richard Embry."Kendrick gestured to the bloke sitting next to him, who then stood up."He is from the Ministry and has agreed to teach this new category that we have designed. The class will seem on your docket that you will obtain tomorrow. Now, I suggest all of you turn in early as socio-economic class begin brilliant and former in the morning. Prefects, please escort the starting time years to the green rooms."

Kendrick and the Ministry bloke both resumed their ass while Albus and his Quaker rose. The joined the mob of students making their way out of the Great Hall and towards the briny staircase. The Hufflepuffs and Slytherins broke away from the pack to derive to their dormitories and then the Ravenclaws left for their tower. Soon, Albus and his friends were only amongst fellow Gryffindors.

The common way was abuzz with discourse about the new professor when they arrived. Most of the younger scholarly person had gone to bed, but the older students were making no motility to do so. Fred was posting a sign-up tabloid for Quidditch try-outs on the bill board while Heather watched. Albus predicted that the two of them would act more like co-captains since there was no way Heather was going to let Fred work all of the team conclusion this year.

"So now we have another stratum,"John muttered as they sat down at a table near the fire."More homework. More exams."

"It 's only once a week,"Rose pointed out.

"But still, since when has anyone at Hogwarts had to train a class about political science ?"John asked.

"Never,"Albus replied.

"Muggles take family on political sympathies,"Amanda pointed out."My sis took one survive yr and my full cousin have taken them. I really do n't think it 's going to be that difficult."

"Yeah, it 's not like there 's going to be an O.W.L. for it,"Rose said."Can you believe that we 'll be taking O.W.L.s next twelvemonth ?"

John groaned."Do we really have to talk about them already ?"

"Seriously,"mat agreed."They 're a yearn way off."

"wellspring, I think I 'm going to rick in,"Rose said as she stood up."class starting signal tomorrow."

"You sound like Kendrick,"Albus said, but he was feeling slightly tired himself.

pink wine and Amanda left for the girls'dormitory a little while later. Albus and the other son stayed up a while longer, but soon realized they were quite tired. They said goodnight to Kaden when they reached the one-third years'dormitory and then continued on to their own. It had been a long day and Albus was ready to go to catch some Z's, just so he would n't have to conceive about political relation or the election anymore.
******


"fountainhead, we 've got one of the new instructor today,"trick said at breakfast the following morning."We start off the day with Herbology and then have vindication right before lunch."

"When do we have that political sympathies class ?"Matt asked as he scooped a heap of oatmeal onto his plate.

"Tomorrow, right hand before dinner,"Saint John the Apostle replied."Falco columbarius, that would 've been resign time if we did n't take in that bloody class."

"It could be fun, John,"pink wine said.

"I have n't got it until Friday dawning,"Kaden lamented."I think it will be fun. Muggle politics are boring but conjuring trick makes everything better."

"Bad news program is we have it with the Slytherins,"Albus said.

"Of course,"Matt muttered."Would n't await anything different. And we 've probably got potions with them again, right ?"

Albus glanced at his schedule."Yes."They had had potions with the Slytherins every twelvemonth now. Surely that could n't be accidental. Albus would take preferred they have no classes with the Slytherins, especially after what had happened in Defense the previous twelvemonth. The live on matter he and lustrelessness needed was more physical contact with Scorpius Malfoy.

"good news is that we 've got denial with the Hufflepuffs this yr,"Amanda pointed out.

"Bet Kendrick did that on purpose after last year,"John said."He 'd suffer to be an idiot to give us that grade with the Slytherins again.

Everyone nodded in agreement. After the scene that had developed between Albus, Saint John, and Scorpius Kendrick would probably never have the three of them in Defense family together again. Albus was thankful. He 'd pass the hold out few hebdomad of his one-third year avoiding Malfoy and was fully prepared to quash him for the end of his Hogwarts vocation. Unfortunately the Slytherin was on his dueling squad.

The group hurriedly finished their breakfast and then parted ways with Kaden before heading down to the nursery for Herbology. Herbology was one of those predictable classes where they never had to care about anything awful happening when it came to subject thing or teacher. Neville was a just teacher who made socio-economic class interesting. Albus never had to worry about anything odd happening while in the glasshouse, unlike potions and Defense.

Everyone was slightly wary of the new Defense professor and thus the tail in the dorsum of the elbow room were in gamy need. Unfortunately the Hufflepuffs had had Transfiguration beforehand and had a much brusque pass, so they claimed all of the far rump. Albus, Matt, and John had the tough luck of having to sit at one of the battlefront tables and all three boy were on boundary.

The professor ambled into the way just as class was scheduled to start out. He had a very turgid slew of parchment, which he set on the desk before beginning to holler roll.

"I am prof Whitney Moore Young Jr.,"he began after he finished with ringlet."And welcome to fourth year defence force Against the night Arts. This class we will focus on Dark curses, hexes, and general spells, all of which are detailed out in your text. You can take on your al-Qur'an out now if you have n't already done so."

Albus rummaged in his bag and set his record on the table. professor Edward Young picked up the push-down stack of lambskin and began passing it out to the students. Albus feared that it was a quiz, as he glanced down at its fill-in-the-blank questions and short answer questions.

"Please read the 1st chapter of your books and complete the worksheet by the end of the course of study,"Young said as he walked back to his desk. He said nothing more and began to read what appeared to be a novel while stroking his beard.

Albus glanced at Gospel According to John and Matt, unsure of whether Young would yell at him if he spoke in rustle to his friends. Actually, Young might not even hear him. He did look to be quite old. But it was just so odd that Danton True Young assigned them reading and a worksheet on the inaugural day of division. Would n't a lecture make Thomas More good sense ? Albus could n't remember a meter when a professor had n't lectured on the for the first time day of class.

Everyone else seemed thoroughly confused as well. For the future five minute of arc everyone sent each other throw looks and glances before finally cracking open their textbooks, having realized that Thomas Young was n't going to do anything besides register his novel.

Albus began to translate the first chapter, which was dreadfully boring. It was about the most mundane of Dark curse, if a Dark hex could be considered mundane. The chapter did n't even mention unforgivable oath, which while horrible, were far more interesting than the basic principles of what made a curse Dark.

Albus finished his worksheet a few moment before offspring put down his novel."Leave your worksheets here on my desk. There is n't any homework."

"That was the strangest family ever,"Albus said once they had left the room."Who gives a worksheet on the foremost day of class ?"

"person who just wants to read their Scripture all day,"St. John replied."Works for me, since he did n't give any homework."

"Still, it was horribly tedious,"Albus replied.

"Honestly, I 'm happy it 's oil production after dealing with Balladanis last year,"Matt said.

"Somehow I do n't think this fella is going to be bringing any Anamateks to class,"Albus said.

"An Anamatek would probably finish him off,"bathroom replied."I do n't reckon he could handle one."

"Not many people could,"Albus pointed out.

When they arrived in the Great student residence, they were surprised to see Sakartvelo hurrying Bradley and Cedric out of the room.

"What 's faulty ?"Albus asked, extremely confused as to why GA was at Hogwarts.

"Dad wants us there when he makes his big announcement."She rolled her eyes."We 're supposed to be there supporting him or something."

"What time is it happening ?"Albus asked.

"One,"Georgia replied."Which means we 're already going to be later than Dad wants. It 'll be in the eve Prophet."

"There is no way Georgia 's going to be able to sham everything is fine between her and Uncle Sir Henry Percy for the wholly election,"Rose said once Empire State of the South and her brothers had left."She looked annoyed already and he has n't even announced he 's running yet."

"She probably has to miss practice for it,"Albus replied."I just want to know who he 's running against."

"compliments we could go watch,"Rose said."I bet our parents are there."

"Of course they are,"Albus agreed."matt 's dad is probably there, too."

"He is,"lusterlessness said."Has n't got a clue as to who 's running, though."

"Guess we 'll notice out tonight,"Albus said.
******


Albus did n't see Bradley or Cedric until dinner. He had been hoping to bewitch one of them in between course of instruction, but either their schedule did n't let them to cross route or the announcement had gone until dinner party. The noise in the Great Hall was n't any brassy than it usually was when Albus arrived, but then again he was n't quite sure how much the rest of the students cared about the election. However at the Gryffindor mesa, all of Albus 's cousins were clustered at one end of the table, their mind leaned in to one another.

"Looks like a family meeting or something,"Albus said.

"We 'll see you in the common room after dinner, then,"Amanda said as she pulled bathroom and Kaden towards the former end of the board, matte following.

Albus followed rose wine to the far end of the table, where everyone else had already gathered. Albus squeezed his way in between Hugo and King James I while Rose found a seat next to Lily.

"Finally, you 're here,"James said."Bradley and Cedric wo n't say a word until everyone 's here."

"Otherwise we 'd just feature to tell the storey over and over again,"Thomas Bradley muttered.

"fountainhead, go on,"Fred encouraged.

"It was basically a huge illusion party with a clustering of boring address,"Bradley began."A bunch of Ministry people and their married woman or married man and Dad was the heart and soul of attention, of course. Everyone knew he was running even though he had n't made his prescribed annunciation yet. It did n't get occupy until Dad and the witch he 's running against made their announcement-"

"Dad 's was pretty dull,"Cedric cut in."Talked about how he 's seen the Ministry through so many change and how we need solid leaders to keep the charming community together and loyal. Mentioned Uncle Harry and Voldemort, of form. Then everyone clapped politely and the opposition stood up."

"The witch who 's actually execute looks like she was a hawk in a former life. Her nose is as pointy as a nose can get and she 's got this sleek black tomentum that was done up in a bun. She stood up there with a gang of people who she introduced as her campaign team,"Tom Bradley said."But it was her lecture that got the gang riled up. She kept putting holes in everything Dad said. Dad mentioned about how the wizarding worldly concern was a impregnable united front but she talked about how break are forming and the Ministry is slipping and change is needed again. She made all these subtle mentions of how the Aurors are n't as on top of things and how if we do n't do something the magical domain will strike apart."

"That 's nonsensical !"Fred said."The magic globe is fine."

"I thought they were just making their announcements that they were running,"Rose said."actor's line do n't pop out yet."

"Neither of them are going to consume an chance to get votes,"Heather pointed out."So do you two have to make anymore appearances ?"

"Yeah,"Omar Nelson Bradley answered."Dad wants us all there for his first delivery this weekend and he said there are going to be some debates here, so we have to sit up front with Mum at those."

"And the Prophet wants to do a huge article on our household,"Cedric added."They 're doing one on the witch, too."

"What 's her figure ?"Rose asked."And what does she do in the Ministry ?"

"Patricia Laurentis,"Cedric replied."She 's some sort of adviser to the current government minister. Her statute title 's just as confusing and long as Dad's."

"Wyrd that both the campaigner were working under the current Minister,"rose wine said.

"well the parties chose them."Cedric shrugged."I should get going, though. Have to go see Slughorn about what I missed earlier."

"Me too,"Bradley said as he stood up."Patil probably wo n't be delight that I missed the first lesson."

Cedric and Bradley left, leaving the eternal rest of the cousin-german to babble out about what they had just been told. Albus mostly listened while pushing his food around his denture. What he had learned about Patricia Laurentis unnerved him a lilliputian and it was mostly because part of him thought she was right. Things were n't as gross as his Uncle Percy thought. Willinson was still on the unloose and not to name the issue with Lubar was still unresolved.

But Albus 's dad and the other Aurors were doing all they could, were n't they ? What could Patricia Laurentis do if she got elected ? There would still be the same Aurors working at the Ministry.

"Maybe Uncle Percy is the powerful person to be Minister,"Scots heather said quietly."The Ministry has been working the like way since the final struggle, has n't it ? And there have n't been anymore Voldemorts trying to gain power."

"But affair ca n't always rest the same,"rosiness pointed out.

"Do you really think the Ministry needs to change that much ?"Calluna vulgaris asked.

"I do n't sleep with,"pink wine said quietly."I just do n't think hoi polloi are as merge as Uncle Hotspur thinks."

"I 'm going to the common elbow room,"Albus said as he pushed his collection plate away. He was n't hungry anymore.

stride behind him told him that rose was following, just like he hoped she would."What were you getting at ? People not being united ?"he asked once they were in an vacuous corridor.

"Not everyone agrees on everything, Albus,"rose wine said."Far from it. I think Uncle Percy 's slightly delusional about that. And remember what you told me about that odd bloke who gave your dad a monition at the Quidditch World Cup ?"

"That bloke ?"Albus laughed."He was insane !"

"I 'm not denying that, but he did have a point. In an election twelvemonth everything subject. Uncle Walker Percy 's aligned his impression with the current Minister 's, which means if he 's elected he 's going to extend doing things the same way. The Ministry has n't caught Willinson for beneficial in the three year they 've been searching and he 's slipped out of their clench numerous times. It 's not going to be unmanageable for that Laurentis lady to win over citizenry we need to shift tactics, even if her maneuver are n't great either."

Albus said nothing for a few moments."How do you get it on all of this ?"

"I 've talked to Amanda Sir Thomas More than you have,"Rose replied."She knows how all of this works, and it 's really not that different in the Muggle world."

"So you think Laurentis is going to win ?"Albus asked.

rosiness laughed."I never said that and it 's far too soon to tell. They have n't even debated yet. All I 'm saying is, Uncle Percy needs to open his eyes a bit."

Albus did n't reply. He knew that his Uncle Hotspur 's political views were slightly unlike than the rest of his family 's, but they were still quite exchangeable. If what Rose was saying was true, that meant that his whole house needed to afford their eyes and Albus was n't sure how he felt about that.


A/N : Sorry about the late update. There were some site military issue. See the forums for more point about that. Thanks to everyone who has been reading and reviewing !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"You know, this politics class is taking away from our free periods,"John said the stick with morning at breakfast. He shook his headspring as he loaded his plate high with scrambled bollock and bacon.

Albus nodded and waited for Rose 's response about how they needed to take advantage of any learning opportunities, even if they meant less liberate metre, but it did n't issue forth. Albus turned to depend at her, thinking she might be ill. She was n't. Instead she was piling her own plate high with ball and toast. Albus raised his supercilium at her.

"What ?"she demanded."young lady get thirsty, too."

"Not that,"Albus replied."King John just complained about having another family and you did n't groan and tell apart him off."

"I variety of agree with him."Rose shrugged.

"Are you ill ?"Albus asked as he felt her forehead.

Rose pushed his hand away."stay it, Al. I 'm not saying I wo n't enjoy the class. I 'm just saying that we 're fourth years and O.W.L.s are closer than ever and we need all the time we can get to study. Not that John the Evangelist would use the metre to contemplate, mind you."

"There 's the Rose we all know."Gospel According to John grinned as he stuffed his face with bacon.

"I think it 'll be a nice variety,"Matt put in."Something different. notification they gave us History of Magic on two consecutive mornings. wonder who the idiot was who did that."

"Same one who always gives us classes with the Slytherins, I 'll bet,"whoremonger said."bivalent Potions this morning and I 'd bet my redress arm and both my stage we 'll be with the Slytherins."

"Why not both your arms and pegleg ?"Amanda asked.

"On the off-chance that I 'm wrong, I 'll call for some sort of limb to get around with,"John answered.

"I only had one form with the Slytherins last year,"Kaden said."You lot must have terrible hazard. I 'd better be off. Defense this morning."

"Good destiny. That professor is unearthly,"privy said.

"Ca n't be big than last year,"Kaden replied as he got up and left.

Albus, flatness, Rose, and Amanda waited for John to end his pile of eggs before setting off for the keep. When they arrived the door was already exposed and Albus saw that they were indeed wit the Slytherins again. Scorpius Malfoy was sitting at one of the front board, looking rather smug. Albus averted his eyes and continued to the backrest of the schoolroom, where he sat down in between Matt and John.

"marvel what he 's so felicitous about,"Albus muttered as the rest of the students entered the room.

"I do n't acknowledge. But I do n't wish it,"john said.

Slughorn chose that moment to waddle into the room so Albus and John could not uphold their conversation."Welcome, welcome ! Ahh, my two favourite houses together again ! What luck. Well, well, welcome to fourth year Potions. This is the year that things get difficult since you 'll be sitting your O.W.L.s succeeding year ..."

"Why is it they 're talking about O.W.L.s this year ?"Albus whispered."They 're still over a year off."

"... Since today is a doubled course of study I thought we 'd set about brewing the first off potion in your schoolbook and see where your acquirement lie after a summer of lounging about. Unless some of you happened to interpret your text al-Qur'an over the summer !"

Albus glanced at pink wine, who was sitting following to Amanda at one of the front board. She seemed to sit up higher in her seat.

"Let 's get started, then. You can work in pairs of your choosing. The duet that produces the safe potion will win a bar of Honeyduke 's chocolate."

John set off to work with Janie Creevey who lacked a pardner while Albus and lusterlessness set up a cauldron at their tabular array.

"Remember your baseball mitt,"Slughorn announced."If you touch the complete product your hand will immediately freeze."

"Does it seem odd to you that we have to trump up a Freeze solvent with fire ?"matte asked as he stuck his wand under the cauldron to light the flame.

"Very,"Albus agreed."So now that we 've had Slughorn for three years, have you noticed that he always starts the yr with a contest ?"

"Yeah. I bet he uses the Saami curriculum every class,"Matt added."Ca n't think that often alteration in terms of potion brewing."

"I bet our parents brewed the same potions,"Albus said.

"I wonder if it 's possible for this potion to explode,"Matt mused as he tossed a few pieces of shredded beetroot into the cauldron."

"wellspring, I suppose we 'll retrieve out,"came a drawling voice from behind them. Albus turned around and saw Malfoy, carrying a few bottleful he must accept gotten from the supply closet."I 'm sure you two will manage it, if it 's possible."

"Shut it, Malfoy,"Albus replied.

Malfoy glared at him and then stalked off towards his own table. Albus was slightly surprised that he had left so quickly. It was strange.

"Weird of him to leave so soon,"lusterlessness said, as if reading Albus 's mind.

"Yeah, if you ask me, he 's afraid of you now."

Matt let out a jape."Yeah, right. If anything he 's finally realized you 're a better duellist than he is and he 's got to learn out. oral presentation of which, you think you 're going to be captain of your dueling team this year ?"

"It 's either going to be me or Malfoy,"Albus said.

With everything else that was going on that class, the final stage affair Albus needed was to be master of his dueling team, but he did not want Malfoy as maitre d'hotel either. He 'd take the extra work if just to keep Malfoy from being in charge. Malfoy needed power like a blast-ended skrewt needed a flame thrower.

Albus and Matt did not blow up their potion by the end of the class. In fact, their potion had the Same consistence that it was supposed to and while it was slightly indelicate, it did bring off to freeze the quill Slughorn stuck in it. Rose and Amanda won the chocolate, which was no surprisal to anyone.

rosebush and Amanda shared their chocolate with the boy as they walked up to the Great mansion house for tiffin. Albus and lusterlessness told the girls and lavatory about Malfoy 's freaky demeanour and rose wine told them that they should just be glad he 's backing down, rather than analyze his motives.

The Great Hall was buzzing with activity when they entered it a few minutes later. Albus sat down at the Gryffindor board and no Oklahoman had he grabbed a roll did ling toss a copy of the seer onto his home base.

"What 's this ?"Albus asked as he lifted up the paper.

"This morning 's Prophet. The hooter were late delivering it. Something about a storm in capital of the United Kingdom,"broom explained.

Albus set down his roll and opened the paper. There on the strawman Page was a word picture of his Uncle Percy, smiling wide, in elaborate robes, shaking helping hand with a very tall woman, who was also smiling across-the-board and wearing dilate robes. Above the picture was the title of respect,"prospect for Minister of illusion Announced."

By this peak pink wine and matt had crowded on either incline of Albus, while Amanda and John hovered behind him, all trying to read the article. Albus 's eyes traveled down the Sir Frederick Handley Page so he could do the same.

In presence of the entire Ministry of conjuration,
rector hopefuls Percy Ignatius Weasley and
Patricia Leigh Laurentis announced their
political campaign on Sep 3rd, 2029. Both
prospect work under government minister Hartwell, yet
are running against each other for polar
company.

Weasley, Senior Undersecretary for the
Drafting and Editing of jurisprudence, has been
chosen to run for the Merlinus Party,
which is the political party that current parson
Hartwell represents. Laurentis, Senior
Advisor to Law Enforcement and Azkaban
Official has been chosen to run for the
Paracelsus Party.

A enceinte crowd turned out for the proclamation,
which is only the first of many appearances
by both nominee. The first gear debate is
scheduled for September 8th, at the
Ministry of thaumaturgy.

"So that 's who your uncle 's run against,"flatness said.

"supposition so,"Albus replied.

"She looks a little like this maths teacher I had before I came to Hogwarts,"Amanda said."She was a scary ma'am. I remember once I forgot to do my homework so I spent the entire morning in the loo before somebody came looking for me."

"You can tell they both hate each early,"Matt said as he gestured to the picture."Sure they 're shaking hands and acting nice but clearly they both want to hex each other."

"It 's just eldritch that she works for Hartwell if she 's the diametric party he is,"rosiness mused."Why would Hartwell have hired her ?"

"Maybe she switched parties ?"Amanda suggested."It happens in the Muggle world."

"Maybe,"rosiness said."It just seems funny. Her switching parties and hinting at all these basal changes. It just seems like something big is going to happen."

Albus could n't facilitate but have the same flavour. But all he could do was hope that his uncle won the election and Laurentis would not have the chance to change everything.

"Hey, Al, done with that paper ?"James I called from down the table.

Albus nodded and passed the prophet down, then settling in to eat lunch. There was no point worrying about the election now. It was calendar month away. Plus, the politics class was later that day and Albus was incredibly funny about it.

Transfiguration seemed to dredge by since it was the Saami as it was every class. professor Patil explained about that year 's programme and how they needed to take off thinking about O.W.L.s and the increased workload. It was all rather monotonous and all Albus wanted to do was get to political science since it was something new.

Finally Transfiguration of Jesus was over and Albus and his acquaintance hurried to the fifth floor to the classroom where politics was held. They slowed down when they reached the elbow room as none of them wanted to be the first-class honours degree to enter.

"We better not accept this with the Slytherins,"john muttered as they neared the doorway.

Albus peeked in the door."Nope, Hufflepuffs."

lavatory let out an audible sigh of sculptural relief and Albus pushed the doorway open as they entered. Only a few Hufflepuffs were there, seated towards the backrest, and the professor was nowhere in sight. Rose immediately claimed a desk in the social movement and Amanda chose one side by side to her, while Albus and the other son headed to the group of Hufflepuffs in the dorsum.

"Do you retrieve there will be homework in this socio-economic class ?"John asked as they sat down.

Albus raised his eyebrows."Is that a serious question ?"

St. John shrugged."wellspring it 's not like there will be an O.W.L. We probably wo n't even birth this class next twelvemonth. So why would there be homework ?"

"Because it 's a class and this is Hogwarts,"Albus replied."I guarantee there will be homework."

The quietus of the class filed in, filling in the seats that remained in the middle of the classroom. As the bell rang, professor Embry entered, walking with an air that this class would be all work and no play.

"trade good afternoon,"Professor Embry began as he shuffled a few papers on his desk."Welcome to basic Wizarding politics. I am Professor Embry and you will call me such."

Embry stepped out from behind his desk and began to pace the duration of the schoolroom."I understand that most of you know absolutely nothing about politics and assume that the pastor of illusion is born the Minister and laws just magically come into world. A quality few of you,"his heart rested on Albus, and then on Matt, and on two Hufflepuff girls,"have parents in the Ministry and may give slightly more knowledge than the rest, but that would be rather generous of me to assume.

"Hogwarts has not put very much stake in political breeding before now, something that I feel is lacking in today 's educational activity and bid to rectify this year. The curriculum will include chronicle of how our governance came to be the way it is today as well as how the governance is currently run."

The class let out a collective grown at the word story. Albus glanced at Rose, who was on the edge of her seat.

"But sir,"a particularly brave Hufflepufff boy announced,"we 've already learned the story. We take History of Magic."

Embry let out a little laugh."With professor Binns ? If I may be frank, that man died before most of the chronicle happened. Along with that, he 'll put a rock music to sleep."Embry chuckled. No one in the year dared to express mirth."I 'm going to afford you a right history of our forward-looking regime, starting with a brief overview of what the government was like before the reign of Voldemort and a more comprehensive overview of what it is like today.

"I will also consecrate a socio-economic class full stop each to the way the government is run in Jacques Anatole Francois Thibault, the United land, and Commonwealth of Australia. Now, since you were not cognisant that this class would take on place, you have not acquired books. Therefore I have purchased them for you. You are to process them as library rule book and retort them to me in standardized condition at the end of the year. Lest your parents be billed."

Embry flicked his wand and raft of playscript flew out of a nearby cupboard. They landed softly in front line of the student. Albus glanced down and read the title. government and Government in modern Wizarding U.K. by Beatrice Holden. It looked about as dull as the cupboard it had come out of.

"Very safe. Now, get out parchment and quills. I 'm not going to let the balance of this class flow go to waste product,"Embry said as he tapped his sceptre on the board. Notes immediately appeared on it.

Embry lectured for the remainder of the class about how the maiden government was formed in Britain. It was incredibly dry. The exclusively intellect Albus stayed awake was because he had to take bill. Literally had to. Embry caught a trick not taking notes and threatened him with detention this Saturday if he did n't start.

"That 's all for today,"Embry said after the bell rang."Next stratum we 'll fast forward in clip and learn about the governance pre-Voldemort. Read the first base chapter for homework and come up with three heedful questions to pose to the rest of the class. Dismissed."

"How does Hogwarts attract the most bizarre teacher ?"Albus asked once they were out of earshot of the classroom.

"Kendrick must put it on the lean of job requirements,"John replied."Must be out of your freaking mind to exact this position."

"I think he 's professional,"Rose piped in."It seems like we 'll really ascertain stuff."

"Why botheration ?"John asked."It 's not like we 're old enough to have a say in the government anyway."

"But we will one day,"Amanda pointed out."And to be true, I 'd be a bit afraid if everyone our age felt like you do, John. Muggles get government classes in school. It makes sense that we should, too."

"She 's got a point, Ilex paraguariensis,"matt said."Who has the power in your country matters. If you elect the wrong mass, matter can go horribly wrong. Not everyone gets to elect their drawing card, either. We do n't even get to do that fully. The military position that Albus 's dad has and my dad ingest ? In the United States, those are elected situation. Not here."

"And before Voldemort, we did n't even elect our government minister,"rosebush said.

"How do you lot even know this stuff ?"St. John the Apostle asked as they drew confining to the Gryffindor rough-cut room.

"Parents."Amanda shrugged."It 's amazing what you pick up when your parents think you 're too youthful to care to eavesdrop."

"Wait."toilet stopped in the middle of the corridor and looked at his admirer."Wait. Now that we know about your uncle, you lot all have family involved with the Ministry, wether it 's the magic ministry or the Muggle ministry."

Albus grinned sheepishly."speculation so."

John groaned."This is insane. Why could n't I have picked normal friends ?"

"pattern is highly overrated,"mat said as they reached the Fat madam.

******


The rest of the week went by fairly quickly, in Albus 's opinion. Everyone, bookman and teacher, fell back into their usual Hogwarts routines and by the prison term Friday arrived Albus had a smokestack of homework as high as his bed and was to a greater extent than prepare for a few days off. But when he saw the placard control board in the common way when he got back from good luck charm on Friday afternoon, he knew that would not be entirely possible.

Fred had scheduled Quidditch practice on Saturday at eight in the morning.

"Eight !"Albus exclaimed."In the morning ? Is he thoroughly insane ? It 's the first week back ! Even Sakartvelo was n't crazy enough to do that."

"punk luck, mate,"whoremonger said as he tossed his bag onto a nearby couch."eighter in the aurora. Let 's see, I 'll be snuggled up in bed. What about you, flatness ? What will you be doing at eight in the good morning ? Flying through the rain ? Trudging through the mud to the pitch ?"

"Course not."Matt grinned."I 'll be cozy in bed, having an amazing ambition where I 'm playing for the Cannons. In everlasting conditions of course."

"The Cannons are the only if squad you 'd ever ingest Hope of playing for,"John replied.

Albus threw himself down on the couch. Fred was insane. That was all there was to it. Well, he could apply for a professor berth once he graduated. He 'd meet the insanity requirement.

"Speak of the ogre,"Gospel According to John said as Fred entered the vernacular room.

"You !"Albus shouted as he got up."Why in the gens of everything Merlin owns did you schedule practice session at eight in the daybreak on a Saturday ? Not everyone 's a one-seventh twelvemonth taking four classes. We ca n't all sleep in every bloody day."

Fred shrugged."Had to. sales talk is booked solid all weekend except for Saturday morning and evening. All the former home are having try-outs. We ca n't even hold our steward try-outs until next weekend because of it."

"Why not the evening then ?"

"Tom Bradley 's got to make an appearance at Uncle Hotspur 's speech."Fred rolled his eyes.

"Then why have drill at all ? We do n't need to train anyone new until we get a new keeper,"Albus pointed out.

"It 's been a entirely summer. We 're rusty. We 've got to start training early. I want that Quidditch trophy."

"We 've been playing Quidditch all summertime,"Albus said flatly.

"expression, Al, I 'm not changing it. Just deal with it,"Fred said as he continued up to his dorm.

Albus spent the eternal sleep of the eventide fuming about practice and cursing Fred under his intimation, until Rose suggested they all go to the room after dinner. Albus reluctantly agreed, knowing that if they went to the room he 'd be up half the nighttime and would only get a few hours'sopor.

In the end he was sword lily Rose suggested it. They spent the evening playing Gobstones and Exploding Snap and listening to John and Kaden think up new way to prank the Slytherins, and more specifically, Scorpius Malfoy. Eventually, Albus decided to bid it a night and headed back to his student residence, leaving his friends to proceed discussing whether it would be beneficial to call on Malfoy 's hair red or purpleness.

Only a few short 60 minutes later Albus found himself sneaking quietly out of his dormitory at an hour of day that was only stand for to be seen on weekdays. He grabbed his Calluna vulgaris and went to meet his teammates in the park room.

No one looked felicitous. Saint James the Apostle was nodding off on the couch while Ryan attempted to tie his place without opening his middle. Heather 's hair was sticking up at odd angles while she tried to tame it into a ponytail. Tom Bradley was sulking in an armchair. Even Fred looked a little worse for wear. But they trudged through the rook, only seeing Peeves loosening a few door flexible joint and Filch 's cat malingering behind a courtship of armor.

The weather condition was at to the lowest degree nice and the four hr they spent on the pitch went by relatively fast. Albus and his teammates landed on the footing as the Slytherin Quidditch squad made their way onto the delivery. Albus glared at them as they passed.

Without going up to his hall to transfer, Albus headed into the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall hoping there would be something good for dejeuner. Having skipped breakfast, he was starving. He spotted his booster halfway down the Gryffindor board and after stowing his broom underneath the bench, he sat down and grabbed the nearest dish.

"You could at least shower first, Al,"Rose said."You stink."

"Too starved,"Albus replied.

"Albus !"Lily called from down the table. She got up and headed over to him."Mum and Dad sent this earlier."She handed him a slice of parchment."They want us to go to the public debate tonight since it 's the number 1 one and all. We 're expected to Floo from Kendrick 's study to the Ministry at five."

Albus groaned as he read the missive."That gives me about four hours to relax and possibly do homework."

"Are you going to make to go to every debate ?"rosiness asked.

"Leslie Townes Hope not,"Albus replied in between bit."You do n't have to go ?"

"Have n't gotten anything about it. Dad probably does n't even want to go himself so he wo n't make us. And Mum probably expects that it would just take away from my studies."

"This says I have to don dress robe,"Albus muttered.

"At least you can tell us if anything just happens,"Matt said.

"And what about you ? Your dad 's high in the Ministry. Why are n't you going ?"Albus asked, desperate to find person else who could keep him company.

"He already told me over the summertime that I 'll only own to go to ones at Hogwarts. And then whatever party the candidates will throw for the officials. Does n't think an election should have much result on my life,"matte explained.

"Lucky,"Albus replied.

Albus made the most of the quietus of the day. He and his friend took homework down to the lake, but it sat ignored under a beech tree while they sat by the edge of the lake and dangled their foundation in. Kaden swore the heavyweight squid tried to eat his substructure, but cipher believed him. blush wine and Amanda took a walk by themselves along the edge of the forest, insisting that none of the boys follow.

Kaden pulled a Fanged Frisbee out of his bag once the girls left and the son began tossing it around. This was majuscule fun until the Frisbee decided it had had enough of being thrown and took out a section of Kaden 's hair, leaving his head bleeding rather profusely and Albus, John, and lusterlessness having to rush him to the hospital annex. By the meter Kaden 's head word had been bandaged up and all four had received a talking to on the dangers of Fanged Frisbees ( Madam Pomfrey somehow figured out that that was the cause ) it was fourth dimension for Albus to maneuver back to Gryffindor Tower to get ready for the public debate.


A/N : Sorry for the want of a May update. School was insane. But I only have a year left ! I 'm now home for the summertime and am having issues getting my internet to cooperate with HPFF. things take a long prison term to debase and I can not reply to retrospect. I will still read every review, but responses will take a while since I have to be at the program library to reply to them.

Since I live on updated I 've had some takings with people plagiarizing my stories. I really hate that I have to assure you guys this, but it is against the regulation to take anyone 's floor from here and put them on other situation. It 's also against the principle to take plots, fictitious character, etc without permit. I do not give my permission for anyone to contain my plots or character. I 'm really happy that you guys like my stories, but please do n't take them.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


If there was one matter Albus hated it was getting dressed up for Ministry events. He had always been slightly uncomfortable with his dad 's fame and Ministry position because he hated the care. James had always been the type who would bask in the attending, enjoying when all the Ministry functionary proclaimed how big he was getting and how he was sure to be the star of Gryffindor 's Quidditch team. Lily was rather indifferent towards it. She never really expressed emotion about the attention one way or another. She enjoyed getting dressed up but once they were at whatever political party, she would go off and do her own affair. Albus just did not like it. He did not like getting his buttock pinched by old ladies and did not like random people telling him how tall he was getting. As he got older, he did not like it any more.

But it was a fact of aliveness and so Albus found himself once again forcing himself into a set of emerald green dress robes. They were wrinkled, but he did n't roll in the hay any sort of ironing spell so he let them be. It 's not like anyone would be focused on him anyway. This was his Uncle Percy 's night and it seemed like this integral year was going to be his Uncle Hotspur 's year.

Albus tamed his hair with a bit of water and then met James, Lily, Omar Bradley, and Cedric in the mutual room. James looked debonnaire and perfectly prosperous in his blue attire robe, whereas Thomas Bradley and Cedric looked like they were being strength fed rotten Fish in their matching grey robes. Lily was wearing a purple dress and as usual, did n't seem to deliver an belief about going to the debate.

"So you three got roped into this, too ?"Bradley asked as they made their way to Kendrick 's study.

"Yeah, Mum sent us a letter this morning,"Lily explained."I guess Dad thinks we should be at the first one."

"At least you do n't have to go to all of them,"Bradley muttered.

The repose of the trip to Kendrick 's study was silent. When they arrived they saw that Kendrick was in dress robes as well and was apparently escorting them to the Ministry and would stay to look out the debate. He handed them each a bit of Floo pulverisation and let them go first.

Albus stepped into the Floo after Henry James and soon found himself in the Ministry of legerdemain 's entrance hall. The place was far quieter than it was the last time he had been there, the following year, when he went with lustrelessness to say his dad about Lubar being at Hogwarts.

Kendrick led them to the ski lift and down to the court rooms."The only place big enough to hold everyone witnessing the public debate. Even still, it 's an invitation only event. It 's being broadcasted over the wireless, however. Kendrick stopped in front of court elbow room ten and opened the door. The room was about half full. Albus spotted his mother 's bright red hairsbreadth in the number one row of seats. He followed Kendrick down the stairs.

Albus 's Aunt Corrine was sitting with his parents, along with a rather sullen looking Georgia and the twins, who were both reading books. Kendrick began to speak quietly to Harry as Albus and the others filed into the row. James, Bradley, and Cedric immediately began to speak of Quidditch and Albus listened in. They were speculating on who would point up for keeper try-outs the stick with weekend. Sakartvelo immediately perked up and began giving the boy advice on who they should keep an eye out for.

It soon became obvious that the left face of the nominal head row of the seating was reserved for Percy 's crime syndicate. They were joined by all of Albus 's auntie and uncles, as well as Victoire, Teddy, and Stanley. In fact the only one of his older cousins that was not there was Gabriella. Albus wanted to ask Victoire where she was but she was too far away.

Albus assumed that the for the first time row on the right wing slope was reserved for Laurentis 's crime syndicate, although Albus did n't realize a single one of the people in that row. He turned around and focused on the hoi polloi filing in. He recognized a few of them including Matt 's parents and a few early Ministry officials he 'd met before. Matt 's parents sat down behind Albus 's parents, next to prof Kendrick. Albus briefly wished that flatness had been forced to go, but quickly erased that opinion because what kind of friend would wish their best friend had to attend a political debate ?

The yakety-yak in the room immediately subsided when curate Hartwell entered followed by a few of his closest adviser. Behind them were Percy and Laurentis, both wearing Ministry robes. Hartwell and his advisor sat along a table at the front of the elbow room while Harry Hotspur and Laurentis stood behind stump, also at the front of the room. The Minister spoke with his advisers briefly while Percy and Laurentis smiled and waved at the crowd. Then one of the advisers rose from his seat.

He was a portly man, whose robes stretched very tightly across his midriff. He was completely denuded and had no byssus, but a very widely mustache. Aiming his baton at his own pharynx, he muttered a spell and then set his sceptre down.

"Welcome,"his voice boomed over the interview,"to the first argumentation of the 2020 election for curate of Magic. Our two candidates, Sir Henry Percy Ignatius Weasley and Patricia Leigh Laurentis, connect us tonight for an introductory argumentation on a salmagundi of issues. My name is Wendell York and I am the head of the section of Magical Transportation and will serve well as moderator for tonight 's debate. I will pose the topic and each campaigner will get five minutes to reply, then two minute for a rebuttal.

"The first topic is how our mankind is concealed from Muggles. Do you believe the stream Ministry is doing an adequate job ? What changes would you evoke ? Mr. Weasley, you may go first."

Albus yawned. Why could n't it be an exciting topic like catching wickedness sorcerer ? Or at to the lowest degree something relevant to his life, like the lack of commodity defense force professor at Hogwarts. Now that would be a debate he 'd be occupy in. Albus turned towards Hotspur and realized he had n't even been paying care to lots of his uncle 's response.

"... current laws do a satisfactory job of concealing our macrocosm from Muggles. thaumaturgy sightings by Muggles are low in number and when they do occur Obliviators do an fantabulous job of altering the memories of our Muggle neighbor ..."Sir Henry Percy droned on.

Albus turned to James IV who rolled his center. Could they have come up with a more deadening topic ? Albus seriously doubted it. Except perhaps cauldron bottom thickness, which was a report Percy had done when he first started at the Ministry, according to Harry. Albus glanced at his dad. He was paying aid, but in that certain way of paying attention that meant he was really bore but was trying to wangle it. Even Corrine looked slightly bored.

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Wendell York said."Ms. Laurentis, your turn."

"I disagree with Mr. Weasley,"Laurentis began."One sighting of our sort by Muggles is too many. Each time a Muggle catches sight of an act of magic puts our total world at peril, and not only U.K. 's wizarding world. We have a duty to the world that we sustain our legerdemain under wrap. According to close year 's statistics we were in the top five countries in price of Book of Numbers of sightings. That 's not good ..."

Laurentis went on and on about various laws that could be enacted to ascertain that Muggles did not see number of magic until Wendell York cut her off. He then let Percy let his two second rebutter, during which he went on about how it was an impossible end to try, to reach no illusion sightings by Muggles. Laurentis 's rebuttal was basically just a re-statement of her late argument.

Albus tuned much of the debate out, focusing instead on what he wanted to do during the current school year. He was a quaternary yr, which meant he was no thirster one of the younger kids. He 'd been on the Quidditch team for two years and now he was hoping he 'd be able to have some say in how practice went and how peer were played. Then there was the Dueling Club. Each of the eight teams had a police chief and the maitre d' were fourth long time. Professors, mostly Neville, picked the senior pilot. Albus knew it would be down to either him or Scorpio and as much as he did not really want the responsibleness of being captain, he did not want Scorpius to let business leader over him. He would use that to his vantage.

The debate wore on and Albus continued to not pay care until he heard the tidings 'education'and 'Hogwarts'. That got his care. It was Laurentis 's bit to go first.

"I think educational reform is the best way to go. Hogwarts has been ran the same way for generation and while no one can deny that Headmaster Kendrick runs a fantastic school, we also can not cut that changes could be made to gain the scholar. The humans is a constantly changing place and education needs to keep up in Order for our students to be better prepared.

"The course choices for lesson. It is my understanding that a new class has been added this year about government, which I think is greatly beneficial to students. But other than that the same classes are offered now as have been offered for tenner. New stratum need to be phased in while old unity that either no longer stake student need to be phased out. Obviously I am not talking about centre classes such as Potions and Charms, but elective course.

"Teachers also need to be kept up to date with recent findings in their fields. They should not be teaching the same info I or my resister learned at Hogwarts. They should be teaching the newest valid information available-"

"Thank you, Ms. Laurentis, but your fourth dimension is up. Mr. Weasley."

"My opponent brings up an interesting point, but even she admits that Headmaster Kendrick is running an splendid school. I believe that some politics regularisation is requisite, good example being utmost year 's incident with professor Balladanis, but we as government functionary do not birth the training nor experience needed to properly run a school. I, as well as my opponent, would be kidding ourselves if we believed we could do a better job running Hogwarts than Professor Kendrick.

"Just as prof most likely believe it dependable to leave law devising and the running play of the country to those such as my opponent and I, I believe it topper to result the running of Hogwarts to prof Kendrick and the former professor. In ratiocination, I believe that Hogwarts is fine as is and if the headmaster thought he needed regime assist bringing about change in curriculum he would ask."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"the moderator said."Ms. Laurentis, your rebuttal."

"I in no way stated that I am trying to run Hogwarts. Nor do I think I would do a upright job of it than Professor Kendrick. I am merely stating that the students would benefit from more government intervention. If the Ministry had been more regard with teacher survival of the fittest, for example, we could receive possibly avoided hiring professor Balladanis close year."

"Mr. Weasley."

"My opposition is speculating. There is no way for anyone to say whether government officials would hold found Professor Balladanis to be an inappropriate professor during his consultation. In fact, I would tip towards the opponent, considering that neither I or my opponent have ever hired a prof before."

Both Percy and Laurentis were red in the face. Albus was surprised a Ministry shop debate could get so heated. He craned his header and turned around in order to see what Kendrick 's chemical reaction to all this was, but found that Kendrick was hiding his emotions far unspoilt than either Percy or Laurentis. It also seemed that everyone in the room was paying rhapsodic attention, including James and Lily. The entirely two people who were n't were Samantha and lindy hop.

There was one final motion about law making that Albus did n't really understand, nor did he manage to interpret. He was far more interested in the Hogwarts doubt. Percy 's argumentation was far better, in his judgment. Hogwarts was fine the way it was. Why did Laurentis neediness to vary everything ? What sort of changes was she talking about, anyway ? He supposed the subject would be explored more specifically at the education themed debate which was scheduled to take place at Hogwarts the following month. But one thought that Albus could not get out of his chief was that if Laurentis won, what would happen to Hogwarts ?
******


"The only if change I want to see at Hogwarts is LE homework and fewer exams,"John said as he walked with Albus and the relaxation of their supporter to the Great Hall.

A week had passed since the beginning debate and bookman were still talking about the possible change to Hogwarts. A very big replete page bed covering had appeared in the Daily Prophet the day after the debate, proclaiming that Laurentis wished to alter Hogwarts. This had both pupil and professor up in branch and matter were only beginning to calm down. The professors had been on edge the previous week, snapping at students for nothing and assigning supernumerary homework. This resulted in the scholar being very unhappy. Albus did not quite understand why everyone was letting it involve them so much. It 's not same Laurentis had won. Yet.

It was early on Saturday aurora and Albus and his champion were heading to the Great Hall for the first Jnr 's Dueling Club meeting of the twelvemonth. Albus 's brass were on end. It was at this first meeting that the skipper would be announced.

"If Scorpio gets captain I 'm going to murder something,"John muttered as they entered the Great Hall.

"You 're not even on his team,"rosebush said.

"I am and I could n't stand it if he won,"Amanda pointed out.

"If he 's captain, tournaments are going to be terribly,"John countered."Plus, I 'm Al 's friend."

The Great Hall was in pile chaos, as it always was during the 1st merging of the year. Two team were congregated at each table and much to Albus 's disdain, his squad was holding court of justice at the Slytherin table. He weaved his way through the confused second years who had yet to be assigned a team and stood next to his squad. Scorpius was seated across the table from him.

"Well, Potter, set up to be under my captainship ?"Scorpio greeted him.

"I could say the same to you,"Albus replied."What makes you so sure as shooting you 'll get it ?"

"I 'm the proficient dueler, obviously."Scorpio smirked.

"lull, quiet everyone !"Neville shouted.

Albus turned away from Scorpius and swallowed the desire to cook a come back and paid care to Neville instead. prof Patil stood next to him. Albus supposed the new defense reaction prof had not had a desire to help oneself with the Dueling Club. Somehow, Albus was not surprised.

"Thank you,"Neville said."First I 'd like to announce that prof Patil has graciously agreed to facilitate me sponsor this year 's Dueling Club. As a reminder, all team must birth a prof present tense during practices and it is up to the team captain to coordinate practice times and locate a prof to sit in. The prof does not have to be myself or professor Patil. However, this year we are allowing seventh year Dueling nightclub penis to supervise as well. So as an alternative, you may ask a one-seventh twelvemonth to supervise.

"First gild of line of work is this year 's secondment yr. I 've already assigned you to teams and shall now read off the list."

Albus let his mind wander while Neville read off the list. The only minute eld he knew were his Sister, and she was assigned to lusterlessness 's team, as well as Victor-Marie Hugo, who was assigned to John and Kaden 's squad. A crop of shy looking second years had congregated at his own squad 's spot and he smiled at them, encouraging them to choose rear end next to the senior students. There were five of them. Two boys and three girls. Three Ravenclaws, a Slytherin, and a Hufflepuff. No Gryffindors, but Albus could populate with that.

"And now, what I am sure all the fourth twelvemonth have been waiting for, captain announcements ! Let me cue you that I, as well as the other prof who have been involved with this society have been watching you over the past tense two twelvemonth and have chosen not only exceptional dueler, but especial drawing card. Without encourage adieu.

"The captain of Team One is Marina Jordan-Bell."

Cheers erupted for Marina, mostly from the Hufflepuff tabular array, where her team was seated. Albus grinned. Marina was very prissy and would make an fantabulous captain.

"The maitre d' of Team Two is Harvey Tucker."

John and Kaden 's team. Harvey was a Ravenclaw and all Albus knew about him was that he knew every answer in every one class.

"The headwaiter of team Three is peter Smith."

A Hufflepuff. His father had attended shoal with Albus 's parents and they had n't liked him much.

"The captain of Team 4 is Lydia Thompson."

A rather snobby Slytherin whom was often seen with Scorpius. Scorpius grinned and clapped loudly for her.

"The headwaiter of Team Five is Jace Johnson."

Rose 's team. Jace was a Hufflepuff who did n't seem to ever be not felicitous. It was kind of bizarre, actually.

"The captain of Team Six is Raisha Sweeney."

A Hufflepuff that Albus did n't know well. He swallowed hard. Team septenary was adjacent and that was his team.

"The chieftain of Team Seven is Albus Potter."

King John 's whistling could be heard above everyone 's cheering. Albus grinned. His entire team ( save for Scorpius and his friends ) were clapping hard. He 'd done it. He 'd made captain ! All the uncertainties he 'd had over the summertime about it had disappeared. He, Albus ceramicist, was the new captain of Team sevener.

"The captain of Team Eight is Dayton Coons."

lusterlessness 's team. Dayton was another Ravenclaw who had multiple cyclopaedia in his brain.

"That 's all for today. Captains, please shape out a time for your first practice, which should take place during the next two weeks. Once you have a date, please see me to get a classroom. Then find a professor or seventh year to supervise.

Scorpio did not say one countersign as Albus talked with the rest period of his squad and figured out a practice clip that did not interfere with four unlike Quidditch teams, Gobstones Club, and cheat guild. Eventually he settled on the travel along Thursday eventide. Neville assigned them to an vacate classroom on the one-sixth story. Albus figured he 'd ask a seventh year to supervise rather than a professor. It was less intimidating for his kickoff exercise.

Albus 's protagonist joined him at the room access to the Great Hall. Scorpius brushed past them, but did not say a Scripture. He looked like he was ready to murder soul. Albus thought he looked far too angry over a lost captaincy. It was just the junior 's Dueling clubhouse anyway.

"Did Malfoy say anything to you ?"John asked on their way back to Gryffindor.

"Not a Son,"Albus replied.

"Do n't think about him,"Rose said."What 's the level ? You made headwaiter and that 's all that matters."

Albus grinned."about of the chieftain are pretty decent, too. I mean Lydia 's kind of irritating, but the rest are n't bad."

"It 's going to be a goodness twelvemonth for dueling, that 's for for certain,"matte agreed.

The six Friend discussed dueling all the way back to the park room. When they entered they saw a star sign that said 'Congratulations Albus and Marina !'Unopened butterbeers cluttered one of the tables and all of Albus 's cousins were cracking them open. Marina was surrounded by her friends and Albus was accosted by his cousins as soon as he entered. Someone thrust a butterbeer into his hired hand and patted him on the back. He smiled as he looked out at the common room, at the party that his cousins had thrown together for himself and Marina. Matt was not only right about the fact that it would be a skilful twelvemonth for dueling. It was going to be a good year in general.


A/N : So I bet you 're all confused about the name alteration ! Well, I 've been doing some thinking and a plot of land alteration was needed. The chapters that are already posted wo n't be affected. The change only affects what I have n't written yet. But the old deed was n't going to exercise with the new plot, so I had to shift it. I like the new one better anyway. And do n't care, Harry Hotspur will still run for minister. Actually, the new plot focuses more on that.

To answer in advance, because I know this will come up, I wo n't tell apart what the old plot was going to be. I 'd rather people not liken the old secret plan with the one that will actually be written.

If any of you are on the assembly, you 'll acknowledge about the tragedy we had concluding workweek. Liza Potter on the archive ( and lizzacc on the meeting place ) has died. She was a fan of my Albus serial and told me once that they were the first story she ever read on HPFF. She will be missed. I am dedicating this floor to you, Mugil liza.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The adjacent day Albus found himself on the Quidditch pitch staring at all of the new Gryffindor custodian hopefuls. There were a lot of them. Try-outs were scheduled to begin in fifteen minutes, yet the pitch had been packed since before luncheon. Albus speculated that some hopefuls, including Hugo, had not even taken a gaolbreak for luncheon. poor people Hugo need n't throw bothered skipping his repast since even an supernumerary one-half hour of practice would not cause helped him.

Students from indorse through seventh yr were hoping for a smudge on the team, including Janie Creevey. Albus recognized most of them, but there were a few elderly students whom he did not. Along with the Gryffindors, there were representatives from early teams, surely there to check out Gryffindor 's new custodian.

Albus stood on the pitch a few meters from the crowd, with his team. Fred was holding a clipboard and heather was standing next to him, gazing out at the students hoping for a spot. James River, Thomas Bradley, and Ryan were laughing about something.

"lull, please, everyone !"Fred shouted. The Gryffindors immediately settled down. A few flew back down to the ground and dismounted, some not very gracefully."Thank you. We only need a Keeper this class. And if you ca n't Keep, you 're not going to get on the team. If you 're hoping to get in as Keeper and then take another 's spot when they graduate, you might as well not waste your time."

Wow, Albus thought to himself, Fred was channeling both Peach State and Samantha Meyers. Usually he would jest around at try-outs, but Albus supposed since he was now in bang, things had changed.

A few of the younger students walked slowly off the auction pitch and into the stands, looking clearly disappointed.

"All right then, I 'm going to accept you fly around the pitch to assess your basic flying acquirement. If you 're not up to par on that, you 'll be eliminated. Then we 'll move on to guarding the goal posts."

Albus stood back while Fred had the hopefuls fly lap around the rake. Quite a few could not even manage to fly straight or action bit properly. About a tail of them were eliminated during the first ten minutes. Half of the remaining Gryffindors were eliminated within the number 1 ten minutes of destination keeping, including Hugo. He hung his head as he walked to the stands, broom trailing behind him. Albus felt bad for him.

The ease of the of the students took longer to eliminate. After about an hour the amount had been narrowed down to ten and they all seemed to be standardized in skill.

"I think the only when fair way to do this is to wipe out anyone who misses a save. Last one standing, er, flying, gets the spot,"Fred announced.

It took another half hour to finish the try-outs. To Albus 's surprisal, the winner was Janie Creevey. Albus had had no idea that she even played Quidditch until he saw her at the try-outs. She grinned as she dismounted from her broom and accepted the extolment from the residual of the team.

"Nice to have another young woman,"Calluna vulgaris said."I thought I 'd be the only one after Georgia left."

"I thought your first cousin Hugo would get picked,"Ryan replied."Who knew he was the sole Weasley who ca n't act as Quidditch ?"

"wealthy person you seen Rose on a broom ?"Albus asked.

Janie grinned."I 've played since I was little. So happy to have won the spot. When 's first practice ?"

"Right now,"Fred said."We 've got the tar all afternoon."

Albus sighed. Fred was turning into Georgia. But Albus enjoyed Quidditch and it was a shining and sunny day, so it would n't be bad.

