Chapter 54 : Who to conceive ?

A/N : Sorry for the delay in getting this out, I had an accident with my flash drive and everything on it was deleted including the first muster of this chapter. But thing are on track now, so getting back in the cut of things, a rewrite of the chapter from the beginning… Read, review and enjoy !





After taking Simon Zelotes's wand and returning Luna's to her, Harry left the boy magically bound on the sofa with Jacey to watch over him. Allowing him to gently deplume her down the hall to the dusty bathroom, Luna perched on the edge of the deep Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the lilliputian storage locker. At last he came up with an ancient first aid kit, pulling out gauze and tape before reaching out to turn the faucet on the sink. They were both surprised when pee actually came sputtering out, a rusty color at first that quickly turned refreshingly clear. She took the hand he offered her and let him carefully clean the blood from her wrists… she knew he was angry and did her best not to flinch or let on that the undercut stung like loony. After all, she was the one who let her scare overwhelm her to the gunpoint where she'd struggled so violently against the ropes. Simon the Zealot hadn't seemed at all purpose on injuring her, she could ingest just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to bechance rather than fight her dressing to the point where she cut into her skin. It was her own fault she'd mystify scathe at all.

He shouldn't have gone so far as to tie you up in the for the first time place. Harry argued with her thoughts as he leaned down to snog her now freshly bandaged wrists.

well, let's go see what he so badly wanted to tell us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her fingers through his pilus in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to tranquillize down and make the need to defend was over, to deliver an exposed mind and really listen to what Neil Simon had to say. Her imaginativeness was becoming clearer to her now that she been able to sneak a few peeks into the boy's intellect. He was out to betray his baby before she could betray him and apparently the superior of their short sib squabble would become Harry's ally. From her warning she knew Harry was already leaning toward Elanya if not Elise and Sarah… and that had to be because of what they'd seen in Erebos's head. But they obviously needed the unscathed news report and Paul Simon seemed uncoerced to provide it.

Together they walked back into the living-room and Luna was relieved to happen that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Herbert A. Simon was alarmed by the fact that a strange female child now stood where Tristram once was he gave no indication. `` I'm sorry Luna. '' He blurted out as soon as he saw her.

'' That's easy to say now that you've been caught. '' Harry muttered, glaring at the boy as he slumped down on the other lounge. `` So ? Let's hear it, what's this big revelation you have to contribution with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the ski binding enchantment ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Simon pleaded.

'' Your Word doesn't mean much to me at the import. '' Harry returned, refusing to give up the spell.

Simon sighed and nodded. `` Yeah, I guess I can see why. ``

'' Just severalize us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting following to Harry and locking her gaze on Simon. She pushed the feelings she wanted to design outward and watched as both boys visibly relaxed, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the only one aware of this little spare magnate of hers. She just wished she had better control of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the hellhole you were thinking when you decided taking us hostage was the best way to constitute your power point. '' Harry crossed his arms, refusing to be lulled into equanimity and shaking off the effects she was trying to circularise around the room.

'' Big gesture are the entirely way to get people to listen. '' Simon said quietly repeated himself from in the beginning. `` Like I said, that philosophy worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these eld. I wasn't going to hurt either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to stay fresh you listening rather than attacking me… I guess I figured that if you saw how good I was you would think me. I was going to let you into the classroom, but you let yourself in offset. '' He looked at Harry almost accusingly, clearly implying that he blamed Harry's rashness for so many matter going wrong.

'' What did you really require me to do when you go around tying people up ? '' He returned angrily. Luna reached out and grabbed his arm to maintain him from leaping to his feet in indignation… she knew they all had to stay rational and sorting through this, it was important.

'' It doesn't thing, you'll never believe me now. ``

'' Why ? Because you are now the confined one instead of them ? '' Jacey scoffed from her home leaning against the wall.

'' You can trust that one or all of us will know whether you're telling the truth. '' Luna quietly assured him.

Simon slowly nodded. `` Yeah, I guess you're right… I do know that about you. And so does Elise, which is why she had to plan so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to figure it out… so that you would search his head teacher and find the computer storage of her asking him to set up Elanya. She knows about your powers and so she's decided to use them against you. '' He said with a sly smile before looking right at Jacey. `` Except for you, they have no mind about you. Elise has had Erebos trying to find out, but apparently Dumbledore has been very heedful to keep you and former visitor a hugger-mugger from those professors he doesn't confidence. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no thought about you though they'd very much like to find out. ``

'' You don't need to worry about her or who she is. '' Harry said, noting to Luna and Jacey that they had to be careful not to say her name in front of the boy. `` Just distinguish us why you've apparently decided to wrick on your sister. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's biography. '' Marvin Neil Simon looked down sadly. `` I was less than a yr old when our parents were killed… even after Voldemort was gone they, like so many others, refused to block combat and were cornered. rather than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to toss off them. Elise was xvi at the clip and the only living family I had. Rather than take charge of me, she decided to dump me at the orphanage, but she would at to the lowest degree come sojourn every class on my birthday. When I was ten she came back for me, fix to take her place as my guardian. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to school and she was hoping to mold me into someone she could use to pop out setting up her plan. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to come back and that his followers were doing everything in their mightiness to make water it happen. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would crap her own shoes in the humankind. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our family, she was livid. But then she figured Hufflepuff was better as no one would suspect me there. For yr I did everything she asked me to do because she threatened to result me again if I didn't and all I knew was that I never wanted to go back to the orphanage. But everything she wanted seemed harmless and naught she asked of me made any sense… not until this class. ``

Simon the Canaanite shook his forefront and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a letter of the alphabet the last hebdomad of school this by summer from Elise telling me we would be departing for Australia the minute I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the gear station so I went home and wound up overhearing a meeting between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the shadow Lord into thinking it was his idea to find Sarah Elaine… and then I heard her tell him that she planned to kill me as I was going to examine more useful to them numb. I didn't know what to do, I was more terrified of my sister in that present moment than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarier, the sword or the technical handwriting wielding it ? And she knows how to act him very well. So I went with her to Australia and I continued to follow her orders hoping she would shift her brain. But she didn't because a few days before I was supposed to make out back to school day I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to pour down me while I'm home for the holiday break and make it look like someone else did it. My own sister was going to drink down me and use my corpse to embark on a fight. What could I do ? Even if I ran away, they'd just bring me right back to her, I'm only 16. And who besides the people involved in this hale system would believe the tenacious ridiculous story I have to secernate ? So the only thing I could do was reveal her to the people she was trying to overcome… I chose you guys over Voldemort. Maybe Dumbledore was flop about the sorting hat always knowing where people are supposed to go… maybe I'm a in force guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the best mean of survival, I have no estimation either way. I may not the happiest person in the world, but I'm not ready to die either. So I'll tell you whatever you want to get laid about her and her program. ``

'' You said she wanted us to go looking in Erebos's head, that we were supposed to see her set up Elanya… why ? '' Luna asked, her gut telling her this was an important question in terms of Fred's fate. She was trying not to sympathize with Simon, but he seemed to take gotten stuck with a pretty piteous life… but still, there was something about him she found unsettling and so that allowed her to keep some sort of an emotional detachment.

He nodded and offered a smiling. `` You wouldn't believe how long Elise has been plotting. A hanker while ago, after your group and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the mental confusion and looked up the files on every John Major participant on either position. Using that information, she was able to picture out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your friends and Voldemort's allies would react in any spot. Originally we went to Australia this summer to determine a guy named cristal who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a little pub where he liked to write his articles but we never even talked to him… it was like the minute she saw him, she knew he wasn't what she wanted. That's when Elanya approached us. Apparently she'd been living there with her grandmother who had recently passed away and when those two girls met it was the likes of fate had brought them together. She fit in perfectly and Elise instructed her on how to manage Erebos who arrived at the hotel later that day. I guess it didn't affair whether it was Elanya or that XTC guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's part in all of this… but clearly a young pretty young lady would make headway more sympathy. The point was that when you all figured out he was the spy, you were meant to see Elise talking him into using Elanya, you were meant to think she'd been set up and blackmailed the same way they'd done it to your friend Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob story so that he'll take her slope and assist talk you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a mole, to memorise all the secrets about you that they didn't already know. And then Elanya was supposed to begin causing discord among you all to weaken you and make it more probably that you and Harry will vacate your confederation to Dumbledore and the Ministry and come join them. ``

'' So what you're saying is basically that they want to create their own regular army of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his vocalisation heavy with incertitude as he tried to hide the fact that they were doing something very like with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's horror at finding out how close Elise had been to getting her hands on Adam, another coven member. She knew it was crucial that they leave as soon as possible to get down approaching people themselves, before they could be scooped up by someone else.

'' Yes, as ridiculous as that sounds. Why do you think I thought no one else would believe me ? But she wants the both of you to link her and Sarah… and she has big plans to use your friend Fred to do it. ``

'' Except that Fred isn't just going to accept whatever Elanya tells him. He's no imbecile. '' Harry argued.

Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can get whatever she has to be in guild to convince someone of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been able to fool Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to hold out them ? ``

'' They won't have a hazard. We're going to save up him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a appreciation of his arm and she could feel him suit even tenser as he felt more things were growing beyond his control.

'' I wish you luck with that. I really do. '' Simon grinned.

( pause )

Fred had skipped out on dejeuner and intended to walk the beach until well after dark in Bob Hope of avoiding Elanya until tomorrow… tomorrow when Hermione had claimed they would be coming to get him. But had she been here ? He just didn't know what was actual anymore. But whether he'd seen her in his psyche or in real number aliveness, one thing had become clear… he couldn't stay here anymore. No subject what, this was going to be his last night on the island. Should Hermione's bearing prove to be a psychotic belief and no one came for him, then he would encounter his own way out and go to her. He knew he couldn't apparate, he'd already tried and discovered that like Castellumshire, the Gateway Islands also carried anti-apparation appealingness and the simply people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A delightful smell wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling breadbasket to interrupt his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was able to determine that while it was well past lunch, it was still too early on for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped repast that day and cooked such slap-up smelling food for a reason. He was tempted to go into the water to catch up with a Pisces to fry just to disturb her plan but decided he was being ridiculous. He knew Elanya was trying to lure him back to the campsite, but just because he went didn't mean he was letting her win. They both knew he was more than capable of providing for himself, but at the here and now he was too hungry to wait long enough to take hold of and cook his own meal. Besides, he'd just decided that no thing what, this was his live Night here… what could it suffer to drop some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then depart again.

Arriving at the camp he saw that neither the food nor Elanya were out of doors. With a laboured suspiration, he opened the flap of the ordinary bicycle looking tent and entered the impossibly spacious glamor of the inside. `` fountainhead, I guess it's avowedly what they say… the dissolute way to a man's heart is through his stomach. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the delectable counterpane on the ornate table as she sat down. Toying with her seashell necklace, she shot him a seductive smile.

'' Whatever you say. '' He muttered, sitting as far from her as he could before beginning to jam his shell. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by Molly to be completely uncivil. They ate in muteness and he could sense her becoming irritated, it only made him more comfortable.

'' Well, I've decided that in the interest of continuing a civilized conversation we will play a game of variety. '' She announced after a short while.

'' Boy, it sure is easier not to deliver to think for myself… I wish someone had been making my conclusion for me my wholly life. '' He answered sarcastically.

'' Putting your snarkiness aside, I'm offering you a one in a million chance to read me better. ``

'' Who says I want to ? ``

She smiled, ignoring his posture. `` I'm going to let you ask me whatever you want about anything and I promise to evidence you the verity. ``

'' And I'm supposed to trust you ? '' He raised an brow. `` Exactly which one of us do you remember is the crazy one, because I've been casting my vote for you for awhile now. ``

'' Humor can be a great way to deflect anything existent from reaching you. '' She replied steadily. `` semen on, I know you're curious…. ``

And he was. There were quite a few things he'd like her to take in up for him, but how could he hope anything she said ? The just way was to test her by throwing in questions he already knew the solution to. `` Okay, I'll act your petty game. But if I think you're lying to me, I'll just go CV my solitary walk of life. ``

'' bazaar enough. '' She rested her chin on her mitt and stared at him expectantly, wearing a unfeigned smile that reached all the way to her fortunate eye. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the matter that was most on his idea and so the enquiry had burst out of him before he could really plan what he wanted to say.

'' Oh Fred… I'm not doing this to you, I'm doing this for you. '' She dropped her gaze slightly as a hint of sadness overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both prisoners right now, so why not crap our cage the scoop it can be- a beautiful island Paradise ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her result in order to wangle his next question. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to talk about and was in the operation of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was curious, but he forced himself to retrieve that he knew what she was doing.

'' I thought I had fairly bought my way into something when really it was all set up to ensure my future alliance and obedience. '' She answered, lowering her eyes to hide the flash of superfluity that passed through them.

'' Meaning what ? '' He pushed, intrigued despite himself.

Elanya sighed and shook her head. `` I've always considered myself to be pretty clever… I'm sure you used to guess the same about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the last few month with the noble-minded dodging they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The difference being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her attempt to get him to empathise with her.

'' Only because I had no choice ! '' She protested. `` When they told me that I had to admit you away while they set up things in London I tried to get out of it, I really did. But that's when Elise told me the truth, that she'd tricked me and I wasn't even close to coming up even for the assistance they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his plate aside, Fred leaned forward on the table and decided it was time for him to turn the conversation his way so that he could essay her honesty. `` And what did you retrieve you had already done to repay them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to tell him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her estimate in the first gear place. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a long history together and bringing him into things had always been a part of her programme. They set it up so that he and I would run into each other… I had thought I was being so careful, making sure I would go into this not owing anyone anything. ``

'' Who's the spy ? '' He pushed, already knowing the answer… that is if Hermione's legal brief sojourn hadn't been some sort of delusional mirage.