Practice lasted a few 60 minutes and Albus was thoroughly exhausted by the metre it was over. He immediately went back to his dormitory to take a shower and then set off to settle his acquaintance. Dinner would be served shortly and Albus was starved.

Albus 's supporter were in the predator 's Den, just where he had predicted when he did n't see them in the Gryffindor common room when he had traipsed through after practice. John and Kaden were playing chess and Kaden was trouncing King John, like usual. rose and Amanda were sitting on the couch discussing an essay that Cedonia had assigned the old week. Matt was not there since the full moon had been the previous night.

"Albus !"St. John exclaimed after Al had shut the door."So, who 's the new Gryffindor Keeper ?"

"You 're never gon na believe it, but Janie Creevey,"Albus answered as he collapsed onto a nearby chair."Apparently she has been playing Quidditch for age and was just waiting for the steward position to open."

"Seriously ?"john asked."She never mentioned it all these years that we 've been brewing potions together."

"She 's probably too busy making sure enough you do n't blow anything up,"rose replied.

"Hey, I 'm better than Al and Matt are,"John the Divine muttered.

"Speaking of Matt, have you lot been to see him today ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah, but he was asleep so Madam Pomfrey did n't let us rest. Figured we 'd go after supper,"whoremaster answered.

"Let 's get going now,"Albus said, standing up."Should be starting soon."

Everyone nodded in accord and they set off towards the Great dormitory. The corridors were filled with bookman who had spent the day open air and Albus felt very depicted object walking alongside his friends, despite how every unmarried one of his muscles ached from practice.

"Shhhh, flavour !"John seethed as he grabbed the binding of Albus 's shirt and pulled him into a doorway. Kaden, Rose, and Amanda followed, all looking curiously at John.

"What is it ?"rose wine asked.

"Shush !"John whispered."It 's Scorpio and Willinson 's cousin. What was his epithet again ?"

"Felix,"Kaden muttered."Slimy git."

"Who 's that with them ?"Amanda asked.

Albus craned his head around the door frame. Scorpius and Felix were standing next to a few wooing of armor, drumhead leaned in towards each early. There was a girl about a pass shorter than Scorpio with them. She and Felix had the same color hair, except hers was long and curly.

"She 's a maiden year. I remember seeing her a the sort but I do n't remember her name,"Rose answered.

"I have half a mind to save her from the two of them,"can muttered."She 'd be better off not getting mixed up with the the likes of of them."

"She 's a Slytherin,"Amanda pointed out."She could be just like them for all we know."

Scorpio began walking down the corridor and Felix and the girl followed. Albus and his champion watched them until they turned a niche, disappearing out of sight.

"Wyrd,"Albus said as they began walking to dinner once more."I 've never seen Malfoy befriending first years, except for Willinson when he came here."

"You 're paranoid,"Rose said."They were just talking and they 're in the same household. Maybe she had a dubiousness or something."

"He 's Malfoy,"Albus responded."He 's up to something."

"Oh Merlin."pink wine let out an exasperated sigh."Two workweek into the condition and you 're already picking a row with him."

"Remember last class ?"Albus asked."I 'm only trying to obviate something like that again."

"Fine. But I 'm not getting involved,"Rose muttered.

Albus walked in secrecy the relaxation of the way to the Great foyer. Rose may have been right. Albus may have just been being paranoiac, but deep down he had a feeling that Malfoy and Willinson were n't just talking about homework.
******


Matt returned from the infirmary wing two Clarence Shepard Day Jr. later and the month wore on in its usual way. The professor were assigning to a greater extent and more homework and it took longer and longer to dispatch.

Once October arrived excitement began to brew when the first Hogsmeade weekend was announced. The visit was scheduled for the Sabbatum before Hallowe'en and Kaden in picky was very excited. He never did manage to cause it to Hogsmeade under the invisibleness Cloak the previous year.

Albus 's first dueling practice had gone particularly well. Albus had been pleasantly surprised. Even Scorpio had cooperated and done what Albus had told him to do, although that may have been solely because Professor Cedonia had been lay out during the praxis. His team was shaping up well and he had gamy hope for them winning many tournaments. Quidditch had been going equally as well. Janie had fit seamlessly into their team.

Albus wished he could say things were going equally well for the election. Ever since the first disputation various magazines and radio set show had been latching onto Percy 's statements about teaching and his lack of willingness to interchange, as they had put it.

"Dad 's really stressed,"Bradley said one night at dinner. The Weasleys and Potters were all eating together in order to discuss the election."Does n't save us as much and when he does it 's always about the election."

"Not to mention the five page bedcover that necromancer magazine is doing about our family line,"Cedric muttered as he gnawed on a turkey leg."That 's sure to fuel the fire."

"When is that ?"Albus asked.

"Tomorrow,"Bradley answered."Only ripe component part is we got permission to miss all of our classes."

"Is it really going to be five pages ?"St. James the Apostle asked."What are they going to put in it ?"

"Dad 's life story story,"Cedric answered."Plus a few paragraphs on each of us and Mum about our sprightliness. Just a happy article about how we all love each other and Dad 's a house man. That 's what his campaign coach wants to depict him as seeing that Laurentis does n't have any kids."

"And Uncle Percy has a whole lot,"King James pointed out.

"Hey, you lot better watch out. When Dad told us about this he mentioned that they 're going to do another on the intact Weasley-Potter kin,"Cedric announced.

"Did he say when ?"James asked.

"Around Noel, I think. Adds to the well-chosen menage atmosphere,"Cedric explained.

"Then they ought to interview Uncle St. George when he 's had a bit too much eggnog."James laughed.

"When 's the adjacent debate, anyway ?"Albus asked."Must be coming up soon."

"This weekend, actually,"Bradley replied."At the Ministry again. I think this one 's focusing on law creation and enforcement or something equally as boring."

"Do we suffer to go to it ?"Lily asked.

"I do n't think so,"James answered."Dad said we just had to go to the ones at Hogwarts from now on."

"Speaking of elections, what does everyone think of that government class ?"Albus asked.

"Professor 's very intense,"James said in between bite."But it 's not nearly as dreadful as the other grade. There 's no O.W.L. in it so it 's my current favorite."

"Yeah and I think we 're at an reward,"Cedric said."With our parents being in the Ministry and stuff. A few of my friends have absolutely no estimation about anything to do with the Ministry so they 're having a gruelling time."

prof Embry seemed to be teaching the class in chronological order and thus was currently lecturing on how the Ministry was organized prior to the fall of Voldemort. Albus thought it was a piffling boring but he had a flavour it would get more interesting once Embry started on the declivity of Voldemort.

"And that 's why the grade is necessary,"Rose said."Think about it. No class like this has been taught before, so where did the current Ministry functionary learn the account of the Ministry ? Where did they learn about politics ? They learned it as they went, but did n't know much when they started. That 's a little scary. People should know how their country is run."

Albus thought about what Rose had said as he chewed on his roller. She had a good point. Where had they learned it ? Had his Uncle Percy really known nothing about the Ministry when he started ? No, he could n't give. Percy 's own father had been in the Ministry as well. Still, it was weird to think about.

Albus mostly listened during the rest of dinner. He always felt slightly unsettled when the election was discussed and he was n't for sure why. Nor could he visualize out whether he wanted Hotspur to win or not. Either way, life would be drastically different after Election Day, and Albus liked things the way they were.
******


"Now she wants to transfer Azkaban ?"Albus asked at breakfast a few day later. The law enforcement debate had taken plaza the night before and the intact movement page of the seer was devoted to it."Is n't changing Hogwarts enough ?"

Ministry hopefuls Percy Weasley and
Patricia Laurentis debated law creation
and enforcement finale Night at the Ministry
of magic trick. Like the old full general argument,
sparks flew in this one, with each candidate
speaking passionately about the topic.

'I 've worked in law creation for years ,'
Weasley began with. 'Since the defeat
of Voldemort, I think we can all agree that
things are running smoothly. I intend to
assure that things keep going the way they
are, with enforcement of laws that benefit
the intact wizarding community .'

Laurentis took a more radical stance, in
her answer to Weasley 's opinions.

'Sure, the practice of law we have now are sufficient.
I 'm not denying that. But I think we need
to select a good punishing look at how they are
enforced, or rather, not enforced. The
statistics are take in. Far more criminals
are being acquitted and even More are
being released from Azkaban. In my work
at the prison, I see many criminals being
released whom I do not think should be.
Not to mention the break-outs. There are
far too many. Law enforcement penury to change .'

Without a question, affair are only going to
heat up. The candidates seem to give birth
completely different opinions on everything
from Education Department to Pentateuch. The next debate,
which will be on Department of Education, will pack spot
at Hogwarts on Sabbatum, November the 9th at
two in the afternoon.

"Does n't she run Azkaban ?"Matt asked, taking the newspaper from Albus."So why has n't she changed it already ?"

"Probably does n't have the world power,"rosebush answered."The Minister has to sign off on to the highest degree things, unless all spokesperson and officials disagree with him or her."

"So clearly there 's the great unwashed who do n't correspond with her,"Matt replied.

"Think they 'll ever agree with each other ?"Albus asked.

"doubt it,"Amanda said."It 's like this in the Muggle elections, too. They 're usually complete opposites. What I do n't empathise is how she 's working under Hartwell when he and your uncle agree on everything."

"Me either,"Rose agreed."hypothesis we 're watching the following debate."

"Yeah, it 'll be here,"Matt said."Embry will probably prepare us do an essay on it, too."

"It wo n't be bad,"rosebush said."That will be the debate that will directly impact us. The election 's in April which means we 're going to throw over three years of Hogwarts under whichever prospect is elected. If it 's Laurentis, all those variety are going to affect us."

Bradley sat down succeeding to Albus and threw a copy of Wizards magazine publisher onto the board."article 's out."

"That was fast,"Albus said.

"They wanted it to be out right around the debate,"Bradley muttered."You really ought to record it. It 's awful."

"Rita Skeeter did n't do it, did she ?"Albus asked.

Tom Bradley shook his head."This madam 's almost worse. trust me."

blush wine, Amanda, John, Matt, and Kaden crowded around Albus as he flipped through the magazine. The clause was in the heart, with the two page being a full color photograph of Uncle Percy, aunt Corrine, and their kids. Percy and Corrine were sitting on their living elbow room couch, with Georgia in between them. All three were smiling and waving. Bradley and Cedric were leaning on either side of the couch and the similitude were sitting in front of it. Albus flipped the Thomas Nelson Page and saw a very lengthy clause, interspersed with several motion picture of his family and boxes about each of those five cousins. The article finished up on the observe page.

Upon entering the home of Minister of Magic
campaigner Percy Weasley 's Southampton abode
I am surprised to see that it does not expect
like the home of a Ministry candidate. It is
not filled with piles and piles of theme and
Weasley 's hunting expedition manager is nowhere to be
found. Instead, the floor is cluttered with
toys belonging to the youngest Weasley children,
nine-year-old similitude, Samantha and Lindy. A
plate of tender cookies sits upon the coffee
mesa and Weasley 's wife, Corrine, bustles
into the room carrying a tray of tea. Percy
enters as well, followed by the five Weasley
children.

'I prefer to restrain the hunting expedition at the Ministry ,'
Percy explains after I ask where his campaign
materials are. 'The campaign is employment. It is my
job. The house is for my category .'

"Really ?"Rose raised her eyebrows."She should 've seen his work. That 's where all his campaign hooey is."

The article went on to talk about Harry Hotspur and his fathering skills. Albus grew More and more disgusted as it went on. Harry Hotspur had and always would be a workaholic, but the clause was painting him to be forefather of the year. No curiosity Bradley had not been pleased when giving Albus the clause.

'I could not be more proud of Georgia ,'
Percy said, speaking of his eldest girl,
who currently plays as military reserve steward for
the Kenmare Kestrals .'I 've been to a
number of her catch and it is clear
that she could have a tenacious career in
Quidditch .'

"What a load of droppings !"Albus exclaimed."Uncle Percy has never once agreed with Georgia 's Quidditch career."

"Did he actually say that or was that reporter just saying he did ?"matte asked.

"Oh he said it,"Bradley, who had taken a butt a suddenly ways down the table, answered."Not that he really thinks it."

Albus had had enough of the principal article. His centre glanced across the page and rested upon the small box that discussed Georgia.

Georgia Weasley, the eldest daughter
of Percy and Corrine, is 18 and
currently plays reserve custodian for
the Kenmare Kestrals .'I love
Quidditch ,'Peach State said when the
topic was brought up. 'It 's freeing
and I look forward to playing for
Kenmare as a full Keeper one day .'
Peach State 's pipe dream is to play for England.

Next to Georgia 's box there was one for Bradley.

Bradley Weasley, the eldest son of
Walker Percy and Corrine, is currently in
his one-sixth year at Hogwarts. He plays
Beater on Gryffindor 's Quidditch team.
'I like Quiditch, but I do n't want to
play professionally like Georgia. I
want to work for Gringotts some day .'

Then there was one for Cedric.

Cedric Weasley is in his twenty percent year
at Hogwarts and is the trickster of
the kinsfolk. 'Every Weasley family
has to have someone who will bring the
jokes. It 's like a linguistic rule or something.
I come up with the best idea when I 'm
with my cousin James II [ ceramicist ] .'Upon
asking Cedric what he wants to do after
Hogwarts, he replied, 'Have n't got a clue.
I think I 'll focus on getting through
my O.W.L.s first .'

The final exam box was for both Samantha and Lindy.

Samantha and Linda ( Lindy ) Weasley are
nine years old and attend a local anesthetic
chief schooltime for Muggles. Both twins
ca n't wait to move into Hogwarts in two
years .'I 'm going to be in Gryffindor,
just like my Sister and brothers ,'says
Samantha .'I do n't give care what firm I 'm
in, just as long as I can wager Quidditch.
Well, okay, I do n't require to be in Slytherin .'

"That,"Albus began as he set down the magazine publisher,"was the worst clause I 've ever read in my life."

"I shudder to think what the one about our entire crime syndicate will be like,"Rose muttered.

"Nah,"John said."That one will be better because they wo n't give birth to make as very much up. Albus 's dad saved the whole wizarding humanity. They 'll just spiel that up."

"It was n't only him,"Albus pointed out."Are mass really going to believe all this ?"

Amanda nodded."Yeah, they will. They know nothing about your uncle 's fellowship. Sure, they know all about your dad, but really, how much do they bonk about Hotspur ? Not much. They 're going to want to believe it and why should n't they ? They have no theme Percy does n't approve of Georgia 's Quidditch career. It 's the like as in the Muggle world.

"It would be nice if people voted on prospect who shared their same views, but it honestly comes down to who presents the best campaign. people are n't going to want mortal in tycoon who has issuing with his own family."

"That 's stupid,"Kaden replied."Glad my kinfolk 's not involved with politics."

"My kinfolk is your family line,"Albus pointed out.

"But I 'm not related to your Uncle Percy."

"You still call him Uncle Hotspur,"Albus said.

"Because he basically is. He 's just not my line uncle."

"well, I can honestly say my family 's not in politics and I 'm very gladiolus about that,"John said.

Albus could not think life without having crime syndicate involved with the Ministry, but suddenly he felt slightly envious of John. What would it have been like to have parents who were n't famous ?


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this narrative ! You guys are all astonish. Just as another admonisher, I ca n't answer to critique while I am base for the summer, but I read every ace one. If you have some sorting of head that you need answered about my account, please use my Ask the writer page at the forums or institutionalize me a PM there.

I have another chapter ready to go so that should be up shortly after I return from vacation next hebdomad. Hope everyone enjoys Deathly Hallows 2 this hebdomad !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The following workweek brought a violent storm so long and so intense that Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures had to be canceled for the minute one-half of the week. It was thoroughly impossible to walk outside without being doubled over by the nothingness and the immature students could not take the air without being blown away. The rain was also so punishing that one would go soaked within two minutes. The bookman secretly rejoiced, for the extra unloose periods were helpful to all.

It remained so rainy and windy that even Quidditch practice session had to be canceled on Saturday. Not that Fred would have canceled it himself, but Kendrick announced a ban on going out of doors until the storm let up. Fred lamented this fact all of Friday eve and contemplated holding a strategy academic term in the common elbow room instead, but Heather convinced him just to let it go.

Albus decided to take the chance to spend the day at the library, something that bathroom and Kaden reluctantly agreed with. mat and Amanda joined them as well, for they had plenty of homework as well. Rose had mentioned something about tutoring a untested student and run off shortly after breakfast.

The depository library was absolutely packed with student, most probable due to the weather condition and not a burning desire of the Hogwarts population to study, and it took a good five minutes for Albus and his supporter to turn up an vacate board. It was a lot louder than usual and Madam Pince was glaring at each tabular array of students in turn of events.

Albus set his pile of Holy Scripture down and got to work on a Potions essay that was due the play along week. He had n't started it, of course, but he had a few days to do it. He thought he was ahead of the secret plan anyway since he 'd normally be at Quidditch practice and not even thinking about homework.

John the Evangelist and Kaden, as common, were unable to get started on their preparation right away and were scolded by brothel keeper Pince twice before finally opening their books. Amanda immediately set to work on the Saame essay Albus was working on. mat cracked open up his magical spell textual matter but stared at the Saami page for five min before Albus noticed that his eyes had glazed over. The Oct full-of-the-moon Sun Myung Moon was the following night, so Albus was not storm.

"This is dead boring,"King John muttered after they 'd been studying for an hour."political science back before Voldemort is pointless. It 's completely dissimilar now, so why do we involve to bother reading it ?"

"So we do n't pull in the same misunderstanding,"Amanda said without looking up from her parchment."simpleton, really."

"You 're channeling rosebush now,"John stated.

"person has to when she 's not here,"Amanda said.

"Would you rather do my fortune telling predictions ?"Kaden asked.

"Yeah !"can exclaimed."Let 's see, how about you get blown away by the wind while you 're ignoring Kendrick 's rule against going outside ?"

"perfect. That 'd be something I 'd do,"Kaden said as he scrawled it down."And then I can come down with a nasty cold after being outside in the rain so long."

Albus rolled his eyes. The two of them had been mad to fill Divination in the first position, but at least they seemed to enjoy making up their fake predictions. Albus grinned to himself as John Lackland and Kaden snorted into their parchment, laughing over some absurd prognostication.

An hour later Albus had finished his essay, as had Amanda. The two of them had moved on to metamorphosis meter reading. John and Kaden had given up on homework and were planning an elaborate antic that involved a chicken, birdseed, and the Slytherin common elbow room. matt had been dozing on his magic spell book. Albus prodded him awake.

"How 's magical spell ?"Albus asked, grinning.

"Oh, er ..."Matt glanced at his book and quickly wiped it with the sleeve of his robes."Great, really. Think I 'll head to the Den, actually."

Albus nodded."I 'll be there in a bit. Want to get some of this indication done."

John and Kaden rose to unite lustrelessness. They 'd been yelled at two to a greater extent times and figured they 'd do better to plan in the Den.

"Wait,"John said when he was only a few substructure from the board."Is that Rose ?"He pointed to a head of bushy red whisker at a nearby tabular array."Who 's she with ? Is that-"He walked across the room and hid behind a record book shelf to get a closemouthed look.

Albus craned his headway. Rose was sitting with a modest girl. John returned a few minute later.

"I thought so. It 's that girlfriend we saw with Malfoy and Willinson a few weeks ago."

"hold, that Slytherin first twelvemonth ?"Albus asked. He 'd nearly draw a blank about her, finally deciding that Scorpius probably was n't up to anything that involved her.

"Yeah, that 's her all right,"John said."What 's Rose doing with her ?"

"She 's tutoring someone. mustiness be her,"Albus pointed out.

"Weird. Tutoring a Slytherin,"lav replied.

"What 's it matter ?"matte snapped."No point in standing here watching them. I 'm going to the Den."He hiked his bag up on his berm and headed for the threshold, not waiting for John and Kaden.

"What 's with him ?"Saint John the Apostle asked.

"You know what 's tomorrow. And honestly, what 's it topic if she 's tutoring that lady friend ?"Albus asked.

"You thought it meant something that she was with Scorpio but this you do n't care about ?"

"It 's the Hogwarts tutoring program. I do n't think you get to control who you tutor,"Albus explained.

"I suppose."John sighed."wellspring, see you in a bit."

"See you,"Albus said as privy and Kaden left.

Albus and Amanda studied for another time of day before joining their friends in the Marauder 's Den. King John and Kaden were having a serious discussion on how they were going to hold a chicken and Matt was well-grounded asleep on the sofa. Albus and Amanda settled down with a deck of Exploding Snap and played round after rung while listening to John and Kaden.

"I still say it 'll be well-fixed to throw an quondam student transfigure something into a chicken,"Kaden said a full twenty minutes later."I 'll bet one of Albus 's cousins will do it."

"Yeah, but I want this to be our caper. We could just go rent one of the chicken from Hagrid 's Gallus gallus hencoop,"John replied.

"More chance of getting caught. No one 's going to distrust if one of Al 's cousin is practicing their transfiguration. But sneaking a chicken into the castle ? They 're fairly garish with their squawking."

"Where 's the fun in no chance of getting caught ?"Gospel According to John asked.

"There will be plenty of luck of getting caught when we 're getting into the Slytherin common way. Merlin only knows how we 're going to manage that."

The door opened and Rose walked in."Why are you lot trying to get into the Slytherin common room ?"

"You do n't want to love,"Amanda said."One of their pranks."

rose wine rolled her eyes and sat down side by side to Amanda, picking up a few cards to join in on the next round.

"How was tutoring ?"Gospel According to John asked, abandoning the topic of chickens.

"fine,"rosebush answered."Same as always."

"How did you even get into tutoring ?"John the Divine replied.

"Why ? You want to tutor ?"rosebush smirked.

toilet laughed."Definitely not. Just curious."

"prof Longbottom contacted me over the summertime. Fourth years and above can be in the tutoring computer programme. The professors match you up with younger students and I 've been tutoring a first year for a few calendar week now."

"Yeah,"John said as he got up and walked over to where Rose was sitting."We saw you earlier. That daughter you 're tutoring ? That 's the same girl that Malfoy and Willinson were talking to a few weeks ago."

"Wait, that one time that you and Al thought they were up to something ?"

"Yeah that time. I was just wondering who she was."

blush wine sighed."She 's Willinson 's little sister. Her name 's Elsie. She 's really nice, actually. tranquillize, does n't seem much like a Slytherin to me but her entirely mob 's been in Slytherin."

"Oh,"John said."Guess that 's why she was with Willinson and Malfoy. What do you tutor her in ?"

"Bit of everything,"Rose answered."You lot want to go to dinner ?"

Everyone, except Matt, who just wanted to sleep, agreed and they headed down to the Great Hall. blush wine had been right. Nothing suspicious about Willinson 's baby tagging after him and Scorpius. Albus 's instincts had been wrong on that occasion.
******


Never in Albus 's life did he ever think there would be a professor who could top prof Binns in terms of drilling family. But prof Young had done the impossible. Twice a week Albus and his friends traipsed to Young 's classroom to work on a single worksheet. Cy Young did cypher else, except hand out worksheets. Said worksheets did not even take an full course period to complete, resulting in educatee using the remaining time to hitch up on other homework, something that Young neglected to observe. The only in effect parting about the class was that Young never assigned homework.

"You think he 'll last-place the year ?"Matt asked as they were leaving Young 's classroom.

"Do n't see why not,"Albus answered."Unless Laurentis is elected government minister and deems him unfit to teach."

"He does n't really learn,"Rose pointed out.

"But still, he 's better than Balladanis,"flatness reasoned.

The rest of Albus 's socio-economic class were comme il faut, although nearly assigned too a good deal homework for his liking, but that was not anything new. As the end of Oct drew nearer, Albus became very excited about the first Hogsmeade visit of the year. It would be the low metre that all of Albus 's friends would get to go together and possibly the hold out, given how meddlesome everyone was this year.

Albus nearly did not get to go to Hogsmeade when the day finally arrived. Fred had sprung an extra Quidditch pattern on that day in order of magnitude to make up for the miss practice due to the storm. However, the entire team was outraged and Heather threatened to hex Fred if he did not rescind the exercise. Albus was very save as it was a prissy day and perfect for Hogsmeade.

"I 've got to get a new large number of dungbombs,"Kaden said as they walked down the itinerary from Hogwarts to Hogsmeade."Used them up historic period ago."

"That the pack I sent you over the summer ?"whoremonger asked.

"Sure is. Did n't last too long."

"I need another Skiving Snackbox,"John Lackland announced."And shipment of other stuff from Weasleys'."

"And we need to go buy bird semen if we 're going to do that caper,"Kaden reminded him.

Albus and lusterlessness exchanged facial expression. St. John and Kaden had finally agreed to ask one of Albus 's older cousins to metamorphose them a chicken that they would then somehow sneak into the Slytherin common elbow room. The bird food was to spread out throughout the place in Order to irritate the Slytherins even more.

"You two enjoy that,"Rose said."And do n't come complaining to us when you get a month of detentions, because there 's no possible way you can sneak into the Slytherin common room without getting caught."

"We 'll have Albus 's cloak, obviously,"Kaden said.

"When are you going to do it ?"Albus asked.

"Around Allhallows Eve,"John answered.

"Idiots,"blush wine muttered.

Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes was packed with students. Being the first Hogsmeade weekend, most students had a serious lack of pranking ware and needed to gunstock up. George was behind the counter ringing up purchase after purchase and waved at Albus as he walked in with his Friend. They quickly scattered, each heading towards the exhibit that contained what they needed.

Albus wandered towards the Skiving Snackboxes and grabbed two, figuring that he would need to get out of Department of Defense at least once and story of deception a few prison term a month. John Lackland and Kaden each had about five boxes and matt watched with a disgusted look on his face. Since he missed at to the lowest degree a day or two of classes a calendar month due to his lycanthropy, he never understood why anyone would make themselves ill to do so.

"Should 've gone there concluding,"John said as he lugged his pocketbook to the III Broomsticks.

"Yeah, must commemorate that for next time,"Kaden agreed."But now, off to have a Butterbeer !"

Albus smiled. His cousin had had Butterbeer before when people snuck it back to the Gryffindor park room, but he 'd never had it in Hogsmeade before.

The Three broom handle was crowded, but flatness managed to grab a table in the cover. rose set off to get them all Butterbeers. They had been there for about fifteen minutes before Scorpio showed up, followed by Garth Octavius, Xavier Goyle, Felix Willinson, and Elsie Willinson. Scorpius surveyed the room and his optic rested upon Albus. Smirking, he sauntered over towards them.

"potter,"Malfoy greeted him. He nodded to each of Albus 's friends, glaring at Matt, and then turned back to Albus."I expect you lot are ready to duel adjacent weekend."

"Course we are,"Albus answered."The squad 's plenty prepared. Last practice on Thursday."

"I 'll be there,"Scorpius replied."And I 'll be ready to hold the squad on Saturday since the eternal sleep of our team could n't win a duel against a first year."

"Shut it. Our squad is fine,"Albus said coldly.

"Maybe if they had a decent senior pilot ..."Scorpius 's voice trailed off."But the prof love anyone whose cobbler's last name is Potter or Weasley, just like everyone else in the world."

"They chose based on skill,"Albus replied, staring him in the eyes."Not name. rose did n't stimulate captain and she 's a Weasley."

"But you 're a Potter and you get everything because your dad is the Boy Who Lived,"Scorpius fuss, ignoring Albus 's comment."But I 've got intelligence for you. Not everyone in the reality likes that your entire family runs the wizarding public and that nada gets done without one of them signing off on it. Not everyone 's going to vote for your uncle, you know."

"Obviously,"Albus replied."And just so you know my family may be involved with the Ministry but it 's only because they want to avail people. And they 're only there because citizenry voted for them."

"No one voted for your dad,"Scorpius muttered. Then he turned to Matt."Or yours."

"masses voted for Hartwell, who appointed them,"Albus said."And your dad works in the Ministry, too."

"That 's not the point."Scorpius took a step closer to Albus."The point is that your family might not be running this country much longer. So you 'd better watch out."

Scorpius turned to leave and his friends followed."My kinsfolk does n't run the man !"Albus shouted after him.

Albus resumed his seat after Malfoy left, not even realizing that he had rose from it in the first place."He 's just so stupid !"Albus exclaimed."My household does n't run the country."

"He 's just jealous,"Amanda said."You got made sea captain of our team and he hates that. Your dad 's far-famed and he 's jealous of that."

"His dad 's famous too,"Albus said darkly."Just for the wrong reasons."

"And Scorpius probably wishes his dad was famous for the redress rationality,"Amanda replied.

"Do n't see why. Having a famous dad is n't always a good affair,"Albus muttered.

"Just ignore him,"Rose said."He 's just trying to get you angry with him."

"Clearly Kendrick 's terror have worn off,"Matt said quietly."I liked it in September when he just sort of ignored us."

"It does n't mean he 's going to tell anyone,"blush wine whispered."He 's just looking for a fight."

"It does n't matter what he 's looking for. One slip of the glossa is all it takes and my life at Hogwarts is done."

"And so would his,"Albus reminded his Quaker."Being at Hogwarts, becoming a certified wizard, is everything to a Malfoy. He 'd be nothing more than a Squib if he were expelled."

"I guess."Matt sighed."What do you suppose he imply by your family line not being in direction of the wizarding world much longer ?"

"Probably thinks Laurentis is going to win."Albus shrugged."But that wo n't mean much. My dad will still be in boot of the Auror department."

"No,"Rose whispered."Have n't you been paying attention in Politics ?"

"Mostly,"Albus said, staring at her."What do you mean ?"

"O.K., I guess Embry has n't really discussed it yet but I read ahead in the book. New curate can appoint new drumhead of the section if they want to. to the highest degree do n't because so many new citizenry makes for a bad transition point, but it 's happened a few times. If Laurentis winnings, she could interchange Uncle Harry,"Rose explained.

"waiting, seriously ?"Albus 's backtalk fell open.

rose wine nodded."Seriously."

"And my dad, too,"matte said.

"Yeah, yours, too,"Rose replied.

Albus stared at his half-finished Butterbeer. Having a new diplomatic minister was one thing, but having new heads of all the departments ? The Ministry would be run in a completely unlike way. Nothing would stay the same. Nobody would replace Harry Potter as Head of the Auror department, though, would they ?

"No."Albus shook his head."No one would supervene upon my dad. He 's a great Auror."

"He 's a great Auror, that 's true,"Rose agreed,"but great is an opinion. Hartwell thinks he 's a great Auror. Uncle Harry Hotspur undoubtedly thinks he 's a great Auror. But if Laurentis gets elected, none of that will count. All that will matter is whether she think he 's a great Auror. And the doubtfulness is, does she ?"

Albus swallowed."But that would mean my dad would be out of a job."

"No, he 'd just go back to being a unconstipated Auror,"rosiness said."looking, you do n't need to care about it. I 'm sure Uncle Harry knows this."

"They do n't do that in Australia. All the forefront have terms like the pastor. When their condition is up, the current diplomatic minister can replace them or keep them, but they ca n't get replaced when their term is n't up. Unless there 's a malicious gossip and they have a audience. Like with my dad."

"Department of Energy n't seem fair,"Albus said.

"It works both ways. If Uncle Percy wins he 'll get to replace who he wants and he 'll no doubt supplant Laurentis,"Rose pointed out.

"I 'm surprised Hartwell has n't done that,"toilet said.

"She 's probably kept calm about her opinions so she could keep her stead while running,"Amanda replied.

"So why does n't he exchange her now ?"John asked.

"It would see bad. Remember, half of politics is how you look to the world,"Amanda said."Which is why according to the Muggle Ministry, I attend a secluded boarding schoolhouse in the United States, just in case anyone asks why the curate 's niece disappears for nearly of the year. Which they have n't. Yet."

Albus shook his fountainhead."It 's so confusing. I do n't get it on how anyone keeps track of it."

"Luckily we do n't have to,"Kaden said."Let 's go to Honeyduke 's. I think we could all use with some chocolate."


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! Also big thanks to darkladyofslytherin and onestop hpfan18 because this chapter is the result of Christian Bible warfare with them. You two are awe-inspiring ! HPFF now loads properly on my Internet and I am able to reply to reviews, so I 'm slowly working through them. Keep a look out for responses !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"I say we do it on Allhallows Eve,"Kaden said adamantly while inspecting individual Bertie Bott 's Every tang beans and tossing the nasty ones into a pile on the floor.

"That 's stupid,"John countered."Everyone 's going to be expecting a prank on Halloween. We should do it the day before."

"Why not Saturday ?"Albus suggested, glancing up from the last min essay he was working on."Maybe it 'll rattle them enough that they 'll lose the match."

The showtime Quidditch match of the season, Gryffindor versus Slytherin, was scheduled to take place on Saturday, two daylight after Allhallows Eve.

"Again, the Prefects and prof will be expecting it,"John said.

"Why ?"Albus asked."We 've never pranked them before a match before, have we ?"

"You know, I really ca n't remember."

"Clearly a sign you 've pranked them too much,"pink wine pointed out.

Albus and the residuum of his ally were in the marauder 's Den, attempting to make up one's mind on a day to put the volaille and wimp feed in the Slytherin mutual room. They 'd been arguing for a half time of day and had n't agreed on anything. Albus and Matt, who had been leery on whether to participate in the prank at all, had decided that they would serve as look-outs while can and Kaden snuck into the common room.

"I think Wednesday would be a good choice. Wednesday night. We 've got to do it really late, though. The first years have Astronomy on Midweek, so we have to await until they 're back in their student residence,"John the Evangelist explained."Night before Halloween-"

"By the sentence you manage to do it after Astronomy, it 'll technically be Allhallows Eve,"Amanda pointed out.

"But not Hallowe'en night,"St. John said."Pre-Halloween."

"mischief night,"Amanda said.

"What ?"Albus asked.

Kaden threw another bean onto his pile and started laughing."You 're good !"

"Mischief Nox,"Amanda repeated."It 's a Muggle matter. It 's when Muggles pull pranks and cause mayhem. It 's traditionally the night before Halloween or the night before Guy Fawkes Day, so if you pull this on Wednesday night or early Thursday morn, it 'll be on Mischief Night."

Saint John the Apostle grinned."perfect. wizard do n't do that, so no one will be expecting a thing."

"Mostly it 's Americans and Canadians who celebrate before Halloween, though,"Amanda explained.

"I 'd rather do it before Halloween,"lavatory said."We have Astronomy on Tuesdays so the nighttime before Guy Guy Fawkes Day would be harder."

Everyone nodded in agreement, except Rose, who rolled her eyes.

"Do you have everything you need ?"Matt asked.

"Not yet, but we have plans. Tonight I 'm going to lurk by the Slytherin rough-cut room under the invisibility Cloak to pick up their parole. Wed evening we 'll ask Tom Bradley to transmogrify us a few chickens. Then, Al and Matt will stand sentry go while Kaden and I let them loose in the common room,"John explained.

"How in the figure of merlin are you going to keep the Gallus gallus calm while you bring them to the keep ?"rose wine asked.

"Stun them, of course,"Kaden answered."By the clock time they wake up, we 'll be long gone."
***


Wednesday brought with it a immense thunderstorm which Albus saw as a rather ominous prognostication for Operation Slytherin crybaby as the prank had been dubbed. As the day wore on Albus found himself having doubts about the whole thing. Previous frivolity had been harmless and had not broken any major school day regulation, but this one broke at least ten. This could get them worse than a few detentions.

John and Kaden seemed to cause no such reserve. Both of them were particularly gleeful the entire day and privy even returned from Divination with a smile on his face, which never happened. Matt seemed indifferent to the unharmed thing and acted as usual.

"You do realize we 'll be getting three minute of quietus, tops, tonight,"matte said after dinner, while they were attempting to do prep in the vulture 's Den."And that we have History of Magic tomorrow morning."

John sighed."All right, maybe that was n't the unspoilt bit of planning."

"Clearly not,"lusterlessness agreed.

Albus had a very difficult clock time getting any homework done while they were waiting for the metre to get. He found himself drawing awful pictures of chickens in the boundary line on his August 6 essay. No one else was having a lot fortune either. whoremaster and Kaden were playing chess and Matt was taking a nap. rosiness and Amanda had holed away in the program library, neither one wanting to be associated with the son that Nox."We need alibis,"she had told Albus earlier."Want to be seen by as many people as potential so there 's no chance anyone will think we were with you."

At one in the morning the boys left the vulture 's Den and headed back to the vulgar way, where Bradley would be waiting for them. They encountered no one on their way back and only two or three lingering scholar were in the usual elbow room. All of them went to bed within fifteen minutes and the boys were soon alone with Bradley.

Bradley pulled three pillows out from under one of the lounge and set them on a table."Three Gallus gallus going to be enough ?"

Saint John nodded."I do n't think we 'll be capable to address any more."

"You lot are either incredibly brave or incredibly stupid,"Bradley said as he pulled out his wand."Even James IV has n't gotten into the Slytherin mutual room."

"According to Rose, we 're incredibly poor fish,"John the Evangelist said."But I think it 's splendid. Has anyone ever gotten into the Slytherin common room ?"

"My dad and Uncle Ron,"Albus said."But not to pull a prank."

John the Divine, Matt, and Kaden turned to look at Albus."I 'll explicate later,"Albus said.

Omar Nelson Bradley muttered an conjuration and flicked his wand at each of the pillows. All three turned into Gallus gallus. One Brown one, one Caucasian one, and one bombastic fateful and brown rooster. The rooster opened its lip to crow and Omar Bradley immediately silenced all three.

"Figured a rooster would be helpful,"Tom Bradley said."Want me to stun them for you ?"

"Sure,"Albus said.

"Should finally about a half hr and then you 'll experience to re-stun them,"Bradley told them."I 'm going to take off. Remember, if you get caught, I did n't get the chickens for you. Ca n't yield another detention."

"Got it,"Albus assured him. Bradley took off to the dormitories and Albus turned to his champion. John was holding the rooster and Kaden was holding the two chickens."Back to the Den ?"

The male child spent the next two hours in the predator 's Den, playing Exploding shot and re-Stunning the poulet every half hour. Shortly after three in the daybreak Albus re-stunned the chickens one to a greater extent time and then threw the Invisibility Cloak over all four of them.

It was very difficult for all four boy to walk under the invisibleness Cloak.
Being quarter eld, they were all a lot with child than they had been in second base year when Albus had first received the Cloak. In fact, Albus could n't even remember the last time all four of them had gone under it at once. Albus in detail had grown quite a few inches over the summer and was now as tall as bathroom. The two of them had to walk with their knees bent to ensure their base would n't show.

The walk was uneventful. The boy did not even see Peeves or any of the ghosts out for a night clock time stroll ( or ice-cream soda, which would probably be the more set aside term ). lustrelessness tripped going down the step once and nearly dropped a chicken, but since the corridors were empty, no one heard the audio.

Once they had reached the entryway to the Slytherin common room John the Divine and Kaden slipped out from under the Cloak and scurried over to the door. John whispered the password and it opened. Both boy slipped inside and shut the door behind them.

Albus and lusterlessness stood against the paries a little ways down the corridor, giving them a survey of the stairs as well as the corridor. Neither of them said a word while bathroom and Kaden were pulling their prank because Filch 's cat had turned up and was pacing in presence of them.

The succeeding five minutes felt like an eternity and Albus was very relieved when trick and Kaden exited the common way and hurried back under the Cloak. John 's bag, which had contained the poulet feed, was now considerably lighter. Neither boy said a word to Albus and Matt as they walked back to Gryffindor tower, for veneration that somebody would get word them.

They were walking down the second floor corridor when Albus heard step behind him. He turned and saw professor Young walking slowly towards them, staring at the ceiling as he went. He appeared to be in deep opinion about something but then stopped and stared right where Albus and his booster were. They were n't being quiet enough.

All four boy froze and looked at each other. Kaden grabbed all three of their jump shot and pulled them through the nearest door, while Young happened to be looking the former way. Once inside, Albus noticed that they were in a loo. A girlfriend 's loo. And the floor was soaked.

"Merlin,"Albus muttered."We 're in Moaning Myrtle 's bathroom."

As if on cue, there was a dab and then Albus felt the unpleasant sensation of a ghostwriter floating through him.

"I know you 're there."Myrtle giggled."Harry ceramist had one of those cloaks, too. You might as well film it off."

Albus reluctantly took off the Cloak. Thomas Young would n't be going into a girl 's bath anyway.

"Ooo !"myrtle shrieked."Harry Potter 's son ! What brings you to my lav ?"She giggled again and batted her eyelashes.

"Er ..."Albus muttered, feeling very uncomfortable.

"We were just leaving,"John announced as he threw the Cloak over all four of them once more.

Thankfully Professor young had left by the time they exited the loo. The end of the journey back to Gryffindor was as uneventful as the trek down to Slytherin.

The common way was deserted when they returned under the disapproving glare of the Fat Lady, who had not been pleased when they woke her up. John and Kaden immediately started laughing when they took the Cloak off.

"Epic !"Kaden exclaimed."There was no one in the common room and we spread the feed and put the chickens each on their own couch and left. The Slytherins are going to suffer a rude awakening in a few hours."

"So are we,"matte said as he looked at his spotter."Almost four. We 'll get three and a half hours sleep if we 're lucky."

The male child headed back to their dormitory room, but Albus was not tired yet. Adrenaline was still racing through his system. They had n't gotten caught. Yet. Would there be any way to trace the chickens back to the four of them ? Only if someone saw them, but if anyone had seen them they would own gotten them in trouble right then and there, would n't they throw ? Albus pushed the thought from his top dog. He settled into bed and thought about the response from the Slytherins the following morning.

Bilius 's warning signal clock woke Albus up at eight the next morning and he rolled over and went back to sleep. He woke up once more with twenty minutes left until History of Magic and had to skip breakfast. Albus woke Matt and St. John the Apostle up and the three of them ran through the corridors in club to make it to class on time.

They arrived with two hour to dispense with and the room was filled with laughter and chatter. The Hufflepuffs and Gryffindors were clearly excited about something and Albus had a feeling he knew what it was.

Albus sat down and Bilius turned around in his buns, grinning at Albus."You three missed breakfast. Too bad. The Slytherins are all overturn, fuming about chickens and muttering about getting revenge. Turns out someone snuck a rooster and two chickens into their mutual room last nighttime and gap chicken feed around. Apparently their mutual room was a mess and it took all of their Prefects to Stun the volaille and bring them to Hagrid. want I knew who pulled it off."

Albus attempted to dissemble impact and excitement."Seriously ? That 's brilliant. Does anyone sleep together who did it ?"

"Nope,"Bilius answered."All they know is that it was n't a Slytherin."

"They 'll never project it out then. That 's three-fourths of the school to go through."

"And that 's what makes it so brilliant."

Professor Binns floated through the chalkboard and began to drone on on about some variety of goblin rebellion. Albus rested his top dog on his hand and began to doze off. Binns would n't even notice.

At lunch, following August 6, everyone was still talking about the chickens. The Slytherins were sullen and were glaring at all the former sign tables. The teacher did n't seem at all upset about the unharmed affair, probably because the chicken had n't done that much damage. zippo that could n't be easily repaired with the moving-picture show of a wand.

"Six in the aurora !"Albus overheard a Slytherin mutter as he walked past the Gryffindor table."Can you opine ? And the dayspring after we 'd been on the tar for three hours."

Albus smirked behind his forkful of stew. If the japery had messed with the Slytherins'training docket, all the beneficial. Albus had finally begun to relax. It did n't appear like they were going to get in hassle after all.

As Albus walked to the dungeons with John, Matt, pink wine, and Amanda he realized that his nap in History of trick was most definitely wearing off. He was feeling the exhaustion and was very happy for the free period after potions. But he did n't dare cut potions because he was quite unrestrained to hear Malfoy talk of the town about the chickens.

During this finicky class they were finishing up an engorgement result that they had started on Tuesday. While Shrinking root was a rather simple potion that they had learned in their initiative year, its counterpart was more difficult and needed stewing for forty-eight minute before the final ingredients could be added.

Albus retrieved all the necessary element while his partner, Limbert, located their potion in the cupboard. Limbert, who was usually very nonchalant about everything, was scowling and glared at Albus as he joined him at their table.

Just as Albus was beginning to chop his celery beginning, Malfoy appeared in front man of the tabular array. Albus looked up from his plant and looked Malfoy in the eye.

"Potter,"Malfoy muttered."You would n't happen to know which idiot Gryffindor put poulet in our common way, do you ?"

Albus snorted."wimp, Malfoy ? I 'd heard something about that."

"Bloody boo,"Limbert muttered as he began to pulverize the rat spleen they were supposed to put into their cauldron."Crowing at six in the bloody morning. eating chicken provender all over the mutual elbow room. Getting their plumage and other stuff everywhere ...."

"What he said,"Malfoy replied."decimal point is, one of your lot got into our green elbow room and I want to know who."He folded his arms across his chest.

"Was n't any of 'my lot'as you say,"Albus answered, hoping that Malfoy could n't pick up his kernel pounding in his chest of drawers."We ca n't get into your common elbow room. Do n't have the password. And even if we did, why would we want to ? It 's probably covered in snake slime."

"Well it was n't a Slytherin if that 's what you 're implying. And I doubt it was a Ravenclaw or a Hufflepuff. A Ravenclaw would n't do something that stupid and a Hufflepuff would n't be able to figure out how-"

Albus rose from his chairwoman."That 's rude. I know plenty of Hufflepuffs that are smart than you, Malfoy. And they 're decent mass, too."

"Boys, get to work now. I believe your potion is overflowing in it 's cauldron, Malfoy,"Slughorn said, gesturing to lustrelessness and Malfoy 's cauldron, which was indeed overflowing. flatness was frantically waving his baton at it, trying to get it to stop.

"Oh for Falco columbarius 's sake,"Malfoy muttered and stalked off towards his own table.

Albus breathed a suspiration of relief and continued to chop up his celery beginning. Limbert retrieved another rat spleen, as the one he had been using was now hopelessly destroyed. He did n't spill to Albus for the oddment of the class except for the occasional"pas the knife"or"turn down the flame ”.

chase potions Albus, Matt, and toilet immediately went upstairs to the. predator 's Den to take a much needed nap. Rose went to Muggle Studies and Amanda went to the library. Albus fell asleep as soon as his header hit the pillow and did not come alive up until whoremonger swatted him with a pillow when it was clip for dinner.

The Slytherins were still complaining about the chicken during dinner and Albus and his supporter giggled every time they heard something about them. About halfway through dinner, Professor Kendrick rose from his hindquarters. Albus turned to look at lustrelessness, who shrugged. Kendrick rarely made dinner speeches when it was n't the showtime or end of term.

"Just a few announcements,"Kendrick said once the Great Hall quieted down."First, I am sure you are all aware of the joke that took property in the Slytherin mutual elbow room hold out Night. I, nor do any of the teachers, have any musical theme who is creditworthy, but if we do ascertain out, be aware that those responsible for will be punished. Entering another planetary house 's coarse room is not tolerated and all students should take this as a warning, in case they have been inclined to do so themselves. Slytherins, please be advised that your password has been changed. If you are not aware of it, delight see a Prefect.

"Second. future weekend Hogwarts will host a few Ministry official including the Minister of Magic, the straits of Magical Law Enforcement, the question of the Auror section, the Head of the Department for the regulation and ascendency of Magical animal, as well as a few of the Minister 's faithful advisors. In improver, both candidates for diplomatic minister will be here as well. They will arrive Friday night and quell until William Ashley Sunday cockcrow. Sat they will be debating pedagogy here in the Great Hall.

"All educatee will possess the hazard to watch the debate by a random drawing since we can not accommodate all of you in plus to the Ministry official and extremity of the general universe that will be attending. The repose will listen via wireless in a few schoolroom. All students are required to take heed or catch. more selective information about that, such as how to notice out if you 've been selected to ascertain and what designation you will have on the disputation, will be distributed by prof youth in your government class.

"I expect you all to carry yourselves and demonstrate to our Ministry that this is a station of learning. You are all representing Hogwarts, whether you are students, instructor, or faculty. You will not pull pranks, especially not like the one that was pulled last night. You will esteem the Ministry representatives. I will pass on you advance info next workweek. In the meantime, first thinking up a few interrogation to ask our candidates in case they have time to do a dubiousness and result session."Kendrick resumed his seat.

"Blimey, I 've never seen Kendrick act so severe,"John said quietly.

"Can you blame him ?"Rose asked."Remember what Laurentis said about Hogwarts ? She all but said he was n't running the school properly. If she wins, hazard are he 's out of a job. He 's got to put on a commodity show next week if he 's got any hope of staying here if she wins."

"That 's insane !"Albus shouted. A few starting time years looked over at him and he lowered his voice."I mean, Kendrick took over as schoolmaster when McGonagall left and even before that he helped rebuild the place. How can she force out somebody who helped rebuild Hogwarts ?"

"She ca n't if she 's not elected,"Amanda said."We just have to hope your uncle wins."

"Never thought I 'd say it, but I agree,"Albus replied."GA and Bradley and Cedric wo n't be happy but can you imagine what Hogwarts would be like if Laurentis won ?"

"I ca n't,"mat said."No one can because no one knows what she wants to do to change it."

"Guess we 're going to encounter out next Saturday,"Amanda said."Think any of us will get to catch it ?"

"We will,"Albus answered, gesturing to matt and himself."Our dada are two of the spokesperson, so I bet we 'll have to sit with our families."

"I hope I get to,"Amanda said."It 's really entrance, wizard politics. In some ways it 's completely the Lapp as Muggle political relation, only with illusion involved. Really shows that we 're all people."

"Me too,"rose wine agreed.

"You can induce my tag if I get one,"Saint John the Apostle told her."It 's going to be difficult to doze off if I 'm in the same room."

"Sami here,"Kaden said.

Rose rolled her eyes."You lot done eating ? Anyone up for spending the evening in the program library ?"

The male child reluctantly agreed. They had neglected their homework the previous Nox due to the prank and had multiple grant due the next day that they had not even started on. Albus thought longingly of his bed in Gryffindor towboat and then resigned himself to the fact that he 'd be in the depository library until curfew.


A/N : Thanks to all who have read and reviewed this ! You cat are amazing. Big thanks to all my writing friends that I word war with. There are now too many to discover individually, but they are awesome.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The day after Allhallows Eve dawned with a violent electrical storm, one that Albus hoped would perish before Saturday, when he would give to face Slytherin on the Quidditch pitch. Albus was feeling much better after a properly night 's eternal rest, although he was dreading having to go to story of deception initiative thing in the first light again. Whose bright idea was it to give them that family two mornings in a row ?

The Wiley Post owls arrived as Albus was serving himself some egg and he scanned the air for his family owl. He did n't see it and resumed piling his plate with nutrient. His parents only occasionally sent him Post now that he was in fourth year and no longer needed a letter from them every former day. However, Albus did see his Uncle Percy 's scream owl making a beeline towards Cedric, who was sitting across from Albus. Cedric set his fork down and untied the letter from the owl 's leg. The owl dipped his beak in Cedric 's juice and then took off.

Albus watched as Cedric read the letter and saw his typeface go from obscure oddity to slight repugnance and then finally extreme disgust. Percy 's alphabetic character were always interesting and it seemed as this one was no exception.

"Unbelievable !"Cedric shouted.

"What is it ?"James River asked as he snatched the letter out of Cedric 's hands."Is he making you sit adjacent to him while he debates following week ?"

"Worse !"Cedric exclaimed."He thinks I was the one who put the chickens in the Slytherin uncouth room !"

"Seriously ?"James IV asked as he settled down to read the missive."Let 's see ... Seriously disappointed in you ... taught you easily than this ... stunts like these could smart my probability for a win in April ... must learn to think about the upshot of your actions ... fifth twelvemonth is for studying for your O.W.L.s ... time to mature up ..."

"See ?"Cedric said as he stabbed his Bacon with a bit too much personnel."He really believes I did it. And with no grounds !"

"Oh now he 's bringing up your bit from that clause. The parting where you mentioned that you like pulling pranks. Oh and now he 's brought me into it ... Oh hold, hey ! He 's going to recount my parents that I was in on it too !"St. James slammed the letter down."No way they 'll believe him without cogent evidence though."

"Which he has none of. Did you get to the part where he 's owling Kendrick, too ?"Cedric asked.

"Kendrick ca n't do anything without proof,"James said.

"Yeah but our phonograph recording are n't exactly fresh,"Cedric pointed out."Falco columbarius, I wish I 'd thought up this frivolity. It was history worthy. I mean getting into the Slytherin vulgar room ? I 've been dreaming about doing that since before first year."

"I wish we knew who did it. I 'd like to get some tips,"James added."They 're going to go down as Hogwarts legends."

Albus hoped that his maddened blushing was n't noticeable. He could not conceive that Percy actually believed Cedric pulled the prank without any grounds. Cedric could n't get in difficulty without evidence, could he ? If he did, Albus would experience terrible. He already felt awful that Percy had even had the nerve to accuse Cedric for something that Albus and his friends did, something Cedric had no part of.

"We 've just got to count on out who did it,"James decided."To clear our names."

Cedric nodded."Wo n't be that voiceless. No prank can be done without evidence left behind. It 's impossible to do in this seat. We 'll look for clue around our own vulgar way because I think the Slytherins are decently. It was a Gryffindor."

"We should talk to the ghosts, too,"Saint James the Apostle said."They wander at all hours."

"Right,"Cedric agreed."Best be off to course of study now, though.

Albus turned to St. John after his brother and cousin had left the table. John and matte had both been sitting close enough to Cedric and James to hear the total conversation. Both boys were paler than common and Albus was for sure he was as well.

"Vinca minor saw us,"matte whispered."We 'll be number one on their suspect list."

"D'you think your own pal would wrench us in ?"John Lackland asked.

Albus laughed."Of course of instruction he would. He 's my brother."

"goodness dot,"John muttered."What are we going to do ?"

"Hope Myrtle does n't say anything,"Albus said.

"That 's it, we 're doomed."Matt sighed.

"On the summation English, we 'll be Hogwarts legend,"John said.

"Tell that to my parents,"Matt replied.

Albus thought about James River and Cedric 's quest to figure out who pulled the volaille harlequinade during the entirety of story of magic. They had n't left any traces behind except for talking to Vinca minor. And even that only proved that they were out of bed at four in the morning, not that they 'd left chickens in the Slytherin common room. indisputable, there might have been random volaille plume in the unwashed room that morning but the house elves would have already cleaned them up. Then there was Bradley.

Omar Bradley. Albus 's stomach dropped. Would Bradley rat out Albus in club to save his own brother from potential trouble ? Albus liked to think not, especially since doing so would incriminate Bradley as well. But it was possible that Bradley would request Cedric to leave him out of it when he told Kendrick in replication for the information in the first space. Albus rubbed his brow. It was all so obscure and there were too many possibilities.

flatness and privy looked equally disturbed by the possibility. Both boys were sitting completely still, staring at Professor Binns but not looking at him. mat was absentmindedly doodling in his notebook. John was twirling his shaft around in his bridge player and had splattered ink all over himself and his History of Magic book.

Albus was grateful that they had Care of Magical fauna succeeding, despite the steadfast soaker. They would be able to talk. Hagrid was currently teaching them about unicorns and this picky moral he had an actual unicorn for them to observe and interact with. Luckily for Albus, lavatory, and matt, unicorns did not like boys and thus had an excuse to hang back and talk.

"The only way they 're going to find out is if they talk to Bradley and Thomas Bradley tells them,"Albus said as they pretended to take notes on the unicorn, which was currently surrounded by the girls of the class.

"Or if they talk to Vinca minor and put the clew together,"lusterlessness pointed out.

"What clues ?"John asked."We did n't go away anything behind."

"Not that you know of. But they were right when they said aught can be done at Hogwarts without someone knowing about it. For all we know there was another ghost lurking by the Slytherin green room while we were there that we did n't bill,"flatness explained."Or the fact that we were n't in the common room death night-"

"We 're rarely in the common room,"John said."Not since we found the Marauder 's Den."

"True. They could also mouth to Bilius or Ethan and find out that we got back at four in the morning time. Ethan woke up when we got back and asked what we were up to, commend ?"lustrelessness said.

"That would n't secernate them anything more than Myrtle would,"Albus replied as he scrawled a few greenback about how the unicorn was pawing at the ground.

"What if they find feathers or chicken feed or something ?"Matt asked.

"That will throw all been cleaned up by now. The house elves clean-living everyday,"John said."I think Albus is the right way. The merely way they 'll know is if they talk to Bradley. Or if they just assume and ask us about it. Al, are you going to be able to lie to them if they ask you ?"

"Er ..."Albus 's spokesperson trailed off. He knew how much of a rotten liar he was."To be honest ? Probably not."

cipher said anything for a few minute of arc. Each boy pretended to be absorbed in taking notes on the unicorn.

"There 's nothing we can do, then,"Matt finally said."We ca n't stop them or assure them not to inquire because that would seem suspicious. All we can do is wait and hope they do n't figure it out."

Albus nodded. Matt was completely rightfulness, of course. But what Albus did n't say was that James and Cedric would figure it out. They were the school tricker and for the first time they 'd been out-pranked. The two were the school 's prank experts and could easily observe the lead that would leave them right to their own brother and cousin.
******


The rough thunderstorm that had plagued Hogwarts the day before cleared up by Sat morn and the conditions could not give been better for Quidditch. It was cheery, with slight cloud cover and lilliputian confidential information. The temperature was mild for November. weather would not be a ingredient in this Quidditch match. No, the team that won would win solely based on their skill.

The Hogwarts population, both students and professor alike, were very excited for the match. House Quidditch had been suspended the old twelvemonth in lodge for the Quidditch and Dueling competitions with the school day from New York and Australia, although the final match in the Quidditch upshot had been a catastrophe. Everyone at Hogwarts was ready for affair to go back to normal and that included household Quidditch.

Normal also included the twit that went on between the Gryffindors and Slytherins at breakfast right before the mates. Malfoy informed Albus that he needed to learn out else he find himself in the infirmary Wing for days. Albus ignored this because Malfoy was n't even on the Slytherin team and did n't have enough Quidditch acquirement to be on a nipper 's team. He tried his best to discount the taunting from the actual Slytherin squad as well, but still found his tum was a bit too sickish to eat much more than than toast.

The squad gathered around Fred in the changing way shortly before the equal, set up to try his inaugural team speech.

"I fully believe we can win this,"Fred began."Our drill have gone very smoothly and it feels like Janie has played with us for days rather than only a few weeks. Slytherin plays dirty, though, so watch yourselves. They also have two new musician, a pursuer and a Beater, whereas we only have one. The new chaser is a second year and the new Beater is a third year, so I do n't call up we 'll have a lot take there. I 've seen them practice and they still do n't influence as a seamless team like we do. Just go out there and play like we did two years ago and we 're certain to win."

The squad stood up and followed Fred out onto the lurch. The ground was subdued beneath Albus 's exploit, but not too muddy, which would make for a goodness bang off. He stood in between Heather and Henry James while Fred went to shake men with Henry Fielding, Slytherin 's captain.

Oteski shouted his desire for a clean match and then the two captains crunched each other 's hands. Oteski released the Bludgers and Snitch and then tossed the Quaffle into the air. Albus kicked off from the ground and flew towards the Quaffle, which had unfortunately been caught by Fielding.

"And they 're off !"Sir Alexander Robertus Todd John Smith announced."First House mate in two years due to the break utmost class, during the challenger with the former schools. Both teams have some new faces this class. Slytherin has a new pursuer, second year Marshall Belby, and a new Beater, tertiary year Devonshire wright. Gryffindor has a new Keeper, fourthly class Janie Creevey ...."

Albus tore his attention from Smith as the fellow Gryffindor began to announce the names of the residue of the thespian. Leaning forward on his Scots heather, Albus soared to the early position of the pitch, where Fielding was attempting to throw the Quaffle into one of Gryffindor 's goal posts.

"Spectacular salvage by Creevey !"Smith shouted."Looks like she 's going to be an first-class steward for Gryffindor. Gryffindor now in possession. Calluna vulgaris Weasley in self-will, passes to Albus Potter ...."

Albus caught the Quaffle, wedged it under his arm, and sped down to the other slope of the lurch. He dodged two of Slytherin 's Chasers but was hit by a Bludger sent from Wright and dropped the Quaffle. It was intercepted by Peyton Haines.

Albus swore loudly and tailed Haines as he turned around and headed towards Gryffindor. Fred managed to catch the Quaffle after Haines was hit by a Bludger and tossed it back to Albus.

This time Albus made it to the Slytherin goal posts and feigned right before sending the Quaffle soaring through the left field hoop.

"Score !"Smith announced."Albus thrower scores the first goal of the friction match. Ten tip to Gryffindor !"

The remainder of the mates continued in the same fashion, with the Quaffle continuously exchanging paw, rendering it very difficult for Ian Smith to hold on up with the comment. Gryffindor maintained a about incessant musical score of XX dot ahead of the Slytherins. Albus scored two Sir Thomas More end and assisted on five more. The Slytherin chaser looked more and more gross out as the match wore on.

An 60 minutes and a half into the match Albus saw James I abandon his stead above the rest of the histrion and fly towards the background. hunting watch Pucey, Slytherin 's seeker, followed.

"Looks like potter has seen the Snitch !"Kathryn Elizabeth Smith exclaimed.

Albus watched while flying the Quaffle to the Slytherin goal post. Saint James had his arm outstretched towards a glittering object when Devon Willard Huntington Wright slammed her Beater 's bat towards a nearby Bludger. But the Bludger suddenly soared upward, leaving cipher in between the bat and James 's leg. Devonshire 's bat collided with James IV 's leg, sending him sprawling onto the ground. Albus stopped where he was.

The total crowd gasped, with the exception of the Slytherins, who were cheering. Pucey was flying around the pitch holding the struggling Snitch in his outstretched hand. Albus ignored this and flew directly to James, who was clutch his leg on the ground.

Albus abandoned his broom once he landed and hurried towards James. He was surrounded by gentlewoman Pomfrey, professor Oteski, Professor Kendrick, prof Longbottom, the rest of the Gryffindor squad, and surprisingly, Devon.

Albus paused to appear at the young woman. She was small, like nigh second years are, but powerful. Her unsporting blonde hair was in a messy bun and her fount was streaked with tears. As Albus got closer, he could hear that she was whispering"I 'm sorry"over and over again.

"Foul !"Heather shouted."That 's a foul ! I want a rematch !"

"Let 's get Henry James to the Hospital flank and then we 'll interest about a rematch,"Neville said as madam Pomfrey conjured a stretcher.

"Finally, somebody with some sense around here,"Madam Pomfrey muttered."All of you, out of the way !"

The crowd quickly dispersed as Madam Pomfrey guided the coping stone towards the castle, followed by the cumulate prof. After a few minutes, Professor Patil ordered the residual of the pupil to get back to their common rooms. Albus walked back to the rook with his team, who were heading straight to the infirmary Wing.

James was resting once they got there, his leg bandaged but no longer stop. He no longer looked to be in pain, but looked like he wanted to hex the entire Slytherin team. Madam Pomfrey appeared in battlefront of them before they could reach James 's bed.

"Ten minutes,"she said."That 's all."

"Are we getting a rematch ?"was the get-go thing out of James 's mouth."No one will tell me anything."

"They have n't said anything yet,"Fred replied."How 's the leg ?"

"Fine, now. Just a petty painful. Madam Pomfrey said I can leave tomorrow good afternoon,"James told them."We better get a rematch. That was a foul. I was two seconds from catching the snitcher when that new Beater went and hit me with her bat ! Who does she think she is ? Does n't she fuck the rules of Quidditch ? Or is that how Slytherin 's training their participant these daytime ?"

"She was going for a Bludger,"Albus explained."You probably could n't see it because she was behind you, but there had been a Bludger. It flew up at the survive second and she accidentally got your leg."

"How do they know that ?"Jesse James asked."She might 've made that up."

"Everyone saw it,"Albus said quietly.

"It 's confessedly,"Heather agreed."I do n't get it on if they 'll give us a rematch."

The door to the Hospital Wing opened, revealing the Beater in query. She walked tentatively inner and stopped when she saw the full Gryffindor team. Madam Pomfrey greeted her and they spoke in voices too quiet to take in before she walked slowly over to Henry James 's bed.

"I know you probably detest me and I do n't blame you,"she whispered."But I really am sorry. It really was an chance event. I swear it. It was my first match."

Albus glanced at the rest of his team. Their looking at of confusion mirrored his own thoughts.

"Er, well, thanks for the excuse, I guess,"St. James the Apostle said.

"Is your leg ok ?"she asked.

"It 's fine now,"King James replied.

Devon reached into her robes and pulled out a bar of Honeyduke 's hot chocolate. She handed it to Epistle of James, her heart staring at his bed and not meeting his glimpse the entire time."Here,"she whispered.

"Er, thanks,"James said as he took the chocolate.

"Um, I 'm going to go now. Bye,"Devonshire said and turned to run from the Barbara Ward, before any of the Gryffindor team had time to respond.

"That was strange,"James muttered after the doors had slammed shut."Anyone partiality some drinking chocolate ?"

"She 's got a calf love on you,"Ryan announced.

"Does not,"Jesse James argued.

"Have we ever had a Slytherin apologize for injuring one of us before, let alone establish us chocolate ?"Fred asked."I 'm with Ryan on this one."

"Well clearly some of them have conscience,"Albus replied."But yeah, she likes you."

"She 's twelve,"James said flatly.

"Girls mature faster than blokes."heather smirked."So, actually, she should be just about mightily for you."

"Shut up,"Saint James the Apostle muttered."Not sharing my umber anymore."

"Ten minute of arc are up !"Madam Pomfrey announced as she returned to James IV 's bed bearing a tray that contained a few nasty looking potions."And these are for you, James."

Albus and the rest of the team bade James adieu and left the Hospital Wing. They walked up to Gryffindor Tower together, but parted once they entered the common elbow room. Albus found his friends at a table near the door to the dormitories and sat down to explain the integral Devonshire Frank Lloyd Wright thing.

"So she was actually upset that she had broken James 's leg ?"John asked.

"And she apologized ?"Matt added.

"And gave him chocolate ?"Kaden continued.

Albus nodded."Strange, is n't it ?"

"Very,"John agreed."I 'm surprised she 's on the team. Is n't it a requirement for the Slytherin team to be a fan of fury ?"

"She might not be on much longer, right ?"lusterlessness asked.

"It was an accident,"Albus said."I already said that. The rest of the squad saw it and so did half the professor. So there 's probably not going to be a replay either."

"That 's not clean,"John muttered.

"It 's only the number 1 peer,"Albus pointed out."Plenty Thomas More time to gain those stage back. And their Seeker is dreaded anyway. He could n't take caught that Snitch if James had n't throw been hit."

Albus, Matt, and John spent the end of the good afternoon discussing Quidditch and Gryffindor 's fortune of winning the Quidditch Cup. They factored in the acquirement level of all the players on all the menage and the breaker point earned so far, along with the possible weather hinderances that were surely to come. Kaden paid care, but did n't give much except for the occasional input about how something was unlike in football. Amanda did the same, lay aside for the football game gossip. Rose sigh and dug a book out of her bag and register it until they had finished.

Professor Oteski was at supper that night, which was a rarefied occurrence due to the fact that he has a wife and Edward Young nestling in Hogsmeade and normally was only at the rook for classes and Quidditch catch. Towards the end of the meal he rose, rendering the total Marguerite Radclyffe Hall silent.

"The other prof and I have reviewed the consequence at today 's lucifer,"Oteski began."We 've taken into account a few take bookman'observations-"

"He interviewed me,"Fred said.

"-along with the prof'. I have come to the conclusion that the act of a Slytherin Beater hitting Gryffindor 's quester with her Beater 's Bat was an unfortunate fortuity. No disciplinary action at law will be taken against her, nor will a rematch be taking place."He resumed his seat.

All of Gryffindor groaned while Slytherin rejoiced. Albus glanced over at their table and saw that Devon Frances Wright was the only Slytherin not shouting in excitement. Instead she had her head on her handwriting and was picking at her dinner party. She was a very odd Slytherin, that was for sure.

"I really did n't think there 'd be a rematch,"Fred said."But hear, we can still win. Losing the firstly match does n't mean we 'll lose the Cup."

"Someone 's going to have to separate James,"Calluna vulgaris replied."He wo n't be pleased. I 'm fairly certain he can bet the number of times he has n't caught the canary on one hand."

Albus thought back to the sentence James IV had lost a match against Linda the lamia and hid in the Shrieking hovel. Luckily his crony had come a foresighted way from that and would not palpate the need to enshroud after missing the sneak.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! I 'm back at schoolhouse now, so I wo n't be writing as much. But I have a few chapters saved up, so I 'm hoping to update frequently for the following month at to the lowest degree.

If you are enjoying this level ( or any of my narration ), head over to the forums and nominate one for a Dobby accolade ! Be sure to read the rules before posting. : )


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was very unbosom that he was not given the task of telling James that there would not be a replay. Fred, being the police chief, took that job for himself and the rest of the squad merely went with him. Jesse James was understandably knock over, but did n't acquire the news nearly as badly as Albus would have got expected. Perhaps he was maturing, if even a small sum of money. On Sunday, James was released from the Hospital flank and life history at Hogwarts returned to convention if only for a few days.

After a double class of potions and single course of study of Transfiguration on Tues, Albus and his Friend had political relation and this was the day where they would recover out who would get to sit in the Great Hall during the debate on Sat. The Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs were understandably more talkative in the minutes before professor Embry began class. nearly of the pupil hoped that they would get to attend the debate, with the exclusion of lavatory and a few of the Hufflepuffs. Albus and matt would be attending it either way, so they doubted either of them would be picked. Rose had also found out that since she was Percy 's niece, she would also get to advert no thing what.

"Settle down, ensconce down,"Embry said once the clock struck three. He smiled and then quickly took attendance."I 'm very happy to see how charge you are for Saturday 's debate. It 's very energise to see Pres Young people so worry in politics. Since I know none of you will pay attending during year unless I announce who gets to attend before I begin, I will denote them now."

The course of study immediately began whispering until Embry located a bit of parchment on his desk and cleared his throat."Now, a few of you are able to serve the disputation without being chosen. Matt Eckerton and Albus Potter, since both your fathers are drumhead of section at the Ministry you will be capable to go to. Rose Weasley, since you are related to one of the candidates, you may serve as well. And not to worry, everyone else, they will not take away spots from the regular scholarly person body.

"One boy and one daughter were picked randomly from each year, for each house. So eight educatee from each year were chosen total. For Hufflepuff the favourable two are Olivia Price and Ronald Bones."

"Yes !"Ronald shouted. He was a rather loud, light-haired haired boy, who reminded Albus a lot of Kaden. Olivia just smiled. She was quiet, but as one of Hufflepuff 's Beaters, was quite forceful.

"And for Gryffindor we have Ethan Kesse and Marina Jordan-Bell,"Embry continued.

Both let out ecstatic outcry and the rest of the class clapped before everyone settled down. All four winning educatee were still grinning when Embry began speaking once more.

"Congratulations to all four of you. This will not be the only debate to look at place at Hogwarts and for the succeeding one, different student will be chosen. Now, on Sat, you are to account to the Great residence at ten o'clock in the morning. The disputation will begin at eleven. You will give your name to whichever professor is waiting by the threshold and then a Prefect will exhibit you to where you are supposed to sit. Sami goes for you, matt, Albus, and Rose."

Embry set the parchment down on his desk and smiled as he walked closer to the mesa of his scholarly person."Now, what professor Kendrick has not told you yet, because it has only just been finalized, is that both candidates will be hosting two joint enquiry and answer sessions. These will be for student and Hogwarts staff only. The Lapp students chosen to attend the argument will be able-bodied to see the head and result session. It will shoot topographic point at three in the Great Hall. Please get in at two-thirty.

"Everyone else will be listening to the public debate on the wireless. Fourth year Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs will be in the Transfiguration classroom. Please theme there by ten-thirty. Everyone, no subject whether they are attending the debate or listening on the wireless are expected to compose a foot long essay on which nominee you thought was more successful in making their point. It will be due at the beginning of next week 's class."

The integral class groaned at the quotation of the essay. Embry ignored this and began his public lecture. They had finally made it into the twentieth century, but were still far from learning about how everything in the Ministry changed after Voldemort was defeated.

The rest of the workweek passed very slowly. The Hogwarts students were getting very excited at the aspect of the candidates arriving for their debate, with the exception of Bradley and Cedric. Even Saint John and Kaden, neither of whom were going to attend the argument, were catching a little bit of exhilaration. Albus was rather shocked at how the majority of the student were getting involved with the election. Being someone who had grown up with politics and the Ministry of magic, he was not quite as thrilled with the view, especially when reporter from the Daily prophesier showed up on Fri morning.

"Want to accept stakes on how quickly they find you ?"John asked as they passed two reporters on their way to tutelage of Magical Creatures.

Albus glanced at the reporters. One was a very magniloquent and rangy man, with messy Robert Brown haircloth and considerable shuck on his look. He was frantically writing down questions that the former reporter, an equally tall woman with huge red back talk and black tomentum, was asking an uncomfortable looking initiatory year.

"paseo faster,"Albus nudged John as they neared the oak doorway.

Albus had absolutely no desire to appear in any issuance of the Daily seer. Neither of his parents liked reporters and that was a trait they had passed down to Albus. He made a mental note to monish Bradley and Cedric about them the next fourth dimension he saw his two first cousin.

In an effort to deflect the reporter, Albus, matt, and John spent their liberate period after charms in the Marauder 's Den. With any luck when the Ministry officials arrived the reporter would grant up trying to consultation random Hogwarts scholarly person. Although Albus knew it was not random at all. At luncheon, after Care of Magical beast, he found out that no lupus erythematosus than four of his cousins, along with Lily, had been interviewed that cockcrow.

The functionary were arriving just as Albus and his Friend were heading to the Great Granville Stanley Hall for dinner. They paused on the grand staircase while the blue-robed beldame and wizards entered the Great entrance hall, gracefully avoiding the reporters that were standing adjacent to the entranceway to the Great Hall. Albus recognized nearly all of them, including his dad, Uncle Percy, and flatness 's dad.

The Staff tabular array had been magically elongated enough to offer up seats for all of the Ministry officials, who had at sat down and began speaking with the professors. Albus and his supporter all found seats at the Gryffindor table, near all his cousins. Cedric was scowling while reading a letter. He then crumpled it up and then set flak to it with his wand.

"Dad still thinks we pulled that joke, James I,"Cedric muttered."Says he 's going to fix fourth dimension to speak with me before he leaves."

"We 'll find out,"James said."We still have n't talked to all the ghosts."

"All except Moaning Myrtle."Cedric shuddered."I do n't project talking to her."

"She 's our close hope,"James said."We 're going to chance her. After all this debate poppycock is over."

Albus let out a sigh of embossment. He had two more days. In all honestness, he 'd nearly forgotten about Cedric and James 's quest to find out who put the wimp in the Slytherin common room. But apparently his Brother and cousin had not.

Kendrick rose from his seat once the Great foyer was full."On behalf of myself, the rest of the Hogwarts staff, and the Hogwarts student body, I 'd like to welcome our Ministry representatives to Hogwarts. Before we eat, I 'd like to preface everyone.

"outset, our nominee,"Kendrick gestured to Hotspur and Laurentis, who were both sitting immediately to his left."Percy Weasley and Patricia Laurentis."Kendrick then gestured to the tall, rather portly man on his left."Our current Minister, Langston Hartwell."

The respite of the official were interspersed amongst the professor. Kendrick gestured to a grey haired crone sitting in between Professors Patil and Cedonia."promontory of Magical Law Enforcement. Reena Barnes."Next, Kendrick gestured to lusterlessness 's dad who was sitting side by side to Albus 's dad and Professor Trelawney."chief of the section for the control and rule of Magical creature. Walter Eckerton."

Half the Gryffindor table turned and looked at lusterlessness, who gave a smile and shrugged. Never one to let the cat out of the bag about his phratry, to the highest degree of Gryffindor was incognizant of who Matt 's dad was.

"I 'm sure as shooting you all remember Harry potter, nous of the Auror section,"Kendrick said as he gestured to Albus 's dad. He received louder applause than anyone else had.

Kendrick then introduced three of Hartwell 's other advisors, who had rubric that were just as prospicient and confuse as Percy 's current job title of respect. Then, finally, Kendrick waved his hands and food appeared on all the board.

During dinner Fred announced that he had reluctantly canceled Quidditch practice for the next day since it was scheduled for the same time as the question and solvent school term. The rest of dinner was spent figuring out which Gryffindors, besides the large total that were related to Sir Henry Percy, were going to see the debate. Both John 's slight Sister, Asthyn, and King James 's best friend, Nathan, were getting to see.

After dessert had been served and consumed, Kendrick reminded everyone of the time of the next day 's debate and suggested they all turn in early. Albus wondered whether the ministry functionary would be staying in the castle or Apparating back to their own house for the night. Cedric took off for the common elbow room as soon as he had finished feeding, in social club to avoid his father.

Albus and his friends decided to stay in the rough-cut room that night since everyone was so lively and the excitement was catching. John the Evangelist brought a deck of Exploding catch down from his tree trunk and the six protagonist sat around a table acting for at to the lowest degree an hour. Kaden had just had the identity card explode in his face when the door to the common room opened and someone gasped.

Everyone glanced over and the common way went mute. Percy was standing in the threshold, looking very awkward and uncomfortable. His eyes landed on Cedric, who had been organizing his stock of Skiving Snackboxes with King James I and Nathan. Cedric went as picket as Moaning Myrtle.

"Cedric,"Percy said quietly."I need to address with you."

"I did n't do it, Dad !"Cedric exclaimed."I swear it !"

Albus shifted uncomfortably in his seat, glancing at his friends. rose wine was giving him a disapproving look while flatness, John, and Kaden looked equally uncomfortable. Amanda had raised her supercilium. This was preposterous. Why could n't Percy let it go or believe his son ? Or at least deal with it privately ? It was unfair of him to ramp into the Gryffindor common room and foretell out his own son like that.

Percy shook his head."Cedric, you 've pulled joke like this ever since you were little. This one has you written all over it. You, too, James."

"But Dad-"

"No buts,"Percy said."This is not acceptable. Now I 'd wish to utter with you privately."

Cedric did n't budge. Albus swallowed gruelling and looked at Matt, john, and Kaden each in turn. japery were all in good fun, but not when innocent people were punished for them. And Albus had no doubt that Percy would punish Cedric whether he had proof or not. Cedric 's past betrayed him and Percy was too focused on winning the election to give his son the benefit of the doubt. Albus did not like his cousin taking the fall for something he and his friends did. It just was not something he was well-heeled with.

lustrelessness gave a slender nod of his heading. toilet and Kaden both shrugged and Albus took that to signify"do what you have to do ”. Albus sighed and stood up."waiting, Uncle Percy."

"Albus, this is none of your vexation,"Percy said."Cedric has to face his consequences."

"But he did n't do it !"Albus exclaimed."It was me. I did it."

Henry James burst out laughing."You, Al ? That 's nice and all of you to try and go along Cedric out of trouble, but really ? You could n't get into the Slytherin plebeian room."

"It was n't only him,"John said, standing up."Kaden and I did almost of it. Al was just a look out."

"I was, too,"flatness announced."It was the four of us."

Fred and a few of his friend suddenly jumped up from their can and bowed in front of Albus, Matt, toilet, and Kaden."Masters ! You are the kings."

The total common room exploded in applause and whistle. Albus could n't help but grin despite the fact that he knew he was going to be in worry. James gave Albus an odd look before breaking out in a wry grin himself. A few first long time ran up and high-fived them. Hugo was practically rolling on the floor laughing.

"sufficiency, enough !"Walker Percy shouted."Albus, you 'd better come with me. You three as well."He gestured to mat, Saint John, and Kaden.

Albus and his friends reluctantly followed Percy out of the common room to Kendrick 's bailiwick. On the way there Albus could n't help but note that his uncle did n't really walk. He strutted, almost like he owned the station. Albus supposed he was remembering back to his capitulum Boy days. Head Boy was probably now well out of range for Albus, as was becoming a Prefect. Not like he really wanted to become a Prefect anyway.

Upon entering Kendrick 's study Albus was horrified to see that all of the Ministry functionary were there, including his own Father-God. Matt had paled considerably on seeing his father as well. This was bad.

Kendrick glanced at the male child and then looked questioningly up at Percy."I think we need a moment of privacy,"Kendrick said to the functionary,"except Harry and Walter."

The rest of the functionary left the elbow room, whispering to themselves as they went. Kendrick then resumed his rear end behind his desk and conjured enough president for the remaining hoi polloi. Albus took a seat in between lustrelessness and Kaden.

"What 's going on, Percy ?"Kendrick asked.

"I went to Gryffindor to have a chat with my son about that prank last week and as it turns out he was telling the truth."Albus was pleased to see that Harry Hotspur looked slightly ashamed."As I was asking Cedric for a private talk, my nephew and his Quaker announced that they were the pranksters."

"They what ?"Harry exclaimed, looking at Albus."Is this about the chickens in the Slytherin common elbow room antic ?"

"Yes,"Percy confirmed."These four just confessed to it."

Matt 's dad let out a sigh and shook his headspring.

"Is this true, boys ?"Kendrick asked.

"Yes, sir,"Albus replied.

"I 'm very disappointed in you, Albus,"Harry said."This is the sort of thing I expect from James, not from you."

"As am I in you, Matthew,"Walter added."You 've never been one to pull in pranks."

"It was our idea,"Gospel According to John said, gesturing to himself and Kaden."All they did was hold back a look out while we were in their vulgar room."

"Nevertheless,"Kendrick said, folding his handwriting on his desk."All four of you broke school principle and you will be punished. Fifty head from Gryffindor-"

Kaden gasped.

"-each,"Kendrick finished."And detention. As lots as I 'd like to bug out your detention tomorrow we have other matters happening in this castling and none of the faculty is free to supervise. You will take up your detention on Monday evening and you will have it for a week."

"But sir-"Albus and Matt said at once.

"No buts,"Kendrick said."You blatantly broke multiple schooltime rules."

"But Quidditch and dueling ! That 's the week before the first tournament-"

"Your teams will hold to retain drill without you, Mr. Potter,"Kendrick said shortly."You should birth thought about that before you participated in this mischief."

"Sir ?"Matt asked quietly.

Kendrick sighed."Yes ?"

"The, er, full moon is Tuesday,"matte muttered.

"right,"Kendrick replied."Attend the detentions that you can and whichever I you miss can be made up once you are better.

"Thank you,"Walter said,"for being understanding about that."

"Not a job. lusterlessness 's berth is vastly different from missed Quidditch practice."

Albus felt his brass reddening. It had been a valid item for him. Fred would mutilate him in his sleep when he found out Albus would omit at to the lowest degree two pattern for detention. He certainly would n't be applauding and bowing anymore.

"You 'll cover to Filch 's office on Monday at seven. He 'll give you further teaching on what your detention will entail. Now, get back to Gryffindor tugboat,"Kendrick said.

Albus rose from his seat. Harry did the same."Al, you realize I 'm going to hold to differentiate your mother about this."

Albus nodded."Yes."

"She wo n't be pleased. But I do desire to narrate you that I 'm proud of the way you owned up to this when you realized Cedric was wrongfully accused. As frustrated as I am that you pulled that trick, I am very felicitous to have such an honest son. I 'll see you tomorrow. throw a good Nox and remember, I always love you,"Harry said and gave Albus a hug.

"Love you too,"Albus said quietly.

mat was having what was surely a like talking with his own father and once they were finished, the four male child left Kendrick 's subject field and went immediately back to Gryffindor Tower.

"Seven detentions,"John muttered as they walked up a set of step."7. This is worse than that meter in indorse yr when we were caught near the Whomping Willow."

"Not to mention the period,"Albus replied.

"And detention with Filch no less,"flatness said."I 'll be doing at to the lowest degree two of them on my own, too."

Kaden shrugged."Still seems worth it."

John grinned."almost definitely Worth it."

Albus and Matt gave each other looks that clearly meant they disagreed. No, 200 gunpoint from Gryffindor, seven hold with Filch, and no Quidditch practice for a week was not worth it.
***


In true Hogwarts fashion by the succeeding morning at Breakfast the entire shoal knew that it had been three Gryffindor one-quarter old age and one Gryffindor third year that had managed to sneak into the Slytherin common elbow room and deposit two chicken and a rooster, as well as cover the full spot in bird ejaculate. Hufflepuff was especially excited about this because Gryffindor 's loss of 200 points put them in the Pb for the House Cup. Gryffindor was now idle last and the other Gryffindors were torn between their awe of Albus and his booster and their horror that the caper had cost them so many points.

Rose and Amanda had burst out laughing when the male child told them their fate the premature Nox. They were angry about the exit of points, though. rose wine was especially disgusted by John and Kaden 's lack of remorse.

All the ministry functionary were at the staff table, whereas the house table were not nearly as full as the premature day. It seemed that some pupil had not heeded Kendrick 's suggestion about going to bed former.

There was a whoosh of wing and Albus looked up to see that the post owl had arrived. His marrow started beating faster and he swallowed operose upon seeing his mother 's owl holding a red envelope in its mouth.

"Oh no,"Albus whispered as the owl grew closer. His friends glanced up and saw the howler just as the owl was preparing for landing. It landed in front of Albus 's dental plate of testicle and he took the wow in his bridge player before quickly running out of the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall for the nearest bathroom.

The gasbag was already hot when he arrived in the thankfully empty loo. He reluctantly opened it and the elbow room was soon full phase of the moon with Ginny 's high pitched shouting.

"ALBUS SEVERUS thrower, WHAT HAS GOTTEN INTO YOU ? I AM ABSOLUTELY SHOCKED TO HEAR THAT YOU WERE IN THE SLYTHERIN COMMON room AND PUTTING chicken IN THERE NO lupus erythematosus. I DO NOT CARE THAT YOU WERE ONLY THE flavour OUT. YOU MAY AS WELL rich person BEEN IN THERE YOURSELF. YOU WERE BLATANTLY breakage MULTIPLE SCHOOL principle INCLUDING BEING OUT OF BED AFTER time of day.

I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED. THIS IS THE SORT OF affair I EXPECT FROM James IV, BUT EVEN JAMES KNOWS WHEN NOT TO Cross THE LINE. AND YOU DID N'T JUST crisscross THE LINE. YOU JUMPED WAY OVER IT. AND TO HAVE Harry Hotspur breakthrough OUT ABOUT THIS patch HE IS AT HOGWARTS FOR A DEBATE ? ! YOU KNOW WE HAVE TO living UP show IN parliamentary procedure FOR HIM TO HAVE A chance AT THIS ELECTION AND THIS Department of Energy NOT HELP.

I HIGHLY APPROVE OF THE DETENTIONS AND personnel casualty OF POINTS. I CAN NOT SAY I WOULD BE DISAPPOINTED IF YOUR stallion theatre WERE ANGRY WITH YOU OVER THIS. I EXPECT YOU WILL NOT DO THIS AGAIN. IF YOU DO YOU WILL take in MORE THAN JUST punishment AT SCHOOL."

The letter of the alphabet exploded with a abbreviated puff of hummer. Albus stood there staring at it for a few seconds. His mother had not even mentioned how his confession had saved Cedric. There was no mention of how she was gallant about his honesty, like his dad had been.

Albus heard a myopic laugh from behind him. He turned around and saw none other than Scorpius Malfoy leaning on one of the sinks, smirking.

"I knew it was one of you Gryffindors,"Malfoy said."Just did n't expect it to be you lot. Did n't think you 'd be smart sufficiency to visualise out our password."

"Just shut up, Malfoy,"Albus muttered as he pushed his way past the Slytherin on his way out of the loo.

"Loved the howler, by the way."Malfoy gave another laugh.

Albus groaned inwardly. He hoped Malfoy had n't heard much of it, but highly doubted it. Albus took a deep breath and walked back to the Great lobby. Perhaps with the debate coming in an hour, the rest of the pupil would leave about the prank and the loss of points and find oneself something new to discuss.


A/N : Big thanks to my Skype writing grouping. You guys are all awesome ! Thanks for all the amazing followup ! The new banner was done by violet ephemera at TDA. There 's a little under a week left to propose stories for the Dobby Awards, so if you like this story, head over to the forums and nominate it ! Just commemorate to say the pattern first.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was a long queue of students waiting to get into the Great Hall after everyone left once breakfast was over. The Great hall had been completely emptied in order for the professor to prepare it for the argument. Albus craned his head in attempt to see it. As far as he could tell it looked the same except the recollective theatre tables had been replaced by rows of seating. He, along with Matt and Rose, were only a few bookman away from the front of the queue.

Once they made it to the forepart they gave their names to Professor Longbottom and then were lead inside by one of the Ravenclaw Prefects. Adults were milling about talking with each other and bookman were already seated. The first few wrangle were cordoned off with R-2 and the Ravenclaw Prefect lead Albus, Rose, and Matt to the one-third roped off row. He lifted the rope and told them to charge all the way in, to the very end of the untenanted row. Albus sat in between rosebush and Matt. It appeared that the roped off rows were reserved for Ministry officials and their category. Albus noticed that his mum was sitting in the front row along with the rest of his auntie and uncles. Georgia was also in the front row and was handing out coloring books and crayons to Samantha and Lindy.

James, Ben, Lily, and Victor Hugo filed in next to Rose a few minutes later. Albus saw that Cedric and Tom Bradley, who had walked in with his sibling, were being lead to the front row. Fred, Angie, Heather, and Mark finished out their row five minutes later. Albus gazed around the room and recognize Victoire and chemise sitting across the gangway. Stanley walked in with Gabriella and took seating area next to Victoire and Teddy. Albus had to allow in he was surprised to see them there. net he heard she was in France and he was in Romania.

The room soon became packed with the educatee who had won posterior as well as early witches and wizards who had chosen to come. Albus recognized a few who worked in shops in Hogsmeade including lady Rosmerta. He turned to the social movement of the room and noticed that the stave table had also disappeared and had been replaced with two ambo and a diminished table, just like the set up in the courtroom at the Ministry.

At exactly eleven o'clock the doors to the Great Hall were shut and the great unwashed began to sit down. professor Kendrick entered the room from one of its foyer, followed by the Minister, Albus 's dad, Matt 's dad, and the Head of Magical Law Enforcement, Reena Barnes. The other Ministry functionary were seated in the front line row.

Kendrick lead them to the humble board near the pulpit. All five, with the exception of Kendrick, sat. Kendrick walked to the figurehead of the rostrum and the audience quieted.

"Welcome to the 3rd argumentation. I welcome all of you to Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and wizardry. Today 's argumentation will be on education. I 'd wish to preface today 's moderator, the Head of the section for the ascendence and Regulation of Magical Creatures, Walter Eckerton."

The audience clapped and Albus whispered to Matt, asking him if he knew his dad was moderating. mat shook his head no and the two looked back to the front.

Kendrick had taken his seat and lustrelessness 's dad had rose."Now I 'd like to welcome our two nominee. Percy Weasley and Patricia Laurentis."

There was more clapping as Percy and Laurentis walked out of the lobby and took their places behind the podiums. Once the clapping subsided, Matt 's dad began to speak.

"Today 's argument will run similarly to past argumentation, with five minute reaction and two minute rebuttal. All question and prompting will be about education. The debate will run for an hour and a half. After it is over, the way will be cleared and then lunch will be served. After lunch there will be a short break and then the student question and resolution session will get hold of place in this same elbow room. Without boost adios, the first question. Mr. Weasley, you will answer first.

"How do you experience about the Hogwarts strong-arm surroundings ? Do you feel it is tolerable and conducive to learning or do you feel changes should be made ?"

Percy took a step forward and smiled at the audience."I believe that the Hogwarts castle is very conducive to learning. Being in a reclusive region provides little in the way of distraction to the pupil. Yet the proximity of the castle to Hogsmeade small town gives student in third class and above a much needed open frame. The only variety I think need to be made are to update what needs to be updated and repair what needs to be repaired."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"lustrelessness 's dad said. He turned to Laurentis."Ms. Laurentis."

"I agree with Mr. Weasley. The Hogwarts castle is very contributive to learning and I see nothing damage with it the way it is. All of Mr. Weasley 's points are very valid."

Albus turned to Matt and shrugged. That was odd. They actually agreed on something. matte 's dad seemed a little shocked by this as well, because he did not say anything for a few seconds after Laurentis quieted.

"All right. Since you two agree, I see no motive for rebuttals. Moving on to the next motion. Ms. Laurentis, this time you will go first. How do you feel about the flow Hogwarts curriculum ? Do you feel the classes adequately prepare today 's young people for living in British wizarding order ? What changes, if any, do you feel need to be made ?"

"The Hogwarts curriculum has not been updated in decades. In fact, the only new class that has been introduced is this class 's class on political relation. course of study is something that needs to vary with the times and be re-evaluated at least every former year. The world is a constantly changing plaza and what students learn penury to vary with it. New classes should be offered and outdated grade should be removed. Curricula for course of instruction that are kept need to change in order to keep up with today 's inquiry. Potions, for model, should not be taught the same way now as it was forty years ago, but unfortunately, that seems to be the case."

"Thank you. Mr. Weasley."

"The nucleus curriculum of Hogwarts is similar to that of magical schools all over the world. The socio-economic class taught here offer basic and in advance statement in subject that superstar need in rules of order to social occasion in society. We can not bear here and urge getting rid of Charms or Transfiguration in favour of some new national that may or may not teach our students anything. Yes, the humanity is constantly changing, but the BASIC while remain the Same. bookman forty eld ago used 'Alohomora'to spread doors and the spell remains the same today,"Hotspur argued.

"Your rebuttal, Ms. Laurentis."

"I am in no way insinuating that we should get rid of appealingness or Transfiguration."She looked offended at Percy 's accusation."All I am saying is that we need to search at the elective that are offered. The basic core course should obviously be kept, although they should be updated. Today 's professor are using the Saami textbooks they used thirty years ago, which is pathetic considering how much has changed in their fields-"

"Your time is up. Mr. Weasley."

Percy seemed to puff out his chest a bit."Those text still teach the basics ! How is a textbook written last year going to be any better at teaching a student how to stir a cauldron ? Additionally, older text have to a greater extent used written matter useable making it more affordable for bookman from humiliated income families to buy their books."

It seemed to Albus that they had gotten slightly off issue from the proposed question, but neither candidate seemed to remark or care.

"Next question. How do you palpate about the way that instructor pick and evaluation is handled at Hogwarts ? Do you experience any changes are needed ?"Mr. Eckerton asked."You may go first, Mr. Weasley."

"Traditionally, the Ministry has taken a very hands-off approach path to teacher extract and I believe this has worked well. Ministry officials do not have the expertise to choose instructor and leaving this up to the Hogwarts staff has resulted in a very educated and well-rounded staff at Hogwarts. Following the reign of Voldemort, a small pedagogy section was founded in the Ministry to oversee things and while it is still very hands-off, I believe the small amount of regularization has served Hogwarts well,"Percy explained.

"Ms. Laurentis."

Laurentis smirked and then began."teacher extract, along with program modification, is the the look of Hogwarts that needs the most extremist variety, in my belief. While professor Kendrick is a very well headmaster, I think more than guidance is needed when it comes to choosing professors. For the past four year, Hogwarts has been unable to fasten a defending team Against the Dark humanistic discipline prof for more than two years. One only lasted a twelvemonth. Other prof have been here for decades and yet others have remained even beyond their own dying. There is nothing haywire, of course of action, with older teachers, but Hogwarts appears to have got no way of evaluating these staff members. They remain here, teaching, twelvemonth after yr, whether or not they are actually successful in providing students with an education."

"Your rebuttal, Mr. Weasley."

Percy 's face had gained some colouration that was not always there."I hardly think it is earmark to blame professor Kendrick for the circumstances of premature Defense professor. Upon interviewing them he had no way of knowing what would happen in the end. As for the other professors, if you would front at the statistics of the O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. effect of the past few years you 'll see that the majority of scholarly person are passing. mightiness I add that those are regulated by the Ministry."

"Ms. Laurentis."

"I would agree that the schoolmaster should not be held responsible for one or two prof who should not deliver been hired in the for the first time place, but Hogwarts has seen more than its clean portion of inadequate prof in the past few years. Clearly something is wrong. More mass need to be involved with curriculum and teacher selection."

"Next query,"Mr. Eckerton said."Do you feel that the protection at Hogwarts is adequate ? If not, what should be changed ? Ms. Laurentis, you may begin."

If Albus was not mistaken, he could have sworn he saw Laurentis sigh and give a slight eye roll before beginning."Let 's just call it what it is, why do n't we ? want of surety at Hogwarts ! The security here, if you can cry it that, is sorely lacking. mightiness I bring up the fact that for the past three years there had been a spartan breach in security here ? Three years ago, a group of first twelvemonth dueled the magic spell professor, a seventh twelvemonth, and that one-seventh year 's Padre on the undercoat for a significant period of metre before the professors stepped in. The followers year, another first base year was kidnapped by that same seventh year, who had then graduated. Last twelvemonth, those same scholar were kidnapped and taken to Australia of all places ! I think we could forgive one incident, but three-"

"Your fourth dimension is up,"lustrelessness 's dad said."Mr. Weasley."

Percy was looking Sir Thomas More and more than disgruntled. His look now resembled his hair."Might I remind my opponent that following the incident three eld ago, Aurors were stationed at Hogwarts and none of the pursual incidents resulted in any long-lasting damage to any of the bookman. Last year, the Aurors were slightly preoccupied by the disastrous contender that took place here. Hogwarts is protected by many trance and all the professor are able of protecting the pupil. finale class 's incident was an extremely unfortunate accident-"

"One that nearly resulted in student last !"Laurentis shouted.

"Ms. Laurentis."

Albus felt like the full way was staring at himself and matt. Glancing around, he saw that this was genuine.

Laurentis ignored Mr. Eckerton."I remind the wizarding residential district that the Aurors have yet to capture the brain of that incident. Which by the way was not the only incident last class. Last class 's Defense Against the Dark graphics professor kept a highly grievous creature in the castle for calendar month before anything was done. And by the fourth dimension it was discovered, it took Walter Eckerton stepping in to take in it removed ! Then, the professor was allowed to stay, despite the fact that later on it was discovered that he had been terrorizing and humiliating student in his class all twelvemonth, not to remark the fact that his curricula were not earmark. Following that atrocious rear of barrel in security, regarding the animal, the same prof proceeded to disclose information that could compromise the lifetime of another student-"

"That is enough, Ms. Laurentis !"Mr. Eckerton shouted."You are speaking out of turn."

Albus was unsure whether Matt 's dad was cutting her off because her clip was up or because she was getting dangerously close to talking about Matt. Come to imagine of it, how did she even know about that ? She could n't possibly know about lustrelessness 's condition, could she ? Albus glanced at Matt, who was looking extremely pale.

"I believe we are out of time,"Mr. Eckerton continued. He looked quite flustered."Please exit the room while tiffin is set up. You may return in a one-half hour."

Albus stood and waited for his turn to pull up stakes the way. The entire crowd was whispering amongst themselves and pointing at Albus and Matt every so often. He was tempted to skip over dejeuner all together, except he was extremely hungry.
***


Albus managed to annul speaking to any newsperson before and during tiffin, which proved difficult because they seemed to bear multiplied during the debate. All seemed keen on interviewing him, Matt, John, and Kaden in detail due to their having been kidnapped the previous June. Albus was quite relieved when the food in front of them vanished and the majority of the people in the room left in order for the question and answer session to conduct place.

Both prospect seemed to have regained their composure during the meal because Hotspur 's face was no longer beet red and Laurentis had fixed her hair and was wearing a smile. The newsperson had been banned from the room for the length of the seance, much to their consternation. lustrelessness 's dad also looked break and was standing in the front of the room in strawman of the soapbox, waiting for everyone to sit down.

The room was often hollow now, considering that only the pupil chosen to listen to the debate and the professors were allowed in the way. Albus and Matt managed to get a few hindquarters in the front end row. James and Lily joined them.

Once the threshold had been shut and everyone had sat down, Mr. Eckerton stepped forward."Welcome to the interrogation and solution session. It will run for an hour and the candidates will answer as many doubt as they can during that metre. Please lift your deal if you have a question."Nothing about the gush during the argumentation was mentioned.

Albus could not think of anything to ask. He had absolutely no desire to speak to Laurentis and anything that he would require to ask Percy he could just ask at Christmas or place him an owl. Not that he really had any questions for his uncle, either.

A tall Ravenclaw boy raised his hired hand and Mr. Eckerton pointed to him."This question is for Ms. Laurentis,"the boy began."How exactly do you pop the question to make Hogwarts more secure ? I 'm nearly positive that the most advanced spells are already used."

"That is very rightful,"Laurentis answered."I believe that we need to look outside the world of spells and impart prof canonic training in defense mechanism against intruders. I think a program, exchangeable to very basic Auror training, would gain all staff greatly."

A Hufflepuff in pigtails had a question for both prospect next."Would either of you change the O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. exams if you were elected ?"

"Only to fit better with any potential curriculum variety,"Laurentis replied."The alteration would come later. Not for at least two years."

"Most probable, no,"Walker Percy said."The statistics prove that they work well as they are."

The question and response school term continued in the Same way, proving itself very dissimilar from the disputation. It was quite the contrary, actually. Albus found himself very bored towards the end, his head drifting towards what both candidates had said during the public debate. He was very curious about what the Prophet would say about it the future day.

"We have time for one more question,"Mr. Eckerton finally said.

Albus let out a suspiration of relief. A glance at Matt told him that his best ally was feeling the same way, since he was leaning back in his chairwoman, his eyes nearly closed.

Mr. Eckerton pointed to a girlfriend sitting in the far back. Albus did n't realise her, but she had Ravenclaw robes on.

"This is for both of you, if either of you know anything about it. Ms. Laurentis, you were talking about prof Balladanis in the debate and you mentioned something about him giving students info that they could use to endanger another student. Is that really true ? And what exactly happened ?"

Albus prodded lustrelessness in the side and whispered to him what the enquiry had been. Given mat 's reaction, which was a look of utter panic, he almost wished he had n't bothered to wake him up.

Mr. Eckerton stared at the scholarly person before turning to the candidate."You may answer the first parting of the question and that part only."

"It is true,"Laurentis said just as Harry Hotspur had been opening his back talk to respond."professor Balladanis was not cut out for teaching and did not understand the fact that there is a stemma between teaching to spread out knowledge and teaching to menace others."

"Does it consume to do with the Anamatek ?"a Slytherin boy asked.

"Yes,"Percy said."The position were related."

"This is why I believe instructor need to be evaluated so we can avoid this type of situation,"Laurentis explained.

"But what sort of information could endanger someone ? Was it in the curriculum ?"the Ravenclaw who had originally asked the interrogative sentence said."Knowledge is power."

"It was not,"Laurentis answered."Which is exactly why it will be skillful for prof to have curricula that they stick to."

"I just do n't understand,"the Ravenclaw went on."If people are kept in the night they just blindly keep up authority. I 've always believed that people should be taught everything possible."

matte and his dad were both wearing similar expressions. Both looked extremely uncomfortable and his dad was fiddling with a hold on his robes. mat looked like he wanted his chair to swallow him up.

"We 're all out of time,"Mr. Eckerton said."Thank you all for coming. The professors have requested that you all return to your park rooms and that you are free to wane comment to the newsperson that are waiting outside."

There was a shuffling of chairs as citizenry got up and exited the room. matt grabbed Albus 's arm without saying anything, leading him directly to his male parent, who was speaking to both the candidates.

"Dad,"matt said quietly, not waiting for him to finish his conversation with Laurentis and Sir Henry Percy.

Mr. Eckerton turned around and his face became sympathetic. He turned back to Laurentis and Percy."Excuse me. My son. I believe you can head up to Kendrick 's subject and I will be there shortly."

Albus, mat, and Mr. Eckerton left Laurentis and Harry Hotspur, who had now begun to argue about something, in the Great Hall and entered one of its hall. The room was furnished with a few sofa and chairs. Albus chose an armchair while Matt and his dad sat down on a couch.

"I 'm really pitiful, Matt,"Mr. Eckerton said quietly."I did not have a bun in the oven endure year to be brought up during this debate."

"It 's not your fault,"Matt replied as he picked at a easy yarn on the couch."It 's just the way she, Laurentis, was talking, I thought that maybe she .... Does she jazz, Dad ? She seemed to cognise an awful lot about what Balladanis did."

"She does n't know,"Mr. Eckerton said immediately."The only people at the Ministry who know are in my department. However, she and the rest of the Ministry did have to know why I was filing a report on Balladanis conclusion twelvemonth. I had to hand intellect as to why I wanted him investigated on that report."

"Did you list exactly what he did, with the Anamatek and his wolfman moral ?"Matt asked.

"No."Mr. Eckerton shook his head."There are constabulary protecting minors in this sort of situation and I was not legally required to cite your name. All I had to say was that an anonymous bookman had felt threatened by a sealed lesson that Balladanis taught. That was all that was needed to launch the investigation. That alone would not throw gotten him give notice, but plenty evidence was found through question students about his teaching methods that nothing else was needed. It was n't even mentioned that it was a third year stratum in my original report."

"But she seemed to know so much,"mat said.

"She does n't. Politicians dramatize what they know in monastic order to get elected. You do n't have to worry. I suppose if she really wanted to she could count at the programme for Defense for that sentence of twelvemonth and enquiry and public figure it out, but it would take a lot of body of work. And trust me, she does not have the sentence for that. Nor does she really have any cause to worry what deterrent example it was or why a scholarly person was threatened or who that scholar was."

"But she said my life had been at jeopardy,"Matt said.

"Again, that 's her embellishment."Mr. Eckerton half-smiled."The only ones who are really singular are your chap students and this will bungle over. They have no way of finding out."

"good,"lusterlessness replied, finally smiling a bit.

"I 'd better get to the headmaster 's study,"Mr. Eckerton said as he stood up.

Albus waited while Matt said so long to his dad and then the two boys headed back to Gryffindor tower. The reporters had either scattered or had found scholar willing to be interviewed, for the boys came across no one but Prefects and a few number 1 years setting off dungbombs on their way back to the vernacular room. Albus was very sword lily to get word that Laurentis did not get it on the particular about what had happened with Balladanis the previous year, but he wished neither her or Walker Percy would ever bring it up again in a debate. Somehow, though, Albus doubted that it would n't be.


Sorry for the tardily update ! meter has gotten away from me. Thanks to all who have read and reviewed. Big thanks to my Skype writing group ; you guys are amazing !

I have a new meet the Author screw thread on the meeting place. There 's a link to it on my source page. Please check it out and ask me questions !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The clause in the seer on Billy Sunday proved to be just as outrageous as the existent debate had been. It took up the entire figurehead page and was ripe with quotes from both candidates and a few students, although none of Albus 's full cousin had been quoted. The Ravenclaw who had asked the interrogative about Balladanis at the question and answer school term had not only been interviewed, but she had received her own article located on the 2nd page. Albus groaned when he opened the page and saw it, complete with a picture of the Ravenclaw in interrogation. His friend quickly crowded around the paper to take it over his shoulder.

CENSORSHIP AT HOGWARTS ?

Yesterday 's newsworthy debate at Hogwarts
School of witchcraft and Wizardry proved
not only to be a meter to learn about the
candidates'true ruling on wizardly
teaching, but possibly uncovered an issue
of censorship that had been looked over
last-place class.