Elanya met his oculus and offered a sad smile. `` Well, what can it hurt ? It's not like you'll be able to warn anyone back at Hogwarts. It's Professor Dolos Erebos. ``

He made sure to bear witness an appropriate amount of surprisal, letting his heart widen and his jaw drop slightly as if this was the get-go time he was hearing this. `` Really ? A professor ? ``

She nodded slowly as she carefully studied him. `` I met with him in Australia and he was everything Elise had told me she'd been looking for. I had thought I was the one convincing him to join us but it was all part of their program to trap me. ``

'' And why would they go through such elaborate meter ? '' Fred was almost trusted she was telling the Truth so far… Hermione had certainly indicated that Elanya may be in problem and now the girlfriend was confirming it. He just didn't know why she was telling him all of this, but he may as well use the place to his reward and learn as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can make their own topographic point in this war and that if they have the right form of people on their side they'll be able to take aim on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her head angrily. `` I was appalled to take that Voldemort's idea to accumulate a psychic Army was actually Elise's brainchild. It was how she got him to help her find Sarah. But they planned to make allies of the people he gathered, to get them to play towards taking over completely. ``

'' So that's how they learned about Luna ? ``

She nodded. `` And Harry ceramicist too. At get-go Elise and Sarah didn't forethought who lived or died in battle while they quietly plotted their own revolt. But when Harry started showing his potential and they learned Luna Lovegood was a seer, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your shop in Diagon alley during the summertime. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely occupy. He'd been wondering for a yearn time the material grounds Elise had targeted his store. `` What do you imply ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a feel of remorse settled over her. `` Voldemort had a visionary named Jasper, he was old and not as good as Luna seems to be. But that didn't topic to Elise, he was all she had and so she'd already convinced him to hold his ultimate commitment to her over Voldemort. He told her that he'd had a imagination that something was going to bring Harry to Diagon Alley alone and that Voldemort was going to make his move against the boy. She worried about the outcome as she wanted Harry on her English, working with Sarah specifically since they portion the Lapplander power… of course, she'd only just found Sarah at that clip. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your shop of firing, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be several Aurors in the expanse. After all, the minister would be sure to respond in full effect to a study of arson at his son's store. ``

He took a becalm breathing spell, trying to wait on the bright side as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon Alley alone that day to face up Voldemort, his last Eaters and the Dementors, there's no way he could have survived. At least Elise's destruction had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd much rather have his shop ruined than his friend dead. After all, they'd already rebuilt the shop… there wasn't another Harry potter laying around. `` I remember reading in the paper that Jasper died rather mysteriously. '' He said at utmost. Of class he hadn't read anything about it, but he recalled Hermione telling him about it during one of their clandestine conversations.

'' There was nada mysterious about it. Jasper made the Lapplander error I did by thought process he was an equalize in their plans. I guess he was scared enough to want to differentiate individual about his vision, but he chose the untimely multitude. He saw his own end though not the hand that brought it to him, and then he saw your friends up at Hogwarts using that silly ring to try and contact him from beyond for information. He thought it was Voldemort that was going to end his life so he went to Elise who saw her opportunity. Sarah may not consume a sceptre, but she has mastered many other skills, first and foremost her astral project. They decided to vote down him so that she could flux with his cognisance and send herself in his lieu when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must have seen something and stopped her protagonist from using the ring. It only made them desire her on their incline more, especially since they'd so hastily engender rid of Jasper. ``

Fred's judgment was reeling. So many thing were coming together now, it was impossible that she wasn't telling him the Sojourner Truth. But his instincts were screaming at him that something deeper was going on. `` Why are you telling me all of this ? ``

'' I don't really know. '' She smiled, crossing her branch and leaning forward. `` I guess I'm tired of you thinking badly of me. I've never gone so long being so thoroughly ignored. Maybe I figured that if you saw that I was as practically a victim of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd treat me amend while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a dupe. '' He stated firmly, once more determined to keep himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the best way to rend of a lie was by mixing in the truth… It was clearly a skill she had mastered.

Elanya looked away, but even in profile he could see a miscellany of shame, regret and wrath settle over her feature. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

He couldn't help himself, he had to know. `` If you were so engrossed on killing your beginner, then why didn't you do it yourself, without involving them ? ``

'' You think I haven't tried before ? ! '' She yelled as she leapt to her feet and began pacing in unrest. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the only one who wanted him dead and he made sure that it was nearly impossible to get to him. I was scared to use my genuine identicalness as his daughter to achieve out to him… I knew that my mother had sent me away and died trying to protect me because he wanted to use me, to hand me over to Voldemort in a ceaseless quest to attain favour from a man who favored no one. I didn't want her to die in vain but it soon became clear that my real name was going to be the solitary thing to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed soul strong patronage me up in case something went wrong. ``

'' And that's what Elise and Sarah promised you. '' He said quietly, watching her grow more overturned as her story went on.

'' It was only after the deed of conveyance was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become jealous of the attention Voldemort was giving the young lady and so he was doing his best to counteract them. They figured there was too good a fortune he'd figure out some section of what they were up to and so they knew he needed to go. They must have tracked me down, found me in Australia… my grandmother had just died and I'd just gone back there to drop her last few years with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the chance to do the thing I'd been wanting for years. ``

Fred had been careful during the whole conversation, wanting to pick up on any house of knavery. For the first clip he found one… her spokesperson had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her gather agitation as she recalled these consequence, but he had the nagging smell that matter hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it matter how she and Elise came to join forces ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these dubiousness and expect any variety of answer. His solitary hope was to go on and go for he could set up it all together himself. `` Do you regret killing your beginner ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to look him straight in the eye. `` Not for a single mo. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more patient and found a way to do it by myself. When I tried to back out of this entirely thing, when I told them I didn't want to be a part of kidnapping you… Elise made it very clear that despite the false evidence I left at the setting, she could very easily tie me to my founder's dying. I have no doubt that she would commit me to Azkaban without a second thought. So I had to opt, a jail cellular phone locked away with the giants or stranded on an island with you. I took the just vocalize penalization. ``

'' But if you hadn't killed Edmund, you never would have had to make that selection. '' He argued.

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could have found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The important thing to notice here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or somebody else, you would possess always wound up on this island. '' She seemed dun. Clearly this wasn't going the way she wanted, he wasn't giving her the response she'd expected…

But then he wasn't going to give up himself to be like all the other people she'd been able to enclose around her finger, he'd always been determined to be hard than that from the first import she'd walked into his store. `` You're probably right… We'll never know though will we ? ``

'' Do you hate me ? '' She asked quietly, taking him by surprise.

'' I thought I was the one who got to ask the dubiousness. '' He said with a queasy laugh.

Elanya smiled. It was a tiresome coyly confident grinning as she reveled in the fact that she'd finally unsettled him. `` And I've answered them all. Can't you answer just one for me ? ``

'' That wasn't part of the deal. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to lean on the edge of the board in front of him. `` You know, there's only two rationality you won't reply. Either you do hate me but you're too a lot of a valet de chambre to say it… though we both know that you're more than willing to tell anyone exactly how you feel about them. So the only other explanation is that you've realized you don't detest me and just can't bring yourself to hold it for some occult ground. ``

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his subdivision as he regarded her with faux authority. `` Or I've simply decided it's C. H. Best not to go through life hating anyone. Of line, I could always ready an exception if you'd charge to promote the payoff. ``

'' Has anyone ever told you that you're completely frustrating ? '' She asked with a tight smile.

'' Many times over. '' He grinned easily, once more bask that he'd managed to riffle her plume by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a walk of life. '' She announced, standing up and taking a oceanic abyss breath. `` I cooked, you can cleanse. '' She added before leaving the tent.

Fred looked around feeling completely off sentry duty. She'd never left him alone in the tent before, which had only led him to consider that she had things to conceal from him here. But clearly her foiling with his deficiency of gullibility had caused an supervision on her behalf and he knew he needed to take advantage of it. He raced to her way, pulling back the flap that separated the blank from the residuum of the collapsible shelter and taking a cursory look around before carefully proceeding to go through everything. Ensuring he returned affair to the way he'd found them, he went through all of her poppycock hoping to come across a communication device of some kind… or even improve, his wand. After a long and thorough hunting, he came up with neither.

( geological fault )

Harry stared at Simon, trying to shape exactly what he thought of the other boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extremes the guy had gone through in order to have a childlike conversation. But then, had Herbert A. Simon been right ? Would they have listened had he simply approached them and asked to talk ? He shook himself out of his thoughts, refusing to let his angriness and confusion make him do anything stupid. `` How do we know that having you tell us all of this isn't percentage of the architectural plan ? '' He asked. After all, if Elise had gone through so much, then why wouldn't she go even a stride further and send in the clown ? Surely she didn't expect them to take Neil Simon seriously even if they did eff he thought he was telling the truth… or at least the trueness as she wanted him to know it.

He sighed and shook his head. `` I had a feeling you'd ask me that. All I can say is that I only know what I've seen and heard. She certainly hasn't told me to come to you and I doubt she realizes I know that she wants to down me. But has she somehow directed things so that I would hail public lecture to you, I just don't know… anything is potential with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's whole plan is to conglomerate as many psychics as she can and then fight both sides of the war, hoping to come out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far more ascendency over herself than Harry could pull off. But he tried to stay calm, to remember that they needed to make out what they were up against… she still had her hand on his arm, trying in vain to help him be successful in relaxing though he could sense her uneasiness at what she was hearing.

'' It's part of her plan. '' Simon the Canaanite seemed a bit unsettled for the first time since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be capable to at least stop her doing me in. And yes, I really believe she'd murder me if it helped her cause… She ensured they got rid of Jasper simply because she wanted you Luna, she knows you're a just seer than that old man ever was, you've already helped thwart hers and Sarah's plans a few times. She was trying to help Voldemort seizure you, though she had no intentions of handing you over… she wants to convince you and Harry both to join her. '' Again he looked directly at Jacey. `` And if she knew you were a firestarter like her, she'd want you too. ``

'' I am not anything like your miserable baby. '' Jacey said defensively as she cupped her hands together and began rolling them until she had developed a sizable fireball between them. She lifted it over her head and brought it down, engulfing her intact body in flame as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more mightily. '' She laughed, extinguishing herself and leaving no denotation that anything out of the ordinary had just transpired.

Simon swallowed hard as he stared at her in disbelief… clearly he'd never seen his sister do something like that before. `` Good. '' He said at last. `` soul should be. They already knew Harry was stronger than Sarah, that's why they had to draw sure enough he lost his business leader before they tried to talk to him. ``

'' You're talking about what happened at Azkaban ? How could they possibly know that they weren't going to vote down me with that Psychohemia potion ? '' Harry asked in exasperation. They all knew Simon was telling them the truth, but he just didn't like what he was hearing anymore now that it was going against what he knew had happened. But then, he was quickly learning from the other boy that there lots of things he didn't know about the things that had been happening to him, his friends and his foe. Elise had apparently been pulling several different train for quite awhile.

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to work for them long before then. '' Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some decision was going to lead you to the prison and rightfulness in social movement of Cho, but it was Elise who made the Dark nobleman cerebrate it was his idea to use Sarah's talents to try and get you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to toss off you, that you were going to get help in time to keep open your life but not your might. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly pour down us at my aunt and uncle's sign of the zodiac. '' Harry replied, hiding the spectre pain in the neck he felt in his handwriting and leg where he'd been stabbed all those months ago. Glancing at Luna out of the niche of his eye, he remembered her face covered in blood after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to prevent Sarah from killing him. `` She didn't seem too concerned with convincing us to join her then. '' He added angrily as everything from that night came back to him including Ron nearly being burnt to a crisp.

'' Yeah well, as I'm sure you've noticed, the lone problem Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the woman is more than a little unbalanced. She was only supposed to torture you, it was your muggle family she was supposed to kill in front of you… on Voldemort's orders, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those the great unwashed she was forced to hold up with growing up and she came to resent you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as unaccented than her and so she alone decided in that bit that she didn't want you to join them. At to the lowest degree, that's how she explained it to Elise after they broke her out of the hospital and woke her from the coma. Trust me, Elise let her bear it for deviating from the programme and nearly killing you both. Anyway, Sarah said she really lost control when Luna came in with the ring… she wanted it and they all knew Voldemort wanted it and so obtaining the ring became her master priority above all else, including her safety as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to capture her for a short time as well as get your power back, she no longer thinks you're fallible. ``

'' I'm flattered. '' Harry said sarcastically.

'' Does she do it that we went into her memories while she was unconscious ? '' Luna asked, squeezing his arm as concern overwhelmed her.

But Marvin Neil Simon stared back at her in surprise, allowing them to instantly relax. `` No, not that I'm aware of. I certainly had no idea you'd done that… what did you see ? ``

'' Do not concern about that, we will be the ones to ask the motion. '' Jacey said with authority.

'' What about Cho ? Where does she fit into all of this ? '' Harry picked up where they'd just left off, thinking that what they had seen in Sarah's head at least confirmed that the young lady were working together behind Voldemort's back.

He sighed and nodded. `` Well, she's plotting with Sarah only. But whatever plan those two had going, it was in place long before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to peach Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the girl would be valuable again once they broke her out of Azkaban. My hypothesis is that if they manage to get Cho out, Elise will find oneself the opportunity to get rid of her as soon as possible. Just because she and Sarah are closelipped confidants doesn't mean they wouldn't betray each early in a endorsement if it meant furthering their own agenda. Loyalty means goose egg to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the magic spell holding him in place. `` volition you let me go now ? delight ? '' He pleaded.

We have to get back anyway… Dumbledore is looking for us and I think we're in a lot of trouble. Luna said. Harry turned to look at her and realized she had that far off verbal expression that meant she wasn't completely present in the room.

'' fine. '' He waved his baton and released the other boy from the binding.

Simon leapt to his human foot to quickly stretch before eagerly reaching into his pocket and pulling out his flaskful from which he took a farseeing gulp. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his sass with his arm. After another gulping he seemed less shaky and nervous.

'' We have to get back to the school, are you going to be okay ? '' Harry asked Jacey.

'' I will be just fine. '' She assured him with an easy smile.

'' What are you going to narrate them about me ? '' Simon asked, suddenly scared again. `` I never intended it to rick out this way ! I was going to unlock the door, I didn't mean value for you to actually damage the schoolhouse ! ``

'' Yeah, this is all my fault. '' Harry rolled his eyes. `` only keep your mouth shut when we get back there and let me do all the talking. '' He reached out and roughly grabbed the boy's arm before apparating back to Hogwarts with Luna a few moments behind them. They were certainly to go far behind Hagrid's hut where the chances of being seen were very slim.

Silently, they all three made their way up to the rook, running into Hermione in the courtyard. `` Where have you been ? And what are you doing with him ? '' She demanded, eyeing Simon suspiciously.

'' It's a recollective story, Mione. '' Harry sighed. `` We'll tell you after we deal with Dumbledore. ``

She nodded and led the way through the halls to the headmaster's office. `` Just so you're mindful, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you entrust school yard. '' She warned them. Sharing a spirit with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the sight of a good student would soften the old wizard's mood. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in Miss sodbuster and then you are dismissed. '' He replied from behind his desk. Hermione let them walk past her before she closed the door and bolted down the stair. Dumbledore gestured to the three chairs in movement of him and waited until they settled themselves. He looked at all of them, but it was clear he was addressing Harry alone. `` What did you call up you were doing damaging the school like that ? ``

'' It was an accident. '' He quietly answered.

'' I have no uncertainty that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his voice shakiness as he tried to hide his anger. `` Why would you do this Harry, when you're so close to being done here ? This isn't something I can cover up for you. ``

'' So don't. I'll go fix it. ``

He shook his head. `` It's not that simple. Like the ministry and certain other buildings, magic isn't enough to remediate the wrong. It must be rebuilt by manus to hold the forcefulness of the charms we place upon our schoolhouse. And even if you did fix it, my custody are tied in paying attention to how we can handle this, especially after I've pushed so hard to have the recently disappeared Tristan Macnair expelled. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' Luna asked nervously.