Following the debate a enquiry and result
session was held for those golden few
Hogwarts pupil who had gotten to sit
in the Great Asaph Hall during the debate. The
terminal question was asked by sixth twelvemonth
Ravenclaw Elizabeth I York. During the argumentation
Patricia Laurentis brought up the topic
of the investigation of prof genus Aplysia
Balladanis, old Defense Against
the Dark arts professor ( see clause on
face page ). York then questioned what
information had taught that according to
Laurentis"endangered a educatee 's life."

'I just wonder what selective information was being
taught because I 'm a firm believer that
student should never be denied
information. If it was bad enough
to endanger someone 's life, then sure,
it should not be taught, but no one is
saying what the data was .'House of York
said in an interview following the
session.

After the question was asked, turn over
moderator and brain of the Department for
the Regulation and Control of Magical
puppet Walter Eckerton told the
nominee that they could not say
what the selective information was, just confirm
that the incident had happened. Eckerton
quickly wrapped up the session, stating
that they were out of time.

It is interesting to remark that Eckerton
is the wizard who filed the charge
thus launching the probe of
Balladanis. When asked for a remark,
Eckerton said'I 'm the Head of the
Department for the Regulation and Control
of Magical brute. He had an Anamatek.
I was informed of the situation and had
to convey action .'

The site provided more than motion
than response and it will be interesting
to find oneself out whether this incident plays
a further character in April 's election.

Albus set down the report and pushed away his half-eaten breakfast. Why did the Prophet have to print that ? It did n't seem relevant to the election. Balladanis had been sacked and was long gone. It was in the past tense.

"Your dad 's right hand,"Amanda said to mat later on when they were in the Marauder 's Den."She 's just trying to throw things into a self-aggrandising mickle so she can win more votes. Politicians turn the simplest thing into huge deals."

"I know, but still,"mat said as he picked through a heap of Bertie Bott 's Every Flavor dome."It 's like none of them realize that it 's my sprightliness they 're making a big deal of."

"Honestly, I do n't imagine it 's actually the information that people want,"rosebush said, looking up from her Potions textbook."Think about it. If individual were to leak the information, and say that Balladanis was teaching so often about identifying werewolves that citizenry could see out you were one, they 'd have nothing else to talk about-"

"Yeah, because they 'd be talking about how there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts,"mat said.

"No, that 's not what I meant,"Rose replied."They 're occupy in the bigger issue. The fact that there might be censorship at Hogwarts. They do n't care what the information is that 's been censored. They just care that something 's been censored. And I think that if they really knew what it was, they 'd all agree that Balladanis had gone over the top."

"I guess,"lusterlessness said."But that 's the thing, no one 's going to really know what it is."

"It 'll all blow over soon enough,"Albus said."Next argumentation 's on law enforcement. Aurors, Azkaban, that sort of affair, and Laurentis runs Azkaban."

Albus spent much of William Ashley Sunday afternoon on the Quidditch pitch, which was a welcomed relief from discussing the argument and the election and Harry Hotspur and Laurentis. He loved his supporter, but they all seemed to be capable to talk about the election for ages and he could n't. Fred would have had them on the pitch longer, but Hufflepuff had reserved it for the eve.

The discourse of the security review article seemed to calm down the side by side day, if only because a right majority of the professors had all scheduled examination that day and everyone was busy with go minute studying. Albus had exams in both Herbology and denial Against the iniquity Arts, although the latter was really no different from the common worksheets. Luckily there was no exam in fear of Magical wight and then Albus had a unfreeze period.

Matt slept the entire rid period and up until dinner in promise that he would be able to attend that nighttime 's detention. He had no desire to do detention on his own, so he was hoping that he 'd be able to get away with just missing the next night 's. He still looked absolutely exhausted even after the nap.

"If we 're doing anything outside I 'll have to leave,"matte said as the four boy made their way to Filch 's study."Merlin I hope it 's not outside."

"Me, too,"John said."Ground 's horribly muddy after last nighttime 's storm."

"Bet the team will love that."Albus said They had practice that nighttime and Albus was missing it.

The boys continued their way through the castle until they made it to Filch 's study. Albus knocked three times and then stood back, waiting for the ancient caretaker to give the doorway.

Filch was holding his cat, Josie, in his arms when he appeared in the doorway. He was scowling, the wrinkles on his face showing more than ever, and looked thoroughly disgusted at having to supervise the boys'detainment. He let the cat down on the primer coat and she took a swat at Kaden 's robes before darting behind a nearby cause of armour.

"You lot again,"Filch muttered as he shut the door behind him, despite the fact that the four boys had n't had a roast detention with Filch since 2d twelvemonth."You 're scrubbing the 2nd floor daughter 's john. With toothbrushes, of course."Filch reached into his pocket and pulled out four grubby toothbrushes.

"That 's Moaning Myrtle 's bathroom,"Albus whispered to his acquaintance as they distributed their cleaning implements and followed Filch down the corridor.

Filch shooed them into the bathroom and leaned against the threshold, his limb across his thorax, and scowled at them as they began. Albus squatted down and began to scour the floor, John and Kaden doing the same. The three had agreed to make the detention as easy as possible for mat and thus left him the sink.

Albus had n't been scrubbing for more than two instant when he heard a spattering behind him and a girlish giggle. He turned around and saw Vinca minor, smiling and winking at him. She floated over until she was hovering over the section of floor that Albus was scrubbing.

"Albus Potter."She giggled again."You 're back to my throne. Oh, but this time you 've been in bother, have n't you ?"

"Er, yes,"Albus muttered.

"This is n't for what you did to the Slytherin common room, is it ?"Myrtle asked."Your blood brother asked me about that. I told him that you 'd been in here that night, hiding under your Invisibility Cloak."

Albus flinched when she said the discussion"invisibility cloak"and hoped that Filch had had some earreach loss in his old age. The last affair Albus needed was for the caretaker to know he had an Invisibility Cloak.

"I did n't hump you were pranking the Slytherins, though,"Myrtle continued."I like boys who pull joke, you know."Vinca minor giggled again and floated closer to Albus, so close that his bridge player was now inside her arm. He moved it away.

"You know, some old age I hardly get any male child coming in here,"Myrtle said as she floated towards whoremaster."And this yr there 's so many. I think you should come jaw me more often. It gets lonely in here, you know."

"Yeah, I imagine it 's quite lonely, being dead,"Kaden said.

Vinca minor let out an ear-piercing shrieking and started wailing. She sped past Albus and into one of the carrell, where she plunged herself into the toilet.

"Sensitive type, is n't she ?"Kaden said.

There was another loud splashing and Myrtle was suddenly right in strawman of Kaden."You would be too if you were dead !"she shouted.

"But could n't you leave the loo ?"John asked."The former ghosts float about the castling all the time."

"parting the loo ?"myrtle repeated."Leave the loo ?"She said a bit louder."But this is where I died ! I find it 's best to think about my destruction rightfulness here. Right where it happened."

"Would n't it be less lonely with the early spectre ?"John asked as he began to scrub one of the stall doors.

"The other ghosts do n't understand,"Myrtle lamented."They 're all satisfy being dead. Even the Grey ma'am and she 's always seemed slightly miserable. But no, none of them are as miserable as me."Myrtle seemed proud about that.

"Weird,"John muttered under his breath.

"Quiet !"Filch shouted."You 're in detention. No talking."

Myrtle resumed floating above the boy, letting out a gaudy plaint every so often. Kaden and lusterlessness continued to scrub the floor while King John scrubbed the stalls. matte was still scrubbing the sump, but was going very slowly and winced every so often.

"You look miserable !"Myrtle exclaimed as Matt 's hand slipped and he dropped his toothbrush. He bent down to pick it up and leaned on the sink, squeezing his eyes shut. myrtle floated down to levitate just above the sink next to him and smiled.

matte said nada and turned from myrtle, to get started on the sink on the other slope. Vinca minor followed."You know, I 'm low-down here all the time. I just sit here and mull my end ..."myrtle continued.

Myrtle continued to follow Matt around the bathroom while he was clearly trying to brush off her and put as much distance between them as possible. He had no luck with this since he was exhausted and Myrtle was a ghost. Albus caught bathroom 's eye as Myrtle giggled for the twentieth time and the two shared a unsounded laugh.

After they 'd been scrubbing for nearly two hours Filch finally told them they could stop. Albus 's knees and hands were raw and he had a spirit he smelled strongly of cleanser. Saint John the Apostle and Kaden looked equally miserable and lusterlessness looked as bad as he did the dayspring after a full moon, only without the track and bites. myrtle looked delighted at their misery.

"Visit me again soon !"she shouted after them as they left."Especially you,"she added to Matt with another giggle.

"Someone has a calf love on you,"John said to lusterlessness as soon as they were out of earreach of Filch.

"Shut up,"Matt muttered.

"Matt and Vinca minor, what an endearing couple you 'd stool,"John continued."You should go visit her. She seemed to be happier knowing that you were miserable."

"I said shut up about it !"Matt shouted.

"fine, was only making a antic,"lavatory replied.

The boys walked in quiet the sleep of the way to Gryffindor column. They did not come across anyone else, which Albus was grateful for since he was changeable as to whether it was past times curfew or not. Once back in Gryffindor, matte immediately went to the dormitory without saying another Word to Albus, John, or Kaden.

"hope it 's not houseclean tomorrow,"John muttered as he sat down on the nearest professorship and pulled up his gasp leg."facial expression at that. My knee 's all red."

"Matches my digit,"Kaden added.

Albus would gladly suffer through another day of Muggle cleaning if it meant the rest of the detentions would be called off. He was missing two Quidditch practices and the conclusion dueling practice before the first affaire d'honneur. Some headwaiter he was, missing the last practice before their first tournament. Their terminal drill was Th evening and Albus would be off in detention, doing who knows what. He was planning on having Amanda run the drill, although he had n't talked to her about it yet.

The doorway to the plebeian way opened and the Gryffindor Quidditch squad, minus Albus of grade, trouped in. They all looked muddy, exhausted, and sweaty and Albus felt a sting of guilty conscience as he watched them point up to the dormitory room to shower.

"Missed you, Al,"Fred said as he passed."You 're missing on Midweek, too, are n't you ?"

"Yeah,"Albus muttered."Sorry."

Fred nodded."Just do n't do it right before a match."

That was at to the lowest degree fortunate, Albus thought. They would n't be playing in another Quidditch match until after the holidays, seeing as the following match was Hufflepuff versus Ravenclaw. However, he couldn't help but feel that missing dueling practice right before a tournament was defective than missing Quidditch drill right before a match.
***


Albus 's week did not better the following day, when he began it with double potions. lustrelessness, feeling too ill to brew potions all morning, stayed in the dormitory to sleep, leaving Scorpio Malfoy without a collaborator to brew that day 's Wart Removal Potion. Even high-risk, Albus 's collaborator was also not in class. Slughorn saw this as the perfect opportunity to pair Albus with Malfoy.

Albus set up his cauldron while Malfoy stalked off to the potions cupboard to get the ingredients. He returned a poor while later and began to chop a shrivelfig into perfectly sized firearm. Albus took the rat short temper, dumped it into the cauldron, and began to stir it.

"Word is you and your admirer got a workweek 's detention for that buffoonery,"Malfoy said, not looking up from his shrivelfig.

"Yes. Not that it 's any of your business,"Albus responded.

"Oh, but it is."Malfoy smirked, finally looking up."You did n't by luck get Thursday off from custody, did you ?"

"No,"Albus muttered. He took a few deep breathing time, trying to calm himself down. He was stirring the caldron far too quickly.

"That 's dueling practice,"Malfoy said, as if it had slipped Albus 's mind."Our own captain, missing practice because of custody. I do n't hypothecate you 've found individual else to run exercise, have you ?"

"If you 're angling for the job you 're out of luck,"Albus said as he threw another rat spleen into the cauldron with more force than was necessary."Amanda already said she 'd do it."That was n't necessarily true, as Albus had slept too late that morning to see Amanda at breakfast before they 'd had to go down to the keep.

"Tagger ?"Malfoy scoffed."I think the captain ought to give birth at least some science at dueling."

"Why does it weigh so much ?"Albus asked."It 's one practice session ! It 's not like one practice would make you captain."

"When the prof see what a beneficial job of it I do-"

"One ground, Malfoy,"Albus interrupted."Give me one cause why you should do it over Amanda."

Malfoy 's face broke out in a malicious grin."One reason ? The moonshine 's going to be in an interesting phase angle tonight."

Albus lowered his phonation."You would n't. You ca n't. Kendrick would expel you."

"Only if he knew it was me who spilled the beans,"Malfoy pointed out.

Albus felt the blood drain from his typeface. Why had he never thought of that ? Of grade there were ways Malfoy could let it slip one's mind without anyone knowing it was him."Fine,"Albus muttered."fine. You captain the team on Th. But just that day. I do n't have custody on Saturday afternoon."

"Fair enough,"Malfoy said, clearly satisfied at how matter had turned out.

Albus took a parsnip and began to chop it with as much force as he could muster, imagining Malfoy 's smirking fount upon the veggie 's control surface. Luckily, Malfoy did not say another Logos to Albus throughout the entire form, which gave Albus the restraint not to hex him into adjacent century after they left Slughorn 's room.

The day continued in a downwardly spiral when Patil had them piece of work on transfiguring rats into teacup and Albus 's teacupful ran across his table and crashed onto the base. political relation was no better because Professor Embry had the class discuss the past Saturday 's debate, something Albus just wanted to put behind him. He could n't help but feel as if the entire course of study was staring at him for the whole hour since Embry brought up the subject of his kidnapping and the sacking of professor Balladanis.

Kendrick sent Albus, Matt, Gospel According to John, and Kaden an owl at dinner informing them that their detainment would take billet in glasshouse Two, where Professor Longbottom needed avail transferring his dragon dung fertiliser from a huge tidy sum outside to various pots inside.

"Disgusting !"John exclaimed upon reading the note."I get enough of that in Herbology."

"At least we 're with Longbottom and not Filch,"Albus pointed out."Matt will be missing this one, obviously."

whoremaster nodded."Where is he, by the way ? Have n't seen him all day."

"Probably still in the dormitory room. He was phone asleep when I went up there to grab my Transfiguration book at lunch,"Albus said.

Kaden glanced at his lookout."We 're not even going to stimulate time to go back there before custody. It 's six-thirty."

Albus set his fork down. He had been picking at his beef stew, but not really eating it. He still had n't told his admirer that Malfoy was going to be running his dueling practice later that hebdomad. Add that to the fact that now he would n't get to see Matt before the entire moon and it was just turning out to be an terrible evening.

pink wine seemed to read Albus 's nous."We 'll go stop on him after dinner party,"she said. Amanda nodded.

bathroom and Kaden polished off the relaxation of their meal and then the three boys set off for the greenhouses. The sun was just beginning to set as they walked across the grounds and Albus knew that meant that flatness would be heading to the Hospital annex soon. He hoped Rose and Amanda would manage to see him before he did.

Neville was waiting for them when they arrived, bearing four excavator and four sets of gloves.

"lustrelessness ca n't occur tonight,"Albus said once they reached Neville.

Neville glanced at the sky."Oh, right. I 'd forgotten."He handed the male child the spadeful and baseball glove."All of this,"he gestured to a large piling of manure,"needs to be moved into the good deal in greenhouse Two. You can result once you 're finished."

Albus groaned inwardly as he looked at the mickle. It must have been at least six animal foot high and as big around as the broom shed near the Quidditch sales pitch. It would aim them at least an 60 minutes. He sighed as he pulled on his gloves and began to shovel the manure.

With all three boys working steadily it took them an hour and a half to move all the manure. When they finally finished all Albus wanted to do was go up to Gryffindor pillar and learn the world 's longest shower. He felt unsound than he did after a Quidditch drill in the pouring rain.

"Two down, five to go,"John said after Neville parted shipway with them on the indorse floor."I 'd never thought I 'd say this, but I 'd really like some lines."

"I just wish they 'd strike down Thursday 's,"Albus muttered.

"Oh, right, what are you doing about your dueling practice ?"St. John the Apostle asked.

Albus felt anger boiling up in him again just thinking about it."Malfoy 's pickings over for the practice."

"time lag, seriously ?"John exclaimed."But Amanda 's on your squad. She could have-"

"It 's complicated,"Albus muttered. For some reasonableness he did n't want to get into why Malfoy was going to be chieftain for the Night."And it 's only for a night."

St. John gave Albus a strange look."I guess, but still ... Malfoy ? It 's going to go to his head."

"I know !"Albus exclaimed."I know, all right ? It 's not like I wanted to ingest detention on Th and overlook that recitation. I 'll remind you that this prank was yours and Kaden 's idea. Not mine."

"I know,"John said."But Malfoy ..."his vox trailed off.

Albus spent a good half minute in the exhibitor once he returned to Gryffindor and then collapsed into bed, wishing that he could heat up and find out that the day had been an awful aspiration. Instead, he dreamed that prof Kendrick decided to take away Albus 's captaincy and cave in it to Malfoy.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed ! This will be the only update this month as I am currently working on NaNoWriMo.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Gospel According to John got his wishing the following evening when the male child spent an hour doing lines with Professor Brigham Young, which was slightly pointless since Loretta Young paid absolutely no care to them. After they were released, Albus, John, and Kaden immediately went to the Hospital annex, as they had been unable to chew the fat flatness earlier in the day.

Madam Pomfrey was refilling potion bottles when they arrived a short patch later. The drapery were drawn around Matt 's usual bed while all the other beds remained void.

"Hello, boys,"the nurse greeted them."I 'll let you visit for ten bit, but curfew 's very soon."

Albus nodded and led John and Kaden to Matt 's bed, where he pulled back the curtains and entered the small area. mat was laying in bed with a bandage around his left arm and another on his forehead.

"How are you feeling ?"Albus asked.

"Awful,"Matt replied."But I do n't want to talk about it. What 's new with you lot ?"

"Just did an time of day of contrast,"toilet said."And last night we had to shovel manure for Longbottom. You 're lucky you missed that one. I swear I still smell like dragon dung."

"But now I have to do two custody by myself. Possibly three,"lusterlessness lamented.

"ternary ? You 're not going to get out of here tomorrow ?"Kaden asked. Usually Matt got out of the hospital wing two mean solar day after the entire moon.

"I will, but it just depends on what the detention is. If it 's communication channel then I can go but if it 's cleaning again then I 'll experience to skip it. brothel keeper Pomfrey wants me to repose tomorrow."

"Ca n't mean of what else they 'd experience us do,"John said."guess what else ? Albus is having Malfoy run his dueling squad 's drill tomorrow since he 'll be in detention."

"You 're what ? !"Matt exclaimed."That 's mad, Albus."

Albus sighed."It 's one day. One practice. It 's not like I 'm giving him my team."

"Yeah, but there are other people on your team,"mat pointed out."One of them could have captained it."

"As I told John and Kaden, it 's complicated,"Albus said."And it wo n't happen again."

matte shrugged, but he did n't appear convinced. The last thing Albus wanted to do was severalise him the real reason why Malfoy was going to run the practice. Matt did n't need that on his plate.

"Time 's up !"madam Pomfrey announced as she brought a tray of potions to matt."haste back to Gryffindor. The final stage affair the three of you need is another detention."

As it turned out, there were former things that the professors thought of for the son'custody. Thursday evening they cleaned caldron without magic trick in professor Slughorn 's schoolroom, something that Madam Pomfrey forbade Matt from doing, insisting that he turn in former instead. Albus spent the intact detention thinking about what Malfoy was doing with his dueling squad and counting down the minutes until he would be able to ask Amanda about it.

"He was really nasty,"Amanda said once the male child were back in the mutual room after detention. Amanda had gotten out of dueling practice before they 'd finished hold."A few of the arcsecond years were cursing him afterward. I heard them. Not that I blame them since he all out yelled at them for not being able-bodied to do a Jelly-Legs Jinx."

"What does he expect ?"Albus replied."They 're second twelvemonth !"

"I tried to tell him that, but he did n't care,"Amanda said."He even yelled at a Slytherin."

"Seriously ?"Albus said."Wow."

"I 'm really gladiola Longbottom made you captain and not him,"Amanda continued."I think I 'd quit otherwise."

"I would 've give up if he was on my team, catamenia,"John said.

"He would n't lowest as maitre d' anyway,"Amanda pointed out."prof Cedonia was supervising and she had to recount him to modulate it down about five times and then once one of the indorse years was close to tears, she called an end to the practice."

Albus could n't help but feel a bit of atonement that Malfoy made such a bad maitre d', despite the fact that he did palpate bad for his teammate. He doubted Malfoy would stop insisting that he should sustain been made captain, but Albus doubted anything would stop that.

Saturday brought with it a aloud electric storm that rendered it nearly unsufferable to get a line what anyone was saying in the Great anteroom at breakfast. Albus was quite glad that Fred had not scheduled a Quidditch practice for that day, but hoped that the tempest would calm down by the time the tournament began since his squad would ask to be capable to pick up each other speak.

Malfoy was already seated at Team Seven 's berth at the Hufflepuff board when Albus arrived later that afternoon. He was pleased to see that the quietus of the team was giving him a wide berth, including a few of the unseasoned Slytherins.

"Albus !"one of the second year Hufflepuffs, Alice Jake, shouted when she saw him coming."So glad you 're back."

"Me, too."Albus grinned as he sat down in between her and another Hufflepuff."You lot quick ?"

There was a refrain of"yes 's"and a few nods of heads from Albus 's team. The last few duelist ran into the elbow room and snagged the finale few rump, which were unfortunately next to Malfoy.

Albus glanced at his lookout man. Five minute of arc until the tourney began. He felt like he should form some sorting of voice communication, like all of his Quidditch captains did before match. But what was he supposed to say ?

"Er, well, here we are. The kickoff tournament,"Albus began."You are all splendid duellist, each and every one of you. We 've all been practicing hard and you 've all made nifty improvements. We 're going to do corking, but think, just have fun. But if you remember what you 've learned and duel like you do in pattern, I think we can definitely win this."

The relief of his team ( sans Malfoy ) gave a hearty cheer and then turned to Professor Longbottom, who had just called for aid. Albus 's team immediately quieted down.

"Welcome to the get-go dueling tournament !"Neville announced."It will run as it has in the past tense, with two duel happening simultaneously. Professor Cedonia is coming around with the tournament agenda, which will be given to each captain. Please pay tending and recognise when you are to duel. Everyone will duel twice. professor Cedonia and I will each preside over a dueling rotary and will announce the winners. The first gear somebody to demilitarise their opponent will be given a point. Remember, you are only allowed to use spells you have learned in your socio-economic class. The inaugural duel will begin momentarily."

professor Cedonia handed Albus a piece of parchment and he set it down while his team crowded around him."I think it 'll be easier for me to let you know when you 're to duel. I 'll tell you two duel before you 're scheduled. Alice and tucker, you 're first."

Albus glanced down the list and noticed that he was the tenth duel in Neville 's ringing and the seventeenth in Cedonia 's. That would afford him plenty of time to get used to organizing his team. It was slightly sweep over, having to constantly be paying attention to the tilt and figuring out when everyone should be dueling. After a few duel, he managed to get the hang of it.

"Malfoy,"Albus said."You 're up in two affaire d'honneur, in Cedonia 's ring."

Malfoy nodded, but did n't say anything. He had not said a word the total tourney, which was very uncharacteristic, and the rest of the team seemed to be set on ignoring him.

Albus handed the list to Amanda and headed to Neville 's dueling band, where he was set to duel lavatory. Two Hufflepuffs from early team were currently battling it out and Albus was next. The shorter of the two Hufflepuffs finally managed to disarm his opponent.

"degree to team Four !"Neville shouted as the two Hufflepuffs left."Albus Potter versus John Brickston."

Albus and Saint John gave each other apologetic smiles before bowing and raising their wands, waiting for Neville 's okeh.

"Ready, duel !"Neville shouted.

Albus immediately sent a leg-locker curse at John, who easily deflected it. lavatory sent the Sami at Albus who also avoided it. Albus continued sending turn at lavatory, who kept avoiding them, until he finally got hit with a Jelly-legs Curse and nearly lost his foothold. In the time it took him to execute the counter-curse, Albus was able to hit him with Petrificus Totalus.

"Expelliarmus !"Albus shouted as whoremonger fell over. He caught John Lackland 's wand in his right helping hand and then turned to Neville, who was smiling.

"item to Team Seven !"

Neville performed the counter-curse on lavatory and the two male child left the ring. Albus headed back to his table, where Malfoy was just heading to Cedonia 's dueling mob.

Malfoy dueled a secondment yr and won within two minutes. He was smirking as he walked back to the Hufflepuff table, but he returned to mediocre hand clapping. It seemed that the eternal rest of the team was still bitter about Th 's praxis.

The rest of the tournament went well. Both Albus and Malfoy won their second duel, although Malfoy had a lot more difficulty since he dueled a fellow fourthly class.

"aid, I 'd like to announce the winner !"Neville shouted a unawares while after the terminal affaire d'honneur. The total room immediately quieted and looked up at Neville."Thank you. In third home with 44 stop is team Four !"

cheerfulness erupted from the Ravenclaw tabular array, where squad quatern was currently seated. Once they quieted down, Neville spoke."In secondment blank space with 52 points is Team Seven !"

The eternal sleep of Albus 's team began to squall and embolden, but Albus was too stunned to do much of anything. He could n't believe it ! His first ever tournament as captain and his team had gotten second place ! A few people slapped him on the back and he broke out into a grin.

"And in world-class place, with 55 points is Team Six !"Neville announced.

There were cheerfulness from the other end of the Hufflepuff table, but Albus ignored them. He was still shocked that his own team had done so well.

"Great job, everyone !"he said once he regained his calm."I knew we could do it !"

The table was filled with excitement and yakety-yak and it continued even after they got up and began to leave the room. Albus was anxious to get back to Gryffindor tower where he could keep his near win with his friends.

"Nice going, Potter,"Malfoy gaiter as soon as they left the Great Hall."I bet if I were the captain we would 've won."

"We got second base,"Albus replied."That 's really good."

"start would 've been better,"Malfoy muttered."I 'm amazed we even got second considering how terribly you are at practices."

"wagerer than you,"Albus said."No one liked your practice on Thursday. Did you notice how no one talked to you today ? They hated it."

"They 're just too used to you coddling them,"Malfoy said, taking a step closer to Albus.

"fountainhead it does n't a good deal issue because I 'm the captain and you 're not,"Albus said as he toyed with his sceptre, which he was still brandishing in his left hand.

"For now,"Malfoy replied, eyeing Albus 's verge."If you keep getting in worry I bet they 'll replace you."

"C'mon, Albus."matte had appeared next to Albus."Let 's get back to the uncouth room."

"punter mind to him."Malfoy gave a short jape."You 'd suppose it 'd the other way around, though. Him attacking me rather than you. But I suppose that would only be in a certain metre of-"Malfoy glared knowingly at Matt.

"Shut up ! And take that back,"Albus seethed, raising his wand.

"Seriously, Albus, let 's go !"lustrelessness grabbed the book binding of Albus 's robe and pulled him towards the staircase.

"immorality git,"Albus muttered, looking back at the bunch in the entree Hall. Malfoy was already gone."Why does he always have to bring it up like that ?"

"It does n't weigh,"matte said.

"Of trend it matters !"Albus said indignantly."It 's insult !"

"I 'm used to it,"lustrelessness said quietly.

"So what ?"Albus exclaimed."That does n't think of you should have to pass the rest of Hogwarts having him bring it up every day."

"And you hexing him would have solved everything ?"Matt asked."You just would 've gotten another detention."

"Would 've been worth it,"Albus muttered.

"No, it would n't have,"Matt argued."You 've just got to ignore him. I ignore him."

"I really hope that next year he 's not on my dueling squad,"Albus said.

"I do n't guess he will. Did n't they go back to House teams for dueling for twenty percent through seventh days this year ?"mat asked.

"Did they ?"Albus asked.

"That 's what one of the one-sixth geezerhood said,"Matt answered.

"Good,"Albus said."Then I just have to suffer through this year."

Albus and Matt were the last of their friends to get back to Gryffindor, where it appeared that no one was doing homework. St. James had set a few firework off out the window and everyone was watching them while eating phonograph recording upon platters of biscuit.

"What are you lot celebrating ?"Albus asked James as he took a biscuit.

Henry James shrugged."Just the fact that we 've got a Saturday with nothing to do. Well, Cedric, Ben, Nathan, and I that is."

"Where have you two been ?"Rose asked as she walked up to Albus and matt. John and Kaden were behind her, a biscuit in each hand.

"Al nearly got into a duel with Malfoy in the ingress Hall,"flatness explained.

"Albus !"Amanda exclaimed."You ca n't get anymore hold !"

"I know, but he said something really wretched,"Albus said and turned to St. John."You would 've hexed him."

"What did he say ?"blush wine asked.

"He said that he was surprised I was n't attacking him,"mat said quietly.

"You 're right,"John growled."I would 've hexed him."

"See ?"Albus said.

"And I told you that it was n't worth detention over,"Matt repeated.

"But if it continues,"Rose said,"you 've got to tell Kendrick."

"I 'm not telling Kendrick,"flatness insisted."I think he 's got enough to worry about with the possibility of the stallion school getting changed if Laurentis wins this election."
***


"Why in the public figure of Falco columbarius are we doing detainment in the forest ?"Kaden asked at breakfast the follow morning.

"Seriously,"John the Divine agreed."That 's not really detention, is it ? The timberland is cool. I 've always wanted to go in there."

"Are you two insane ?"Amanda asked."There 's all kind of creatures in there."

"My baby did hold in the forest once,"Matt said."She had to harvest these plants Slughorn needed and they could only be harvested the Night of the good moon."

"Well that 's one hold you 'll never have to do."John laughed.

"Maybe we have to harvest some other kind of flora ?"Matt suggested, ignoring lav 's scuttlebutt.

"Dunno."Albus shrugged. The letter they 'd received had not gone into specifics. It just stated that they were to meet Hagrid near his hut at three that afternoon.

"At least you 're not going at night,"pink wine pointed out.

The few 60 minutes Albus and his friend had until hold went by rather quickly. They spent the 60 minutes in the commons room alternating doing homework while participating in very prominent unit of ammunition of Exploding crack with nearly all of Albus and Rose 's cousin-german. Everyone was covered in ash by the time three o'clock rolled around and the boys had to run up to their hall to wash their faces before heading down to Hagrid 's hut.

Albus liked Hagrid. He had known the half-giant since he was little and was slightly confused as to how custody with Hagrid could possibly be considered custody. Perhaps Professor Kendrick was unaware that Albus and his friend visited Hagrid every so often and enjoyed spending time with him.

Hagrid was already outside when Albus and the other three male child arrived, armed with his crossbow and fang by his face. Albus swallowed tough upon seeing the crossbow. Did Hagrid really think they would necessitate that ?

"'Ello, boys !"Hagrid greeted them."Fairly simple detention today. We 'll be collectin'unicorn quarter hairs."

"Like getting them from unicorns ?"Kaden asked."I thought they did n't wish boys."

Hagrid gave a flourishing laughter."No, no, Kaden. It 'd be a crime to take 'em right from the unicorn, wouldn'it. No, we 'll be gettin''em from bushes and tree diagram. As the unicorns run past they get snagged. Let 's get goin'."

Fang let out a loud bark as they made their way to the forest. Collecting unicorn hair. That was n't bad at all. But still, it was the forest and that was where Washburn and Willinson had spent a lot of their fourth dimension the premature year. They would n't be back there, would they ? Obviously Washburn and Quinton Willinson were in Azkaban, but what about Quinton 's father ? Where was he ?

"What do we need unicorn hairs for ?"John asked as they entered the timber."No one here makes wands."

"Used for a lot more'n wands, aren'they,"Hagrid answered."Potions, mostly. Tha 's what we need 'em for. Seventh eld are brewing somethin'that needs unicorn whisker so Professor Kendrick volunteered you four to roll up 'em. Slughorn 's too old to do it himself."

"That 's for sure,"John muttered to Albus.

It was very gloomy in the timber, despite the fact that it was day. All four boys lit their wand and Hagrid 's garden pink umbrella was providing more light than two wands combined. Hagrid had told them that they would n't get hold any hairsbreadth until they were at to the lowest degree 15 arcminute into the wood since unicorns rarely ventured near the edge.

The timber was very dense and it was unmanageable for them to take the air next to each other. Soon, they were forced to walk single file through a very minor way of life that was riddled with tree branches and rock'n'roll. Albus stumbled every so often and Matt managed to fall over three times before anyone found any unicorn bum hair. Galloping hooves could be heard in the aloofness and Albus figured they were centaurs. His dad had told him that there was a herd of centaurs in the forest, although Albus had never seen one before.

"Here we are,"Hagrid said after what had been at least a twenty minute walk. He gestured to a nearby bush."Jus'have a look around here and I 'm sure we 'll retrieve plenitude. This is a known domain where unicorns live. Don'wander too far."

Hagrid had provided them all with buckets in which to collect the hair. Albus set off for the cheeseparing bush and found a few hairs snagged in the branches.

"endure hold,"John said as he worked alongside Albus."Thank Merlin."

"Speak for yourself,"Matt called out from a tree a few meters away.

"Do you know what you have to do for your following ones ?"Albus asked.

"Lines, all three Nox,"Matt said."Easier, I suppose, than coming up with anything else when it 's just me."

"Better than cleaning toilet again. Or digging up Draco dung,"Kaden said."Whoa, I just found a totally clod of hair."

After they 'd been working for a half hour Hagrid decided that they 'd collected enough. They set off re-tracing their steps through the wood. Albus found it a lilliputian less scary on the walk back and he was n't sure whether it was because he had gotten used to the noises or because he could see the sun at the edge. He was very relieved to find that he did not see Jarrett Willinson anywhere in the forest, although now that the detention was passed he realized that Willinson would n't go back there now that the Resurrection Oliver Stone was no longer there. No, Willinson was most likely still in Commonwealth of Australia, where no one was looking for him. At least, Albus hoped he was.


Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed ! You Guy are awesome ! Sorry for the lack of updates lately. NaNo gave way to a frenetic coating of all the papers I 'd neglected during November. But I won NaNo and year are over so I 'm hoping to get a good bit of writing done within the next month.


The last few weeks of November provided the Hogwarts students and staff with a much needed menstruation of calm. The next election debate would not demand lieu until December and the the censoring at Hogwarts issue seemed to have died out, with the Daily prophesier no longer publishing articles on it. Both Quidditch and dueling tournament were over for the terminal figure, leaving the educatee with a bit more time to devote to their studies. The next Hogsmeade visit was scheduled for the second Sabbatum in December, a hebdomad before term ended.

Albus enjoyed the monotony of those few weeks. His days were filled with homework, Quidditch practice, and dueling practice. team septenary was very well-chosen to have Albus back as their captain and most continued to ignore Malfoy during practice. Malfoy still reserved a special glare of hatred for Albus and his Friend, but he did not attempt to start anymore duel in the corridor, like he had after the dueling tourney.

December arrived with a snow storm that caused the Ravenclaw Quidditch squad to cancel two of their practices. This gave Fred the opportunity to book the pitch for two superfluous practices, something that earned him a healthy dose of U-No-Poo in his dawn pumpkin juice courtesy of Saint James and Bradley. Albus was glad to see that the job of school practical joker had been rightfully returned to James and his friends. The week of detainment had certainly dissuaded Albus from planning anymore caper. The same could not be said for John the Divine and Kaden, who were plotting something, although Albus did not know what.

Albus, lusterlessness, and Amanda spent the commencement Sabbatum of December ignoring their homework in the predator 's Den. The Slytherin team had the sales talk for the entire day, which gave Albus a much needed rift from Quidditch. John and Kaden 's location would probably only be found with the marauder 's Map and blush wine was tutoring in the subroutine library.

There was a loud squawk from outside the way, which was pink wine 's signal that she was outside and wished to be let in. Albus got up from his plot of Gobstones and let her in. She dropped her bag unceremoniously on the floor and flopped down on the couch.

"I 'm upset about Elsie,"Rose said.

"Elsie ..."Albus prompted.

"Elsie Willinson !"she exclaimed."The first base year I 've been tutoring all year."

"Oh yeah, the one with the moron for a pal and a cousin and uncle who want to bring back Voldemort. Yeah, I 'd be worried, too,"Albus said as he returned to his game.

"No, I 'm not worried about her pudden-head brother. I 'm worried about her."

"What, is she still failing all her subjects ?"Matt asked.

"No, she 's actually doing much beneficial,"rosebush said."She 's just very quiet. She never talk about anything former than homework-"

"Sounds like you."Albus turned around and grinned at his cousin."Although you 're not quiet."

"I 'm serious, Albus,"Rose said flatly."Her Brother walks her to the library for our sessions and then picks her up when we 're done. I never see her with anyone early than him and occasionally Malfoy. I 've never seen her eat with anyone former than them, either."

"That is form of strange,"Amanda said.

"See ?"Rose said."Amanda thinks it 's weird."

"So she 's shy."Albus shrugged."I just do n't see what it 's got to do with you."

"It does n't really,"rose said quietly."But if she 's having military issue. We all know about her family. If her brother 's keeping an eye on her there must be a reason."

Albus had n't thought about it that way. What if Felix Willinson was trying to keep an eye on his sister ?"If she 's doing something her menage does n't wish I bet she 's going against something they want."

"That 's what I thought,"Rose agreed."Which means she 's trying to do something good. Or he 's trying to make for certain she does n't splatter family secrets."

"You think they have More family secrets than just wanting Voldemort back ?"matt asked.

"Of course they do,"rosebush said."We only found out last year that they were related by union to Lubar. I mean, you never would 've guessed that in first or second year."

Matt shuddered."Probably a good thing that I did n't. I probably would have refused to come to Hogwarts."

"Most pure-blooded kinfolk like them have dark secrets,"Albus said as he fiddled with a Gobstone. It squirted him in the cheek and he rubbed the liquid on his robes."The ones that want the ancestry to remain pure and glut. Like the Malfoys."

"And I 'd bet my in conclusion Galleon that Elsie Willinson found out one of those secrets and wants to tell person,"Rose stated.

"You think it 's got to do with what they 're trying to do ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm sure it does."

"The just problem for them is that Jarrett 's on his own now,"Amanda said."With the other two in jail, what 's he going to do ?"

"You 're forgetting about Lubar,"flatness said darkly.

rosebush got up and started walking around the room."To be honest, I do n't know how lots he 's going to be involved, especially if this going to take home in Britain. Think about it, utmost year he had the excuse of the tournament to be here. He 's got no apology this yr. He 's a Ministry functionary. A horrid one, but still a Ministry official. It 's not in his best interest group to be trying to add back Voldemort."

"That did n't even work,"Albus cut in."They ca n't bring in him back, even a ghost of him, with the Resurrection Stone."

"Jarret Willinson was a Ministry official,"flatness pointed out.

"He was a repository for the Obliviator spot. That 's a little unlike from a Head position,"rose wine explained."Lubar has more to lose."

"I say we try and figure out what Elsie 's keeping hidden and I bet it 'll have something to do with what Willinson is planning now. Because I guarantee he 's planning something,"Albus decided.

"How are we going to do that ?"Amanda asked."She 's always with Felix."

"Not when rosebush is tutoring her."Albus turned to blush wine."You think you could try and get her to open up ?"

"Well she 's not going to just come out and tell me. I can try, but it 'll shoot a spell,"Rose said.
***


Albus told John and Kaden about the conversation about Elsie later that night. John the Evangelist proclaimed that he knew something had been eldritch about that girl from the moment they had seen her at the source of the year. Both son agreed that they needed to find out what it was she was keeping clandestine. Albus then asked them what prank they were planning, but John Lackland and Kaden mysteriously went quiet as soon as Albus brought the topic up.

Albus laid awake that night for a long time thinking about Elsie Willinson. He could not shake the image of her with Felix and Malfoy in the beginning of the year from his head. She had looked so timid and destitute, far too innocent and young to be involved with anything like what her syndicate was involved with. In fact, she reminded him a bit of Lily, although he was n't sure why since Lily was anything but timid.

Morning arrived shortly after Albus had fallen asleep and despite the fact that he 'd only gotten a few hours sleep, he got up around six and decided to get a bit of reading done in the common room. He knew he would n't be able to fall back numb.

Upon arriving in the common room, Albus thought he was still dreaming. He rubbed his eyes and pinched himself to try and heat up, but it was no use. He was in fact awake. The image before his centre was tangible, and it was atrocious to seem at.

The Gryffindor common way was no longer red and gold. It was now decked out in William Green and silver. The comfy couch and chair were gone and had been replaced instead with measure classroom chairs. Various standard were hung up in the room that depicted snakes. In fact, the Gryffindor common room now looked exactly as Albus imagined the Slytherin usual room to depend, except for it not being under the lake.

However, the sheer Slytherin-ness of the common room was not the unearthly variety, by a long jibe. The strange new addition to the Gryffindor green room was a grey and Edward Douglas White Jr. goat. It was standing in the middle of the elbow room, its head down and buried in a Holy Scripture. The thing about stooge, though, was that they did not enjoy books the way people did. Goats ate books. This goat was currently munching on The banner Book of patch : Grade Two. Albus 's eyes drifted from the goat and around the elbow room again, where he now noticed remnants of other Quran, quills, homework, and even a cloak.

The goat looked up and stared at Albus. It let out a bleat and then went back to the book. Albus crept a little closer and noticed that a mansion was affixed to the goat. It said 'The Gryffindor butt : Gryffindor 's new mascot. Gifted by the Slytherins. Next clip, think twice about putting chicken in our common room .'

Albus stood in the eye of the room, his stare alternating from the goat to the short letter and back again. A Goat ? That did n't even bring in any sense. Not only that, they were clearly trying to copy can and Kaden 's prank. And changing the room into a Slytherin room ? It was horrifying, absolutely horrifying.

Albus tore his middle away from the goat and ran back up the volute staircase until he got to his own dormitory. He flicked on the spark and Ethan, the unaccented sleeper of the bunch, rolled over and groaned.

"Everyone get up !"Albus shouted."Up, get up !"

"What ?"Ethan asked shortly."It 's like six in the forenoon !"

"I know it 's six in the morning !"Albus replied."Get up and go down to the common room. Now."

Ethan slowly got out of bed and went over to Bilius 's bed to get him up. Albus woke John up and then the two of them woke flatness up while Bilius and Ethan went down to the common elbow room. Their vociferation of wrath could be heard all the way in the dormitory.

"What is it ?"John asked as he and Matt followed Albus back down the stairs.

"The Slytherins have had their retaliation,"Albus said, handing John the bank bill.

Albus took a detour to the third year 's dormitory to get Kaden up. Kaden 's roommates got up as well and soon there was a great crowd in the common elbow room. By the time Albus entered the room again, the first base, second, and one-sixth years were all there. The seventh and fifth years were right behind him.

The common room was in bedlam. William James, Cedric, and Nathan were inspecting the stooge. The prefects were all congregated in one spot, clearly trying to figure out what to do. A quarter of the students were standing frozen, with looks of repulsion on their faces. Another quartern were laughing, despite the fact that the joke had happened in Gryffindor. Hugo was wrestling the goat for the copy of the banner Book of Spells : form Two, which evidently was his.

The young woman'dormitory door opened and all the Gryffindor girls flooded out of it. Rose and Amanda made their way over to Albus and the relaxation of the boys, who were receiving legion stares and glower from their fellow students. Clearly a few of them were blaming Albus and his friends for the Slytherins'need for revenge.

"What in the name of Merlin happened ?"rose wine asked.

can handed her the banknote."The Slytherins have had their revenge."

"Malfoy ?"Amanda asked.

"No way to know, is there ?"Albus replied.

"It 's got to be, though,"John the Divine said."No one else hates us like he does."

"I bet a lot of Slytherins wanted revenge,"rose said.

"All right, still everyone !"Albus 's first cousin, gull, shouted over the crowd. He was one of the sixth twelvemonth Prefects."You 're all to get back up to your dormitories. I 'm going to convey prof Longbottom. Who 's the one who first saw this ?"

"I did,"Albus announced.

scrape sighed, as if thinking he should have known."Al, stay down here. The rest of you, back upstairs.

rosiness handed Albus the bill back and she and the rest of Albus 's acquaintance turned to go back to their dormitories. There was a general muttering and whispers as everyone left. Soon, the common room was empty except for Albus, the goat, and the six Prefects. fool left in edict to go get prof Longbottom.

The Prefects whispered amongst themselves while Mark was gone. Albus stood off to the English, as he did not have a go at it the Prefects very well. He recognized a few as friends of his first cousin.

mug returned ten minutes later with prof Longbottom in tow. The herbology professor froze in mid-step when he entered the way. His regard shifted from the new furniture to the goat to the streamer and back to the Capricorn the Goat.

"Albus discovered it,"Mark said.

Longbottom turned to Albus."And it looked like this when you found it ?"

"Mostly,"Albus answered."The goat had been chewing on one of Hugo 's Word so he took that. And someone 's cloak had been here, but it was a Gryffindor cloak."

Longbottom sighed."All right, Albus, you can go back up to your dormitory."He turned to the Prefects."Let 's go through all this and see if we can find any clues to cipher out who it was."

Albus reluctantly went back up to his dorm room, where he found not only all of his roomie but Kaden as well, discussing the trick. They all turned to Albus when he entered.

"uncovering anything out ?"John the Divine asked.

"Nope,"Albus answered."The Prefects are helping Professor Longbottom go through everything for clues."

The boy whiled away the clock time until breakfast by trading Chocolate anuran identity card, playing cycle of Exploding Snap, and discussing the Quidditch season. mat fell back asleep after defending the carom to everyone else, but no one else was able to go back to bed.

Deutsche Mark knocked on their door a few 60 minutes later and told them they were barren to get up and go to breakfast. Albus woke Matt up and the boy went back down to the common room. It looked normal once more. All remnants of the Slytherins were gone and the laughingstock was nowhere in sight. The classroom chairs had disappeared and the regular comfy couch were back. Albus was relieved to see their unwashed room back to its common state, although that did nothing to satisfy his curiosity about who had done it.

"admiration what they did with the goat,"Kaden said as they walked down tot he Great Hall.

"Probably gave it to Aberforth,"matte said.

"Aberforth ?"Kaden asked.

"Dumbledore 's comrade. He owns the Hog 's Head in Hogsmeade. Keeps goats in his pub. Wyrd bloke,"matt answered.

"He keeps Capricorn ? In his pub ?"Kaden repeated."Do they just wander around ?"

"Yeah,"matt said.

The Great student residence was populated only by Gryffindor students, which did not surprise Albus in the slightest given the too soon time of day and the fact that it was Sunday. The professors were all up having breakfast and were whispering amongst themselves. No doubtfulness that Longbottom had told them about the prank. Slughorn in particular looked unnerved.

pink wine convinced the rest period of the group that it would be a good estimation to head to the library after breakfast to take advantage of the fact that it would be abandon. Albus had a few essays that he 'd neglected and John and Kaden needed to make up some new forecasting for Trelawney.

After a few hours of studying Albus felt his attention start to wander. The depository library had filled up since they had arrived and ma'am Pince was watching over the place like a mortarboard. The threshold opened and Albus was surprised to see Elsie Willinson walk in, followed by her brother and Scorpius. Scorpius 's eyes met Albus 's and he veered from his trivial chemical group in order to waltz over to Albus.

"How 's your usual room ?"he asked with a smirk.

"Is that a confession ?"Albus replied as he stood up.

"Of trend not. It 's all over the school. Everyone knows that your unwashed room looked like an extension of mine this morning. And that goat, I heard it ate a few rule book. Serves you right after what you lot did to ours,"Malfoy said.

"We know you did it, Malfoy,"John said."Just waiting for the professors to demonstrate it."

"If I did do it, and I 'm not saying I did, I would n't have left any evidence like you idiots obviously did."

"We did n't,"toilet said flatly."Albus confessed to save his cousin and brother who had been wrongly accused."

"How noble."Malfoy laughed.

"Just severalize me one thing,"Albus said."How did you get into the common room ?"That was what had been bothering Albus the most. He and his supporter had used the Invisibility Cloak to figure out the Slytherin word, but how had Malfoy done it ? As far as he knew he did not stimulate an Invisibility Cloak.

"I did n't,"Malfoy said."And if I did I would n't tell you how I did it."With one to a greater extent glare at Albus, the Slytherin walked away towards the table that Felix and Elsie had found.

"How did he get into our plebeian way ?"Albus asked as he sat back down.

"No melodic theme,"mat said.

"I 'm betting he threatened a beginning year into telling him what it was,"John Lackland said."Would n't put it past him."

"You do n't eff it was him,"Amanda pointed out.

"They 're never going to find out who it was, either,"blush wine said."Not unless they confess like you did. Otherwise no one would 've found out it was you."

"dead reckoning it does n't really matter at this point."Albus sighed."They 've had their revenge."

"Which means it 's time for ours,"Kaden said as he grinned at John.

rosebush groaned."Really ? It 's just going to wrick into a vast clowning war if you have revenge."

"That 's the full stop,"John replied.

If John and Kaden were trying to set about a prank war Albus did n't need any office of it. He had had enough detentions for a lifetime and did not desire spending anymore of his Hogwarts career scrubbing toilet or doing personal line of credit. Albus sighed and returned to his reading. John and Kaden got up and left the library, presumably to work on on their next antic.

Later that day at dinner Professor Kendrick gave a very relentless lecture to the intact school about breaking ruler, especially the rules about not entering common suite that were not yours. It was very interchangeable to the lecturing he gave after the poulet japery, except this metre Albus could recount that the headmaster was even more than wild. Albus kept glancing at Malfoy during the oral communication but the Slytherin boy did not look guilty at all. In fact he seemed disinterested in Kendrick 's speech.

The talk of Gryffindor 's Goat ( as the prank had now been dubbed ) died down by the middle of the week. Most of the castle was excited about the upcoming Hogsmeade trip and then the wintertime holiday. prof Longbottom sent around a sign-up rag for those student who wished to stay home during the vacation, although none of Albus 's friends signed it.

"I 've always wondered what it would be like to stay,"John said as prof Longbottom passed by.

"Me too,"Albus agreed."But my parents already said I ca n't this year since there 's some big Ministry Christmas party we 've got to go to. For the election and all."

"Same here,"Matt said."We 're not even going to Australia because of it."

"Wow, that 's the instant year in a row,"Albus replied.

Matt nodded."My grandparents are coming here and then we 're visiting them over the summer."

"I think we should all stick around next class,"Kaden said."Then I can go a whole school year without seeing my grandparents. Or Aunt Marge."

Albus agreed that that was a upright reason to stay at Hogwarts over the vacation."Yeah, that would be fun. My dad says the castling 's enceinte at Christmas."

"It would be interest to see what Yule is like,"Amanda said. Amanda 's kinfolk was Judaic and celebrated Channukkah.

"You 're welcome to arrive to our grandparents'household for Yule this year,"pink wine suggested.

Amanda grinned."I 'll ask my parents. I 'm sure they 'll say yes since Hanukkah was early this year and I 've already missed it anyway."

"Rose, you 've got billet,"Albus said, gesturing to blush wine 's family 's owl, which had just landed on the table.

"Oh, good !"rose said as she ripped give the letter. She scanned it for a moment before smiling widely."I wo n't be going to Hogsmeade with you."

"You wo n't be ?"Albus gave her a questioning look.

"No. Mum and Dad are taking me to the public debate that 's that day. I owled them a few twenty-four hour period ago to see if I could go and they said yes !"

"You want to go to another one ?"lavatory asked.

"I 'd go to all of them if I could. They 're just so fascinating."She scanned the letter again."I 'm supposed to to to Kendrick 's study at ten on Sabbatum to floo home."

"What 's this one on ?"Albus asked.

"Law enforcement. The Auror department. How it 's run and and how trials are run. I think it 's going to be the most interesting one since both Uncle Sir Henry Percy and Laurentis have already hinted at their views on that topic."

That was for indisputable. This debate would probably be even more explosive than the one on education."You 'll have to let us cognize all the details,"Albus said.

"Oh I will,"Rose replied."It 's why I wanted to go. I 'd rather not learn everything moment mitt from the Prophet."

She had a point there, Albus thought. Although he was sword lily that Rose was the one going and not him. As a good deal as he thought the election was interesting, he 'd rather be in Hogsmeade with his acquaintance than sitting in a courtroom listening to politicians all day.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this so far ! I 'm almost done with school day ( forever ! ) so I 'm hoping to update to a greater extent often.


The calendar week leading up to the Hogsmeade trip dragged by very slowly. Albus was sealed that Wednesday in finicky was at least twice as long as a normal day and by the time Friday finally decided to throw an appearance Albus was sure he would go insane from all the homework he had to complete. Tuesday had been the wax moonlight, but luckily Matt left the hospital wing Thursday afternoon and had been cleared by gentlewoman Pomfrey to go to Hogsmeade.

When Saturday arrived there was a receive break in the blizzard that had blanketed the Hogwarts basis in two metrical foot of C. P. Snow. Albus and his protagonist slept recently and by the time they woke up Rose had already left to go to that day 's debate. Albus, Matt, and lavatory quickly dressed and met Kaden and Amanda in the common room.

Fred accosted Albus as he was about to leave."Albus ! gladiolus I found you. I booked the pitch for today at three since there 's a break in the storm."

"But Fred, it 's Hogsmeade today,"Albus pointed out. As much as he loved Quidditch, Hogsmeade trips were rare occasions and he had Christmas shopping to do.

"Exactly !"Fred exclaimed."So none of the other squad have booked the sales talk. It 's booked strong the rest of the calendar week and we need another practice in before break starts."

Albus sighed. Fred was right, of grade. He glanced at his lookout. It was noon, so if they hurried through lunch he would still get a upright two hours in the village."All right field. I 'll see you at three."

"Excellent,"Fred said."Just induce to find Jesse James ...."