He sighed sadly. `` I'm saying that after having Miss Patil, Mr. Mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the destruction Cho Chang caused last year, and after all the cumulative trouble that has been caused… I have no choice but to expel you all from Hogwarts for your unfavorable actions, in force immediately. ``

'' You can't ! '' Harry protested.

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in severe wrong to one of our classrooms and then you all left school footing in direct infraction of the code of conduct. I have to take this action before the less true of the Aurors out there decide to try and say that you had something to do with Tristan's escape and endeavor to take on you all into hands for questioning. Should that hap, it's not guaranteed that Arthur will be able to see that you get into the right hands. '' Dumbledore seemed to slump down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a tight property and we must be careful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to find a way to hold back us here ? The Aurors and anyone else could still hail after us once we leave, but if we're here then we're more protect. '' Luna argued.

'' I agree, but if I didn't go through with this, it would be far too wanton for them to impeach me of favouritism and things are too fragile right now. The fragile matter could give them the excuse to boot out me from here and put anyone they choose in topographic point as Headmaster. As you saw close meter, there are too many impressionable vernal minds here to allow for that to befall. I refuse to let this schoolhouse turn a training ground for the succeeding wave of Death Eaters. Everyone must be free to choose the lifespan they want. ``

'' So instead you just throw off away our futures ? '' Simon asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the Order and therefore unable to comprehend the need to hold on matter a certain way so that the mightiness didn't shift in the foe's favor.

Suddenly the role door swung open behind them and lupine came rushing in. `` finish ! It's not their fault, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really await anyone to consider that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it matter as long as there's individual to blame ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… order them that the small fry were working on a project for me and matter went wrong. They left the school to fare looking for me because they knew that I had snuck out to see Tonks and didn't want me to get in bother. That story should be good enough. ``

'' You realize what will happen if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low threshold of tolerance for you. If you take the blame for the destruction to the schoolroom, if you insist these scholar only left school to cover up for you… then I'll have no selection but to give the axe your engagement here. ``

'' No ! '' Harry protested, leaping to his feet.

Lupin reached out to grab his shoulder joint, using his considerable strength to force Harry back into his president. `` I understand the consequences. I accept it. ``

Why are you doing this to yourself ? Harry asked pleadingly.

Because, I feel I owe it to James and Lily to do everything in my great power to take in you finish school. I can't just let you jazz it up with two workweek to go. He answered with a grin. It'll be okay, Harry. I promise.

He held his breath and glanced at Luna and Simon out of the corner of his eye and realized Lupin wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their one-sixth year and he felt shamed that his brash military action may have them to suffer out on their education. Letting out the breathing space slowly, he turned to look at the honest-to-god virtuoso, awaiting his determination along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his clock time studying Lupin before at hold up shaking his oral sex and rising from his seat. `` Okay, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are able-bodied to finish out the final two weeks of this semester, as it will be impossible to replace you on such brusque notice. It's been a joy to have you here. ``

'' It's been wonderful being here. '' Lupin assured him before quickly ushering the stripling from the office before the headmaster could commute his brain. Simon tried to relegate off from the group as soon as they were in the hallway but Harry reached out and grabbed his arm, ensuring he followed them. He still had a few things to say to the former boy. They walked silently down to lupin's office, though the elderly man was the lonesome one who seemed to be in a good mood.

'' Are you sure about this ? '' Harry asked as soon as Lupin closed the door.

'' Of grade I'm sure. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it. '' He grinned. `` I had planned on resigning at the end of this twelvemonth anyway. I really like teaching, but I'm certainly needed elsewhere and like you Harry, I hate feeling locked away here when there are so many things happening out in the world. And with you and Draco departure, there's really aught to prevent me here any longer. Plus I don't like being away from Tonks for so long, her job already keeps us apart so why should I continue to let mine add to the pains when I have another choice ? So you see, I'm entirely positively charged that this is the proper thing to do. ``

'' But you won't exactly be leaving here on the best of price if you take the blame for this. '' Luna argued.

lupin reached out to reassuringly pat her shoulder. `` I have long ago learned to live with other people's misguided view of me. As long as I am in good standing with the people who know me, that's all that matters. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a ringlet of blank lambskin and a fresh quill. `` Besides if I were to stay here, then who would be out there looking after you all when you get yourselves stuck in a niche ? '' He teased, reminding them that this wasn't the number 1 time he'd helped get them out of their own mess. `` Plus genus Draco is going to require counsel in navigating life out in the genuine universe where multitude don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to possess a reason to leave my military position early. The fact that it helps you kids out is just a fillip. ``

'' fountainhead I certainly appreciate it. '' Simon the Zealot said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go also Hogwarts so I'm gladiolus I get to come back. '' He added quickly when he saw the glare Harry had shot him for speaking at all.

lupine nodded and smiled. `` Think nothing of it. ``

'' It just seems unfair that we can't simply explain what really happened. '' Luna said absently as wrapped her weapon around herself.

'' What happened to you ? '' Lupin asked, finally noticing the patch that peeked out from the sleeve of her school robes.

She and Harry shared a glance as Simon the Canaanite looked down at the floor and shuffled his ft. `` Just a slight chance event caused by a childlike misapprehension. '' She said at last, lowering her arms and pulling the hems of her sleeves down.

'' I see. '' He shook his head and sighed. `` To answer your earlier musing… no one would listen if you tried to explain what really happened. It's a drama for world power out there and no one is interested in the truth unless it gets them what they want. Too many things have been happening here, no one would take a educatee's Son on anything when they barely trust what the professors and Dumbledore have to say. ``

'' Especially if one of the students is me, right ? '' Harry asked miserably.

'' It's a sad but on-key fact that adding your name to anything will instantly clear it more rarify. But don't let it bother you, having opposition only means that you've stood up for something important. '' lupine answered with a ennoble smile. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must write to my married woman and inform her that we are soon to go a one income house for awhile. ``

'' You know that you and Tonks always have your room at my mansion. '' Harry offered, feeling it was the least he could do.

'' And we may just have to subscribe to you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The Leontyne Price of snag is ridiculous these twenty-four hours. ``

Leaving him to save his letter, the teen all stepped out into the hall. As soon as the door closed behind them, Harry grabbed Simon up by the straw man of his gown and shoved him back against the wall. `` If I find out that you're somehow setting us up I swear to you that your Sister won't have the chance to hit you because she'll never find your dead body. '' He threatened, wanting to frighten away the boy into revealing whether he was truly trustworthy.

'' I promise I'm not setting you up ! '' He instantly replied, his eyes wide and his heart banging wildly in his chest.

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his typeface in finish to St. Simon's, tightening his bag and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to tell apart someone, descend straight to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my former acquaintance would certainly be the great mistake you'll ever make in your life. ``

Simon nodded in agreement, clearly seeing in Harry's eyes just how often he meant his terror. `` I'll come right to you ! '' He gasped out, reaching up to try and push Harry away.

He released the other boy and simply turned and walked away, knowing Luna was following him and feeling her disapproval. He waited until they were all the way back to his way before speaking to her. `` I'm not sorry about how I dealt with him. ``

She looked at him a mo before nodding slowly. `` O.K.. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you're mad at me… '' He began pacing, feeling all of the energy and adrenaline he'd been building up since she'd first called out to him commence to bubble over as it tried to find some way to escape.

'' Of trend I'm not mad… I'm not sure what I am. This has been a very foreign day and I'm still trying to action it. '' Luna argued, sitting comfortably on the border of the bed as she watched him walk around the room, allowing him to get out some of his pent up frustration.

Harry went to the windowpane and clutched the sill as he stared out over the school day basis. He took several cryptical breathing place before turning back to her. `` But you really are okay, right ? ``

'' I'm fine, just a bit trouble oneself by what we've learned. '' She gently assured him. `` I guess it's even more important that we go get Fred before Elanya has the chance to convince him that her version of events is the Sojourner Truth. ``

'' Couldn't it be ? '' He debated. `` I mean, I know Simon was telling us his version of the accuracy and I believe Elise and Sarah are that cunning. But what if their all plan was tricking him into telling us all of this so we wouldn't believe what Elanya had to say ? What if they really are setting her up and what we saw in Erebos's chief is confessedly ? Maybe they did know we'd figure out who the spy was and that we'd want to depend in his head… what if they used Simon the Zealot to unfold around doubt so that we wouldn't know what to believe ? ``

'' Well, if that's the slip then it seems to sustain worked, at least on you. '' She pointed out, smiling as he stared at her in express muddiness. `` Personally, I think I believe him even though there's something about him that unsettles me… but despite that, I truly think Elanya is very much working with Elise and Sarah. ``

Harry nodded in hesitant espousal. He'd learned his lesson about questioning her intuition, if she thought Elanya wasn't the victim they were trying to portray her to be then that was most likely the way it was. `` Okay, so we go on with the laying claim that she's against us. ``

'' I think that's the safest for us… to arrogate she and Paul Simon both are the foeman until they can definitively prove otherwise. '' She stood and came over to wrap her arms around his waist and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her brain and returned the embracement. `` I have no problem with that. ``

She pulled away and looked at the door. `` Hermione knows we're done with Dumbledore, she's on her way over here. ``

Sure enough an insistent knocking came at the doorway and Harry went to let her in. `` So ? What happened ? '' She demanded, walking in and turning to face them both. Together they pieced together everything that had happened and filled her in completely on what Simon Zelotes had told them and what they'd concluded as a final result. `` You're sure Elanya isn't being set up ? '' She asked, her brass going Edward White as she began to panic.

'' Almost completely positive, what's ill-timed ? '' Luna went over to run Hermione to a chair.

'' It's just that… I so badly wanted to see Fred, to urinate sure he was okay. I decided to practice my astral projection and to my surprise, not only did it work, he was able to see me. '' She answered, nearly shaking as she tried not to cry.

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him cognise we were coming to get him ? '' Harry asked, kneeling next to her and taking her hand in comfort.

'' Yes, but I also told him everything else ! I wanted to tell him that we'd taken care of everything so he could leave without worrying… including that we knew who the spy was ! I told him that you guys found out that Elanya was a victim of Elise and Sarah's plot too… he thinks she isn't the opposition ! ``

'' It'll be fine, Hermione. '' Luna said softly. `` We're going to get him tomorrow. ``

'' No ! '' Hermione leapt to her feet and turned to them in anguish. `` She's making him talk to her now ! He'd been refusing this unanimous time but I saw her imperil to send Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't start speaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to believe that she was just another instrument in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his safeguard down ? What if she's able to convert him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in repulsion as every entailment of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her head. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( breaking )

As soon as it was dark, Fred grabbed his entire bed roster and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the lunar time period, he set everything up and make a small fire, silently thanking his beginner for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a scepter. Sure it was the more difficult way to do thing, but at last his father's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all things muggle had paid off. Once indisputable the blaze had caught, he lay back to see at the star. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her base on balls and the longer she was gone the more certain he was that he didn't want to be there when she did show up.

She'd told him so many matter and enough of it had seemed not only to be likely but made too a great deal common sense not to be true. He was confused… If Hermione had really been on the island, then she'd told him affair that Elanya had completely admitted to. Did it weigh ? And if it did, then why did it affair ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no innocent bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to kill her father, the other girls wouldn't have had anything to allure her into accepting their offer. On the early hand, he was now able-bodied to put himself in her shoes… why wouldn't she want to belt down the man who murdered her mother and was trying to use his own daughter to buy his way into the skillful graces of an wickedness man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to terms with the fact that his niece had killed his comrade and was still bequeath to reach out to the female child as it was clear even to him that she needed to be rescued… if not from Elise and Sarah, then from herself. So if Willem could forgive her, then who was he to adjudicate her ?

Clearly he didn't think as badly of her as he'd thought anyway… why else wouldn't he have just told her hated her ? It was the one thing that bothered him more than anything else. She'd been right in saying that he had no trouble telling multitude that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the but reason… because he didn't hate her. But so what ? Not hating individual wasn't exactly the same as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't trust her as far as he could throw her, but then, did that topic either ?

'' So, you've decided to log Z's under the whizz. ``

He sat up and whipped around to feel Elanya standing in the tree diagram as if his thoughts of her had forced her to materialize there. Her haircloth and frock were dancing softly in the slight breeze and her eye glowed even more brilliantly in the syncope firelight. `` well, aren't you the observant one. '' He said sarcastically.

'' I'm sorry I walked out on you earlier. '' She said, taking a few hesitant steps towards him.

'' Think nothing of it. I'm pretty sure our conversation was about done anyway. '' He brushed her off and lay back down again, closing his eyes and acting as if she were cypher to a greater extent than a pesky disturbance to him.

'' It's so beautiful out here… and so relaxing. You have the ripe mind sleeping here on the beach. Mind if I join you ? '' She called, her voice carrying her amusement.

'' Sleep wherever you want, what do I deal ? '' Fred made sure to sound vex, hoping that if she did sleep on the beach, she would prefer to do it far from him. He heard her soft footfall as she glided through the George Sand and then felt her effort to climb under the covering with him. He sat straight up and scrambled away from her as he got to his feet. `` What the hell do you think you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

'' Well, my blankets are all the way back at the campsite and I'm tired now. '' She looked up at him with a coy smile.

'' mulct, take my stuff and nonsense, it's all yours. I want to go for a float anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the body of water, repeating Hermione's name over and over in his top dog lest he countenance himself to go back and do something stupid.

'' You can't go out there now ! '' Elanya called as she ran after him. `` It's darkness ! There could be sharks or any figure of other dangerous things and you'd never see them coming ! ``

Despite the actual vexation for his safety that he heard in her vocalization, he ignored her and walked straight into the body of water fully dressed. He continued on until his feet could just barely bear on the rear before deciding that was far enough to discourage her from following him. turn, he began swimming parallel with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't care to take the air after him. He could barely see his hand in front of him and realized that is was more than the practice session that was making his heart race. It was very dark out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an subaqueous attack coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards land, crawling up onto the sandy beach and allowing himself to lie there and rest for a moment.

Now more than ever, he was determined to leave the island tomorrow. He couldn't spend one Thomas More day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to block what was tangible and it was becoming more unmanageable not to fall into her stories. All he had to do was get through tonight. Climbing to his foundation, he brushed off as much sand as he could and made his way into the trees to look for some form of shelter. Coming to the base of the tallest heap, he found a shallow cave. Gathering farewell, he quickly made himself a space to sleep before gathering plenty Wood to set about a fervour to proceed him tender. Once again he silently thanked his male parent while hoping that he would get the chance to thank him in person very soon.