Amanda snorted and started laughing. Fred, who had turned to leave, stopped and looked back at her."What ?"

Albus, trick, matt, and Kaden also looked questioningly at Amanda.

"Oh, I guess I forgot to tell you,"Amanda began."Rose and I were in the library utmost week and overheard Jesse James asking some Hufflepuff fifth year out. They 're going to Hogsmeade together today."

Fred burst out laughing."postponement, James has a escort ?"

"James asked a girl out in the subroutine library ?"Albus joined Fred in his laughter.

"Do n't tell him that rosebush and I overheard him,"Amanda said."He 'd murder us if he knew it was us who told."

"Bet he 's already in Hogsmeade, then,"Fred said, still laughing."They better not be in Madam Puddifoot 's because I do n't fancy going in there to severalise him about practice."

Albus was still laughing about the idea of William James asking a girl out in the library of all places. He wondered who the Hufflepuff was. Maybe he 'd manage to catch a glimpse of them in Hogsmeade together.

"He 's not actually going to get out her to go to Quidditch practice,"Amanda shouted after Fred as he left the common room.

"He will if the date 's going poorly,"Fred shouted back and disappeared into the corridor.

"wellspring let 's hurry up and get to Hogsmeade,"Albus said."I want to see if I can figure out who this young lady is."

Albus hurried out of the common room followed by his friends. They ate a very rushed lunch in the Great Hall and then ran outside and down the path to Hogsmeade. As they neared the village Albus kept his eyes peeled for his brother.

"Where to first ?"lusterlessness asked.

"Weasleys',"John and Kaden said together.

Albus and Matt shared a glimpse. They should have known. They followed St. John the Apostle and Kaden as the two mischievous male child led the way to Weasleys'maven Wheezes.

The shop class was packed to capacity as it always was on Hogsmeade weekends. Albus waved to his Uncle Saint George who was behind the heel counter ringing the great unwashed up as fast as the money box would let him. Teddy was working that weekend and was restocking a shelf of Skiving Snackboxes. John and Kaden each grabbed two as the boys passed.

Albus grabbed a few extendable Ears as his seemed to get disappeared and a box of Deluxe whizbang for James for Christmas. He joined the hanker queue at the till and was joined by can and Kaden who each had weapon system overflowing with intersection. flatness and Amanda were n't buying anything and were playing with a few pigmy Puffs that were in a coop in the social movement of the shop.

"Neither of you have seen St. James, have you ?"Albus asked.

"Nope,"John said."Bet they 're at the Three Broomsticks."

"Or that place that Fred mentioned. brothel keeper whatever ?"Kaden put in.

"Madam Puddifoot 's,"Albus said."Horrifying shoes. Covered in frilled things, and tap stuff."

"Let 's not go there,"Kaden said.

Albus and John both agreed. They would face for Jesse James, just not at Madam Puddifoot 's. The queue moved relatively quickly and soon Albus, John, and Kaden had their supply.

The succeeding stop was Honeyduke 's where everyone stocked up on candy and Albus bought a Christmas Day present for Lily. Then they made their way to the Quaffle store and then the Three Broomsticks. Albus had yet to see James II, but his time was quickly running out. He had a half hour before he had to steer back to the castling for Quidditch practice.

John the Divine went to the bar to get five Butterbeers while the rest period of the group found a table. Luckily Scorpius Malfoy was nowhere in slew. Albus gazed around the bar until he spotted his brother 's familiar red haircloth. Unfortunately the girl he was with was facing away from Albus 's table so all he knew was that she had very long, very flat brown hair.

"There they are,"Albus whispered to matte, Kaden, and Amanda."Any of you know who the missy is ?"

"That 's Gabby Ellis,"St. John said as he returned with the Butterbeers."My cousin-german knows her. She 's one of the fifth year prefects."

"delay, so James not only asked her out in the library, but she 's also a prefect ?"Albus exclaimed.

"shot so."john shrugged."I 'll never ask out a prefect. Now he 's going to have to watch his step."

"You realize that there 's a good hazard one of us might be a prefect side by side year,"Amanda pointed out.

"Nah, they 'll pick Bilius or Ethan,"Gospel According to John said."They 'd never blame me, Al, or Matt after that prank."

"fountainhead Rose is obviously going to be a prefect,"Amanda said.

"We 'll just have to sneak around more future year,"John said."Ca n't take a prefect knowing about our pranks."

"Dervish and Banges is still unoccupied,"Matt said, changing the subject."Do n't you think that 's kind of odd ?"

Albus had n't really thought about it."Yeah, but no one 's going to want to buy a workshop where someone was murdered."

"Still, it 's just strange,"Matt said as he sipped his Butterbeer.

"Someone might still own it,"Amanda pointed out."They might not need to do anything with it or sell it."

"Guess that 's a good point,"Matt said.

"Look, King James I and the young woman are getting up,"Kaden said.

Albus turned and saw that James was indeed rising from his chair. Gabby did as well and the two of them walked slope by side out of the pub. Gabby was pretty, Albus had to include. Her eyes were shiny and her cheek were rap. James IV was grinning. Neither of them noticed Albus or the others on their way out the door.

"Think he 'll show to Quidditch practice ?"St. John asked.

"If he values his life,"Albus replied."Speaking of that, I should probably get going."

Albus said goodbye to his booster and headed back out into the cold. The sun was out and there was no wind, but it was still bitingly cold-blooded. He trudged his way through the blow and stake up to the palace, where he ran up to Gryffindor tower to drop off his purchases and alteration into his Quidditch robes.

The rest of the team was already on the pitch when Albus arrived. Fred was arguing with James about something while the relaxation of the squad stood off to the side.

"She 's not even on their team !"James River shouted."She 's not going to steal any of our plays."

"But she 's still a Hufflepuff and this is a closed practice !"Fred argued.

Albus glanced over to the base and saw Gabby sitting there, wrapped in a very large Hufflepuff cover. She smiled and waved at Albus, who gave a fragile wave back.

"I could n't just leave her. I promised we 'd spend the day together."

"And she wants to watch you take on Quidditch ?"Fred asked."fine, fine. She can stay. Let 's just get going. We 're wasting time."

Fred and James joined the rest of the group."All rightfulness !"Fred shouted."Let 's fly around the pitch a few times to get warm up up."

Albus mounted his broom and soared into the air. He joined the residuum of the team in their flight of steps around the sales talk and lost himself in flying. It was overnice to just fly and draw a blank about everything else that was on his judgment.

The practice session went incredibly well. It was their honorable praxis in weeks since the weather condition was cooperating. The Gryffindor team did not have any egress with playing, but the weather was usually abominable whenever they practiced. Fred insisted this was a good thing since it would help them take how to trifle in match with bad precondition but no one else agreed. Albus was very felicitous to consume a practice where the term were nonesuch. It made Quidditch so much more than enjoyable.

Henry James and Gabby hurried off as soon as practice ended and the rest of the squad walked back to the castling together. They were nearly back to Gryffindor pillar when Rose, Matt, whoremaster, Kaden, and Amanda came running towards Albus, all five looking slightly terrified.

"What 's wrong ?"Fred asked.

"It 's nothing,"Rose said."We just need to babble to Albus."

"Meet us in the way after you stash your broom,"flatness whispered and the five of them hurried off.

Albus hurried into the common way and up to his dormitory. He had absolutely no approximation what was going on, but it must have just had to do with his friends because everyone else in the common room was acting normally. Albus quickly put his broom away and ran back out to the corridor.

It did n't take him long to accomplish the piranha 's Den. All his friends were sitting quietly and looked up at him when he entered.

"What in the name of Falco columbarius is going on ?"Albus asked.

"Two matter,"Rose began."One, the debate. It was ... well ... insane is the only word to line it, really. And two, I 'll let everyone else explain that first."

"Malfoy was lurking near the shrieking hut,"flatness said."After you went to Quidditch practice we walked around the settlement and noticed him. It looked like he was trying to get in."

"Did he ?"Albus asked.

"No, he ca n't,"lusterlessness said."There 's wards. It 's just odd. He was alone."

"Energy he know that that 's where you go ?"Albus replied as he sat down next to Rose.

lusterlessness shook his head."I 'm not really worried about it, either. It 's just very weird."

"Malfoy is Quaker with Felix Willinson so anything Wyrd that he does want to be remembered,"Albus said darkly.

"That 's what I said,"John replied.

"He 's not the first one to be curious about the screaming Shack,"lustrelessness pointed out.

This was different, Albus thought. He would have expected lusterlessness to be the one worried about this, not John.

"But he 's Malfoy ! It 's not good that he 's trying to get in,"John said.

"well he ca n't get in. And he already knows what I am,"lustrelessness countered."Let 's just block about it for now. What rose has to say is far worse."

Albus turned to look at rosiness, who looked upset and slightly scared. That was strange in itself since Albus could hardly remember a time when Rose was scared.

"The debate was on law enforcement,"rose wine said quietly."She wants to completely switch the section of Magical Law Enforcement. She wants to inquire every unity Auror and reorganize the section because she does n't think matter are working as they are. She ... well ... she basically called your dad incompetent."

Albus stared at his cousin-german. He could not think what he was hearing. Albus 's dad had been in accusation of the Auror department for old age and there had never been any complaints. How could Laurentis just diss him like that ?

"Which means she 's going to misplace,"John said confidently."No one 's going to vote for someone who insults Harry Potter."

"No,"rose wine whispered."They will. There 's been editorials in the vaticinator for hebdomad about how the electric current Ministry is n't working. She has support."

"That 's insane,"Albus said."What did Uncle Percy do ?"

"Argued with her,"rosebush said."Talked about all the good your dad has done, but she argued redress back."

"What about everyone there ? Did they clap for her ?"Albus asked.

"Everyone clapped for everyone. They were all polite about it and there was no way to tell who supported who,"rosiness said."If you ask me, I think she 's going to exchange all the question of department who do n't accord with her. She 's going to need people in power who are on her side."

"Which means my dad will be gone,"Albus said."Everyone knows he supports Uncle Harry Hotspur. It 's obvious."

"So that leaves what, matt 's dad 's job, Head of Magical Law Enforcement, capitulum of Magical Transportation, and what else ?"John asked as he counted on his fingers."There 's got to be more."

"There are,"Rose said as she stood up and began pacing around the room."International Magical Cooperation, Magical fortuity and tragedy, Magical Games and Sports, and then the Department of Mysteries."

"Do you know anything about the psyche of those section ?"John asked.

"The lady who 's Head of Magical Law Enforcement was here during the debate. She 's really old and Dad says Mum is a shoe-in for her job when she retires,"blush wine said."But I do n't know much about the others. The bloke in heraldic bearing of Magical transit moderated the commencement debate."

"That 's eight location,"lusterlessness said quietly,"and she could exchange all of them. That would wind up being an entirely new Ministry."

"Essentially, yes,"rose wine said as she sank into an armchair."That 's why it 's so bad. There 's a rationality most newly elected pastor do n't substitute everyone. It 's too lots upheaval. But if she wants prompt change, it would be the wanton way to get it done."

"What 's the next debate on ?"Amanda asked.

"Azkaban,"blush wine said."Originally they were going to debate Azkaban with law enforcement, but Laurnetis requested a separate Azkaban debate. She 's in charge of it, so I 'm not surprised."

"And when is it ?"Amanda replied.

"Just after the new year,"Rose answered."Once we 're all back in school. Then February 's argument is on magical creatures-"

"Oh that 's going to be right,"Matt said."Guess that 's when we 'll find oneself out if my dad keeps his job after the election if she wins."

"And then in March they debate International Magical Cooperation. Then it 's the election at the beginning of April,"rosiness continued."That one is going to guide place here. So is the Azkaban one."

"I still do n't remember anyone 's going to vote for her,"John muttered."Anyone who sacks Harry potter would n't get enough votes."

"You 'd be surprised, John,"Amanda said."It sounds like she 's playing to everyone 's fears. I mean, I have n't been in the magical creation long, but it seems like everyone fears another Voldemort. If she makes it seem like the current Ministry and Auror department are too lenient and breath at the possibility of another war, and then claim that she could squash it before it became a war, she would easily get the vote. People are easily persuaded."

"That 's exactly it,"rosiness agreed.

The room descended into uncomfortable silence. At the offset of the shoal twelvemonth, none of them had lots interest in the election or the Ministry in general, but now, just a few months later, Albus and his admirer were learning just how lots the effect of the election would regard them. The possible action of drastic change to both Hogwarts and the wizarding domain did not sit well with Albus, especially if it meant both his and Matt 's daddy were out of a job.
***


The remaining week of school went by quickly. With the looming holidays and break from schooling, hardly anyone in the castling was focusing on preparation or the election. Instead, the chatter that filled the Great G. Stanley Hall during meals was about Christmas and snowball fight and spending time with family. Albus was sucked into the Christmas cheer as well, but the election was still on the back of his mind.

For Albus, rose, and the rest of the Weasley/Potter clan, the Christmas holiday would be wrapped up in the election. A New Year 's party at the Minister 's Mansion was scheduled for New year 's Eve, for all of the high-ranking officials and their families, as well as Percy, Laurentis, and their families. All of Albus 's extended menage would be attending. But perhaps the most bizarre panorama of the holidays was the fact that Uncle Percy was going to allow a reporter from Wizards magazine to follow him for not only the Ministry party, but Christmas Day at the Burrow as well.

"This is just Wyrd !"Cedric exclaimed at breakfast the concluding day of full term."A reporter ? At the Burrow ? And it says she 's going to be staying with us."

Cedric handed the letter back to Bradley, whom it had been addressed to. Bradley pulled out his verge and burned it, which seemed to be his new way of dealing with office from his father.

"Did Gran agree to this ?"William James asked as he loaded his home plate with bacon.

"She must 've,"Omar Nelson Bradley said."Anything to get Dad elected, probably."

"I kind of agree with her,"Albus said."I do n't need that Laurentis woman to win."

"Neither do I, but I do n't need some newsman staying with us at the tunnel,"Cedric said adamantly.

"speculation you wo n't be getting the actual Weasley Christmas Day experience,"Albus said to Amanda, whose parents had given permission to stay with blush wine for Christmas.

Amanda shrugged."Not a big deal. With your kinsfolk, it 's bound to be interesting."

"You have no idea,"Albus said."We 'd better get to account of Magic."

Albus got up and his booster followed. Despite the fact that it was the final stage day of term, Professor Binns still gave a lecture. cipher paid him an ounce of care. The quietus of the professors did n't trouble oneself teaching any new material as they figured the scholarly person would just draw a blank it over the break. Professor Cedonia set them a practical lesson, but did n't chew up them when they stopped charming their teacups to dance and instead talked about Christmas. Hagrid had a large bonfire going to keep them warmly, but did n't teach anything. Instead, he told the story of Norberta and bawled about how a great deal he missed her. In ancient Runes, there was an examination.

The following morning Albus and his Quaker climbed aboard the Hogwarts Express for the trip back to London. On the Hogwarts Express, Albus felt weirdly resistant to everything that was happening in the wizarding world. He felt safe from Jarrett Willinson and somehow the election did n't seem as big a mess. The railroad train was like its own little man with exclusively student and sweets from the streetcar ; on the train, zero bad could happen.


Long abatement ! I apologize for that. I am now working on this for the 2d half of June 's inner circle NaNoWriMo, so I 'm hoping to get a clump of chapters written so I can go back to weekly updates. Thanks so lots for all the reviews !


"Remember, do n't say anything in forepart of her you do n't want printed in the article,"Harry said as they walked toward the Burrow.

"Will she really print anything ?"Lily asked.

"Yes,"Harry said.

It was Christmas Eve and Albus and the rest of the Potters had just Apparated to the athletic field behind the burrow. Albus was a bit nervous about being in the mien of a newsperson from sensation magazine and was not at all keen about being in an article. He was relieved they were late, as usual, because by now the reporter would probably be involved in listening to individual else 's conversation and might not even comment Albus.

"And St. James the Apostle, do n't even reckon about slipping something into her soup,"Ginny said sternly.

Harry, who had just put his bridge player on the doorknob, turned around and stared at St. James the Apostle."Seriously, St. James, absolutely not."

"I was n't going to !"James said."I swear !"

Harry sighed."Empty your pockets."

"But I was n't going to-"

"James II Sirius ceramicist, listen to your begetter,"Ginny said.

Albus put his mitt over his mouth to hide his laughter while his Brother pulled a handful of Ton-Tongue brittle and a vial of Weasleys'Itchiest itch Powder out of his pocket. Ginny took them and incinerated them with her wand. She brushed the ash onto the priming and James stared at it longingly.

"Shut up, Albus,"James muttered as Harry opened the door.

That just made Albus laugh even harder, earning him a punch in the berm from Saint James the Apostle. Albus returned the punch while Lily rolled her eyes.

"male child, cut it out,"Ginny scolded.

"Ginny ! Harry !"Molly exclaimed as they stepped inside."happy Christmas Day !"

"Happy Christmas, Mum,"Ginny said as the two hugged.

Albus slipped past after giving his grandmother a quick hug, grabbing a handful of cooky on his way to the den. The initiatory matter he noticed was that the reporter was sitting on a stool in the box. She stuck out like a Weasley at a Malfoy gathering, in her blackened skirt, flowery top, high-heeled brake shoe. Who wore heels to the burrow ? Weird, Albus cerebration. Her sooty hair was done up in some sort of bun and her lips were smeared with promising red lip rouge.

The second thing Albus noticed was just how houseclean the Burrow was. He had n't noticed it in the kitchen, what with the many batch and mantrap wide-cut of warm, steaming nutrient, but out in the den, it was very detectable. The tunnel was never dirty, exactly, but it was n't immaculately peachy like Matt and Kaden 's houses were. Instead it merely looked lived in, Albus always thought. It was cluttered with dozens of Word of God and stacks of board plot and various Muggle and charming devices. blanket and pillows were thrown haphazardly onto couch and chairwoman, never being folded or stacked neatly. But today, everything was dandy. The stacks of books had been shelved and the blankets folded. The sheer sum of money of stuff seemed to have been moved or vanished because Albus did n't see a single Muggle electronic device half-taken apart on the floor or table. It was off-the-wall. The burrow did n't appear like the tunnel without its smother. You never knew what you 'd line up at the Burrow and Albus liked that.

Shaking his capitulum slightly, Albus carefully stepped around a few of his full cousin and walked over to where rose and Amanda were sitting on the storey. They had a turgid phonograph recording of food in front of them, making Albus earn how hungry he was.

"So, what have I missed ?"he asked in between morsel of rolling wave."I see soul cleaned."

"grandma did. Said she wanted to make a full impression. Uncle Walker Percy 's been bragging loudly to the reporter about all the natural law he 's help oneself passing game,"rose said."But all the reporter wants to do is interview the residue of us. I guess her clause is all about where Uncle Percy came from and what his crime syndicate is like."

"Who 's she talked to so far ?"Albus asked.

"Aunt Corrine, Gran, Gramps, Uncle nib, Uncle Fred, both of my parents, Victoire, Samantha, and lindy,"rosebush said.

"Wow. Already ?"

"She has n't wasted any clip,"Amanda said.

"There 's a photographer around here somewhere,"Rose said as she glanced around the room."Oh there he is."

blush wine indicated to the step, where Percy was leading a scrawny bloke back into the den.

"Is he wearing-"

"apparel fleece ?"Rose said."Yeah, he 's been wearing them all night."

"Let 's get a few blastoff of you playing a secret plan with the Gemini,"the photographer said as he and Harry Hotspur walked past Albus, Rose, and Amanda.

"Wonderful idea !"the reporter exclaimed as she hopped off her stool.

"How did she take heed that ?"Albus whispered to Rose.

"Harry ceramist 's son !"the newsman said as she grabbed Albus 's arm, causing him to shed the biscuit he was holding."Let 's get him in the shot, too. Hmm ..."she glanced around the way, her middle finally coming to catch one's breath on Amanda."We 'll need a injection with you and Harry Hotspur as well. Candidate plays Exploding snapshot with the Prime minister of religion 's niece ! Perfect ! I could not deliver planned this better."

"How did she know that I 'm the peak Minister 's niece ?"Amanda asked.

"She knows everything,"Rose said darkly."Creepy, really."

Albus soon found himself playing a staged game of Exploding catch with Uncle Percy, Samantha, and Lindy. The whole thing was very preposterous since none of them were photographed with ash on their faces. Then it was Amanda 's turn, but she was posed with a set of Wizard 's Chess,"for variety."

"Now that 's something Laurentis wo n't have,"Sir Henry Percy said jovially after the photographer finished."photograph with the prime of life rector 's niece."

"But nobody knows I 'm the Prime curate 's niece,"Amanda said once she, rose, and Albus escaped into the kitchen."It 's supposed to be a secret."

"Maybe it wo n't get printed,"Albus said.

"God, I hope not,"Amanda muttered."So is this what Christmas Day Eve is usually like ?"

"Mostly,"Albus said as he walked over to the doorway. He peered into the den and took stock of what his family was up to.

His uncles Fred, Ron, Bill, and Charlie, were snug to the kitchen and were singing 'Odo the zep .'All four had mugs of eggnog in script. gran was listening to Celestina Warbeck while auntie Fleur glared at the tuner. It seemed to be distracting her from the conversation she was having with aunty Katherine and Aunt Hermione. almost of his cousin were eating or laughing about one matter or another. Samantha and lindy were playing Exploding breeze for tangible now, along with Eddie and Angie.

In fact, the only one who seemed to be acting any differently was Uncle Harry Hotspur, who was talking with the reporter and the photographer. Aunt Corrine was as well, but none of their honest-to-goodness children were anywhere in sight.

"rich person you seen Bradley, Cedric, or Peach State anywhere ?"Albus asked Rose.

"Actually, no,"rose wine said."Let 's go encounter them."

Albus and Amanda followed pink wine out of the kitchen and up the stairs. As they peered into each sleeping accommodation, Albus found out just where his grannie had stored all the stuff that used to be in the den. Every unmarried room had a chain reactor of random stuff in it. They eventually found their three cousin hiding out in Uncle Ron 's old bedroom at the top of the menage. They were sitting on one of the bed and were deep in conversation.

"What 's going on in here ?"Albus asked as they shut the room access.

All three startled, but then seemed relieved to happen it was only Albus, Rose, and Amanda.

"We 're avoiding the newsperson,"Empire State of the South said,"and talking about how much it will soak up if Dad gets elected."

"But Laurentis is bloody insane,"Albus said as he stepped over a typewriter and sat down on the face-to-face bed."Uncle Harry Hotspur has to win."

"well, I do n't want him to,"Bradley said."Do you actualise how much sprightliness will change if he does ?"

"I 've got a bit of an musical theme,"Amanda said, sitting down next to Albus. Rose sat on his early side.

"Before his movement started no one really knew what Dad did,"Bradley said."Or even who he was. I mean, if they heard his public figure they would know him, but he was just Walker Percy Weasley. Do you know what I mean ?"

"He 'll be Hotspur Weasley, minister of conjuring trick. Not just Harry Hotspur Weasley, your dad,"Amanda said."Minister is n't a just a job. It 's not something he 'll will at the berth at five. It 's more than a lifestyle."

"Exactly !"Omar Bradley agreed.

"And you 'll always be the Minister 's son,"Amanda said.

"How do you know all this ?"Cedric looked at Amanda strangely.

"My Uncle 's the Prime curate,"Amanda said casually.

"Of U.K. ?"Bradley exclaimed."And you 've kept this secret for four years ?"

"Yeah. It wo n't be for a great deal longer since that lensman just took a picture of me with your dad,"Amanda said."Anyway, you 're rectify that your life wo n't be the same if he gets elected. And even after his term is up you 'll still always be the Minister 's son."

"And we 'd cause to move into the Minister 's mansion house,"Thomas Bradley said.

"You would n't. You 're going to graduate in June,"Cedric pointed out."And GA already moved out."

"You 'll be in Hogwarts well-nigh of the year,"GA pointed out.

There was a knocking on the door and then it swung wide undecided. Percy stood in the doorway flanked by the reporter and photographer. Percy had changed out of his robes and was now wearing a fleeceable Weasley pinny with a red'P'on the front line. In his arm was a stack of what appeared to be more Weasley jumpers.

"There you lot are,"Harry Hotspur said."We 're doing a picture of the whole family unit in our jumpers."He tossed one to each of his children and then one each to Albus and rose wine."Get changed and get downstairs."

"Are they all initial sweater this year ?"Georgia asked as she held hers up. It was grey with a purple'G .'

"Must be,"Albus said as he yanked off the jumper he was wearing and pulled on his new one. It was aristocratical with a Au'A .'

"Bet it 's to defecate us look like a cheesy crime syndicate,"Omar Bradley muttered as he changed.

Once they 'd all changed Albus and Rose followed their cousin-german back down to the den. Amanda followed as well, but she lingered on the stairs, clearly not wanting to be dragged into anymore photographs.

Albus 's entire family was posed in half the den. The photographer was running around making pocket-size adjustments, which Albus thinking was pointless. There was no way he was going to get 32 hoi polloi to all spirit at the television camera and smile nicely at the Sami metre.

The photographer noticed Albus, rosebush, Georgia, Omar Bradley, and Cedric and shoved Albus in between St. James the Apostle and Lily, who were sitting right in the middle, on the floor.

"Lovely !"the lensman exclaimed a few minutes later. He ran to the other side of the elbow room and stuck his head behind the television camera."Everyone smile ! Beautiful !"He took dozens of pictures and Albus soon grew tired of sitting still and smiling.

"Wonderful !"the reporter shouted once the photographer finally finished."I think we 've got what we need. I wish you all a happy Noel. The article should be out just after New Year's."

"I thought she was staying for tomorrow, too,"Albus whispered to Rose.

Rose shrugged."Maybe she got enough from just one night. Either that or she got overwhelmed."

Harry Hotspur walked the reporter and photographer out of the Burrow, thanking them profusely as he did so.

"Bedtime, everyone !"Molly shouted.

No one objected. It had certainly been the unknown Christmas Eve gathering the Weasley family had ever had and Albus was very much looking forward to tomorrow, when things would get back to some semblance of normal. Albus walked up to bed with rose wine and Amanda, wishing them both salutary Nox when they reached Uncle Charlie 's old chamber, where the two would be staying. James, Ben, Cedric, and Thomas Bradley were already in Uncle Ron 's old way when Albus arrived.

"Quidditch tomorrow ?"James asked as all four boys climbed into their beds.

"You 're going down, thrower,"Bradley replied.

"Is that a challenge, Weasley ?"

"Sure is,"Tom Bradley said.

Yes, tomorrow would be a lot more formula, Albus thought. Quidditch was a Christmas tradition for his family and nada, even his uncle running for minister of religion, was going to prevent it.
***


"And that 's how we do it in Kenmare !"Georgia exclaimed, having just saved a goal by spinning in midair and hitting the Quaffle back into play by the end of her broom."Kenmare Krazy steward motion !"

"You 're still going to lose !"Bradley shouted as he hit one of the Bludgers toward Albus, who dodged it and caught the Quaffle."We 've got Teddy !"

"If Teddy were a real Seeker he 'd be playing for a League team and not studying to be an Auror !"Georgia shouted back.

"He 's still not as safe as James,"Bradley said.

"Yeah, I taught James II everything he knows !"Teddy said as he flew retiring, heading toward GA 's left goal mail service."And that 's game !"he shouted, returning with the Snitch clutched in his hand."Aurors have to have unceasing watchfulness, just like Seekers."

Albus flew to the ground, still holding the Quaffle. It had been a expert game, even though his team had lost, but the temperature was dropping and the clouds were rolling in. It was a salutary time to direct back inside for Christmas dinner party, especially since the olfactory property of roast Republic of Turkey and Solanum tuberosum had been drifting alfresco for the past tense half hour.

mesa, already covered in numerous dishes of food, had been set up in the kitchen extending into the den while they played. Albus hurried upstairs to change and when he returned, everyone was drifting toward the tables. Albus hurried to the ass Rose and Amanda had saved him, which thankfully was nowhere near Percy.

"How was Quidditch ?"rosebush asked.

"trade good,"Albus said."We lost, but shimmy 's pretty much invincible, so I was n't surprised."

"I 'm storm he did n't play professionally,"Amanda said.

"He thought about it,"Albus explained."And he had go, but he deferred them for a twelvemonth because he was n't sure. Then he just decided to conjoin the Auror academy, because of his parents, you know."

"shuffling sense,"Amanda said.

"I 'd like to make a goner,"Percy announced after everyone was seated. He held up his ice of pumpkin juice."I just want to say thank you, to all of you, for putting up with the reporter yesterday, and for everything you 've done for the effort. We only have three calendar month to go, so let 's make the about of it. Keep up all the great work. Here 's to a win in Apr !"

Albus clinked glasses with Rose and Amanda and then served himself a bombastic helping of Turkey. This was what he enjoyed the most about Christmas at the Burrow. As he he ate, he listened in on the conversations his cousins, auntie, and uncles were having.

To Albus 's leftfield, his aunt Hermione was giving James River, Cedric, and Ben study tips for their O.W.L.s. The boys were nodding as if they were listening, but Albus knew they were n't. Victoire and Teddy were holding hands under the table, which was kind of funny because Victoire was having to eat with her left hired hand, a skill she clearly did not have. James, Omar Bradley, and Peach State were discussing Quidditch with Uncles George and Ron. Eddie was showing the Gemini, Lily, and Victor-Marie Hugo just how many pea he could fit into his mouth at once. Harry Hotspur was, of class, discussing the game inside information of his campaign with his wife and parents. Fred and cross were telling Angie about the secret passageway that lead into the cellar of Honeyduke 's. The remainder of his family was too far away for Albus to discover what exactly they were saying, but everyone seemed glad.

"This is what it 's really like,"Albus told Amanda."Usually there are a few pranks."

"You missed one in the first place,"pink wine said while Amanda laughed."James put one of those wind-up Pygmy Puffs in Gran 's biggest pot, so while she was chopping veg it jumped out and started screeching. aunty Ginny knew it was James River, too. He got chewed out while you were upstair changing."

"She had no proof !"James cut in."It could have been Cedric."

"But it was n't,"Rose said."It was you."

"James, did you get wind me ?"Hermione asked."I was just saying how you need to start with your weakest national first. Honestly, you should 've started preparing death year. Albus, Rose, Amanda, are you listening ? You should take off revision now."

"I started weeks ago, Mum,"Rose said.

Hermione smiled."That 's my girl."

"She 'll be lucky if James starts revising a month before,"Albus whispered to Amanda.

"That would be stupid,"Rose said."What does he want to do after Hogwarts ? He 'll need certain O.W.L.s to get into the right N.E.W.T. classes."

"He 's got no idea,"Albus said,"except he wants to play Quidditch."

"He 'd better get going,"Rose said.

"Oh, and I suppose you 've got it all figured out, Rose ?"James asked.

"As a matter of fact, I 'm thinking of getting into psychiatry,"blush wine said."Get my healing degree, specializing in psychiatry."

"Fine, then,"James muttered.

"Really ?"Albus asked.

Rose nodded."I 've been thinking about it since summertime and it 's really want I want to do."

"Do n't you think you 're a bit young to suffer decided that ?"Albus asked.

"matt 's sister had it all figured out in fourth twelvemonth and facial expression where she is now,"Rose pointed out.

She did have a power point there, Albus thought. mat 's baby was well on her way to getting both her healing and brewing degree, with only two and a half more years to go. Albus did n't even want to remember about what he would do after he graduated from Hogwarts. It was too far away.

"I have an proclamation to make !"Gabriella said as she stood up.

The room quieted and everyone turned to calculate at Gabriella. She was n't usually one to make speeches or announcement during phratry dinners. In fact, she was one of the quieter of Albus 's cousins, certainly not coming near to the level of boisterousness of Bradley, Jesse James, or Georgia.

"Thanks,"she said."None of you know this yet, since I figured I 'd just tell you all at once today. I 've decided to displace to France."

The room was understood, much like it was after Percy announced his aim to run for Minister at the before school dinner. Then, as happened after Percy 's announcement, everyone began to babble at once.

"You 're what ?"Bill exclaimed.

"Gabriella, love !"Fleur shouted, dropping her Methedrine of wine."What prompted this ?"

"The political climate in French Republic is very unsteady,"Percy said."I would n't recommend moving there."

"What are you going to do there ?"Heather asked.

Albus was n't at all surprised. Gabriella had spent a few workweek in French Republic that descent and seemed to delight it. He was n't for certain why her parents seemed so surprised.

"If everyone could just let me talk !"Gabriella shouted. The room quieted one more than."I 've already cleared it with Grandmere and Grandpere. They 're going to let me stay with them until I get on my metrical foot. When I painted there this decline it just felt so right. My paintings there were so much better than the I I 've painted here-"

"But what will you do for money ?"Bill asked."You know I could still get you that internship. This is crazy."

"Dad, it 's what I want to do. I do n't want to spend everyday in an spot and miss out on sprightliness. No criminal offence. Painting is what I love. I want to try this."

"But Gabriella, it 's not practical-"measure began.

"invoice,"Molly said quietly."She 's just rebelling a bit. You did the Saami when you were her age. Remember the earring ? The hair ?"

note 's face reddened."It 's not the Sami, Mum. I had a job. I was n't learning the finer level of being a starving artist !"

"Dad ! I 'm a good artist ! I 'm not going to starve !"

"You know my parents would never let her starve,"Fleur said.

"That 's not the point. The point is that she should be doing something productive. When Victoire was her age-"

"I 'm not Victoire !"Gabriella exclaimed. She turned and left the room, running up the stairs. A few here and now later a doorway slammed.

Bill made to get up, but Victoire put her manus on his shoulder, forcing him back into his seat."Dad, I 'll go."

The way lapsed into uncomfortable silence after Victoire took off after her sister. Albus was slightly shocked at his uncle 's dislike of Gabriella 's plan. Albus had always thought of Bill as his cool uncle, the uncle who would be supportive of whatever his kidskin wanted to do. But now he was acting just like Percy had about Georgia 's desire to be a Quidditch player.

"I support you, greenback,"Percy said pompously."creative person is not a career. You 've got to fight this. Went through the same affair with Georgia-"

"Really, Dad ?"GA asked."After the past tense few calendar month of going to my biz and making the press think you 're supportive of my dream, you still do n't think I should playact Quidditch ?"

"Quidditch, like painting, is a hobby,"Percy said."It 's not a career."

"You 're unbelievable !"Georgia exclaimed."The support, the cheering, it 's all fake, is n't it ?"

"Georgia-"

"You know what, Dad ? Do n't even bother."Georgia stood up and left the mesa in a similar manner to Gabriella.

"This,"Albus whispered to Amanda,"is not normal."

"I thought Gabriella liked Uncle Percy 's fake accompaniment,"James muttered.

"well, she did at beginning but she probably thought there was no way he could bull it for so long and not begin to come around. She surely thought it was rattling by now,"rose said.

"You 're going to make a good shrink,"Albus said.

"Yeah, you can start with Uncle Percy,"James said.

"Energy Department anyone want pudding ?"granny asked.


A/N : Thanks for all the reviews !


Never before had Albus experienced such an ill at ease Christmas dinner, and that included the clock time his auntie Katherine went into labor with Eddie at the board. After Gabriella and GA stormed out, nan served pudding to the remaining menage extremity, but everyone ate in silence. Albus, Rose, and Amanda ate as fast as they could and then escaped to the one place they did n't think anyone else would go- the attic.

The attic of the tunnel was exchangeable to an archaeological site. It contained stratum of Weasley family history and if you dug deep enough you could even find movie of Uncle greenback when he was a baby. It used to firm a ghoul, but the ghoul died years before Albus was born. Albus did n't go up in the noodle a lot anymore, but when he was fiddling it had made an excellent hiding spot.

"I never realized how likewise Gabriella and Georgia were,"Albus said once they 'd keep out the attic door.

"I never realized how likewise Uncle Percy and Uncle Bill were,"Rose replied."I never thought Uncle Bill would react like that."

"Me either,"Albus agreed."Let 's not talk about it. I just want to do something fun."

"Let 's romp Monopoly,"Amanda said."It 's a Muggle game. I brought it from my house."

Albus and pink wine readily agreed and soon the three were playing Monopoly in the bean. It took Albus and pink wine a little while to get the hang of the money, which was based on Muggle money, but once they did, it was very fun. Albus 's favorite matter about it was how long it took. They spent minute on one plot and by the time Amanda beat him and rose wine, almost all of his family was asleep.

By breakfast the next morning nearly everything had blown over. Half of his aunts and uncles had left because they had to go to exploit and the other half were in the summons of getting fix to leave. Some of his cousins were still there, but quite a few had left. When Albus went downstairs he noticed his uncle Bill and aunt Fleur having a talk with Gabriella over phonograph record of sausages. Albus paused in the door, waiting for them to finish.

"We do n't desire you to intend we are n't supportive of your art,"Bill said."We are. Both of us. I just want to know you 're going to be okay."

"I am, Dad,"Gabriella said."I 'll be staying with Grandmere and Grandpere."

"That 's reassuring,"banknote said."And I did overreact last night."

Fleur snorted."Yes, I 'd say you did."

"I certainly do n't want you to call back I 'm anything like your uncle Hotspur,"note whispered."I 'd never try and stop you from pursuing your dream."

"fountainhead, painting in France is my dream for now,"Gabriella said adamantly.

"Then we 'll support you,"card said. Fleur nodded in agreement."I 'm blue for overreacting close night. I think we were all on border from the reporter."

"Thanks, Dad,"Gabriella said.

"When were you planning on leaving ?"Fleur asked.

"After that Ministry party. Ca n't miss that or Uncle Percy would go insane."

"The weekend after that, then,"notice said."We want to help you move."

Gabriella nodded."Thanks."

Bill stood up and gave his daughter a hug."I 've got to get to work, but I 'll see you at home later. I love you, Gabby."

"Love you, too, Dad,"Gabriella said as she hugged him back.

Albus walked into the kitchen as his uncle left, grabbing a few sausage and a Cinnamomum zeylanicum bun on his way to the board. He was relieved that Uncle invoice and Gabriella came to an concord, especially one that involved Gabriella still moving to France. He wanted his cousin to be well-chosen and he still wanted to think of broadside as his cool uncle.

Albus returned to Grimmauld Place later that day and it only took him a few hours of boredom to get going his vacation reading. Rose and Amanda had returned to blush wine 's house, so without them, he was forced to be fat. In fact, Albus was actually looking forward to the Ministry company for the solitary reason that he 'd get to see pink wine and flatness.

The few days in between Boxing Day and New Year 's Eve were fairly uneventful, especially compared with Christmas day. Georgia and Uncle Percy still had n't made up and Georgia came over for a heart-to-heart with Albus 's mum the day before the company. Albus often forgot that his mum used to diddle pro Quidditch and would be the perfect person for Georgia to attempt advice from.

Albus attempted to heed in on their conversation via Extendable Ear, but his mum must 've put an interperbabble magic spell on the kitchen door because he could n't discover a matter. Dejected, he put away his Extendable Ear and returned to reading his Transfiguration rule book.

Shortly after Georgia left James walked in the support door with a grinning on his face.

"What are you so happy about ?"Albus asked.

"Mum forgot to put the charm on the window,"James IV said."I heard everything."

"Well, severalise me what you heard !"Albus said as he closed his book.

"I do n't live ...."

"semen on, James,"Albus said."If you do I wo n't severalize Mum and Dad what you 're planning on doing to the punch at the party tomorrow."

"Fine,"James muttered as he sat down."Basically, Peach State 's still mad at Uncle Hotspur and does n't want to go to the company tomorrow. Mum convinced her that she needs to have the high road and be supportive of Uncle Percy even though he is n't being supportive of her. And she said there 's no secret to getting him to discern Quidditch as a valid career. He just has to actualise it on his own and all Sakartvelo can do is be the best histrion she can and hold up herself and not ask him for money. But then she reminded Georgia that grandpa was very supportive of her Quidditch career."

"Nothing too exciting, then,"Albus said.

"Nope, not really,"James agreed."Going to clear for an interesting company, though."

"That 's for certainly,"Albus said.
***


"Is the curate 's Mansion glowing blue ?"Albus asked as he followed his parents up the winding route to the mansion.

It was New Year 's Eve and the ceramist were slightly late for the party, as usual. This prison term Saint James the Apostle had not been the reasonableness ; they were late because Ginny had had to lengthen Albus 's robes last minute.

"It looks that way,"Harry answered."Wait until you see the inside. The election New year 's Eve party at the Minister 's Mansion is one of the grandest social function the Ministry puts on, only beaten out by the party that will take place for the succeeder of the election. It 's going to be far fancier than the party for Mr. Eckerton last year."

Albus nodded. As they drew penny-pinching to the house Albus noticed that the blue light seemed to halt from the primer coat, illuminating the theater as it went upward, but he could not see where the Light Within came from. It looked to just come along out of the primer coat. The path itself was lined with silver wax light.

The door was already open when they reached the end of the path. A man dressed in a entire tux with hind end stood in the doorway and he took Ginny and Lily 's wraps while another man led the ceramist into the grand dance hall.

The ballroom was already filled to capacity and Albus noticed that nearly half of the people in attendance were his auntie, uncles, and cousins. The dance hall itself was lit by ash gray candles similar to the unity that lined the itinerary outside. The windowpane were draped in with child Navy curtains tied with silver Mexican valium and matching linen paper dressed the table and chairs scattered throughout the room. Larger tables containing platters of intellectual nourishment stood in the shopping center of the way, each one holding an ice carving. The sculptures were of various historic buildings in wizarding Britain, including one of Hogwarts.

waiter dressed in the like tuxedo as the wizards by the door walked throughout the room carrying plates of solid food and swallow. After taking a feel at some of the food for thought they carried, Albus wondered if there was anything formula or if it was just fancy hors d'oeuvres.

"Before you all take off to feel your cousins,"Harry began, staring more at his son than at Lily."Saint James, absolutely no joke. Albus, no sneaking off to former parts of the mansion or going outside this year. Promise me, both of you."

"I promise,"Albus and James each mumbled.

"All right, you may go,"Harry said."And proceed an eye out for your jr. cousins. Make sure they 're not getting into trouble."

Albus nodded and then slipped into the crowd in hunt of flatness, Rose, and something to eat that did not resemble something his aunt Fleur 's mother would make. He finally wound up at the dessert table where he found both a large piece of drinking chocolate patty and his friends.

"Albus, there you are !"Rose said."We 've been here for an hour already."

"Mum had to lengthen my robes,"Albus said in between pungency of cake.

"I 'm not surprised. You grew a infantry in the by year,"Rose commented.

"Seriously, you 've got to block up,"matt said."You make me look like a mo year."

"Is everyone else here ?"Albus asked as they walked over to a mostly void table. Its only resident was a very old man who seemed to be taking a nap.

Rose nodded."Even Sakartvelo showed up. But I did find out that the alone grounds we were all invited was to make Uncle Percy look like more of a kinfolk man."

"Really ?"Albus asked."I thought it was just because families of the candidates were always invited."

"No. Usually it 's only quick sept members, plus all the Heads of departments and top Ministry functionary and their families. So not all of us were going to be invited at first. It 's to score us look like a very close plain family."

"You are a close knitting family,"Matt said."It 's like you 're all brothers and sister rather than cousins."

"But Uncle Walker Percy never really imply any of us in his Ministry vocation before,"Albus pointed out."Anyway, mat, how was your Christmastime ?"

"trade good,"mat said."Rose already told me about yours. Sounded much more interesting than mine. My grandparents came to visit and they went plate yesterday. Mum and Cinda argued over the fact that we do n't chaffer them enough anymore and then Mum and Amy argued over the fact that Amy never comes plate except for holidays. Dad, Richard, and I just stayed out of it. I swear, those three could argue over nothing."

"Sounds like yours was interesting then,"Albus said.

mat shrugged."Honestly, it 's been rather boring at home."

"I 'm ready to get back to Hogwarts,"Albus said."Is Amy here ?"

"Yeah, she 's off with Victoire and shimmy,"matt said.

"Oh, by the way, do n't tope the poke,"Albus warned them."James is planning to put something in it."

"What ?"Rose asked.

"I do n't know, but it 'll probably be gross,"Albus said.

"If your uncle wins your cousins will get to hold out here,"mat said as he gazed around the elbow room."Weird to imagine about. This place looks vainglorious than my old house."

"It probably is,"Rose said."And you 're right, that is uncanny to call up about."

The old man let out a snort and woke up. His heart darted around until they rested on Albus, Rose, and matt."Who are you three ?"he demanded.

"Er, I 'm Albus thrower and that 's rose Weasley and lusterlessness Eckerton,"Albus said.

His face softened."Oh, nice to meet you ! I 'm Gregory Laurentis. My girl 's running play for Minister. Could not be prouder, but I suppose she 's running against your uncle. Albus Potter, Merlin 's whiskers ! I told patty, I told her she was ball to run against Walker Percy Weasley what with him being related to Harry potter himself, but her company picked her to run so I suppose there was nothing I could do about it. And she could n't change state down that chance ...."

Albus glanced at pink wine and lustrelessness while Laurnetis 's dad continued to rattle on about how proud he was of his daughter, yet marvel at her stupidity for running against someone related to Harry potter. He was rather shady, Albus thought.

"This piazza is too tinker's damn take to,"Gregory Laurnetis muttered as he fingered the tablecloth."And the food, my God, what I would n't render for some cracker and mash ...."

Albus stifled a laugh, but he did concord with the old man."I think I hear one of my cousins calling me,"Albus said."We 'd better go."

"Oh, right, right,"Ugo Buoncompagni Laurentis said."I do n't discover anything, but then again my hearing 's so bad these years. fountainhead, good luck to your uncle, then. Not that he 'll want it !"

"good luck to your daughter, too,"Albus said as he stood up.

All three burst out laughing as soon as they were out of earshot of Gregory Laurentis. A few Ministry official looked at them strangely as they did so, but Albus did n't give care.

"Albus !"Matt suddenly whispered."Is that Balladanis over there ?"Matt pointed to the far back corner, where a man in spare black gown stood with his sleeve folded across his chest.

Albus peered at the man for a few minute."Yeah, I think it is."

"What 's he doing here ?"Matt asked.

"Probably in lawsuit of an attack,"Rose said."Every prominent Ministry official is in this way right now. There 's probably Aurors stationed at every door outside, too."

"Do n't let him see us,"Matt said as he grabbed both Albus and rosiness and pulled them behind a prominent chemical group of masses."Can we just go somewhere else ?"

Albus glanced at Balladanis and then back at Matt, who looked more than a lilliputian neural. Albus did n't pick him. After last year 's outrage with Balladanis, it was no curiosity Matt never wanted to see the man again. Albus thought briefly of what his dad told him when they got there, but pushed the hope from his mind. If Matt did n't require to be in the same way as Balladanis, then Albus was just going to have to break his promise.

"cum on,"blush wine said before Albus could reply. She took Albus and Matt 's hands and pulled them through the crowd. She let them go once they reached the corridor.

The corridor was much tranquil than the ballroom. Albus had n't even realized just how loud the ballroom was until now. Between the music and multitude 's vocalization, it was a wonder he 'd even been capable to think in there.

"Thanks,"Matt said quietly."He just gives me the creeps."

"No problem,"Rose said."Where should we go ?"

"We could try and discover that program library again,"Albus suggested.

rosebush and matte nodded and the three set off down the corridor. It took them fifteen minutes and three incorrect tour to find the depository library and once they got there, they saw that it was already occupied by none former than Georgia, Bradley, and Cedric.

"We 've got to barricade using the same concealment space,"Georgia said with a laugh as they entered."Just joking. Come on in."

Rose shut the door behind them and they joined Sakartvelo, Bradley, and Cedric on the other position of the room.

"Sick of the political party ?"Empire State of the South asked.

"We saw Balladanis,"Matt said quietly as he sat down."Did n't need him to note us."

Peach State shuddered."Do n't blame you there, especially since your dad is the intellect he got sacked."

"I kind of liked him,"Bradley said.

Matt looked at him like he was insane."Are you kidding ?"

Bradley shrugged."Nope. I 'm not terribly upset he 's gone, but he was kind of cool."

"You 're mad,"matt said.

"What about you three ? What drove you to the library ?"Albus asked, wanting to stave off an argument between his best friend and cousin.

"Decided to explore the household,"Cedric said."If we 're going to have to live here, we wanted to see what we 'd be getting into."

"And what do you recall ?"rosebush asked.

"Living here would n't be so bad,"Cedric said."Tom Bradley and I would n't ingest to share a room. Neither would Samantha and Lindy, for that matter."

"I told you, one of you can have my way,"Georgia said.

"Dad wo n't let us,"Omar Nelson Bradley replied."Says you 're going to come back when Quidditch stops paying off."

GA groaned."Really, the faith he has in me is incredible."

"We met Laurentis 's dad,"Albus said.

Georgia burst out laughing."Seriously ?"

Albus nodded and told the story. All three of his first cousin were laughing by the clock time he finished.

"I may have to go back out there just so I can fulfil him,"Georgia said, still laughing.

"He sounds like a very worry lad,"Bradley said.

flatness got up from his hot seat and began wandering around the depository library. He paused by the door, as if listening.

"What are you doing ?"Albus asked.

"I heard something,"mat whispered."Shut up, all of you."

Georgia immediately stopped laughing and all five of them stopped talking. matte 's eyes grew big and he hurried back over."person 's coming !"

"I do n't get wind any-"Bradley began.

"Sshhh !"Albus said as he jumped up."cartel him on this. We 've got to hide."

"There 's a closet,"Rose said as she hurried to open the door."It 's not very big-"

"Department of Energy n't matter,"lustrelessness said."Hurry, get inside."

Albus just started hearing the vocalism as they hurried inside the closet. It was a very tight squeeze and Rose was stepping on his bequeath metrical unit, but he said nothing as he shut the doorway. Two seconds later he heard the door to the program library open.

"It 's not working !"a woman said. Her voice was muffled ; Albus could barely name out what she said, let alone who she was.

"I ca n't hear anything,"Cedric whispered."Is this doorway solid mahogany or something ?"

"Shut up !"Matt seethed. He had his ear pressed to the door.

"The one clock time I do n't institute any Extendables with me,"Cedric muttered.

Albus pressed his ear up against the door. The voices were still muffled, but he could hear.

"I told you they 'd eat up the altogether phratry man thing,"another voice said. This one was male."Not to mention he 's Harry Potter 's brother-in-law for God 's sake !"

"Harry Potter is an incompetent person idiot and you know it,"the womanhood replied."He 's far-famed for something he did as a tyke and the universal public is stupid to still think of him as the hero of the wizarding cosmos. He 's gone soft."

"It 's Laurentis !"matte said.

"How can you say ?"Bradley asked."This door is so blinking thick."

"I just can,"Matt said.

Albus could n't differentiate that the voice was Laurentis 's, but based on what she was saying, Matt was redress.

"Well, what am I supposed to do about it ?"the man said.

"We 've got to think of something,"Laurentis said."The Azkaban argumentation is in a week. I 'm sure you can call up of something to do for that."

"I think that 's her movement manager,"lusterlessness said.

"She sounds awfully,"Albus said.

"It should n't be that toilsome. All we have to do is expose Weasley for what he really is and get everyone to actualize thrower 's not the hero sandwich they all think he is,"Laurentis said.

"And who is Weasley, then ?"

"A pompous retard !"Laurentis exclaimed."You do n't really buy the whole fact that he supports his daughter 's Quidditch career, do you ? I 've seen the way she looks at him and there 's no way that 's real."

"You ca n't really know that-"

"I can,"she interrupted."I can learn the great unwashed, Pierce. That 's why I got into politics. It 's all about reading people and figuring out the lies from the truths. See what you can dig up. We 'd better return to the party. I left my father alone with Minister Langston. That wo n't turn out well."

"Yes, Ms. Laurentis,"Pierce replied.

Albus heard the sound of high blackguard on hardwood floor, the threshold creak receptive, and then penetrate shut again. He waited two wide-cut arcminute and then opened the room access to the closet. Everyone hurried out.

"What was that ?"matte demanded."What is she up to ?"

"How did you beguile all that ?"Bradley asked."Do you have super human earshot or something ?"

"Or something,"matte muttered,"but never nous that. Laurentis knows your dad 's putting on an act and is going to try to scupper him."He turned to Albus."And she is going to try and plough the wizarding world against your dad."

"She 's insane !"Albus exclaimed.

"You 've got to severalize your uncle-"mat began.

"No way,"Georgia said loudly."corporate trust me, all he 'll do is pick me for not playing my region well enough. This is n't leaving this room."

"But she 's going to undermine his campaign,"Albus said.

"Georgia 's right,"rosiness said."It wo n't help anything. Campaigns are half about digging up dirt on the former candidate. Anything she says about Uncle Harry, no one will think it unless they 're an idiot. Anyone with half a mind knows he runs the Auror Department well."

"If anyone says anything he 'll just get mad at us for spying,"Bradley added.

"Not to mention we 're not technically allowed in here,"Cedric pointed out.

"Oh, right,"Albus said."My dad did lay down me promise not to leave the ballroom."

"No one 's saying anything,"GA said."And I think we 'd all better get back to the dance palace, just in case anyone notices we 're all gone.


Thanks for all the critical review ! Remember to keep them 12+. Props to all who caught the 'mahogany'hunger game reference. citation for that goes to Suzanne William Wilkie Collins. If any of you are members of the assembly ( and if you 're not, you should be, relate on the right side of the Page ! ), feel free to check out my meet the Author page ! It 's linked on my generator page. Please ask me interrogative on my MTA Sir Frederick Handley Page since I love answering them !


When they returned to the ballroom Albus was proud of to see that Balladanis was nowhere in sight. Perhaps he left to patrol the basis. Albus did n't really care ; all that mattered was that he was n't there anymore. Judging by the crowd in the room, no one else had left yet, and they all seemed a bit more boisterous, most likely due to the drinkable.

Harry Hotspur accosted them before they were even able-bodied to get to the desert table to reload their plates with cake. He walked with purpose, similarly to the way he had walked when he took Albus and his friends to Kendrick 's subject. He seemed very at house in the Minister 's planetary house and it was n't even his yet.

"Sakartvelo !"he said."There you are. I 've been looking for you everywhere."

"I was in the loo. Something you need, Dad ?"GA asked.

"Er, yes, actually,"Percy replied."I need you to demand Samantha and lindy home. It 's nearly eleven and your mother and I are going to be here well past midnight. Samantha ate too often cake and feels ill. I just think it would be best for them to go home and get some slumber. They 're over at that table."Harry Hotspur gestured to a nearby board, where Samantha and Lindy were sitting, both with their point in their hands, looking extremely bored.

GA raised her eyebrow, as if surprise that Percy was actually going to not only let three of his children leave, but request that they do so. Albus was surprised he 'd even thought about the fact that it was n't really a party for two nine-year-olds.

"Yeah, I can take them home,"Georgia said.

"What about us ?"Bradley asked, gesturing to himself and Cedric."Could n't we take them place ?"

"I 'd rather Georgia do it,"Percy said."You do n't even make your Apparition permission yet, Cedric. And Thomas Bradley, you just got yours. You 're not prepare to side-along Apparate two people."

"They do have fireplaces here, Dad,"Bradley muttered.

"GA 's taking them, and the two of you are staying here,"Harry Hotspur said adamantly."Thank you, Georgia."

"You 're welcome,"Georgia said as Percy strutted off to talk to some Ministry functionary."Ha !"she said once he was out of earshot."I get to leave."

"Shut up,"Cedric said."I 'm going to go find James."

Georgia headed over to the board her sisters were sitting at while Bradley and Cedric disappeared into the crowd. Albus, lusterlessness, and Rose wandered over to the dessert table, piled a plate heights with the biscuits a waiter had just set out, and then set off to bump another table. They found one, which Victoire, chemise, and Amy were vacating.

"Where are you three off to ?"Albus asked.

"We 've got ahead of time troll tomorrow,"Victoire said."Five in the morning. If we 're lucky we 'll get four hours of sleep."

"I do n't see a lot point in time in staying if they 're not here,"Teddy said."Technically I was n't even invited, but seeing as I 'm Harry ceramicist 's Godson, no one was going to kick back me out."

Albus laughed."See you later, then."

After Victoire, shimmy, and Amy left Albus sat down and his protagonist sat on either English. He absentmindedly chewed on a biscuit and watched the bunch.

"Do these savor funny remark to you ?"Matt asked, holding up a partially feed biscuit.

Albus took another bite. They did taste weird."Yeah."

Rose burst out laughing and started pointing at their heads."I think King James I messed with the biscuits instead of the punch. Al, your hair is profane and matt, yours is green."

Albus and lustrelessness both started laughing. Albus took another look at the crowd."Look, that gentlewoman 's hair is purple !"He pointed to a beldam a few railway yard away. The bloke she was talking to was clearly trying not to stare at her head.

Over the adjacent few minutes people gradually began to realize that their hair's-breadth was turning various colors and that the biscuits were the culprit. Wands appeared everywhere, as the guests charmed each former 's hair back to its normal semblance. Another min later Albus spotted both of his parents walking around the perimeter of the room, clearly looking for Epistle of James, but he was nowhere in sight.

"I like this prank,"Albus said."I 'm leaving my hair as is."

"Me too,"flatness agreed. They both turned to Rose."You should eat one."

pink wine sighed."Might as well."She took a biscuit and a minute later her formerly red hair was a lovely shade of pink.

The eternal rest of the party was rather boring. Harry eventually found James I and told him he 'd be staying in his room for the balance of the holiday, only being allowed out for meal. When midnight rolled around Albus, Matt, and rose wine toasted to the new class with Lily and Hugo. flatness and his parents left immediately afterward and Albus and his fellowship left a short while later. Albus was relieved to be going abode since the dark had been exhausting, and he still could n't get the conversation he overheard in the library out of his mind.
***


"It 's here !"James shouted the next first light at breakfast, brandishing a copy of magician magazine. The battlefront cover was a mental picture of Albus 's grandparents, his mum, Uncle Percy, Uncle neb, Uncle Charlie, Uncle George VI, and Uncle Ron.

"Let me see it !"Albus shouted.

"No, I got it first !"King James shouted back.

"I want to register it first !"Lily exclaimed.

"Kids, settle down !"Ginny said."James got it first. Al can read it following, and then Lily."

"Not fair,"Lily muttered."I 'm never first."

That was a lie, Albus thought to himself. It was either King James I or Lily who got things first, never Albus. Curse of being the centre child, he figured.

Albus sat and ate his breakfast while Saint James the Apostle read the clause. His brother let out groan and sighs and even laughter while he read, which made Albus even more dying to interpret it. After what seemed wish forever, it was finally Albus 's round. He yanked the magazine out of James 's hand and opened it up to the article.

The first Sir Frederick Handley Page ( or rather, first two pages ), contained the picture of his entire family. Albus had been right in guessing that there was no way the photographer could 've drive a picture that they all looked good in. Albus himself at to the lowest degree looked halfway decent. He was smiling and kept turning to look at rosiness and then back to the television camera. Lily on the early paw, was caught mid-grimace and always returned to that sit every few seconds. Across the photo was the gens of the article- 'Christmas With the Weasleys .'Albus turned the page and looked at all the early photographs that accompanied the article before reading it. There was one of Harry Hotspur, Corrine, and their kidskin. Another sport Percy and Albus 's dad. Then there was the one with him playing Exploding centering with the Gemini the Twins and Harry Hotspur, as well as the one with Hotspur and Amanda playing chess. The caption on that translate 'Minister hopeful Hotspur Weasley challenges the bloom Minister 's niece to a game of chess game .'Amanda was not going to be happy, Albus thought as he turned his attention to the article.

When I first entered the childhood household of Percy
Weasley I immediately noticed the delicious smells
that filled the air. molly Weasley, Walker Percy 's female parent,
was hard at body of work cooking Xmas Eve dinner. The
small, but cosy, home was filled to capacity with
Weasleys, although it only grew more herd with
the arrival of the Potters an hour later.

The Weasley family gathers for Christmas at the
home of Arthur and Molly Weasley every year.
Arthur, a retired Ministry employee, says ,'I
screw having the entire family together. It 's
disorderly, but I would n't have it any other way .'
The even begins with a meal, although eating
seems to take place over many time of day. The atmosphere
is homey and felicitous, with every unmarried family
member enjoying their prison term with each early.

Hotspur Weasley, a loving Padre of five, joins in
on the fun and Christmas spirit by challenging
his nine-year-old girl Samantha and Lindy,
as well as nephew Albus Potter, 14, to a game
of Exploding Snap .'I feel it 's important to
spend metre with my kid, as well as my nieces
and nephews ,'Weasley said, 'we have such niggling
time with them before they go off to Hogwarts.
My eldest is already out on her own and my boy
only have a little time left at Hogwarts. The
Twin Falls are still Danton True Young, so I try to spend metre
with them every single day .'When asked
about their founding father 's campaign, Samantha said,
'I want him to win. He 's good at his job .'
lindy merely shrugged, 'It would be cool off if he
win, but he 'll still just be Dad to us .'

The home of Chester A. Arthur and molly Weasley is not
only open to Weasleys at Christmas time. This
twelvemonth they were joined by a friend of Albus Potter
and Rose Weasley, 14. Amanda tagger, also 14, is
a fourth year student at Hogwarts. tagger is no
stranger to political family unit since her uncle
is Michael Smythe, Prime diplomatic minister of Great
Britain .'I think it is just wonderful that
the flush Minister 's niece is a witch ,'Hotspur
said. 'We are always trying to promote a
healthy relationship with the Muggle Ministry
and this will only assist .'

Before posing for the exposure found on pages
20 and 21, the Weasley family unit first donned
their Weasley jumpers. Each member of the kinsperson
receives one of these jumpers for Noel
every yr. The traditional jump shot are knitted
by mollie Weasley .'I 'm not sure how it started,
really ,'mollie said, when asked about the origin
of the jumper ,'I suppose it was when Bill and
Charlie were short, before Percy was born. I
wanted to knit them matching jump shot and they
outgrew them by the following year, so I made
new ones. Then when Percy was born he needed one
so it soon grew into a yearly matter .'

If I had to choose one parole to describe the Weasley
family, I would opt 'laid-back .'Spending a
Christmas Eve with this phratry, you would never
think that they were celebrated for their efforts in
the war against Voldemort. They are just so normal.
Even Harry thrower, Head Auror, is just your
norm father. He spends Christmas Eve joking
around with his brothers-in-law and playing plot
with his minor, nieces, and nephews. I asked
him what a typical Yule day is like in the
Weasley house and he responded with, 'Quidditch.
We live for Quidditch. No topic the weather condition we
get out there every Christmas and play a lucifer or
two. Then we 'll fall inside and have dinner, all
of us together. It 's simple, but perfect .'

There you have it. Christmastide with the Weasleys
summed up in one sentence by none other than Harry
thrower himself. I thoroughly enjoyed spending
Christmastime Eve with Hotspur Weasley and his entire
folk. following fourth dimension I audience him, I really must
ask for his mother 's sheepman 's pie recipe. It
truly is wonderful.

"Really ?"Albus asked after handing the magazine to Lily."After all that ? She interviewed half the family and only quoted a few of us ?"

"I 'm guessing the relaxation could n't really be used for the character of article she was going for,"James pointed out."Notice how she only included pig out Samantha and Lindy said."

"And she made it seem like the photographer just happened to convey video of us playing plot with Uncle Hotspur,"Albus said."All of that was staged."

"That 's news media,"Ginny said."Not unspoiled journalism, mind you, but it is fairly common practice."

"I guess it could have been forged,"Albus said.

"Yes, it could have been,"Ginny agreed."I think we 're all just grateful she did n't delay for Dec 25 dinner."

James laughed."I wonder how she would 've spun that. I 'm dumbfound no one 's figured out that Uncle Walker Percy does n't really like that Empire State of the South plays Quidditch."

"Keep your mouth shut about that, James,"Ginny said quietly.

"Anyone with half a encephalon could see it,"James muttered.

Albus said zip. He still was n't completely certainly that saying cipher about Laurentis figuring that out was the right thing to do. But he could n't exactly say anything, not when all his cousins and lustrelessness had agreed not to.

"James,"Ginny said."sufficiency. And I suggest you use the difference of your geological fault to hit the books for those O.W.L.s. June is a lot sooner than you think."

James certainly did a good job of pretending to meditate for the remainder of the vacation, while shut up in his room for his punishment. Albus noticed that while he always had a Holy Writ cracked open nearby, to seize when one of their parents walked into the room, it was always the same Holy Writ, opened to the like varlet. Albus was amazed neither of his parents realized that, but he supposed both of them had their mind on Sir Henry Percy 's election. Albus finished all his homework before the weekend, leaving him with two blissful days of doing zippo. On Saturday he, along with his parents, James, and Lily, visited Kaden and his kinfolk for a tardily Christmas and New yr 's festivity. Albus was relieved that Kaden 's grandparents were n't there.

Mon arrived and it was fourth dimension to go back to Hogwarts. Albus was quite felicitous about this because he had grown bored of staying at menage and doing zero and was sick of being in such confining quarters with James and Lily. At to the lowest degree in Gryffindor towboat they kept to their own groups of friends. But mostly, Albus wanted to get Amanda 's payoff on the conversation they overheard at the diplomatic minister 's Mansion.

"Everyone 's staring at me,"Amanda said as she entered the compartment Albus, Rose, lustrelessness, John, and Kaden were occupying."Took me ages to see you, just because people kept wanting to talk to me. It 's that stupid magazine clause. Now everyone knows I 'm the Prime Minister 's niece."

"It was bound to chance sooner or later,"pink wine pointed out."But I 'm sorry. If I 'd known the reporter was going to verbalize about that, I would n't induce invited you for Christmas."

"No, it 's okay,"Amanda said as she sat down."I 'm glad I went. It 's just annoying. dead reckoning I know how it feels to be you lot."

"Except us,"St. John said as he gestured to himself and Kaden."We 're normal."

"You 're pattern, bathroom,"Amanda said."But Kaden 's Harry potter 's first cousin once removed or something."

"And that really makes me wonder how I got wrapped up in all this,"can said."My parents just are n't nearly as ambitious as yours all are."

"How was that party, by the way ?"Amanda asked.

"Mostly oil production,"Albus said."But we did roll up in a diminutive loo with my cousins Georgia, Bradley, and Cedric and overheard a conversation between Laurentis and her campaign manager."

"You what ?"John exclaimed."And you did n't believe that warranted an owl ?"

"We wanted to assure you in someone,"Albus said."The conversation was really weird."

"William Tell us !"Amanda said.

Albus explained what he overheard, with help from Matt, who had been able to try it a bit Thomas More clearly. King John and Kaden looked slightly uncomfortable when they finished, but Amanda did n't seem at all surprised or upset.

"That ca n't be good,"John said."What do you think she 's planning ?"

"That 's just it, I do n't lie with,"Albus said."And all my first cousin and matt agreed not to say anything-"

"They 're right, of course,"Amanda said."You 'd just stir up trouble. Your uncle has got to rivet on convincing masses he 's the right one for the job, not discrediting everything Laurentis says."

"But she 's going to try and convert everyone my dad 's a bad Auror,"Albus pointed out.

"Your dad is n't running for Minister,"Amanda said."And honestly, I do n't think she 's going to be able to win over all of wizarding U.K. that your dad 's incompetent by April."

"But what about the Georgia thing-"

"Albus,"Amanda said as she stared directly at him,"this is what politician do. Half the campaign is spent trying to convince people the opponent is bad for the job. As a great deal as it should just be spent on trying to convince masses they 're right-hand for the job, campaigner just do n't do that. trust me. My uncle 's on his back term. I know how these matter work."

"I guess,"Albus said. He felt slightly better about it, now that he had Amanda 's belief, but he still felt restless."Something is going to materialize at the Azkaban public debate, though. She wanted her campaign manager to dig something up."

"Worst case scenario, she figures out that your uncle Walker Percy does n't really approve of Georgia 's Quidditch career,"Amanda said."Then he 'll give an audience and say that at first he was n't because he was worried about her future but then he saw her swordplay and now he realizes how skilful she is and blah, blah, blah. It 'll be fixed."

"She 's flop, Albus,"Rose said. The others nodded.

"How do you experience all this ?"Albus asked."I mean, seriously."

"I 'm an fantabulous eavesdropper,"Amanda said with a grinning."And all without Extendable Ears."

"Amazing,"bathroom agreed.

"It 's elementary, really,"Amanda said."Be the kid in your family that goes unnoticed. My older sis is the drama king, so everything that happens to her, no matter how small, is a huge wad. My petty brother is a brat who demands constant tending. Me ? I 'm the quiet one. They 'll make whole conversations about clobber in straw man of me that they 'd never have in front of either my pal or sister."

Kaden laughed."Bet that changed when you found out you were a witch."

"At first, but then me being a crone became rule,"Amanda said.

Matt let out a low tin whistle."care I had that acquirement. I still ca n't even go into the Lapplander room as my parents without one of them asking me if I feel okay. Bit of an hyperbole, but still."

"I think my parents expend too very much of their puerility eavesdropping on people to apply me a decent chance at it,"Albus said."They know all the tricks."

"So do mine,"rosiness said."I swear my mum can sense an extendible Ear a mile away."

"I think I 'm too cheap,"John Lackland said.

"Saami,"Kaden agreed.

"So, would you consider me if I said I actually wanted to go to the Azkaban argumentation ?"John asked as he opened a box of Bertie Bott 's Every Flavor Beans.

rose wine burst out laughing."Really, John ?"

"Yes, really,"John said, popping a edible bean into his back talk."Butter, weird. If Laurentis is going to do something, I want to be right there to see it."

"Maybe you 'll get favorable and you 'll get picked,"Amanda said."I hope I get picked for one."

"I bet they 'll let you go to all of them now, being the flower Minister's niece and all,"John said.

"Not necessarily,"Amanda said.

"You can always carry my dapple, toilet,"lustrelessness said as he got up to slip a fistful of John 's Bertie Bott 's."Full moon 's on Fri, so I wo n't be going."

"Maybe you can convince Madam Pomfrey, since it 's educational,"Kaden said.

lusterlessness popped a bean into his back talk and then promptly skewer it out."Ew, dirt. Does n't matter what dame Pomfrey says. Day after the full moon ? I 'll be asleep. You 'll just have to take notes and let me have sex what happens."

privy groaned."I 'll pass on your spot if I have to take notes."

"Someone 's going to have to remove notes either way,"Matt said."I 'll need them for the essay that Embry will assign."

"Do n't worry, I 'll claim notes,"pink wine told him.

"Thanks,"Matt replied."Now, who 's wants this edible bean ? It looks just the like dirt, but it could be chocolate."Matt held up a suspiciously brown bean.

"I 'll learn it !"John said. He took a tiny nibble, screwed up his face, and threw the rest of the bean back at Matt, hitting him feather on the frontal bone."Thanks, spouse, another dirt."

Albus laughed and took a handful of noggin. The remainder of the misstep was much more lighthearted than their conversation about the run tactics of Laurentis and Percy. They finished off John the Divine 's Bertie Bott 's, growing braver as the box emptied. Albus stopped after he got a nauseant flavored one, but enjoyed it immensely when Kaden ate one of the same flavour. The geartrain ride went quickly and soon they arrived in Hogsmeade place with Hogwarts, Albus 's second home, just a brusque go-cart ride away.


Sorry for the late update ! My full cousin got married on Friday so I was gone the completely weekend and did n't have got my reckoner with me. Thanks to my sister, Linda, who in my class, is just alike Amanda and can listen in on everyone. She gave me the idea for that. Thanks for all the lovely reviews !


"This term we will focus on how the starting time and second war against Voldemort shaped how the Ministry of legerdemain is organized today,"Professor Embry announced after the Bell rang for Tuesday 's politics class."This part of the class will overlap with your history of trick class quite a bit, although I 'd hazard a supposition that none of you pay attention in story of conjuring trick, not that I blame you. I never could appease awake in that class either.

"offset, we will guide a closer look at exactly how the Ministry was organized prior to Voldemort 's rise to power and why it was such a trouble,"Embry continued."contribution of the reason why Voldemort was able to lift to exponent as quickly as he did was because the Ministry was susceptible to a takeover. Since then, precautions have been taken to prevent a standardized site. Does anyone jazz the independent divergence between the Ministry before Voldemort and the Ministry now ?"

A few deal went up in the air, including Amanda 's. Albus knew the answer, but he did n't really require to raise his hand. He preferred listening during class.

"Yes, Miss tagger ?"

"The parson was n't elected,"Amanda said,"which is odd because the Muggle diplomatic minister is elected, sort of. It 's not like in the United States, but the world votes on which political party will be in power."

"Exactly,"Embry said."Prior to the reorganization of the Ministry of Magic in 1998, the pastor was appointed by the Wizengamot. Can anyone tell apart me why that is a job ?"

Amanda 's hand snap into the air once more. She was even faster than rose in this class.

"Miss Tagger ?"

"It was bad because the citizenry had no power. Only the Wizengamot had any mogul in the Ministry, because they were the unity who appointed the government minister, who then appointed all the other official. No one had any say in anything."

"Right again. Ten points to Gryffindor,"Embry said."The Wizengamot, prior to 1998, was a chemical group of very influential witches and wizards, mostly purebloods, who essentially ran the Ministry of conjuring trick. They also served as the judicial system. These Wiccan and wizard inherited their seats on the Wizengamot from family members because each influential class in the British people wizarding world once held a seat in the Wizengamot. The job with this are obvious because it meant that only purebloods and a select few half-bloods had any semblance of power."

Albus was scribbling furiously. He knew the bedrock of the political system just from overhearing his parents'conversations, but the inside information were bleary. Now that he was learning the gritty detail, he wondered why it took so long for the Ministry to be reorganized. It seemed like it was based solely on pedigree status and how much money someone had, which was n't right.

Embry continued to explain the old Ministry and the various superpower that each person or group of people in the Ministry had prior to Voldemort 's reign. By the end of the lecture Albus had just over a base of line, which was good because Embry had already set them an essay.

"Before you leave, I 'll announce who will be attending Sat 's debate,"Embry said after he finished lecturing."Like last clock time, Albus Potter, Rose Weasley, and Matt Eckerton will be able to give ear. The two Hufflepuffs who will be attending are Elaine Asterly and Yardbird Parker Wayland. The two Gryffindors are Amanda Tagger and Ethan Kesse. You will report to the Great manse at ten and delay for book of instructions from the prefects waiting by the door. Everyone else will be listening to the debate via wireless in the Transfiguration classroom. I expect an essay on which candidate you feel made their dot better by next socio-economic class. You are dismissed."

"I guess I wo n't get to go to all the debates after all,"Amanda said as they left the classroom.

"This one will be commodity, though,"rose wine said."You 're favourable they picked you for it."

"Wish I got picked,"St. John lamented.

"I 'm telling you, just go instead of me,"Matt insisted."William Tell them I 'm ill and you 're taking my spot."

"I really do n't reckon they 'll let-"

"Planning on being ill on Saturday, are you ?"

Albus and his friends stopped in the heart of the corridor, turning around to see Scorpio Malfoy behind them, his arms crossed across his bureau. He looked arrogant and vaguely annoyed as common, but there was something else there. He looked slightly upset and for some grounds, that unnerved Albus.

"contribute it a rest, Malfoy,"St. John said, stepping closer to the Slytherin."We get that you know. We 've gotten over it."

Scorpius stepped closer, ignoring John and turning to Matt."How do you get into the Shrieking Shack ?"he demanded.

lusterlessness 's cheek paled. John grabbed hold of Scorpio 's robe and dragged him into a nearby classroom. John had at least four inches on Malfoy, so it did n't seem difficult. Albus and the others followed, Rose shutting and locking the threshold behind them.

"Why do you desire to know about the shriek Shack ?"whoremonger asked as he let go of Scorpius.

"None of your business,"Scorpio said, glancing at the put away door. He slowly drew his wand.

John drew his own wand."Put your wand away. And it 's his business which makes it all of our business."John gestured to flatness, who had sat down on one of the desks.

"There 's five of you. Like snake pit I 'm putting my wand away. So I am right, he does transform in the Shrieking hutch,"Scorpius said with a sly smiling. The flavor of sorrowfulness Albus thought he 'd seen was gone ; maybe he 'd imagined it.

"John !"Matt exclaimed."Now look what you 've done !"

"Sorry,"St. John said."I did n't have in mind to-"

"Never mind,"Matt said, getting up from the desk and walking over to John and Scorpio."How did you figure it out ?"

"Where else could you transform safely ?"Scorpio asked."I did a little research in the depository library and that was built the summer before Remus Lupin started at Hogwarts and everyone knows he was a wolfman. No one ever lived in it, but people reported discover weird noises from it. Everyone said it was ghosts, but they went strangely quiet seven year later, only to reappear four and a half years ago, when we started at Hogwarts. Quite a concurrence, I thought. And now I see that I 'm right."

Albus was kind of shocked Scorpius had done all that research and put everything together. Perhaps he was smarter than Albus and his friends gave him cite for.

"Well, you ca n't tell anyone, just like you ca n't tell anyone I 'm a werewolf,"mat said."Kendrick would rout out you."

"I do n't care that it 's where you metamorphose,"Scorpius said."The distributor point is that it 's empty except for one Night of the calendar month. How do you get in ?"

"I 'm not telling,"matt said.

"Fine, I 'll calculate it out myself,"Scorpius said, pointing his wand at the threshold. The lock clicked and he strolled over to the door, opened it, and left.

"That was weird,"Albus said as soon as Scorpius was gone.

"Yeah,"lusterlessness said, sitting down on the closest desk."Why does he want to get in the screeching shack ?"

"Clearly he needs somewhere that 's vacate, but the interrogation is what is he planning on doing ?"Rose asked."And did anyone else notice that he seemed a bit sad in the corridor ?"

"I thought I 'd imagined that,"Albus said.

"You did n't. He 's definitely upset about something,"rosiness said.

Matt groaned."He better not actually enter out how to get in there."

"If he does, he would n't be dumb enough to go in there during a broad moonlight,"Albus pointed out.

"Yeah, but still. That 's my place,"mat muttered."I need a nap. I think I 'm going to skitter dinner and just go back to Gryffindor. I 'll see you later."

lustrelessness hopped off the desk and left the way. Albus sighed. The hold up thing he wanted, amidst all of the election stuff and his family unit 's play, was another publication with Scorpius Malfoy, but it looked like things were heading in that direction.
***


The play along aurora when Albus and his friends entered the Great Hall for breakfast the scholar already eating were much louder than normal. Albus turned to Rose, who shrugged in disarray, as they walked inside. Everyone in the room, students and teacher alike, were talking ominously. Copies of the Prophet were exchanging hands faster than the Quaffle during a Gryffindor/Slytherin lucifer.

"Albus !"James shouted once they reached the Gryffindor mesa."Read this. There 's been a break-out at Azkaban."

"Again ?"Albus exclaimed, hurrying over to where King James I was sitting. He took the paper and his friends crowded around him.

"Not like finis time,"James said darkly."High-profile captive and more of them. Death eater. There has n't been a break-out like this in eld. Not since our parents were our age."

Albus 's affection began to lb as he unfolded the report. There it was, right on the front page. A big exposure montage of five hoi polloi, all gaunt and evil-looking, was right in the middle, with the words 'Five captive Break Out of Azkaban'above them and an article below them. Albus 's tummy churned when he recognized the movie of the middle prisoner. It was Quinton Willinson. His eyes drifted to the article so he could figure out who the others were.

Early this morn Azkaban official
reported that five high security prisoners
escaped late last-place night. It is unreadable how
they managed to do so. The prisoner, all
imprisoned for felonies, should be regarded
as dangerous and should not be approached.

Four of the five prisoner have been in
Azkaban since 1998, having been imprisoned
for war crimes. They are Alecto Carrow,
Amycus Carrow, Fenrir Greyback, and Dolores
Umbridge. All but Umbridge are proven expiry
Eaters. The fifth prisoner, Quinton Willinson,
has been in and out of prison since 2018,
having escaped and been recaptured just survive
year.

'Finding and recapturing these mortal is
our top antecedence ,'Head Auror, Harry Potter,
said to newsperson early this cockcrow. Minister
candidate and Head Azkaban official, Patricia
Laurentis, refused to comment on the break-out.
The Auror department has asked all those with
tips to report them to the Ministry via owl
immediately.

Albus sat stunned after reading the clause. Three dying Eaters, Dolores Umbridge, and Quinton Willinson had escaped from Azkaban. How did that pass off ? How did five richly security department prisoner just escape with no one stopping them ? It did n't pretend sensory faculty.

"This is not going to cause Laurentis look adept,"Amanda said quietly.

"Forget Laurentis, this is bad,"Albus said."Very bad. Umbridge is evil, twisted evil. My dad 's got mark on his hired hand from what she did to him when she was a teacher here. And the Carrows, they were teachers, too. They taught night humanistic discipline. Not defense, but actual nighttime liberal arts, and how to rack Muggles. Greyback-"

"knot bites people, for fun,"Matt said, his grimace pallid white-hot."He 's the one who bit teddy 's dad."

"The four of them,"Albus began,"the four of them make Quinton Willinson look like a unicorn."

"That 's the weird affair,"Rose said."The others are in prison for life for war crimes. Willinson will be in there for a while, but he 'll get parole eventually and the only understanding he 's a high security captive is because he escaped before. So why did he erupt out with the others ? Why did they let him in on it ? They 're up to something."

Albus had n't even thought of that. Why was Quinton Willinson now connected with war crook who had been in prison since before he was born ? It did n't progress to sentiency. Albus thought about it throughout all his classes that day, but did n't come up with any answers.

It was obvious that the Azkaban break-out had unnerved the integral castle. Professors spoke in low rustle when they thought scholar were n't around, students no longer wandered the castle by themselves, and even Scorpius Malfoy seemed a bit more subdued during dueling exercise on Thursday.

All five prisoners still remained at large on Fri, when Ministry functionary began arriving for the argumentation. Laurentis still had yet to annotate on the break-out, which struck Albus as strange. Azkaban was her dominion and yet she said nothing on the field of study.

"Is it just me or are there even Thomas More reporter here than there were cobbler's last time ?"Albus asked.

"It 's not just you,"Amanda said.

Albus, lusterlessness, Saint John, and Amanda were walking back to the castle from guardianship of Magical tool. It was slack going since the full moon was that night and matt was exhausted, but luckily the weather was unseasonably warm for January. They 'd just been passed by a radical of travel rapidly looking newsperson coming up from Hogsmeade.

"There 's probably more because of the break-out,"lusterlessness said."Laurentis is going to take in to finally say something about it tomorrow since the issue is Azkaban."

"doe anyone else think it 's weird that there was a break-out three daylight before the Azkaban debate ?"Albus asked.

"I thought of that, too,"Amanda said."Very eldritch coincidence."

"Well, it 'll be honorable for your uncle,"lavatory said."Laurentis is going to look like an idiot, not being able to keep open five high security measures prisoners in Azkaban."

Albus nodded. He supposed that was one good thing that came from three Death eater escaping from Azkaban, not that there was anything good about it.

"I 'm skipping good luck charm,"Matt said through a yawn."And ancient Runes."

"I 'm surprised you did n't skip fear of Magical animate being,"John Lackland said.

Matt shrugged."I felt okay earlier, probably because of the nap I took in History of Magic."

Saint John laughed."I felt much better after my nap in story of Magic, too."

"Very funny,"Matt said as they reached the rook.

Albus found it increasingly difficult to centre on anything for the rest of the day. By the clock time he went to Ancient rune he was unable to think about anything besides the break-out and the fact that destruction Eaters were now roaming free. Deep down he knew he was perfectly secure at Hogwarts, but it was still troubling.

professor Kendrick welcomed the Ministry officials to Hogwarts at dinner that night and Albus thought back to the last debate, when Hogwarts had housed the Ministry officials. He was very happy that this time he would n't be confessing to a prank to his uncle in the Gryffindor common elbow room. Neither John Lackland or Kaden had done their retaliation japery to the Slytherins yet and Albus variety of hoped they would n't.

After a spasmodic sleep Albus woke early on Saturday morning and contemplated visiting lustrelessness before everyone else woke up, but figured that matte would be asleep and thus it would be senseless to chit-chat. He 'd visit with everyone else later, after the debate. They 'd have plenty of fourth dimension sine there was n't going to be a motion and answer session this clip.

At ten o'clock Albus, blush wine, and Amanda stood in line in social movement of the Great Hall, waiting to be let inside. John had decided not to bother asking if he could convey matte 's place, since he did n't want to draw any tending to the fact that lustrelessness was not there.

"Albus,"Rose whispered, poking him in the side."Look. Malfoy 's here."

Albus glanced over to where Rose was pointing and saw that Scorpius was in fact waiting in line. He looked sullen and perturbation again and Albus wished he knew why. It was unearthly seeing Malfoy, the usually self-important son of a bitch, upset.

"guesswork he won the Slytherin spot,"Albus said.

The doors to the Great lobby opened and Albus and blush wine said au revoir to Amanda before they were lead to the strawman of the room by a Slytherin prefect. They were seated in the Saami row they were before, along with the rest of their Hogwarts cousins.

The Great lobby slowly filled up over the next half hour. The rest of Albus 's full cousin, aunt, and uncles arrived, taking patch in the front line few rows. Albus caught Empire State of the South 's eye as she took her seat in the row on the opposite slope of the room from him and she gave him a tenuous grin.

Albus wondered if Laurentis 's campaign manager had actually found anything on Uncle Percy and whether she would say anything during the debate. With the break-out, he hoped she 'd been too officious to dig up much turd or even think about exposing anything.

Albus turned to the front of the way and watched a very short man accompany professor Kendrick to the moderator 's podium. He was dressed in Ministry blue robe and had very little hair on his head.

"Attention, please !"Kendrick shouted. The crowd quieted."Thank you. I 'd like to receive all of you to Hogwarts and introduce our moderator for this morning. Victor Farleigh, top dog of the section of Magical Transportation."

"Thank you, prof,"the short, balding man said."I 'd now like to introduce our nominee, although I am sure you all know them. Mr. Percy Weasley and Ms. Patricia Laurentis."

Hotspur and Laurentis walked into the elbow room from one of the hall and took their office at each of the pulpit. Percy looked as positive as always and Laurentis, despite the scandal of the break-out, looked poised and excited.

"Today we will be debating the juridic system, specifically Azkaban prison,"Farleigh announced."The common convention apply. Five minute arguments, two minute rebuttals."

Laurentis inched closer to her pulpit, as if she was readying herself to pounce on whatever Percy said. Percy remained tranquilize and collected, continuing to diddle the role of the cool down politician.

"Mr. Weasley, you will respond first. Do you feel that the judicial system as a unit is reasonable to both the accused and victim of crimes ? Are the sentences handed out by the Wizengamot funfair ?"

"I believe everyone is able to get a middling trial run by the Wizengamot,"Percy began."I have reviewed many cases, and while I am not nor do I dissemble to be a solicitor, and I feel that the majority of the sentences handed out by the Wizengamot fit the offense. However, there is always a chance that a individual guilty of a offense will go relieve, as there is an equate chance that someone will be wrongfully imprisoned. The judicial system works hard to make sure this happens as infrequently as possible and corrects wrongs when they do occur."

"Ms. Laurentis ?"

"I disagree with my adversary,"Laurentis said."most of the condemnation handed out by the Wizengamot are not rough enough. Ever since the defeat of Voldemort prison sentences have grown shorter, with the elision of those imprisoned for war criminal offence. And one guilty person who roams free is too many. If I am elected rector I will work hard to secure that no shamed masses get off. captive belong in Azkaban and the Wizengamot is far too lenient."

"Your rebuttal, Mr. Weasley."

"While a goal of not having any guilty hoi polloi get set free is worthy, it is unrealistic,"Hotspur said."The Wizengamot is composed of beldam and whiz like you and me. They are not any more powerful than we are and do not possess the ability to recognise for sure that the accused are guilty. mistake happen and while we should work to minimize them, it is very unrealistic to say that we can get rid of them completely. Ms. Laurentis is offering false hope."

"I am not offering false Leslie Townes Hope,"Laurentis said."There are while, potions, ways to recover out if people are shamed that the Wizengamot does not use. If I am elected government minister I will approve use of these and they will wait on the Wizengamot in ensuring that no hangdog felon are set free."

Albus agreed with his uncle. There was no potential way Laurentis could warrant that all criminals would be imprisoned.

"Next doubt,"Farleigh said."Ms. Laurentis, you will go first. Do you feel the watchword organization is effective ?"

Laurentis gave a wry smile before beginning."very much like the Wizengamot, the watchword organisation is too indulgent. I have seen criminals shamed of K thievery get paroled after a mere two days in prison. The statistics are realize, nearly of these criminals who are paroled early on in their prison term wind up back in Azkaban within a year, whether for breaking the rules of their parole or committing another crime. As headway of Azkaban, I am able-bodied to give my input of whether a prisoner is paroled or not, but in the end it is up to the Wizengamot."

"Mr. Weasley."

"As my opponent has said, many criminals are paroled too quickly. However, I do not think that leaving them in Azkaban thirster is the solution. If I am elected I will create and support a better system for integrating criminals back into society. Muggles have seen achiever with halfway sign of the zodiac and I feel we should try that in wizarding society."

"Halfway mansion ?"Laurentis said with raised eyebrow."An intriguing idea. However, Mr. Weasley lacks the experience that I have with dealing with prisoners. Most are not fit for society and many never will be. Even with halfway household they will scent up back in Azkaban. Why spend the money on trying to rehabilitate when it wo n't work ?"

"It 's about giving people a chance,"Percy said."Not everyone is a lost campaign and should be written off so quickly. Many prisoners have made a few bad pick as a solvent of bad childhood and a bit of rehabilitation will set them straight."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Farleigh said."succeeding question. Is Azkaban an earmark berth to home prisoners ? Is the facility still doing its job ?"

Percy shifted a bit before answering."Azkaban is an appropriate adeptness for gamy security prisoners, but I have always felt that we need a less intimidating building to house our lower certificate captive. Right now all felon, from those who committed petty theft or skipped bail to those who have murdered people, are all housed in Azkaban. I have been to Azkaban. Despite the fact that it is no longer in ascendence of the dementors it is still a terrifying and heights security department place. It also requires a lot of money for its upkeep. If we were to establish a smaller building located on the mainland to business firm lower security prisoner, we would be able to fall spending at Azkaban itself. We could then increase security measure at Azkaban without wasting effort and money on less dangerous criminals."

"Ms. Laurentis."

"How is building another facility going to write money ?"Laurentis asked."Once again you show your ignorance in the judicial organisation and Azkaban. I believe that Azkaban is doing its job perfectly well. I am in charge of the prison, including its upkeep and it is in perfect condition. We are not spending an usurious sum of money on the place. Further, I do not believe that less unsafe criminals deserve a miserable security prison. They are all criminals and if they did not care to be in Azkaban, they should not have committed a crime."

"Maintaining Azkaban is expensive,"Percy said."It is also extremely unmanageable to hire guard because of its location and general tactile property of the position, not to mention the serious criminals. If we housed less dangerous criminals in another building, it would be well-heeled to receive safeguard to work there. We could then use the guards willing to ward senior high school surety prisoner only to ward high security prisoners. We would no longer take to scourge them on lower security department prisoners."

"But we will still possess to assert Azkaban, and then another edifice,"Laurentis pointed out."It just makes far more sensory faculty to go along all criminals in one position and an island is a serious place to do that-"

"Obviously not that serious, given the escape-"

"Mr. Weasley,"Farleigh interrupted."You are speaking out of turn. It is fourth dimension to proceed on to the future doubt. In light of the Holocene Azkaban break-out, what do you feel needs to be done to ensure it does not hap again ?"

Laurentis gazed out over the crowd. Albus felt like she was looking directly at him, but assumed she just had that ability to appear to be looking every person in the eye at once. She then turned to Hotspur and gave him one of those creepy smiles that seemed to have become her signature seventh cranial nerve face. Albus turned to blush wine, who raised her eyebrows and shrugged.

"I am well mindful that I have remained tranquillize on the subject field of the break-out,"Laurentis began,"and I have done that on purpose. I see that all of the reporter in the back have their Quik-Quotes calamus poised and ready to indite down my every word on this subject. Surely you 're all hoping to be the commencement to publish my thoughts.

"You 're probably all assuming I will deny that there is anything damage with the security at the prison and that the break-out was a mere good fortune and it wo n't happen again. I am not going to say either. There is a problem and if we do not fix it, it will happen again. Every single one of those escaped prisoners is highly serious and if we do not recapture them soon, who knows what will happen. When they are captured, we will need to let better surety in place. After all, what is more of import that the safety device of our children ? With those five captive roaming release, every person in this room, in this castle, in this res publica is in danger.

"Fortunately, I have a root. It is a controversial solution, but I feel we need to go to extremes to protect our crime syndicate, especially our small fry. That is why if elected diplomatic minister, the 1st thing I will do is reinstate the dementors as Azkaban guards."


Sorry about the cliff hanger ! I did n't want to do it but the chapter was twice as long as they normally are and there really was n't a good place to split up it. Thanks for all the lovely critical review !


Albus let out a gasp, as did everyone else in the room. The Great antechamber was suddenly in chaos. Everyone was whispering and a few people had let out battle cry of outrage or turmoil. Albus could practically hear the reporters'quills scratching across rolls of parchment, and Laurentis was grinning again. Percy stood behind his rostrum, his mouth seeming to be frozen in a wide, gaping spot. Farleigh was attempting to gain parliamentary law, and failing.

"That is literally mad !"rose exclaimed."Reinstate the dementors ? Is she mad ? Is she throwing the election ?"

"I do n't know,"Albus said."But she must be mad. Will people actually approve of this ? Will she even be able to do it ?"

pink wine nodded."Whoever she gets to supplant herself as Head of Azkaban will surely desire the dementors back, too. Then she 'll O.K. it as minister and it 'll pass."

"But it would be stupid to lend them back,"Albus said.

"It would,"Rose agreed."They 're dangerous and their loyalty modification so easily. But to be honest, I 'm not sure everyone will feel that way. Not with those captive on the loose."

"repose, quiet !"Professor Kendrick shouted. The crowd finally settled down.

"Mr. Weasley, it is your turn to speak,"Farleigh said exasperatingly.

Percy shook his head to retrieve his calmness. He 'd recede his aplomb, calm, and collected politician feeling and now he looked more like he did after arguing with Georgia about her Quidditch career.

"wellspring, I, er, do not believe that dementors are the answer to the surety problem in Azkaban,"Percy said."What we need are more skilled guards in rush of high surety prisoners as well as a revamp of the spells and bewitchment currently keeping prisoners inside. It will also help to go over the organization of the safeguard schedule because at the time of the escape, only three guard were maintaining that theatrical role of the prison. That was surely an oversight that could experience been prevented."

"human being error,"Laurentis said."It happens and it will happen again. Can we really risk the lifespan of our children in the fortune that another error will occur ? Dementors were proven safeguard who did not allow prisoners to fly the coop. During their sovereignty in Azkaban, before their allegiance changed, only one person managed to escape. Since their removal we have had legion escapes."

"Clear evidence that we need to revamp prison house protection,"Percy said."But dementors are not the result. They are dangerous fauna and as you said, their loyalty changed. What 's to say that wo n't happen again if, God forbid, another Voldemort were to rise to business leader ? If anyone offered those dementors a better spate than we did they 'd suffer a entirely prison of severe crook at their disposal to do their bidding. It 's not worth the risk."

"Another Voldemort is not going to rise to power,"Laurentis said with a laughter."We have learned from our history and it wo n't bump again."

"You ca n't guarantee that,"Percy said."Even if there is a very small chance of it happening, it is not worth risking having dementors guard Azkaban."

"Mr. Weasley, Ms. Laurentis,"Farleigh said."It is sentence to move on-"

"You are talking about a hypothetical !"Laurentis exclaimed, throwing her manus up in the air."I am talking about what is happening now ! Five severe criminals have escaped, four of whom were on Voldemort 's position during the war, and are out there, wreaking havoc as we speak. If the dementors were guarding Azkaban this never would suffer happened."

"Now look who 's talking hypotheticals !"Percy shouted back, ignoring Farleigh 's vain attempts to get both prospect to stop talking."For all we know they would 've escaped anyway !"

Laurentis let out a deep laugh."Five prisoner flight when the dementors are allied with the Ministry ? That 's comic. Only one person was capable to do that and it was because he was an Animagus. None of the prisoners are Animagi. We test for that before admitting anyone to the prison."

"Be that as it may, dementors are dangerous magical wight. Not to mention the ethics of subjecting captive to their effects-"

"Prisoners have no rights,"Laurentis said."They give up their right field when they commit crimes-"

"Basic human right hand !"Percy exclaimed."There are canonic human being rightfulness that everyone deserves ! lecture about learning from our history. chronicle tells us what happens when someone believes they are above others. Or do you not think the reign of Voldemort ?"

"I lost my female parent to that war !"Laurentis said."Do n't you tell me that I do n't commend it."

Albus was on the border of his can. His uncle was so red in the typeface that he was starting to turn purple and resemble Kaden 's grandpa. Laurentis 's hair was breaking exempt from its tight bun and there was a vein popping out in her brow. Farleigh was still trying to get both candidate to kibosh talking and failing miserably, while every early person in the Great Hall sat completely still, staring at Sir Henry Percy and Laurentis.

"secretiveness !"professor Kendrick shouted in a magically amplified voice.

Both Percy and Laurentis immediately quieted. The vein on Laurentis 's forehead continued to pulse, and Percy still looked like an overripe tomato.

"I think we 've run out of time,"Farleigh said, in a voice barely more than a squeak."Thank you all for coming."

"scholarly person, please return to your common room,"Kendrick announced."luncheon will be in an 60 minutes. As a reminder, there is no question and answer session today."

The whispering rose up immediately after Kendrick stopped speaking and since everyone was whispering the noise level rose very high. Albus, Rose, and Amanda joined the queue of people ambling to leave the Great Hall, and without even talking about it, went immediately to the Marauder 's Den, where they found John and Kaden.

"What the bloody inferno is she trying to do ?"John asked as soon as Albus shut the door.

"She 's lost her nous !"rose shouted as she began pacing around the elbow room."She has legitimately lost her brain. That 's the only explanation."

"Well there 's no way she 'll win now,"Albus pointed out."Dementors ?"

"It 's a bit convenient, do n't you think ?"Rose asked."This break-out happens and then she announces she wants the dementors back ? It did n't vocalize like a plan she 'd just come up with."

"We 've got to find out if she 's tried to get them back before,"Albus said."If she has it 'll be in the oracle tomorrow."

"Dementors ..."Kaden murmured."They 're what sucked all the happiness out of us when we were in Commonwealth of Australia concluding twelvemonth, right ?"

Albus nodded."They 're awful creatures."

"And they used to guard the prison ?"Amanda asked incredulously."That 's just wrong."

"It is,"blush wine said darkly."That 's why after Voldemort they stopped using them as guards. That and all the dementors changed allegiance and let dying Eaters escape."

"Would they even come back, though ?"Kaden asked."I mean, if they switched dedication so easily ...."

"They 'll go wherever they 're offered the most homo to feed off of."Rose shuddered."Voldemort offered them far more than even Azkaban could offer. But right now they do n't have a good source. They just travel around, feeding. They 'll guard if given the opportunity."

"Should n't hoi polloi be against it ?"Amanda asked."It 's so ethically wrong."

"That 's why it was dumb of her to announce it,"Albus pointed out.

"She would n't announce anything if she did n't think it would get her suffrage,"Rose said."Most mass our parents'age and older, who lost loved single in the war, will have absolutely no sympathy for dying eater and would n't worry if the dementors were brought back, especially if Laurentis could then insure no one would escape."

Albus had n't thought of that and apparently no one else did, either, because the elbow room grew quiet. Albus sank onto one of the couches and started counting the number of Bertie Bott 's Every-Flavor Beans that were scattered on the floor. He got to twenty-three before anyone said anything.

"I wonder what Malfoy thinks of all this,"John mused."Was n't his dad a destruction Eater ? So he should n't want the dementors back in Azkaban, but the way he was talking in the Three broom handle a while back made it seem like he 's very against your uncle."

"Of course he 's against my uncle,"Albus said."His whole crime syndicate disapproval my whole household and it goes the other way, too. But his dad was never found guilty of his offense so he never did sentence in Azkaban."

"Surely his dad 's got champion there,"John said.

Albus shrugged."Probably."To be honest, he did n't really care what Malfoy thought about Laurentis and Uncle Harry Hotspur.

"We should go to tiffin and then visit mat,"Rose said."Catch him up on all this."

Albus had completely forgotten that matt was still in the hospital wing, in the midst of Laurentis 's announcement. He felt vaguely guilty about it, but at least rose had remembered.

Everyone gathered for lunch in the Great Asaph Hall was talking about Laurentis 's desire to get back the dementors. Percy, Laurentis, and the Ministry functionary were still there, having lunch with the prof at the staff table, and all were deep in treatment. Albus would 've loved to be able to mind in on their conversations, but wearing the Invisibility Cloak in the crowded Great Hall was n't a good idea.

"wagerer get used to the idea of your dad being parson,"one of the seventh twelvemonth was saying to Bradley."No one 's going to vote for Laurentis now."

Tom Bradley muttered something under his breath that Albus could n't hear. Albus took a tooshie a few people down from his cousin and began to make a sandwich.

"She 's got my whole kinsperson 's balloting now,"one of the other seventh years said."Both of my grandparents were killed by Fenrir Johnny Reb. If the dementors will catch him and preserve him in there forever, it 'd relieve oneself all of us sleep better."

There were a few nods from other older scholar sitting nearby. Albus was slightly shocked. If this many bookman approved of her idea, a lot of adults probably did, too. And these were 7th years ; they could vote.

"Wait, the dementors find outlaw, too ?"Kaden asked."I thought that 's what Aurors did."

"Only the really awful escaped prisoner,"Albus said."My dad 's Godfather, Sirius, when he escaped, the dementors were given permission to have him the Dementor 's Kiss if they caught him."

"What 's the Dementor 's Kiss ?"Amanda asked.

Albus shuddered."It 's where they suck out someone 's soul."

"And they die ?"Amanda asked quietly.

Albus shook his head."No, they live without a soul. Everyone says it 's uncollectible than dying."

"And they were going to do that to Sirius ?"Kaden replied.

Albus nodded."He was the number one to escape Azkaban. He 's the one Laurentis was talking about and at the time everyone thought he murdered thirteen Muggles and gave my grandparents up to Voldemort."

"That 's absolutely ugly !"Amanda exclaimed. She turned to the few sixth and 7th years who had said they 'd vote for Laurentis."How can you wish that on soul ?"

"If your grandparents were murdered by Death feeder you would, too,"one of the girls snapped.

"Albus 's grandparents were murdered by Voldemort and he does n't want the dementors back at Azkaban,"Amanda pointed out.

"well, Voldemort 's dead,"the girl said."Maybe if Greyback were dead I 'd feel differently. But he 's not so I want the dementors back."

"I do n't think she 's going to lose as easily as we thought,"Amanda said quietly.

"Of course of action she 's not,"Rose said."This is probably better for suffrage than digging up grime on Uncle Percy."

"It 's absolutely barbaric,"Amanda said, shoving her plate forward."Sucking out someone 's soul ? And they just absorb your happy computer storage out ?"

"Yeah,"Albus answered, thinking back to the previous June. He shuddered."You 're forced to relive your worst memories."

"That 's all you can reckon about ?"Amanda asked."Just the bad ace ?"

Albus nodded."My dad said it makes you go mad after a while."

"Of course it does !"Amanda shouted."That 's just not right ! Are you lot done eating yet ? I ca n't sit here anymore."

Albus was surprise Amanda had had such a strong chemical reaction to the dementors, but he supposed coming from the Muggle world, where she had n't even recognize such creatures existed, it would be a bit of a electric shock. He was even more storm that she 'd nearly gotten into a shouting match with a seventh year over them, when she was normally so quiet.

"I 'm done,"Rose said.

"Me, too,"Albus said as he got up.

John and Kaden each grabbed the remaining halves of their sandwiches and followed the others out of the Great Hall. Amanda lead the way, stomping her feet a bit more forcefully than was necessary.

"It 's just wrong on so many levels !"she said as she led them to the Hospital flank."It 's torture, honestly. That 's what it is. Emotional torture. Ca n't they just be killed off or something ?"

"They do n't die,"rosiness said."They ca n't. They just form of ... exist. Once my mum gets discussion of this, well, she 's not going to stay quiet."

"And she should n't,"Amanda said."Can she stop Laurentis ?"

"Not if Laurentis is curate,"Rose answered."Right now Mum 's the Senior Assistant of Magical Law Enforcement, so if Laurentis tried to get this to pass now, my mum could help give up it. But Minister Hartwell would never put something like this through."

"They 're maculate brute,"Amanda continued."Having them sentry go anything or anyone is a terrible idea."

Albus decided now would not be a estimable time to tell Amanda that when his dad was a third base yr Hogwarts was guarded by dementors.

"A dementor went after my dad once,"Kaden announced as they continued to the Hospital Wing."Albus 's dad saved him with a Patronus. Then he nearly got expelled for doing minor magic in the presence of a Muggle."

"You 're kidding,"Amanda said."God, the Ministry really was screwed up when your parents were at Hogwarts. This is the sort of thing Embry should be using as examples."

"I doubt it 's a well-known fact,"Albus said."That the famous Harry Potter nearly got expelled."

"It 's a serious good example of unfairness,"Amanda said.

"You sound just like my mum,"Rose said."It 's creepy-crawly. Does n't she ?"

Albus agreed."You do vocalize just like her mum."

"Your mum has the right idea,"Amanda said as they reached the Hospital Wing.

Matt was the only patient in the Barbara Ward. The curtains were n't drawn around his bed and he was sitting up and eating a pipe bowl of soup, which was a good polarity. Madam Pomfrey was sitting at her desk, working on charts, and muttering to herself about something.

"Hey, how are you feeling ?"Albus asked when they got to his bed.

"fine,"Matt said."three cracked ribs and a lot of nasty undercut, but I 'm fine. Listen, I heard the debate. Madam Pomfrey had it on on the tuner. How insane is Laurentis ? ! You should cause heard lady Pomfrey ranting about her earlier."

"You 're not to repeat what you heard,"Madam Pomfrey said."But Albus and rose, you can say your uncle that he 's got my suffrage. Always thought he was a little pompous when he was at Hogwarts but at least he 's not dumb enough to employ dementors as safety device of Azkaban."

"Amanda 's on a rampage,"Albus said.

"It 's kind of funny,"John added.

"It is not funny !"Amanda exclaimed."It 's serious."

"It 's just that you 're so lull, but you got into it with that seventh year."

"I did not get into it with a seventh year !"Amanda shouted and turned to Matt."John 's exaggerating. She announced that she and her family were all going to vote for Laurentis because her grandparents were killed by Greyback and she wants to make sure he stays in prison."

lusterlessness toyed with his blanket and did n't meet Amanda 's eye.

"What ?"she asked."Do n't distinguish me you want the dementors in Azkaban."

"I do n't,"Matt said quickly."It 's not that. It 's the whole greyback affair, I can screen of see where she 's coming from. It 's got to be scarey, knowing he 's out there when he killed her grandparents .... I mean, I guess I 've always been sort of lucky. The feller who bit me is in prison house and has been since he bit me."

Albus had never heard matt talking about the werewolf who bit him, except for mentioning that he 's in prison.