( breakout )

Dragon woke already feeling nervous… he didn't like lying to Ginny and while he may not know the demand inside information of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to get laid that she'd be mad to learn they'd kept Fred's possibly being in worry from her. But today was supposed to be the day it would all end and no one would have to lie anymore… at to the lowest degree not about this. It was wide-eyed really, while the professors and about of the students were down at the quidditch sales pitch enjoying the biz between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, potter, Luna and farmer were going to whisk themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever mess he'd gotten himself into. Draco's job was to make for certain neither Ginny nor Ron found out they were gone and more importantly, to restrain them both away from Professor Erebos who potter had said was a spy and to a greater extent than willing to injure someone.

Taking a trench breath, he knocked on Ginny's door. `` Ready to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her robe and pyjama, he realized she hadn't done much since she'd left his elbow room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in answer to the silent facial expression she gave him, closing the threshold as he walked in.

'' I don't want to go watch that pillock game today. '' She said, climbing onto the bed and grabbing her pillow to prehend to her body. `` I don't want to be a division of anything to do with Ron at the minute. ``

'' I guess I can understand that. '' He said slowly.

'' It's been almost a hebdomad ! '' She was clearly frustrated and had her pillow been Ron's neck, she'd have already squeezed the life out of him. `` I just can't conceive he hasn't come around to apologize to everyone for what he said. ``

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering look she shot him, he quickly went on in hope of fixing his mistake. `` I mean, he clearly wanted outer space and said the matter he knew would push you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for ceramist last class. So why would he arrive apologize unless he's ready to be around you all again ? ``

'' wellspring, thank you Healer Draco, the Psychology Boy admiration ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so lots, I'll only charge you half my rule rates for the first-class wisdom I have to lend. '' He teased, quickly moving to catch the pillow she whipped at him.

'' Well from now on you can keep back your two galleons to yourself because your sapience isn't even worth half that ! '' She taunted back, laughing as he ran over to return the pillow assault. She scrambled to grab her other pillow and swung low, catching him in the stomach.

'' Oh ! mastermind hit ! '' He shouted and fell across the bed.

'' Go in for the putting to death ! '' She laughed, quickly kneeling over him and battering him over and over with the pillow. Unable to hold back his own laughter, he tried his well to return the onset. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to wrestle it away from her so that he would be in possession of all the plush ammo.

A bang on the door interrupted their battle and they both looked at each other in surprise as they tried to catch their breath. Ginny lay back on the bed and stared up at him with a coy grinning. `` See who that is, would you darling ? I'm not dressed to receive companionship. ``

He leaned down to kiss her before quickly swinging his pillow one shoemaker's last time, jumping off the bed with a wicked smiling as he avoided her comeback assault. He opened the door and instantly tensed having already been warned that the mortal on the other side was interested in harming Ginny. `` Can we help you professor ? '' He asked, closing the door slightly so that the man couldn't see inside.

'' Isn't it a bit out or keeping for missy Weasley to have got a Male visitor this early ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit incompatible for a male instructor to come unsupervised to a female student's room this too soon ? Especially one who already has a cloud of suspicion around his epithet ? '' He shot back, having been informed of the professor's relationship to Elise McKinney.

'' I've come with a message from the Headmaster. '' Erebos answered defensively. `` Not that I owe an explanation to any student. ``

'' wellspring, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her elbow room all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking care of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a small growling to escape his throat lest the man forget what exactly he was. `` You can give me the subject matter, I'll be sure enough she gets it. '' With his common sense heightened, he was able to hear rustling behind him as Ginny got out of bed and curiously made her way over to the room access. Thankfully she was measured enough to keep herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective billow rushed through him and he knew only one affair, the only way the professor was getting in the elbow room was over his idle body.

'' The master wishing to speak to young lady Weasley in somebody. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to escort her up to his office. ``

'' And why wouldn't he send Professor McGonagall ? '' Dragon asked suspiciously. `` She is the head of the Gryffindor business firm and a much more in all likelihood candidate to approach Ginny on the Headmaster's behalf than some professor wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your socio-economic class. Why would Dumbledore send you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the prof as she'd rather chew her own arm off than study Arithmancy.

'' Again, not that I owe an account to a student- '' He said tightly, clearly frustrated with this song and terpsichore they were engaged in. `` But she is already down at the quidditch slant assisting Madame Hooch with getting the playing area ready for today's game. I was in the Headmaster's office for a merging and so he simply sent me. ``

'' Well, Ginny is just too ill to leave her room. I'm sure Dumbledore wouldn't want to chance her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these drafty hallways. If he needs to state her something important, I'm sure he would feature no problem paying her a sojourn. '' Draco said smugly. He grabbed the bound of the door to shut it but the professor reached out to terminate it from swinging shut.

'' If fille Weasley is in fact that ill, then perhaps she should go see Madame Pomfrey. '' Erebos suggested slyly. `` I know that if I go and tell her there is a unbalanced student she will insist on seeing her. ``

'' That's unnecessary. '' Draco said calmly while holding the door so tightly in his hand he thought the wood would shatter in his grip. `` I asked Healer drake to stop by in the first place. He said it's a bad cold and recommended bed eternal sleep. '' He added in order to thwart the professor's newest attempt to get Ginny out of her way. He was surely Drake would brood for them if requisite, after all, he'd done it many times before. Rather than let Erebos to come up with something else, he used his above normal forte to bang the threshold shut despite the man's attempts to keep it open.

'' What was that about ? '' Ginny asked immediately.

Dragon quickly pulled his wand out of his scoop and cast a silencing appealingness on the elbow room, both as a guard and to try and drag one's feet before answering her. `` Professor Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to start with honesty and go with it until he couldn't. `` They want him to get to you and Ron. ``

'' Why ? '' She asked, sinking down onto her bed in horror and confusion.

'' Well… because they have plans to take away over the ministry. What better way than to use the Minister's children against him ? '' He held his breath. Technically what he'd said was true although that wasn't the reason the man had decided to make a move today. But why worry her further by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the full fib or what exactly her brother was involved in, only that Erebos was one of the sluttish ends the others had had to tie up in rescript to go after Fred at all. He knew they were connected, just not how… but he'd be damned if he let her get hurt or killed because of any of it. Surely if she knew Fred was involved, she would take a firm stand on doing something dangerously foolhardy in an attempt to help.

Ginny shook her head sadly. `` poor people dad… all he wants to do is get to a difference of opinion and now he has to live in unvarying care for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the same could be said for everyone. '' He sat next to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. `` I've surmisal that's just the Mary Leontyne Price you have to pay if you want to brook up for something… the fear of losing everything. ``

We may receive a problem. Draco thought out to ceramicist and Luna.

What happened ? Potter immediately answered.

Draco quickly told them of Erebos's visit and the fact that he wouldn't be leaving Ginny's room at all that day. You're going to need someone else down at the tar looking after Weasley. He concluded definitively, implying that there would be no arguing with his decision to barricade himself in with Ginny.

( BREAK )

Harry had a horrible tone about everything after talking to Draco. Why would Erebos have come to try and get Ginny to go somewhere with him ? What were Elise, Elanya and Sarah planning now ? Whatever it was, it seemed they were just in time to go rescue Fred. At least the trouble of who was going to watch over Ron had been quickly resolved… after a quick cry to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibility cloak and hang around the quidditch tar, just in typesetter's case Erebos tried to get a hold of a different Weasley.

'' I heard the whistle. The plot's started, can we go now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly. She was nearly beside herself with vexation and had been since discovering that she'd given Fred misinformation. She'd attempted to project herself back to the island several multiplication during the night but hadn't been able-bodied to find him again.

'' Both of you grab one of those ling. '' Harry told her and Luna as he tightly gripped his own Firebolt. They had gone down to the pitch with everyone else only to pussyfoot off into the equipment shed to keep from being seen.

'' Why ? '' Hermione demanded impatiently.

'' Because Charlie wrote a book all about how there are flying firedrake on the island. I can't fit you both on my broom and we need to get some way of escaping quickly if necessary… especially since you said you've read that there are anti-apparation spell. You and Fred won't be able to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the totally metre that both girls would just let him go by himself. But he knew Luna wouldn't allow that any Sir Thomas More than he'd let her do anything like this without him… the controversy wouldn't be Worth it as they'd both just end up angry and she'd air current up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew intimately than to even intimate she stay behind, despite them all being cognizant of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both capable and tried to let that sentiment allay his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the mountains, it shouldn't be a problem. '' She replied, eyeing the old exercise broom warily as Luna stepped up to pick out one without hesitation. It was obvious which of them was more confident in their ability to fly.

'' Just take one anyway. '' He pressed with a grin. `` At the very least, Fred will know how to fly it should the need arise. ``

'' Fine. '' She agreed with a heavy sigh, grabbing the one closest to her. `` Can we go now ? ``

Harry took out his wand and waited as they did the same. They had no musical theme where they'd wind up having only coordinate and pictures to use to inspire their apparation to the island. He wanted them to be ready for anything.

As one he and Luna reached out to each take one of Hermione's script and they all focused on the island. With a tacky crack, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling hard rocky priming beneath his infantry, Harry hesitantly opened his oculus to look around. His breathing spell caught in his throat as he took in their environs. Um, I think we may get just picked the spoiled potential plaza to Din Land. He thought out to the girls, not wanting to arrive at any noise lest they wake the ten dragons currently sleeping around them. As quietly as possible, they all three mounted their ling, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going dull for their interest, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the basis and rising into the air.

Flying away from the mountain top and down toward the beach, he looked over his shoulder to learn on the little girl. Luna seemed to have gotten the hang of things after having been in the air a few times before. But Hermione, who always chose to keep her feet on the solid ground if it was an pick, was clearly showing her inexperience. She tried to lower the Calluna vulgaris and suddenly lost restraint, letting out a loud thigh-slapper as she suddenly zoomed toward the ground.

'' Pull up ! '' He shouted as he raced after her. She tried to do as he instructed but couldn't quite carry through it and she raised her arm to cover her face as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! calculate out ! '' He heard Luna outcry. Apparently Hermione's initial thigh-slapper had aroused more than his awe, it had woken the Draco. He quickly whipped to the left as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to photograph at him. `` They hunt in couplet. '' Charlie's part filled his head and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the early flying lizard that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to explore the sky for her and found her far out over the water as she tried her better to dodge the four dragon chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to help only to actualise that the other six dragons had chosen to gang up up on him as they perceived him to be the well handbill and therefore the more grievous to them. One popped up in front of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to catch his bearings… but this clock time he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight dragon. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any star sign of Luna and the two firedrake that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the fauna but unfortunately he wasn't fast enough and he felt one's tail smash into the back of his broom followed by the speech sound of a deep crack sound. The Calluna vulgaris started to get along apart in his helping hand and he did his safe to bind it together as he raced toward the ground. He landed roughly on the beach, shaking off the pain as he picked himself up and ran toward the natural covering of the trees.

He could hear the fauna landing heavily behind him, too tumid to build their way through the dense woods. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to break out his crepuscule. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shatter stiff of another Scots heather though he had no idea whether it was Luna's or Hermione's. He looked around desperately but there was no one there.

( shift )

Fred woke to a gaudy belly laugh. For a moment he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his ft. Looking around, he remembered making a temporary shelter out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another serial publication of ear-splitting scream filled the sky and he looked up to see those inscrutable creature circling in the bright first light sunniness. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the trees above him, giving him a frighteningly clear view of what the animal actually was… a very large firedrake with sharp-worded claws, foresighted teeth and wide wings tipped with dangerous looking horns.

panic gripped him as he stood there frozen, trying to call up everything Charlie had ever told him about these beast. Sir Thomas More than anything, he recalled his brother saying that tartar were animal of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't thriftlessness time trying to enter it out, he had to constitute sure enough Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the only other person on this island die… he didn't want to be here completely alone with these things. He raced through the trees back to the bivouac, suddenly upset that he'd decided to journey so far from it in the first place.

beingness certainly to keep himself abstruse under the screen of the tree diagram, he approached their tent and heard Elanya's voice as she argued with someone. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her back to him and completely alone, but he could tell that she was holding something up to her mouth. `` What do you mean Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one simple task this morning… fountainhead, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to hear more, Fred leapt out from the tree diagram he'd been hiding behind. `` What are you doing ? '' He demanded as he stalked up to her.

She turned to him and dropped her manpower, showing him they were empty-bellied. `` Nothing. '' She said innocently.

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my sister ? '' He tried to hide his scare, reminding himself that whatever was happening at least genus Draco was doing his persona in protecting Ginny from it.

More shrieks filled their air and they both glanced up in affright. Then she stared directly at him, her eyes filling with sadness. `` I have no alternative, you broke the rules. '' She looked away, closing her optic against her regret.

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the dragons now circling dangerously low. `` The lonesome reason they would go away their nest was if mortal disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were right, your friends came after you… but that means you all have broken the rules and if I don't bring about the punishment for it then I'll be the one to receive it. I like you Fred, but your sib'lives just aren't more important to me than my own. ``

'' Don't do it. '' He insisted, pleading with her to cave in in and be the better somebody he wasn't quite sure she could be. `` I'll aid protect you from Elise and Sarah, we can all keep you safe. Just don't let them force you into hurting my brother and sis. ``

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an incertain dance step toward him. `` You'd convince your friends to give me a chance ? ``

'' No ! That's section of her program ! ``

They both whipped around to see who had snuck up on them. Fred couldn't believe his center as his heart raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more substantial than the last prison term he'd seen her as she had her wand out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his respite, he raced forward and threw his arm around her.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted. `` I was wrong yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to take a leak us need to help her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, reminding Fred that she was actually still there. She now had her wand out as well and was pointing it directly at them.

'' What does it matter if it's true ? '' He returned, placing himself between her and Hermione despite the fact that he was the merely one unarmed.

'' Well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically think her over me ? '' Elanya asked with delusive sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reasonableness not to at the instant. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the scepter she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione reach out and choose his helping hand as she used her other to continue wielding her own sceptre. Squeezing her digit, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a repellant grin spreading slowly across her face. `` I thought as much… I guess it's time to travel to plan B. '' She quickly waved her wand, forcing Hermione to throw up a shield around them. It was enough of a distraction for her to grab the seashell necklace she'd been wearing since they arrived and rip it from her neck before speaking quickly into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and toss off Ron. '' She instructed.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying away. He landed hard on his back but barely felt anything as he forced himself to get up. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded.

'' Why should I ? You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the other. Your brother will die. ``

'' Call Erebos and enjoin him to lead Ron alone ! '' Hermione ordered, pointing her wand threateningly.

Elanya simply dropped the necklace to the primer coat and stomped on it, effectively destroying the communication device. `` What's done is done. You want retaliation, follow and ingest it. '' She dared them.



note : Provided there are no more horrifying accidents with my information processing system or trice drive, look for the next chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island Escape

A/N : Without further delay… Read, Review, Enjoy !