"He gets out next year,"Matt said quietly."He can get paroled."

"Do you have intercourse much about him ?"Albus asked.

"Just his name and how old he was,"Matt said."My parents know a bit more but they 've never told me and I 've never asked."

"Is the Australian prison guarded by dementors ?"Amanda asked.

Matt shook his nous."No, and it never has been. And I do n't think prisons should be guarded by dementors. But grayback ... he 's scary. He 's worse than Silas Humphrey, that was the bloke who bit me. Humphrey 's flak on me, that was an accident. Greyback bit people on intention. He 'd sting citizenry and then raise them in his pack. That 's why he liked going for tiddler. shift 's dad ... Johnny Reb bit him and tried to get his parents to give him up. They did n't, of row, but a lot of parents did."

Albus swallowed hard. He had n't known that about Teddy 's dad and was n't even trusted if chemise knew that. Teddy 's dad 's parents died long before Teddy was born and Albus doubted his gran knew that.

"How 'd you find that out ?"Albus asked.

"When we first moved here Amy learned about Teddy 's dad when she was catching up on British story of conjuration. She told me all about him and how successful he wound up being just to pass water me find better. But then I decided to research other wolfman and found out about Greyback in one of my dad 's Word of God. It talked about his hale matter with biting kids. It never said teddy 's dad specifically was one of those kids but I figured he must 've been."

"That 's horrible,"Albus said quietly. The others nodded.

"He had a altogether pack of loup-garou to do his bid,"mat said."And now he 's out. What if he wants to do that again ?"

"Bite people and nominate a pack ?"Albus asked.

matt nodded."That or find people who 've already been bitten."

Albus saw where this was going now."He 's not going to find you. Hogwarts is safe."

"That 's what everyone always says, but the by few yr it really has n't. Remember last year ?"

"Technically we were n't in the castling when we got taken to Australia. We were in the Floo. So if we just stay on in the castling ..."Albus pointed out.

"It 's still not a warrant,"Matt said."I wonder how many people he bit last night."

Albus did n't answer. There was no way of knowing what Fenrir Greyback did during the full moonshine, just like there was no way to undertake that Hogwarts would be safety. All Albus and his booster could do was hope that it would be safe and that the run away death feeder would be recaptured soon. Albus still thought having dementors guard Azkaban was an absolutely unspeakable idea, but after listening to matt talk about Silas Humphrey and Fenrir Limnodromus griseus, he sort of understood why some people might want the dementors back at Azkaban and thus vote for Laurentis. She might even get elected just because of this. And that, when it came down to it, was what scared Albus the most.


A/N : No cliffhanger this time ! Thanks for all the wonderful recapitulation ! If you like predator era, please check out my unexampled novel, Between Here and Somewhere !


"I guess Laurentis has been trying to get the dementors reinstated in Azkaban for yr,"Albus said the following morning at breakfast, as he set down a copy of the Prophet.

The article on the argument had been a long one, taking up nearly the full front page. It featured a photograph of Percy and Laurentis arguing with each other, and Albus was capable to see his uncle 's expression turning steadily more over-embellished, despite the fact that the pic was in black and white. The clause that followed elaborated Laurentis 's apparently years-long campaign to land the dementors back. She had put the proffer up for vote four times and it was shot down by Minister Hartwell each fourth dimension.

"Of grade he shot it down,"Rose said after skimming the article."It 's a stupid idea. Oh, look, they 've quoted my mum. I 'll read it. 'Hermione Weasley, senior helper of Magical Law Enforcement, when asked about Laurentis 's proposal of marriage, said, 'It 's absolutely savage. Everybody, including prisoners, have basic human right wing that can not be broken. I thought we 'd moved past the days when the Ministry sanctioned worked up misuse of its prisoners and the thought that a cleaning woman running for Minister is proposing this is quite candidly horrifying. It is my sincere hope that the people of wizarding Britain will think long and hard about the effects this will get, not only on prisoners, but on our companionship as well, before they cast their vote in Apr. ''"

"Always one to verbalise her mind, your mum,"Albus said.

"I could n't agree more,"Amanda replied."Although if Laurentis wins I bet she gets sacked."

"She ca n't,"rosebush said."Her job is n't appointed solely by the Minister. If she were oral sex of the department, then yes, but she is n't head yet. It 's confusing."

"commodity,"Amanda said."We 'll take some sane the great unwashed in there if Laurentis is elected."

"What are you lot doing today ?"whoremonger asked, steering the conversation away from the election."Kaden and I are going to spend the day plotting our new prank."

"I do n't want to have a go at it,"Rose said, holding up her custody."I 'm probably going to go to the library."

"I 'll go with you,"Amanda said."I want to research dementors and their use in Azkaban."

"Quidditch recitation,"Albus replied."All day. We 've got to get ready for the match on Saturday against Ravenclaw. After the last match, we 've got to make for sure we we win by a decent amount of level if we 're going to putsch Slytherin 's property for the Cup."

"Oh yeah,"Kaden said."Whatever happened with that Olivia lady friend ? She had a huge crush on St. James the Apostle, did n't she ?"

Albus laughed."I 've no idea."

"She sent St. James a box of burnt umber for Christmas,"Cedric, who had been sitting next to Albus, whispered."But you did n't see that from me."

"I was there when he opened his presents,"Albus said.

"She gave them to him before we went home for the holiday,"Cedric explained."She hijacked our thestral carriage and twist up riding to the train with us."

"How awkward was that ?"Albus asked, still giggling.

"Very,"Cedric said as he glanced over his shoulder."She stared at him the all time."

"Creepy,"Albus said.

"Shh,"Cedric said."He 's coming over."

"I think I 'm going to go visit Matt before Quidditch practice,"Albus said."I 'll see you later ?"

"Sure,"rosiness said."You know where to get hold me."

"And us !"John announced."marauder 's Den. antic planning."

"I do n't want to be involved,"Albus said as he got up.

bathroom shrugged."suit of clothes yourself."

Albus hurried up to the hospital extension and managed to get inside without lady Pomfrey noticing, although the nursemaid would n't have minded him being there. But she was very preoccupied with two pupil who had somehow fused their entrust arms together. Matt was already arouse and much gay than he had been the old day, when talking about Greyback. He was pretty indisputable Madam Pomfrey was going to let him out that nighttime, so they agreed to meet in the piranha 's Den just before dinner party.

Quidditch practice went very well and Albus was fairly certain they would get Ravenclaw on Sat. No one mentioned the election or Laurentis 's wanting to work back the dementors, which was a sure sign that thing were getting back to normal at Hogwarts. Albus spent the rest of the day in the predator 's Den working on his homework with lustrelessness while trying to quash hearing any part of John and Kaden 's new prank.

The week went by quickly since Albus spent every moment he was n't in class on the Quidditch lurch. But the weather remained decent so it was gratifying. The merely day Albus was n't on the slant was Th, when he had dueling practice.

"When 's the next tournament ?"Amanda asked as she and Albus walked into the Transfiguration classroom, where they were were scheduled to praxis. heather mixture was there to supervise, sitting in a corner. A few of the team members were there already, including Malfoy.

"Weekend after this one,"Albus said."I think we 'll do well."Albus glanced over to Malfoy, expecting some sort of snarky comeback from him. But he was n't even paying attending. Instead he was hunched over a yearn piece of sheepskin."marvel what he 's doing ?"

Amanda shrugged."hold out bit homework ?"

Suddenly, Malfoy sat up straight and crumpled the man of parchment. He shoved it into his pocket and stood up, staring at Albus as he did so. He looked glum and averted his centre after only a few seconds.

"I do n't think that 's homework,"Albus said.

"Weird,"Amanda said.

"Very,"Albus agreed."Let 's get started ! I think we should practice session blocking."He took a sidelong glimpse at Malfoy, expecting him to barrack and claim that they already knew how to halt, but instead Malfoy just turned to the student near to him and began to do as Albus said. What was even unearthly was that the scholar he partnered with was a moment yr Hufflepuff. Albus blinked to make sure he was n't seeing thing and then began shooting go at Amanda while she blocked them.

The pattern session got stranger as the Night went on, in terms of Malfoy 's behaviour. Not once did he endorse shot what Albus said and he did n't say one word to anyone that was n't directly related to dueling. Heather raised her eyebrow at Albus on numerous affair since she had supervised Albus 's practices before and knew how a great deal Malfoy usually tried to be the captain. He ran out of the room as soon as the practice was over, looking vaguely upset, as he had at the disputation.

"That was the strangest thing ever,"Amanda said as she and Albus walked back to the Gryffindor common way."And I witnessed my brother attempt to brew a potion this past summer and drink it, thinking that it would turn him into a wizard."

Albus burst out laughing."Was he really disappointed that he did n't get a Hogwarts letter ?"

Amanda nodded."I never thought he would but did n't tell him that. But do you have any idea why Malfoy did n't fence with you tonight ?"

"I 've no thought,"Albus said."But I really hope he stays this way."

"I bet it had something to do with whatever he was reading when we walked in."

"I wonder what it was."

Amanda shrugged."No approximation, but I wish I did. It 's just so odd."

"Whatever it is, I hope it keeps him like this during next week 's tournament."

"Albus ! What if it 's something really dreadful ?"Amanda asked.

Albus had n't thought about that."Well, we do n't know that it is, so I do n't deliver to think about it."

"Albus, I doubt anything in force would wee-wee Malfoy shut up like that,"Amanda reasoned."I 'm just saying, it might be something awful."
***


Gryffindor 's propensity to encounter Quidditch during really bad conditions came up in wide-cut force on Sat, when the unseasonably tender temperatures decided to desolate Hogwarts. In its place were freezing cold temperatures and a howling play false storm that probably should hold resulted in the match being canceled. But since Hogwarts never canceled Quidditch, Albus was preparing himself for a pitiable match. He wished they could have prissy weather, like they had when they played Slytherin in November.

The last clip Albus had played in a storm this bad he 'd been in his second year and roll up in the infirmary wing with the flu afterward. He certainly did not desire a repetition of that so he was hoping that James would catch the canary sooner rather than later.

"Fred, this is crazy,"Ryan said as they stood in the threshold of the changing room, waiting for the mates to begin."There is literally no way to see the Snitch in this."

"There 's zippo I can do about it,"Fred snapped. Everyone could tell he was stressed about this equal, since they 'd lost to Slytherin."We have to play unless Kendrick calls it off."

Ryan was right. Albus stared out onto the pitch and all he saw was ashen. The C. P. Snow was swirling and blowing and Albus could n't state if more snow was actually falling or if it was all just getting blown around. But either way, finding a Snitch in it was going to be near impossible.

"I 'll catch it,"King James said confidently."Do n't worry."

"We 're not going to be able to learn the commentary,"Fred said."Just catch it as soon as you can. Do n't worry about catching it after we 're up a sealed number of points. We just need a win at this point."

There was a very dim, quiet roar of applause and Fred led the squad out onto the pitch. The balls were released and Albus flew up into the raging storm. Soon, he did n't know which way was up or down, let alone where the Quaffle was. After about ten minutes of meandering around the slant, not knowing where he was going, the Quaffle suddenly appeared. Albus caught it, but had no estimate where the finish posts were.

Albus flew straightaway ahead, hoping it was in the powerful commission, but instead of reaching the goal position, he reached the stands. Groaning, he turned and headed toward the goal mail. At least he now knew where they were. He managed to tally, mostly because Ravenclaw 's Keeper did n't see him.

The friction match continued in topsy-turvyness, with no one knowing where anyone else was. Albus did n't see a single Bludger the solid fourth dimension and assumed the Beaters were just trying to continue lead of them rather than trying to get them to hit the opposition team 's players. Fred had been right about the commentary ; Albus could n't listen a word of it.

It felt like he was playing a match by himself. The only other players he saw were the Ravenclaw Seeker, Fred, and broom. They had given up chasing as a team and instead, when one of them got the Quaffle, they flew it down to the finish posts as sound they could.

"Albus, Albus !"someone shouted.

Albus turned and squinted, but he could n't make out anyone flying near him.

"Albus !"

Albus continued flying in a band trying to figure out who it was. He did n't even recognize their voice, but it could get been distorted by the wind. Finally, he began to nominate out a build flying toward him. It was Heather.

"Albus !"she shouted once she reached him."The match has been canceled. We 're all to return to our common room right now."

Albus nodded, figuring that Kendrick finally came to his sensation. It was just impossible to play a good game of Quidditch in a storm like this.

When Albus and Scots heather finally reached the changing elbow room they found the rest of the team sitting in their wet Quidditch robes, their faces pale. Albus noticed that even Heather looked slightly afraid.

"What 's going on ?"Albus asked.

"You were flying so high school, you probably did n't hear,"Fred said as Albus sat down."The match was n't canceled because of the weather."

"But it 's so bad out there,"Albus said."That match was pointless."

"One of the Ravenclaw for the first time years,"Fred continued, ignoring Albus,"she was late to the equal and on her way down she saw-"Fred paused, swallowing hard."She saw Fenrir Rebel on the grounds."

"What ?"Albus exclaimed, suddenly feeling nauseating."But it 's so snowy. How could she possibly know for sure ?"

"She ca n't, of course of action,"Fred said."But she went running to Professor Longbottom as soon as she reached the pitch and told him. That 's when they canceled the match and sent everyone back to the castle."

As if he heard Fred citation his epithet, Professor Longbottom walked into the changing elbow room, looking scared himself."I 'm going to escort you all back to the uncouth elbow room. Wands out as we walk."

Albus drew his wand and followed the rest of his teammate out of the changing rooms. They were all quiet on the base on balls back to the castling since the violent storm was still raging. No one would have been able to find out anything anyone said, even if anyone felt like talking. Albus felt too ill to talk. The thought of Fenrir Greyback being loose was bad enough, after hearing what lustrelessness knew about him, but the thought process of him being here, on the Hogwarts grounds, was too awe-inspiring to even think about.

As they walked up to the castle and then up to Gryffindor tower Albus kept telling himself that it was fully possible that the Ravenclaw girl had n't seen Fenrir Greyback. She was probably just thinking about the escaped prisoners and imagined something. Albus had n't even been able to make out his own cousin when she 'd been calling his name in this violent storm. What were the chances of a first of all year being able to pick out Fenrir Greyback ?

But still ... what if it had been Calidris canutus ? He had to be somewhere, so why not Hogwarts ?

The coarse room was buzzing with chatter when the team entered a short while later. Albus avoided everyone, including his friends, until after he went up to his dormitory to take a shower bath. He was shivering and felt awful and did n't want to tattle to anyone until after he was in dry clothes.

To his surprisal his admirer were all gathered in his dormitory after he got out of the rain shower. Bilius and Ethan were n't there, and the threshold was shut.

"We ca n't go to the Marauder 's Den,"Matt explained."We 're not allowed to exit our park elbow room until further notice."

"Are they doing an probe ?"Albus asked as he sat down on his bed."And what exactly happened ? Fred only explained a trivial before Longbottom came to exact us back to the castle."

"It was weird,"blush wine said."No one really bed what was happening because it was so snowy and the hint was so loud. We could n't see the couple, so we were just standing there using a lot of heating spell and hoping affair would be over soon. But then we started hearing whisperings about greyback on the grounds. Then, probably two minute later, Kendrick magically amplified his interpreter and told us all that we 're to report back to our park rooms immediately and to take the air back with our wand out and in magnanimous chemical group.

"So then, even though Kendrick never said for sure, we knew that somebody had seen Greyback on the reason. It was so scarey. Eventually we found out that one of the Ravenclaw world-class eld thought she saw him on her way to the lucifer and told Professor Longbottom. But besides that we do n't know much. No one 's told us anything for certainly and we 've just been hanging out here and talking."

"But what 's he doing here ?"Kaden asked."And I thought there were Aurors guarding Hogwarts."

"It was planned,"lusterlessness said."Do n't you see ? That tempest out there is so bad that no one can see three feet in front of them and the nothingness is so loud no one can listen anything either. It was the perfect tense day for him to sneak onto the earth, and if that girl had n't seen him who knows what he would 've done."

"So you think she really saw him ?"Albus asked skeptically."You said it yourself, no one can see anything."

"For all we know he said something to her,"mat said."No one knows the fully tarradiddle yet."

"But why ?"Kaden asked."Seems really stupid to me. If he escaped he should be hiding out in the passel, not going to Hogwarts where there are Aurors."

"Remember what I said after he escaped ?"Matt asked quietly."This just confirms it. He 's going to try to create his own werewolf army again. He was insane before Azkaban ; imagine how crazy he is now. They do n't necessitate dementors in prison to fix people go insane."

"And you think-"

"That he came to try and fancy out how to best position himself to sting kids during the full moon ?"mat interrupted."Yeah, I do."

Albus shuddered."That 's sick."

"That 's what he does,"flatness said. He looked more concern than everyone else."But what I do n't get is why it seems like he 's trying for Hogwarts tike. death time he went for really young kids."

"But we do n't even recognise for sure enough that 's what he 's up to,"trick pointed out."I mean it makes signified, but we still do n't know."

"Still,"lustrelessness said."You have to promise me you wo n't go outside during the wide Moon. I do n't require any of you joining me in the Shack."

Gospel According to John looked sceptical."There 's other reasonableness why he could be here."

"Promise me,"matte repeated, staring directly at John."It 's not Worth the risk."

John shrugged."Yeah, I promise."Everyone else nodded.

"What about the rest of them ?"Amanda asked."Do you think they 're working together ?"

"I do n't know,"Albus began."I 'm sure the Carrows are together and Umbridge might be with them. But I doubt Willinson and Greyback are with them. The Carrows were Death eater, but Greyback was n't technically a Death Eater. Voldemort used him, but always thought he was scum because he 's a loup-garou. The Carrows probably agreed. And Willinson, he 's got no connecter, which is why I 'm still confused as to why he broke out with them."

"For all we know they left the door open and he followed,"John said with a laugh.

Amanda groaned."Everyone 's got their own cell in high security."

"Oh, yeah, I suppose you 're right,"John said.

"Two Death eater, a war criminal, a werewolf, and Willinson,"Albus said."It 's so random. Why them ?"

"phone like the start of a caper,"John said."Two demise Eaters, a war criminal, a werewolf, and Willinson walk into a pub ...."

lustrelessness groaned."Do n't even go there. I just really hope they catch him before the next full moon Sun Myung Moon. There was n't anything in the prophet about him biting anyone this stopping point full moon, but I do n't conceive he 'd go two moons without biting. And there 's no way he 'd go on Wolfsbane, even if he could get some."

"I wonder where the others are,"Rose mused."You think they 're just hiding out ?"

"They must be,"Albus said."There have n't been any sightings."

There was a knock on the doorway and then it opened. James walked inside and sat down on the end of Albus 's bed.

"Longbottom just came to talk to us,"he said."We 'll be allowed to impart the common way for dinner, but not before that."

"Did they catch him ?"flatness asked anxiously.

"No,"James River said."But, Longbottom said the owner of dame Puddifoot 's also saw him, so the Ravenclaw daughter probably did see him. They 've scoured Hogsmeade and there 's no house of him, though."

"Are they rescheduling the peer ?"Albus asked.

James nodded."Next Sabbatum. Good thing, too, because I do n't reckon that one would 've ever ended. Do n't tell Fred, but there 's no way I would 've seen the Snitch."

"One upper side to Greyback being on the basis, I guess,"Albus said.

"Lucky he did n't set on that girl,"mat said as James II left."He attacks people even when he 's not transformed."

"He did that to my uncle Bill,"Albus said.

"Really ?"Matt asked.

Albus nodded."At the end of my dad 's sixth twelvemonth, the night Dumbledore was killed. He does n't transform, but he likes really rarified heart. Like hardly cooked at all meat."

"Eww !"Kaden exclaimed."That 's gross. Wait, Matt, do you like really rare meat ?"

Matt grinned."Yeah. I hardly ever get it, though. Mum refuses to let me eat it because she thinks it 'll make me ill. And they do n't dish out it here."

"My uncle eats it all the time,"Albus said."aunty Fleur likes her steaks pretty rare, too. So does Teddy for that matter."

"I like mine well done,"Kaden said.

"Now that 's what 's gross,"mat replied."I should ask the house elves to constitute me uncommon steak."

"They probably would,"Rose said."They make you pretty much whatever you want."

"Let 's go tonight,"matte said."We have n't been down there in ages."

Kaden groaned."So we 're going to stimulate to see you eating a piece of raw meat ?"

"Not raw,"Matt said."Slightly cooked, bit of blood dripping out."

"Oh, consummate !"Kaden shouted."I 'm going back down to the common room."

Albus laughed and Matt grinned as Kaden ran out of the way. There was nothing like a trip to the kitchens to get their minds off of Greyback and the other escaped convicts.


A/N : Sorry for the late update ! I totally forgot it was Fri. Thanks for all the wonderful reviews ! Please check out my Marauders fic, Between Here and Somewhere.


The first year who saw Johnny on the grounds became an second Hogwarts renown. By the next day her entire tarradiddle had spread throughout the educatee torso like wildfire, and every I soul in the castle knew her name. She was Quinn Gregory XVI, a tiny fille who looked like she belonged in the Weasley clan with her yearn red fuzz and spray of lentigo across her case. Quinn seemed to be enjoying her newfound fame and always had a crowd of mass around her, asking her to recount the story.

Albus, himself, had heard the write up at least five times. Quinn had been running to the pitch, late, because she 'd drop a one-half minute trying to convince one of her roommates to go to the compeer, but in the end her roomy had decided she did n't want to brave the storm. Quinn then spotted person lurking near the greenhouse and went to investigate, but instead of finding another scholarly person, she found Fenrir Rebel. Apparently Greyback had said 'hi, little girl'to Quinn, who then took off running even faster for the Quidditch pitch. greyback then escaped to Hogsmeade and who knows after that.

As the week progressed Quinn 's story grew until it ended with her disarming Reb after a twenty minute duel and running to the Quidditch auction pitch in order to warn the eternal rest of the student, rather than because she was scared. Albus was very happy that, for once, this had n't happened to him or one of his friends.

"surmisal what I heard today,"Kaden said as he entered the Marauder 's Den Friday evening, after dinner.

"What ?"Albus asked, looking up from the vulture 's Map, which he 'd spend the endure ten bit studying. John and Matt were in the room as well, matt studying and privy sorting chocolate anuran cards. Rose was tutoring Elsie Willinson again and Amanda had gone with her.

"Quinn,"Kaden said as he sat down next to Albus."She 's now saying that Rebel stole her wand and she got away from him by kicking his kneecaps."

Albus burst out laughing."That 's ridiculous. She 's still got her wand."

"She claims Ollivander 's sent her an exact replication,"Kaden replied.

"But no two baton are the same,"John pointed out."Everyone knows that."

"She 's Muggle-born,"Kaden pointed out."She might not."

"But still,"Albus said."She 's taken it too far. No one 's going to consider her now and it 's all going to die down."

Albus laughed as he looked back at the Marauder 's Map. He 'd been checking it, both the Hogsmeade and Hogwarts surgical incision, looking for Greyback every so often since last Sabbatum. He 'd yet to find anything remotely interesting on it, to the lowest degree of all Rebel or one of the other escaped convicts.

"Scorpius is leaving the rook,"Albus said, noticing the dot labeled 'Scorpius Malfoy'was no longer in the Slytherin usual room, but instead slowly making its way across the grounds.

"What ?"matt asked, closing his book."But it 's eight o'clock. And it 's snowing."

"It 's him all right,"Albus said."Come see."

lusterlessness, John, and Kaden all crowded around Albus and they watched Scorpio 's dot travel further and further from the castling. There were no other window pane on the grounds, except Hagrid 's, and his was remaining stationary behind his hut. It did n't come out that Malfoy was meeting anyone outside, nor did anyone go with him. It was odd, especially in light of his other odd behavior.

"I wonder what he 's up to,"Albus mused.

"We should espouse him,"Gospel According to John said."See what he 's up to."

"I agree,"Kaden said."No one goes outside at night during a storm for no grounds at all. He 's up to something."

"We 'd get caught,"Albus pointed out.

"And it 's immobilize,"matt added.

"We 'll postulate your invisibleness Cloak,"John said.

"I do n't recollect we all fit anymore,"Albus said, not taking his gens off Malfoy 's dot.

"Then Kaden and I can go,"John replied.

"No way,"Albus said."It 's my cloak and I do n't want you having it when Filch catches you. He 'll attach it."

"Who says we 'll get caught ?"toilet asked.

Albus laughed and turned to look at John."Of track you 'll get caught. And then my cloak will get taken away and I 'll never see it again and my dad will murder me."

"Your dad 's Harry Potter,"John said."He 's not going to murder his own son."

"If he did Laurentis would love it."Kaden laughed."I can see the headline now. 'Harry Potter Murders Own Son, Clearly Unfit For Duty. Weasley Still Supports Him .'”

"Oh shut it,"Albus muttered.

"time lag,"lusterlessness said, staring at the map."He 's going to the Whomping Willow."

Albus looked back at the map and saw that Matt was right. Malfoy 's dot was slowing down and circling the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, giving it a panoptic berth."What 's he doing ?"

"You do n't imagine he 's figured it out, do you ?"lusterlessness asked.

"Well now we have to go after him,"John said, standing up.

matt nodded."Come on, Albus, let us take your cloak."

"Fine,"Albus said, knowing that the battle was lost. Malfoy was at the Whomping willow, which meant that this was now personal for Matt, and therefore, for all of them."But I still do n't get it on if we 'll all fit."

Albus walked over to his bed and located the cloak in one of the drawers beneath it. He rarely kept it in his dormitory anymore, since he and his protagonist spent far more meter in the marauder 's Den than they did in the common elbow room.

"Let 's try it,"Albus said as his friends walked over to him. They stood close and Albus threw the cloak over them.

"Half my soundbox is showing,"Saint John the Apostle said, turning to look at his still visible arm.

"And all our foundation are showing,"Matt pointed out.

"That 's because Albus and can are monster,"Kaden asked, glancing up at the five inch of space that separated his forefront from the top of the cloak.

"Both of you are going to have to scrunch down,"matt said.

"But what about the fact that half my soundbox is showing ?"whoremaster asked, yanking on the cloak.

"Now I 'm not under it at all,"matte said, yanking it back.

"I wish we could do Disillusionment magical spell,"Albus muttered."Too bad we do n't learn those until seventh year."

"Rose could probably picture them out,"John said."We should take her ascertain them."

"Well we do n't ingest time for that now and we 're wasting time arguing. Malfoy could be in the tunnel by now,"matt said.

"There are wards,"Albus pointed out.

"Still ..."flatness muttered.

"mulct,"John said."Albus and mat can go and Kaden and I will remain here."

"What ?"Kaden shouted."Why 'd you volunteer me to stay ?"

"fountainhead, Albus is n't going to let anyone need the cloak without him going and flatness has to go since Malfoy 's by the Whomping Willow,"John said."That leaves you and me. I do n't think more than than two of us are going to fit."

"Let 's go, then,"Matt said, yanking the cloak off of John and Kaden and repositioning it over himself and Albus."See you in a bit."

Albus nearly had to run to keep on up with lusterlessness and keep himself crouched down enough to stay put hidden, and that was saying something since usually Albus was much faster than matt. The two of them said nothing on their way down to the front door and were n't noticed by any of the students or professors they passed.

"Remember, we 've got to be back before curfew,"Albus said once they shut the front door."We do n't want to be locked out like back in second year."

"This is total deja vu,"matt added."Two days ago we caught Kaden messing with the Whomping Willow. That 's when Kendrick added the wards."

"But unlike with Kaden, I do n't recall we 'll wind up friends with Malfoy after,"Albus pointed out.

The grounds were very quiet, the only sound being the crunching of their fundament in the snow. Albus carefully vanished their footprints as they walked, while Matt led them down the path to the Whomping Willow. It was very stale and snowy, which reminded Albus even More of the metre they got locked out of the castle after sneaking into the scream hut.

"Is he even still there ?"lusterlessness asked quietly when they were halfway to the tree.

Albus paused and pulled the marauder 's Map out of his pocket. Scorpius 's dot was still walking methodically in a circle around the tree."Yeah, he 's there."

lusterlessness nodded and they continued walking. Neither of them had lit their wands, so they slowed down in order to not be hit by the Willow 's large branches. Finally they reached it and stood just outside its hitting range of mountains, waiting for Malfoy to fall back around.

The Slytherin boy was wrapped in a midst cloak and pacing with his headway always turned toward the tree. He had his baton out and did n't look to mark that he had been joined by Albus and Matt. Albus glanced at matte as Malfoy walked past them, unsure of whether to call his attention to their front. Since they were invisible, they could just stand there and catch him.

"There 's got to be a way,"Malfoy muttered."Every ward has a watery compass point. They do n't all end forever."

Albus could now see that Malfoy was sending various hexes and hex into the Montgomery Ward, but they were all deflecting away. As he rounded the tree once more, a hex bounced off the Barbara Ward and nearly hit Albus, who had to leap out of the way to invalidate it. His leg slipped out from underneath the cloak in the process, but Malfoy did n't see it.

"It 's got to work,"Malfoy said."There 's no other way in ...."

"Into where ?"mat mouthed. Albus shrugged.

They waited for Malfoy to make another circuit around the tree and this fourth dimension one of the hex reflected off the wards and toward Matt, who jumped to get out of the way, but tripped over a partially buried tree ancestor instead. He fell over, yanking the cloak down with him, leaving both himself and Albus exposed. Matt let out a stream of curses and a cry of pain. Albus heard a sickening compaction as he fell and hoped it was the tree root and not Matt 's leg.

"Who 's there ?"Malfoy shouted, aiming his wand at Albus and Matt. He lit it and his face visibly paled."What are you two doing here ?"

Albus lit his own scepter. lusterlessness was still sitting in the snow."I could ask you the same affair, Malfoy,"Albus said.

Albus pointed his wand at Matt and reached down to help him up. He was clutching his wrist and his face was as blanch as Malfoy 's, although for dissimilar cause.

"I said, what are you two doing here ?"Malfoy repeated, not sounding very confident.

"pursuit you,"Albus said simply, thinking money plant would be the best insurance policy here. After all, all three of them were breaking the regulation. Not much point in denying it or making up excuses.

"How did you know I was here ?"Malfoy asked. His wand arm was now trembling, although Albus did n't know if it was from the low temperature or fear.

"Saw you leave the castle,"Albus said."Figured we 'd see what you were up to."

"What do you want with the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree ?"Matt demanded. His phonation sounded pained.

Malfoy 's sass turned up in a sly grin."Once again, you just confirmed my hunch. This Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree 's how you get into the Shrieking hut. I did a little more research, and turns out this thing was planted the same year the Shrieking hut was built. The same year Remus Lupin started going to Hogwarts. That Shack 's all boarded up so I figured there must be some sort of tunnel leading to it and what salutary way to blot out a tunnel than to put a homicidal Tree above it ? Trouble is, I ca n't incapacitate the wards. Bet you can, though."

"Why ?"Matt asked. Albus heard him inhale sharply and began to wonder if his wrist was broken."Why do you want to get in there ?"

"Ca n't tell you,"Malfoy said.

"Well, I 'm not disabling the Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth,"matt said.

"I 'll figure it out eventually,"Malfoy said.

Albus wanted to ask him about his behavior at dueling practices so badly. They 'd had another drill the previous day and again, Malfoy had n't said two words to anyone. It was just strange. Bur Albus figured that even if he asked, Malfoy would n't answer.

"It 'd be obtuse, you know,"Matt said."Going into the screaming Shack."

"fountainhead I would n't go in on a full lunar month, retard,"Malfoy said."Believe it or not this has zilch to do with you or your malign face. I could n't give care less that you 're a filthy werewolf. I have better things-"

Albus jabbed his wand into Malfoy 's chest, nearly knocking him over in the process. His heart was pounding and he could experience heat rising up in his soundbox."You. guide. That. backbone,"he seethed.

"Albus, do n't,"Matt said.

Malfoy scowled."No. I wo n't, because it 's avowedly. I do n't care. It was the whodunit that I liked and nothing more. You do n't know the one-half of what 's going on or why I want that Shack. He only uses it one nighttime out of twenty-eight. I want it the other twenty-seven. I do n't get why that 's such a huge deal."

"What 's going on over there ?"a loud voice boomed over the soil."Eh, what 're yeh doing ?"

Albus quickly moved his baton and pointed it elsewhere. It was one matter to get caught on the flat coat after darkness but another to be caught threatening another student. He pointed his sceptre in the direction of the voice and saw Hagrid making his way toward them, his large Newfoundland, Fetch, at his position.

"Albus ?"Hagird asked as he drew nearer."Matt ? What 're yeh doing out here ? And Malfoy ?"

"Er, nil,"Albus muttered.

"fountainhead, yer breaking the principle so I 'm going to have to take yeh to Longbottom,"Hagrid said and then turned to Malfoy."And you 'll have to see Slughorn."

"infirmary wing,"matte said."First."

Hagrid turned to Matt and looked at his radiocarpal joint."O'course,"he said."What did yeh do ?"

"Tripped over a root,"Matt said."Landed on a rock."

Hagrid nodded and clapped Matt on the binding, a gesture clearly meant to soothe him but instead nearly knocked him over again. After he recovered they set off for the castle, walking next to Hagrid. Malfoy followed at a little distance. Hagrid did n't ask them what they were doing by the Whomping willow again, although Albus had a feeling he probably knew. After all, he knew why the tree was there and the fact that Matt was a werewolf.

The castling was much emptier when they returned than when they had left. Albus only saw a few prefects doing their rounds and realized that curfew must have passed. So much for not getting in trouble.

Hagrid walked them to the infirmary flank and left Albus and Matt there while he then escorted Malfoy to Slughorn 's written report. Malfoy had remained muted during the full walk, but lost the sneer he 'd have on when he insulted matt.

"I thought you lot had grown out of this,"ma'am Pomfrey said as she examined matt 's wrist."This sneaking about in the dead of nighttime, following people. At least you did n't get locked out this meter.

"Yes, your wrist is definitely discontinue. But I can mend it quickly."

gentlewoman Pomfrey took her baton out of her robes and pointed it at Matt 's wrist. She muttered a spell and instantly, his wrist was healed.

"Thanks,"matte said, bending his wrist.

"You 're welcome,"the nursemaid replied. She hurried over to a locker and returned with a goblet of potion."Take this for the pain and you 'll be upright as new. No pauperization to stay the Nox. I know you stay here enough as it is. You 're to hold back here until prof Longbottom comes to gather you."

matte nodded and downed the potion in one large draught. Albus sat down next to him on the bed and they waited for Longbottom. Albus did n't cerebrate Hagrid had seen him with his wand pointed at Malfoy, so his punishment should n't be too bad.

"You do n't call back he 'll make you miss Quidditch tomorrow, do you ?"lusterlessness asked.

Albus had n't thought of that."I hope not. Fred would kill me."

The doorway to the hospital ward opened and Professor Longbottom walked inside. He looked run down and slightly annoyed. He sighed and shook his oral sex when he saw Albus and Matt.

"You two again ?"he asked."Hagrid said you were on the grounds after curfew ?"

"Yes, sir,"Albus replied. He always felt eldritch calling prof Longbottom 'sir', but figured it could n't hurt in this office.

"Should I bother asking why ?"Longbottom replied.

Albus shook his head, knowing that telling Longbottom why would n't get them any fewer detentions, nor would it intercept Malfoy from trying to figure out how to get into the shriek Shack.

"I 'll make this sluttish, then,"Longbottom said."Ten decimal point from Gryffindor, each. And you 'll both serve detention tomorrow, immediately following the Quidditch match. business line, in my office. I 'll see you then."Longbottom turned to leave. He nodded to Madam Pomfrey as he walked to the door."full Nox, Poppy."

"trade good Night, Neville,"gentlewoman Pomfrey said.

Albus and matt said good Night to the nurse and then left the ward, both automatically going back to the coarse room rather than the vulture 's Den. If they were caught outside of Gryffindor tug twice in one night they 'd get a very much worse punishment than XX lost points and a detention. Albus thought they 'd gotten off easy, to be honest. He wondered what Slughorn had set for Malfoy.

can, Kaden, pink wine, and Amanda were waiting for them when they got back. John the Evangelist and Kaden were smirking.

"Do n't say a word,"Albus muttered."I knew whoever followed him would get caught."

"Figured you did, seeing as you 've been gone for over an hour,"John said."What 's your punishment ?"

"Detention tomorrow after Quidditch and we each lost ten points,"Albus said.

"You got off easy,"Kaden replied."If it had been me and John we would 've gotten three detentions."

"I think Longbottom took pity on us because Matt broke his wrist while we were out there,"Albus said.

john laughed."Of course he did."

"Shut it,"lusterlessness said."It really ache. I was dodging a curse that Malfoy sent to the Willow that reflected off the wards."

"Did you find anything useful out ?"blush wine asked."Not that I approve of this."

Albus and Matt explained what had happened, including the percentage where Malfoy insulted lusterlessness and Albus nearly hexed him.

"Very odd,"rose wine mused."What can he possibly want the hut for ? And what did he mean when he said he had former stuff going on ? What other stuff could he possibly have going on besides shoal ?"

"Whatever he 's got going on with Willinson ?"John suggested."Surely Felix knows what his cousins are up to and Malfoy 's always involved with that."

Albus shrugged."Maybe. But why would he call for the Shack ?"

"Who knows,"lavatory said.

"I bet it 's got something to do with that letter,"Amanda said."And why he 's acting so strangely lately."

"Speaking of acting strangely, Elsie Willinson is still acting weird,"blush wine said."I thought she would 've adjusted by now, but she has n't. She does n't seem to make any friends."

"DOE her brother still pick her up from tutoring ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah,"rose replied."It 's very odd. I asked her if she wanted to hang out with me and Amanda until curfew, but she said she could n't. So I said maybe another time and she said probably not."

"That 's odd,"lav said."Clearly they 're up to something."

"They 're always up to something,"Albus pointed out."I 'd love to know what it is, though. I wonder if they 've been in contact lens with Quinton."

"They 'd be stupid to be,"pink wine said."Kendrick did n't penalise Felix for what happened to Kaden two years ago, telling him if he did it again he 'd get expelled."

"I still say you 've got to compute out what 's up with Elsie,"John said.

"I 'm trying,"rosiness insisted."It 's not as comfortable as you 'd think. She hardly talks at all."

"Just keep back trying,"Saint John the Apostle said.

"team !"Fred suddenly shouted from across the common room."Off to bed, all of you ! We 've got a second chance at this and let 's not ruin it by staying up all night."

Albus did n't argue. Turning in too soon was a good musical theme and he was actually quite tired after his excursion to the Whomping Willow. He bade right Night to his protagonist and went up to his tranquillity, empty hall. It did n't carry him long to fall asleep and he dreamt of playing Quidditch with Malfoy while the two of them dodged the Whomping willow on brooms.


A/N : Thanks for all the followup ! I am doing Camp NaNoWriMo again this calendar month ( probably not a good idea ... ), and I 'm writing this for it, so hopefully I 'll finish it !



The weather for the rematch was vastly different from the premature Sabbatum 's weather condition. The sky seemed to be all out of C and the sun was shining. Although it was still bitterly frigidity, there was piffling wind. Albus hoped the match would be a long one since as soon as it was over, he had to serve custody with professor Longbottom.

Albus went down to the Great G. Stanley Hall by himself for breakfast. His betimes night had given way to him waking up far sooner than he normally did. It was skillful being able to linger over breakfast, though, and focus on the forthcoming match rather than interact with his friends. As he ate, the Great Hall slowly filled. He had just finished the stopping point of his testicle when the post owls arrived.

Albus observed the owls and did n't recognize any of them. Clearly he was not receiving any post today, which was a honest matter because he was fairly certain Longbottom had owled his parents about his detention. But then he noticed a very large owl holding a red envelope in its mouth ; it was a howler and the owl was heading toward the Slytherin table. Albus continued watching it and saw it land right in forepart of Scorpius, who yanked the envelope off the owl 's leg and tripped over the bench in his haste to leave the room. Albus actually sympathized with him ; it was awful opening a howler in populace. From the audio of it, Malfoy did n't quite make it to a loo or empty classroom. Muffled shouting could be heard coming from the incoming Hall.

Malfoy did n't return to the Great Hall. Albus figured it must have been a particularly dreaded howler and was wondering what it could possibly experience said when his friend sat down following to him.

"Malfoy got a howler,"Gospel According to John said as he started loading his plate with bacon.

"I know,"Albus said."Saw him get it."

"fountainhead, we heard the tail end of it,"Saint John said.

"It was awful,"Rose replied.

"What did it say ?"Albus asked."Who was it from ?"

"His dad, I 'm guessing,"lav said."It was a man 's representative. We crouched down on the stairs when we saw him. Basically his dad was yelling at him for getting in trouble for stunned affair when he should be studying and concentrating on his school work and keeping his drumhead down. Then he said something about how Malfoy knows that they, meaning his parents, have far more important thing on their minds than worrying about Malfoy getting in trouble in school day. And how they ca n't vex about him at school day when they 're busy worrying about other things."

"That 's vague,"Albus said."He did n't say what the other thing were ?"

"Nope,"John said."But Malfoy obviously knows what they are because he was shaking and he ran for the donjon after the howler blew up."

"I told you the letter he read at drill was about something bad,"Amanda said.

"And now we know it 's got something to do with his family,"Albus said.

"Maybe they 're going to conjoin up with Willinson and the Carrows and all them,"matte said."His dad was a end Eater, was n't he ?"

"Sort of,"Albus said."His gramps was, but his dad sort of got caught up in it and he got off. So did his grandad, actually. No one really knows why, but my dad vouched for them at their hearing."

"Now that is weird,"matte said."Maybe his granddaddy is planning on joining them."

Albus shrugged."Maybe, but it just does n't sound right. Listen, I 've got to get to the pitch. I 'll see you after."

"Yeah, for detention,"Matt muttered."Going to be a blast."

Albus 's wish for a long peer came true. Since the atmospheric condition was cooperating, James River put off catching the Snitch until Gryffindor was up by 200 gunpoint, instead focusing his endeavour on faking nosedive to observe Ravenclaw 's Seeker away from the sneak. It worked, and three and a half hr later James caught the Snitch and won the match for Gryffindor. Albus was sorely frustrated that he 'd have to lack the resulting party in the common room, but figured that 's what Longbottom was going for when he scheduled hold for right after the lucifer.

lustrelessness was waiting for Albus in the Great entrance hall and the two of them grabbed a agile luncheon before hurrying to Longbottom 's office. They spent the following two hours writing'I will not sneak out of the castling after darkness'over and over again. By the time they were done Albus wanted to curl up up and carry a nap, since the Quidditch match itself had exhausted him. He and lustrelessness decided to drop the good afternoon in the Marauder 's Den, just relaxing if not actually sleeping.

When they arrived they found John and Kaden in the center of plotting their new trick. blush wine and Amanda were in the program library, apparently avoiding John and Kaden and their prank.

"Are you two sure as shooting you do n't need to be involved with this ?"John asked."It 's going to be legendary."

"It wo n't be worth the hold,"Albus said.

"Seriously,"flatness agreed."If it 's legendary it 's going to mean a lot of detentions."

"Fine,"John Lackland said.

John and Kaden lowered their voices, but Albus distinctly heard the words 'Weasleys '', 'itching powder ,''Slytherins ,'and 'alarm filaria .'At that point, he really did n't want to know. He and lusterlessness decided to start a game of Bromus secalinus and attempted to tune out trick and Kaden 's whisperings.

"I was thinking the former nighttime and realized if my dad loses his job when Laurentis is elected it 's going to be just like Commonwealth of Australia,"flatness said as he captured one of Albus 's pawns.

"I had n't thought of that,"Albus said."Does that mean you 'd move again ?"

"I do n't have sex,"flatness said quietly."I really hope not. I guess I do n't mean so because the real reason we moved here was so I could go to school, not for Dad to get a new job."

"Then you probably wo n't,"Albus replied, taking one of mat 's bishops.

"But if he does lose it, it 's going to probably signify Laurentis disagrees with him on werewolf matter,"Matt pointed out."That could be really bad."

"You never know,"Albus said."There 's other matter your dad mess with that they might disagree on."

"But my dad 's the most vocal on werewolf rights. Everyone knows that,"Matt said."If they 're going to disagree on something, that 's going to be it."

"I guess you 'll have to wait until the debate,"Albus said.

"I 'm thinking of going,"flatness said quietly."It might be frightful, but I want to acknowledge what she says firsthand, not from the Prophet."

"That makes sense,"Albus said."When is it ?"

"In three weeks,"Matt said."February 15th. That 's the merely affair ; it 's the day of the Hogsmeade trip."

"That happened last Hogsmeade weekend,"Albus said,"when rosiness went. Sucks that they do that."

Matt nodded."I think I 'll go anyway. I mean, it is the Valentine 's Hogsmeade stumble. oral presentation of that, is Henry James still going out with that Hufflepuff lady friend ? I forgot her name."

"Gabby Ellis,"Albus said."I 've no idea, to be honest. I guess we 'll rule out when the Hogsmeade trip comes."

"Just as long as Fred does n't schedule Quidditch practice for that day again,"Matt pointed out.

Albus laughed."He wo n't. None of us minded too much since the conditions was so nice, but I think if he did it again the whole squad would hate him."

"That would realize an awkward family dinner, considering over half the team are your cousins,"Matt said.

"Family dinners with my household have become awkward by definition,"Albus said."Luckily the succeeding one wo n't be until far after the election."

"Only a fiddling over two calendar month to go,"mat said."You can pee-pee it."

"I hope so,"Albus replied, as he moved his poof in the address crinkle of mat 's king."Checkmate."
***


"Rufus Scrimgeour was the last rector of Magic to be appointed by the Wizengamot,"prof Embry said as he strolled around his classroom. It was the beginning week of February and the class had finally gotten to the period where they were beginning to talk over the irregular war."He was appointed quickly, after Cornelius Fudge resigned.

"Minister Fudge is commonly known as the least competent Minister ever to defend office,"Embry continued."He refused to think grounds that was laid out plainly in social movement of him, for fear of being known as the minister who held office when Voldemort returned. Somehow, he thought that if he ignored what was redress in front of him, it would just simply go away. This backfired, of course, because he is now known for being the least competent Minister.

"Scrimgeour is seen in a slightly better twinkle than Fudge, although he was minister of religion when the Ministry fell to Voldemort in August of 1997 ...."

Albus knew all of this, of course. He 'd grown up listening to his parents laugh at the incompetency of Fudge and the pointlessness of Scrimgeour being considered a minister of religion at all. Nevertheless, he listened to Embry and took detailed line since the essays Embry set were often yearn and unmanageable.

"The clip of the second war was a time of fear and bedlam,"Embry said as he reached the straw man of the room again."No one knew what was going on or who to believe. Many multitude heartily believed Fudge and what he said, believing Albus Dumbledore to be a role player or even senile. When this realness was shattered for them in June of of 1996, they did n't have sex what to do or who to turn to, or even what to believe. They 'd been fooled for a full year, believing what their Ministry and newsprint told them. Now that they knew they 'd been lied to for a year, what were they to do ? They did n't confide anyone, let alone the Ministry. well-nigh people 's goal were to protect their home and friends and that was it.

"It was the fear and chaos that allowed Voldemort and his followers to consume control of the Ministry. Without the support of wizarding U.K., the Ministry was debile and susceptible to a coup d'etat. It was childlike for Voldemort to slip in and takeover in a subject of weeks."

"alibi me, professor ?"Olivia Price said, raising her hand.

"Yes, Miss Price ?"Embry replied."You have a interrogative ?"

"Yes, sir,"Olivia replied."I was just wondering, and you do n't have to answer, but what were you doing during the second war ?"

If Embry was surprised that Olivia asked him a question about his personal biography, he did n't show it. Instead he gave a slight smile and began to take the air around the schoolroom again.

"I do n't mind answering that,"Embry said."Many of your parents were involved with the war effort, so of course of action you 're curious. When the Ministry fell I 'd been working there for about six years. I got a job as an undersecretary in the Department of Magical Transportation when I was just out of Hogwarts and worked my way up the rank and file.

"I 'd incur a promotion shortly before minister of religion Fudge resigned and worked to draft laws, but I quit after Scrimgeour got appointed because I saw that the Ministry was fallible and corrupt and no longer wished to align myself with it. After Voldemort 's defeat, I was approached by Kingsley Shacklebolt asking if I would like to be involved with rebuilding the Ministry, and I said yes."

Albus was impressed. Embry had n't mentioned what sort of job he did at the Ministry and Albus had had no idea he had been so Byzantine with its rebuilding after the war.

"So you can see why I believe it is so significant to educate all of you about the account of the Ministry and how it is organized now,"Embry finished."flavour like we 're out of time for today so delight write an eight in essay on Rufus Scrimgeour 's term as minister for preparation, due following Tuesday."

Albus packed up his bag and headed back up to Gryffindor tower with his friends. When they arrived, there was a gang around the notice display panel, which was unusual. The Hogsmeade weekend appointment had already been announced and rarely did other notification garner such a crew around the poster card.

Albus shrugged at his friends and they squeezed through the crowd until they could read it. It was a large poster, covering the majority of the circuit card, imposing an other curfew Lord's Day night. Everyone, first through seventh twelvemonth, were to be back inside the castling by five in the evening, no exceptions. Below that it warned that Filch was going to lock the front doorway at exactly five and that everyone was to describe to their common room at five-thirty.

"That 's Wyrd,"Albus said as he and his friends retreated."I do n't think they 've ever imposed a curfew so betimes before, and for everyone ?"

"It 's because Johnny Reb has n't been caught,"Matt said quietly."Sunday 's the replete moon."

"They must mean he 's going to come back,"Albus replied.

"Scary,"bathroom added."Do you really think he will ?"

"I do n't know,"Matt said."But I 'd bet my parents'whole Gringotts vault that he 's going to bite someone Sunday night."

"delay,"Rose said."You do n't usually go to the Shrieking hut until six or seven."

"They 're probably doing it early just to be safe,"Matt said."In case some people do n't keep an eye on it or something. It says on there that the prefects are going to do a psyche count. That 's why we all have to come back to the common room at five-thirty."

rose wine nodded."Then you 'll possess to leave later, after the doors are locked."

"Either that or Madam Pomfrey will have me go early,"Matt replied."I really hope not, though. I hate sitting out in the Shrieking Shack."

"I hope not, too,"Albus said quietly.

Albus and his champion were probably the only scholar who knew the rationality why a curfew had been imposed on Sunday. Even the prefects seemed clueless, since Albus overheard a few of them trying to forecast it out. More than a few educatee were angry about it, although Albus had no idea why since it was n't rough-cut for students to take a stroll on the grounds on a Sunday night in February. He supposed they liked the choice, though.

As Sunday drew closer lustrelessness became quieter and even more closed off than he normally was. In fact, it reminded Albus a lot of the way he was in kickoff year, before rose figured out why he disappeared once a calendar month. Both Albus and Rose tried to get him to give up about it, but he shrugged them off and insisted he was fine. whoremonger and Kaden did n't appear to remark any departure in lusterlessness, and Amanda was n't one to ask about it when he closed himself off.

Sat 's Dueling tourney proved uneventful. Albus spent the entire few hours worrying about mat because he had elected to skip the tourney in order to sleep, which was odd since he 'd normally at least try to take part. At least Malfoy made Albus 's life prosperous by remaining placidity throughout the tournament and not blaming Albus when the team came in thirdly topographic point. Albus himself won both of his duel, as did Malfoy.

On Sunday Albus and his friends spent the day in the Marauder 's Den, working on homework and playing game. matte slept for much of the day and he still was n't saying anything. While Albus was worried, he was fairly certain the rationality flatness was so hush was Greyback. When a quarter to five rolled around, they had to generate to Gryffindor to prove they were in the rook. lustrelessness was still asleep, so Albus told everyone else go to on ahead and that they 'd follow.

"Matt,"Albus whispered as he shook his friend awake."We 've got to go back to the unwashed room."

"This is stupid,"Matt muttered."They 're counting everyone to make surely no one gets attacked by a werewolf when they 've got one living in the castle."

"Is that why you 've been so placid this week ?"Albus asked as Matt got up. He did n't answer."You and Greyback are n't the same."

"I know,"matte said as they left the room. The corridor was empty, so he continued to talk."It 's just the fact that we 're both werewolf. That 's the Saame. What if they start doing this curfew thing every full moon, all because of me ?"

"They wo n't,"Albus said."You 're not dangerous because you 're in the shriek shack. It 's all sealed up."

"I guess, but it 's still possible."

"You and Greyback are different because he wants to bite masses. He purposely transforms near people, not on wolf's bane, so he can infect people. You hide yourself away to protect everyone. That 's a huge difference."

"But what if he does occur to Hogsmeade,"Matt continued."He 'll get wind me howling and know there 's a werewolf in the Shrieking Shack and he 'll try to get in."

"But he wo n't be able-bodied to,"Albus pointed out.

"And then if he does burn someone, and let 's front it, he will,"Matt said."It 's going to look bad for all lycanthrope. All it 'll deal is a few attacks and people will commence believing we should have our rights taken away. That 's what happened in Australia."

"You 're getting ahead of yourself,"Albus said as they reached the vulgar room."Right now you do n't know that any of that 's going to go on. Wandering banshee."

"You 're nearly late,"the Fat Lady said as she swung her portrait open.

Albus and matt climbed inside and found the unwashed way the most crowded they 'd ever seen it. Prefects were milling about attempting to get everyone to quiet down, but everyone was still trying to see out why such an early curfew had been set. The way was so herd that Albus and Matt could n't notice the rest of their protagonist and since being in a crowded room was not the best estimate for Matt right wing before the full moon, they quit searching and instead sat down near the dormitory doors.