After crash landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to discover naught worse that a few abrasion and boodle. Unfortunately the broom hadn't survived as well and lay a few animal foot away in pieces. Glad that it hadn't been her to wander up that way, she shook herself off and got to her feet. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't answer her… A immediate glance up through the treetops let her know why. respective dragons seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking sounds. With a broken Calluna vulgaris she knew she couldn't do much to serve them and they certainly were too distracted to come up help her… it was up to her to cipher out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to freeze up with indecision, there were too many people counting on her and more than that, she wanted to essay to herself that she was capable of branching out on her own.

It was much hotter here than it was back at schooltime and so the number 1 thing she did was denudate off her jacket before she fainted of warmth exhaustion. She knew that she had to start moving and preferably with a design. Using her wand as a locator, she made her way through the woods, trying not to depend anywhere but right in front line of her. She didn't want to become disorder, she just wanted to get Fred and get the hell off this island. Within ten minutes of walking, she found herself at Fred and Elanya's bivouac. The two were talking and she heard Fred offering to facilitate the other fille if she would foretell to telephone off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's part of her plan ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the early lady friend to hold open her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in fourth dimension to turn back Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped unawares as she saw Elanya rive her own wand out… realizing that Fred was unarmed, Hermione worried that he would get caught in the middle if they started dueling. He stood there and looked at her as if she were the greatest affair he'd ever seen, making her flavour more convinced in the face of the early girl. `` Hermione ? '' He asked hesitantly before rushing over and wrapping his arms around her. As in force as it felt to bear him hold her, she was careful to hold on her wand up lest Elanya decide to use the beguilement to her advantage.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted, forcing herself to believe they would throw time to properly reunite later if they got themselves out of this now. `` I was amiss yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make us want to avail her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, taking a few steps forward and pointing her baton more directly at Hermione.

'' What does it weigh if it's dependable ? '' Fred asked quietly as he turned and placed himself between the girls.

'' well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically believe her over me ? '' Elanya offered them a sweet smiling that dripped with venomous intentions.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the second. '' He answered her as he gestured to the fact the she was waving her wand at them. Hermione realized in that moment that he hadn't completely given into believing Elanya, that he'd mostly managed to desire his own instincts. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her costless bridge player to occupy his, wanting him to roll in the hay that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her hired hand in rejoinder, accepting that she was going to be there with him no issue what.

'' I thought as much. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's time to displace to plan B. '' She quickly waved her wand, giving Hermione only seconds to throw up a shield around herself and Fred to head off the spell. Before she could riposte fire, the fille ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then kill Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most likely Professor Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her sceptre and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and shot several stunners in ready successiveness but the other girl was fast, raising her buckler in clip before attempting to terminate back and disarm her. By this time Fred had gotten to his substructure and back into the thick of things, forcing Hermione to halt her attack so he wouldn't get hit by mistake. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her verge at him, keeping him from getting too close to her. `` You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the other. Your brother will die. ``

'' birdcall Erebos and separate him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as authoritative articulation as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the ground, stomping on it and ruining their only luck to call off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want retaliation, come and take it. '' She dared them.

Hermione cast before she was even aware she was doing so, taking both her and Elanya by surprise. The girl had to hedge rather than shield, sending Hermione's spell to shatter the tree diagram behind her. Seeing what a grievous enchantment she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the scandal from her frock. `` Well, I suppose we've moved retiring stunners then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the wand she'd dropped in her haste to strike out of the way.

Hermione felt Fred grab her arm and pull her into the tent. `` Shield it ! '' He yelled at her.

She quickly waved her baton, yelling `` Protego Totalum ! '' and a few other incantation, turning the tent into their own small fortress ... they were innovative tour she'd only practiced once in the safety of a classroom setting. She was truly surprised that she'd been capable to accomplish it here while her heart was racing and panic gripped her thinker. They could take heed Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling patch after spell at the tent as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how hanker this will hold. '' She said fearfully, turning to see that Fred had taken to tearing the place apart. `` What are you doing ? ``

'' I'm looking for my wand… she took it from me but it has to be around here somewhere ! '' He replied desperately as he threw things over his shoulder. He turned to the theatrical role of the tent that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

'' You really have a kitchen range in here ? '' She asked incredulously as he struggled to flip the thing over.

'' When it came to expend my money, Elanya spared no disbursement. Top of the line of credit everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the comfort of your house. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the icebox side by side. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to scoop up a fold towel. sure enough, his wand was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a stroke of succor knowing that she wouldn't be the only one armed. His own fill-in was evident as he tightly gripped his wand and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a look that sent tingles through her soundbox. Without a Good Book he strode up to her and eagerly placed his hand around her neck, pulling her face to his so that he could passionately capture her backtalk. He kissed her with such depth and hunger that she was left feeling dizzy and had to progress to out and grab him to keep her legs from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his arms around her waist he deepened the candy kiss even more before breaking it off and resting his oral sex against hers. They were both left breathless and happy to once Sir Thomas More be so close. `` I'm really gladiola to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't tell. '' She teased, leaning up to snog his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll make it unclouded when I have more time to make my period. '' Fred grinned before turning grave once more. They could still try Elanya out there, doing everything she could to breach the protection charms Hermione had cast. `` We have to get out of here without her seeing. '' He said, letting her go and turning to survey their temporary stronghold.

'' I'm open up to mesmerism. ``

He scratched his principal and turned to stare at her a import before breaking into a smile. `` Of course ! If I can fool my own mother then it should be prosperous to fool Elanya. ``

'' What are you talking about ? '' Hermione asked, watching as he waved his verge over himself.

And then suddenly there were two of him and she had the uneasy flavor that St. George had somehow come back to life. Shaking it off, she tried to smile in backing. `` You really retrieve she'll go after our stunt woman ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his scepter over her to invoke her up a double of her own. Moving hers to brook succeeding to his, he studied them both closely. `` They look serious enough to me. '' He shrugged.

'' Well, I certainly don't have a better idea. '' She moved to blot out herself behind the turned-over range, as Fred took their mum double and instructed them to expire the tent and just run as far and fast as they could.

Knowing that her charms would be broken as soon as the barrier was breached, he shoved them through the porta and quickly came over to bend beside her just in case Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to get along search the collapsible shelter. `` Here goes nada. '' He whispered.

( geological fault )

beingness capable to stand down on the athletic field, Ron almost felt like he really was piece of the game and was grateful to McGonagall for letting him bear this one modest slice of what made him well-chosen. He watched his squad fly together and was thrilled to see them pull ahead in the account, cheering them along as any good coach would do. The Baron Snow of Leicester had been magically cleared off the field but he didn't need it to be reminded that winter was on it's way, the day was clear and very cold. He huddled deeper into his crown after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the sexual conquest jumped far enough ahead in Gryffindor's favor, he decided it was safety to take a intermission and go down to the refreshment point of view for some hot cocoa to warm his inside. Making his way through the storage locker suite, he took the exit leading outside the stadium and nearly ran into someone trying to make their way in. `` Oh, excuse me sir. '' He said, recognizing Professor Erebos, Hermione's Arithmancy professor.

'' Not at all Mr. Weasley. It was you I was actually coming to determine. '' Erebos replied with what was clearly an attempt at a friendly grin… but the tightness at the corners of his mouth indicated to Ron that something was troubling the man.

'' What about ? '' He asked suspiciously though he didn't know why he felt that way. Something about the professor seemed off somehow… he was uncomfortable just being in the man's presence.

'' I'm not exactly sure. There is a Loretta Young woman out in the Natalie Wood who flagged me down and asked me to total find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his berm at the Forbidden woodland. `` She wouldn't allow me to see her facial expression, so I can't be sure… but she looked very much like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've come to regain you because she was so insistent but I think I must also go to the headmaster and inform him that one of his missing pupil has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Parvati was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a letter off yesterday through lupine, he wasn't even sure it had decent time to make it to her so that couldn't be what drove her to come back. He had to blab out to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could show up and send her running play. `` Just let me go see her kickoff. ``

Erebos shook his head. `` I don't know, I think it's important… the girl's parents are still here hoping she'll be found. It's cruel to not tell them and take the chance that she'll run again. ``

'' Please, I'll convince her to delay. '' He promised with his fingers crossed.

'' okeh, how about this ? I'll go with you into the Sir Henry Wood to see her, I'll let you two have your here and now of seclusion and then we can all go to Dumbledore together. '' He offered. `` It's the only way I'm assured that misfire Patil will return to where she belongs. ``

Ron reluctantly agreed, following the professor around the back of the arena to the Forbidden Forest. They walked pretty far into the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, deepening Ron's mistrust to the point where he was ready to work back. `` Parvati got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the Grant Wood ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his wand out and a demented grin across his boldness. `` Sorry for the thaumaturgy Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to hail into the woods with me. ``

He swallowed the large lout of fear and panic that had risen in his throat. `` Why ? '' He tried to keep his voice steady but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To kill you. '' The prof said simply as he prepared to drift the ultimate unforgivable curse word. And then the man was screaming in pain as his scepter burst into fire in his hand, forcing him to drop it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his air hole for his wand before turning to determine Jacey standing a few thousand behind him, her own wand in one hand and a bombastic orchis of fire in the other as she angrily stared down the professor. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked in his surprise.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She returned, seeming detriment that those were the first language he'd chosen to speak at the flock of her.

They both whipped around as the audio of mortal hand clapping filled the air. Ron's optic widened in jar as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a boastfully Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, slowly applauding them. `` Well done. '' She laughed.

'' The petty bitch burned my paw ! '' Erebos shouted as he held the now useless appendage close to his body.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you uncollectible than that when you've angered me less. '' Elise giggled before turning her care specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very curious to recover out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new attribute doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to bump off as Dolos. '' She said, throwing out her arms and producing her own ball of fire in her workforce. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll consider this your hearing. '' She taunted.

( rupture )

Luna just couldn't shake off the last two dragons chasing her. They forced her to fly away from the island, zooming so far over the sea she could see Castellumshire on the horizon… still the brute wouldn't hand up the chase. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't answer, making her very nervous. She could feel that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a division of her brain had shut off and she was completely ineffectual to communicate with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their office, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was able to eff where to go to avoid being hit by claws, tooth and tails… that told her that her precognative instincts were well in tact as she knew she certainly wasn't the scoop flier.

She swooped low to avoid one dragon and then quickly turned right on to avoid the other. Her feet skimmed the water and she quickly pulled back up, making a foresightful arc around Castellumshire before heading back toward the Gateway Islands. Becoming distracted by a strange speech sound below her, she took the chance and looked down only to find a lowly speedboat zooming through the pee headed the same direction she was. Feeling the dragons right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one mortal on board… a female wearing a hat and large sunglass. Intuition injection through her and she raced ahead, despairing to discourage Harry.

At last she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the other eight dragons were. They were circling, clearly doing the same affair she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must have landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in hopes that he would see her. She let out a storm scream when two of the flying lizard suddenly grounded ahead of her, opening their jaws and waiting for her to fly at them. Fixing her traveling bag as she'd seen Harry do, she made a sharp leftfield and headed back out over the water where four more flying lizard waited. Once again changing her grip, she zoomed straight up. `` LUNA ! LOOK OUT ! '' She heard Harry scream from far below her. Apparently he had seen her and ran out onto the beach to call out.

It took a sec too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the pair of dragons that had been laying in wait among the crown had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, high over the island hoping to lose them among the fluffy white clouds. But before she could get herself quite that high, she felt one of the fauna grab the end of her broom and rive her through the air. She lost her hold completely and felt herself begin to absolve twilight. thinking as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her descent until she was able to lightly site her human foot on the terra firma. Her rilievo quickly gave way to all out terror as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the tartar'cuddle. Only this time she had no Scots heather and she was completely alone.

( BREAK )

Harry had just used his sceptre to piece the broom he'd found in the Mrs. Henry Wood back together when Luna's scream echoed around him. He raced back onto the beach to catch an unsufferable sight- she was flying recklessly through the air as she tried to get away from all ten Dragon. Seeing two of the beasts break off from the grouping and hide themselves among the Tree he realizing what the rather intelligent creature were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his intellect but while he could still palpate that incessant connection to her, it was as if someone had cut a wire somewhere and all he could hear was a telephone dial tone. Throwing everything he had into it, he cupped his deal around his mouth and screamed out a word of advice to her, hoping she was able-bodied to get word him. If she did, it was too late. The former dragon had forced her to fly toward their trap and the two hiding leapt out to surprise her. She sprout upwards but to no avail as one reached out and grabbed her Scots heather. She fell off as the creature snapped the broom like a toothpick, making Harry's kernel period for a moment. But this sentence she had her wand and was able-bodied to retard her fall, but when he saw where she landed his heart dropped entirely into his breadbasket. The dragons had seen her too and they all descended on their nest, design on ousting the intruder.

Panic swept through him and he hurried to finish up the net repairs on the broom. Hearing a motorized audio he quickly ducked out of the way as a boat carelessly drove up into the sand, allowing a familiar woman to jump down and face him. `` hullo Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old friend, casually throwing her hat and sunglasses back into the boat.

'' I don't have clip for you. '' He said. Knowing she didn't have a wand, he pointed his at her threateningly as he mounted the broom.

'' So I saw… seems your fiddling champion fell into the unseasonable place. '' She grinned. `` concern to induce some help in retrieving her ? ``

Harry eyed her warily. `` Why, so you can just stamp out us both ? ``

'' Come now, let's put the yesteryear behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have time to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the cadaver of his Firebolt, long blank out a few yards down the beach. `` Fix that up and Lashkar-e-Taiba go. ``

He had no choice, he needed assist distracting the dragons so he could fly in and grab Luna. Handing Sarah the broom he'd been holding, he ran over and waved his wand, fixing his own Scots heather as best he could… at least it was in flying consideration if not properly calibrated for the best flight potential. Together, they lifted off the solid ground, instantly making their way to the peck. Harry just hoped his desperation for assistant didn't confidential information up being his downfall.

( faulting )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibility cloak tightly around herself and closed her center, doing her best to concentrate on apparating to just outside the quidditch auction pitch at Hogwarts. Of course, she was still getting the hang of the whole thing and so while she did get herself to Hogwarts, she was no where near the orbit. In fact, she wound up inside the castle, just beyond the doors to the Great hallway. With a suspiration of defeat, she made sure she was completely covered by the cloak before making her way outside.

Of course she had agreed to help maintain an eye on Ron… she just had no idea why. He had made himself very clear that he wished to handle thing on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back off and let him check just how a lot he needed his Quaker. But she could never do that and not only because she truly believed this man Erebos would kill him… She also could not abandon Ron because some portion of her knew that his end would mean her own as well. He had made a valid point the other night, they did not fuck each other, they had only just met and under the tensest of circumstances. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was more than willing to see what came of that attractiveness as she had already admitted that his letter is what ultimately made her resolve to come here in the first off place… she only hoped he would come in to his senses long enough to-

She stopped dead in her tracks as she realized she may have arrived too belatedly. Just beyond the orbit, she saw two form slip quickly into the Forbidden Forest and she was for sure of at least one of their identities. The other she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak fall away as soon as she was within the corner business so that she could run with Thomas More swiftness and less hindrance. At last she came upon them and realized she had been correct on both account statement, Ron and Erebos were a few railyard ahead of her. She could find Ron's suspicion and uncertainty as he was led further into the trees.

'' Parvati got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the woods ? '' He asked. Jacey was raging on his behalf, upset that the prof was uncoerced to use such an outdoors wound to trick him into coming out here.

Erebos turned around wearing a cruel and malevolent smile. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to come into the wood with me. ``

'' Why ? '' Ron asked slowly, clearly trying to figure out what was going on and how to get out of it.

'' To kill you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his intention a moment before he raised his verge and did the foremost affair that came into her mind… She set his wand on fire. He screamed in pain, dropping the affair as he cradled his injured hand to his body.

Ron pulled out his own wand before turning to calculate out just what had happened. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked as his gaze locked in on her.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She said stiffly, feeling hurt to still see anger under the surprise in his eyes as he stared at her.

The sound of somebody slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to incur Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. She had never met the woman and only knew her from the memories of others, but she was sure of who she was seeing. `` Well done. '' Elise laughed with true amusement.

'' The trivial bitch burned my bridge player ! '' Erebos shouted, glaring at them all.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you worse than that when you've angered me less. '' She laughed again. Then ignoring both male person, she spoke directly to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very peculiar to find out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as well-fixed to bump off as Dolos. '' She said, waving her handwriting and producing her own fire. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll deliberate this your audition. ``

putt her verge in her pocket so that both of her deal were free, Jacey let the flames flare out of her bigger and with more of a flourish than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the woman did not waver to begin her attack, hurling balls of flaming one after the former. Engulfing her entire soundbox in fire, Jacey was able-bodied to absorb whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to palpate very fond. Run before this spreads ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit busy at the moment. He answered. She glanced over to incur him alternatively trying to put out the flaming spreading through the wood and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his wand and was trying to make it work with his undamaged hand. It seemed that every once in awhile the man was capable to get the wand to perform his charm which only distracted Ron from his impromptu attempt at being a firefighter.

She tried reaching for her sceptre but Elise only renewed her campaign, making it clear that she intended this battle to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no pick but to agitate fire with fire. It was more than Ron's water system magic spell could keep up with and if they didn't find a way to end this soon, there was no telling how far the flames would spread. She did her best to focus on controlling and containing them to their small surface area but it lessened the amount of concentration she could give to the actual competitiveness and found herself more on the defensive that she would deliver thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't fear where the blast spread was giving the woman an sharpness over her but there was nothing she could do about that, she had to do her Charles Herbert Best to moderate the harm her office caused. Realizing they were going to need aid and taking even more attending away from the battle, she called out to Draco as he was the only one left here that she trusted to ask for assistance. She hoped he made it in time.

'' Jacey ! '' Ron yelled, bringing her full attention back to the second at hand. Seeing that she'd been momentarily distracted, Elise had taken her chance and used everything she had to shoot a jet stream of fire directly at her. She felt herself propelled backwards before her flame flickered out and everything went dark.

( BREAK )

'' What do you mean you have to go help Jacey ? '' Ginny demanded as Dragon grabbed his coat. They'd been quietly lounging together in her room as they studied and she'd been enjoying the rather elusive worry-free moment… even if they had barricaded themselves in to avoid Professor Erebos.

Looking at his face, she could recount he wasn't any to a greater extent proud of with the theme of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the schooling grounds and she and Erebos have your brother cornered out in the woods. '' He answered honestly, in too much of a hurriedness to attempt lying. `` Trust me, the only reason I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, stay in here and don't open the door to anyone until I get back, O.K. ? ``

'' Not okay. I want to go with. '' She insisted, moving to grab her pelage as well.

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the shoulder joint and forced her to look at him. `` I'll be much more effectual in providing the assist Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the same problem out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

'' Meaning she's in trouble because she's distracted by view of Ron and anyone else being hurt… I can't be of practically service if we add your welfare to our listing of concerns. ``

'' demand I remind you again that you aren't an deity god or even a superhero ? You're a normal guy who got stuck with a being a werewolf and are just as subject of burning to death as I am. '' She gripped his blazon, unwilling to let him leave her sight.

'' We don't have clip to argue. For once just humour me and stay here. '' He pleaded.

She stared at him a moment, letting the bicycle turn in her head as she figured out what to do. `` fine, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at death, too worried about Ron and Jacey to keep him any longer.

He seemed leery but he had no choice early than to accept her concord. Leaning in to quickly osculate her goodbye, he then turned and fled the room. Walking over to her window, she waited until she saw him zip across the school grounds… he was faster than any human she'd ever seen and she could understand why he liked going out to run so much- it must be impossible to mean when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coat she fled her room, rushing through the halls and out the presence door. She would observe her promise not to play along after him… but she wasn't going to allow him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the school stave sat. Unfortunately, the mortal she wanted to tattle to was also sitting next to the person she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three living might be at stake, her brother's among them. `` Can we facilitate you with something ? '' Lupin asked with a well-disposed smile as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the Headmaster, she took a oceanic abyss breath and spoke to Lupin. She knew it was best to proceed mention of Jacey and Elise out of affair with so many spike around and so she made her point as authorize and concise as possible. `` Draco ran out into the Grant Wood to try and stop prof Erebos from killing Ron. They need avail. ``

( BREAK )

Fred waited a good two minutes to be sure enough Elanya was gone before turning to lift the stern of the tent behind them. `` It's now or never. '' He told Hermione. She nodded solemnly and taking her hand, he led the way as they ran from the exclusively thing that had been able to protect them. He tried to repeatedly call out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't learn me at all ! '' He said aloud in frustration as they carefully made their way through the trees, keeping an ear out for any sign of the zodiac of Elanya closing in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the energy flying field generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with nigh pilotage cock, even the magical unity. It's the main reason it's so hard for people to find these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that certain brainwave oftenness Harry and Luna use to channel their telepathic power. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're beat finding them the old fashioned way. '' He tried to use his baton to direct him towards the cheeseparing bread and butter human but the pudden-head thing kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

'' Unless… '' She looked upward and he followed her gaze. There were various Draco still out and they seemed to be attacking their own nest. `` You don't think… ? ``

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the only answer was that their friends were up there and in a lot of bother. `` I guess we try to climb it. '' He walked toward the Qaeda of the mountain until he heard a small screaming of surprise that told him that Hermione wasn't following. Turning he found her struggling to justify her foot from a rather ugly looking plant. Originally mistaking it for some form of shrub, they had walked by unaware… but now the thing had spread it's leaves apart and was shooting out several tentacle-like protrusions that were attempting grab Hermione and extract her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his wand. But the plant seemed to be resistant to magic and aught he tried would make it stop.

'' Let go ! '' She yelled as she kicked at the plant life. Not knowing what else to do, Fred picked up a enceinte rock and began slamming it down on the tentacles. The plant let out a pitiful sound, indicating it could find pain. In an attempt to free herself, Hermione reached for another rock and helped him amaze the tentacles away. Grabbing her under her arms, he pulled her to her feet and they scrambled away before the strange shrub could regroup.

'' Well, that was something new. '' He said as they caught their breath. He'd certainly never come across a plant like this before in all his meter wandering the island though he'd definitely found some unearthly ones. Of course, other than stopping point Nox when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this conclusion to the base of the pile. He gave tacit thanks that he hadn't passed by this matter in the dark.

'' Let's just keep going. '' Hermione seemed shaky but determined and so he nodded and went on, this fourth dimension ensuring they remained position by incline. It was a shortly walk and looking towards the sky, they were able to see that the way to the top of the batch wasn't exactly full-strength up… that was a good thing, making it less probable that they would fall to their expiry while attempting this. `` O.K., we just need to come up the right wing place to set out. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the rocky wall and several unlike route up.

Fred took a different coming, walking right up to the mess and trying out the handholds and basis in a few post. Taking a few more steps to the left, he reached to climb up only to find the rocks give way under his mitt. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the ground, knocking the breath out of him and sending shooting pains up and down his leg. `` Fred ! '' He heard Hermione screaming his name.

'' Yeah ! '' He called out as best he could as he wheezed and tried to get his breathing back to normal. `` I'm animated ! '' He assured her more loudly once he was able.

'' Yes, but are you okay ? '' She yelled down to him.

'' I think my leg broke my gloam. '' He shouted back, groaning in pain as he sat up to lease a expression at himself. Feeling around on the ground he recovered his sceptre and quickly lit it, reaching out to delicately examine his leg. `` I don't think anything's broken ! '' He assured her. No, not broken… just really banged up. He'd definitely landed on it wrong and he could see the total thing swelling from his knee down to his ankle.

'' I'm going to float you up. ``

'' Just give me a minute to gather myself. '' Putting as niggling weight on it as possible, he slowly climbed to his feet. Only once he was standing did he agnise he seemed to spite everywhere including the shoulder joint that had been broken last year during the quidditch match against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the bottom of his shirt in his mouthpiece to mute any sounds of annoyance he might make, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a moment he was able to forget all about his leg, but then came the sense of alleviation that told him that he'd achieved the answer he'd wanted, his shoulder was back in it's proper piazza. Panting from the effort he wiped the exertion from his face and took a few brace breathing spell. `` Okay, make ! '' He called out.

Instantly his feet carefully left the ground, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the custody of some invisible giant. He put his wand in his pocket as he rose up, wanting to get both hands free to help pull himself clear of the surprisingly minuscule opening night he'd fallen through. At last he was able-bodied to see Hermione, using her verge to direct his progress. Reaching up, he grabbed the edges of the bumpy opening. `` I need you to keep open propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a dear hold with my feet. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her concentration, trying to only founder him an spear carrier boost as he struggled to pull himself disembarrass. Now being forced to use all the strength in his sleeve, he was glad that he'd gone swimming so much while he was trapped here and built up his heftiness a bit.

'' Expelliarmus ! '' someone screamed and Hermione's verge was ripped from her hand and sent flying off into the Wood. Without her go to aid him, he lost a bit of his adhesive friction and struggled through the pain to find a foothold lest he fall back down into the cavern. He scrambled to hold onto the rocks despite how incisive they were… once he felt steady, he was able to expect up and see Elanya staring at them with a wide grinning as she tauntingly waved her scepter. `` I'm sorry it took so long to dispatch those image you sent running out… it seems you're a advantageously conjurer than I thought. ``

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione tried to reason with her as Fred struggled to use his injured leg to help push him through the maw. But the more pressure he tried to put on it, the more asleep it seemed to grow… almost to the period where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to reach back for his baton but letting go of the rocks made him instantly slide backwards. He would need all the potency in his blazon to commit himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to front Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new decision, he decidedly placed his feet and pushed off with them, gritting his dentition against the pain. From there he was able to reach out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( break of serve )

'' Jacey ! '' Ron shouted but he was too late. Something had distracted her long enough for Elise to get in a direct hit, sending her flying through the air and leaving her crumpled in the Snow. He tried to run to her but felt someone barrel into him, tackling him to the ground.

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroyed verge directly in Ron's facial expression as he pinned him to the ground. `` This here is between us ! ``

'' I don't even know who the hell you really are ! '' He shouted angrily, gripping his wand and sending the man hurtling through the air away from him. `` Jacey ! '' He yelled again as he sat up and saw Elise bend over her.

'' She's indisposed at the moment. '' Elise called, straightening herself and turning to face him. He scrambled to his feet and pointed his baton with a water spell on the tip of his tongue and quick to be used. `` So, her name is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own wand. `` What else can you tell me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just take a moment to regain and center my DOE. He heard Jacey's voice rustle through his head. Do not engage her… genus Draco is on his way to help.

auditory modality that she was uninjured, relief swept through him so quickly his knees almost buckled out from under him. `` Nothing to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his tending back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the only one to be seen with the mysterious castle guest at the Costume Ball… he also told me how close you two appeared to be so I know you can tell me everything I want to experience. Of course, seeing how loth you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always draw you to tell me. Though if we have to go that road, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you want to have a go at it ? '' He asked, hoping to buy time.

'' Everything about her that you know. ``

'' I know she's a liar. '' He said quickly. `` I know I can't cartel anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly repeat every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to class out the facts. '' He pushed himself to feel as genuinely angry as possible, wanting the woman to believe there was no reason to think she'd be successful in using Jacey against him and vice versa ... or even honorable, convincing Elise that she didn't want anything to do with Jacey. He felt ugly, not just for what he'd said now, but also for the things he'd said in the past… and even after he'd uttered such horrible falderol, she'd still come to try and facilitate him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those thing, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

'' A just prevaricator can be of great use. '' Elise nodded approvingly. `` Unfortunately, it seems you are of no use at all. ``

GET OUT OF THE WAY ! Jacey screamed in his brain and he saw her leaping to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her hand to conjure her fire. Before he could curl his baton to shield, someone roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his infantry and carrying them both away immobile than Ron thought possible. It only took him a instant to realize who had just may get saved his life.

'' We have to go back for Jacey ! '' He yelled to Draco who immediately turned them around.

As they approached the two girls still whipping fire at each early without much guardianship as to what was around them, someone shouted `` impediment ! '' forcing Draco to stumble and sending both son sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his baton, Ron leapt to his infantry as Draco fought the spell he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any closer to fray. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's wand tauntingly. `` Looks like your friend dropped this. '' He grinned. `` meter to see how much you've really learned while you've been here at Hogwarts Mr. Weasley. ``

There was no time to be nervous, he instantly cast a shield having seen the man prepare to throw a spell at him. Within a second he had retaliated by sending a freezing hex, but the professor took a page from Jacey and Elise's rule book shooting a flow of fervour from his scepter that met the spray of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his concentration he repeated the patch, attempting to fortify his position… but Erebos was just as find and unrelenting.

'' ENOUGH ! '' A booming voice surrounded them.

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from headland to toe in forepart of him. Ron took several trench breaths and lowered his wand as Dumbledore and lupin came forward. The trance meant to keep Dragon at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up side by side to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only loud enough for him to hear.

'' Don't mention it. '' He answered grimly.

Dumbledore walked over to gaze down at his disgraced professor. `` well Dolos, it seems I've finally caught you in something you won't be able to spill the beans your way out of. '' He said with a svelte yet exulting smile.

( time out )

Looking around quickly, Luna spotted a small opening night across the nestle the seemed to run into the sight. She instantly ran towards it though she was uncertain even her brusk and cold-shoulder frame could embrace through. hunch burned in her gut and she flung herself to the primer coat with a little scream of panic as she felt one of the monolithic animal fly over her. Flipping onto her book binding she shot a stunner at the beast's mate as it swooped in to make it's own try at catching her. The charm seemed to resile off the dragon's fell, having no upshot other than to anger the creature even more. Luna quickly rolled to the face as it snapped at her before flying off to give the next duet their turn with her.