"Everyone, quiet, please !"broom announced in a magically exaggerate phonation. The way finally quieted down."I know you 're all upset about the curfew but they have n't even severalize us prefects why it 's been imposed. It 's not that big a deal since it 's Feb, dark, and freezing international. None of you would be outside anyway. Now just remain repose while we take gyre so we can all get downstairs for dinner. After we 're done you 'll be allowed to roam the castle until your rule curfew."

Heather began calling out names in alphabetical order by yr. It took her fifteen or so minute of arc to get to the fourth part geezerhood and after that Albus tuned her out. fifteen moment after that she finished and all the Gryffindors had been accounted for. The vulgar room emptied out quickly, since everyone wanted to get to the Great Hall for dinner. Matt had fallen asleep and after Albus prodded him awake, he went up to the dorm to sleep until he had to go to the infirmary wing.

When Albus and his acquaintance returned from dinner matte had already left for the hospital offstage. They decided to just stick around the common elbow room since it was fairly empty and spent the evening working on their essays for prof Embry.

"Any fortune you lot have it away why we 're stuck inside ?"James II asked as he snagged the last electric chair at Albus 's board."Cedric, Ben, and I are asking everyone."

Albus exchanged a glance with Rose. He supposed it could n't hurt to enjoin James the rationality why, just so long as he did n't tell apart him why they knew. Of course, as soon as he told St. James the Apostle it would spread around the palace like firedrake pox at a wizarding nursery schooltime, but again, that would n't really hurt anything.

"We 've got a suspicion,"Albus said."Remember how Quinn Gregory Nazianzen saw Johnny Reb on the solid ground during the Quidditch match ?"

"Yeah,"James said.

"Well, tonight 's a full lunar month,"Albus said."Put it together."

James IV was silent for a moment and then his eyes grew big."You think Kendrick thinks he 's going to come here tonight ?"

"That 's our guess,"Albus said and his friend nodded.

"Makes sentience,"William James said."Can you imagine what sort of trouble Kendrick would be in if someone got bitten by a werewolf on the grounds ?"

Albus did n't require to think about it. He doubted matt wanted a fellow traveler in the Shrieking shanty.

"Scary,"James said,"thinking about Reb transformed while wandering around the primer coat. I wonder why they did n't just recount us. No one would be angry about it if they 'd secernate us the reason."

"Probably did n't want anyone to panic,"Albus said.

"shot so,"James agreed."But still, everyone 's going to know now."He grinned and then got up to go find Ben and Cedric. The fact that the curfew was due to Greyback would be common cognition in the palace within ten minutes, Albus guessed.

Albus managed to finish up his essay and decided to call it a nighttime shortly after. He did n't find like talking, not with the possibility that Greyback was either running around the Hogwarts grounds or setting himself on some unsuspecting Village, wanting to infect small children with lycanthropy. It was awful to think about. Albus laid awake for hours, trying not to think about it, but try as he might, he just could not crusade the thought from his mind.


It was a rare juncture that Albus witnessed the sun hike. Being fourteen-years-old, Albus preferred to kip until the very late forenoon or early afternoon, but this particular good morning he was up before the sun. He had n't slept much that night due to his trouble about Fenrir Reb and Matt, and decided that it was pointless to try and sleep when he 'd just take in to be up in an hour anyway.

Albus sat at the window and watched as the sun slowly rose over the horizon. The land looked passive, and not at all like the home where a werewolf could 've been roaming just a few hours before. The synodic month had set and both Matt and Greyback would be back in their man forms by now. Whatever had happened was over now and there was nothing anyone could do to change it. Albus wondered just how long it would take for the Prophet to publish some sort of clause on any attacks Reb might 've been the cause of.

Bilius and Ethan awoke before John the Evangelist did and busied themselves with talk of the Balycastle and Kenmare match that had taken post Saturday, completely unworried about Greyback. Albus was n't surprised since neither of them had any kind of personal connectedness with the get by lycanthrope. But they at least eff that the previous Nox had been a full moon, since James had spread that information around the castle.

lavatory finally rose shortly after Bilius and Ethan left for breakfast. Albus was relieved since they could now verbalize freely.

"What clip is it ?"John asked as soon as he sat up."Have we got meter to shoot the breeze Matt before Herbology ?"

"Just after eight, so not really,"Albus said."And there 's no point in visiting him now as he 's probably unconscious or sleeping. The moon just set two hours ago."

"Yeah, but he might cognize something,"John said as he closed the wall hanging on his bed while he dressed."He might 've heard Greyback end night."

"He never remembers anything about full lunar month,"Albus pointed out.

"It 's still Charles Frederick Worth a dead reckoning,"John replied.

Albus thought it would be kind of pointless, but they did n't have time before Herbology anyway. After John finished, the two hurried out of the dormitory and down to the Great Hall for a quick breakfast before social class. Rose, Amanda, and Kaden were already there.

"Anything in the Prophet ?"Albus asked as he grabbed a lot of toast.

Rose shook her read/write head and swallowed her Roger Bacon before answering."No. Absolutely nothing, but that does n't mean much. It could just be too soon for enough inside information to own emerged."

"well, we 've got a free menstruation this good afternoon, so we can go ask matt,"John said.

"I told you that he 's not going to recognise anything,"Albus reminded him.

John shrugged."You never know."

The residual of the student torso seemed to have got already forgotten about the ahead of time curfew and the to the full moonshine. Albus did n't hear anyone discussing it on his way to Herbology or at lunch later that day. Since there had n't been anything in the paper about an blast, it was old word for the Hogwarts students. Everyone that is, except for Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda.

Albus, John, and Amanda were still discussing it on their way to Care of Magical Creatures that good afternoon. When they arrived they found Hagrid surrounded by John Cage filled with diminished, black, fluffy creatures.

"'ello !"Hagrid shouted."I 've got nifflers for yeh today. Can anyone tell me what makes nifflers unique ?"

Albus raised his hand.

"Albus,"Hagrid said.

Albus grinned."Nifflers find treasure. They like shiny things."

"Tha 's right,"Hagrid said."So if you 've got lookout or jewelry on, take it off. I 've buried a load of leprechaun gold and your job for today will be to use the nifflers to find it. Everyone pair off and then come get a niffler. Whichever yoke finds the most gold gets a ring of burnt umber Frogs."

There was a hustle as everyone hurried to take off their jewelry and notice a niffler that looked like it would be a particularly gem hunter. Albus took off his watch, shoved it into his pocket, and followed toilet and Amanda over to the nifflers. With lustrelessness in the hospital wing, Albus was without a partner and decided to just join John the Divine and Amanda.

trick grabbed the niffler with the longest snout and held the end of the trail while they followed it around the background. Every so often the niffler would stop and dig through the Charles Percy Snow, revealing a belittled down of coins. Albus collected them and shoved them into a bag Hagrid had provided.

The entire procedure was rather think of. Albus enjoyed watching not only his niffler, but the rest of the grade 's nifflers as well. They were endearing, risible creature. At one head, Janie Creevey and Karina Jordan-Bell 's niffler managed to sniffle out a set of scales in Bilius 's bag resulting in all three of them playing tug-of-war with the niffler.

"Why 's he got his scales in there anyway ?"lavatory asked as they watched."We have n't got potions today."

Albus shrugged."No idea."

"Albus, John the Divine, expression !"Amanda shouted, pointing toward the castle.

Albus turned around and saw two figures walking toward Hagrid 's hut. It took a few seconds, but he soon realized that he knew both of them. One Albus recognized as a young Auror from his dad 's department. His name was Paul Leonard Newman and he 'd been one of the Aurors to aid when Kaden was kidnapped two years ago. The second man was none other than matt 's dad.

"What 's Matt 's dad doing here ?"John asked.

"Yeah, and who 's that former bloke ?"Amanda asked.

"He 's an Auror,"Albus said."But why are they here ?"

The two wizards walked past Albus, John Lackland, and Amanda without making any sort of eye contact lens, acting as if they 'd never seen them before. By now, the eternal sleep of the class was looking at them strangely. lustrelessness 's dad and Cardinal Newman kept walking until they reached Hagrid, and they began speaking with him in low voices.

"C'mon,"Albus said as he began walking toward Hagrid.

John the Divine tugged the niffler 's trail and he and Amanda followed Albus. Albus stopped once they were within hearing, hiding behind a bush. John and Amanda crouched down on either face of him.

"I s'ppose I did hear some funny haphazardness las'Night,"Hagrid said."More'n usual, that is. Always funny story noises from the woodland. A bit more howling than rule las'dark, coming from Hogsmeade. Could 've been a lycanthrope, but I don'know for sure."

"And did you see anything roaming the terra firma ?"matt 's dad asked. His vox sounded serious.

"No,"Hagrid said."Wasn'remote late. What 's this about ? Calidris canutus ?"

Matt 's dad and Paul Leonard Newman glanced at each former."Yes,"Matt 's dad said."We have reasons to believe Greyback was in the expanse hold up night and we 're looking for anyone who might 've seen something."

Hagrid shuddered."Wish I could help yeh. But yeh know, that howling from Hogsmeade could 've just been-"

"Yes, I know,"Mr. Eckerton cut him off, with a quick glance at Paul Newman."We 've had news report of more vicious, louder howling. Howling that seems to vary location."

"Oh !"Hagrid exclaimed."Yeah, well, again, wish I could help. I 'll pay a bit Thomas More tending next full phase of the moon moon."

"We 'd apprize it,"Mr. Eckerton said."Thanks for your time."

Matt 's dad and Paul Newman turned and left, without a second glance at Hagrid or the class. The remainder of the class had longsighted since returned to their nifflers and all had purse of amber far larger than Albus, John, and Amanda 's. But Albus no longer cared about winning the cocoa toad. It seemed that something did happen last night, but nobody knew exactly what.

At the end of the class, Albus, St. John, and Amanda came in dead survive for amount of coins collected. Hagrid seemed disappointed, but said that their niffler must 've just been tired. After returning it to its cage, the three hurried back to the palace, unquiet to stow their bags and go visit lustrelessness.

"If Greyback is n't on Wolfsbane should n't he be easily to get hold after the full lunar month ?"John asked as they walked to the hospital fender."Would n't he be injured ?"

"Not necessarily,"Albus said quietly."Matt only bites and attacks himself because he has nothing else to attack. If greyback 's out roaming the countryside, he can attack animals and people."

"But what about the actual transformation ?"can replied."Even werewolf on Wolfsbane are achy the next day because of that, right ?"

"I think so, yeah, but I bet if you 're being chased by Aurors that 's the last thing on your mind,"Albus pointed out."I 'm not sure. Matt would probably know."

matt was the entirely patient in the hospital wing and Madam Pomfrey was meddling in her study, so Albus and his friends were free to hash out whatever they pleased. Albus was happy to see that lustrelessness was awake, although he did expect slightly unsettled.

"Was there anything in the seer ?"matt asked as soon as Albus, lavatory, and Amanda had taken seats on his bed."And I 'm mulct, so do n't nettle asking."

"Er, no,"Albus said."Why ?"

"Last night was Weird,"Matt said.

"Told you he 'd know something,"John the Divine said to Albus.

"But I do n't,"matte replied."It was just Wyrd. I do n't bonk how else to describe it."

"What happened ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't lie with,"mat said quietly as he pulled his hands out from under the blanket. They were completely bandaged."aspect. My hands are the simply part of me that 's injured. I mean, I ache all over from the transformations, but I did n't bite myself at all last night."

Albus looked at the patch."But your hands. You did n't bite them ? Then why are they bandaged ?"

"sliver,"flatness said."Madam Pomfrey thinks I spent the Nox scratching at the threshold and trying to get out. I 've never done that before. I never remember anything from when I 'm the wolf, but I do sometimes call up feelings. Like if the wolf was really angry or something. live night it was dire, although I have no idea what for. I guess to get outside, if Madam Pomfrey is right."

"And your wolfy self has n't done that before ?"Albus asked.

"No,"mat shook his pass."I 've been transforming in the Shrieking Shack for three and a one-half years and the skirt chaser has never done that before."

"I 'll secern you something weirder,"King John said."Your dad was here earlier."

"What ?"Matt exclaimed."When ?"

"Just now,"John said."During Care of Magical Creatures, he and some Auror came to talk to Hagrid. We listened in-"

"Of course,"Matt cut in.

"Your dad and the Auror, they were asking Hagrid if he 'd seen or heard anything weird end nighttime. Hagrid said he did n't see anything, but he thought he heard more noise than common from Hogsmeade. Then he said that it may have just been you, but your dad cut him off, probably because of the Auror. Then your dad said that there had been reports of more venomous howling than usual."

"They definitely think that Greyback was in Hogsmeade cobbler's last night,"Albus said.

"What would 've happened if you got out ?"Amanda asked.

"Out of the hovel ?"mat asked."zip good. But now he knows that I was there. He 'll keep coming back until he 's captured. I wo n't actually be able-bodied to escape from the Shack. The Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth are too good."

The doorway to the ward flew open and flatness 's dad came striding inside, still looking as serious as he had earlier. After a quick glance around the room, he strode over to matt 's bed.

"Dad,"matte said.

"You do n't calculate surprised to see me,"Mr. Eckerton replied as he gave his son a hug."How are you feeling ?"

"I 'm all right,"lusterlessness said with a shrug."Albus, John the Divine, and Amanda saw you talking to Hagrid. well, they heard you, too. Where 's the Auror ?"

Mr. Eckerton let out a curtly jape and then turned to Albus."I saw you in the shrub. adjacent sentence you 're trying to hide, do n't cover with a niffler. They 're notorious giveaways. Yours was trying to sniff out Newman 's pouch watch."

"I missed nifflers ?"lusterlessness asked, clearly thwarted.

"Yeah,"Albus said."I bet Hagrid would let you see one after you 're best, though."

"I need to speak with you about last Nox, Matt,"Mr. Eckerton said quietly."In private, perhaps ?"

Matt shook his oral sex."I already told them about last night, so they might as well stay."

"All right,"Mr. Eckerton said."I need you to try and remember if you heard or saw anything strange last night. I know you never remember anything, but try."

mat held up his bandaged hands."Madam Pomfrey thinks I tried to get out of the Shack stopping point night. That never happens. Whatever was outside kept the wolf occupied all dark. I did n't attack myself."

Mr. Eckerton 's eyes grew bombastic and Albus noticed that the sober look had dissipated. It was replaced with a look Albus had seen quite often on his own Father-God. It was a Father 's seismic disturbance and worry.

Matt explained the rest, including the role about the brute belief desperate. Mr. Eckerton seemed to speculate this for a few instant before sighing and shaking his head.

"What 's going on, Dad ?"Matt asked.

Mr. Eckerton sighed once more."I suppose it could n't pain to tell you. It 'll be in the vaticinator tomorrow anyway. Two kid were attacked in Little Shingleton last dark. It 's a town about five nautical mile away, on the other English of that wad next to Hogsmeade. We 've been trying to calculate out whether it was Johnny Reb or not, since he left immediately after biting them."

"Were they Muggles ?"mat asked.

"No,"Mr. Eckerton said."Which makes me believe that this was a carefully planned blast. Little Shingleton is a Muggle village, with these two shaver and their parents being the only witches and sorcerer in the domain. It 's too coincidental. And why attack both tyke ? almost werewolves take off immediately after biting someone, their instinct telling them to get as far away as potential, as quickly as possible."

"And did they ... subsist ?"matte replied.

"They 're both in stable shape at St. Mungo 's. Once their bites heal, they 'll be finely, hold open for the fact that they now have lycanthropy. The bites were unclouded and small, not formula wolfman collation. These bites were inflicted just to taint. Another foretoken toward Greyback."

"But what about Hogsmeade ?"Albus asked.

"Five miles is not an unimaginable journey for a lycanthrope in a night,"Mr. Eckerton explained."Most in all probability Greyback heard Matt 's howling last night and followed the auditory sensation. Once there, he probably spent the rest of the night attempting to get inside the shrieking Shack, which is impossible."

"So you really think it was him ?"mat asked.

"I do, and Auror Newman agrees with me. I left him in Kendrick 's sketch, after telling him I needed to chit-chat you since we were already here. But what you 've told me just solidifies it."

"But ca n't you just go get him ?"John the Divine asked."He ca n't be that far. No offense, flatness, but if you were outdoors you would n't get very far."

"None taken."

"The thing that makes lycnathropy so difficult to analyse, and also most in all likelihood the understanding why Wolfsbane does n't operate for all werewolf, is that each mortal 's lycanthropy is vastly different from others. Its effects depend a lot upon a person 's thought toward their own lycanthropy. Fenrir Greyback has spent his life-time embracing his lycnathropy and living for that one night a month where his true nature emerges. He embraces his woman chaser side so much that he even attacks people when the moonlight is not full.

"You, Matt, on the other hired man, identify most with your human being side. As you should, considering you 're only a wolf one night out of twenty-eight. Therefore, you resist the transformation. You fight it with your every roughage, every calendar month. Greyback embraces it, and probably shifts a lot well-off than you do. His transformations most probably do not get him the Lapplander pain."

"I guess that makes gumption,"matte said.

"But still,"John said."They should be combing the afforest for him."

Mr. Eckerton chuckled."They are. Trust me. They have the entire werewolf dominance social unit searching for him, along with six Aurors, and a handful of junior and trainee Aurors. They do n't normally dispatch Aurors to enamour rogue lycanthrope, as that 's usually the Werewolf Control unit of measurement 's job. And it 's not usually my job to inquire werewolf attacks. But this is a in high spirits profile case, so they want many people on it, including hoi polloi in charge. We 'll get him."

Albus wondered if Teddy was on the typesetter's case. He was a Junior Auror now. Knowing chemise, he 'd desire to be on the caseful since Greyback had turned his dad into a werewolf.

"I 've got to get back to the Ministry and satiate out a report card,"Mr. Eckerton said as he stood up from his chair."If you think of anything else, matte, ask to use professor Longbottom 's Floo. hooter are easily intercepted."

mat said bye to his dad and soon the boy and Amanda were alone in the hospital wing once more. Albus did n't know what to say. Fenrir Greyback, it seemed, was up to his old magic and somehow Matt had gotten involved.
***


Fenrir Greyback 's fire on the two children took the altogether breast Sir Frederick Handley Page of the Prophet the following morning. The entire Great hallway was talking about it, professor, pupil, and ghosts. written matter of the newspaper were being passed faster than disc of bacon. Albus managed to snag a copy from his cousin-german Ben.

FENRIR GREYBACK ATTACKS IN LITTLE SHINGLETON

Fenrir Greyback, escaped convict and werewolf,
was sighted net night in Little Shingleton,
Scotland. Little Shingleton is nearly an
entirely Muggle village, make unnecessary for one
wizarding family. The family, whose
names have not been released due to the
Underage Lycanthrope Protection Law,
suffered an extreme tragedy last Nox,
when Fenrir knot attacked both of
their children. Both tyke are
reportedly in stable condition at St.
Mungo 's.

An probe, organized by both the
Auror Department and the Department for
the Regulation and Control of Magical
animate being, headed by head of that department,
Walter Eckerton, concluded late yesterday.
'We 've interviewed various eyewitnesses
who saw or heard a werewolf in Hogsmeade
during the full moon. Hogsmeade is only
about five miles from Little Shingleton .'
Investigators said that legion former
clues led them to believe that the onset
was by Fenrir Greyback, despite not having
actually seen him in Little Shingleton.
'We are not devise to disclose all item
of the investigation. But we are positive
that this was an onset by Johnny. A team
of Aurors and wolfman dominance Unit employees
are working around the clock to enamor
Greyback .'

The article was followed by a recap of Greyback and the crimes that had landed him in Azkaban in the first base place, along with a nasty photograph of him. Even in his human form he looked rather wolf-like, which was such a drastic contrast compared to Matt, who did n't resemble a Hugo Wolf at all, save for his eyes. Albus glanced up from the article and his eyes fell on flatness 's. They had a yellowish tincture to them, with flecks of gold amidst their cancel blue colouring. They were indeed the only wolf-like trait he possessed when the Sun Myung Moon was n't wax.

"This is why mass want nonindulgent werewolf control law of nature,"mat said quietly.

"Even those could n't have stopped this,"Albus pointed out.

"citizenry wo n't think about that. All they 'll call back about is how their children are n't rubber, and they 're right. It 's just filthy timing. Laurentis is going to use this to her advantage."

Albus wanted to ensure mat that everything would be all right, that Laurentis would n't shove off everything out of proportion, but he could n't. He knew that Matt was right field, that Laurentis would once again use a frightful disaster to draw Thomas More documentation from the wizarding man. If his uncle Percy was going to support a chance against her, he was going to have to drastically change his effort scheme.


A/N : So I just realized that I uploaded the haywire chapter final Friday. This is the real chapter 25 and the one I uploaded end Fri is chapter 26. Sorry about that !


The thing about werewolf flack was that they were only able-bodied to bechance once a month. There was absolutely no chance of a loup-garou flak during the rest of the month, so it was wanton for the Hogwarts students to soon forget about Fenrir Greyback, or at to the lowest degree get-up-and-go him into the furthest corners of their minds. After the initial article about Greyback 's flack on the two young shaver, the paper returned to its common election insurance coverage, although both candidates were being very quiet about the onrush. Neither Hotspur nor Laurentis made a instruction, which did n't surprise Albus. The debate on rule of magical animal was scheduled for Saturday, so both nominee would reach instruction then. There had been a few editorials in the paper written by citizenry pushing for stricter wolfman laws, but that had been it.

Saturday was also the day of the next Hogsmeade trip, and this gave the Hogwarts students a much needed misdirection from the away world. Word spread amongst Albus 's cousins that James River was once again taking Gabby Ellis to Hogsmeade, and quite a few of his other first cousin had dates as well. Albus himself did not, and was planning on spending the day with John, Kaden, Rose, and Amanda. Matt had arranged to attend the debate with his dad, and would leave out the misstep.

"Are you sure you want to go to this debate ?"Albus asked matt as they played chess in the Marauder 's Den.

"What ?"mat asked, turning to Albus. He 'd been staring at the rampart under the guise of taking his turn for the yesteryear five minutes.

"You were zoning out,"Albus said."I asked if you 're sure you want to go to that debate Saturday."

matt had seemed distracted all calendar week and whether it was from grayback being so near during his transformation or the upcoming argumentation, Albus did n't know.

"Yeah, I 'm sure enough,"Matt said."I 'd rather hear it straight from her than say it in the Prophet."

"What about your dad ?"Albus asked."Is he going to speak out against her if she wants stricter police ?"

mat shrugged."I do n't know. That did n't work too well in Australia."

The door to the Den burst heart-to-heart and John Lackland and Kaden came barging in, both wearing identical smiling. It was slightly uncanny, how interchangeable they looked.

"We 've finished,"John the Evangelist announced.

"Finished what ?"Albus asked. He was slightly worried. It was never a good sign when can and Kaden were that happy about something.

"Our joke,"Kaden answered."We 've finished planning. We 're not quite sure when to do it, though."

"Yeah, any prompting ?"John asked."Or are you two still being all prefecty on us ?"

Albus burst out laughing and turned to lustrelessness, who smirked."Prefecty ?"Albus repeated.

"Yeah,"John said."Everyone knows it 'll be one of you who makes prefect following year. And you 're getting started early by not liking our pranks."

"We just do n't want detention again,"matte explained."Honestly, I could n't care to a lesser extent if you prank the Slytherins. Malfoy 's a git. harlequinade him all you want."

"Are you sure you do n't want to know what it 's going to be ?"John asked.

"No,"Albus said.

"Not a chance,"Matt said.

John shrugged."All right. But when should we do it ?"

"Let 's just postponement and see when the time feels right,"Kaden suggested."It 's not, er ... time-sensitive ...."

Saint John the Apostle and Kaden burst out laughing."Sure,"whoremonger said."Not time-sensitive at all."

Albus and Matt exchanged a glance.

"We could tell you why that was so funny,"John said.

"Or you could just wait and see like the rest of the castle,"Kaden added.

"We 'll wait,"Albus said. He was curious about it, but not curious enough to possibly weave up with another week 's hold.

Whatever the buffoonery was, John and Kaden did n't implement it before the next day. Saturday brought blue skies and bitterly cold-blooded temperatures and Albus put on two Weasley pinafore in homework for walking around Hogsmeade.

Matt left early for the debate, Flooing from prof Longbottom 's field. Albus and King John slept deep and met Kaden, Rose, and Amanda in the Great Hall for a quick luncheon before setting off for Hogsmeade.

The February Hogsmeade trip was always an interesting one. The Village became filled with young couples either snogging passionately in nominal head of the shops or staring awkwardly at each other across a table in the Three broomstick or gentlewoman Puddifoot 's. Having never been on a date before in his life, Albus found it really comic to follow. privy and Kaden found it amusing as well, but rose wine and Amanda seemed to stare wistfully at the couples and did n't regain them at all funny.

"Where to first ?"Albus asked.

"Not Madam Puddifoot 's,"John said immediately, grimacing as a few love-struck couples headed toward the place.

"I plan on never setting human foot in there,"Kaden said."I do n't worry how many girls ask me to go there with them."

John laughed."You 'd have to get a young woman to like you first."

"Shut up,"Kaden said."Let 's just go get some Butterbeer."

The residuum of the group agreed and they were soon crowded around one of the only empty tables in the III broom handle. Albus was hoping to catch a coup d'oeil of James because despite the fact that James had been out with Gabby Ellis before, Albus could n't get over the fact that his brother was going out on engagement. It was just weird.

After finishing their Butterbeer, the grouping went to Honeyduke 's and Weasleys'in order to stock up on Skiving Snackboxes and coffee Frogs. By then it was nearly dinner party clock time and they decided to bid it a day. The hint was picking up and none of them fancied being caught in a storm.

"Albus !"John shouted just as they were setting off on the path back to the castle.

"What ?"Albus asked, turning to see what John was pointing at.

"James and Gabby Ellis,"John said.

Albus squinted and just made out his Brother, leaning against the outside of Honeyduke 's, his mouth attached to Gabby Ellis 's. They were so finale that they almost looked like one person.

"Oh my God,"Albus said quietly.

"That is disgusting,"Rose added."I could 've gone my entire life without seeing somebody snog James."

John and Kaden were both laughing."Looks like they 're enjoying it,"John said.

"Oh gross !"Albus exclaimed as he turned back to the path."Let 's go."

"I think it 's good to say they 're together,"Amanda said as they walked back.

"What she could possibly see in James ..."blush wine muttered.

"Well, he does flirt Quidditch,"Amanda pointed out.

"So do over half my full cousin,"Rose said."So does Albus."

"Can we change the topic ?"Albus asked."Please. C'mon, let 's hurry up. I bet Matt 's dorsum from the debate."

That seemed to get his champion'minds off of James 's romantic life history. Albus himself wanted to put the mental image of his brother kissing individual out of his mind forever. At least she was a Hufflepuff and he 'd never ingest to see them kissing in the common room. If he did he may hold to spend all of his prison term in the marauder 's Den.

dinner party had n't started yet when they arrived at the palace, so the chemical group decided to go receive Matt first. They found him right where Albus figured he 'd be, in the Marauder 's Den. Albus was slightly nervous about what had happened at the public debate, but Matt was sitting on the couch casually reading his Charms book, seeming hardly upset at all.

"How was Hogsmeade ?"matte asked as he set his book down.

"Disgusting,"Albus said as he sat down succeeding to matt. John, pink wine, and Amanda pulled up chairs.

Matt raised his supercilium."Disgusting ?"

"We saw James snogging his new lady friend,"Rose said with a chill."cartel me, there 's nothing pleasant about seeing the boy you remember eating a mud pie kissing a missy while pressed up against Honeyduke's."

lustrelessness laughed."I have n't got any first cousin, so I 'll take your intelligence for it."

"Consider yourself lucky,"Albus muttered."But what happened at the debate ?"

"It was n't as bad as I thought it would be,"lustrelessness said."wellspring, okay, parts of it were n't as bad as I thought they 'd be. It was at the Ministry, in one of those court rooms in the cellar. Mostly it was masses who work at the Ministry there, but there were some early people there, too, because the way was so big.

"I 'm not sure how much you know about the Department for the regularisation and controller of Magical Creatures, but every puppet is divided into one of three categories. existence, Spirits, and animal. sprightliness are ghosts and poltergeists and boggarts. organism are creatures that are n't human, but have human intelligence service. Beasts are everything else. The fella who was running the disputation started by asking Percy and Laurentis how they feel about the rights given to being. You know, hobgoblin, house-elves, Centaur, those sorts of creatures. They did n't let much to argue about that because neither of them think any of those creatures should have their rightfield taken away. And Rose 's mum has worked so hard to get them right field.

"Then they moved on to the disembodied spirit variance and there was n't a lot controversy with that, either, since there 's not a great deal that can be done about disembodied spirit. They 're just sort of there. specter do n't harm anyone and poltergeists it all depends on the specific poltergeist. Laurentis brought up the issue of Peeves, which was odd, but Sir Henry Percy did n't seem to induce an persuasion on Peeves."

Albus had n't expected much controversy with the Being section. There had been a lot of debate vertebral column and Forth about the rights of organism back when his parents had been in school and his aunty Hermione had dedicated her work life toward giving rights to Beings, especially house-elves. Over the days she 'd done a very good job with it and had n't met much confrontation. As for the flavour division, Albus did n't think there had ever been very much controversy there. Ghosts were just ghost. They pretty much did as they pleased.

Matt paused."Then there was the Beast division. Throughout history both loup-garou and vampires have sometimes been in the Being air division and sometimes been in the savage division. Classification in the Beast division is the rationality why werewolves have been stripped of their right wing and how the Ministry can get away with it. If they 're not seen as being, then legally, they do n't have got to be given the Lapplander right as humans. It 's a technicality, really.

"A prospicient fourth dimension ago wolfman were in the organism division, but they got reclassified in the 1950s, after a huge werewolf plan of attack on an total town. It was horrifying. But ever since then, no one has wanted to classify them as organism again. My dad has been an counsellor for categorization as beingness ever since he started in Australia.

"The affair about classification is that, for the most part, Ministries all over the world have to agree. That 's why reclassification is such a time-consuming and difficult affair to do. soul has to bring it up and coordinate dialogue between countries and it requires a lot of drive. When Voldemort came to mogul no one in Britain had the metre or energy to put toward the reclassification of loup-garou. Not to mention they could n't dispense with the people to put the time into it. Since the barbarous attack in the 50s happened in England, the other countries have n't wanted to tinge the idea. Although I 'd play that Australia would put up a undecomposed engagement if it was ever brought up again.

"So, basically, my dad has been trying to do this for ages, but he does n't experience the support. Even curate Hartwell has n't wanted to touch it since it 's such a controversial issue and he does n't have much meter left."

"Wow,"Albus said."Binns did n't learn us any of that in story of Magic."

"And he probably wo n't,"flatness said."It 's not a well-known issue since most people probably do n't handle to put in the effort to reclassify werewolves. The exclusively hoi polloi who 'd want to are werewolves."

"That 's awful,"Amanda said."But what happened at the disputation ?"

"The superstar in kick of the debate dodged the question of Greyback for a while, asking dubiousness about former creatures like thestrals and dementors and the like. But he finally brought up the matter of Greyback and Laurentis basically said that it was n't a matter of werewolf control law of nature, but a matter of Azkaban security-"

"wellspring, that 's dependable,"Albus said. He would n't hold expected that of Laurentis.

"kind of,"lustrelessness replied."I have n't finished. Anyway, your uncle agreed with her, but he of course of study said that putting the dementors back would be stupid. Laurentis said that if the dementors had been there then Greyback would n't have escaped and those shaver would 've been safe. Then they started arguing about Azkaban and dementors again. But the bloke in charge cut them off.

"Then he finally brought up the fact that my dad 's been pushing for the reclassification of lycanthrope as Beings for years and how he 's got the financial backing of pink wine 's mum and asked what their belief of it was."

"But if my mum was able to facilitate house-elves and goblins, then why could n't she do it for lycanthrope at the same clock time ?"rosebush asked.

"House-elves and goblins have always been classified as beingness,"Matt explained."They were being denied rights that they technically already had. It was just a topic of reworking the practice of law and enforcing them properly. None of the werewolf rights laws can be changed unless their classification is changed-"

"But that 's just stupe,"bathroom said.

Matt shrugged."It is, but there 's aught anyone can do about it."

"wellspring, what did Laurentis say ?"Albus asked.

"Laurentis said that reclassifying loup-garou as existence would render the current wolfman ascendancy law unenforceable and that it would collapse the Ministry far less control over werewolves. Which is truthful,"Matt said."Not that it would be a bad thing."

"Of course not,"Albus agreed.

"Then she said that if werewolves were currently classified as existence it would hold it unmanageable to even catch Greyback and prosecute him for what he 's done, which is n't true up at all. My dad was turning purple at this point. She really knows nothing about the way his department works."

"What about Uncle Sir Henry Percy ?"Rose asked.

Matt did n't say anything for a fully minute."He was n't as bad as Laurentis, but well, your uncle does n't want to change anything. I 'm sure you 've noticed that he says everything 's OK the way it is and we do n't demand to interchange anything, whether it 's Azkaban or Hogwarts. He thought the Saame about werewolves."

"What do you intend ?"Albus asked."He thinks that-"

matt averted his gaze, looking at Kaden rather than Albus and Rose."He thinks that 'putting energy into reclassifying werewolves as organism would be a wretched approximation, given the other issues facing the greater wizarding community .'And that is a train quote. I ca n't ever forget that."

Albus wished he was surprise. He really did. But the fact remained that Uncle Percy did n't like to evoke the cauldron, so to speak. If matter were working the way they were, he would n't change them. He 'd rather keep things the same then mouth out openly either for or against anything, if it would cost him support or votes.

"Then he went on to excuse,"Matt continued."He said that werewolf categorization does n't dissemble a large number of witches and wizards and that it 's very complicated and would demand a lot of movement, which is true. But it 's like he did n't think it was worth it, just because it would n't affect a lot of people."

"It does n't surprise me,"Rose said quietly."The election is so soon. I do n't think he 's going to say anything too controversial."

"Honestly, it was almost defective than Laurentis,"Matt said, turning back to Albus and Rose."Sorry. I know he 's your uncle-"

"Do n't justify,"Albus said, suddenly glad he was n't of age and would n't take in to take between the two candidates.

"It 's like he does n't even make a strong vox populi on it. He does n't want to have a firm opinion on it,"matte added."Laurentis at least has a ground. Your uncle does n't even have that. Honestly, Albus, I 've no idea who my parents will vote for now. Same with Amy."

"I do n't know who I 'd vote for now,"Albus said quietly.

"But either way, I do n't think werewolf will get reclassified,"Matt replied."Nothing will pass off without support of the British Minister at this point."

"That 's just not fair,"Amanda said."What exactly does the law say now ? What are you not allowed to do ?"

Matt averted his regard once more. This was another matter that matt had n't ever mouth of before and Albus had n't dared ask.

"Well, technically,"Matt began,"I 'm not allowed to be at Hogwarts."

"What ?"Albus shouted. The rest of his friends let out standardised exclamations of shock.

"But shift 's dad-"rosiness began.

"Not legal,"Matt said."Dumbledore frequently broke the law and that was no dissimilar. prof Kendrick follows the law a bit more but he liked the mind of allowing me to serve. It 's kind of murky, to be honorable. It 's in the law that werewolves can not attend Hogwarts, but at the same time, Hogwarts headmaster have unadulterated control over who they admit. So as long as it 's hold on quiet-"

"But what about Malfoy ?"Rose asked."If he were to let it slip-"

"Then Kendrick would discharge him,"mat explained."And he 'd be allowed to, since it would be detrimental to another student 's education for him to break my condition. I told you ; it 's very murky."

"What else ?"Amanda asked.

"The relief has mostly to do with work,"matte said."Well, that and the Ministry is allowed to keep lycanthrope for questioning about replete moonlight attacks without actually arresting them. Werewolves as prisoner have virtually no rights.

"But anyway, employ. I 'm legally obligated to inform any potential employers of my circumstance. If werewolf were classified as Beings, that would n't be required, because lycanthropy would be seen as a medical stipulation and employment can not be terminated based on a someone 's medical conditions."

"That is the most confusing thing in the existence,"Albus said. His top dog was spinning."How do you keep all that straight ?"

matte shrugged."It 's my life. That 's the other thing, Albus, your uncle really has no estimation how things are run in the Department for the regulation and Control of Magical brute. He 's not really qualified to say what gist the reclassification would have on everything. Because, honestly, it would only affect werewolves."

"That seems obvious,"Albus said.

"So someone can not charter you just because you 're a lycanthrope ?"Amanda asked incredulously.

matt nodded."Does n't even matter if they 're on wolf's bane or not, either."

"What will you do after Hogwarts ?"Amanda asked.

"No musical theme,"lustrelessness said."I 'm trying not to think about that. But this whole pretense to be rule thing that I 'm doing at Hogwarts ? It 's temporary. That 's all there is to it."

No one quite knew what to say after that. Albus certainly did n't. He wished more than anything that his uncle would support the reclassification of werewolves as Beings, despite the fact that it might lose him a few votes. It might even cost him a few not to receive spoken up, because now, Matt 's parents and Amy might not vote for him. But this had such a larger force than just the election. lustrelessness was right ; this was his life sentence, and Uncle Percy and Laurentis were just seeing it as a way to drum up more voting. Maybe Uncle Hotspur was n't the right man for the job, after all. But Laurentis certainly was n't, and since no one else was running, what would happen after the election ?


A/N : Thanks for all the awesome reviews !


The public debate on the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures did not look to be a hot topic of discussion amongst the Hogwarts educatee. Unlike the argumentation on education, this picky debate did not tie in directly to Hogwarts students, and thus there was n't much discussion beyond a few opinions at breakfast the next day. The article on the debate was much Thomas More tame than the premature article, virtually probable because Percy and Laurentis had n't disagreed on the theme. In fact, the clause mostly focused on the dementor issue.

Albus and his booster kept secretive sentinel on the prophesier in sheath there were any updates on the elude prisoners, but the repose of February passed without any sightings or capture. It was kind of strange since the prisoners had to experience been hiding out somewhere. Yet they 'd been loose for nearly two calendar month and the solely one who had been sighted was grayback. Willinson, Umbridge, and the Carrows were nowhere, it seemed.

In the meantime, Laurentis used the lack of captures to her advantage, by publishing a new statement every few years declaring how clumsy the Auror Department was. These assertion were usually followed up with another declaration of how the prisoner would n't bear escaped if the dementors had been in restraint of Azkaban.

When March arrived, the Prophet began putting a countdown until the election at the top of the front line Thomas Nelson Page, every single day.

"Apr motley fool 's Day,"John commented as he pointed to the countdown, which read '29 days .'“ Does n't that seem a bit weird, to do an election on that day ?"

"A piffling,"Albus said."But I doubt the Ministry cares."

"We should do our prank that day,"Kaden said.

"Do n't,"Rose said."Hogwarts is a pollard place. You 'll mess up it up."

"No, we wo n't do it then,"John said as he exchanged a arch grin with Kaden."Want to know why ?"

"Not really,"Albus said.

"They 'll find out soon enough,"Kaden said.

"doe this have anything to do with why you two disappeared all eventide yesterday ?"matt asked.

"Possibly,"John Lackland said."Oh, look at the sentence. We 've got to get to potions."

Kaden burst out laughing."Oh, yes, looks like it 's time for me to go to Divination."

Albus looked at lustrelessness and shrugged. John and Kaden had been laughing at every mention of 'time'or 'clocks'for the past times few hebdomad, but had yet to plowshare why. Albus could only assume that it had to do with their prank.

Albus, Matt, John, Rose, and Amanda said bye to Kaden and headed for the dungeons. Since it was a two-fold grade, Slughorn gave them a potion to brew and sat at his desk grading essays while they worked.

Albus and flatness partnered on their potion and worked quietly, chopping and mixing. Halfway through the secondment division they were chopping asphodel when Matt suddenly stopped.

"Did you hear that ?"he asked Albus.

"Hear what ?"Albus replied. He had n't heard anything.

"Never creative thinker,"lustrelessness muttered."Could 've sworn ... guessing I 'm hearing things."

A few minutes passed and Matt stopped again."I swear there 's something ringing outside. It sounds like an alarm clock."

Albus glanced around the classroom, but cypher else seemed to have heard it. Everyone was working quietly, except whoremonger, who was staring at the doorway for some unknown grounds. Then Albus heard it. The faintest ring.

"Do you hear it now ?"flatness asked.

"Yeah,"Albus said. It was becoming louder, too. The rest of the class was beginning to notice as well, and St. John the Apostle suddenly turned around to face at them. He grinned widely and then returned to his potion.

"It 's their prank,"Matt hissed."It 's got to be."

Nobody was paying any tending to their potions now and a few of them were boiling over. Slughorn got up from his desk and left the elbow room, without saying a word to the class. He returned a few minutes later.

"Bottle your potions as is,"he said."It seems there is some sort of alarm going off all over the castle. After you 're done cleaning up you may depart early."

Albus and flatness worked quickly, wanting to talk to John as soon as they could. They met him, along with blush wine and Amanda, outside the classroom a few minutes later, and headed to the Great Hall. John still had n't said anything.

Kaden was already there when they arrived."Trelawney let us out as soon as the consternation started. I think it was driving her mad. I mean, to a greater extent mad than she already is."

"Are you going to severalize us what you 've done ?"Albus asked as he began making a sandwich.

"Yeah, we might as well,"King John said."We put an alarm system clock inside every exclusive suit of armour and charmed them to go off at five minute intervals."

Albus started laughing."That 's brilliant !"

"That 's actually really well charm study,"pink wine said, clearly impressed.

"It gets better,"Kaden said."The teachers wo n't be capable to sour them off with one spell. We charmed them so they have to be manually turned off. It 's going to conduct them ages."

"I feel bad for whoever 's got Transfiguration succeeding,"James said as he sat down next to Albus."There must be 20 case of armor across the corridor from the Transfiguration Day room. It 's so brassy in there you can barely hear yourself think."

"tinker's dam,"Albus said."We 've got Transfiguration next."

"Look, Kendrick 's standing up. Bet he cancels classes."King John pointed to the staff table.

"silence !"Kendrick shouted."Very amusing prank. It would look that the alarm clocks have to be manually turned off, so I am canceling classes for the afternoon while the staff and prefects turn off all the alarms."

There was a loud sunshine as Kendrick resumed his seat. The stave table was only half-full, as the eternal sleep of them must hold been already turning the warning device off.

"He does n't seem upset,"Albus said."This is actually sort of tame. I thought you were going to get retaliation on the Slytherins."

John grinned."Oh, we are. That 'll fall another day."

After luncheon Albus and his Friend went to the piranha 's Den with the intention of spending the day there, but the incessant alarms quickly grew too annoying. Despite the cold, they decided that outside would be preferred to inside. The nose candy had melted, so they were able to find a dry spot to sit.

"I still hear the ringing,"Matt said as they settled down under a huge beechwood tree by the lake."It 's like my head is an alarm clock. I think if you had done this around the full moon I would 've murdered you."

"That 's why we did n't do it around the good lunation,"John said.

"Really ?"lustrelessness asked skeptically.

John laughed."No. Had n't even thought of that, to be honest."

"We did it today because I had a chronicle of magic trick exam this good afternoon,"Kaden said."I 'm hoping Binns will forget about it."

"It 's soon, though, is n't it ?"John asked.

"The replete Sun Myung Moon ? Yeah, it 's Monday,"flatness answered."I 've been thinking about it. About Rebel. He 's probably going to come back unless the Aurors catch him before."

"Probably,"Albus agreed.

"I had an idea,"Matt said quietly."I think we can help catch them, using my wolfy side."

"As bait ?"Albus asked, shocked."Then you 'd be in danger."

"No, I would n't,"Matt said."I would n't be doing anything different. I 'd just be in the screeching hut like usual. Albus, the predator 's Map label Animagi as their human figure, right ?"

Albus nodded."Yeah, of path. That 's how shift 's dad found out about Pettigrew."

"Well, should n't it be the same for lycanthrope ?"lusterlessness asked.

Albus had n't thought about that before. In all his meter of having the second edition Marauder 's Map, he 'd never checked the Shrieking hovel during a entire moon."I think it should."

"Then all the Aurors have to do is watch the new edition of the piranha 's Map during the wide-cut lunation, waiting for Greyback to record up, and then catch him."

Albus thought for a few consequence. It seemed so simple, almost too unproblematic to influence."Matt ... that 's brilliant."

"When did you believe of this ?"Rose asked.

"Few weeks ago,"Matt answered."Calidris canutus was there by the Shrieking Shack for nearly the entire night. It would 've been well-fixed to capture him if someone just knew he was there."

"time lag,"rosebush said, looking at Albus."You are n't proposing that you do this, are you ? Because that would be stupid."

"Of course not,"Matt said."It would be my dad and Albus 's dad."

"I do n't think my dad 's in charge of the knot capture,"Albus pointed out."It 's that former Auror, Newman."

"If I 'm going to go along with this and tell them my plan then it 's got to be your dad,"lusterlessness said adamantly."He already knows I 'm a wolfman. Paul Newman does n't. I do n't screw what he 'd do if he knew there was a werewolf at Hogwarts."

Albus thought back to what lusterlessness had told them about how it was n't unclutter whether admitting wolfman to Hogwarts was legal or not."All right. That make sense."

"But why are you so sure he 's going to come back to this Sami post ?"Amanda asked."If he were smart he 'd transform someplace completely different."

"He 's got a hangup about werewolves pretending to be human,"mat said quietly."He thinks that we 've all got to embrace our wolf-selves and live together in packs. I do n't call up he 's going to give up easily on finding me. He did the same matter with Teddy 's dad."

"Then he might be transforming near those kids he attacked net calendar month,"Rose pointed out."They should station Aurors there, too."

flatness nodded."Let 's go send some owls."
***


Albus and lustrelessness did n't say much in their letters to their Church Father, wanting to save most of the contingent for later. Both of them replied saying they would meet the boys at Hogwarts Fri evening in order to make for out the contingent.

The week went by very slowly and Albus noticed that Matt drew quieter and quieter as it progressed. He never said it out loud, but Albus had a feeling he was incredibly queasy about the plan and his use in it, despite his saying he would be fine. By the time Friday arrived he was completely silent, except for the few metre he snapped at John and Kaden for being irritating.

"You know if this plan actually works and Limnodromus griseus is captured it 's going to make Uncle Harry depend very dear,"rosebush said."Which will be skilful for Uncle Percy."

"I thought of that,"Albus said."And since the election is only three weeks away, it 's perfect timing."

"When are you meeting your pop ?"John asked.

"seven,"Albus answered as he glanced at his scout."We should probably go."

Albus shoved the last pungency of his cake into his mouth and left the Great entrance hall with Matt at his English. Professor Longbottom had leant them his study for the meeting, so Albus and Matt walked up to the fourth floor.

professor Longbottom was n't there when they arrived but the room access was partially open. Albus led Matt inside and they sat down on a couch to wait. Albus had always loved Longbottom 's bailiwick. It was filled with all sort of exotic industrial plant that you never wanted to reach because some of them bit. The piece of furniture was mismatched and the whole place was pleasantly cluttered. It felt very safe.

Harry and Walter walked in a few minutes later and exclude the door behind them. Both looked very intrigue and slightly confused.

"Al,"Harry said as he gave his son a quick hug."What 's going on ?"

Albus glanced at Matt, who had just been let go of by his own father. This was his programme to explain.

"I know how you can catch Rebel,"Matt said quietly, and then proceeded to excuse the entire programme."See ? Good plan, right ?"

Harry and Walter exchanged coup d'oeil. Bruno Walter looked incredibly worried."Matt, feeling, I know you want to help and I know the fact that greyback 's out there scares you out of your mind-"

"I 'm not that scared,"Matt interrupted, but everyone in the elbow room knew he was."Look, he 's going to come in to Hogsmeade anyway. You might as well be there waiting for him."

Walter sighed."Yes, I suppose you 're right-"

"So what 's the trouble ? I 'll be in the Shrieking Shack with all the Aaron Montgomery Ward up."

"There really is n't a problem,"Bruno Walter said."It just sounds bad on the Earth's surface, me using my son as hook. What do you call back, Harry ?"

"I think it 's up to you,"Harry said."You 're in flush of this search. I 'm not even on it. I assigned it to Newman."

"Newman ca n't be there,"Matt said quickly as he turned to his dad."He ca n't be. He does n't be intimate about me."

"He 's right,"Walter said."It 's got to be you and me if it 's going to be anyone. Whoever works this is going to find out there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts."

Harry sighed and began to pace the room."I had n't thought of that. But there 's got to be more of us. I 'll lend Ron in, and Teddy."

"Ron ?"Matt asked.

"Rose 's dad,"Albus explained."My uncle."

lustrelessness breathed a sigh of backup man."Oh, all right on then."

"They 'd be fine,"Walter said."Four of us should be able to address it. What about those kids in Little Shingleton ?"

"I 'll arrogate Newman to them,"Harry decided."And you can pick a few hoi polloi form your department to go with him."

Walter nodded."What about the villagers ? We ca n't fall around the scream shack all night. It 'll see suspicious."

Albus suddenly remembered the map. He pulled it out of his pocket and handed it to his dad."Use the map. Then you can watch until he gets there."

Harry grinned."I 'd forgotten about this."He turned to Walter."Map of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, created by my dad, Canicula Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew. It shows where everyone is, so it should show us when Calidris canutus turns up. We can wait at the Hog 's Head until then. No one there will pay us any attention."

"And in the report card ? In the theme the side by side day ?"Walter asked.

"No cite of Matt or his being in the Shrieking Shack,"Harry said."We 'll say we got an anonymous tip that he 'd show up in Hogsmeade."

"Can I wait with you ?"Albus asked.

Harry laughed."Absolutely not. You 'll stay in the palace, where it 's safe. I believe they 're doing a compulsory early curfew again ?"

Albus nodded. They 'd put up posters in the common suite a few twenty-four hours ago. This sentence, no one seemed knock over about it.

"I wish they 'd do it in Hogsmeade,"Bruno Walter said."But getting something like that set up takes weeks."

"well, if the great unwashed are voguish they 'll stay inside with Barbara Ward up,"Harry pointed out.
***


Never before had Albus heard so many people talking about the full lunation. All weekend, everywhere he turned, he heard someone mentioning either the wide-cut Moon or Johnny or both. Suddenly, werewolf were the hot topic of discussion at Hogwarts.

Most people, from what Albus could gather, did n't have a strong opinion on werewolves one way or another. But a few people, virtually having had a relative murdered by Fenrir Calidris canutus, told anyone who would listen how happy they were that neither prospect wanted to convert the classification of loup-garou from Beasts to Beings. It only took flatness overhearing one of these conversations to determine to expend the balance of the weekend in the Marauder 's Den.

"It 'll all be over in three weeks,"Amanda said."Once the election takes place no one is going to care as much. But these past few weeks have certainly made me marvel if I should go into the department for the regulating and Control of Magical Creatures."

It was Billy Sunday Night and Albus and his friends were in the predator 's Den, yet again, working on their preparation that was due tomorrow.

"You could work out with my dad,"Matt announced from the couch."That 'd be weird."

"well, it 's just terrible,"Amanda said."And it does n't make sense. Why should goblins and house-elves be organism but not werewolves ? You 're more man than a house-elf."

Matt laughed."Tomorrow night I wo n't be, and that 's what it comes down to. House-elves are n't that dangerous. Werewolves are."

"I do n't cognize,"Albus began."When my dad was a second twelvemonth a house-elf charmed a Bludger to break his arm. That 's fairly dangerous."

"What about vampire ?"pink wine asked."I ought to owl Linda."

"Vampire are Beings,"matte explained."It 's because they do n't have to drink human origin to pull round. It 's a option. lycanthrope, when we bite someone, it 's not a choice. We ca n't control it."

"Except with Wolfsbane,"rosebush pointed out.

"Yeah, and maybe if somebody invents Wolfsbane that works for all lycanthrope we might get reclassified,"lustrelessness said.

"What about vampire who bite hoi polloi ?"Amanda asked.

"They 're put in prison house,"mat said.

"So can vampire go to school and book jobs ?"Kaden asked.

"I suppose they could. Linda went to school. But they live forever so most do n't want to go to school or already have, because most vampires are older. As for line of work, they do n't hold to tell employers what they are, so yeah, they could."

"It 's so bloody confusing,"John said."Does n't make a bit of sense."

"It really does n't,"Matt said with a yawning."But it 's life."

mat slept the relaxation of the eventide and about of the next day, not attending any of his classes. Albus could n't blame him, what with all the loup-garou talk that was going around the school. Albus himself found it difficult to concentrate on any of his socio-economic class or prep since there was the distinct possibility that Fenrir Limnodromus griseus would be captured that night.

Albus and his friends reported to the common room at five, as per the curfew, and then went to dinner. lusterlessness did n't get together them. He was gone when they returned. Albus gave up on prep for the night and played a few tepid unit of ammunition of Exploding cinch with John and Kaden before deciding to go up to his student residence early. He knew he would n't log Z's, but figured it would be slightly more productive than cleaning ash off his face.

Instead of sleeping, Albus sat in the windowsill and watched the sky. It was shed light on, giving him a very goodness eyeshot of the stars. After locating a few constellations Albus watched the horizon and the faint glow that was above it. Then, the moon rose.


A/N : So, some of you may sustain noticed that I screwed up lastly hebdomad 's update. I accidentally skipped chapter 25 ( Full Sun Myung Moon Attacks ) and went right to chapter 26 ( look, Beings, and Beasts ). If you have n't already done so, go back and record the real chapter 25. The story will make much more than sense after that.

I am pleased to announce that I have finished this story ! It topped out at 37 chapters. I may start updating this twice a week, but have n't quite decided yet. A lot of you are asking in reviews when the next update will be, so I 'll reiterate that I update every Friday. The exact time will vary. Thanks for all the reviews !