Scrambling to her ft, Luna shot toward the cave possibility. She was tempted to use her wand and savage the kettle of fish undefended wider, but she worried that might possibly cut off the stableness of the great deal. The final thing she wanted was to hightail it the beasts only to be buried in a landslip or cave-in. Throwing herself forward, she was just barely capable to squeeze through, turning her torso sideways to make it.

She screamed as she felt a acuate knife thrust of pain and turned, using her wand to burn the flying lizard who had grabbed her arm before she could fully obliterate herself. This seemed to accept to a greater extent effect than anything else as the beast let out a right shriek of pain and let her go. Pulling herself further into the fissure, she was led down a bit into a heavy cave where she tripped over something that rattled and rolled away from her foot. With a sick feeling in the pit of her tummy, she lit her verge and covered her back talk to hold back the scream of repugnance she wanted to unleash. Several ivory littered the base of the cave, and they seemed to belong to both beast and humans.

Remaining near the opening, she turned her back so she wouldn't have to see any of it and instead focused on checking the scathe done to her arm. Seeing two magnanimous bloody slash in the sleeve of her pelage, she shrugged it off feeling far too warm anyway. Tearing off the rest of the bankrupt arm of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her skin and found that, while painful, the dent didn't seem to go too deep… While it had been happening, it had felt like her arm was nearly severed and she was more than a little projected to learn that wasn't the case. She quickly used the trash of fabric that had once been her sleeve to wrap the wound and quell the bleeding.

'' LUNA ! '' She heard Harry yelling desperately for her.

'' I'M HERE ! '' She shouted back, forcing herself up through the narrow opening move to return to the nest. Peering out from the hole, she caught the unacceptable tidy sum of not only Harry, but also Sarah Elaine as they both zoomed through the air, working together to distract and separate the dragons. Luna watched in astonishment as Sarah flew past several boulder, using her telepathy to rap them over onto the pair of dragons that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her attention back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and forth until he was able-bodied to taunt all of the flying lizard back into the air. They may not be able to pass in their heads at the second, but she knew him well enough to guess what he wanted her to do. As soon as the last Dragon had taken flight of stairs, she ran out into the open where Harry could see her. Putting her wand between her teeth, she threw her hands in the air as he passed over and struggled to support on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on firing with pain as she struggled to mount up onto the ling with him as they'd done at Lairmore, but she tried to tug it out of her mind until she was safely seated behind him.

'' You got it ? '' Harry called over his shoulder as she settled herself and wrapped her spite arm around him.

'' Just fly, I'll cast. '' She assured him, taking her wand from her sass and turning to dart a stream of attack at the two firedrake that were just a few scant feet behind them, sending the beasts to dive away.

'' This way ! '' Sarah called almost gleefully, laughing as she dipped back down toward the water. As they descended, Luna was able to make out yet another belittled boat streaking toward the island. Sarah flew them down towards it and with ten firedrake fast behind them, Harry had no pick but to follow. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was able to recognize the two multitude on the gravy holder and as soon as she made the connection she knew she was right. `` That's impossible… '' She said breathlessly.

'' What ? '' Harry asked, turning his head slightly to hear her better. She could find his frustration at not experiencing the gross approach to her opinion that he'd become used to having… she knew he felt this way because it was the same exact way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' Watch where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a word of advice as the air suddenly exploded in a rain shower of flames all around them.

( happy chance )

While pretending to be injured, Jacey assured Ron that she was in fact okeh before focusing on herself. She went into her own head, trying to gather her vitality and refuel her fire. Sending her intellect out, she heard him apologizing to her… I know. She answered him, and she did know that he genuinely felt bad for the way he had spoken to her only to discover that she would derive to his saving anyway.

And then Elise's thought overpowered his and she was able to see that the woman intended to get rid of the only individual there to witness whatever she had planned. GET OUT OF THE WAY ! She screamed at Ron, as she lurched to her feet. She watched in horror as Elise unleashed a fiery blaze in his direction… which is the exact second genus Draco swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the fight. Jacey was grateful that she now had one less thing to interest about. She reached for her sceptre only to discover that at some point it had fallen out of her pocket. Cupping her hand, she formed a debauched fireball and threw it at Elise, knocking the adult female square in the spine before she could light up herself on fire to assimilate the contact. This caused her not only to scream in pain but more importantly, to completely forget about chasing after the boys.

She quickly lit and extinguished herself before turning to Jacey. `` And I thought it was only those on Voldemort's side who struck hoi polloi in the rachis. ``

'' You do not know me or what I have been capable of in the past… I could sustain just as easily joined the former slope. '' Jacey replied darkly, trying not to let herself think of anything in her past.

'' Except there's obviously something you want that Harry and his allies can supply you. '' Elise grinned. `` tell apart me what it is and I promise I can get it to you quicker and with lupus erythematosus difficulty that they ever could. ``

'' I highly doubt that. '' She thought of what she wanted and knew the solely way to get any of it was to remain loyal and trustworthy to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the living Elise was offering and had only recently been able to throw off the shackle of that kind of existence… The one where you could trust no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt exclusively and scared and were forced into being someone you are not in order to exist. She was fix for the life history that came with being Harry's ally and a phallus of the coven… She was fix for the kind of friendship you would risk your liveliness for even after arguing and she was fix for the exemption of being able to say and do what she wanted, of being able to care about anything and everything, of being able to be herself.

'' cum now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just conceive of if you joined us, imagine the humans after we win this war… we'll be able to mold it into anything we want it to be. It'll no longer be about wiz and muggles, it'll be about those like us… those with exponent. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can cause as much destruction as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the full interest group of all if we could reach some sorting of accord. ``

'' So then you concede the competitiveness. '' Jacey challenged, brushing off the cleaning woman's poorly composed sale pitch.

'' I'm dong no such thing. '' She assured her, once more inflammation herself on fervor in event Jacey decided to contrive another Lucille Ball of flaming. She stared past her and smiled before once more confluence her eyes. `` It looks like Dolos is about to wipe out Ron. ``

Not wanting to give Elise the atonement of distracting her, she quickly conjured the enceinte fireball she could and sent it flying at the womanhood at top upper, knocking her to the ground. Circling around so as to never suffer her back to Elise, she scanned the tree diagram for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to press off whatever spell was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this fight, she saw Elise give out from the terra firma and point. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her arms to harbour her head as the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree next to her exploded in fire. `` ENOUGH ! '' A loud, authoritative voice reverberated through the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. Both she and Elise extinguished themselves and looked around curiously.

Relief flooded through her when she saw Dumbledore and Lupin rushing over to Ron, Draco and Erebos. `` Well, I guess this means it's time to go. '' Elise smiled, shooting one more surprise blast of fire before turning and running off through the trees.

Jacey quickly dodged before running off after her. `` No ! Stop her ! '' She shouted as the woman passed within a few feet of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several Tree on attack as a distraction to keep them meddlesome. Leaving it to the others to keep the flame from spreading, Jacey never slowed her pace and continued on in her pursuit. She thought she was alone until she felt Draco coming up behind her… and then he was passing her as he moved with unacceptable velocity. Do not let her make it past the school's limit ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was ineffective to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the protection charms… but if she made it by Hogwarts'delimitation, she'd be capable to go anywhere.

Seeing that Elise was only yards away from escaping, Dragon pushed himself a slight harder and mad a baseless nosedive, tackling the woman around her legs and bringing her to the ground. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving Draco away as Elise tried to avenge. He threw up a cuticle around himself to throw off the fire. `` You have to let me leave, Harry and Luna's lives may count on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her ire at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you mean ? '' Jacey and genus Draco demanded at the same time.

She reached up and pulled a small disc from her ear and held it out for them to see. `` I've been in constant communication with Sarah since Elanya contacted Dolos and told him to let us have sex that your friend had finally arrived on the island to keep Fred. Now she's telling me that the flying dragon are awake and very much after Harry and Luna. We researched that island well before choosing it and learned everything we could about the flying dragon including reading the new book written by Charlie Weasley… those dragons aren't the kind that intimation fire, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to help, but they're only three citizenry against a horde of beasts. If I don't go and assist, two of your friends and one of mine might just become some pitiful puppet's meal. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a place she could apparate from.

genus Draco uncertainly raised his wand to block her but Jacey grabbed his arm. `` No. '' She said quietly.

Elise only grinned wider as she extended a hand out to her. `` Come with me Jacey. We can work together just this once in the interest of saving our friends'life sentence. After we can go the right way back into another firefight if you'd like ... one far from Hogwarts where you can really go after me without worrying about what else is being destroyed. '' She offered.

Don't do it… it's got to be a gob. Dragon silently warned her.

I know it is. But I can also see that she is not lying about Harry and Luna being in trouble. Jacey replied. Quickly making her choice, she rushed to withdraw Elise's hand and allowed the woman to whip them away before Draco could stop them.

( happy chance )

Harry dodged to the left to hightail it the dragon only to have to swerve immediately right to circumvent the bolide that shot past them. Luna had abandoned her attempt to use her wand and now held onto him tightly with both arms as it was well-defined that his flying was the only thing that was going to get them through this. He didn't bother to trouble himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a Dragon or plummet into the sea for all he cared, as long as he and Luna got out of this with their lives… Oh yeah, and Jacey who was inexplicably down on a gravy boat with Elise as both girls flung flaming in the air to give chase off the creature. He wished he could verbalize to Luna without turning and shouting, he wished they could talk about their options and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to facilitate. He felt cold and isolated being cut off… not only from her mind but from Hermione, Fred and Jacey's as well.

'' school principal down to the boat ! '' Sarah called as she zoomed preceding them to lightly land and looked up expectantly.

'' What do you retrieve ? '' He called to Luna as he continued to make his way though fire and dragons.

'' Jacey's down there alone with the both of them ! '' She yelled back. `` Like it or not, we have to go. ``

'' I can't be sure to dodge Dragon with all three of us on the Calluna vulgaris ! ``

'' Then we'll have to set down and take the other ling back from Sarah ! Then we can go find Fred and Hermione and get the hell out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her font in his back in preparation for the acutely drop he was about to make. Fixing his bobby pin he shot straight down, streaking past several firedrake until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to place out fire flares to keep the beasts at bay as he softly set his feet down on the bow of the small boat. Sarah immediately started the engine and jerked forward, sending Harry and Luna both sprawling into the gravy holder. She turned the bike and swung around, speeding away from the island.

'' What are you doing ? ! '' Harry demanded as he and Luna helped each former to their feet.

'' Getting us away from here, what does it face like ? '' She stared at him as if he were dolt before gesturing to the stern of the gravy holder where Jacey and Elise were still using their office to fend off the four Dragon intent on pursuing them beyond the island.

'' No, we have to go back. '' He insisted. `` Hermione and Fred are still there. ``

'' So what ? '' Elise called over her shoulder. `` They're drained weighting around your cervix. Let them go. ``

'' Elanya is still there too. '' Luna argued.

Elise fully turned to them and smiled. `` So what ? '' She asked again. `` Unlike you, I trust that my ally are more than capable of taking care of themselves… and unlike you, I could care less whether they live or die. ``

'' I think this is far enough. '' Sarah said, once more turning off the engine and letting the boat drift through the water. They had apparently gone far enough to assure the dragons that they had no intention of returning to their nest. The wildcat had finally given up the pursuit and headed back home. `` I didn't think it would look at all of this to get you to the island. '' She grinned.

'' You wanted us to arrive here ? '' Harry asked doubtfully.

'' Of course of study. '' Elise laughed. `` We knew you'd want to come in after Fred and so he proved his first use to us… there's still more for him to do though. ``

'' We just never thought it would withdraw you this long to see things out… Tristan must feature kept you all pretty preoccupied. '' Sarah taunted. `` Seems he's disappeared from the castle though. Can't wait to see where he turns up next. ``

Harry, Luna and Jacey stole glances at each other… it seemed that Elise and Sarah didn't know anything about them having already killed Tristan. Yet again he wished he still had the business leader to go into their intellect to see if it was reliable. `` I thought he was supposed to making you both immortal in Voldemort's name. '' He said, not wanting to give himself away while at the same time hoping to get a few more answers than Simon had been able to provide.

'' We haven't yet decided whether we'll go through with that. '' Elise shared a smile with Sarah as if they were sharing some private jocularity. `` We're still weighing the professional and con of immortality… but it's significant to always look agreeable to Almighty Voldemort. '' She laughed.

'' But we're getting off topic. '' Sarah reminded her. `` I do believe they were about to ask why we wanted them here. ``

'' It's simple, we wanted to show just how capable we are in getting what we want and how strategic it would be for you three to join us. '' Elise explained to them. We figured someplace far from the influence of Dumbledore and your other ally would give us the luck to really relieve oneself ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big gestures are the only if way to give people listen ... '' Luna quietly repeated what Paul Simon had said to them when explaining his own actions.

Elise stared at her in surprise. `` I'm glad you see my full point. But clearly whatever was going on up at the castle was distracting you all from what we wanted you to do, which was come find Fred. It was taking so long that we figured sending in Dolos to rough up Ginny Weasley would get you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having difficulty getting Fred to cooperate so we figured it would be a win-win office. Of grade the dolt man is terrified of both Draco Malfoy and your friend Lupin for what they are, though he's too lofty to admit it. When Draco refused admission to Ginny, making it clear that the just way Dolos was reaching her was through a combat with him, our less than courageous spy gave up. But then, to our delight we received word that you all had come to the island today anyway and we knew it was the perfective tense chance so Elanya ordered Dolos to kill Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in difficulty and so we apparated to my waiting ship and hopped in the speedboat to come to your rescue. ``

'' So what happened back at Hogwarts ? '' Harry asked nevously, this time turning to deal Jacey who he'd left in charge of looking after Ron.

'' He is alright. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… cobbler's last I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely pleased to suffer him in detainment. ``

'' It doesn't issue in the least. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you think I left the idiot behind to whatever fate befell him ? Even if he decided to turn on me, he knows nothing of any consequence… I've seen to that personally. And with only two weeks left for you all to be at Hogwarts, the man was entirely expendable. '' She stopped to smile at the faces they were all making. `` Oh don't look at me like that. He and I had a mickle, I provided my office and he provided his. Just because he got caught doesn't mean I had any obligation to help… he made his choice to become affect in this and now he knows he was dealing in matter far above his oral sex. ``

'' A poor lesson to see the hard way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her head in mock grief before smiling brightly. `` In any case, we got exactly what we wanted even if we had to sacrifice Dolos. Now we know Jacey. ``

'' It's okay, Dolos was very good at his job when he wanted to be. '' Elise cooed, reaching out to solace Jacey who shoved her away. She went on as if Jacey wasn't staring daggers of hate at her. `` He saw you and Ron at the Costume Ball, and putting two and two together, he figured you were the same mystical person Dumbledore had been keeping in his office… the one Harry and all his champion made special trips up there to visit. We knew putting Ron's aliveness in danger would bring you running, especially if Harry and Luna were busy elsewhere. ``

'' But Erebos really intended to wipe out Ron ! '' Jacey protested.

'' So ? '' Sarah shrugged. `` Who is he in all of this ? He has no power or claim to greatness. ``

'' Regardless your opinion of our friends, '' Harry stepped in to stop Jacey from punching Sarah in the aspect as it was gain she very much longed to do, `` you've done all of this for no reason. We obviously want zip to do with you. '' He looked at Luna, hoping their connection to each former was substantial enough for her to infer what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and get hold of a small footmark sideways toward the broom Sarah had abandoned when she'd gotten on the gravy boat. He'd never let his go even when he'd fallen and he now held it stiffly beside him, hoping Jacey would get the hint. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their thought transference to intercommunicate with each other… just a total savvy of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the rear of his shirt to indicate that she was set up. It had taken a matter of seconds but they were ready and so he quickly swung his broom so they could hop on as Luna lunged for the early one and together they zoomed up into the sky, surely to move fast enough to outrun Elise's firing range.

'' Let's go find Fred and Hermione and go home ! '' Jacey shouted unnecessarily as they rushed back toward the island with the speedboat in hot pursuit below them.

( fault )

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione asked, trying to hide the fact that she was scared.

'' If I knew that I would already have it, wouldn't I ? '' Elanya sneered. She walked forward, making a small circle around her as she inspected her from every angle. `` So, you're the grounds Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to support directly in front of her, her golden eyes glaring with a lethal fire. `` I just don't get it. There must be something here that I'm just not seeing. '' She said with intentional meanness.

Hermione kept quietly, though there were about a million things that she would have liked to say in return. But without her wand, the last thing she wanted was to give the little girl another reason to bid her dead.

'' zilch to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's okeh, I have my own way of finding things out. '' She tightly clutched her scepter before reaching out to snap up Hermione's hired man, the same one Fred had held earlier.

Hermione watched in horror as the girl's eyes rolled up into her head and she fell forward. Elanya still had her bridge player in a death grip and dragged her pile to her stifle as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some variety of vision of the yesteryear. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself free. For a brief moment she considered going into the scrub to calculate for her verge but remembering her survive showdown with strange foliage, she decided it would be best to aim Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the little girl's fingerbreadth apart.

'' Not so fast ! '' Elanya screamed, coming out of her spell or whatever she was doing, tackling Hermione to the ground and shoving her verge against her throat. throttling and coughing, she pushed against the scepter as she struggled to breath but Elanya had locked her subdivision and was unrelenting. She leaned in finish to Hermione with an evil grin. `` I saw all the memories you shared together. It was very cherubic but not at all what he needs… I'm sorry but it has to end this way. ``

Reaching mystifying inside herself, Hermione gathered every bit of strength she had and getting her legs under the other girl, she kicked out and managed at close to get her off. Grabbing at her pharynx in relief as air once more made it's way to her lungs, she struggled to her feet, not wanting to be caught unaware. Elanya was already standing and pointing her wand. `` You're right, what fun is it to just end your lifespan like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the phantasy of escape isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a pass start. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to return all of her attention to the psychotic girl, she had no idea whether Fred had fallen again and broken his neck, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most in all probability that Elanya would catch her anyway.

'' Well, that's your perquisite. '' She smiled with demented joy and got ready to retch. `` I wish I could say it's been skillful knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her eyes and waited for shock. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another spell straight at Elanya that sent her flying several grand back through the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree until she hit one hard enough to knock her out. She turned to find him sprawled on the ground, sweating and panting from the effort of pulling himself unblock with a leg that even from here looked extremely swollen. `` Accio wand. '' He called tiredly in the instruction Hermione's wand had flown earlier. It shot into his paw, which he held out to her as she rushed over.

'' Are you okay ? '' She asked, taking the sceptre and kneeling next to him.

'' I'm really not sure. '' He answered, groaning in pain as she helped him sit up. His hands were bleeding from the rocks, but other than that and his leg, nada else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his assertion that nothing was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be able to walk. `` That should facilitate. And we'll find an old limb or something for you to use as a cane to facilitate put your exercising weight on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his oculus as he presumably thought of the anguish of being forced to impress at all, let alone to walk.

'' We have to detect Harry and Luna. They're the solely ones who can get us out of here. '' She pressed.

He nodded weakly. `` I know. Go find a branch and let's do this. '' He said, trying to rally himself.

They both kept an eye on the spot Elanya had landed as she ventured into the Tree to look for a slice of wood long and uncompromising enough for their purpose. At last she found one and rushed back over to assist Fred climb to his base. Throwing his other arm around her shoulders, he was eventually able to find a way to use both her and the make-shift walking joystick to his best advantage as he hobbled along. `` Should we call out for them since they can't seem to hear us in their head ? '' She asked looking up at the sky and finding it empty.

'' I don't know… either it'll bring them to us, it'll bring someone else to us or it'll be useless because they were eaten by the flying dragon that now seem to accept calmly returned to their cuddle. '' He answered gloomily.

'' Well, that's the form of mental attitude that'll get us through this. '' She said sarcastically.

'' Sorry. '' He muttered. `` I think our best bet is to go down to the beach. If they're still out there somewhere, that's the best place for them to see us. Calling out would only state Elanya exactly where we are. ``

'' Okay then. '' She smiled.

He wrapped his arm more tightly around her shoulders and sighed. `` I'm sword lily you came to rescue me… I'm not used to playing the damsel. '' He grinned.

'' Yeah well, it's no picnic being the white knight either. '' She laughed. `` It's far too much pressure. ``

They walked on in comfortable silence, as happy as they could be given their situation. To his course credit, Fred didn't request that they stop to rest until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the open. Moving over to a radical of diminished boulder, she helped him sit while keeping the rock-and-roll and pee at their spinal column and their eyes capable to see the tree crinkle and anyone who may cheat on out of it. `` Did you hear that ? '' He asked after a short while, shading his eyes as he searched the afternoon sky.

A whooshing strait came from above them and they saw Luna and Harry shoot through the air over the island. `` Is there someone on Harry's broom ? '' She asked, trying to figure out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the time to yell and get their attention. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to avail advertize himself to his feet. She leapt up to help and together they walked further away from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree into the sand. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their work force until at last Harry caught raft of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her substructure, Hermione looked down and gave a belittled shriek as various large sea pediculosis pubis scuttled across the sand towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the trees, pointing her scepter at Fred and sending the tiny animate being she'd conjured after him.

Hermione tried to help fend them off but suddenly found herself dragged backwards by an invisible force only to end up at Elanya's invertebrate foot. `` That should keep him busy enough for us to finish what we started. '' She leered down at her.

( BREAK )

These stupid crabby person just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob mental capacity as they swarmed over each other to reach Fred. He tried to hitch after Hermione and Elanya who had taken to dueling each other further up the beach but between his already injured leg and the sharp pincer continually piercing the skin of the good one, it was all he could do to keep from falling over. Using his scepter and the stick he'd been carrying as a crutch to fend the little pests off, he slowly persisted forward while looking to the sky to see why Harry and Luna hadn't landed to aid them yet. He saw that they'd become involved in their own engagement out over the ocean as a boat raced toward the beach. Once of the people aboard was shooting fireballs and stripe of flame into the air while the person riding with Harry returned the fiery flak. Luna was swooping in, waving her scepter and stirring up some moving ridge in an endeavor to hold open the boat from reaching the island… but it was clear the mortal driving cared zero about the gravy boat, damaging it beyond repair as it was battered by Luna's spells. He was so busy watching them that he wasn't quite watching where he was going anymore… pain shot through his foot as he felt himself step on one of the crabs. Using the walking stick, he tried to regain his balance but his foot sank into the Sand and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his arms to break his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his vertebral column, he dropped the stick and wildly waved his sceptre but to no help. The animate being were all over him in an twinkling, looking a good deal with child and more tempestuous now that he was eye-level with them. There were so many, he felt as if he were being crushed under their weight as they piled on top of each other, all trying to pinch and pierce his pelt. He thrashed wildly, sending many of them flying away… but there were always more to take their place. panic settled over him as he realized that he was unable to get up and the pubic louse were taking the opportunity to bury him.

( breakout )

Luna gripped the Scots heather tightly, terrified that she was going to diminish off as the minor of visions suddenly washed over her to pay a warning of what was coming. It was legal brief enough that she didn't completely lose consciousness but detail enough to save her life. Quickly dodging to the left away from Harry and Jacey, she turned to see a human dynamo explode where she'd been only a second ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him squiffy before turning to return the flame Elise was sending.

'' I'm fine ! '' She yelled back as she swerved another fireball. The gravy holder had snuck up on them and Luna was amazed to discover that her vision had served not only to monish her of the fire, but that for some intellect those lady friend had decided they no longer cared if she lived or died. She wasn't sure what had changed, but from the way Elise continued to befuddle fervency at her alone assured Luna that at some point in time, her animation became less valuable to them than Harry and Jacey's… And so they were attacking her to trouble them all from the fact that they were approaching the island where Hermione and Fred were clearly having trouble.

decision making to do what she could to keep them from once more reaching the beach and deport out whatever they had planned next, Luna swooped in low and used her wand to conjure up some violent waves that tossed the piddling boat around. She grinned in satisfaction to see Elise nearly fall overboard… unfortunately it wasn't enough to dissuade Sarah who drove on despite the end being caused to her gravy holder. She waved her wand again, strengthening the charm and creating large and more brutal waves… and then she saw the larger ship on the horizon, quickly heading in their direction. Distracted, she hovered in the air for a moment as she tried to reckon out who could be aboard.

'' Luna see out ! '' Jacey yelled at the same time her intuition screamed in her nous to turn. She was lupus erythematosus than a second too late and the very back of her ling was caught in the fiery stream.

touch herself begin to plummet, she shot toward the beach. As soon as there was upstanding ground below her, she rolled off the Scots heather only to obtain herself surrounded by tons of crabs. She quickly got to her feet but the creatures didn't seem to have any interest group in her and following their progress with her oculus she was able to see Fred further away, thrashing about as all of the crabs went about attacking him. Realizing what go had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was nothing that was going to forebode them off. Ignoring the ace that pinched her as she reached down to avail him get up, she saw that one of his leg was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her berm, she got a better hold and together they were able-bodied to lift him off the primer coat and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to see his breathing place as they both used their wands to observe the crabs at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his eyes wide with business concern. `` Now draw a blank about me and go assistance Hermione… I can't relocation quickly enough. ``

She looked over to see the girl dueling heavily with Elanya. They both looked tired but early than a few excoriation and bruises they hadn't seemed to wee any headway against each other… The landscape around them was a different story as shatter and uprooted trees littered the beach. Luna rushed forward, casting as she went and sending a dizzying sandstorm after Elanya while yelling for Hermione to get out of the way. But before her spell could reach it's butt, it was suddenly pushed harmlessly out to sea.

turn, she saw that Sarah had run the speedboat ashore and taken control of Luna's duster before it could harm her friend. Harry and Jacey grounded as Elise jumped down from the gravy holder to link Sarah on the sand. They all five stared at each early, tensely waiting to see who would do what first. On one side of their group, Hermione and Elanya had resumed their duel as they now each were trying to sustain the other from going to attend to their friends… on the other English, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to keep back himself from falling over again.

The blaring strait of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the tartar took to it. several loudly scream erupted from the snuggle but apparently they had sensed there was no lead threat to them and remained safely where they were. `` It seems our ride out of here has arrived. '' Sarah grinned. `` Who's coming with us ? ``

( BREAK )

Harry tried to follow Luna right away as he saw her broom catch fire, forcing her to realm, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flames as Jacey tried to revenge from the back of the broom. `` They are about to draw ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

'' Keep our path clear ! '' He instructed, tightening his grip and heading straight for the beach as she ensured Elise wasn't able to hit them. He landed as lightly as he could so that Jacey could get her ft under her before speed over to Luna who had been trying to help Hermione until Sarah stepped in.

He tried to think, to figure out what to do next… it was impossible to plan without knowing what everyone was thinking and as he, Luna and Jacey stared down Elise and Sarah, Harry found himself wondering how he'd ever managed before fully awakening that division of himself. A loud cornet startled him from his thoughts and he looked out over the water to see a large ship anchored and three rowboats entire of people making their way to the beach. `` It seems our drive has arrived. Who's coming with us ? '' Sarah asked, looking around at them all with a mad grin.

Jacey and Luna looked at each other and then to him, it was clean-cut they were as upset as he was that they were ineffectual to plan. `` Can we talk about this among ourselves ? '' He boldly asked… after all, as far as Elise and Sarah knew, they were all bound to the island by the anti-apparation charms and thought they could provide the sole way out.

Elise eyes him warily. `` I'd be quick about making a decision. '' She reluctantly agreed, gesturing over her shoulder. `` Whether they like it or not, everyone aboard that ship is under our control… not to remark your two supporter seem to be struggling quite a bit. ``

Carefully grabbing Luna's uninjured arm he pulled her and Jacey further away and lowered his voice so only they could find out him. `` O.K., Luna when I give the signaling, run and seize Fred and get yourselves back to Hogwarts. Jacey and I will go get Hermione and follow right behind you. '' She instantly opened her mouth to dissent but he shook his head teacher and went on. `` If we haven't come back in ten minutes, then go get Lupin and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you feel better… Just impart them back here to help. ``

She stared at him for a moment, clearly unsure that this was the advantageously plan. But it was the merely one they had and she must have realized it. `` amercement, ten minutes and not a second more. '' She finally agreed.

'' Okay then. '' Harry took her hand and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to preserve Sarah and Elanya back as better you can while I go assist out Hermione… as soon as we're able-bodied, apparate to the shriek shack okay ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her men together as she prepared to unleash more of her mightiness than she'd been able to in a more populated place.

'' Well ? '' Elise impatiently called from behind them. `` What's it going to be ? semen with us voluntarily or wait until our little minions row ashore to pull you to onboard with us against your will ? ``

'' Seeing as how there's still lots about us that you don't know, we're going with option C. '' Harry answered. He felt Luna tense next to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering paries of firing, sending it to encircle Elise and Sarah. The fire raged, flickering over seven feet high and with more intensity level than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will remove her a minute to make out with. '' Jacey grinned.

Harry watched Luna upsurge over to Fred and waited until she had grabbed his arm and apparated them both away before turning to help Hermione. `` Just stay fresh them busy. '' He instructed before walking over to facilitate guide care of Elanya and get off this island and back to Luna.

'' Harry ! '' He heard Jacey yell out a warning and turned to see various heavy boulders flying at him. He ducked to the ground and threw a shield around himself but it became quickly clear that Sarah hadn't been trying to kill him as the rock'n'roll settled and entombed him.

'' Cave Inimicum ! '' He heard Elise yell, strengthening the rock-and-roll and ensuring he was effectively trapped.



musical note : More to issue forth soon !